North June 2019

COUNTRY

North Edition - June 2019

Pollyanna Pickering ‘The Spirit of the Jaguar’

STOWE

GARDENS

By Brian Spencer

Green Hall BELPER

A RELAXING EVENING AT THE

Marquis of Ormonde

Wade Whimsies The

Wild Blue Yonder

Make an Entrance Hints of Summer

Belper

A Lively Market Town

IMAGES WALK: Through Elton’s Gritstone Countryside

Steve Orme interviews

Bill Bailey www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk • Your Complimentary Lifestyle Magazine • Established 1994

Solid Hardwood Floors Parquet Woodblock Mosaic Engineered Floors Laminate & Veneer AmticoDesign Floors

Kitchens & Interiors

‘Quality Bespoke Custom Made Furniture, Bedrooms and Home Studies Designed to Your Requirements’

t 10 The Firs oked s Bo Kitchen Further a e iv Rece count is D % 5

Visit our showroom or view online www.hardwoodfloors.uk.com

Three easy steps to enjoy over £20,000 worth of beautiful, handcrafted custom-made solid wood kitchens of the highest quality for less than £3,950, direct from us to you…

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

The Hardwood Flooring Centre

Unit 2 Prospect Court Nunn Close, Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire NG17 2HW

t. 01623 555337

FREE FREE FREE

PHONE 0800 7317351 No Obligation Quotation/ Design/ Home Visit From Expensive Retailers, Middlemen and Overheads

www.allwood-kitchens.co.uk Kitchens | Bedrooms | Home Study | Custom Made Furniture

Save money on your energy bills with A-rated windows – from Bowfield Attractive, high security, energy efficient window system helps keep your home warm and comfortable all year round – which will save you £££s in the long-run!

Established for 20 years, we operate with long serving, mature employees, capable of consistently producing quality domestic windows, doors, porches and conservatories along with large scale commercial installations.

Unit 1, Yew Tree Farm, Deep Lane, Hardstoft, Derbyshire S45 8AE

For more information, or to request a quote, call:

01246 855 960 2 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Members of FENSA and have a 10 year insurance backed guarantee on all installations

f: 01246 856 248 e: bowfield@googlemail.com www.bowfieldwindows.com

FIREPLACES

VE NEW GAS STO AY NOW ON DISPL

Over 100 contemporary and traditional fireplaces, stoves, gas and electric fires, many on live display in our showroom.

www.peakfireplaces.com Tel: 01246 865062 10-12 Broadleys, Clay Cross, Chesterfield, S45 9JL Open: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4pm

Free Car Park

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 3

Welcome to our

June edition

B

utterflies, hallways, driveways and pathways all make an appearance in this months Country Images along with our regular celebrity article by Steve on top comedian Bill Bailey who is appearing in Derby in June.

Max uncovers the fine history of Belper Hall. Brian explores Stowe gardens For 25 years we have always believed that Country Images should be a ‘good read’ which is why we feature quality editorial from top contributors thereby setting us apart from ‘directory style’ publications.

No.1

Your

e

Golf Magazin

WIN

WALK

A YE

OF TIT ARS SU LEIST PPLY GOLF BALLS * GOLF WITH SU EQUIP M E N T PP OR T SUPE RST

In This Issue RUDDINGTON ORE

Cover Photo: Ruddington Grange 6th Green

THE LATEST EQUIPMENT

110 YEARS AT RADCLIFFE

TEWKESBURY PARK

JAMES WHATLEY

NEW OWNERS AT STANEDGE

PLUS… loads of offers from local courses!!!

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

Country

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

Each month we produce over 30,000 copies of Country Images Magazine, which are delivered into homes and 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 4 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

£2.99

AVAILABLE IN DERBYSHIRE - NOTTINGHAMSHIRE - NORTH LEICESTERSHIRE AND EAST STAFFORDSHIRE

Issue 5

Spring 2019

Walk Derbyshire 5 is proving to be a popular choice for walkers and can be purchased at -www. walkderbyshire.co.uk and also through our web site www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

County

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire’s No.1 Golf Magazine

The Spring edition of County Golfer has now been distributed to all the golf clubs in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and is also available to read on-line.

This edition features Fame Tate the new owner of Stanedge Golf Club.

5

Golfer

SPRING 2019

County Golfer Magazine

Demand for Country Images gets stronger around the County ; the tourist information in Buxton, Bakewell and Burton (not in our letterbox distribution area) have increased levels of magazines to cater for those wishing to pick it up. Our web site hits are now at a record level with the digital editions being very popular.

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

IAN FOSTER PLUMBING, HEATING

& BUILDING SERVICES Transform your conservatory into an all year-round room

Replace your old glass or polycarbonate roof with a super insulated tiled roof.

Add velux windows Replace doors and windows with ‘A rated’ units or simply re-glaze existing frames with ‘A rated’ glazing.

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Boilers Log Burners, Ufheating, uPVC Doors & Windows

01773 829603 • 07966 403265

www.ianfosterplumbing.co.uk • ianfoster3@me.com

T: 01773 607118 M: 07718 589439 www.cjfullwood.co.uk | craigfullwood@mac.com

facebook.com/Ian-Foster-Plumbing-Heating-Building-Services

Kitchens

ARCHWAY

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

INTERIORS ESTABLISHED IN 1982

Archway Interiors are a Derbyshire based company, who operate in the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire region.

Established in 1982, we have more than 37 years’ experience in supplying and installing kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms. In that time we have built up our reputation for providing high quality products and services, and are committed to full customer service satisfaction.

sales@archwayinteriorsltd.co.uk • Tel: 01773 608365 • www.archwayinteriorsltd.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 5

WE’RE CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF PARKER KNOLL STYLE COLLECTION 150 IS EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE HERE AT FRANK KNIGHTON

In 1869 Frederick Parker started the business that was to become Parker Knoll.

Drawing on its recently restored Frederick Parker archive, Collection 150 has been designed to celebrate this rich heritage as well as the founder’s commitment to develop sofas and chairs that are a product of skilled design, high quality, elegant proportions and supreme comfort.

The collection takes specific influence from the 1920s and 30s, a defining period for Parker Knoll, as post war Britain formed.

This latest collection is a celebration of this style defining period, combining the Art Deco influences from the 1920s with a contemporary aesthetic to create a collection of finely designed sofas and chairs that offer refined style and an abundance of comfort.

Comprised of two sofa collections, Hoxton and Wycombe, alongside their complementary chairs, Shoreditch and Fitzroy, the range is a celebration of beautiful shape and intricate detail. Not to mention a brand new fabric collection, beautifully accented by designs that have been influenced by artists, fashion, society and architectural elements from the Art Deco period.

www.frankknighton.co.uk

6 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Ilkeston

FACTO RY OUTLE T

Wood Street, DE7 8GE. Tel: 0115 9329 590

Nottingham

Castle Boulevard, NG7 1FJ. Tel: 0115 9475 362

Derby

THE BEST DEALS AROUND ON PARKER KNOLL – AND MUCH MORE!

EXTRA 10% OFF CLEARANCE ITEMS - see website for details

Ascot Drive, DE24 8GW. Tel: 01332 758 758

FREE PARKING OPEN SEVEN DAYS

0% interest-free credit and part exchange also available on request www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 7

Give your hallway a little love and attention. It’s the first room you notice in your home and can easily be overlooked. Don’t be afraid to add a statement console or statement wall.

Bootroom Bench by Neptune Edinburgh’s a traditional oak bench that not only offers a place to sit, but also storage space for wellies and baskets underneath.

For local stockists visit www.neptune.com

8 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Flooring by

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

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

“We’re not satisfied until you are”

DERBYSHIRE HARDWOOD FLOORING

W

e are specialists in hardwood flooring restoration and expertly fit or even just supply all types of wood flooring.

Call us for a no obligation home consultation.

www.derbyshirewoodflooring.co.uk Tel: 01298 816698 Mobile: 07711 112046 Email: info@derbyshirehardwoodflooring.co.uk.

COUNTRY TILES

Our world is at your feet!

ALL OLD CARPET IS CAREFULLY UPLIFTED, FURNITURE METICULOUSLY MOVED AND RETURNED, AND NEW CARPET FITTED BY PROFESSIONALLY-TRAINED, EMPLOYED FITTERS

SPECIALISTS IN WALL & FLOOR TILES

Visit our 4 large showrooms or ring for a free home selection service Centre

Summer

Step Featured Tile ‘Salisbury’

into

The Barn, Ridgeway House, Ridgeway Lane, Nether Heage, Derbyshire DE56 2JT

T: (01773) 857 184 Email: info@countrytiles.co.uk

www.countrytiles.co.uk

30

YEARS

43-47 High Street, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9DX TELEPHONE: 01246 863148 FREE CUSTOMER CAR PARK www.nutt.co.uk

of excellence in tile retailing

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 9

(Right)

Keswick by Neptune Slim, subtle and a lightweight look. The Keswick collection is a more understated take on art deco.

For local stockists visit www.neptune.com (Below)

Avebury by Cormar Carpets Stunning carpet range by Cormar.

For local stockists visit www. cormarcarpets.co.uk (Below right)

Farrow & Ball Together, Green Smoke and Wimborne White bring balance to this welcoming entrance hall. The addition of a dark colour above white panelling adds intrigue and definition to the space without compromising on light.

For local stockists visit www.www. farrow-ball.com or call 1202 876141

Herston Console Table

by Neptune

Richard Hallas

CARPET UPH0LSTERY & LEATHER CLEANING SERVICES

Richardhallas1@hotmail.com 07717 514390 / 01773 857775

Home – Domestic Cleaning – Commercial Cleaning – Specialist Cleaning Have you got a stain that you just can’t get out?

Paradise Carpets Family run business with over 30 years experience in flooring.

Have a look around our shop on google maps or pop in and see us soon!

Does your office carpet need a clean?

With over 10 years’ experience within the cleaning industry, we have battled every tough stain possible.

For a free quote on any of our services, large or small, call us and we will be happy to help.

Glass Balustrade & Staircase Specialists

Visit us for all your flooring needs

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

Suppliers of

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

Tel: 01629 820030 www.elysion.uk.com service@elysion.uk.com Elysion Ltd, Willowbath Mill, Water Lane, Wirksworth, Derbys DE4 4AA

luxury vinyl flooring

1, The Walkway, Grosvenor Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3JF 01773 746318

STOCK CLEARANCE SALE Massive savings throughout the store.

Hallam, Whittle & Co Ltd 16-22 High Street, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3HH

Tel/Fax: 01773 742369 Lighting Tel: 01773 742288 FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1952 AMPLE FREE PARKING

complete home furnishers | beds | upholstery | dining | carpets | lighting & accessories www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 11

Polka by LSA Polka collection by LSA International.

For local stockists visit www.lsa-international.com Bodum BODUM has started a new design line using cork.

It is one of Nature’s most beautiful and functional materials. Cork is produced from the bark of the Cork Oak growing in the Mediterranean area, especially in Portugal, that delivers about half of all the cork used worldwide.

For local stockists visit www.bodum.com

Chilly Bottles by Emma Bridgewater Emma Bridgewater has collaborated with Chilly’s to create a new collection of 3 bottles in signature Emma Bridgewater patterns – Anemone, Pink Hearts & Polka Dot. For local stockists visit www. emmabridgewater.co.uk Mambo by Prestigious Textiles Bold and flamboyant, the Mambo collection of fabrics epitomises the current 70s revival, with its distinctive designs and colourways re-told for the contemporary home.

For local stockists visit www.prestigious.co.uk

Ben Cooper

ALAN DOXEY Fireplace Specialist

Massive choice of fabrics, leathers & vinyls Recovers, Caravans Pubs, Chairs/Sofas Headboards, Mirrors Leather Repairs

Suppliers and fitters of gas and electric fires and gas stoves. Wide new range of marble and wooden mantles. Suppliers of all leading manufacturers.

Experts in bespoke recovers delivering exceptional quality and customer service, whilst upholding traditional techniques that deliver the ‘Wow’ factor.

17

M: 07795 107904

YEARS

Professional Upholstery Services

EXPERIENC

E

Special Offers

on selected fireplaces,electric & gas fires

Paul Fiddes Fires & Fireplaces, Stoves & Chimney Sweeping Belper Based covering the Derbyshire Area Installation of most types of fires, stoves and fireplaces.

Fitting of cookers, gas runs, flueliners gas or solid flue, twinwall flue systems, chimney pots, and most types of domestic chimney sweeping.

DELAMERE PLUS 70% net efficiency. 4.4kw output. 5 yr guarantee

Tel: 07912 749 910 Email: paul@paulfiddes.co.uk | Web: www.paulfiddes.co.uk

MILES FURNITURE LTD Established over 90 years

Modern Styling...

ON SELECTED SENIOR CITIZENS ITEMS DISCOUNT WEDNESDAY

40 Hassock Lane North, Shipley, Nr Heanor DE75 7JB (A6007 Ilkeston-Heanor Road). Opposite Shipley Garden Centre.

Classic Elegance 160 Somercotes Hill Somercotes DE55 4HU

Tel: 01773 602255 Open Monday to Friday 9.30 - 5.30, Saturday 9.30 - 5.00

Telephone 01773 717066 www.alandoxeyfireplacesltd.co.uk Opening hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am - 4pm Other times by arrangement.

FITTING & DELIVERY SERVICE. Est 28 years Senior Citizens’ discount Wednesday on selected items. www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 13

The search

endshere...

Superb new homes in Shirland Alfreton & Aldercar!

Stylish properties in desirable locations with excellent commuter and transport links Mansfield

The Fox Hollies, Shirland

Outseats Farm, Alfreton

Chapel Gate, Aldercar

Fabulous locations, close to amenities.

Nottingham

Exclusive to brand new homes!

Just a 5% deposit and 75% mortgage to get you moving!

Just a

5% deposit

All types of buyers benefit from the Government-backed Help to Buy Equity Scheme, whether you are an existing homeowner or first time buyer.

When combining just a 5% deposit with the Government’s equity loan, you can access the competitive lending rates of a 75% mortgage.

Here’s how it works: Example:

£10,498 £41,990

Derby

5% Buyer’s deposit

20% Government loan

£157,462 Viewing now - Show Homes open daily 11am - 5pm

Chapel Gate Cromford Road, Aldercar NG16 4HB - 01773 432 388

Outseats Farm Mansfield Road, Alfreton DE55 7JQ - 01773 432 042

The Fox Hollies Main Road, Shirland, DE55 6BB - 01332 388 388

Example house value

£209,950

75% Mortgage from approved lender

The Help to Buy Equity Scheme has specific terms and conditions and is subject to a qualifying criteria as prescribed by the regulating authority.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other purchase assistance schemes.

Specification, features and details are correct at the time of going to press.

Photographs are of current Wheeldon schemes but may differ from those currently available.

For enquiries please visit us at

www.wheeldon.co.uk

01332 388 388

Green Hall BELPER

Green Hall, west front c. 1904 from a postcard. [James Darwin]

T

he story of the Strutt family and that of modern Belper,

which they more or less created, are intertwined.

They built the mills and the workers’ housing (to a very high standard for the period) and over several generations endowed the town with numerous benisons, leaving the built environment the better for it; today it is a settlement with, for its size, an extraordinary number of listed buildings. Some, however, failed to survive to be listed, or at least to beneďŹ t from the 1968 planning act. This obliged listed buildings to be put through a series of evaluations, resulting in consent or otherwise to demolish or alter them. Prior to 1st January 1969 one had merely to notify the local authority and the Royal Commission on Historic Monuments (so they could record the building) before doing anything drastic.

George Herbert Strutt DL JP who funded the hospital. [MC]

The

Lost Houses of Derbyshire

by Maxwell Craven

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 15

One Belper building to fall to the wrecking ball was Green Hall, situated at the top of King Street on the north side. It was one of a group of three local country houses built in the period 17901810 for various members of the Strutt family: Milford House, Makeney House and Bridge Hill House being the others, of which the latter appeared in these pages in November 2012.

Three of these houses were designed

by Jedediah Strutt’s eldest son, William Strutt, FRS, an amateur architect who worked in a Neo-Classical style and

who was usually sensible enough to employ what we would today call an executant architect, for instance Samuel Brown when he designed the Derbyshire General Infirmary at Derby, 1806-1810.

on 12th April, Susannah, daughter of Rotherham steel maker Joshua Walker.

Green Hall was to be their home until such time as Jedediah’s father died and they could move to Bridge Hill.

The latter year is that in which the sources agree the house was built at Green Hall. The idea was to provide a house for Jedediah Strutt the younger, second son of George Benson Strutt, younger son of the first Jedediah, and founder of the Belper branch of the family. G. B. Strutt lived at Bridge Hill House, and in 1810, his son married

The house was nothing like as grand as Bridge Hill, and once extended lacked the latter’s symmetry and elegance, although the hand of uncle William can still be discerned in it. Yet it is a bit of a hotch-potch when viewed from the small garden on its west, nor was the short, south (entrance front) particularly architectonic either. The North side was

Left: King Street shops with the hall’s garden over sailing them, taken from the bridge c. 1860.

[Rod Jewell] Below: View up King Street showing the garden bridge, c. 1860.

[Private collection]

16 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

blank and the east side was aggressively plain and stood flush to the west edge of Green Lane.

The west front had five bays and although the entire house was of two storeys, the range to the North was higher, under a hipped roof and dwarf parapet; This contained the high-ceilinged dining room. To the right was a conservatory fronted room beyond which was the only symmetrical portion, three bays with a central pediment under which were superimposed tripartite windows, where were the drawing room with master bedroom above. This part had a slightly higher hipped slate roof, and was the original William Strutt-designed house.

On the east side the extension created a recessed court yard which acquired a glazed roof.

From the asymmetrical extensions it becomes clear that as Jedediah and Susannah’s family increased, so the house was extended accordingly, hence the taller block at the NW angle and the linking range. The need to entertain may have increased too, after the death of Jedediah’s elder brother George in 1821, unmarried.

Jedediah was henceforth the heir and thereafter the manager of the mills.

The house was filled with gadgetry of the type pioneered by John Whitehurst and Erasmus Darwin (the latter a mentor of William Strutt) designed to improve what was then called the domestic economy and included improved kitchen ranges with back boilers to heat water for bathing, flushing lavatories and clever ventilation systems, all of which William Strutt had tried out in St. Helen’s House, Derby.

When George Benson Strutt died aged eighty in 1841, Jedediah and his second wife moved into Bridge Hill House,

designed memorial garden.

Meanwhile the preparatory school deserves comment. It was established by Arabella, widow of Thomas Taylor, a prosperous farmer at Cuckney in Nottinghamshire, and she was assisted by her daughters Sophia Elizabeth and Augusta Amy, and in 1871 they had 29 pupils, some from minor gentry families and a smattering of sons of Derby industrialists. Within a few years, however, Augusta went off to get married and Sophia ran it with four staff after her mother’s death in the 1880s. Not every census was taken when the boarders were in session so it is hard to gauge the school’s success, but in 1901 there were only 13 boarders, although there were undoubtedly daypupils, too.

Miss Taylor died in April 1914, leaving

Images

Bathrooms, Kitchens & Bedrooms NEW SHOWROOM DISPLAYS

“Awash with ideas” Bathroom Images of Leabrooks.

44a Charles Street, Leabrooks, Derbyshire DE55 1LZ To Somercotes Main Road B6016 LEABROOKS

To Swanwick

Greenhill Lane B6016

There was only a low stone wall in front of the main range and a patch of lawn with a near-circular path, the remainder of the pleasure grounds lay on the other side of King Street, which in 1830 was cut through the grounds between stone retaining walls. Part of the grounds to the west of the house even oversailed shops built into the retaining walls. To ensure continued access to all the pleasure grounds therefore, an iron bridge with a depressed Tudor arch was built, to connect to the land on its south side, called The Paddock. This was cast, at a cost of £42.10s.9d, at a local foundry, the bill being paid on completion in August 1832. All this was probably done at the behest of Jedediah who, as manager of the Strutt mills in the town, was a keen improver, like his father. The Paddock itself was the scene of public celebrations marking the passage of the Reform Act in the autumn of 1832, when the new bridge no doubt proved handy.

leaving his own son, able to move into it when he came of age in 1847. In his turn he succeeded to Bridge Hill House on Jedediah’s death in 1854. It then became home to John Strutt, the youngest brother, who died unmarried in 1858. It remained, largely unoccupied until 1867, by which time it had become clear that no member of the family was likely to want it as a residence, a probable exacerbated by the construction of the railway station immediately to the west in 1840. Nor was any likely candidate found to take a lease on the place and in the end, it was let to a boys’ preparatory school and the garden bridge was removed in late autumn 1867.

The Paddock itself was given to the Belper UDC in 1921 and the town’s war memorial, a tall plain tapering obelisk in Cornish granite, was erected there within a specially

et

tre

sS

arle

Ch

Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm, Saturday 9.30am to 1pm.

E: bathroomimages@btconnect.com T: 01773 608531 www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 17

no successor as head, and the proprietorship devolved onto her sister Augusta, Mrs. Hugh MacDiarmid, who kept it going until the end of the academic year before closing the establishment and surrendering the lease back to the Strutt estate.

This was opportune, for within six weeks the great War had broken out and the Strutts offered the building as a military hospital for injured personnel recovering from serious wounds.

George Herbert Strutt (18531928) paid for Col. Maurice Hunter, the Belper estate architect, to adapt the building and he paid for the furnishing and equipping of the place with accommodation for 40 men, which opened in 1915.

Strutt also defrayed the running costs. By the war’s end and its de-commissioning in 1919 over 3,00 men had been treated or rehabilitated at Green Hall.

Matron Ethel May Crump was awarded the Royal Red Cross decoration for her service.

After several fruitless attempts to find a tenant for the hall, in 1931 the Strutt estate decided to sell the contents and turn the building into ten flats: four flats on the ground floor, five on the first and one above two garages at the north end. One ground floor flat was a clinic before the Second War, when it became an ARP post, being domesticised in 1947.

The flats varied in size from one room to a suite of four with kitchen and bathroom. Most, though had shared facilities; Mr. Alan Cockayne, who contacted me some years ago now to tell me he had spent much of his childhood there is the person we have to thank for these details.

By 1947 the building has fallen into a poor state, made worse by the restrictions on building work imposed by Earl Attlee’s government, ensuring that no repairs were done for quite five years and even then, it appears they were cosmetic. Mr. Cockayne’s family moved out in 1956, and within two years, the house, which quickly became derelict, was demolished and the site cleared. Almost inevitably, it became a car park. This was later supplemented by a row of nondescript shops and a gabled pub called the Green House.

18 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

This page from top to bottom: Top of the service stair, Green Hall, c. 1947. [Rod Jewell] Green Hall in decay, c. 1956.

[Private collection] The 1921 War Memorial obelisk with Green Hall behind. [Private collection] Green Hall, a bedroom as adapted as a ward of the military hospital. [Rod Jewell]

Belper -

A Lively Market Town

T

he town of Belper is well endowed with parks and open spaces. The Memorial Gardens add a colourful attraction to King Street, the main shopping street, and across the bridge opposite Strutt’s Mill, Beaurepaire Gardens: a small quirky haven full of surprises, including a miniature railway and little glades where you can sit and relax.

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

SKIN CLINIC COLLAGEN POWER ANTIAGEING FACIAL COOL PEEL ACNE, ACNE ROSACEA & SCARRING TREATMENTS HYDRA BOOST FACIAL TREATS DRYNESS, ECZEMA & HYDRATES

I.P.L - LASER PERMANENT HAIR REMOVAL, THREAD VEIN REMOVAL, PIGMENTATION LIPO MASSAGE LOSE WEIGHT, INCH LOSS, TONING & FIRMING

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 19

B

elper is a vibrant market town in the heart of the Derwent Valley. A world heritage site, Belper is a great day out for all the family; shop, eat, drink and enjoy the beautiful, historical and friendly

town. The original winner of Great British High Street the town offers a diverse selection of shops and award winning cafes and restaurants as well as pubs and a cinema.

You will find a fabulous selection of independent shops for all

the family. Beautiful boutiques for ladies, men and children.

Amazing gift and lifestyle shops.

Unique homewares, arts and crafts. There are also specialist and traditional shops such as a greengrocer, butcher, florist, motor supplies, ironmongery and much more! The second Saturday of the month is market day with fresh fish, fresh vegetables, fresh meats, cheeses, breads, cakes etc. There

‘For All Your Jewellery, Cards & Gifts’ 18, Campbell Street, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1AP T: 07402 058 896 E: thewillow.belper@outlook.com FACEBOOK: thewillow.belper

STOCKISTS OF QUALITY MENS CLOTHING AND MUCH MORE

21, Strutt Street, Belper DE56 1UN enquiries@strutmenswear.co.uk www.strutmenswear.co.uk

Art and Craft Workshops For more information www.creartii.co.uk

Wool Shop and Haberdashery Open 10 2 Wed and Thurs

Both under one creative roof - 17 Green Lane, Belper. DE56 1BY

PREMIER INDIAN RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY IN THE HEART OF BELPER

Special Offer £10 OFF WHEN 4 PERSONS OR MORE DINE IN! £5 OFF WHEN 2 PERSONS OR MORE DINE IN.

Present this advert when ordering to receive your discount

Terms & Conditions Apply Dining in only and cannot be used with any other offers, Only 1 voucher per table can be used. Advanced booking required. Excluding Saturdays.

For bookings telephone 01773 823885 Lower Ground Floor, 17, Strutt Street, Belper, DE56 1UN www.praanrestaurant.com

MOTOSTOP For All your Motoring Needs Car Parts • Car Accessories • Car Care All at competitive prices.

Trade Discounts Available We endeavor to match or better any comparable quote

Tel 01773 822511 sales@motostop.co.uk

Buy online at www.motostop.co.uk & collect in store 78 King Street Belper DE56 1QA (T&C’s Apply)

20% Off YOUR BILL

on production of this advert.

Valid until the end of June 2019.

Serving home made food and suppliers of handmade artisan chocolates.

Tantalising treats to ultimate hot chocolates. Legendary chilli nachos and a variety of salads to lovely sweet scones. We have it all!

Open Mon-Sat 9.30am -5pm (Closed Sunday)

2, Strutt Street, Belper, Derbyshire Tel: 01773 880181

Email:info@ishouldcocoacafe.co.uk

is a great selection of cafes and restaurants catering for breakfasts, lunch, afternoon teas and evening meals, to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. With a blossoming arts and entertainment scene Belper really is a fabulous day or night out.

You can travel to Belper by bus, train or car, there is even free carparking at the Coppice. Belper is also the most accessible town in Derbyshire thanks

to the wonderful efforts of accessible Belper.

To find out more about heritage, events, arts, shopping, eating and places to stay visit: www.lovebelper. co.uk. Follow ‘Love Belper’ on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Start planning your visit now, mention Country Images and pick up your free Love Belper map to help you explore!

Art Gallery British & Luxury Imported Leather Handbags • Mens, Ladies & Unisex Jackets • Quality Gifts & Accessories for the whole family!

Now In Belper!

Open Tuesday-Friday 10am-4.30pm Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm Closed Sunday & Monday

Open: Tuesday,Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am-5pm Wednesday 10am -2pm

5 Bridge Street, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1AY Tel: 01773 829999 www.England-Pellegrino.co.uk

Tel: 01773 827508 E: jill.underwood59@gmail.com www.duffieldartgallery.co.uk Beautiful Independent Ladies Boutique in the heart of Belper for 17 years

Stockists of Unusual Gifts and Homewares made in Derbyshire & Scandinavia T: 01773 856609 E: hello@nordicana.co.uk www.nordicana.co.uk 13, Bridge Street, Belper, Derbyshire

Stockists of French and Italian Ladies Wear with something for everyone including a plus size range with a large range of costume jewellery, scarves and accessories always in stock.

Nail Salon upstairs

Dressing Room Boutique 11 Bridge Street, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1AY Tel:01773 828283 Tues 10am-3.30pm Wed 11am-3.30pm Thurs- Sat 10am -5pm

Serving Delicious Breakfast , Light Lunches, Snacks Traditional Cream Teas Served Daily 2 King of Street, Belper (opp.

HSBC) Wide Range Loose Leaf Teas Available 2 King Street, (opp.

HSBC) Open Mon - Belper Sat 9.30am - 5pm ChildOpen andMon Wheelchair Friendly - Sat 9.30am - 5pm

Tel: 01773 880135 3 Strutt Sreet, Belper, Derbyshire 25 King Street Belper Derbyshire

01773 599638

Visit our shop for a fantastic array of Ladies and Gents Bath Bombs, Soaps and Shampoo Bars We also stock Beauty products, Plant and Soya Wax Candles Perfect Gift Ideas All products are made with natural ingredients and cruelty free

2 King Street, Belper (opp. HSBC) Open Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5pm

Tel 01773 824192 www.thisboutique.com Tel 01773 824192 www.thisboutique.com

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 21

King Street boasts the old abandoned Police call box, still painted in its original blue, but the phone doesn’t work. Shopping in Belper is a pleasure. With many of its town centre shops still run by the same families for generations, they can offer a better service than many of the multiples. Most are set around King Street and its side roads, together with those along the main road. King Street is proud of the fact that in 2014 it was overall winner of the Great British High Street Competition. Now semi-pedestrianised, it is sufficiently traffic free to allow florists and greengrocers to set out their wares in colourful profusion. On each street you will find businesses catering for all tastes, from deli’s meats, clothes, cafe’s, bars, accessories, carpets and home products, estate agents and solicitors, hair and beauty and much, much more.

Belper

For the ultimate relaxation there are the River Gardens. When the Strutt Company was sold to English Sewing Cotton in the early 20th century, George Herbert Strutt already something of a philanthropist, became a very wealthy man.

With this wealth he was able to indulge in several schemes that benefitted the town. A school and hospital were followed by what became Belper’s finest attraction, the River Gardens. Today there is no longer open air swimming as in time gone by, but the colourful beds and band concerts in summer are still a popular attraction. Belper, as a town, is really welcoming and makes it easy to have a family day out with plenty to do and has the added benefit of lots of parking.

Carpets

Vinyl

Designer

Wood & Laminates

More than just a pub Lovingly prepared seasonal food available including our new pizza menu.

Pizza Takeaway Available.

10% OFFis with th advert

Classic CARPETS & FLOORING Call 01773 820928 for a free estimate 24 Market Place, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1FZ FAMILY RUN WITH 50 YEARS EXPERIENCE

22 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Parties, wakes and weddings catered for come and have a chat, we have years of experience of catering for large events.

Make a weekend of it and stay locally!

Opening times:

Monday 5pm to 9pm Tuesday to Thursday 5pm to 11pm Friday and Saturday 12 noon to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 9pm Food served 5pm to 9pm Monday to Thursday 12 noon to 3pm and 5pm to 9pm Friday and Saturday 12 noon to 5pm Sunday

Tel: 01773 828771 The Fishermans Rest , Boradholme Lane, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 2JF hello@fishermansrestbelper.co.uk www.fishermansrestbelper.co.uk

Get the Summer Look for

for

him

her

Wholesale & Retail Pork Butcher

Limited

Celebrating

120 years of family business

Producers of

Latest Kipling in Summer Colours

The Fabulous

Gianni Conti from Italy

Leather Shop

of Belper

2a Chapel Street, Belper, Derby DE56 1AR Tel: 01773 822794

Traditional Home Cured & Smoked Bacon, and Home Cured Hams 5 VARIETIES OF HOME-MADE PORK PIES TRADITIONAL COOKED MEATS DERBYSHIRE PIES

International Award Winning Sausages. 10 varieties available.

This voucher entitles you to any purchase in store Orders up to the value of £100

20% off

BBQ fayre available throughout the summer

www.freshbasil.co.uk 01773 828882

Suppliers of traditional Derbyshire oat cakes Makers of Gold Medal Winning Black Pudding

23 Strutt Street, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1UN

7 King Street, Belper 01773 822557

Owners Kyle and Marina welcome you to their newly refurbished restaurant We specialise in a mixture of fantastic Italian dishes and more traditional English dishes.

We are extremely passionate about our British Italian Fusion cuisine.

We create our menus using the best fresh, and seasonal locally sourced ingredients. An experience to satisfy everybody’s taste buds.

Sundays at The New Inn LUNCHTIME MENU 2 courses £10.95 3 courses £12.95

The perfect end to the weekend, enjoy a delicious lunch in exquisite surroundings. We offer a delightful roast, either roast beef, pork, lamb or turkey. Served Sunday 12 noon-5pm If you have a special event or a gathering coming up, consider holding your event with us. We’ll do the hard work for you!

01773 825050 | www.newinnmilford.co.uk | bookings@thenewinn.net | Hopping Hill, Milford, Belper DE56 0RL Open Monday to Saturday 12 noon – 9.30pm, www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 23

Belper Goes Green

The sixth Belper Goes Green Eco-Festival returns on Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd of June at the Rugby Club, Strutts Playing Field, Belper.

DKJ Ltd Sawmills Garage 27 Ripley Road, Sawmills, Nr Belper, DE56 2JQ 01773 689 072 or 07971 530 069

DOORSTEP MILK DELIVERIES Bottled milk in the following areas; Swanwick, Somercotes, Alfreton, Selston, Belper, Heage, Nether Heage, Crich, Fritchley, Lea & Holloway.

Or call in and collect from the garage.

Home made hanging baskets and plants available daily

• Tyres • Diagnostics • Welding • 4 x 4’s , Vans, Cars • Servicing – 24 hours • Diesel Particulate Filter maintenance unblocking • Engine and gearbox repairs • Air con re-gas • 24hr recovery

‘FAMILY RUN BUSINESS’

We specialise in classic & vintage cars, tractor repairs and rebuilds.

24 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Do you have questions about your Pension? *How much tax free cash can we have?

Can we now get more from our annuity?

Can we reduce our existing pension charges?

FULL HEAD FOIL & CUT £60.00 WITH SALLY, OUR NEW COLOUR SPECIALIST NEW CLIENTS ONLY

11-13 KING STREET, BELPER | 01773 822828 www.lesterandnix.co.uk

ULTRA PROTECTIVE DUO SYSTEM (K-PAK 4 STEP & DEFY DAMAGE)

sold as an agent of euronics ltd

Come in to see the latest Dyson cordless vacuum.

The V11 ABSOLUTE EXTRA. We are a Dyson Premier Dealer and can supply a full range of vacuum cleaners, cooling and air treatment products.

WORTH - £50 NOW - £40

K- PACK DIAMOND MIRACLE £35.00 DEFY DAMAGE £15.00 ALSO AVAILABLE: ST TROPEZ SPRAY TAN

8 Market Place, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1FZ Tel: 01773 820000 www.prestigebelper.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 25

BELPER COAL SUPPLIES COAL - SMOKELESS - LOGS

TRADE PRICES on the

DUNSLEY range of stoves

3 MARKET PLACE, BELPER belpercoal@yahoo.co.uk

01773 822721

Belper Goes Green

B

elper Goes Green, organised by Transition Belper, is an eco-festival that aims to share simpler, low carbon and environmentally friendly ways of doing things in a relaxed and uplifting way that showcases the best our community has to offer. Over the weekend there will be 2 stages of diverse live entertainment, a CAMRA Beer Festival with large selection of real ales, hot and cold food (including plenty of delicious veggie options), toys and activities to keep the little ones happy and many crafts and community art projects to get involved with. There will be energy and low carbon travel advice, craft and recycling stalls, a whole range of campaign groups, charities and for those seeking to relax and find peace we have a large health and wellbeing area.

Organiser Mark Creed said: "Belper Goes Green is a free, inclusive event for the whole family that offers simple solutions to living a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.”

Appliance & spares by: • Broseley • Flavel • Esse • Charnwood • Hunter • Dunsley • Parkray • Fireside Accessories • Flexible Flue Liner • Twin Wall Flue

As a green festival we strive to be environmentally responsible with extensive recycling efforts, information boards, renewable energy powered stages, reusable recycled glasses and a solar power recharge point. Admission is FREE and the event opens on Friday evening on 1st June for the beer festival in the clubhouse and a full programme of entertainment in the main marquee.

On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd stalls will be open from 11.00 am - 5.00 pm whilst the entertainment and beer festival continue until later on in the evening.

www.belpercoalsupplies.co.uk

Decorative

& HOMELY

F L O O R I N G Carpets, Vinyls Laminates Solid Wood For all your flooring needs KING STREET, BELPER Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

01773 688484 QUALITY FLOORING AT

AFFORDABLE PRICES

Free Estimates

All flooring types for all rooms whatever the size & guaranteed to beat any like for like estimate

29 years in the flooring trade 26 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

www.dhflooring.co.uk

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

Nursing Care • Residential Care • Dementia Care • Long-term Care • Respite Care • Day Care

Home is where the Heart is.

At Spencer Grove, we pride ourselves on being a home that’s full of passion and even more heart. Always going the extra mile to be a home for life.

Why not give Donna a call to arrange a visit and see for yourself.

BOOK A VISIT 01773 599 349

SPENCERGROVE@MILFORDCARE.CO.UK

CARE HOME

SPRINGWOOD GARDENS, BELPER, DERBYSHIRE, DE56 1R T | W W W.MILFORDC ARE.CO.UK

Kitchen & Bedroom specialists Established 1985

10% OFF ALL appliances when purchased with a kitchen in June 2019*

“A trusted family business built on a solid reputation�

28 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

the value & your home

FROM OUR FAMILY… …TO YOURS OF RIPLEY

www.timberwindows.com

As a family run, independent business with over 30 years experience we pride ourselves on being able to provide a fully personalised and expert service which is unrivalled by larger retailers.

THE REASSURANCE OF DEALING WITH A

local

Whether your home is a country cottage, a Victorian semi, a modern town-house or a converted barn, enjoy a 10% discount off all windows and doors in our spring sale throughout May. Please visit us to explore our range of beautifully crafted engineered timber doors and windows, and get expert advice on enhancing the value and beauty of your home.

Our extensive showroom boasts an SPECIALIST impressive range of kitchens, worktops, bedrooms, tiles and accessories.

Our team of highly experienced designers and installers are here to help with anything from replacing an appliance to a full kitchen or bedroom design and installation.

WHY CHOOSE HOLTAMS?…

• Best value for money • Free design and planning serviceTEL: 01773 747456 • Quality 18mm colour co-ordinated cabinetsEmail: info@derwentsashwindows.co.uk • Extensive door styles to choose from • No pressure selling www.derwentwindows.co.uk www.derwentsashwindows.co.uk • Experienced friendly designers • Latest CAD 3D design software • Granite, solid surface and laminate worktops Visit Our Showroom • Large car park The Old Church,

www.holtams.co.uk

31 Nottingham Road, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3AS

Random Ridge, Pickard Lane, Heage, Nr Ripley, Derbyshire, DE56 2BD stunning ripley showroom

Opening Times:

T: 01773 852683 Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 4:30pm

fantastic displays

Open: Monday to Friday - 9am - 5pm Saturday - 9am to 4pm, Sundays - Closed *Terms and conditions apply

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 29

STOWE

GARDENS

By Brian Spencer

O

ne of Capability Brown’s earliest works, Stowe Gardens in Buckinghamshire was looking at its best when Brian Spencer visited it during a recent autumn break.

later owners to expand the garden, making it an ideal retreat for politicians looking for somewhere to meet and plot with their confrères, and maybe meet up with their lady friends on the odd occasion.

The gardens of Grade 1 listed Stowe House are the idyllic setting for Stowe School. The public school sits at the top of rising ground overlooking grounds that are, as the master gardener Capability Brown probably said, now looking at their best, having matured over three centuries. Our visit coincided with the sturdy beeches being decked in colours ranging from varying shades of yellow to brightest orange; their fallen leaves made patterns on the still waters of ornamental ponds dug by the hands of eighteenth century navvies.

Throughout the years the different owners all seem to have been able to extend the work of their predecessors, bringing in the top architects and garden designers of their day.

Throughout the 1700s the house and its grounds were a hive of activity, starting with architects of their day, such as Charles Bridgeman and then Sir John Vanbrugh, designer of Blenheim Palace. He worked on Stowe for six years until his sudden death in 1726 and was followed by James Gibbs whose speciality was the English Baroque style – a feature that shows itself in both the house and the garden’s stone-work.

The original estate was built by Sir George Gifford (1498-1557) whose wealth was based on wool. Very early in the fortunes of Stowe, the place became a popular venue for visits of the great and the good. This interest prompted

Most gardeners will agree that gardens take time to develop. In the case of Stowe, the time lapse was decades, almost running into centuries.

30 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Most of the work on Stowe Gardens took place in the mid-1700s. It was during this time that the young Lancelot Brown who had moved to Buckinghamshire as a free-lance garden designer, came to the notice of Lord Cobham at Stowe. He became head gardener, working closely with James Gibbs the architect responsible for the house and William Kent who had already laid out features such as the Elysian Fields, Temple of Ancient Virtue and also the Temple of English Worthies.

It was while Brown was developing Stowe’s gardens that he developed the style which was to give him the nickname ‘Capability’. Continuing Kent’s work, he laid out the garden making it look as natural as possible, in what became known as the Serpentine, or English style. As can be seen at Stowe, the central features are interlinked winding, or ‘serpentine’ lakes joined by bridges and cascades; all this is surrounded by follies, encircling carriage drives and clumps of trees.

ABOVE: The Palladian Bridge, built in 1738 by James Gibbs

RIGHT: A Minerva statue of Frigg

All of his work has now grown to maturity, confirming Brown’s opinion of the garden’s ‘capability’.

It was during Capability Brown’s tenure at Stowe that his ideas and skills came to the notice of the fashionable elite of the country and so in 1751 he left Lord Cobham’s employment at Stowe, to spend the rest of his working life advising the owners of great estates of the ‘capabilities’ of their properties.

At the zenith of its popularity, Stowe became the ideal meeting place where politicians came to unwind and discuss strategies with their fellow MPs. Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger rented the estate at one time, making it an early version of Chequers the grace and favour residence of future prime ministers.

Like many grand houses and their estates, Stowe has passed its usefulness as a place where

the great and good of society could use their wealth. Due to escalating maintenance costs, Stowe had to be found other uses. The result was that the house became a public school and the gardens given over to the care of the National Trust. While the house and the school’s sports facilities are not open to the public, visitors can stroll round the gardens and parkland on any day of the year. Like visitors from earlier times, the entrance to the 750 acre estate and its 40 listed historic monuments and temples is past the imposing Corinthian Arch and the Oxford Gates; the latter incidentally are built of wrought iron salvaged from a World War One German battleship.

Long before Stowe gardens became a National Trust property, the then current owners realised that it was necessary to provide somewhere for visitors to stay, or at least rest and take some refreshment. The New Inn close by the entrance

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 31

was built to provide this and it now serves as an entry and information point at the start of a tour round the gardens. Although no longer providing overnight accommodation it does offer excellent meals and light refreshments, all to the usual high standards of the National Trust. The New Inn also houses a useful information section where, along with a note detailing the birds currently seen around the grounds, as well as being the start of walks guided by experienced National Trust staff.

The short Bell Drive leads down to the start of the graded paths that meander over the gently sloping land on either side of the lakes and past monuments and temples. Children are well catered for with the choice of three walks, non-more than 1.3 miles in length. Even for adults, a walk around the garden need not be too exhausting; the following is just one of the strolls on offer and because we did it on our visit, we can say it was most enjoyable.

32 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

ABOVE: Temple of Concord and Victory

BELOW: A monument to Captain Cook

Temple Of Ancient Virtue

T

A TOUR OF STOWE GARDENS

he National Trust with an eye to the future is skilled at exciting the interest of young children: each of the three children-oriented walks through Stowe Garden is based on a theme to interest children of all ages. The easiest, a one mile walk is called ‘The path of the goodies’ and wanders past statues of Greek heroes on its way through the Elysian Fields to the Temple of British Worthies. The second, only a quarter of a mile longer, and is called the ‘Naughty Path’. Along it children can imagine fairy tales linked with myths and magic. The third children’s path is somewhat harder as it involves a hill climb. Called the ‘Heroic Path’, this 1.3 miles walk searches out Saxon kings and queens, along with commemorations of various long-gone battles.

We decided to go our own way and from the New Inn walked down the tree-lined drive to the Bell Gate and its view of the park across Octagon Lake. A right turn

ABOVE: The Temple of British Worthies

led us topically enough to the Temple of Friendship, the perfect start of our walk.

Swinging round to the right took us by way of a short detour to the Chinese House and then on to cross the top end of Octagon Lake and the Palladian Bridge.

Alcoves along the bridge framed the view down the lake and its islands topped by monuments to past dignitaries.

The path begins to climb beyond the bridge, past the Gothic Temple and a glade encircling famous Saxon Deities, then on to the top of the climb. Lord Cobham stands on top of a tall pillar at this point, marking the start of his favourite walk. It passes the head of Grecian Valley with its view of the classical Greek-based Temple of Concord and Victory. Another short diversion along the way takes in the Dancing Faun, then onwards to the temple. There are several paths downhill from this point, we chose, almost at random, one that took us by way

of a natural-looking grotto, past Captain Cook’s monument and a line of busts called The Temple of British Worthies.

Reaching the north shore of Octagon Lake, there are two possibilities; left back to the Palladian Bridge, or right as we did downstream to a cascade created artificially from stones apparently taken from mock ruins. Eleven Acre Lake stretches from the cascade, past a hermitage to the Temple of Venus. Bearing right at the lake end we climbed up to admire Queen Caroline’s statue, the unhappy wife of King George IV before making our way back down to the Octagon Lake and its attractive cascade.

We could have extended our walk by climbing the wooded hill, past the huge Rotunda, then onwards to the front of Stowe House. However, as time was pressing we continued left around the lake, back to Bell Gate Drive and a pleasant lunch at the New Inn.

ABOVE: One of the many stunning woodlands walks

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 33

19 19

R

T

R

T

Made to Measure Wardrobes

ING FO AD I N GI N G FO F AD AD R O R

R

R

T

Direct from the Manufacturer

YEAR YEARGUAYEAR RANTEE 8 93-201 19 8 8 9 3 - 9230- 12 0 1

RANTEUEARANTEE GUA G

YOUR YOUR CHOICE YOUR HOME, HOME, YOUR YOUR HOME, YOURCHOICE CHOICE High Windows,Doors Doors & Conservatories HighQuality Quality Service, Service, Windows, Conservatories High Quality Service, Windows, Doors& & Conservatories

Bi-Fold Doors Bi-Fold Doors MEASURING Bi-Fold Doors

AND FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE.

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

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

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

Conservatories

Call us now 01332 755551

Ask u

s abo

ut Tra

de Fi

nance u spre the c ad os home t of your impro veme nts Helpi

ng yo

Aluminium windows Aluminium windows Aluminium windows

we’re thinking for you

Call 01773 600040 www.gliderobes.co.uk

We’re open 7 days a week

Showroom open hours: Weekdays 9am-5pm. Saturday 10am-4pm

Unit 4, Hill Top Road, Amber Business Centre, Riddings, Derbyshire, 4BR| Sun: 10am-2p Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat: DE55 10am-3pm

www.tradewindows.com

Ask u

Let Total Home Improvements make your house a better home by providing the kind of service that you deserve

home

T: 01773 714 970 T: 0115 930 5858

Conservatories Conservatories

Conservatories

s aAbsok uu t sTraabdo euFtinTra HelpAinsk u ancdee F inanc gHyo b esulpasin e po g reuaytd the co oTurasp de Fin sH re t th olp ad ance feyin e home coo u grstyouf y imhporo sopurer a m veeem th d im ceopnsro ts t v

Composite Doors Composite Doors

ofeymoen urts impro veme nts

Doors info@totalhomeimp.co.uk Composite | www.totalhomeimp.co.uk

We’re open 7 days a week Callus usnow now01332 01332 755551 755551 We’re open 7 days a week Call Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat: 10am-3pm | Sun: a 10am-2pm We’re open 7products days week Call us now 01332 755551 www.tradewindows.com We supply and install a large range| Sat: of 10am-3pm Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sun: 10am-2p

www.tradewindows.com www.tradewindows.com

Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat: 10am-3pm | Sun: 10am-2p WINDOWS & DOORS IN: - UPVC - ALUMINIUM - TIMBER TRIPLE GLAZING UPGRADE NOW AVAILABLE

COMPOSITE WOOD

Find out more about our Trade Secure window and Art in Aluminium range

Find out more about our Trade Secure Findwindow out more our Trade range Secure and about Art in Aluminium Find out more about our Trade Secure window and Art in Aluminium range window and Art in Aluminium range THE ALL NEW FLUSH CASEMENT WINDOW

34 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

GARDEN ROOMS, FENCING, DECKING, BALUSTRADES & RAILINGS

Visit Trade Street today FASCIA, SOFFITS, GUTTERS CONSERVATORIES

CONSERVATORY UPGRADES

CANOPIES & CARPORTS Trade Windows Home Improvement Centre, VERANDAS Visit Trade Street today Navigation Retail Park, 810 London Road, Visit Trade StreetCentre, today Trade Windows Home Improvement Visit Trade Street today Alvaston, Derby, DE24 8WA Navigation Retail Park, 810 London Road,

Trade Windows Home Improvement Centre, Alvaston, Derby, DE24 8WA Trade Windows Home Improvement Navigation Retail Park, 810 London Centre, Road, Navigation Retail Park, 810 London Alvaston, Derby, DE24 8WA Road, Alvaston, Derby, DE24 8WA

Create Your Dream Bathroom

DISTINCT BATHROOMS

• Fully guaranteed, hassle free installation • Expert design and planning service using the latest interactive 3D software

Visit our showrooms at: Wellington Street, Ripley DE5 3EH Tel: 01773 749291

Dig Street, Asbourne, DE6 1GF Tel: 01335 418081

Email: enquiries@distinctbathrooms.co.uk Website: www.distinctbathrooms.co.uk FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Major stockists of

Classic Italian

Furniture

• Providing an extensive range of well known, trusted brands • Tiles, lighting, accessories and much more • Trade enquiries welcome

Part-exchange your old suite

Up to £600 trade-in discount

pm

Visit us on Facebook

The Derbyshire

Suite Centre

0% finance now available on selected lines subject to status Derby Road, Clay Cross, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S45 9AG Open 7 days Sunday 11am - 4pm

Visit our website www.derbyshiresuitecentre.co.uk

01246 862271

ample FREE parking

Highway Motors

We are here

CLAY CROSS Alfreton

Derby Road Clay Cross Power Sports

Chesterfield

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 35

Individually designed kitchens at affordable prices

Local Stockists

Over 150 genuine reviews on Checkatrade

www.checkatrade.com/KitchenSolutions

Still beating our competitors quotations, even during their sales!*

Kitchen Solutions (Langley Mill) Ltd

When you buy 4 or more aeg appliances for your kitchen (including an oven and a hob)

Telephone 01773 716465

WWW.KITCHEN-SOLUTIONS.NET

A610

ASDA To Heanor

CLAIM UP TO ** K C A B H S ÂŁ500 CA

To Eastwood

WE ARE HERE

St Andrews Church

36 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

St Andrews Court, 96 Station Road Langley Mill, Nottingham NG16 4BP Open: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm and Sat 10am-4pm. *Fitter Kitchens Only **Offer ends 30.06.2019

Modern Collectibles

by Maxwell Craven

Wade Whimsies W

ade is a manufacturer of porcelain and earthenware

Above: Late 1970s Whoppas: various wild animals. Despite the name, they are little bigger than ordinary Whimsies!

Below: Bambi, boxed, £19

originally with its headquarters in Burslem, part of what is now Stoke-on-Trent. Its history is complex and tortuous, but goes back to 1867 when three family firms were set up by various Wades in the potteries, now Stoke-on-Trent. The firm which nearly a century later introduced these tiny solid porcelain figures was George Wade & Son, originally Wade & Myatt. A contemporarily founded firm, John Wade & Co. (later Wade, Heath) became famous for making the tiles for the London Underground for many decades.

George Wade (1864-1938), was born in Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent. Son of a potter’s thrower and later manager who founded the business, he was educated at Nottingham College and eventually became Chairman of George Wade & Son Ltd. The firm originally manufactured ceramic products for the cotton industry as well as porcelain figures and groups.

The Wade family eventually moved to Watlands Hall in Porthill, Burslem and in 1905, George’s son George junior, left school and joined the family business at their new Manchester Pottery nearby.

The younger George, later Sir George (1891-1986), was the driving force throughout much of the twentieth century, latterly in partnership with his son Tony, who unfortunately outlived his father by only a year.

One of the firms the entrepreneurial Sir George’s father had taken over had a foundation date way back in 1810, enabling the Wade firms, all brought together by Sir George in 1958, to claim considerable antiquity.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 37

This page from top to bottom: A selection of more recent figures Sea Turtle from 1984 £5 Swan from set 10, £60 First series first issue spaniel with ball

Wade products included animal figures for its Collectors Club, whisky flagons, and a variety of industrial ceramics. Needless to say, I have yet to discover a collector of the firm’s industrial ceramics! The whisky flagons form a separate branch of modern collectibles to which, if my constitution will withstand the sampling process, I shall return in due course!

The beginning of figure making began in 1954, when Wade introduced what some marketing expert decided should be called ‘Whimsies’. These are very small solid porcelain animal figures first developed by Sir George, which became very popular and caught the imagination of collectors both here and in the USA. Because they are so small, the modelling is just a little less sharp than one might hope for, and a treacly glaze appears on some types which to my mind looks unattractive, but I am sure must have its adherents.

They were made continuously from then until the 1980s. One could even obtain a Whimsy free with (now defunct) Red Rose tea from 1967 (in USA from 1983). The first series of Whimsies were a set of animals that included a leaping fawn, a horse, a spaniel with a ball, a poodle and a squirrel.

A collectors’ club was founded in 1994 and is currently celebrating its silver jubilee. There are several paperback guides to collecting these items, too, which can be a great help if one is to avoid pitfalls. Wade also produced other lines, also of inexpensive collectable porcelain figures including TV Pets, Whoppas, and Minikins, the inspiration for which was, needless to say, TV shows, comic books, and Disney films, for which they had to obtain a licence, an expensive undertaking even in those days!

Following the death of Sir George Wade and then of Tony Wade, their potteries were sold to Beauford Ltd. in 1998 and renamed Wade Ceramics Ltd. This situation did not last long, and became

38 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Above: A large group of early Whimsies estimated at £10-15 Left: Most expensive: set 10 farm animals completed and boxed £325 Below: Series one squirrel £25

the subject of a management buy-out in 1999, becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Wade Allied Holdings Ltd. In 2009, they invested £7.9m in a new factory with the latest robotic manufacturing equipment to make ceramic flagons for the whisky industry, but alas, the last Wade factory in Stoke was closed in 2010, and sold for housing development, although the company HQ is still in Etruria but the figures are still made elsewhere.

I am afraid that where I work at Bamfords, these little figures tend to get sold in groups in general sales. This doesn’t sound very earth shattering, but is good news for the collector, for it means that to collect these items, you do not need deep pockets. Early figures, from the 1950s up to Set 10 go for quite impressive money. A swan was recently on offer for £60, but then paradoxically, a large group of early ones appeared in an auction catalogue with an estimate of £10-15. The most expensive I have come across was a boxed set (no. 10) of farm animals from c. 1960 offered for £325 which for such miniscule porcelain creatures, is going some. At home we have a 1970s turtle, but so modest in size that we couldn’t find it to photograph it! Those made under a franchise licence, like Bambi (which I spotted for sale at £20) also make more than the standard ones.

Needless to say, modern Whimsies are far less collectible, and

although they mainly retail on the right side of £10, they are no longer products of the Potteries and will take a lifetime to become desirable elements in anyone’s collection. I might add that car boots are still fruitful ground for acquiring these little items at an affordable price.

Ecclesbourne Valley Clocks

Antique Clock Restoration & Repair Personal, qualified & experienced repair service Please contact us to arrange a visit to your home for a FREE evaluation and quotation

07772 411663

evclocks@gmail.com Based just outside Belper

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 39

Considering changing your bathroom?

Visit our Showroom in Riddings for inspiration & expert advice

Metro Bathirooms You can also arrange for one of us to visit you and help design/quote for the work you require.

Open: Monday - Friday 9am-4pm Saturday 10am-3pm Shower Room & En-suites Bathroom Furniture & Storage Easy Access Bathrooms Tiles, Mirrors & Taps Full Bathroom Suites Space Saving Ideas

FOLLOW

US ON

A: Mill Lane [off Greenhill Lane], Riddings, Derbyshire DE55 4DB T: 01773 318008 E: info@metrobathrooms.co.uk W: www.metrobathrooms.co.uk

KEDLESTON HEATING

Mon-Thur 9.00 - 5.00, Fri 9.00 - 4.00, Sat 9.30 - 4.30

Tel: 01332 200303

kedleston14@gmail.com • www.kedlestonheating.co.uk

Not just a fireplace and stove showroom

The patio barbecue that converts to a log burner*

OUTDOOR LIVING HAS ARRIVED Say goodbye to ash and smoke being blown in your face with the new 2019 Chesneys Heat & Grill on display in our showroom.

Sale Room Coming Soon *Both supplied with their own flue.

40 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

The Cube: a log burning patio heater with an all round view of the fire*

34 Duffield Road, Five Lamps, Derby, DE1 3BH

E N H A N C E T H E VA LU E and beauty of your home with real timber

OF RIPLEY

Whether your home is a country cottage, a Victorian semi, a modern townhouse or a converted barn, we have a range of traditional and contemporary timber windows and doors that will complement it perfectly. Our timber products do not stick, warp or twist, require very little maintenance, offer modern standards of security and significant energy savings.

At Timber Windows of Ripley, our collection has been carefully and sensitively tailored to complement the English home, with attention to detail at the centre of everything we do.

OF RIPLEY

visit our showroom: The Old Church, 31 Nottingham Road, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3AS info@derwentsashwindows.co.uk www.timberwindows.com stunning ripley showroom

Tel: 01773 747456 Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 4:30pm www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 41

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom • Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed

up to

70% discount bathroom showroom at...

• Over 100 bathroom settings on show

DERBY’S LARGEST AND MOST EXCITING

• Vast product stock for immediate despatch • FREE in-store bathroom planning service • Trade enquiries welcome

DERBY’S LARGEST AND MOST EXCITING DERBY’S LARGEST AND MOST EXCITING

bathroom showroom bathroom showroom

FIND US: CanalLARGEST Street, Derby, DE1 2RJ DERBY’S AND MOST EXCITING

FREEPHONE:bathroom 0800 772 0773 showroom

RGESTOpening AND MOST EXCITING Hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm MON - SAT

om showroom

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

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

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

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom

• Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed

up to

70% discount

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom

• Over 100 bathroom settings on show s • shower enclosures • basins • furniture • suites • taps • heating

Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed baths shower enclosures enclosures •••basins basins furniture ••suites suites••taps taps• heating • heating baths••showers showers•• toilets toilets •• shower ••furniture

stock for immediate despatch up to • Vast product • Over 100 bathroom settings on show

70% discount

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom

• FREE in-store planning service • Vastbathroom product stock for immediate despatch

• Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed • FREEsq in-store bathroom planning service Trade enquiries welcome • Massive 6,000 ft showroom • Over 100 bathroom settings on show

up to

• Trade enquiries welcome

• Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed

• Vast product stock for immediate despatch

70% discount

• Over 100 bathroom settings on show FIND US: Canal Street, Derby, DE1 2RJ • Vast product stock for immediate despatch • Trade enquiries welcome • FREE bathroom planning service DE1 2RJ FINDin-store US: Canal Street, Derby,

772 0773 FREEPHONE:FREEPHONE: 0800• FREE 7720800 0773 in-store bathroom planning service Opening- Hours: 8.30am Opening Hours: 8.30am 5.00pm MON- 5.00pm - SAT MON - SAT

reet, Derby, DE1 2RJ

• Trade enquiries welcome

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

0800 772 0773

am - 5.00pm MON - SAT

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

Country

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

Noble Kitchens Bathrooms Bedrooms A BUSINESS BUILT ON REPUTATION

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

FREE Installation On Fitted Bedrooms

or visit www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

• Quality Materials and Interiors •Full and Complete Service

•Extensive Choice •Quality Workmanship

www.nkbb.co.uk | Email:noble.kbb@gmail.com M: 07980 096146 | 01773 852554

29A The Common, Crich, Derbyshire DE4 5BH Mon,Tue & Wed By Appointment. Thurs, Fri & Sat – 9am-4pm

A unique blend of the finest architectural products and personal service • Expert knowledge • Quality products • Precision installation • Great Customer service

We like to call this “the kompass experience”

Windows – Entrance doors – In-line sliding doors – Bi-fold doors – Lantern roofs

Call us on 01773 843322 or Email us at info@kompasshome.co.uk for a free consultation

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 43

Made to Measure Wardrobes Direct from the Manufacturer

MEASURING AND FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE.

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

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

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

we’re thinking for you

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

Unit 4, Hill Top Road, Amber Business Centre, Riddings, Derbyshire, DE55 4BR

Let Total Home Improvements make your house a better home by providing the kind of service that you deserve

T: 01773 714 970 T: 0115 930 5858 info@totalhomeimp.co.uk | www.totalhomeimp.co.uk

THS 12 MOSNT FREE INTERE

We supply and install a large range of products WINDOWS & DOORS IN: - UPVC - ALUMINIUM - TIMBER TRIPLE GLAZING UPGRADE NOW AVAILABLE

FASCIA, SOFFITS, GUTTERS CONSERVATORIES CONSERVATORY UPGRADES CANOPIES & CARPORTS VERANDAS

44 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

A family run business that specialises in all aspects of kitchen, bathroom and bedroom design. Offering a full installation service we can take care of the whole project for you, we’ll design your new space using our specialist 3D design software, we can even include any building or remodelling of your home.

With over 16 years experience in the industry you can be sure of the quality of service.

‘award winning kitchens - recently on at the main Miele stand at Grand Designs NEC’

British made kitchens that come with a full 10 year Warranty

Call us for a free no obligation design visit and let us help you to create your very own piece of Heaven!

36 Grosvenor Road, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3JF Tel: 01773 741130 Email: info@nevaehdesign.com

www.nevaehdesign.com *Terms and conditions apply

Visit our Old Hall

Call 0 www.a

Open Mon

We are proud to be celebrating

10 YEARS designing, manufacturing and supplying beautiful aluminium windows and doors!

We are delighted to invite customers past, present and future to join us at our

Open Day on Saturday, 22nd June 2019 between 10am and 4 pm for drinks. As well as viewing our beautiful showroom you’ll be able to take a tour of our factory and our staff will be on hand for a chat.

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

Call 01332 835212 46 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

r showroom at: l Mill Business Park, Little Eaton, Derby DE21 5Ej.

01332 835212 architecturalwindows.org.uk

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

Architectural Windows and Glazing

Innovative Aluminium Designs

www.architecturalwindows-derby.co.uk Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm. Evenings and Weekends by appointment. www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 47

The

Wild Blue Yonder

M y interest in butterflies

began many years ago , they fascinated me as they swooped and cavorted amongst the blooms in the flowerbeds of my childhood home. I wanted to learn more about them, so I bought the Observers Book of British Butterflies.

Now I was well and truly hooked, red admiral, peacock, purple emperor, Chalkhill blue, Adonis blue, such wonderful names. We regularly spent Summer holidays in Dorset camping and I soon learnt that there were different species to be found there to the “normal” ones that I was familiar with in Derbyshire. This is due to different species feeding on specific food plants that in turn need specific conditions to grow in, plants that will not grow well in the clay soils of the Midlands. The habitat has to be right to support the existence of the colonies that certain species live in and just as birds have different family groups, so do butterflies. Some are loners and are seen in ones and twos, others can live in quite large groups providing that conditions are right.

The further south you travel, the warmer the climate becomes and the earlier things start to come to life after the winter break. In Dorset the underlying rocks are limestone, and the chalk Downs are home to some of my favourite British butterflies, the “Blues”.

In landlocked Derbyshire we have but two species of blue butterfly, the Common blue which feeds on birds-foot trefoil, and the Holly blue which in my old book was said to feed on holly and ivy.

I have seen this particular insect using dogwood, firethorn and have recently seen a photograph of it laying eggs on climbing hydrangea, all of which would explain its fondness for the suburban garden.

Dorset on the other hand offered up a further three species to the budding naturalist in the form of Adonis blue, Chalkhill blue and the smallest of them Cupido minimus the small blue. Travelling down to Dorset, we would pass through Hampshire and the New Forest another favourite area for me. The heathland here supports colonies of the Silverstudded blue a little jewel of a butterfly and another not found in Derbyshire.

My fondness for this particular family of butterflies stems from the beautiful iridescence of their wings, the Adonis blue in particular is absolutely stunning

48 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

when freshly emerged and such a gorgeous shade of blue. The wings of a butterfly are covered in scales much like the tiles on your roof. These scales reflect light of different wave lengths thus giving the appearance of colour.

I hope you are inspired to find out more about them just as I was all those years ago.

My interest continues to this day, once an entomologist, always an entomologist and I have now expanded that interest to include other orders of insect. Our holidays are planned around what may be seen on the wing at any time and afford opportunity to be photographed to share with a wider audience.

David Clay

Selling your home with RF&O will be the best move you’ll ever make!

RF&O presents our Prestigious Homes Service, specifically designed for properties with distinctive characteristics and unique features.

For more information on this service and other ways that RF&O can help you sell your home contact our expert team today.

...all your property needs, under ONE roof!

Landline: 01773 609 446 Mobile: 07530 298 948 Email: enquiries@rfoproperties.co.uk

www.rfoproperties.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 49

Make an Entrance A

dding a new or redesigned entranceway may be one of the simplest ways of adding value to your home. The cost’s generally dependent upon your location. Derbyshire has an abundance of hills and if your proposed drive has a steep incline, up or down, then this could have a significant impact on costs.

If your property fronts onto the public highway then construction of a new vehicular access or drop crossing will necessitate obtaining permission.

Regardless of whether planning permission is required, the Highways Authority, possibly the County Council, requires the access to comply, as closely as possible, with their standard approved details.

If you opt to employ a private contractor you are responsible for their work and any errors or omissions. You will need to read their contract conditions very carefully before you enter into a formal agreement. By using the private contractor option, you are also responsible for guaranteeing those works for 2 years and for any damage to the highway or utility apparatus which is generally located under the pavement, and any claims due to an incident caused by the works.

DS

Builders & D r i ve w a y s

PLASTERING

SPRAY RENDERING All coloured render applications

External Insulation Systems Traditional Renders All interior plastering work

07746 770630 www.dssprayrenderingspecialist.co.uk

dsplastering@live.co.uk

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Tarmacing Block Paving Presscrete Gravel Fencing Patio

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

Tel: Martin 01246 865537 or 07970 482956

www.premierpowercleaning.co.uk

50 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Est. 1991

DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS • WALLING

Transform the Outside

with our driveway solutions • Driveways • Forecourts • Paths • Car Parks • Slabbing and Block Paving • Dropped Kerbs • Patio • Fencing • Concreting

Individually Designed Driveways, Patios & Walkways G.W.H Paving Services Ltd specialises in styling individually designed driveways, patios, walling and walkways for domestic or commercial properties. We work with a wide range of paving materials to blend with the age and style of your property.

Joe Brown Contractors Ltd

Established in 1991, we have a large portfolio of projects. A selection of our designs can be viewed on our website as well as customer testimonials and details of our award winning projects.

Domestic and Commercial Tarmac and Paving Specialists

All hard landscaping installations come with a 5 year workmanship guarantee as standard.

For advice or a free quote call Simon:

01773 605372

www.gwhpavingservices.co.uk

Marshalls Register National and Regional Award Winners

01773 834455

info@joebrowncontractors.co.uk www.joebrowncontractors.co.uk

Felley Mill Fencing

All our work is guaranteed for 2 years

Driveways Roof Cleaning Soffit, Fascia Conservatories Gutter Cleaning BEFORE AFTER

Felley Mill Fencing are skilled in the erection of a variety of fencing including: Domestic | Security | Close-board | Agricultural | Equestrian Tree Surgery Work

12 Main Road, Underwood, Nottinghamshire, NG16 6GF

Tel: 07821 422 046 www.felleymillfencing.co.uk Email: felleymillfencing@live.co.uk

BEFORE AFTER

We offer a wide range of cleaning services to both domestic and commercial clients. Our staff are full insured, experienced and dedicated to looking after our clients individual needs. We use state of the art equipment together with a traditional common sense approach. We are able to provide full risk assessments and method statements for all tasks and we guarantee 100% client satisfaction.

01773 423963 | 07864 867265 contact@elk.cleaning | https://elk.cleaning www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 51

Transform the look of your home with

A new resin driveway

Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire’s only approved resin installer.

Call for a free quote

Buy with confidence

Buffalo Driveways are the area’s local leading installer of porous resin bound driveways, patios and pathways.

Buffalo will transform your driveway, old or new.

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

52 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Local Testimonials: “We used Buffalo Driveways to prepare and lay a new resin driveway. Really friendly people but very professional. They worked very hard despite theexceptionally hot temperatures.

Really pleased with the end result.”

Patricia, Nottinghamshire “Excellent job. Lived up to expectations and I am very happy with the experience.”

Michael, Derbyshire “Very happy, absolutely perfect. They checked in with us every step of the way and are coming back to see if we are happy, Buffalo Driveways can be trusted. They do the work they say they will, within the timescale specified.”

Mrs Davids

Why choose Buffalo?

Do you have an old tired driveway?

Do you want to have the latest premium drive in as little as 24 hours?

• • •

Hard wearing Anti-slip surface Completely porous no more puddles

What colour would you choose?

Did you know that if you already have a drive, we can use it as a sub base? This means that we may not have to excavate your current driveway, we simply prepare the existing drive and overlay on top!

Our friendly designer John, will work with you to design your perfect driveway, path or patio. We have plenty of colour choice ideas and a huge selection of edgings.

Choose the style which suits yourself and home. Our range of edging has a style to suit all properties from traditional round top edge to ultra-modern aluminium.

Free samples available for collection • Weed resistant • UV protected - won’t fade or discolour • In most cases, we don’t have to excavate your current driveway • Value for money – you may save money on your water bill • Complete the transformation in as little as 24 hours – including preparation and overlay • All of Buffalo’s work comes with a minimum of 5 year guarantee • 10 year guarantee on full sub-base work

Before

After Unit 1, Amber Drive, Baily Brook Business Park, Langley Mill, Derbyshire NG16 4BE

Join us for a coffee and free advice by appointment

Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm & Saturday by appointment only TEL: 0800 031 9050 (Head Office) 01773 712288 sales@buffalodriveways.co.uk

www.buffalodriveways.co.uk

SPE

C I A L IS

CE TS IN RESIN SURFA

S

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 53

Make an Entrance

Therefore resist the temptation to have it done by a contractor who knocks on your door or someone you know from the pub offering to do it ‘on the cheap’.

Because of the potential for damage to gas, water, electrics, data and telecoms infrastructure in the footway a reputable contractor needs to carry public liability insurance of at least £5 million, and you should ask for a copy of their insurance documents to ensure that it is up to date.

If your proposed driveway will be created on what is presently garden then surface water run-off can become a problem. Soils and planting will generally absorb much more water coming onto it compared with tarmac or concrete. However it is now possible

to use ‘thirsty’ concrete which has, according to suppliers, incredible rates of absorption. A distinction is made between ‘porous’ and ‘non porous’ surfaces but either way you are responsible for disposing of water falling on your drive within your own boundaries, letting it run over the pavement is not an option.

Of course if to create parking space you must cross land that is privately owned then you will also need to negotiate with the owners to obtain their approval in writing and ensure that the rights obtained are included within your property deeds. Specific legal advice will be necessary and the costs incurred will be money well spent.

M Scott Joiner

• All aspects of Internal & External Joinery • Staircases • Windows & Doors • Flooring & Skirting • Kitchens • Decking

Tel: 01773 602446 Mob: 07960 222298

The Gate Maker

Driveway Specialists Over 35 Years’ Experience

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

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

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

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

01773 745822

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

Phone 01773 745822 NOW

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

54 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

• • • • • •

TARMAC SPECIALISTS BLOCK PAVING SPECIALISTS DROP KERBS (COUNCIL APPROVED) FENCING & PATIOS LANDSCAPING ALL GENERAL BUILDING SERVICES

PLEASE CALL BELPER OFFICE: 01773 853994

EMAIL: INFO@JGSLIMITED.CO.UK WEB: WWW.JGSLIMITED.CO.UK

JGS Construction Services Ltd Belper, Derbyshire

10 Year e e Guarant

12 years of Artificial Grass installation

JOIN OUR MANY HAPPY CUSTOMERS WITH A NEWLY INSTALLED ARTIFICIAL GRASS LAWN FOR 2019!

Envi Lawns Artificial Grass Installers

We offer a Supply & Installation service for Artificial Grass across the East Midlands. With more than 12 years experience & expertise in the installation of artificial grass there’s not many that know more than we do about the subject.

Use your garden all year round

As you can see from the images, artificial grass technology has come a long way since the early days when it attracted such names as ‘fake grass’ & ‘plastic grass’. Today’s artificial grass is manufactured from materials that are both UV stabilised & Hypoallergenic respectively protecting the colour of the grass from fading due to the sun’s ultra violet rays & not having any plant material component, free from all pollens, thereby safe for those who suffer from plant & pollen allergies.

There maybe cheaper services around, but none come with our level of professionalism & our piece of mind 10 year guarantee on all artificial grass products.

Get Your Artificial Grass Lawn and Play Area Step 1 : Contact us to arrange a no obligation Free estimate for the area you have in mind.

During our visit we will show you actual samples of all of the different types of artificial grass that we can supply & install.

This will help you choose both the colour & pile height for your artificial grass area.

Step 2 : Finalise a fixed price quotation & once accepted, arrange a date for installation to commence. The installation can take anywhere from 2 - 5 days subject the installation area.

awns nvi E L Artificial Grass Installers

01773 252254 | 07525 334363

info@envi-lawns.co.uk www.envi-lawns.co.uk

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 55

Gardening in June with Mark

Smith

W

ow! June already. This year has gone extremely quick and we are into the flower show season with RHS Chelsea just gone and our very own RHS Chatsworth starting next week. I still get asked about designing my own show garden as at the first RHS Chatsworth. It’s the third RHS Chatsworth this year and, if the second show was anything to go by, this year will be superb. In my opinion this show is really finding its feet. I hope to see you there.

Allotment or Vegetable Patch: · Check for signs of woolly aphid on fruit trees. · Protect strawberries from birds by covering them with netting. · Hang pheromone traps or bird feeders in apple and plum trees to control pests. · Water strawberries and gooseberries to help fruits swell. · Stop cutting asparagus by the end of June to allow the ‘ferns’ to form. · Feed fruit trees and bushes with liquid sulphate of potash, such as a tomato feed. · Feed tomato plants every time you water with a suitable fertiliser.

In the Greenhouse: · Paint greenhouse glazing with ‘Coolglass’ to help with keeping temperatures down and reduce scorching to foliage. · Water tomatoes regularly to help prevent fruit splitting. · Try hanging sticky traps over plants to catch any white fly. · Important to water grow bags and pots regularly, sometimes daily if needed in very warm weather. · Take out side shoots of developing tomato plants

· Liquid feed any planted up hanging baskets. · Place pots of tagetes (you will find them with the bedding plants) near greenhouse doors to deter white fly. · If going on holiday this month, set up a watering area using a grow bag tray and some capillary matting.

General Garden Maintenance: · A great time to sow new lawns with grass seed. Water well if we finally get some sunny weather. · Feed the lawn with a suitable lawn fertiliser. · Lower the blades of lawn mowers. · Plant out container grown trees and shrubs - remembering to water well if there is a lack of rain. · Cut back climbing plants that look straggly. · Turn over and refill compost heaps to help the composting process. · Apply bark mulches around newly planted or established trees and shrubs to retain moisture and help suppress weeds. · Look out for greenfly and black fly developing on shrubs, perennials (mainly lupins) and roses, spray with a pesticide. · Pick off dead flowering heads of rhododendrons and azaleas. · Remove “suckers” from standard roses, ornamental and fruit trees with secateurs.

To recreate your little bit of RHS Chatsworth, here are three plants you should include.

Clematis: Clematis is a must have in the garden. Very versatile they can be grown in a pot, used as a screen, grown through trees or used as ground cover. The hybrid varieties such as ‘The President’, ‘Hagley Hybrid’ or ‘Nelly Moser’ have big dinner plate sized blooms.

The species varieties such as ‘Tangutica’ and ‘Alpine Constance’ have smaller flowers but masses of them. If you decide to grow one in a pot, pick a variety that grows no more than 6ft – Raymond Evison Clematis do a range that grows no more than 3 to 4ft which is perfect for a container. My personal favourites are ‘Rebecca’, ‘Ice Blue’, ‘Oh La La’, ‘Cartmanni Early Sensation’ (evergreen – winter flowering) and this year’s new addition at Chelsea Flower Show ‘Chelsea’, ‘Giselle’ and ‘Samaritan Jo’. If planting in the ground make sure the soil is well drained and the base of the clematis is shaded by a shrub or a very thick layer of bark.

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

Full Garden Makeovers No Job Too Small • Free Quotations No Obligation • Special Rates for OAPs

Fully insured for:

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

Local, Reliable, Professional and Mature Businessman

COMPLETE GARDEN SERVICE/DIY

Please call Steve for advice and a free no-obligation quotation.

01773 607993 or 07778 200200

www.clipemandfellem.co.uk

For an affordable, reliable service Ring Steve on

56 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

T: 01773 856602 T: 01629 828101 M: 07739 834553

Stunning Garden Rooms see website for details

• Compliant with UK Permitted Development

(Which means planning permission is rarely needed)

• Finance available – Buy Now Pay 2020 • FREE design service and site survey

www.cabinmaster.co.uk

22 Stunning buildings on display at our show site Show site: The Rose Gardens, 251 Toton Lane, Stapleford, Nottingham NG9 7JA Opening times: Monday–Sunday 10am-4pm 0115 932 8888 • Compliant with UK Permitted Development

(Which means planning permission is rarely needed)

www.arcticcabins.co.uk

• BBQ All Year Round • Buy Now Pay 2020

10 Year Guarantee

Finance Subject to status, terms and conditions apply. See website for details. *Planning permission rarely required if you have permitted development rights at your property. www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 57

Weigela Rubidor, right: There are many varieties of Weigela but ‘Rubidor’ is by far my favourite with the vivid bright golden leaves that contrast well with the crimson flowers. Compact growing ideal for a container needs little care but the old flowers need pruning back straight after flowering. Height; 4ft and needs a sunny well drained position.

Escallonia, below: Fantastic evergreen shrub with healthy looking, glossy leaves and either white, pink or red flowers. Will happily grow in sun or shade and in any type of soil. Prefers a slightly sheltered position – my personal favourite varieties are ‘Apple Blossom’, ‘Iveyii’ and ‘Red Elf’ but all varieties will make a great evergreen hedge if planted about 2ft apart.

If you need any independent help / advice, please contact me garden.guru@ntlworld. com or 07817651216 or Facebook. Just search for Mark Smith Garden Guru and look for my smiley face.

Currently I am receiving lots of gardening questions via email, I do try to answer them as soon as I can.

…home to a great range of quality plants, gorgeous gifts and garden furniture.

CLEEVE JOINERY A DIVISION OF H.A.BRIDDON LTD

Building | Construction Conservation | Bespoke Joinery Welcome to Cleeve Joinery, a division of H.A.Briddon Ltd, which is located next to our head office in Tansley, Matlock.

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.

Visit our tranquil tearoom and enjoy some delicious home cooking from light lunches – home cooked dinners, coffee and cake to tea and scones. We cater for everyone!

Garden Centre Southwell Garden Centre Fiskerton Road, Southwell, Nottinghamshire Open 9am to 5.30pm Tea Rooms Tel: 01636 812886 Open 9am to 4:15pm www.southwellgardencentre.co.uk

58 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

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.

We offer a full design and bespoke build on any project to your requirements; please contact our Joinery manager Ben Summers for a no obligation quote.

Mobile: 07392870388 Office: 01629 583202 Email: ben@habriddon.co.uk

British Made Hayters New range now available at Belmont Mower Centre

Mowers from £269* Ride-ons from £2,399* Rotavators from £399* *Price includes promotional offer

£400 OFF ride-ons and tractors £100 OFF lawnmowers and rotavators For more information please visit honda.co.uk/lawn-and-garden

BELMONT MOWER CENTRE DOMESTIC AND PROFESSIONAL GARDEN MACHINERY SPECIALISTS

Sales – Service – Repairs – Parts – Warranty

AT

Made from recycled plastic waste, our garden furniture will last a lifetime, with very little maintenance as they do not require staining or treating each year. They will not rot or splinter and are very tough.

OF

WE

G

NO

N

E

ST

MA N

N

AI

STAINI

HERPRO

OF

WE

AT

G

NO

LED WA

N

M

YC

PA I NTI

RO

T E I N BRI

ACTURED F UF

C

D

IN BRIT

RE

DE

N

Just one mile from M1/J28 and A38 on the B6O19.

Alfresco Dining Furniture MA

Belmont Mower Centre offers a large range of mowers for your gardening needs. As garden machinery experts with many years of experience, Belmont have knowledge of all the products available and can offer unbiased advice to help you choose the best machine to suit your needs and budget.

Contact them today to discuss your needs. 68-70 Alfreton Road, South Normanton, Alfreton, DE55 2AS

Tel: 01773 86 39 39 Open: Mon - Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 9am - 1pm

AI

ayter has been designing and producing premium quality lawn mowers at its headquarters in Hertfordshire since 1946 – and in 2016 celebrated its 70th year in business. Hayter lawn mowers are used by homeowners and professional contractors all over the UK and with a choice of electric lawn mowers and petrol lawn mowers in a range of sizes, there’s a Hayter lawn mower suitable for most gardens. Although offering a range of different lawn mower types Hayter is perhaps best known for its rear-roller lawn mower range, which help produce that beautifully British striped lawn effect.

MA

H

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

HERPR

O

Denby Outdoor Dining Table

Our extensive range includes:

R.M. TREE SURGERY

and Hedge Services

Quality Service & High Standard Assured • TREE FELLING • HEDGE CUTTING • TREE PRUNING & TOPPING • CONIFERS REDUCED OR TAKEN OUT

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

l Seats, benches & memorial seats Valley Dale Garden Set l Picnic tables l Nature range - including bird tables and nest boxes. l Children’s range of seats, benches and tables l We even have profiles of all sizes so you can make your own products.

Visit our showroom or website for full details:

www.tdp.co.uk Showroom open: Visit our 9.30am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday SHOWROOM (Weekends by appointment) Phone: 01629

820011

Tea for Two

or Email: info@tdp.co.uk

TDP Limited, Derby Road, Wirksworth, Derbyshire DE4 4BG

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 59

BBC Gardeners’ World Live Young Landscapers Award

T

he four contestants taking part have been announced. The two pairs will each create an inspirational front garden designed

by Professor David Stevens, at BBC Gardeners’ World Live where visitors can see the gardens from 13-16 June at The NEC Birmingham.

The contestants are the Matthew Wood, Sam Gordon, Reece McKay and Brian Hughes. The teams have been presented with the Show Garden designs set to challenge their skills and ingenuity, both designed by the eminent, and internationally renowned, garden designer Professor David Stevens. Professor Stevens explains “This year the competition highlights front gardens which are so often overlooked, after all first impressions count! The link between house and garden is vital and the two designs, one contemporary and the other more traditional, link strongly with the adjoining building. While planting naturally plays an important role so do the hard landscape elements of paving, steps and boundaries.

It’s fantastic to be working with Marshalls as sponsors of the competition, with their huge range of excellent materials that can be chosen to suit virtually any situation.”

The competition is as inspirational for the visitors as for those involved, as David explains “While the gardens will be an exciting challenge for the young teams, they will also be an inspiration to the public who can take many of the ideas home to enhance that all important plot at the front of the house.”

You’ll be able to see the two Show Gardens and discover which team has won the accolade of BBC Gardeners’ World Live Young Landscapers of the Year at the Show which takes place from 13-16 June 2019 at The NEC Birmingham. For info and tickets visit bbcgardenersworldlive.com

07711 934 377 01773 448639 E: j.t.treeservices@outlook.com W. www.jttrees.co.uk

Meynell Langley Gardens For all the best in quality Basket and Container plants with over 200 varieties available New Season perennials, shrubs and trees 24th June, 15th July, 19th August, 16th September and 7th October. Admission £4 NOW ON SALE

Tea Rooms

serving delicious lunches and homemade cakes Tea room from 10-4.30 Mon-Sat Nursery open from 9-5 Mon-Sat Sunday 10-4 Trials Garden and Tea Rooms available for evening group bookings from June; please call.

Lodge Lane, (off Flagshaw Lane), Kirk Langley, Near Derby.

DE6 4NT (next to Kedleston Hall) 01332 824358 www.meynell-langley-gardens.co.uk 60 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Reflecting on 25 years and more in business!

Lowes Marble

Middleton by Wirksworth, DE4 4NA. 01629 822216

L

owe’s Marble and Granite – Francis N Lowe Ltd. is a family business, located in the rural village of Middleton by Wirksworth near Matlock on the edge of the Peak National Park. Lowes was established in 1946 by Francis Norman Lowe and the company is now directed by Adrian Lowe (Francis’ son) and Elisabeth Johnson (Francis’ granddaughter) the second and third generation.

Lowes Marble are celebrating 71 years of manufacturing bespoke granite worktop, fire surrounds, hearths, vanity tops and much more from the site set up

by Francis N Lowe in Middleton by Wirksworth, near Matlock.

Their team of highly skilled dedicated masons, all of whom have been with them since leaving school, have been trained in house and have all the skills required for working natural stone, between them they have over 150 years experience.

Lowe’s Marble and Granite only use 1st choice premium quality granite, marble, limestone and quartz resin for our work ‘No compromise on quality’

M D Haney,

Swanwick, Alfreton DE55 1BQ. 07536 047087

A

s a family run business, M Haney Building has been servicing domestic and commercial properties across the Midlands for over 25years. Offering a wide range of professional building services including plumbing, electrics, alterations, conservatories, re-roofs, roof-work and chimneys ,UPVC windows, extensions, new builds and driveways.

MD Haney Builders will project manage your design from start to finish and have a large portfolio of projects from small walkways to full renovations. A selection of their work can be viewed by going onto their Facebook page M D Haney Builders Swanwick, Alfreton DE55 1BQ. 07536 047087

Watts 1858 Jewellers

Corn Market, Derby DE1 1QH 01332 291018

W

atts1858 is a family owned business established in 1858. Their luxurious and relaxed showroom based in the heart of Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, is with the help of their friendly and knowledgeable team, the perfect place to find that precious gem.

They stock a large range of competitively priced diamond rings and as an official stockist of brands such as, Omega, TAG Heuer, Bremont, Mont Blanc, Longines, Tissot, Mondaine, you can buy confidently with the knowledge of having the utmost in after care and service. The buying, selling and part exchange of watches and jewellery is also a speciality of the business.

Mont Blanc pens and leather, Georg Jensen jewellery, Fope, Kreiger and Ti Sento are also exclusive to Watts1858 in the Derby area. Also available alongside their extensive 18ct gold, diamond and platinum jewellery lines is a range of locally produced Blue John jewellery.

Archway Interiors

Nottingham Rd, Somercotes. 01773 608365

I

n 1982, the classic old Beastall building on Nottingham Road, Somercotes sadly lay empty, but not for long as it was soon to become a new kitchen showroom, the first of its kind in the area. And that, as they say, is history, as Archway Interiors was born.

Wind forward 37 years and this family business is still thriving and proud of the name over the door which has become synonymous with quality and trust.

On entering this lovely old building set over three floors you are greeted by the same friendly faces. The ground floor area opens out into the latest designs in bathrooms.

Up a few steps and you enter into the kitchen area which boasts a plethora of new kitchen designs from classic to contemporary, more are currently being added including a beautiful new range from Germany. The next floor showcases the latest designs in bedroom furniture.

Feel free to call in, meet the team over a coffee, and view the beautiful products on display.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 61

Musical Instrument

Hire & Sales

Here at Bass Bags we have high quality violins, cellos and double basses. All our instruments are set up by our luthiers and are available for hire or sale.

Long and short term hire is available for beginners to professionals.

We stock a large range of strings and accessories for violin, viola, cello and double bass.

Call us or visit our website for details.

Bass Bags Ltd The Old Brewery, DufďŹ eld Road, Little Eaton, Derbyshire DE21 5DS Tel: 01332 840391 support@bassbags.co.uk www.bassbags.co.uk

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

“You might learn something at my show – you might go home with a fact and say ‘blimey, I did not know that…”

Steve Orme interviews

Bill Bailey www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 61

W

hat makes comedy funny?

That’s not a question that’s part of a normal everyday conversation. But while speaking to comedian, musician and actor Bill Bailey, the man described as “the brainiest comic of his generation” almost unconsciously analyses how his act has changed to keep in step with comedic trends.

His current show Larks In Transit which is flying into Derby Arena this month contains more personal material than his earlier tours and many humourists are moving in a similar direction.

He tells me: “In the last ten or 20 years I’ve noticed that comedy has become much more confessional.

People like to talk about themselves and their own feelings, and that’s very much reflected in us generally as a society.

“We’re almost guilty of over-sharing on social media and the internet plays a big part in that. So there’s a little bit of that in the show but a lot of silliness as well. I get the audience to sing You Are My Sunshine in German which is always a delight to hear.”

Bill doesn’t aim to be an educator but he points out: “You might learn something at my show – you might go home with a fact and say ‘blimey, I did not know that and I’ve had a laugh over a couple of hours’. If I can do that, then my job’s done.”

We discuss other ways in which comedy has changed.

I note how comedians who tell joke after joke seem largely to have disappeared, except for the odd exception like Tim Vine. Bill admits he still likes oneliners and includes all sorts in his act so that you can’t really classify his brand of comedy.

“I like the well-turned phrase to describe a politician or a person in power. The use of language is very important to me because English is such a subtle, interesting language, lots of shades of meaning that can be used to great effect in comedy.”

Larks In Transit is billed as a “compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of 20 years as a travelling companion”.

“Stand-up’s very solitary – I write it, perform it, direct it, pretty much produce the whole thing myself.”

Bill elaborates on the content: “It’s almost a musical spoof lecture about how different kinds of music affects us in different ways, how you can change the nature of familiar tunes by playing them in different keys, exploring lyrically how songs work.

“I like to incorporate music, stories, anecdotes, all of that goes into the mix. But really it’s a reflection of where comedy has taken me over the last 20 years.”

Bill, a Labour Party supporter, makes references to politics during the show and makes no apology for that. “You can’t avoid it really. It’s dominated the national conversation for three years and there’s no getting away from it. I think it would be weird if you didn’t talk about it. But it’s not the main focus of the show by any means.”

Mark Robert Bailey was born on 13 January 1965 in Bath. His father was a medical practitioner and

62 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

his mother a hospital ward sister. He remembers liking comedy from an early age.

“When an elderly aunt died we had a wake at the house and I was making people laugh. I told a joke – I wasn’t very old – and my dad spat his tea out because he couldn’t believe I’d said it. Then my mum swore because my dad had spit his tea out. I’d never heard my mum swear. It was like a chaos bomb going off in the house and I thought ‘wow, this comedy lark is very powerful’.”

While he was at school his music teacher gave him the nickname Bill because he was able to play the song Won’t You Come Home Bill Bailey so well on the guitar. Later he became a classically trained musician.

But his individual style as a comedian got him noticed.

He was nominated for a Perrier Comedy Award for a show he took to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1996 and won the best live stand-up award at the British Comedy Awards three years later.

Since then Bill’s trademark hairstyle and goatee have become familiar through television appearances including Have I Got News For You, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and QI. He has also appeared on the small screen in Black Books, a Channel 4 sitcom; the E4 teenage show Skins; and a series of programmes about wildlife and natural history.

He loves the variety that comes from the different challenges presented by different sectors of entertainment.

“Comedy is my main love and what I’ll continue to do so long as I’m able to stand up - and perhaps even beyond that. Acting is good fun to do now and again because it’s a collaborative process.

“Stand-up’s very solitary – I write it, perform it, direct it, pretty much produce the whole thing myself. It’s a lot of pressure, there’s a lot of expectation. It’s very rewarding but it’s also extremely labour-intensive and exhausting.

“Being in the cast of a TV show is less pressure because someone else has written it, you’re performing other

people’s words so there’s not quite the same pressure on you. You can relax a bit and concentrate on the performance. It really hones your performance skills.”

In 2003 I saw Bill on stage in Reginald Rose’s 12 Angry Men at the Edinburgh Fringe. It featured 12 comedians.

Some of them had never been in a play before. It was an unforgettable production, one that Bill recalls fondly.

“I remember at the time everyone thinking there was no way we’d get a bunch of comics to be in a play and the whole thing would be a complete disaster – you could never trust comedians not to try and outdo each other.

“The fact that we even got together at the same time to rehearse was a minor miracle. So no one had any real expectations. Not only did it work very well, it was a big hit and spawned a whole bunch of other shows with comedians in. It was a terrific thing to be part of.

“I got to play juror four. It was a really good role to get my teeth into. And also I got to wear an unbelievable wig. I went to the National Theatre, you go into this wig store and all the wigs are on the wall. It looks like a poacher’s hut, a bunch of weasels, rabbits and stoats nailed to the wall.

Larks In Transit can be seen at Derby Arena on Thursday 6 June

“I wore glasses as well and I was physically utterly transformed, not just my face but my whole demeanour, the way I moved, everything. It was brilliant.

“People who came to see the show said to me in the bar afterwards ‘it was a shame you couldn’t be in it’. People I’d known for years didn’t know it was me. It was a compliment I suppose.”

As befits a man of his talents and popularity, Bill has a full diary after the UK tour. He will take Larks In Transit to Europe, Scandinavia and Asia until Christmas and in the new year is planning to tour Australia and New Zealand where he has built up a huge following.

His ambition is to write and perform in a film. He has been shooting a comedy drama, In The Long Run, created by Idris Elba for Sky, but feels his own film would be his legacy.

He is also looking into a project about “bird songs and the celebration of the outdoors as a great resource for our wellbeing”.

Most people, though, will hope he’ll continue with the quirky comedy and musicality which prompted the New York Times to describe his humour as “a treat for the funny bone, the brain and the ear”. www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 63

IMAGES WALK: Through Elton’s Gritstone Countryside 3miles (4,8km): easy/moderate walking. Two short climbs on easy gradients RECOMMENDED MAP: Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 scale, Outdoor Leisure map Sheet 2, The White Peak.

BUS SERVICES: Hulleys’ 172 runs at 38 minutes past the hour from Matlock, Monday to Saturday.

CAR PARKING: on the village main street – please make sure you do not interfere with private access.

T

alongside which the prehistoric Portway can still be traced. Slightly off route for this walk, nevertheless it is worthwhile making a diversion from the main path when passing below Robin Hood’s Stride rocks. A simple 14th century crucifix is carved on the wall above a narrow stone bench, the only passable comfort the hermit could expect.

he tiny upland village of Elton sits more or less on the junction of the White Peak limestone and a southern outlier of the outlying stretch of gritstone tacked on to the bottom of the Dark Peak. The village has a long history, as far back as the Iron Age when the first settlers built simple farmsteads on the surrounding moors. For possibly ceremonial reasons not yet discerned, they built stone circles on remote places like Harthill Moor and Stanton Moor; there is also a chambered cairn possibly once the burial place of a Neolithic chieftain which seems to have links with nearby Arbor Low, Derbyshire’s Stonehenge.

A gold cross found within a Saxon burial near Elton gives rise to the theory that Christianity came to the area as far back as AD700. Travellers along the ancient moorland tracks would stop and pray with the hermit who lived in simple conditions in a small cave beneath Cratcliffe Tor,

Norma Gent Derbyshire Artist

In keeping with the rest of the White Peakland dwellers, many of the locals found meagre employment delving for lead beneath the surrounding fields. While most of the profitable mines worked veins around nearby Winster, Elton’s operated on a far smaller scale. There is a local story of miners digging, contrary to mining law, beneath the local graveyard and almost undermining the church. Apart from hollows in surrounding fields, only the names of these old mines remain; names like the Portway Mine indicate its position next to the ancient way from

Pets, Portraits, Scenes, Still Life, Executive Caricatures, Victorian Life.

◆

SPECIAL DAY WORKSHOP Saturday 13th July 2019

WATERCOLOUR CLASSES

Tuesday mornings and evenings & every Thursday 9am - 10.45am St Thomas’s Community Centre Somercotes The Studio, No 2 The Galleries, New Lane, Alfreton.

01773 836907 www.normagent.co.uk

64 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

THE IDEAL GIFT

F

the river Trent to a sacred site on Mam Tor. The walk starts from the west end of Elton, close by the church. Using ancient tracks and field paths across the gritstone moors, it then moves in a northerly direction to woodland at the back of Harthill Moor Farm, before swinging roughly south east, past Robin Hood’s Stride to the site of the Portway Mine. Here a right turn links to an uphill climb across the village sports field, back into Elton.

During the earlier stages of the walk do not be surprised if you come across a flock of llamas; they and a group of Southern Beech lining a private drive are the property of the owner of nearby Rock Farm who has brought a little bit of Patagonia to the Peak District. There are also rare black fallow deer occasionally to be seen on Elton Moor across the dry valley to the north of Elton church.

rom private tuition to friendly classes and full day workshops, artist Norma Gent has something to make your creativity flourish. Also available from her studio at New Lane Galleries, Alfreton is a selection of artworks, all originals, for sale.

You can call or contact Norma on 01773 836907.

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

5

WALK

Issue 5 £2.99

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

E

lton’s church has an unusual history.

When it was rebuilt during Victorian times, the original Saxon font was thrown out and dumped in the churchyard along with builder’s rubble. Soon afterwards it found its way to nearby Youlgreave where it remains to this day with Elton eventually having to make-do with a copy.

1. The walk starts by the church at the west end of Elton village. Turn right along the track on the far side of the church and follow it for about 100 yards (91m). Go through a gate and into a field.

2. Follow the path for about a quarter of a mile downhill, in order to cross the dry shallow valley.

Go through a stone stile and on to a side road.

If the eponymous outlaw actually jumped the rather long distance between the twin towers, his feat has never been equalled. Locally the rocks are also known as Mock Beggar Hall, because in poor light the outcrop can look like a large house. It was that which attracted wandering beggars looking for somewhere to sleep for the night.

In the field to your left over the stone boundary wall, four enigmatic standing stones are all that remains of what was once a circle of nine.

10. Follow the rocky path to your left of Robin Hood’s Stride, downhill to the wooded lower reaches of Cratcliffe Rocks. Continue until the path joins the driveway to an attractive cottage.

Use the drive as far as the main road.

To Hulme End & Hartington

To Youlgreave Butterton

START

7. Follow the woodland track as it bears right within the wood, until it meets a minor road.

To Wetton Darfar Wetton Bridge Mill

dless

Cave Thors ELTON

old RM

9. Go left here and aiming ahead for the prominent rocks of Robin Hood’s Stride, aim towards a gap on their left.

anif

Buckfurlong Farm

ToTo Stanton Elton Moor Mooe

Stone Circle

THE BIKE SHOP DERBY

Ha

also in Nottingham

Farm

To Cromford

Glen Wragg Plumbing & Heating

Harthill

Not too hard to find but hard to beat – phone for directions Moor

To Ilam

To Winster

ps

m

R

Limestone Way

The Rin

Portway

8. Turn right, uphill along the road for about 350 yards. Look out for a fingerpost beside a field gate on your left.

Grindon

www.thebikeshopderby.co.uk

Stone Circle

ROBIN HOODS STRIDE

Cliff Farm

5. Look out for but do not go up to Harthill Moor Farm on your right. Cross a rough cart track in order to pass a ditch marked by a waymark signpost, and then go through the nearby gate.

100-102 Monk St (off Abbey St), Derby DE22 3QB Cliff Tel: 01332 382227 Farm

To Stanton Moor

Harthill Moor Farm

The large village across the wide valley on your left as you skirt Tomlinson Wood is Youlgreave, famous for its annual Well Dressing ceremony.

Derby’s largest bike shop Electric bike specialists

13. Just after passing a sports field, go left and through a gate to follow a track leading back to the village main street at the side of Elton church.

Stone Circle

4. Keep to the left of a prominent knoll and then skirt Tomlinson Wood by following its stone boundary wall to the left and then a line of telegraph poles.

6. Bear left climbing up the field and then climb over a stile in order to enter mixed woodland.

11. On reaching the main road, do not join it, but immediately turn right on to a narrower side lane. Follow this, uphill for a little over a quarter of a mile until it reaches a fairly large house on your left. Look for a signposted stile more or less opposite the house.

12. Turn right at the signpost and climb over a stile. Climb diagonally left, uphill across the sparsely wooded slope.

As you start to descend, a short path to the left leads through mature pines, to the foot of Cratcliffe Rocks where the hermit’s cave can

3. Cross the narrow road. Go through another stile and follow a field path uphill, for another quarter of a mile, crossing a farm access drive along the way.

be found. The 1549 records held at Haddon Hall speak of payment to ‘Ye harmytt’ for the supply of ten rabbits. Not only does this part of the walk follow part of the Portway, but also it is used for a section of the Limestone Way, the long distance route through the White Peak of Derbyshire.

52837

• Gas Servicing And Repairs • Gas Boilers Fitted

52837

Stone • Bath Out Shower In • Central Heating • All Plumbing Work To Waterhouses Circle & Ashbourne Road • Landlords Gas Safety Inspections • Bathrooms Supplied & Fitted

Telephone 01773 836460 or 07973 765869 ROBIN HOODS STRIDE

Smaller Jobs

• Outside Taps • Toilet or Tank Overflowing •New Tap Tops • New Pumps • Small Leaks • Drain Downs • New Radiators • New Cylinders

Telephone 01773 836873 or 07976 365233

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 65

Diary of Events diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Royal Centre Nottingham & Concert Hall 0115 989 5555 www.trch.co.uk 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 11-15 Mindgame 11-22 The Bodyguard 17-22 The Mousetrap - Discover why Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept people guessing for so long, becoming the longest running show of any kind in the history of theatre.

18 Live at Lunch: The Life & Times of Joseph Smedley 25 to July 6 Calendar Girls - The Musical 25 Conversations with Nick Cave 25 Jun 2019 27 Now Hear This 2019 - Fly Me To The Moon 27 The DriveTime Concert & Choir 2019 28 John Barrowman: Fabulous 29 What’s Love Got To Do With It? 30 Gladys Knight JULY Il Divo: Timeless 2 The B-52s 3 Kelly Jones 03 Jul 2019 4 Here Come The Boys 6-7 Dinosaur World Live 8-13 Club Tropicana 10 Lea Salonga 12 Nottingham Chamber Music Festival: Leonore Piano Trio 13-14 In The Night Garden Live 15-20 Avenue Q 15 Jul - 20 Jul 2019 More Info Book Now 02 Jul 2019 Buxton Opera House & PavilionArts Centre.

01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org JUNE Up to June 8th Rent 1 The Solid Gold Rock ‘N’ Roll Show 2 Woman to Woman: Judie Tzuke, Beverley Craven & Julia Fordham 3 Paul Merton’s Impro Chums 4 Kate Rew & Natasha Brooks An evening in conversation with Kate Rew 7 Royal Northern College of Music - Wyn Chan.

The Annual David and Rowena Hammond Piano Recital 7 Killer Queen 7 Buxton Buzz Comedy Club - June 8 Buxton Musical Society - Duruflé’s Requiem 8 Oysters 9 Take That: Greatest Hits Live 10 Joe Longthorne 11 Rome and Juliet 13 The Story Of Guitar Heroes 16 Buxton Musical Society. Concerto!

18 and October 8 Jimmy Carr 20-22 The Raft of the Medusa

66 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

21-22 In the Lap of the Gods 22 Kinder Rhapsody JULY 5 Buxton Festival Foundation Concert- New Voices 6 Mark Cocker & Friends with Jean McNeil & Tessa Boase 6 Cape Town Opera - Out Of Africa Haddon Hall, Bakewell Derby Live. Box Office 01332 255800 www.derbylive.co.uk 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 7 Genre Fluid with Dan Webber 7 Gary Reader Jazz Band 7 Sergei Podobedov 7 Iestyn Edwards: My Tutu went AWOL 8 Family Day A Day of Dragons - Celebrating author Cressida Cowell’s wonderful book series, How To Train Your Dragon, there will be music, activities and lots of fun – and there’ll be a huge Dragon puppet roaming around the Market Place. You’ll have the chance to create your own dragon-based arts and crafts.

8 Ey Up Mi Duck Race 8 The Magic of Motown 9 RAF Cosford Air Show 2019 9 Asda Foundation Derby Half Marathon 11-15 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 15 Spirit of Chellaston 16 Cream Tea in the Walled Garden 21 Voulez-Vous! - The Dinner Party 22 Silk Mill Festival 22 An Evening with Samantha Harvey 29-30 Race For Life and Pretty Muddy 29 The Dreamboys 30 Peter Pan - Junior Ensemble Auditions 30 200 Years of Farm to Plate 30 Oakfest JULY 6 Sam Callahan Live 7 The Derby Charity Retro, New and Classic Car Show. From classic cars, retro vehicles, modern classics and lifestyle from the twenties to present day.

Derby Theatre Box Office 01332 59 39 39 www.derbytheatre.co.uk JUNE 2 University of Derby Graduate Fashion Show 2019 This year’s Fashion Show, showcases more than ever before, a roster of passionate responses to cultural activity shaping fashion and other connected areas of cultural expression and creativity.

5 Open Mic 6 Derby Book Festival:

6 Derby Book Festival: Melvyn Bragg in conversation 7 Derwent Brass: Stage & Screen 8 Reginald D Hunter: Facing The Beast 9 Derby Youth Theatre Double Bill: A Thousand Reasons Not To Fly & Little Criminals 14 to 15 JTQ: the James Taylor Quartet 14 Celebrating Carnival 2019 15 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 18-22 Journeys of Destiny 21-23 Horrible Histories: Dreadful Deaf 26-28 Footloose - the Musical 26-28 Dancing Through Life: Caroline Green Dance & Theatre Arts JULY 5 Desert Islands Flicks 6 The Death Show 10-13 American Idiot Book early for this Sept 7-28 One Man, Two Guvnors. Richard Bean’s hilarious smash-hit comedy. Directed by Sarah Brigham, featuring a side-splitting mix of physical comedy, farce and live music. One Man, Two Guvnors is one great night out.

Nottingham Playhouse 0115 941 9419 www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk JUNE 7-22 One Night In Miami... Pay What You Can Performance 12 Amp Night 15-22 Refugee Week 18 Barbara Harrell-Bond: A life not ordinary 18-19 Pizza Shop Heroes 20 Electrolyte 24 An Evening with Gill Sims 27 We Can Time Travel 28-29 MADD College: Annual Showcase 2019 28 Boar 29 Inside 30 Comedy Summerslam 2019 JULY 4 Urban Explorers 19 6 Lights, Camera, Dance!

10 The Big Chris Barber Band - 70th Palace Theatre Mansfield www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre JUNE 4 Northern Ballet 7 Clare Sales School of Dance 11 Sing-a-Long-a Grease 13-14 Funky StudiosTheatre 15-16 Give My Regards To Broadway 18-19 Seussical The Musical 20 Lipstick On Your Collar 2019 21 Bon Jovi Forever 2019 22-23 Believe Academy Dance School 26-27 Dracula Rock Show 26 Sounds Like The Seekers JULY 5-6 Ripley & Alfreton Musical Theatre 9 Jasper Carrott’s Stand Up & Rock 11 The Drifters

THE 88TH

ASHOVER SHOW

SLACKS TRAVEL

14 AUGUST NESDAY 2019 D E W

Luxury coach travel with guaranteed seats & local boarding points 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

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

BRITISH COACHING 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 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 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 FROGMORE AND BUCKINGHAM PALACE . . . 10-11 Aug (HB) £197 EASTBOURNE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-16 Aug (HB) £329 PORTSMOUTH AND SOUTHSEA . . . . . . . . . . . 12-16 Aug (HB) £352 ISLE OF WIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-20 Aug (HB) £367 SCOTLAND EDINBURGH TATTOO . . . . . . . . . . 16-18 Aug (HB) £262 BEAUTIFUL NORTHUMBRIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-23 Aug (HB) £472 WINCHESTER STEAM AND GIN . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-29 Aug (HB) £401 CORNWALL PENZANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-30 Aug (HB) £557 SOUTHPORT COASTAL SPLENDOUR . . . . . . .02-06 Sept (HB) £406 LAKE DISTRICT STEAM AND CRUISE . . . . . . .02-06 Sept (HB) £416 MARY POPPINS (LONDON) . . . . . . . . . . . . 02-03 Mar 2020 (BB) £194

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*

Adult / OAP / Child

LLANDUDNO

SAT 29 JUN £27/£27/£13.50

HUNSTANTON & WELLS NEXT THE SEA

SAT 06 JUL £28/£28/£14

CHESTER OR CHESTER ZOO

SAT 13 JUL £22/£22/£11

TATTON PARK RHS SHOW*

SAT 20 JUL £48/£48/£24

BRIDLINGTON

SAT 27 JUL £24/£24/£12

HAREWOOD HOUSE*

SAT 03 AUG £34/£34/£28

TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION LONDON*

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 CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | | 67 67

Diary of Events diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Ashford Art Group Annual Show Saturday 15th June to Sunday 23rd June. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Art Show will be held in the War Memorial Institute throughout Welldressing Week at Ashford-in-the-Water, near Bakewell. Admission is free. Paintings in various media, cards, and sculptures are for sale.

Member artists will be welcoming visitors.

Derby A Cappella Last year, members of Derby A Cappella raised nearly £1000 for charities. Our chosen charity this year is Prostate Cancer U.K., so please help us to raise even more by booking us for an event. Please contact us at: www.derbyacappella.co.uk You can also view us at www.facebook.com/derbyacappella/ Spondon Historical Society Monday June 10th in Spondon Village Hall, Sitwell Street Spondon DE21 7FG at 7.30pm.

Gareth Howell will tell us about ‘Superstition and Science’. All are welcome, Visitors £4.00 and Members £2.50.

Little Chester Local History Group Thursday June 20th at 7.30.p.m. in Chester Green Community Centre, Old Chester Road, Derby, we shall be holding our AGM. Afterwards, we shall hear about the work of a charity which was established to deliver urgent medical supplies out of hours, between hospitals and other healthcare sites. Admission non-members £2 Everyone welcome. Tel. 01332 559615.

Little Chester Heritage Centre St. Paul’s Church, Mansfield Road, Derby - On Sunday June 4th 2-4 p.m. you can see our exhibition of Roman History and a special display re-telling the story of War Memorials including that at St. Paul’s, Chester Green. Free admission, refreshments available. Tel. 01332 363354.

Group visits by arrangement.

Allestree Flower Group Tuesday 18th June 2019 Flower Demonstration by Barbara Collins Entitled “Summer Gardens”. Time: 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm. Venue: The Evergreen Hall, Cornhill, Allestree Admission: Members £3.00. Non- members £7.00 For further details telephone 01332 558540.

Derby Book Festival Up to 8th June in venues across the city with over 90 events. Tickets are now on sale and you can book online at: www. derbybookfestival.co.uk This year’s Festival includes some of the most celebrated authors, poets, historians, politicians, illustrators, storytellers and musicians: Melvyn Bragg, Cressida Cowell, Patrick Gale, Paul Mason, Kamal, Ahmed, Dolly Alderton, Markus Zusak, Susan Calman and lots more.

Darley Abbey Historical Group Friday 21 June – ‘Magic’, by Bernie Petley. All

68 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

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. There will also be an event on 29 June – DAHG Exhibition with St Matthew’s Churchrelated memorabilia from our archives as part of their 200th Anniversary Celebrations.

Details to follow, but it will be an afternoon event open between 1pm and 4pm. For further information contact Maria Gibson on 01332 552837. To find out more about the Historical Group, take a look at their blog: darleyabbeyhistoricalgroup.wordpress.com Allestree Woodlands Theatre Saturday 6th July 2019 7:30pm The Tony Farrell Big Band Swings Into Summer. Join the Tony Farrell Big Band for their “Swings into Summer” concert. After a series of back to back sell-out concerts in Nottinghamshire, the band brings you the best of big band music from the vintage era all the way through to modern day hits. Allestree Woodlands School, Blenheim Drive, Allestree, Derby, DE22 2LW. Tickets in advance: £12 / Under 16s £6 (excl booking fee) Tickets on the door: £15 / Under 16s £8 ticketsource.co.uk/tonyfarrellbigband Annual village Carnival Heage Primary School Carnival Procession leaving the Windmill Public House, Park Road at 11.30. All Welcome to join in. Procession route, along Park Side, down Brook Street, up Tenter Lane arriving at school 12.00. On site there will be stalls, children’s entertainment, inflatables, exotic animal handling, professional freestyle footballer, dance shows, tug of war, Heage Band, cream teas, beer tent, gin bar and food.

Disabled parking only on site. Please walk if you can. Public transport: 6.2 / 6.3 bus route (White Hart stop).

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

6th. July 2019 - Another hands-on day.

Non-members are welcome to come along and try a new craft. Ever wanted to operate a woodturning lathe, carve a piece of wood etc.?

Well, here’s your chance - first visit free!

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.

Smalley Art Group Exhibition and Sale of Paintings Friday 21st June – Saturday 29th June 2019 – The Institute, 79 Main Road, Smalley, Derbyshire, DE7 6DS. Friday 21st June : 1pm – 5pm Monday 24th – Friday 28th: 1pm – 3pm Weekends: 10am – 5pm

West Hallam Open Gardens Sunday 23rd June 2019 Explore a range of eye catching gardens in the village. New gardens include a stunning one created in a former Christmas tree plantation.

Gardens will be open between 12 and 5pm.

On the day, programmes will be available from West Hallam Village Hall where teas and cakes will be served throughout the afternoon.

Entrance £3. Accompanied children under 12 free. Telephone Ann Ainsworth 0115 9303340 or Jean Lilley 0115 9303885 for more information. Alternatively email ainsworth.ann@btinternet.com or jean.genie@sky.com June/July events at Alstonefield 8 June Saturday, 8pm Charlie Dore with Julian Littman (of Steeleye Span) - Tickets £12 at WeGotTickets.com or call 01335 310322.

22 June Saturday, 8pm Reg Meuross with support: Sadie Jemmett - Tickets £12 at WeGotTickets.com or call 01335 310322.

13 July Saturday, 8pm Trials of Cato - Tickets £13 at WeGotTickets.com or call 01335 310322.

The Butterley Company & The Osmaston Connection A New Talk by Charles Wright on 7th June 2019 at St Martin’s Church Osmaston at 7pm. Tickets £8 including a glass of wine available from Natural Choice, Ashbourne, or by phone to Gerald Parker 01335 300 387 or at the door on the night. St. Martin’s Church, Osmaston near Ashbourne DE6 1LW. Folk And Acoustic Music Wednesday, 26 June 8pm. Live At The Lion Nancy Kerr & James Fagan. In Concert one of Britain’s top folk duos and BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Winners. The launch of their new Live CD. Lion Hotel, Bridge Street, Belper DE56 1AX. Tickets £14 from Ticket Hotline 01773 853428 Parking – Field Lane Car Park DE56 1DD. Local Summer Folk Festivals Nottingham Riverside Festival Big Top Folk Stage is on Sunday 4 August 1pm – 6pm. Featuring top names from the UK folk scene. Free admission with a modest parking fee. Full Details - Pr Promotions www.prpromotions@W3z.co.uk Dates For This Year’s Derby Folk Festival Are October 4 - 5 - 6 Full Details And Guest List On www.derbylive.co.uk PR Promotions www.prpromotions@w3

Oysters

Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton. Sat 8 Jun, 7:30pm A new dark comedy by Neil Salvage, with live music.

Johannes Brahms is attending a party to celebrate the first performance of his Violin Concerto – but his genius is overshadowed by his self-destructive ego. His friends are all there, but everyone is caught in a seething cauldron of passionate recriminations – and darkly hilarious outcomes. Everyone has their own agenda - the arthritic, embittered and ageing Clara Schumann from his past: jealous, unstable virtuoso Josef Joachim; pompous and waspish critic Hanslick - and gentle friend and disciple Von Herzogenberg.

As the evening progresses and emotions turn on a sixpence, the play moves to its extraordinary conclusion fuelled by turbulent feelings and farcical misunderstandings. Laughing through our tears we are continually challenged with the questions: Why art? - and what price do we pay for it?

The West End smash hit

STONES IN HIS POCKETS

By Marie Jones.

Royal Centre Nottingham. July 22-27 This wonderful comedy by Marie Jones has won numerous awards including both the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for best New Comedy, as well as three Tony nominations on Broadway.

When a major Hollywood film studio descends on a village in rural Ireland, the demand for extras from the local community is huge. As the story unfolds, just two talented actors brilliantly bring to life over fifteen extraordinary characters.

The Story Of Guitar Heroes

Buxton Opera House. Thursday 13 Jun, 7:30pm Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Hank Marvin, Brian May and Slash are just some of the outstanding guitar heroes you will have chance to experience in one amazing show! Whatever kind of music you listen to, from rock to pop, from folk to reggae, they all have one thing in common: the guitar.

Whether it’s electric or acoustic, there’s no other instrument that can boast that it’s been the catalyst for so many new ideas, and that it’s been at the heart of so many revolutions not only in music, but also in culture and society. The Story Of Guitar Heroes highlights many of the prolific artistes that have made this happen. It also offers the very latest in video screen technology to create a larger than life event.

One Night in Miami

Nottingham Playhouse. June 7-22 25 February 1964: Cassius Clay is crowned the new heavyweight champion of the world and celebrates with three of his closest friends – activist Malcolm X, American football icon Jim Brown and soul star Sam Cooke – in a downtown Miami motel room. That much we know is true. What follows is an imagined account of a fabled real-life event. Kemp Powers’ tough-talking, in-your-face drama speculates on what might have happened in that room that night. Over music, whiskey and two tubs of vanilla ice cream, the men wrangle with the change that’s gonna come. What will emerge are four legends that would define an era.

Horrible Histories

Derby Theatre. June 21-23 We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is deaf dead!

So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage as it delves into the dreadful, dangerous and deluded stories of the deaf ! From groovy Greeks to gorgeous Georgians, ruthless Romans to vile Victorians, come with us into this incredible world to discover the extraordinary people and amazing stories you simply won’t believe! Deaf or hearing, this bilingual production – in spoken English and British Sign Language – is a truly frightful treat for all the family!

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 69

Pollyanna Pickering ‘The Spirit of the Jaguar’

T

he work of the late Wildlife Artist Pollyanna Pickering will be celebrated in an exhibition to be staged in her private gallery at Brookvale House Oaker Matlock Derbyshire DE4 2JJ (AA Signposted) from 22nd – 30th June.

The ‘Spirit of the Jaguar’ exhibition will showcase previously unseen paintings inspired by her journeys into the little known Pantanal region of Brazil, where Pollyanna braved extremes of heat and humidity, plagues of mosquitoes and crocodile infested rivers to gather sketches and inspiration.

In 2017 Pollyanna fulfilled a long held dream – to visit Brazil, to search for jaguars. She faced a gruelling journey to get there –instead of flying direct from the UK, she and her daughter and business partner Anna-Louise had to travel from China, where they had been official delegates at the first International Art and Conservation Festival to be held in the country. China and Brazil are literally on the opposite sides of the world – so it

70 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

took 36 hours and four flights to arrive in the far flung town of Cuiaba – known as the gateway to the Pantanal. Once there Pollyanna faced a bonerattling journey over increasingly rickety wooden bridges to the end of the dusty Transpantaneira highway.

Extending from the Amazon, the Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland. Bigger than England, it stretches across two Brazilian states and into neighbouring Paraguay and Bolivia. A lattice of waterways swells and recedes with the seasons, giving way to vast savannahs and thick “gallery forests” lining the banks. The region remains wild and remote; most parts can only be accessed by tiring, bone-jangling drives along dirt tracks. Teeming with wildlife, the wetland remains a stronghold for the jaguar, whose original habitat has been reduced by almost 40 per cent across Central and South America.

The jaguar is the largest cat in the Americas. They can be found from the harsh deserts of southern Arizona into the lush rainforests of Central America, and from the Pantanal wetlands all the way down to northern Argentina. However in

40% of the jaguar’s original range the big cat has vanished completely, and almost everywhere they are practically impossible to spot – hunting at night, travelling almost invisibly through the dense rainforests. The Pantanal offers a unique opportunity to observe these impressive predators.

Here the jaguar is thriving, with an unusually high population, primarily due to the abundance of prey found in the wetlands – including capybara and deer – but also the world’s highest density of caiman (a crocodile-like reptile). The caiman here are numerous than in places along the banks of the rivers, they are almost piled up on top of one another. Jaguars are extremely good swimmers, and very comfortable in the water, and many of the jaguars in this area have become specialists in hunting caiman. This means they have also begun hunting during the daytime.

Every day during their stay in the region, Pollyanna and Anna-Louise would get up before dawn, to head out at first light in small motorboats. Within half an hour they would reach the point where three rivers converge, and a network of smaller tributaries spread out. They would spend around six hours on the water under the blistering sun – before heading back to base for a quick bite to eat and then returning to the boats for a further five hours until dusk fell. Often they would find themselves at the end of a narrow channel of water, with shoals of glittering piranha leaping out of the water alongside their boat. But this exhausting schedule was rewarded with numerous sightings of jaguars – on all except one of the boat journeys they spotted at least one of the big cats – and sometimes several in one session!

Because the jaguars are very habituated to the boats – they will see them most days along the river banks and know that they neither pose a threat or provide food – they simply ignore them, and continue with their daily lives. This meant Pollyanna could sketch them as they strolled along the banks, rested in the undergrowth – and on several occasions observed them swimming

“In 40% of the jaguar’s original range the big cat has vanished completely, and almost everywhere they are practically impossible to spot – hunting at night, travelling almost invisibly through the dense rainforests”

Pollyanna was able to fill her sketchbook with her impressions

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 71

“it was the most incredibly dramatic sight to witness as they both reared out of the water, fighting for their lives”

of the jaguars with their unusually large, round heads, short legs and stunning coats dotted with dark rosettes and spots. She was also lucky enough to be able to spend a couple of hours watching a female jaguar with her cub – and on one heart stopping occasion a huge male jaguar hunting and killing a caiman just a few feet from her boat. “This was an incredibly rare sighting” Anna-Louise told us “usually when jaguars hunt caiman it happens in the long growth of reeds, is over in seconds, and almost impossible to observe. But we were watching a male jaguar swimming in the open, when he suddenly came across an eight foot long caiman close to the bank. He began stalking through the shallower waters – but the caiman spotted him, and turned just as he pounced. This meant that instead of being able to grab the back of the reptiles neck and kill it instantly with one bite, as they usually do, the jaguar had to wrestle with the caiman for several minutes – which was the most incredibly dramatic sight to witness as they

72 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

both reared out of the water, fighting for their lives”.

Although the jaguars were the main focus of her visit, the Pantanal is teeming with other wildlife, and Pollyanna was able to fill her sketchbooks with images of beautiful hyacinth macaws, coati mundi, and otters, and all of the paintings inspired by her journey will be included in the Spirit of the Jaguar exhibition. She also returned to sketches made on previous visits to Brazil, Argentina and Belize to create new artwork featuring some of the smaller jungle cats – margays, ocelots and even black jaguars.

Anna-Louise said “Although Pollyanna travelled the world searching for wildlife, this expedition stood out as a highlight for her. I don’t think we ever saw such an abundance of wildlife in one place – from hyacinth macaws nesting outside the door of our lodge, to jaguars swimming alongside our boat.”

Two new limited edition prints will be released at the exhibition, one which has been exclusively co-signed by Pollyanna and the Founder of the Born Free Foundation Virginia McKenna OBE. Also on display throughout will be Pollyanna’s extensive ranges of books, greetings cards, fine art and limited edition prints, and a wide variety of gift ware featuring her work, including brand new card crafting kits as launched live on television! A sneak preview of next year’s charity Christmas cards will also be available. Pollyanna’s daughter Anna-Louise will be in the gallery throughout the exhibition and will be happy to chat to visitors about the artwork, and the inspiration found on their expeditions.

“Two new limited edition prints will be released at the exhibition, one which has been exclusively co-signed by Pollyanna and the Founder of the Born Free Foundation Virginia McKenna OBE The exhibition to be staged in her private gallery at Brookvale House, Oaker, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 2JJ (AA Signposted) from 22nd – 30th June.”

A minimum of Ten Percent of all sales throughout the exhibition will be donated to worldwide conservation projects through the Pollyanna Pickering Foundation.

Find full details and directions to the gallery at www.pollyannapickering.co.uk

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 73

Gallery & crafts S

ewing Corner is a friendly, specialist tailor.

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

N

EW James Brett cotton comes in ten different colours.

Available Now at ‘The Wool Lady’ 54a King Street Alfreton DE55 7DD 07715532791

H

igh Peak Bookstore and Café carries an extensive and eclectic range of fiction and non-fiction titles, most at less than half-price, plus greeting cards, gifts and more.

The café serves locally-roasted coffee, award-winning teas, delicious home-cooked food, snacks and treats, with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Dogs and muddy boots are welcome, and there’s a large, free car park. With regular events - including monthly Family Quiz nights and Board Games nights - and friendly, helpful staff, it really is a place for everyone.

SEWING CORNER

Lesley Linley Artist and Tutor

Margaret Ryder

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

74 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

One-day watercolour workshops and weekly classes lesleylinley1@gmail.com 07919 465222 www.lesleylinley.co.uk

Artist Lesley Linley

L

esley Linley moved away from Derbyshire in 2004 to the Isle of Skye, where she opened a studio/ gallery, teaching workshops and classes for tourists and locals. Lesley has now moved back to Derbyshire and is working on her first book about watercolour painting with Search Press.

Lesley is also running her own classes and workshops.

She is the featured artist at Cromford in May. You can contact Lesley by email Lesleylinley1@gmail.com or call on 07919465222.

Joy Clarke

SOFT FURISHINGS LTD

• Free no obligation measuring service • Professionally made to measure curtains and Blinds including Roman, Venetian, Roller and Vertical • Fitting service • Not only do we want to make your curtains or blinds we also offer you a great decorating service.

T: 01773530985 M: 07985160176 www.joyclarkesoftfurnishings.co.uk info@joyclarkesoftfurnishings.co.uk

Visit the Café, serving morning coffee, lunch & afternoon tea

Summer 2019 at Renishaw Hall & Gardens Summer events 2019:

TRADING INDEPENDENTLY FOR OVER 20 YEARS

JUNE 9th Vineyard Tour and Taste JUNE 12th Classic Car Show

For all your knitting and crocheting essentials KNIT & NATTER

JULY 21st Vineyard Tour and Taste AUGUST 4th Specialist Plant Fair AUGUST 18th Food & Craft Fair

www.facebook.com/cherryhillcrafts

Explore the acres of award-winning gardens, including: water features, formal terraces, specialist plants, a new display of roses, stunning woodland flowers.

54a King Street, Alfreton, DE55 7DD

Visit the historic hall: home to the Sitwell family for almost 400 years.

Public hall tours on Fridays throughout season & Fri, Sat, Sun in August. Group tours available all year.

10am-12pm every Tuesday & Wednesday.

ALFRETON’S ONLY WOOL SHOP

JUNE 30th Vineyard Tour and Taste

Between and behind Embers and Sanam

07715 532791

Gardens & Café open Wednesday to Sunday and BH Monday until October

Book browsing heaven, with a welcoming café, in the heart of the Peak

High Peak

Bookstore and Café Needles and Hooks

Knitting, crocheting, felting craft and other handheld textile crafts are the focus of every Monday afternoon in our bookshop. Bring your own projects, share ideas, and learn new skills in a friendly space.

We offer an excellent menu for lunch or snacks, plus superb coffee and award-winning teas, as well as a selection of refreshing cold drinks.

Open daily: 9.30am-5.30pm Sundays: 10.30am-5.00pm

(Café closes half-an-hour before the bookshop)

www.highpeakbookstore.co.uk brierlowbarbookstore@gmail.com Tel: 01298 71017 Ashbourne Road, Buxton. SK17 9PY

A Place for Everyone www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 75

A WORLD FULL OF PROMISE

SELECTED DEPARTURES FROM EAST MIDLANDS AIRPORT

Riviera Travel at Martins World Travel offers holiday experiences with a difference, from short breaks to epic 22-day adventures and luxury river cruises.

With carefully crafted itineraries, expert tour managers and unrivalled service, all Riviera Travel holidays offer a truly authentic experience.

W

hether it’s getting up close to spectacular waterfalls that tumble over huge lava cliffs in Iceland or learning the fascinating craft of pasta-making with the Pugliese, all holidays provided by Riviera Travel, the prime travel partner at Martins World Travel, promise new opportunities for discovery and adventure.

Enlightening visits to the must-see places as well as the hidden gems are always included, many with local experts whose eye-opening insights connect customers with the heart of the destination.

People who take holidays with Riviera Travel really do see and do so much more. Every day brings new opportunities for discovery – insightful guided tours and visits are included.

With a combined 77 years in business between them, both Martins World Travel and Riviera Travel take the greatest pride in the reputation they have built for outstanding service, quality and value. Delivering meaningful experiences that create lifelong memories is a passion for the whole team.

Expert insights Included are visits to a destination’s iconic highlights and to the equally intriguing gems off the beaten path. Ancient ruins, historic towns and unfamiliar landscapes all come to life in the company of local guides and tour managers.

The specialists are chosen not only for their wealth of knowledge, but also their flair for engaging audiences. It’s like travelling with a friend who happens to know the secrets of every destination.

Personalised experiences The travel experts have gone to great lengths to curate each holiday, so the very best of every chosen destination is enjoyed to the full. To enhance the experience, hand-picked highlights are offered, which can be added to the holiday

FIVE-STAR MS GEORGE ELIOT

Fully bonded by ABTA & ATOL for complete peace of mind, Riviera Travel has been awarded Which? Recommended Provider status for seven years, most recently for ‘River Cruises’ and ‘Escorted Tours’.

Thoughtful itineraries Every itinerary is meticulously crafted by a team of travel experts and provides fascinating perspectives on the culture, history, gastronomy, art and architecture of the places visited. And much like a well-told story, every detail is carefully considered, from the stops made to the routes taken.

76 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Award-Winning European River Cruises With Riviera Travel, customers can soak up the unique river cruising experience for a price less than could ever be imagined. When you’re on board a Riviera Travel river cruise ship, you’re staying in a floating, luxury boutique hotel.

The fine fleet of ships are truly world-class.

In 2019 they have introduced two brand-new five-star ships: MS George Eliot and MS William Wordsworth, and 2020 will see the addition of another all-suite five-star vessel, MS Geoffrey Chaucer.

Riviera Travel hospitality Perhaps the most distinguishing feature is the care shown to customers. A friendly team of dedicated staff are passionate about travel and genuinely care about making every holiday the best it can be. Every effort is made to get to know customers by name as well as their individual preferences by heart.

The Blue Danube river cruise, as an example, presents all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture-perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.

A Cruise to the heart of Europe gives opportunity to experience an incredible variety of medieval towns and imperial cities, from quintessential Bamberg to classical Vienna, with their wealth of cultural treasures, plus the world-famous scenery of the dramatic Rhine Gorge.

The Budapest to the Black Sea river cruise is an incredible journey through the Balkans, and explores the stunning sights of Kalocsa, Pecs and Belgrade with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress. Then it’s off to Pleven passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks before visiting Bucharest. Known as ‘little Paris’ this gem of a capital city captures the heart with its romantic buildings and tree-lined boulevards.

EXPERIENCE A HOLIDAY WITH A DIFFERENCE Many of our clients have discovered the holiday experience with a difference on our popular European tours, river cruises and worldwide tour itineraries booked with our prime holiday partner – Riviera Travel.

NEW! VIENNA, BOHEMIA & TREASURES OF THE DANUBE

2020

Worldwide River Cruises The wonderful experience of river cruising – with unique and original itineraries – is replicated worldwide by Riviera Travel. A ‘Journey on the Mekong’ or a ‘Wonders of the Nile’ river cruise, from Cairo to either Aswan or Luxor, are just a sample of the exciting options available.

Worldwide escorted tours Riviera Travel escorted tours offer a unique, thrilling and reassuringly uncomplicated way to travel for discerning people searching for ‘more than a holiday’. Why? Because they satisfy the desire to explore, to learn about places, to understand cultures and, above all, to live. But all the time safe in the knowledge that a team of experts, whose passion for travel is unrivalled, is always at hand and at service.

Customers can discover insights into the lives, histories and cultures of some of the world’s most exciting destinations. From exploring an ancient iconic landmark to visiting a hidden art gallery, from sampling delicacies in a local market to marvelling at Mother Nature’s power from the edge of an active volcano... all the while tantalised by the knowledge that tomorrow promises even more as the journey continues.

NOW ON SALE

The cruise director was charming and very efficient. All staff on board were friendly, polite and helpful; they couldn't do enough for us.

– Mrs Garlick AWARD-WINNING LUXURY RIVER CRUISES IN EUROPE 8 days from £1,099PP or 15 days from £1,999PP Regional flight departures / Eurostar with regional rail connections available*

Whether it’s A Grand Tour of China, Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer, Australia, New Zealand, California and the Golden West, Sri Lanka, India, Japan or Jerusalem, Galilee and the Dead Sea, the choice is seemingly endless and the range of experiences simply mind-boggling!

POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES 8 days from £699PP

DUBROVNIK, THE DALMATIAN COAST & MONTENEGRO 8 days from £899PP

Regional flight departures

Regional flight departures

LAKE GARDA, VENICE & VERONA 8 days from £719PP

COSTA RICA 13 days from £2,499PP

Regional flight departures

Return scheduled flights

THE BLUE DANUBE RIVER CRUISE 8 days from £1,099PP

BURGUNDY, THE RIVER RHÔNE & PROVENCE RIVER CRUISE 8 days from £1,299PP

Return direct scheduled flights

Return scheduled flights

SO MUCH INCLUDED Fascinating daily excursions with free time to explore Return flights or Eurostar travel with overseas transfers

Knowledgeable local guides Services of experienced tour managers and cruise directors Financial protection

For holidays with a difference, Riviera Travel offers the full package! To find out more, contact Martins World Travel in Chesterfield and Bolsover.

TO BOOK OR FOR MORE INFORMATION

01246 823763 / 220020 www.martins-world-travel.co.uk

Riviera Travel booking terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print. *On selected dates and cruises. Supplements may apply.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 77

A RELAXING EVENING AT THE

Marquis of Ormonde T he first thing that strikes you about the Marquis of Ormonde on Codnor Denby Lane, apart from the smart décor of the exterior, is the sleek steel and glass surround to the front terrace. This south facing alfresco seating area is decked out with matching solid wooden tables and benches making it an ideal spot to linger over a leisurely lunch or an evening drink watching the sun go down.

Evening temperature’s in the Spring soon drop and so, forgoing the temptation to soak up the last rays of the setting sun, Susan and myself made our way inside. The Marquis of Ormonde styles itself as a traditional pub and dining and part of the interior is clearly set aside as the traditional pub. The rest is a comfortable dining area; set out with tables for intimated dining and for large family groups. The latter in horseshoe shaped, booth style seating.

We were greeted at the bar by Keli who, after taking our drinks order, showed us to our table. The bar is well stocked with draught beers to suit most tastes, including the very popular Gamma Ray from Beavertown Brewery. I ordered a pint of Doom Bar and Susan ordered a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. The interior of the pub is decorated in a muted style that is homely and relaxing.

The walls are a mix of soft greys, the woodwork is a pale honey colour. The exposed brickwork of mottled terracotta has a warming effect that adds to the laidback atmosphere. Keli brought the drinks to our table and informed us of the current specials. We sipped our drinks and studied the menu although one of the specials had grabbed my attention: the Wagyu burger!

Along with the traditional starters of prawn cocktail and the chef ’s homemade soup there is a deep fried brie plus a starter of nachos with dips.

The latter two suitable for vegetarians. One of the specials that evening was an Ardennes Pâté. We chose the pâté. It was served with toasted stonebaked white baguette and accompanied by red onion chutney. The pâté was not too course and the rich taste and smooth texture contrasted with the sharp and slightly sweet onion chutney; with the toast and a small salad it was a perfect starter.

The mains menu has been well thought out with all the pub favourites putting in an appearance including scampi, lasagne, battered cod and hunter’s chicken; that’s a Chicken breast with

80 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

bacon bits in barbecue sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. There are vegetarian dishes and a children’s menu plus a grill section, with popular dishes such as an 8oz gammon steak and surf and turf. On the mains menu there are 3 types of steak: fillet, flat iron and sirloin, supplied by local butcher CN Wright of Codnor and a selection of homemade burgers.

Susan chose the beer battered cod, mushy peas and chips. The cod was a generous portion and coated in a light, crispy batter. The crunch of the golden batter gave way to white, succulent flakes of beautifully cooked cod.

Hand cut chips accompanied the fish along with a dish of mushy peas and a pot of tartare sauce. This was comfort food in comfortable surroundings.

The Wagyu burger had captured my attention and I was anxious to try it. Wagyu beef is highly prized and has a higher fat to meat ratio compared to traditional breeds. The burger was presented in a brioche bun topped with battered onion rings and served with hand cut chips and a salad. Nothing out of the ordinary until I took a bite. The burger had a fine and very tasty crisp outer coating that had formed during the grilling. The inside was divine: a distinctive beef flavour with a melt in the mouth texture. I cannot recall having a better burger.

The evening had been a relaxed and delicious affair. We had eaten our fill so didn’t try any of the desserts on offer; they ranged from traditional apple pie and chocolate brownie, to my favourite: lemon meringue pie.

As we waited for our taxi we chatted with owners Keli and Ed. They mentioned they are about to launch a new menu with some new signature dishes and plenty of old favourites. I understand that the chef is introducing, along with the other dishes, a new burger for the summer. I think that calls for a return visit.

Traditional Family Run Pub and Restaurant

Country Images on-line

www.CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk includes all the latest walks, our dining our reports, information from local galleries and not forgetting our Enhanced online editions of Country Images Magazine

Food &Drink

www.CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

@marquisoformonde

www.marquisoformonde.co.uk

introducing our new menu 12-2.30PM DINNER: 5-9PM SUNDAY: 12-4PM

LUNCH:

PEAK ALES VISITOR CENTRE (shop now open daily until 4pm)

1ST JUNE 9PM LIVE MUSIC - Uncle Salty

11:00 - 14:00 Brewery Tours

19:00 - 20:00 Peak Ales Big Fat ‘Pub Quiz’

14:00 - 19:00 Pizzas from Dough Truck Pizzas

21:00 - 22:30 Live music from Uncle Salty

LAunCHInG June 2019

Traditional Family Run Pub and Restaurant

01773 745222 codnor denby Lane dE5 9SP

The Barn Brewery, Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1EX

01246 583737 www.peakales.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 81

Coxbench Hall Residential Home www.coxbench-hall.co.uk

Family run home providing quality care since 1984 Permanent, short term and day care offered 1st day visit complimentary

Contact us

01332 880200 office@coxbench-hall.co.uk Alfreton Road, Coxbench, Derby DE21 5BB

82 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Get involved with the Care Home Open Day on June 28th

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”.

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 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

Ivonbrook and Darley Hall 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 both 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 dementia-friendly 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, and dining rooms leading out into our enclosed garden areas, at Ivonbrook a snug for people who like to read or listen to music. Both homes have Alexa show facilities.

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.

In the grounds at Darley Hall we have a marquee and large lawns for Summertime activities, for both Ivonbrook and Darley Hall residents. 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

Darley Hall Residential Care Home Two Dales, Park Lane, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 2FB P: 01629 735770 www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 83

No waiting lists.

We won’t keep you waiting.

At Nuffield Health Derby Hospital you don’t need private medical insurance, you can just pay for the treatment as and when you need it.

We’re open to everyone and our treatment prices are all-inclusive*, covering everything from your procedure through to recovery.

Call 01332 898 202 for further information.

Or visit: nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/derby *Initial consultation(s), diagnostic scans/tests and investigations required to establish a diagnosis are not part of your procedure price.

Why not come along to one of our FREE events?

Call 0845 603 4346

Nuffield Health Derby Hospital Debuts New Treatment to Help Men with the Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate.

B

enign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for an enlarged prostate.

Nuffield Health are proud to announce they are able to offer Rezūm.

Rezūm is a treatment for BPH which uses the stored thermal energy in water vapor (steam) to treat the extra prostate tissue that is causing symptoms such as frequency, urgency, irregular flow, weak stream, straining and getting up at night to urinate.

We asked Mr Sadmeet Singh, Consultant Urology Surgeon some common questions: Who is suitable for Rezūm treatment?

Men who need prostate surgery for urinary symptoms. We tend not to treat men who are already in retention but have

done successfully.

Does Rezūm treatment hurt?

The procedure is carried out under anaesthetic. Afterward patients might find passing water a little uncomfortable for a week or two. There is often a little bleeding when passing urine. This lasts for a variable amount of time – From a couple of days to a couple of weeks.

What is involved in Rezūm treatment?

You will come in on the day of surgery and usually go home later that day. You will be sent home with a catheter which will be removed 5 days later. You will also be given a few days of antibiotic treatment.

The procedure is carried out by passing an instrument down the Urethra (waterpipe). This allows a needle to be inserted into the prostate which is then

injected with steam. The number of times the needle is applied depends on the size of your prostate What kind of result can I expect and how long does it last?

You will enjoy the benefits of the treatment after about 3 months.

You should pass water with a better stream and find that you have to get up to pass water less frequently in the night.

For further information please visit www. nuffieldhealth.com To book an appointment to see Mr Singh for an initial consultation please call 0300 790 6190, lines open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00.

Nuffield Health Derby Hospital, Rykneld Road, Littleover, Derby, DE23 4SN.

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

Member of www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 85

Hints of Summer T

his Boho maxi dress from Superdry, is the perfect partner for any occasion, whether it is attending a casual BBQ or jetting off to sunnier climates. This dress oozes quality, with small finishing touches such as the lace detailing along the hem and shoulders for added texture and femininity and two discrete pockets. Available from Clarkes, 8-18 Grosvenor Road Ripley, and 30-32 King Street, Belper.

J

illian Hart Fashions specialise in wedding outfits and special occasion wear suitable for both the mother of the bride , as well as less formal outfits for the guests. The experienced and friendly staff at Jillian Hart will be able to help with co-ordinating hats, fascinators, shoes, bags and accessories. The lovely dress and jacket pictured is from Glitz with outfits from ÂŁ135.00 and available in sizes 12-24. For more information contact Jillian Hart Fashions, 40-44, Babington Lane, Derby. Telephone 01332 347647

86 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

QUE WOMEN

Summer Ranges Now Arriving

Summer Casual Wear Collection

40-44 Babington Lane Derby Tel: 01332 347647 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

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 87

Hints of Summer T

he Omega Speedmaster notoriously edged out the Rolex Cosmograph in a bid to become the official watch of NASA. While both timepieces offered a chronograph movement and a Tachymeter bezel, the Speedmaster was the chosen watch and would accompany astronauts on all six lunar missions, including the history-making first lunar landing during which Buzz Aldrin was wearing a Speedmaster. The Speedmaster is instantly recognizable, offering a stainless steel finish, black dial with a luminous display, and a slim black Tachymeter bezel. The vintage Omega 145.022 runs on a calibre 861 movement and features a nicely aged bezel and patina dial.

Part of the Pre-Owned collection at John Stevenson Jewellers.

2a Glumangate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S40 1TP 01246 270706 johnstevensonjewellers.com

L

ily & Me clothing has arrived at Pretty Swish on Grosvenor Road, Ripley. The new Collection features fresh Breton stripes, hand drawn floral prints in a beautiful colour palette of teal, blue, lemon and coral. A fully coordinated collection to help you find your perfect Summer wardrobe! Now available from Pretty Swish, 9 Grosvenor Road, Ripley, or browse online at www.prettyswish.co.uk

The long awaited

S

clothing collection has arrived.

Beautiful, unique prints.

Perfect day to evening wear.

Easy wearing clothes for women age 40+ Find your perfect Summer wardrobe!

Sizes 10 - 20

9 Grosvenor Road, Ripley (opposite Clarkes) or browse online at www.prettyswish.com 88 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

tylish new trousers you can trust, designed by Foil Clothing. The Trapeze 7/8 Pull on Trouser is a slim fit, cool trouser perfect for warm sunny days to just slip on and go, with their easy elasticated waistband. Made from premium cotton, Foil trousers are impeccably tailored in their premium, technical stretch cotton-rich fabric. Enjoy featherweight comfort and fluid drape season after season. Now available from Que Women, 13 Church Street, Ripley DE5 3BU.

Watch Servicing & Repairs for all fine Swiss made watches including

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

‘Regal Ice’ A perfect 7 carat azure blue aquamarine with fine diamonds and sapphire shoulder stones set in 18ct white gold.

Fit for a Princess…

Fine Jewellery

Celebrate life’s occasions with our in house designs

The pre-owned Rolex specialists Exquisite watches bought and sold

JEWELLERY REPAIRS | WATCH REPAIRS & BATTERIES REPLACED | UNWANTED JEWELLERY & GOLD PURCHASED

2A, GLUMANGATE CHESTERFIELD DERBYSHIRE S40 1TP TEL: 01246 270706 | INFO@JOHNSTEVENSONJEWELLERS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/JSJEWELLERS

Hints of Summer

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.

P

ositively tropical!

Onelife linen dress, £69 from This Boutique, 2 King Street in Belper.

Telephone 01773 824192 www.thisboutique.com

INSPIRING... IDYLLIC... IRRESISTIBLE.

C

outure@24 in Alfreton now stock wedding and cruise wear, and with clothes to suit all budgets you will be spoilt for choice. Couture@24 High Street, Alfreton.

THE IZAAK WALTON HOTEL

PICTURE PERFECT AND LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THE DOVEDALE VALLEY The Summertime is the perfect time to get out and visit the beautiful Dovedale Valley and what a setting to enjoy an afternoon tea!

Nestled within the spectacular Derbyshire Peaks, The Izaak Walton Hotel is a charming 17th Century building offering comfort, history and views of outstanding natural beauty. The hotel, named after the famous author of ‘The Complete Angler’, is privately owned and situated in an idyllic setting and with modern facilities offers a unique combination of warm hospitality, tranquillity and a traditional outlook whilst maintaining high levels of service.

The Izaak Walton Hotel is an AA 3 Star converted 17th Century Country House Hotel offering comfort, history and views of outstanding natural beauty, along with: 38 well-appointed bedrooms.

Fishing rights on the River Dove.

Fine Dining in our 2 AA Rosette awarded Haddon Restaurant.

Drinks, freshly prepared bar food and light snacks in our cosy Dovedale Bar, available throughout the day from 11am to 9pm, open all year round for both residents and non-residents.

We are fully licensed for Indoor & Outdoor Weddings and Civil Ceremonies and also cater for conferences, group bookings, parties, family gatherings and luncheons. reception@izaakwaltonhotel.com

01335 350981 www.izaakwaltonhotel.com Dovedale, Ilam, nr Ashbourne, DE6 2AY

90 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

The Hotel’s Dovedale Bar (open to both residents and nonresidents) is open daily, all year round, from 9am to 11pm (food served until 9pm and afternoon tea between 12pm and 4pm) and with the hotel being located just 5 minutes walk from the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones, is the perfect place to stop and rest those weary legs, whether it’s simply for a drink or a bite to eat with breakfasts, cream teas, light lunches, bar snacks and Sunday lunches available.

Hurst Opticians

Of�icial

Men In Black Sunglasses in stock from £125

Everyday clothing Special occasion wear Cruse & holiday Wear prices to suit all budgets This e whol r fo t fi t ou ding inclu £100 inator, c Fas oes s, sh dres ag B &

Shoes, fascinators & accessories M: 07732 344964 101 High Street Alfreton DE55 7DP

Frame price now includes Single Vision Lenses.

5 / 7 H i g h S t r e e t R i p l e y 01773 748112/744333 FREE Sight Tests for over 60s and children under NHS *Conditions apply, see in store for details

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 91

To Advertise in Trusted Traders 01773 830344

Amber Valley Driveways For a professional finish on: Blockpaving • Fencing Tarmac drives & paths laid Patios & slabbing • Excavation • Power jet cleaning for drives, patios, block paving etc.

Directory Call 01773 830344 for great series advertising prices including a free artwork design service

Advertise

Phone Brendan on

01773 857341 07521 516272

COLIN GREEN **ROOM REVIVAL**

From Papering a Wall to Total Room Refurbishment A Complete Service

• Decorating • Joinery, Coving, Dado etc • Laminate Flooring • Kitchen Fitting To discuss your requirements and for a free quotation

Tel 01773 605947 or Mobile 07779 291577

your business

here for just

£50 Advertise per month minimum 3 months your business Call

01773for 830344 here just

£50

per month minimum 3 months Call UPHOLSTERY

JOHN’S SOFA STUDIO RE-UPHOLSTERY 01773 830344 REPAIRS All work carried out by our own skilled craftsmen with over 20 years of experience.

CONTRACT PLANNING SERVICES Established 1979

RICHARD BOOTH UPHOLSTERY

*Re-Upholstery *Loose Covers *Bespoke *Wide selection of fabrics 1 New Road, Heage, Derbyshire

01773 853338

All Aspects Of Plastering Re-Skimming • Dry Lining • Rendering • Artex Removal •Small Repairs to Full Renovations

Patrick O’Neill Plastering Tel: 0780 701 6747

Clean Reliable Premier Service

Home visits a pleasure for a Free Quotation for re-upholstery or furniture repair.

Mobile: 07960 849642

Free Quotations

Tel: 01773 856082

JP PROPERTY MAINTENANCE We focus on providing all types of roofing repairs and maintenance to the highest quality.

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

01623 859851 • 01332 895023 07826519850 jppropertymaintenence12@gmail.com

• Why move? Extend your property and invest in your home • Plans drawn to your requirements • Plans and forms completed to council standards • Free estimates

Please call Phil Lingwood

on 01773 742936 or 07811810761

www.contract-planningservices.co.uk

out our Ask ab

F 20% OF doors

New life for Old Kitchens!

Just replace the doors and worktops It’s so easy! Not only will a Dream Doors makeover save you £1000s, but you will not have to suffer the stress, upheaval and mess that comes with a traditional refit.

DREAM DOORS NEW LIFE FOR OLD KITCHENS

Visit our Derbyshire showrooms or call to book your FREE survey and quote: 20 The Strand, Derby, DE1 1BE T: 01332 290600 197 Sheffield Road, Chesterfield, S41 7JQ T: 01246 888786 www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Central Heating Installations • Complete Energy saving systems – designed & installed • Boiler and Radiator swaps • Boiler servicing & landlord’s certificates • All aspects of plumbing undertaken Meadow Road, Ripley DE5 3EP Email: sales@markdentonltd.co.uk www.markdentonltd.co.uk

T: 01773 513208

We have over 20 years experience – you can be assured of quality work

All aspects of heating and plumbing including New Boilers • New Central Heating Service and Repairs • Landlord Certificates

209764

Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer Fully Insured Based in Duffield we are polite, friendly, clean and tidy

Please call 07974 314280 martynyoung.heating@sky.com www.martynyoungheating.com

92 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

DERBYSHIRE’S VERY BEST TRUSTED TRADERS WEATHERSEAL

Windows, Doors and Conservatories

Your 5 Star Piece of Mind…

• Full Insurance Backed Guarantee • Shoot- Bolt Locking With Push Button (Autolock Handles as Standard) • High Security Internal Glazing Bead as Standard • A Rated Energy Efficient Windows As Standard • Hook Bolt Door Locks as Standard All kinds of repairs undertaken. Replacement Handles,Hinges and Door Furniture Including Double Glazing Repairs and Misted Up Glass Units

No High Pressure Sales – Guaranteed • Each Quotation Attended by the Proprietor • Our own Fully Experienced Installers, No Sub-Contractors • 20 Years’ Experience in the Window Trade

Tel: 01773 747265 Mobile: 07967 419 504 Email: weatherseal01@live.co.uk

A Local Family Run Company

BLACK’S

COLLEDGE AERIALS

Family Business

Established 1965

PLUMBING AND GAS

Digital Aerials Freesat and Sky Multipoint

For a friendly, reliable service call Ian for all your plumbing needs including:

• Central heating installation & repair • Boiler servicing & replacement • Gas fires & cookers • Bathrooms & showers fitted • Landlord certificates

CALL 07870 583666

LOCAL TRUSTWORTHY INSTALLERS FREE QUOTES ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

‘530247’

T: 01773 742387 M: 07973 676799

Worcester Credit Installer 10 Years Warranty on all Worcester Boilers

DEREK STAPLETON

All types of work undertaken, Kitchen Work Top Replacements, Kitchens, Joinery & UPVC work undertaken Over 45 years’ experience (Time served City & Guilds) For free quotations please call

01773 836145 07800 928564

J H JOINERY SERVICES LTD

SUNSET WINDOWS

The Area’s Favourite Window Company

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

Tel:01773 513339

www.sunset-windows.co.uk

Over 25 years’ experience

All joinery work undertaken Bedrooms fitted UPVC windows doors & conservatories Loft Conversions Kitchen Installation Specialist For a free quotation call Justin on

T:01773 775166 M:07815 287092 www.jhjoineryservices.co.uk

Traditional and modern slating, re-bedding chimney pots and ridges, industrial and residential roof & Guttering cleaning, fibre glass roofs.

Groundwork Fencing, paths, patios. Flagstones, slabbing Building Repointing walls and chimneys, windows doors fascias & Soffit, extensions, conservatories.

Insurance work undertaken For your free quotation please call Darren Hutsby on

www.andrewrevillglazing.com AVVM0907 (Andrew Revill Q Advert).indd 1 AVVM0907 (Andrew Revill Q Advert).indd 1

07912 691958 01773 522927

13/02/2017 14:43 13/02/2017 14:43

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 93

Special Events at Crich Tramway Village 2019

If

you want to encourage the children to experience the great outdoors, Crich Tramway Village offers a great family day out, where you can step back in time. We also welcome your dog!

Historic trams run down a period street and out into the surrounding Derbyshire countryside, providing breathtaking views.

Classic Motorcycle Day on Sunday 7th July is back by popular demand, after over 400 classic motorcycles exhibited in 2018. You’ll see a wide range of makes and eras of motorcycles, many lovingly restored by their owners. Enter yours, and you could win a prize for Best in Show!

Experience the fascinating Woodland Walk & Sculpture Trail, visit the Red Lion Pub and Tearooms, and explore the interesting Exhibitions.

Crime at Crich on Sunday 21st July is a ‘who done it’ where you need to solve the clues to find the culprit who committed the ‘crime’.

The Workshop Viewing Gallery invites you to see our expert craftsmen maintain and refurbish the collection of vintage trams.

Build in Bricks running from Thursday 25th to Wednesday 31st July will bring plenty of fun for the family with everyone’s favourite building bricks – not to be missed!

There is a great programme of events for the 2019 season and the summer brings a variety of events with something for everyone.

If you loved the 1950s and 60s, Vintage Weekend on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June brings music and activities from these decades to Crich.

Visit the website for the full list of special events throughout the season. Full priced tickets offer free return within 12 months (subject to opening dates and excluding World War II events).

Horse tram days on Sunday 30th June and Monday 15th July will feature Joseph the Shire horse pulling the Sheffield 15 horse tram built in 1874. Rides on the horse tram cost £1.00 per person, and you’ll experience a real step back in time.

Open daily at 10am until Sunday 3rd November 2019. For more details and closing times Tel: 01773 854321 or visit www.tramway.co.uk.

IMAGES CROSSWORD

WIN A £10 W H Smith voucher 2

1

3

4

5

9

10

6

7

Just find the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire village in the crossword below and send the place name on a postcard to: Crossword Comp.

Country Images, Unit 5, Office Village, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbys DE55 7FQ. Or to competitions@imagespublishing.co.uk Entries to reach us by June 18th 2019First correct entry drawn wins the prize. Terms and conditions apply.

8

Across: 1 Vice 4 Native of Victoria 9 Give in 10 Rice 12 Incinerated 13 Disquiet 16 Not out 18 Enclosure 19 Washington? 20 Peep! 21 Awesome 23 Egyptian god 24 Turn up 27 Drink 28 South Africa in short 29 Opposite to 31 Cell 34 Electrical unit 35 Singular 36 Absolutely 39 Organised attack 40 Pry 42 Horn 44 Sea 46 Carry out 47 Level 48 Emit 49 Father

11

12 13

14

15

16

18 21

17

19

22

23

20 24

25

26

27 29

30

28 31

32

34 36

37

35

38

39

40 42

33

43

41

44

45

Last months village: Smalley

46 47

Down: 1 Clothing 2 Yellowish 3 Below a bishop 5 Course of study 6 Throw out 7 Entrance to 8 A fool 11 House of lodging 14 Draw 15 Rubber rings!

17 Accommodation 20 British Telecom 22 Proper name for a fox 25 Favourite 26 Lewis Hamilton?

29 Fawn upon 30 Games 32 Fixes the roof 33 Ant 37 Name inscription 38 Long grass 41 Connects two Oxen 43 Steal 45 From a pen

48

94 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

49

Last months winner: Jim Corby, Codnor

two-liter four-cylinder engine is back on the winners’ podium.

The abbreviation TFSI stands for turbocharging and direct injection.

The brand started its downsizing strategy, i.e. replacing displacement with charging, with the first 2.0 TFSI, the A3 Sportback drive.

International Engine of the Year Awards

A

udi’s 2.0 TFSI engine wins in its class The 2.0 TFSI from Audi has won the “International Engine of the Year” award in the category of engines with between 150 and 250 metric horsepower. An international panel of experts comprising 70 automotive journalists voted the four-cylinder gasoline engine the winner of its class.

In its latest version, the four-cylinder engine presents a special efficiency technology from Audi: What is known as the B-cycle combustion process is designed specifically for partial load, which is the predominating mode of operation. With a moderate driving style, the 2.0 TFSI achieves the efficiency of a small-displacement engine, while offering the dynamics of a large engine at a sporty pace.

The 2.0 TFSI currently drives numerous Audi models from ten product lines and its power spectrum extends up to 180 kW (245 metric horsepower). At the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, Audi presented the Q5 as a plug-in hybrid variant, where the 2.0 TFSI works in conjunction with a powerful electric motor. The four-cylinder engine is also used in the g-tron models in the medium-size class.

NEED YOUR AIR CON CHECKING AND RE-GASSING?

According to the jury, the four-cylinder engine is “one of the most flexible and versatile engines ever to be developed—in short, it can do it all.”

Hans-Joachim Rothenpieler, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development, explains this strength: “We are delighted to receive this award, because it acknowledges the versatility of the 2.0 TFSI. We use it not only as a pure gasoline engine, but also as a plug-in hybrid drive and for operation with natural gas or Audi e-gas.”

✔ • MOT for cars and bikes ✔ • Air-con service & repairs ✔ ✔ • All makes and models • Servicing and repairs • Fuel injection engineers ✔ • French Car specialists since 1994 ✔

automotive Ltd

Rothenpieler is particularly proud of the success record of the TFSI technology. Between 2005 and 2009, Audi won the two-liter category with the 2.0 TFSI, and between 2010 and 2018, the company won in the larger class with the five-cylinder 2.5 TFSI. Following the switch from displacement-based to horsepower-based categories in 2019, the

Tel: 01773 748333

19 Wellington Street, Ripley. book on-line at www.cxauto.co.uk

DERBYSHIRE’S NO DERBYSHIRE’S NO1 1 INDEPENDENT LAND INDEPENDENT LANDROVER ROVERCENTRE CENTRE

Quality service without compromise.

Are you paying too much R TOO MUCH FO for yourELand AYINGServicing?

YOU PRover G?

AR VER SERVICIN YOUR LANDRO

der

un whilstunder Why not try DLS? We can service your ice vehicle even whilst le even ur vehic e can serv yo ality service S! Wwarranty. u aaqu yo g Land Rover manufacturer’s Giving you quality vin Gi y.

Why not try DL nt facturer’s warra to main dealer prices. ver manucompared service with great to main dealer prices.

Land Rosavings vings compared with great sa

promise. ice without com

rv DLS - Quality se

DLS All servicing is carried out to the original manufacturer’s schedules DLS

All servicing is carried out to the original

Affordable Affordable and competitive on all service and repair Air Conditioning Service work, often with large savings Full and aircon labour and diagnostics on parts pricesservice available Affordable quoted by the Main Dealer

Full Workingschedules Facilities manufacturer’s Affordable and competitive on all Service and Modern, fully equipped 6 Full Working Facilities Repair work,Available often with large savings on parts an bay workshop employing fully Courtesy Cars Modern fully equipped 6 bay workshop employing prices quoted by theus Main Dealer While labour your vehicle is with skilled Land Rover trained fully skilled Land Rover trained technicians Courtesy Cars technicians you could take up Available the option Computer Diagnostics yourcourtesy vehicle is with us you could take up of oneWhile of our cars Autologic option of one our courtesy cars so you will Computer Diagnostics so youthewill never beof without Diagnostic Technology never(conditions be without transport (conditions apply) Autologic Diagnostic transport apply) Technology

WATER LANE • WIRKSWORTH • MATLOCK • DERBYSHIRE • DE4 4AA

Air Conditioning Service Full air-con and diagnostic service available

CALL OUR SERVICE TEAM ON (01629) 822185 Web: DLS-UK.co.uk Email: sales@DLS-UK.co.uk

All-new Ford Focus ST

makes wagon body style debut

BRENTWOOD, Essex, May 16, 2019 – Ford today revealed the first images of the all-new Focus ST in wagon body style.

T

he Focus ST – developed by Ford Performance – goes on sale in the summer powered by a free-revving 280PS 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with sixspeed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission; or 190PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission.

Advanced Focus ST sports technologies, including an electronic limited-slip differential, rev-matching and selectable Drive Modes, help blend track-day performance with everyday usability.

The ST Wagon is priced from £30,595 for the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel variant, and from £33,095 for the 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol.

The declared fuel/energy consumptions, CO2 emissions and electric range are measured according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulations (EC) 715/2007 and (EC) 692/2008 as last amended. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are specified for a vehicle variant and not for a single car. The applied standard test procedure enables comparison between different vehicle types and different manufacturers. In addition to the fuelefficiency of a car, driving behaviour as well as other nontechnical factors play a role in determining a car’s fuel/energy consumption, CO2 emissions and electric range. CO2 is the main greenhouse gas responsible for global warming.

Since 1 September 2017, certain new vehicles are being type-approved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) according to (EU) 2017/1151 as last amended, which is a new, more realistic test procedure

96 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Since 1 September 2018 the WLTP has begun replacing the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which is the outgoing test procedure. During NEDC Phase-out, WLTP fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are being correlated back to NEDC. There will be some variance to the previous fuel economy and emissions as some elements of the tests have altered i.e., the same car might have different fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan and employs approximately 196,000 people worldwide. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of cars, trucks, SUVs and electrified vehicles. It also provides financial services and is expanding research in to electrification and autonomous vehicles.

The first Ford cars were shipped to Europe in 1903 – the same year Ford Motor Company was founded. European production started in 1911. Currently, Ford of Europe is responsible for producing, selling and servicing Ford brand vehicles in 50 individual markets and employs approximately 49,000 employees at its wholly owned facilities and approximately 63,000 people when joint ventures and unconsolidated businesses are included. In addition to Ford Motor Credit Company, Ford Europe operations include Ford Customer Service Division and 23 manufacturing facilities (16 wholly owned or consolidated joint venture facilities and seven unconsolidated joint venture facilities).

-SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY-

UP TO £3,200 DEPOSIT ALLOWANCE & 0% APR

ON SELECTED NEW VEHICLES AT YOUR LOCAL TC.HARRISON FORD

FORD ECOSPORT ST-LINE

£195 FROM

ADVANCE PAYMENT *

FULLY INSURED, FULLY MAINTAINED, FULL BREAKDOWN, TWO NAMED DRIVERS.

ON THE MOTABILITY SCHEME AT TCH 0333 240 7194

Stadium View, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8JH

For more information visit tch.co.uk

Top three image shown are a Fiesta Vignale 5 Door 1.0T 100PS Petrol Manual. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 40.4 (7.0).*CO2 emissions: 105g/km. Kuga ST-Line X 1.5L 120PS Manual Diesel FWD. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 45.6 (6.2). *CO2 emissions: 137g/km. All-New Focus Active 1.0T 125PS Petrol Manual with optional LED Headlights and Convenience Pack. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 44.6 (6.4). *CO2 emissions: 104g/km. Figures shown are 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, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted, variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Please contact your local T.C.Harrison Ford dealership for more details. Retail Customers Only. Finance is with Ford Credit, subject to status and available to over 18’s only; guarantees and indemnities may be required. A finance facility fee (where applicable) is an additional charge for the supply of credit and is payable with the first instalment. You will not own the vehicle until all repayments have been made. Quotations and written details are available on request. Vehicle needs to ordered/contracted before 31st May. £3,200 Deposit Allowance is avaialbe on Ford Kuga (pre-2019.25MY) Diesel Titanium, Titanium X Edition, ST-Line, ST-Line X Edition and Vignale models only, other deposit allowance vary by vehicle. *Bottom Image shown is an EcoSport ST-Line 1.0L 125PS Petrol Manual with optional 18” Alloy Wheels and Privacy Glass. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 40.9 (6.9). *CO2 emissions: 125g/km.

Figures shown are 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, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. £45 Advance Payment available only on New Ford Focus Zetec. This programme is subject to the standard conditions of the Motability Scheme hire agreement. Full written details and quotations available on request from a Ford Authorised participating Dealer of Motability Operations Limited. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations. Motability Operations Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference number 735390. 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 and 31st May 2019.

Data correct as of 1st April 2019, are subject to availability and may change.

T.C.Harrison Group Limited, Milford House, Mill Street, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1HH acts as a credit broker in relation to financial products and not a lender. We work with a number of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchase. We are only able to offer finance products from these providers who may reward us for introducing you to them. T. C. Harrison Group Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

New Ercol Studio Living | Dining | Sleeping | Kitchens | Flooring | Accessories | CafĂŠ Visit our showroom at Hunters, Babington Lane, Derby. DE1 1SY t. 01332 349285 huntersfurniture.co.uk Instagram & Facebook @huntersofderby

Support in your own home, a realistic alternative

Live-in care

If you, or someone you know, would beneďŹ t from our service, either live-in, companionship or daily visits, (multiple daily visits only available within a certain radius of DE56 1AX) please get in touch with our friendly and professional team.

01773 880055

Bluebird Care, 6 Bridge Street, Belper DE56 1AX @BluebirdCareAmberValley

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/amber-valley www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/derbyshire-dales