All Things Local - Belper Edition - August/September 2025

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Winner’s Corner Contents

CONGRATULATIONS

Kate Munyard from Kilburn who has won Sunday Lunch for 2 people at The Cow at Dalbury Lees in the Prize Crossword AND a bottle of Champagne in the Sudoku competition! We receive a lot of entries for both competitions, and this is the first time that the same person’s name has been drawn as a double winner. Well done Kate!

WELCOME LETTER

Hello readers

Welcome to the August/September issue of All Things Local. Last time we wrote, just as the June/July issue was going to print, it was a dreary, overcast day and we were hoping that summer was going to make an appearance … well, our wish has come true! As we write this, we’re basking in 30-degree temperatures, amid a summer heatwave.

Hopefully everyone’s enjoying the sunny weather, although we appreciate that very high temperatures can make life a bit difficult and uncomfortable at times, especially for older people, babies and pets. If you’re out and about enjoying the sun, make sure you stay sun-safe with plenty of suncream and a hat, and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

Of course, in the warm weather it’s very tempting to sit outside and enjoy a different kind of refreshing drink … either in your own garden or one of the many pub gardens in the local area. As always, our ‘Word on Wine’ and ‘Beer’ articles offer expert advice on some tempting tipples. Turn to page 19 to read recommendations from local wine and beer experts, David Savidge and Sean Mckeown. If Champagne is your drink of choice, you could win a bottle in our Champagne Sudoku competition on page 23 or, in our Prize Crossword competition on page 6, there’s an opportunity to win a delicious 3-course meal at Anila Indian restaurant in Ambergate! Don’t forget to get your

entries in by 13th August to be in with a chance of winning.

While the good weather’s here it’s nice to take the opportunity to get out and about. This issue’s walk takes us off into the Peak District to the Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge – a perfect spot for paddling and a great way to cool off in the warm weather.

The shallow waters and flat rocks make the stream quite accessible for children (obviously with close supervision). It’s a really beautiful area and a popular Derbyshire beauty spot to explore. The walk can be found on page 24 and has been kindly supplied by visitpeakdistrict.com.

Don’t forget to pack a towel if you’re planning to paddle!

Whatever you’re up to over the next couple of months, we hope you have a lovely time and enjoy the rest of the summer (come rain or shine!). We’ll be back just as Autumn arrives, with our October/November issue.

With best wishes,

Team ATL

Pictured l to r: Karyn Milner (Publisher/Editor), Ruth Brown (Advertising Sales), Helen Young (Editorial Copywriter & Coordinator)

Advertising Enquiries: Ruth Brown

E: ruth@allthingslocal.co.uk

T: 07545 261034

W: www.allthingslocal.co.uk

AllThingsLocalMagazines

Your old flooring uplifted and disposed of if necessary

Carpets and hard floors

We had carpets fitted by Nigel and Ryan and hard floor fitted by Richard and Harry. We were delighted with every aspect of our purchase. The staff at the showrooms were really friendly, helpful and patient. The fitters were punctual, polite, professional and did a meticulous job for us. They were exceptionally skilled, tidy and considerate. We can’t recommend them highly enough. Thanks so much to the whole team.

Customer in Derbyshire Posted on 11/02/2025, work completed 10/02/2025

Shacklocks Solicitors

Legal Matters:

Legal Matters: Trusts

The Absent Freeholder

repairs and maintenance of the building, and enforcing the terms of the lease.

70 years later the trust is still providing that accommodation.

You own a leasehold property and begin to notice that the building is not looking particularly well cared for.

Legal Matters: Breakdown of a Marriage or Civil Partnership: Dividing the Pensions

In each edition legal advisors from Shacklocks deal with important legal topics. This month Marion Vesey (pictured) invites us to think about making a decision that will benefit future generations.

Cassandra Worton, Partner with Shacklocks LLP and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, explains some of the mystery behind Trusts.

The difficulty is that the CETV for one scheme might produce completely different pension benefits to the CETV in another scheme. You might share a particular pension equally but the reality in terms of what you might each receive in your pocket could be significantly different. The court is generally concerned about the effect of a pension sharing order, especially when people might have been together for a long time.

So having an absent Freeholder can be a real problem. For example, you may want to extend the term of your lease; you may want to buy or sell your property; you may want to purchase the freehold (typically referred to as ‘enfranchisement’).

Making a Will is a serious business. It is a time which gives many people cause to stop and think about how they want to be remembered when they are gone.

The Freeholder’s demands for service charge and ground rent have stopped.

Trusts are a very well established part of English law, but are generally not available in many European countries. So what are they, and how did they come about?

You have a problem you need to resolve with the Freeholder.

When a marriage or a civil partnership breaks down, consideration needs to be given to how the assets of the union are to be divided. Assets can include the home, savings, cars and other valuables but also pensions.

You try to contact the Freeholder. Emails and telephone calls go unanswered. You discover that the Freeholder is no longer contactable.

The CETV provided by a pension scheme might not be a true representation of the value of that pension. In some cases, especially some public sector pensions, the CETV provided can significantly understate the true worth of a pension.

Another of the trusts we look after was set up by a client who wanted to help people with particular medical conditions. Her kindness has enabled her trustees to provide financial support to a gifted young musician who has experienced a number of health issues that have interfered with her education, to enable that child to be educated in the most appropriate environment.

Other problematical areas can arise with the repair and maintenance of shared communal areas; repair and maintenance of the building; collection of Ground Rent and Service Charges; adequate insurance for the building; and resolving disputes between Leaseholders.

Put as simply as possible, a Trust will arise where a person transfers property or assets into the name of their chosen Trustees, for the Trustees to hold that property or those assets for certain purposes and on certain terms, for the benefit of specific persons or a group of people.

Indeed the pensions can be the most valuable asset and care has to be exercised in how they are treated and how they are divided. Usually, pensions are dealt with in one of the following ways:

The prospect of not having to pay Ground Rent and Service Charge might be appealing to some, but what is the downside?

What is an Absent Freeholder?

Many people are attracted by the idea of doing something to help others less fortunate than themselves after they pass away, particularly if their family are adequately provided for or if they have no close family. Whilst some still like the idea of supporting major national charities, there are many who prefer to benefit more local causes or causes close to their heart, possibly where they have had a personal involvement or received support during their lifetime.

1. Pension sharing. This is where one pension is divided to create essentially two pensions, a reduced pension for the member of the pension scheme and a new pension for the other person.

An ‘Absent Freeholder’ situation arises where a leaseholder is unable to locate or identify the Freeholder.

2. Pension attachment. This is where a court makes an order directing that some of the pension payable to one person is paid to the other.

Situations where this could occur

To better understand Trusts we can take a look back to the times of the Crusades. Trusts first began to take shape in medieval England when men were travelling abroad to join the Crusades. They would transfer their property to a trusted friend for them to look after, manage and protect until their return, which may not be for many years. The moral obligation imposed on the friend is one of the earliest forms of a Trust, which over the centuries has become embedded in our legal system.

A Charitable Trust can be set up either during your lifetime with savings and investments built up already, or alternatively through a specially prepared Will that will only take effect following your death and will therefore not deprive you of capital or income during your lifetime.

3. Offsetting. This is where the pensions are left untouched but the share of other assets are adjusted to take into account the value of pensions.

There can be many reasons for this but typically this is when the original Freeholder has died (if an individual), moved address, or is dissolved or becomes inactive (if a company).

This situation is made worse when the Freehold title is not registered with HM Land Registry.

Something that our team will discuss with clients in this situation is the idea of setting up their own charitable trust which can continue to provide support for charitable causes of their choosing long after they have passed away. Creating your own charity means that your trustees can provide support to those who need help most. There can be a great sense of satisfaction in knowing that your trustees will carry out your wishes after you have gone and that your name will be associated with such good deeds even after you are no longer around.

Why is this a problem?

Before you even think about dealing with pensions you need to know their value. The starting point is often the provision of a Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (“CETV”). This needs to be provided in all cases. Whilst the CETV is important, further information is often needed in terms of benefit statements so that the full terms of the pension can be considered.

Leases by their nature involve a Freeholder and a Leaseholder.

Most leases will require the Freeholder to be responsible for certain things, such as insurance,

If we fast forward to the present day, the reasons to use a Trust are broadly the same as in medieval England; there are different types of Trusts and there are many different types of situations which may create Trusts. Trusts may be set up in a lifetime, or through a Will following death. Trusts may provide circumstances in which beneficiaries will become absolutely entitled to the Trust Fund, or they may provide flexibility by allowing for discretion to be exercised as to who should benefit.

It is important to understand the difference between different pension types. Some pensions are pots of money which can sometimes be converted into cash (subject to tax). Other pensions simply give a person the right to receive an income from a particular date until their death.

At Shacklocks we have set up a number of charitable trusts over the 150 years or so we have been in business and we still look after those trusts today. One of the charitable trusts we look after, for example, was established by a will in the 1940’s to provide accommodation for elderly residents.

There are obviously many different pension schemes in existence. Each will probably be different to the next. It is very important that you receive the right advice and that the true value of each pension is understood and shared fairly. Often it is necessary to involve other experts, for example pension actuaries, who will produce comprehensive reports to assist in the division of pension assets. The information given above is necessarily general and cannot be relied upon in any particular case.

Many lenders will not be comfortable lending against leasehold properties with an absent Freeholder.

Understanding the problem, the possible solutions, and how to navigate your way to achieve a satisfactory outcome, is essential to avoid wasted time, costs and money.

Whilst the idea that someone travelling abroad may leave their property in Trust to be managed whilst they are away is still very useful today, Trusts may be used closer to home to protect and manage property or money in other circumstances too. For example, a parent may set up a Trust in their lifetime or through their Will for a child, or for an adult son or daughter who is not able to manage their own affairs perhaps because of disability or mental capacity issues. A married person may provide in their Will for their surviving spouse to have a life interest in their half of the family home thereby protecting that half of the home for the next generation. A Trust may be used where someone receives damages as a result of a personal injury or clinical negligence claim. A couple may set up a Trust to keep their family assets in the bloodline in case of changes in family and marital arrangements which may take the assets out of the family, or someone with a second family may set up a Trust to make special arrangements for their two families. A person with Charitable intentions may set up a Trust in their lifetime or on death for the benefit of those who they particularly wish to help in the future, and by doing so leave a lasting legacy: many of the charities we see now may have been set up in this way. These are all types of Trust.

Whether you are buying, selling or simply want to resolve an ongoing issue regarding the management of the building, obtaining the correct advice is critical.

At Shacklocks LLP we are committed to helping you to understand the true worth of pensions and to help you receive a fair financial settlement which will meet your needs. Shacklocks LLP family law team are currently offering all new clients an initial free half hour appointment. To find out more, contact Ben Stubbins and his team on 01773 822333 or email bens@shacklocks.co.uk.

Our team at Shacklocks have a particular speciality in preparing arrangements of this kind and also of acting as professional trustees to enable wishes to be fulfilled and instructions to be followed.

If you are thinking of supporting charities through your Will or during your lifetime with a lump sum, why not talk to us about the different ways in which we can help you benefit those good causes, and how to make the most of the tax rules that enable a charitable cause to benefit.

Shacklocks LLP have been dealing with Trusts for many years, though not quite as far back as the Crusades! If you would like to know more about Trusts and how they may be of help in your circumstances contact Cassandra Worton or Richard Farmer at Shacklocks LLP on 01773 822333 or 01623 626141 or email cassandraw@shacklocks.co.uk or richardf@shacklocks.co.uk.

To find out how Shacklocks can help you please contact William James, Jordanna Smedley or Christalla Betts in our Property team at Shacklocks LLP on 01773 822333 (Belper), 01332 559281 (Allestree), or 01623 626141 (Mansfield) or e-mail conveyancingservices@ shacklocks.co.uk

Call us at Shacklocks to talk about how we can help you to help your favourite local causes.

Ben Stubbins

The information in this article is for general guidance only and advice must be obtained for your particular circumstances.

Telephone Shacklocks on 0845 602 2344 or email me at marionv@shacklocks.co.uk.

Cassandra Worton

William James

Grace Steele Director & Solicitor Wills & Probate Giles Tyas Director & Solicitor Residential Conveyancing

Jackie Abbott Senior Conveyancer Commercial Property

Joanne Wilbraham Solicitor Family Law

Business & Professional

Business & Professional

Money Matters:

10 Years of Belper IFS: Our First Decade

Money Matters: Bank Holidays and DIY

10 years ago, Belper Independent Financial Solutions was formed after its founder (me, Kevin Glover) was made redundant from The Derbyshire Building Society.

Given the tools available to us (YouTube, manuals, websites etc), we can have a go at many jobs ourselves, from changing the oil in our cars to laying a patio. DIY can save money … until things go wrong.

There’s always the option of paying a professional to do these jobs. Taking advantage of their superior skills, the time they free up for us, and the risk they manage can make the cost worthwhile. Outsourcing to a mechanic could provide the reassurance that your car is still covered by warranty … which may not be the case after your DIY effort (check your small print). Sometimes the DIY option turns out to be false economy.

Since then, Belper has seen the loss of The Derbyshire, Woolworths, Somerfield, Thomas Cook and Britannia Building Society to name but a few long-standing institutions that are now confined to history Generations of people have been served or been customers of these organisations. You are probably one. State Pension Age has changed several times and will most likely do so again At least interest rates have not changed much! Rubbish then and not much better today

Consider this – joining the EU was considered the right decision once upon a time.

Recently, I had a client whose financial situation meant he was suited to buying an annuity with his remaining pension funds. This was right for him, given his age as a septuagenarian and desire for a secure income for the remainder of his lifetime. However, this annuity purchase meant the end of our professional relationship of over 10 years. We had, for more than a decade, provided retirement advice and ongoing services (in exchange for an ongoing fee and annual review).

From my dining room in 2009, to an office in Heanor, back to Belper and now to the present location, much has changed including the greyness of my hair and the size of my waistline! Now as a team of 8 we have seen the client base expand over the years. ‘Generous’ successive Chancellors introduce new legislation impacting the public and signposting the need for financial advice.

What about you – what has changed in your lives over the last 10 years? How many jobs have you had? Has your family extended or tragedy struck? How many times have you moved house? How many pension schemes have you been a member of and simply left, through one reason or another? How many cars, partners and other life events have occurred?

I briefly left the room and, when I returned, he handed me some hastily scribbled notes – thoughts he felt compelled to share at the end of our time together: “Regrets – when I started work, I didn’t see you. ‘It will be alright as it was for Mum and Dad’. I wish I had gambled more with your advice. I wish I had invested more instead of squandering what I had left each month. Positives – I was pleased with how you have looked after me. And you made me feel very comfortable. And I trusted you implicitly. And you have never let me down. One thing for sure I would be in trouble now.”

How many investments have you made and when were they last reviewed and looked at? My point is

I admit, it brought a lump to my throat. It was a lovely, insightful thing for him to share, a testimonial but also so much more. So, we are regulated in providing financial advice. What is the benefit of this? Firstly, everyone’s need for advice changes over time. For him, it was a retirement income need, for others it may be providing suitable cover for a family in the event of someone’s demise. Maybe it is looking at pensions and the finances before or at retirement. Perhaps mitigating inheritance tax.

that the need for financial advice and a solution should not be seen as a one-off. Financial products and solutions were probably right at the time, but just how much has changed since their inception?

Investment funds (whether held in pension wrappers or alternative structures such as Stocks and Shares ISAs), are mostly run by fund managers who are also human beings. As humans they may retire, defect to other companies, or run out of luck! Solutions that may have been right at the start may no longer be suitable or effective. Leading fund managers in 2009 may no longer be leading fund managers as we approach 2020.

Of course, we could navigate all these things ourselves, but what if it was done incorrectly or inefficiently? I would certainly rather my car is taken care of by a mechanic, wallpaper hung by a decorator or the patio laid by a landscaper.

In April 2015, pension regulations changed. They will almost certainly change again. Pensions from prior to this time may no longer be suitable – but just how would you know? So, as you sit munching your turkey over the festive period, consider how many of these questions apply to you and see what may benefit from having a review.

Is 2020 the time to take a look at your financial arrangements once again and get them fit for purpose?

What are the consequences of outsourcing and paying for financial advice? An increase in cost; most likely. But with that you benefit from consumer protection – access to the Financial Ombudsman, Financial Services Compensation Scheme plus insured advice too. You’re likely to receive evidenced, better and more suitable solutions, meeting objectives and planning, peace of mind, understanding. Handholding in adversity and better outcomes. Maybe more time for other things, like enjoying the gardening (which we may be better at ourselves)?

The value of financial advice can be measured in many ways, as my client noted. When DIY suits it suits. And when it doesn’t … maybe the regrets become more

Wishing you a happy 2020 and a prosperous next 10 years.

By Kevin Glover, Belper IFS

Glover, Belper IFS

This information is general only and is not intended to address your particular requirements. The data above should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be or constitute advice. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of their particular situation.

ation is general only and is not intended to r particular requirements The data above should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be or constitute advice No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of their particular situation

DON’T LEAVE YOUR FUTURE TO CHANCE

Let us help you create a tailored plan that reflects your unique circumstances, providing peace of mind for you and your family. Your legacy deserves the best care.

We can help you with:

ƒ Court of Protection

ƒ Deeds of Variation

ƒ Inheritance Tax Planning

ƒ Probate & Contentious Probate

ƒ Powers of Attorney

ƒ Trusts

ƒ Will writing

Call a member of the team on 01332 226 158 or scan the QR code for more information.

Mon - Fri 8:00am - 4:30pm Sat 8:00am - 2:00pm

Pets Dog Diving

Swimming is one of the best workouts your dog can have: it’s easy on the joints, great for cardio and, let’s face it, splashing around is just plain fun. However, while some dogs take to water like ducks, others are more hesitant, and a few are not built for it.

Love it or hate it

Take bulldogs or pugs, for example. Their short muzzles make it tough to keep their noses above water. They often have to paddle almost upright to stay afloat. Other breeds, like Labradors, might love the water a little too much, and you’ll have a job convincing them it’s time to head home.

Warming to the water

Notwithstanding physiological challenges, how can you persuade a reluctant swimmer to take the plunge?

Pick a warm, sunny day and find calm, shallow water.

• Avoid places that are busy with other dogs or children.

• Look for a gentle slope into the water – no surprise splashes.

• Show your dog how to get back out safely, so they don’t panic.

• Bring along a few floating toys and some high-value treats for motivation.

• Stepping into the water with them can boost their confidence. Many dogs find comfort in having their human nearby. Keep things positive, relaxed and full of praise.

Safety first, always

Not every dog will love swimming – and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to turn your dog into an Olympic diver but to introduce a new form of play and exercise they might enjoy. Watch their body language closely. If they seem anxious, let them take a break or try again another day.

Always supervise your dog in and near water. Even confident swimmers can get tired and unexpected currents or slippery edges can be dangerous. Consider a dog life jacket, especially for new swimmers or breeds that aren’t built for the water.

The bottom line

Swimming can be a fantastic activity for your dog, but only if they’re enjoying it. Let them go at their own pace and always prioritise safety and fun.

Sheila: A Sourdough Love Story

Sourdough September, launched by the Real Bread Campaign in 2013, is a month-long celebration of traditional, additive-free sourdough. Why? Because real bread, made with nothing but flour, water, salt, and time, deserves the spotlight.

My own sourdough love story began with many failed attempts. I tried making a starter from scratch, but it flatly refused to bubble. I had all but given up when a friend blessed me with a small jar of her long-lived starter. Overjoyed, I named her Sheila, and wondered if this little jar of strange beige gloop would be just the inspiration I needed.

As Sheila grew with her daily feedings, so did my confidence to bake. Surprisingly, my first loaf was edible.

Encouraged by this, I kept going. The loaves gradually got a bit better, the crusts more crusty, and I even dared to sprinkle in seeds and nuts if I was feeling a little crazy.

Since then, I’ve passed on bits of Sheila to friends. Some became devoted bakers. Others had their starters overtaken by different responsibilities like home, jobs, and kids. It happens. But I’m happy to report that Sheila,

Just a Thought... Together in Separation

I read an article recently that said the beloved TV series Dr. Who was struggling with its viewership for one very important reason. The reason being that traditionally it appealed to the family group who would sit down and watch it together, but it seems this particular dynamic is a dying scenario.

I look around my own house and think of how we ‘watch’ things nowadays. Firstly, everyone has an individual device on which to consume content – whether it’s a laptop, tablet or mobile phone, it’s designed for one person watching. Then there is the huge array of entertainment to choose from, it may be social media, it could be an online tutorial or perhaps it’s an article or on-demand TV show – the choices are endless.

Like anything there are pluses and minuses to this conundrum. Choice is a wonderful thing and indeed a privilege that the generations before us did not have access to, so for that we should be grateful. However,

and my sourdough love, is still going strong.

In fact, I can totally empathise with the story of Louise Boudin. During the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, she risked her life to save her bakery’s original mother dough. She grabbed the bucket of starter and ran through the chaos to preserve the live culture that had been nurtured since the California Gold Rush. And that starter is still being used by the bakery today.

If you’re tempted, I recommend beginning with a spoonful of someone else’s starter. Then find one simple recipe online or ask a friend so you don’t get overwhelmed with all the complex details. You’ll start getting the hang of what you’re actually doing and will be baking with your heart in no time.

And, if baking isn’t for you? Head to Belper Farmers’ Market or check out some local bakeries. Whether you bake or buy, sourdough brings something ancient and comforting to our modern lives. So, grab a slice of the action and maybe, just maybe, you’ll start a sourdough love story of your own.

By Jessica White

this endless wave of possibilities leaves us all at sea and somewhat stranded when it comes to connection.

Whereas before we would all sit together to watch a shared show and then discuss the plot line or remark on the acting prowess, now we isolate ourselves into our own corner of the entertainment world and have a level of disconnect from those we live with.

Don’t get me wrong – having your own space is vital and some of us need more than others (introverted extrovert over here!), but I feel that we are being encouraged to function in a more solo style than ever before and that it may not be entirely positive.

So, in the spirit of togetherness and the proud realm of family entertainment I am making a conscious decision to try and induce more communal consumption of entertainment. Let’s make it ‘Dr. Who!’ and less ‘Dr. Who?’

By Fliss Goldsmith of Belper

Time for Tea

What could be more British or more delicious than afternoon tea?

Tea-rific story

Afternoon tea in Britain has a fascinating past. Its invention in the 1840s is attributed to Anna Russell, Duchess of Bedford. Feeling peckish around 5pm and knowing dinner wouldn’t be served until close to 9pm, she asked her servants for bread and butter and cake to go with her habitual cup of tea. She started inviting her friends to join her for tea at her home, Woburn Abbey. Queen Victoria was a close confidant, so it’s possible that’s how the monarch adopted the habit herself. In any event, a new tradition was born.

The craze affected society, influencing fashion, from Victorian ladies’ loose tea gowns, designed to be worn without corsets while entertaining at home, to the colourful tea dresses of the post-Second World War era – and even those we’re wearing this summer. The women’s suffrage movement grew in strength thanks to discussions over tea and cakes in drawing rooms and tea rooms.

Tea dances were all the rage from around 1910. During the Second World War, they were a place for soldiers to unwind by jiving or dancing the Lindy Hop. Countless

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Food, Drink & Entertainment

couples met and married thanks to a social event based on afternoon tea! The concept has become embedded in our culture.

Storm in a teacup?

But where there’s a concept, there’s controversy. Do you put the tea or the milk in first? Originally, if you wanted to show you had a superior tea service, you poured the hot tea first in the certain knowledge the china wouldn’t crack. But some experts say that adding the milk first gives a better taste.

The battle about whether to spread cream or jam on your scone first continues to rage too. In Devon, it’s clotted cream before the jam – and Devon is the home of the cream tea, right? Then, there’s the question of how to pronounce ‘scone’. What’s hard to dispute is the unique pleasure of afternoon tea, whether it’s in a summer garden or beside a roaring fire in winter, sitting in a cosy café or living it up at the Ritz.

Afternoon Tea Week runs from 11-17 August.

By Susannah Hickling

The Palfrey At The New Inn - A Taste Of Derbyshire

Located in the scenic village of Milford, The Palfrey blends rustic charm with modern style. Known for its seasonal menus, crafted from locally sourced ingredients, it offers everything from elegant small plates to hearty Sunday roasts.

Relax with a fine wine or signature cocktail in a beautifully restored historic inn, perfect for casual dining or special occasions

Recipe Honey Mustard Puy Lentil Salad

Packed with crunch and colour, and bursting with flavour, this vibrant salad can be made ahead of time. Serve it on its own or as the perfect accompaniment to barbecue fare.

Makes: 3 portions

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 180g Puy lentils

• 1 avocado

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 150g tenderstem broccoli, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

• 100g green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 handfuls of cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 handfuls of rocket

• 3 tbsp pumpkin seeds

For the dressing

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 1 tbsp honey

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

• Salt and black pepper

Method

Put the lentils into a saucepan and cover with three times the amount of water. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Peel the avocado, cut into cubes, tip into a bowl and squeeze the lemon juice over the top.

Bring another saucepan of water to the boil and have ready a bowl of iced water. Cook the broccoli and green beans in the boiling water for 3-4 minutes before plunging them into the iced water to halt the cooking process and preserve their green colour. Drain and pat dry.

In a separate bowl, mix the dressing ingredients and then spoon evenly into the bottom of three lidded containers so that, when stored, nothing goes soggy. Layer the lentils on top, followed by the blanched greens, cherry tomatoes, a handful of rocket, the pumpkin seeds and a sprinkle of salt. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Just before eating, shake everything in the container to mix the dressing with the salad.

Recipe extracted from ‘Cooking Fast and Slow’ by Natalia Rudin, published by Penguin Life, price £25, with photography by Issy Croker.

Beer: Barrel-Aged Alchemy

The rise of mixed-fermentation breweries in the UK.

A quiet revolution has been brewing in the British beer scene, one led not by hazy IPAs or pastry stouts, but by wild yeasts, oak barrels, and patience. Mixed fermentation, a method that blends multiple strains of yeast and bacteria, has found a loyal following among drinkers seeking complexity, nuance and a character reminiscent of cider.

Pioneering this movement are small, passionate breweries such as Balance in Manchester, Crossover Blendery in Hertfordshire, and Wilderness in Wales. All of whom craft beers fermented and aged in wood, often for months or even years. These producers draw on traditional methods

Word on Wine

Hopefully, the good weather that started the summer is continuing.

To continue from the last article about Chenin Blanc wine from Vouvray, France, let’s look at another Chenin Blanc, this time produced in South Africa.

Chenin Blanc has now become synonymous with white wine of South Africa. Thought to have been part of a batch of vines imported to South Africa by Jan van Riebeeck in 1655, there are now more than double the number of Chenin Blanc vines in South Africa than in France. It is sometimes referred to as ‘Steen’ and it makes up over 17% of the total wine produced in South Africa. It was found that the vines are very productive in the Cape climate with good resistance to disease and the strong winds. Over recent years there has been an increase in efforts to produce high quality wines, attracting premium prices.

A good example of this wine is made by the Blake’s Family Wines of Yzerfontein in Swartland, on the west coast of South Africa north of Cape Town and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This single vineyard wine is produced from dryland bush 30-year-old vines. The grapes are picked for optimum ripeness and fermented in stainless steel tanks. This produces a light, golden-coloured full-bodied wine with light oak flavours. It is a well-structured wine that will improve over the next few years.

To advertise contact Ruth: M: 07545

Food, Drink & Entertainment

reminiscent of Belgian lambic and saison making, embracing unpredictability and terroir.

Scatterlings, based in Surrey, and Terra Tempo, a newer name in the field, are among the latest to join this niche but growing wave. Mills Brewing, nestled in rural Gloucestershire, ferments its wild, barrel-aged beers over multiple years in indigenous wooden storehouses, embracing ambient microflora and seasonal temperature variations.

Yet it’s not all good news. Little Earth Project, a Suffolk-based trailblazer in wild and mixed-fermentation beers, recently announced its closure, a reminder of the commercial challenges faced by such specialised operations. Still, the growing appreciation for these beers, bolstered by events and education initiatives from groups like CAMRA, suggests this is more than a passing trend.

By Sean McKeown

Twitter/X and Instagram: @belperbeerclub

Technical Details:

Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc

Appearance: Clean, light, golden wine

Characteristics: Hints of banana, dried apricots and honey with a pleasant mouthfeel and finish. Alcohol by Volume: 12.5% Food Match: Spicy and full-flavoured dishes, along with mild seafood and poultry.

Available from: Edgmond Wines, Shropshire: online at www.edgmondwines.co.uk or call 07973 257462. £17.95 per bottle.

For more information about the wine, visit www.blakesfamilywines.com.

If you like wine and would like to learn more, please visit our website www.kilburnwinecircle.weebly.com for our 2025 programme.

By David Savidge, Kilburn Wine Circle

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Fitness Matters

Fitness on the Clock

The power of 10 to 20-minute home workouts.

In a fast-paced world where time is one of our most valuable and limited resources, fitting in regular exercise can feel impossible. But just 10 to 20 minutes a day is enough to significantly impact on your physical and mental wellbeing.

You don’t need a gym membership, fancy equipment or hours of spare time, just a little space at home and a commitment to prioritise yourself each day. Short home workouts are a smart, effective solution. They are backed by science, praised by time-strapped professionals, and can offer many health benefits.

• Cardiovascular Health

In just 10-20 minutes of moderate to vigorous movements (think HITT, circuits, bodyweight cardio, banded intervals) you can get your heart pumping, improving circulation and endurance. Your heart is a muscle; you may not see it visually, but you need it to be fit and strong.

• Strength Gains

With the right combination of bodyweight exercises, resistance bands or light dumbbells, short sessions can still help define muscles, improve bone density and enhance functional strength.

Level 3 personal trainer. Andy is now taking clients. 1:1 sessions in a private studio.

Tailored sessions to boost strength, stamina, motivation & fitness.

He can also offer one-on-one boxing sessions for fitness, or as part of combined boxing and fitness session, depending on your requirements.

Please call Alex on 07817 337861

•

Mental Health

One of the fastest ways to boost mood is to move. A quick workout releases endorphins, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves low moods, which is especially important if you’re stuck at home or juggling multiple roles. I love to turn music up loud and dance!

• Overall Wellness

Regular movement improves sleep, boosts immunity, increases energy and helps regulate blood sugar and hormones.

All of this can come from a small investment each day! The secret isn’t length or intensity, it’s consistency. Doing a 10 to 20-minute workout most days is far more effective than doing a single hour-long workout each week. Start small, be realistic and make it part of your routine. Slot it in before work, after the school run, during your lunch break or as a wind down before your evening shower. Over time, this will become less of a task and more of a daily wellness ritual.

So, the next time you think “I don’t have time” remember, a little movement goes a long way.

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Level 4 Personal Trainer with additional qualifications in GP referrals – Pre- & post-natal exercise. Personal Trainer for over 15 years, supporting and helping people to meet their goals in fitness and lifestyle changes, from losing weight to running marathons. 01773 512410 • 07817 337861

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Health, Beauty & Fitness

Derbyshire Walking:

Longshaw Estate & Padley Gorge

Start/Finish Point & Parking:

Woodcroft Car Park on the NT Longshaw Estate; S11 7TZ; What3Words: /// reader.full.view (Fees apply; NT members free).

Distance: 3.8 miles (6.1km)

This beautiful walk starts and ends in the peaceful Longshaw Estate, owned and managed by the National Trust. The route offers incredible open views across the Peak District moorland landscape before entering the fairytale ancient oak woodland of Padley Gorge. There is a tearoom at the start/end of the walk and a cafe roughly halfway round for refreshments if needed.

6. You will find Grindleford Station Cafe on the left here for refreshments. Immediately beyond the cafe buildings take the footpath on the left that leads up steps to reach the road (B6521). Turn left on the pavement for approximately 15 metres and then cross the road to take the path opposite that leads up steps into woodland.

The

Route

1. From the car park, walk past the Visitor Information Centre and continue straight on towards the cafe. Turn right at the T-junction of paths after approximately 150 metres, passing the cafe on your left. Beyond the cafe, cross the entrance road and take the narrow path that descends a set of steps and runs to the left in front of Longshaw Hall.

2. Go through the gate ahead and turn immediately right, following the clear path through rhododendrons and out into Longshaw Estate’s parkland. Follow the main path through a succession of gates (ignoring paths off), passing the lake on your right, emerging at Granby Discovery Barn. Continue past the barn and cross the road (B6521), taking the path through a wooden gate in the wall almost immediately opposite.

3. Follow the steps down as they curve to the right and continue straight ahead to cross Burbage Brook via a wooden footbridge. Turn left after the bridge and follow the rough path, keeping the stream on your left.

4. Continue straight on, through a further gate, to enter the beautiful ancient oak woodland of Padley Gorge. Follow the clear path through the trees. Ignore a path on the right after approx. 1km signposted to Surprise View and Bolehill Quarry, continuing on the main path.

5. At a rough junction of paths soon after this sign keep right, on the main path. The path ascends some steps, finally reaching a gate and emerging onto a quiet lane with houses on both sides. Follow the lane down to a T-junction and turn left, walking past Padley Mill on the left and then crossing over the railway line.

7. Follow the steps up. Continue straight on at a crossroads of paths after around 30 metres, still following the steps up through trees. Ignore a path on the left marked with a yellow arrow. The path eventually levels out amongst silver birch trees. Continue straight on, ignoring minor paths off.

8. After approx. 400 metres the path reaches an obvious fork. Take the right-hand fork leading to a wide wooden kissing gate. Continue through this gate, following the path straight ahead to return to the open countryside of the Longshaw Estate.

9. After approx. 500 metres look out for a broad track on the right at a signposted junction. Turn right and follow this track through the fields. At an obvious crossroads of paths turn left, following signs to the Visitor Centre.

10. Follow this track until it reaches a wooden gate. Go through the gate and straight on through a second, returning to the path you started on, with Longshaw Hall on your right. Turn right at the end of the path, cross the entrance road and retrace your steps back past the cafe. Turn left just beyond the cafe to return to the Woodcroft Car Park.

Walk kindly supplied by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire (visitpeakdistrict.com), written and produced by PeakLass (www.peaklass.com). Go to visitpeakdistrict.com/trails/ longshaw-estate-padley-gorge-walk to download a PDF of the walk.

It is advisable to carry the relevant OS map when walking the route, and wear appropriate clothing/ footwear. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any injuries caused to readers whilst following the walk

Little Eaton GarageLTD

Motoring Mini Convertible

Mini has chopped the roof off its latest Cooper hatchback. Cameron Richards uncovers what effect that has on the driving experience.

What is it?

To complete the latest Mini line-up, we have the new two-door Convertible, further boosting the appeal of one of the world’s trendiest small cars, the Mini Cooper hatchback.

What’s new?

The exterior design keeps the traditional rounded front end and Union Jack-styled tail lights. The only exception is a foldable fabric roof.

Mini is focusing on sustainability, with the Convertible’s interior featuring the firm’s 2D knitted dashboard and cabin plastics made from recycled materials.

What’s under the bonnet?

The engine variants remain the same as the Cooper hatchback, with three levels of powertrain – ‘C’, ‘S’ and ‘John Cooper Works’.

We’re driving the sportier Cooper ‘S’, which features a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This enables a power output of 207bhp, with the car topping out at 147mph. The ‘John Cooper Works’ (JCW) has the same 2.0-litre turbocharged unit with its power boosted to 234bhp. The Cooper ‘C’ comes with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder unit that produces 165bhp.

All Mini Convertibles come with an automatic gearbox and petrol engines.

What’s it like to drive?

The Mini Convertible retains the hatchback’s eager, cheeky character. On a corner, it sticks to the road like glue.

Wind buffering is kept to a minimum when the roof’s down – thanks to the large wind deflector –but visibility is impaired with it up because of the extremely large blind spots from the rear quarter sections.

An additional 56kg has been added for more structural rigidity. However, thankfully, the Mini Convertible is just as fun and impressive to drive as the regular hatchback.

How does it look?

The drop-top Convertible features the distinctive circular Mini front headlights and hexagonal front grille. Our test car’s fabric roof features a smart Union Jack design.

What’s it like inside?

The interior is identical to the hardtop. However, the circular 9.5-inch OLED infotainment screen is tricky to operate on the move.

The glovebox, two cup holders, knitted centre storage bin and decent door pockets make it practical for front occupants but legroom in the back is virtually non-existent.

Boot space is an issue. The 215-litre capacity reduces to 160 litres when the roof is folded down.

What’s the spec like?

There are four different trim levels – Classic, Exclusive, Sport and John Cooper Works (JCW).

Prices kick off at a steep £27,120 and rise to £36,580 for the performance-focused JCW. Our test car comes in at £32,270 with the Union Jack fabric roof costing an additional £700.

Verdict

Mini’s Convertible has always been popular for those wanting an entertaining drop top. This latest model has taken things to a new level with its refinement, fantastic driving experience and quirky, stylish and sustainable interior.

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Belmonte is a contemporary piece of furniture with a small nod to the past through the use of fibre. A modern round design and an open weaving technique emphasise the airy design of the collection. The lounge chair, sofa, side table and low table are all collection items that have a beautiful natural look with a handcrafted woven pattern and rounded shapes. The fact that the weaving has also been used for the seat retains its seating comfort.

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Home Interiors: Garden style

Enjoy lazy days and star-lit nights in your beautifully designed outdoor space.

It just takes a few simple steps to create a gorgeous environment in which you can relax, dine al fresco or entertain friends. You can achieve this whether you have a spacious lawn, a small balcony or a patio.

Choose beautiful furniture

Pop a simple chair in a quiet corner, with a coffee table nearby, to make the perfect spot for spending time with a good book or unwinding with a drink. For two people – especially if you’re short of space – a bistro dining set is inexpensive and convenient.

For family meals and entertaining, place a larger, sturdier table close enough to the house to carry food and drink in and out easily. A sofa or bench seat with plump cushions is ideal for relaxing in the sun.

Layer your lighting

Adding lighting to your garden creates atmosphere, helps guide you in the dark and provides additional security. If you’re planning landscaping work, including a permanent outdoor lighting circuit is a good idea, but quick fixes are highly effective.

You have two options: solar or battery power. Why not hang a paper globe over a dining table, stand

Neston garden lounge set, £999, The Cotswold Company. www.cotswoldco.com

Marrakesh terracotta bricks in light matt (5x15cm), £0.54 each, The Baked Tile Company. www.bakedtiles.co.uk

lanterns along a pathway and entwine string lights over a fence, around a tree or across the top of a gazebo? Portable LED lamps are great on a dining table, beside the barbecue or standing in the porch. Another option is old-school candles and night lights, protected from breezes in lanterns and jars.

Set the table

If you want to make your meal in the garden feel really special, lay your table in advance. Spread a pretty cloth over the top or a runner along the centre, add co-ordinating place mats, and arrange your most attractive crockery and glassware, cutlery and a jug of water. Add some table lamps and a vase of garden flowers.

Add plenty of accessories

Bring the inside out by adding colour, pattern and texture in the form of textiles and other accessories. Prop co-ordinating scatter cushions on seats and drape complementary throws over the backs in case the day turns cool. Add an outdoor rug (made from polypropylene to withstand the weather) to soften hard surfaces and give that extra feeling of homeliness. You could also prop a large mirror in a dark corner, or hang one on a wall, to reflect additional light and add decorative interest.

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Homes & Gardens

Short Story

The Squatter

“Grandma, come quick!” Polly shouted from the top of the garden. “There’s a man in a cream suit stuck in the Wendy house.”

“Just what I need!” Dorothy tutted, wiping her hands on a tea towel. She might have known it was a bad idea to enter the Open Gardens competition.

Today had been exhausting. After weeks of weeding, watering and second guessing her planting scheme, she’d fixed a polite smile on her face and served cream teas on the patio while all manner of folk poked around in her back garden. She’d not seen hide nor hair of the competition judge, which was very rude considering all the effort she’d put in.

Just when she thought she’d seen the back of the last visitor and had earned a large gin and tonic, there was a squatter in her Wendy house. She tucked her tea-towel in her pinny and strode up the garden.

The Wendy house was a dilapidated wooden construction, with barely room to swing a cat. Anyone over ten years of age would bump their head on the ceiling. Polly used to play tea parties at the little table in there with her teddies, but since graduating to big school she’d outgrown all that. The Wendy house was abandoned, home to only the creepy crawlies.

As Dorothy reached it, she was greeted with the unpleasant sight of a large backside. There really was a man in a cream suit stuck in her Wendy house. He had his rear to her, crouched in a very undignified position.

“Excuse me, sir.” She assumed a matronly tone. “You’ll have to come out. The open garden is now closed.”

“I’d like to.” His voice was strained. “But I’m afraid I can’t move.”

“Why did you go in there in the first place?” Dorothy asked impatiently. “It’s only designed for children.”

“I thought it was where you came to get a cream tea,” he said trying to look at her, “but then I couldn’t turn around.”

Polly giggled and Dorothy shot her a reprimanding glance.

“Just back out the way you came in,” she insisted. “I want to,” he groaned, “but my knees have gone to sleep.”

Polly stifled her laughter.

“Sir,” Dorothy summoned the last reserves of her patience, “just bend over and crawl out backwards.”

“But I’ll ruin my trousers,” the man complained. “Do you want to live in my Wendy house?” Dorothy snapped. The man sighed.

They watched as he awkwardly felt his way to the muddy and leaf-strewn floor. Dorothy felt mildly embarrassed that in all her preparations she had forgotten to check the state of the Wendy house.

The poor man crawled slowly on his hands and knees through the cobwebs, squeezing his bottom back through the doorway. Eventually he was far enough out for Dorothy to catch him under his armpits and haul him to his feet. His suit was ruined.

“I’ll fetch a damp cloth,” Dorothy tutted, “but I don’t think it’ll do much good.”

“Thank you very much,” he said. “I feel like a proper fool.”

“What on earth made you go in there?” Dorothy said. “The cups and saucers in there are just children’s toys.”

“That’s what she told me.” The man pointed at Polly. “Only for a joke. I said it to loads of people.” Polly shrugged. “Nobody else believed me.”

“I’ve left my clipboard in there,” the man said. “Would you mind getting it for me?”

“What on earth did you bring a clipboard for?” Dorothy asked.

“To write up my observations.” He brushed himself down. “I’m the Open Gardens judge.”

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Gardening: Gardening Goodness

Gardening is great for both mental and physical health. First and foremost, the physical activity it offers can help with fitness, balance, strength and flexibility. Even if your health is compromised, moving around a thoughtfully planted outdoor space is valuable exercise and good for well-being.

Of course, injuries can happen too. It’s common for people to cut themselves with secateurs and power tools, strain muscles and break bones. Meanwhile, gardens with steps, slopes and uneven paving pose more hazards than flat spaces but are more interesting. It’s all about being aware of potential dangers. A handrail in a tricky part of the garden can become part of an attractive design.

Grow your own

Growing food can boost the health benefits of a garden. You eat produce that is associated with few, if any, food miles and it can be chemical-free if you avoid sprays or artificial fertilisers. With freshness guaranteed, nutrients are not depleted.

In August, the advancing year will limit what can be sown or planted, but there’s still plenty of scope for growing salad crops, as well as some types of spinach and radishes.

You can sow spring onions directly into the ground, but they don’t generally do well in high temperatures, so you might need to provide some shade. Turnip

seeds can also be sown in August and it’s the perfect time to sow spring cabbages for harvesting as either spring greens or more mature cabbages next year.

Healthy herbs

Herbs offer many advantages. Several well-known plants are said to positively impact mental health, including lavender, rosemary, mint and lemon balm. Plant them near paths, where you can brush past them to enjoy their calming scent. They help to reduce stress and can also be added to a bath or even a tea.

Lavender is associated with better-quality sleep. English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, is claimed to have the best calming effect and is said to have anti-bacterial properties to help the healing of cuts. On the other hand, Lavandula latifolia, known as spike lavender, tends to energise and stimulate. It can also be used to help ease aches and pains.

Peppermint is also believed to have excellent healing qualities. Used in tea, it can aid digestion, reduce stress and promote good sleep. Pop some into a bath for an uplifting soak.

Plant care

During August, you can sow chamomile, coriander, parsley and dill. Also include hardy small plants within your herb garden, such as rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley, chives, mint and oregano. Some will appreciate winter protection if you want to continue your harvest throughout all seasons but others, including rosemary, will keep on giving. Water is key to success in August, so keep your newly planted crops hydrated in dry weather.

By Caroline Knight

The Diary of a Local Mum

Things You Shouldn’t Say to a New Parent

Your friend or relative has just had a baby … your kids are older now, so you’ve been through this stage before. You remember how hard it was, and you spot an opportunity to impart some ‘wisdom’ to help them out. Stop! No matter how wellmeaning your advice is, it really is best to bite your tongue!

Yes, the odd ‘tip’ might be much appreciated but often you’re best to just say ‘I get what you’re going through, it’s really difficult, but you’re doing a great job.’ When you’re in the throes of the ‘new parent’ phase, being questioned or hearing about what you could/should be doing really doesn’t help a great deal. There are certain frequently peddled questions and wisdoms that are almost guaranteed to set a new parent’s teeth on edge. I remember hearing these from well-meaning individuals when my kids were little and, I’m ashamed to say, one or two of these may have slipped unbidden from my lips in later years, much to my horror (followed by hasty apologies and cries of ‘I don’t know why I said that!’).

Are they sleeping through yet? Try X, Y or Z …

Sleep depravation is by far the worst aspect of becoming a new parent, so implying this torturous phase could/should have come to an end by now? Well, that’s just cruel. Babies will sleep through when they’re ready. And then they’ll probably start waking up again! There’s no timeline (and often no definitive end to this phase). The best thing you can do to help isn’t to offer advice on how to help a baby to sleep through (what works for one won’t necessarily work for another), or tell them when your baby did (really annoying if it was at an unusually early age!) instead, if your friend or relative is seriously sleep deprived, simply offer to take the baby out for a walk while they catch up on some much-needed kip.

Cherish every moment, it’ll fly by!

Yes, with the benefit of hindsight (and some rose-tinted specs) there will be moments you wish you could go back and relive – the uneventful, insignificant moments you feel you didn’t fully pay attention to the first time around. But … you do tend to forget or gloss over the moments that made you want to lock yourself in the understairs cupboard just to get a few minutes’ peace. Not every moment warrants cherishing, and some phases don’t fly by … the years may go quickly but the minutes, hours, days can really drag. Telling a new parent (who may be secretly struggling) that they should be appreciating and enjoying it more will just add to their worry that they’re somehow getting it wrong.

The advice has changed since mine were little! I never did it like that…

Yes, the ‘official’ advice does change. My babies were 2 ½ years apart and advice from midwives and health visitors changed from one to the next. But telling a new parent that things were done differently ‘in my day’ just makes them question things even more. Many new parents are already riddled with self-doubt and worry, so implying that the professional advice they’ve been relying on is somehow flawed will sow yet another seed of doubt that they really don’t need.

Do you think you’ll have another?

You’re barely getting through the day. The thought of being entirely responsible for a brand-new human feels overwhelming. You’ve only just healed from the birth, the memories of the pain are fading but they’re still there … and someone asks whether you’ll go through it all again? Not on your nelly! Yes, a few months or years down the line having another baby may move from the ‘no chance’ list to ‘could possibly consider’, and then to ‘actively want’. When your baby is just a few weeks/months old? How anyone has more than one can seem incomprehensible!

Shall we meet at 9am?

Just, no.

By Helen Young

Parenting Cooking with the Kids

Bored of baking fairy cakes? Help your kids’ cooking skills reach the next level with our easy recipes.

Top tips before you start

This is a great time to start teaching your child about food hygiene and safety. Even toddlers can quickly learn that they need to wash their hands before cooking and not to touch the hob when it’s on. Older children can learn how to use an oven glove and knife, why it’s important to clean surfaces and so on. Do always supervise kids when they’re cooking though.

All the recipes should feed four people for lunch or dinner.

Pepper and tomato pasta

Ingredients

• Half an onion

• Three large red or yellow salad peppers

• Two cloves of garlic

• One tablespoon of olive oil

• One carton of passata

• One tin of chopped tomatoes

• A pinch of dried basil

• Approx. 400g of dried wholemeal spaghetti

• Cheese to sprinkle on top

Method

• Chop the onion, peppers and garlic. Warm the olive oil on a medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the chopped vegetables and lightly sauté for a few minutes. Add the passata, tinned tomatoes and dried basil. Pop the lid on and leave to simmer on a low heat for 15 minutes.

• Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pan of boiling water for 10 minutes (or as long as it says on the packet).

• Blend the sauce until smooth and spoon it over the cooked pasta. Add grated cheese if required. If there’s any sauce left, freeze it for another day.

Cheesy egg muffins

Ingredients

• 8 eggs

• 100ml of milk

• 1-2 slices of ham

• A handful of vegetables, e.g. sliced mushrooms, chopped tomatoes, tinned sweetcorn

• Approx. 120g of cheddar cheese

Method

• Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Lightly grease a muffin tin with butter.

• Whisk the eggs and milk together.

• Tear the ham into small pieces. Add the vegetables and ham to each individual muffin cup. Pour in the eggs and top with grated cheese.

• Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. (Use a skewer or sharp knife to check they’re cooked.)

• Eat hot with fries or cold with salad.

Cheat’s pizza

Ingredients

• 2 part-baked baguettes

• 4-5 tablespoons of passata (or just use ketchup mixed with a dollop of tomato puree)

• Toppings, e.g. shredded ham, cooked sweetcorn, pineapple chunks, pepperoni

• Approx. 250g of grated mozzarella or cheddar

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6.

• Cut each baguette in half lengthways. Spread passata on the long cut sides.

• Add your toppings, followed by cheese, and pop the pizzas in the oven for 10 minutes.

By Kate Duggan

Children & Education

Belper School Navigating Belper School…

Welcome to our New Cohort!

Starting new is always a daunting thought. Whether it’s something small like writing a story, or something huge, like moving to a different city or, in your case, starting again in a brand new school: new people, new subjects, new experiences.

Are you nervous, maybe even dreading your first day? Don’t be. Your time at Belper School will be full of wonderful opportunities and the next four years will be an amazing adventure, but not knowing what to expect can be intimidating, so we hope to lighten the load in this article, with advice from students on how to make the most of your time here.

Your journey at Belper School is just beginning and we are so excited to welcome you. Our school may be different from others you may be familiar with; whether it’s the freedom of not having a uniform or calling teachers by their first names, our school is unique in wonderful ways with many perks you will soon discover. You might not know what to expect yet and that’s perfectly fine! It’s all part of the journey. We want you to have an amazing experience here, and we are sure you will! But we want you to know that it all comes with time. Whether it’s navigating through your timetable or exploring the school’s endless activities, you’ll get the hang of it. Your first week may seem crazy and overwhelming but once you’ve settled in, it will be a piece of cake!

It may feel stressful being surrounded by older students but trust me, we’ve all been in Year 7 and everyone knows how nerve-racking it may feel, so don’t worry! Coming to a new school is full of amazing opportunities such as meeting lifelong friends from different schools and doing subjects you would never have dreamt of in primary school, like cooking and textiles. When you look back at your time in Year 7 in years to come, you’ll realise how fast time truly goes at school and that there was no point panicking about the unknown. Overall, high school is going to be a tremendous adventure.

Finally, we have asked students for some of their biggest tips for starting at Belper School. Here are our top 5:

• Get used to our ‘Be Belper Values’, they should build the foundations of everything you do here at Belper. You will get merits every time you do these things well in your lessons.

• Don’t be late – whether it’s to school or lessons, arriving on time means you can get straight into learning and relax into the lesson.

• Keep track of things – it’s good to get into the habit of being organised, whether that means setting reminders on your phone, or having a personal diary. Be prepared.

• Getting lost and confused is just part of the journey – don’t worry – we’ve all been there.

Secondary school, high school, big school, whatever you want to call it, it’s still just school and, while it may be overwhelming now, it will all work out in the end. And the biggest tip of all… ENJOY IT! Time goes so quickly, enjoy every step of the way.

By Belper School Students – Grace Johnson, Hannah Oxley, Katy Pritchard, Nia Allsop and Nieve Duerden.

School Information

Ambergate Primary School 01773 852204

Anthony Gell School 01629 825577

Belper Long Row Primary 01773 823319

Belper School 01773 825281

Breadsall CofE VE Primary School 01332 831328

Codnor Community Primary School 01773 742537

C of E Controlled

Denby Free C of E Primary 01332 880416

Ecclesbourne School 01332 840645

Fritchley CE (Aided) Primary 01773 852216

Heage Primary School 01773 852188

Heanor Gate Science College 01773 716396

Herbert Strutt Primary 01773 822771

Holbrook C of E Primary 01332 880277

Horsley C of E Primary 01332 880782

Horsley Woodhouse Primary 01332 880403

John Flamsteed Community School 01332 880260

Kilburn Infant & Nursery School 01332 880449

Kilburn Junior 01332 880540

Langley Mill (CE) Controlled Infant School & Nursery 01773 713429

Little Eaton Primary 01332 831471

Mapperley CofE Primary School 0115 9325386

Meadows Primary 01332 840305

Milford Primary 01332 841316

Morley Primary 01332 831295

Pottery Primary 01773 823383

Richardson Endowed Primary School 01332 880317

Ripley Junior School 01773 742281

Scargill CE Primary, West Hallam 0115 9320005

St Andrew’s C of E Primary School 0115 9324252

St Benedict 01332 557032

St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary 01773 822278

St John’s CE Primary, Belper 01773 822995

Stanley Common Primary School 0115 9322437

Street Lane Primary 01773 742717

Swanwick Hall School 01773 602106

Turnditch CE VA Primary 01773 550304

William Gilbert Primary 01332 840395

School Terms 2025/2026

2026 to Friday 13 February 2026

Term 4: Monday 23 February 2026 to Friday 27 March 2026

Term 5: Monday 13 April 2026 to Friday 22 May 2026

Term 6: Monday 1 June 2026 to Thursday 23 July 2026

Make sure of what you wish formake a will

Most of us have an idea of what we want to happen after we have gone. Who will look after things in the first few days, who will arrange our funeral and most of all, who we would choose to inherit after our death.

Without a will, legislation decides who is entitled to your money, and that may not be who you would want it to be.

Trust us to advise you on such important arrangements.

Make sure you have a Will in place - later may be sooner than you think.

Wherever Life Takes You

Take the Monarch Air

save over £200 on your new scooter.

www.derbymobility.co.uk

Jonathan Davies MP for Mid Derbyshire

Reliable public transport is transformative. It improves access to jobs, medical appointments and public services - and it supports high streets.

Residents of Belper and surrounding villages have told me the reduction of Babington Hospital’s services has forced them to travel to Ripley or Derby for care, tests and screenings.

While this is a short drive for some, people reliant on public transport may face a multi-hour round trip.

The loss of Derbyshire Community Transport last year deepened this challenge.

I have been supporting Belper Community Transport (BCT) since its inception to recover services once provided by Derbyshire Community Transport.

BCT is now up and running with two vehicles, one of which is accessible to people who use a wheelchair.

Along with a team of volunteer drivers and the backing of local care homes, local people now have an excellent new service available to all - regardless of their mobility.

BCT is a membership scheme. Call 07982 376697 to find out more about the service - and book a vehicle for your personal use once you have joined.

With the support of Belper Town Council, BCT ran a free shuttle bus during Belper Food Festival, going in an hourly loop between the town centre and surrounding residential areas.

This connected parts of Belper without a Sunday bus service, and proved very popular with just a few days of publicity. I hope it will be repeated.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority has just been given £2 billion of funding for transport infrastructure, and I will be asking that public transport be prioritised. If you have any thoughts, I would be delighted to hear from you. You can email me at jonathan.davies.mp@parliament.uk or call my office on 01332 415616.

Local History

Something from Strutts: School Reunion

School reunions represent a unique opportunity to reconnect with old friends and renew acquaintances; many of us lose contact with all but a few of our peers and consequently know little about the lives of those who once shared our classrooms.

Even though the Herbert Strutt Grammar School and the Middle School were closed in 1973 and 1986 respectively there are still many of us who remember school events, teachers, lessons and the school building with interest and affection. And many of us would welcome an opportunity to re-enter those school gates.

The reunion for Strutts Grammar and Middle School students will take place on Friday August 15th from 6pm until 10pm. The event includes a buffet supper, a glass of wine and tea or coffee. The cost will be £20.

Throughout the evening there will be opportunities to chat with other guests and to look around the building, some of which has been refurbished and some of which needs attention. The library is one of the rooms which has been sensitively restored to its former glory, but the school hall is still on the list for a major makeover.

I’m sure our collection of memorabilia will be of interest to visitors. We have copies of the Scroll magazines, exercise books, reports, examination reports, log books and many photographs. It has to be said that we have more Grammar School memories than those collected during the Middle School era; there might be some people who could contribute in this area.

We would be really pleased to welcome anyone interested in attending this event, and please feel free to bring your partner along.

To reserve a place, or for more information, please contact Sue (at Belper Strutts Society) on bssocnews@gmail.com.

We hope to see you in August.

By Joan Hardy Strutts Society Committee www.strutts.org.uk

Upbeat: Stay connected with Derbyshire Constabulary – Now on WhatsApp

We’re always finding new ways to keep you informed, safe, and connected.

We’ve recently launched our brand-new WhatsApp Channel — a quick, secure way to get trusted updates straight from your local police, right to your phone.

Many people use WhatsApp every day to stay in touch with family and friends. Now, you can also use it to stay up to date with what’s happening across Derbyshire — without needing to be on social media.

Our WhatsApp Channel is a one-way broadcast service, which means you won’t be added to a group or receive messages from other users. Instead, you’ll get regular updates directly from Derbyshire Constabulary, straight to your phone.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Good news stories – see the positive work our officers and staff are doing every day

• Community events be the first to hear about community meet ups

• Major incident appeals – help us when it matters most by sharing key information

• Safety campaigns informed about important topics like road safety and e-scooter guidance

• Job opportunities find out about careers and recruitment within the force

You’ll also receive timely “warn and inform” messages when necessary.

This channel is ideal for anyone who doesn’t use Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram but still wants to stay in the loop. It’s also a great way to feel more connected to your local police officers and the work we’re doing in your area. Joining is easy — just scan the QR code above to join. You’ll start receiving updates automatically. And if you find it useful, please share the link with friends, neighbours, and family members who might benefit too.

We’re proud to serve the people of Derbyshire, and this is just one more way we’re working to keep you informed and involved. Thank you for staying connected.

Community Diary August/September 2025

August:

2nd: Pride in Belper. Parade (the ‘Strutt’) starts from Belper Market Place, 12noon. Stalls, music, activities. All welcome. For info see prideinbelper.co.uk. 3rd: Pride in Belper Fun Dog Show, 2pm Belper Memorial Gardens. £2 per class to enter, just turn up. For categories & info see prideinbelper.co.uk 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st: ‘Larks in the Park’ at the Bandstand, Belper River Gardens, 2-4pm. Local musical performances. Free event. 9th: Belper Organ and Keyboard Club concert: Glyn Madden. 2pm, Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. £10 admission. Refreshments available. www.belperorganclub.com.

15th: VJ Day Raising of the Flag. Short service to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. 6pm Belper Memorial Gardens. 16th: VJ Day Picnic in the Park, Belper Memorial Gardens. Commemorative event to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. 11am – 2pm. Bring your own picnic (alcohol not permitted). Stalls, activities, music.

September:

1st: Belper Organ Club presents an Afternoon Tea Dance with Miss ‘Twinkle Fingers’ Carol Bradbury playing Yamaha keyboards. 2pm – 4.30pm at The Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. £6.50 incl. refreshments. Tickets: 07970 115818 or 07790 302749. 5th: Belper 50+ Open Forum. Friendly group for anyone over 50. 10.30 – 13.00 at Belper Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. Speakers: Canine Partners Service Dogs & Citizens Advice. Info: fiftyplusforums@derbyshire.gov.uk or 01629 539623.

11th: Language Soirée, 7-9pm at No.28 Market Place, Belper DE56 1FZ. Conversation in a different language at each table. BYO drinks & nibbles. All languages welcome. £6 on the door (£3 u18). Native speakers free! Info: twentyeightbelper@btinternet.com.

13th: Belper Organ and Keyboard Club concert: Phil Brown. 2pm, Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. £10 admission. Refreshments available. www.belperorganclub.com.

15th – 22nd: Nordic Walking ‘have a go’ free events. Walk with poles as part of Amber Valley Autumn Footprints walking festival. 15th at Whitemoor Rec, Belper DE56 0HB 18.00 – 18.45; 18th at Whitemoor Rec, Belper DE56 0HB 09.15 – 10.00; 18th at Belper River Gardens DE56 1BE 12.30 – 13.15; 22nd at 3 Cornered Rec, Belper DE56 1GY 08.00 – 08.45. Limited places, booking essential for all dates. Email nordicstride2thrive@gmail.com.

20th: 28 Laughs Stand Up Comedy, 7.30 for 8pm, No.28 Market Place Belper DE56 1FZ. £11 entry – book online at www.wegottickets.com. BYO drinks.

Please check events with the venue/organiser as the publisher accepts no responsibility if events are changed/cancelled following publication. If you have a one-off event or special excursion for October/November 2025 please email it to helen@allthingslocal.co.uk. Deadline is Wednesday 20th August 2025.

Useful Numbers

Doctors & Hospitals, Emergencies

Beautiful

Book

Funeral enquiries handled respectfully and sensitively in our comfortable consulting area

Post Offices

Travel

Friendship Blooms

‘Say it with flowers’ and spread some happiness within the community! Let All Things Local help you to put a smile on the face of someone who truly deserves it.

Perhaps a friend or family member is always there for you through thick and thin, or someone in a local business always goes above and beyond to provide an exceptional service. There could be a volunteer who doesn’t realise how much their support is valued … or, maybe, someone you know has had a tough time and deserves a floral ‘pick me up’.

Whatever the reason, let All Things Local help you to show your appreciation by surprising them with a beautiful bouquet supplied by Beverley Kennedy (pictured) from Floraline, Gregory’s Way, Belper.

This issue, we’re delighted to present the Friendship Blooms bouquet to Lynne Terry of Belper. Lynne was nominated by Rev’d Tony Wells of Heage Methodist Church:

“I would like to nominate Lynne Terry for Friendship Blooms. She is such a caring, enthusiastic person who’s always willing to help others. She is someone who readily goes out of her way to help others. She is much involved in the life of the Church at Heage – indeed we’d struggle without her! From giving lifts to Supper Club to helping people in the community and baking cakes, she’s an all-round good person, and all she does is with a smile, bringing joy and humour. Lynne truly deserves these flowers to show how much she’s appreciated.”

Rev’d Tony Wells

Do you know someone who deserves a bouquet?

Send in your nomination and let us surprise them! Simply state (in 100 words or fewer) who you are nominating and why you’d like them to receive the Friendship Blooms bouquet. Please include your contact details as well as their name and address (or where we can find them!). You can nominate more than one person if they are living/working at the same address… and, remember, flowers don’t just have to be for women! Please note, the only rule is that the person receiving the flowers must live/work/volunteer within the distribution area of All Things Local (see front cover for details).

Send your nomination by post to: Friendship Blooms, All Things Local, 74 Woodhouse Road, Kilburn, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0NA or e-mail it to helen@allthingslocal.co.uk, putting ‘Friendship Blooms’ as the subject. Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number on your nomination.

Closing date for nominations for the next issue is Wednesday 20th August 2025.

All nominations are kept on file and you will be contacted if your nomination has been selected. Contact information is only used by All Things Local; no information is given to any third party.

Advertiser Information

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert.

All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All Things Local does not officially endorse any advertising/editorial material included within the publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior consent of the publisher.

Advertiser’s details (other than those provided for inclusion in advertisements) are confidential and will not be given to any third party.

Publisher: All Things Local Limited, 74 Woodhouse Road, Kilburn, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0NA T: 01332 882882 M: 07977 272770 E: karyn@allthingslocal.co.uk

W: www.allthingslocal.co.uk

Graphic Design: Digital Bear Design

Printer: Buxton Press Ltd

Deadlines for October/November 2025 Edition: Advertisement Bookings, Editorials, Cancellations and Copy Amendments: Wednesday 20th August 2025

New Advertiser Copy: Tuesday 26th August 2025

Lynne receives the Friendship Blooms bouquet from Rev’d Tony Wells.

Beverley Kennedy

Community

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