Castle Donington Life February 2023

Castle

Donington

Editor Vanessa Preece 01530 417739

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Welcome

Welcome to February’s issue, which is packed with practical advice. We have articles on local gift ideas for Valentine’s Day, top tips on choosing a vet, two delicious seasonal recipes and this month’s essential gardening jobs from Francesca Sinclair.

We’ve also got a whole host of community news. We bring you the latest updates from the National Forest, Rural Action Derbyshire, Hemington and Lockington Parish Council and more.

As always, we also have a round up of events happening in and around the area this month and a fantastic competition to win an afternoon of family fun for four at Sunnyside Adventure.

Until next time,

Castle Donington Life is an independent publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the editor. The use of this magazine for canvassing or direct marketing is strictly prohibited. Information is included on the What’s On and Community Board pages subject to space being available. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, Castle Donington Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in this magazine. All adverts are published in good faith using information supplied by each company, on the understanding that relevant permissions have been obtained.

Vanessa

Please mention CASTLE DONINGTON LIFE when responding to adverts

The Wonder of Toys

Did you know we also design, supply and fit kitchens and bathrooms? Come down for a chat!

Celebrating Valentine’s Day locally

When planning that special gift for your loved one this Valentine’s Day remember to shop local and support one of the many small businesses in our area. Here’s just a small selection of what’s on offer:

Honest Wines

If you’re thinking of cooking up a storm at home to show your loved one how much you care, don’t forget an equally special tipple to wash it all down with. Why not head down to see Karl from Honest Wines on Borough Street, who can help you pick out the perfect accompaniment to any cuisine or maybe even the perfect fizz to celebrate popping the question, since it’s Valentine’s Day? Honest Wines are located at 19 Borough Street, Castle Donington or browse online at www.thehonestwinecompanyltd.co.uk

The Retreat by Beauty Temple

Why not treat your special someone to an Elemis Rose Retreat Package at The Retreat in Castle Donington? For just £49 per person, this luxurious treat includes a delicious English Rose cocktail or English rose flower tea, a Rose Back Massage, Elemis Pro Collagen Facial, scalp massage & a heated eye mask. You can add on a 30 minute hot tub session for an extra touch of relaxation. They also have hampers & gift vouchers available. Take a look and order online at beautytemple.co.uk/the-retreat/

Strawberry House Interiors

Located on Borough Street, Strawberry House Interiors is a treasure trove of beautiful gifts for your loved one. With beautiful home fragrances, jewellery & accessories available, you’re sure to find that perfect something. If you prefer to say ‘I love you’ with food, they also offer the most amazing afternoon tea. Booking is essential. See www. strawberry-house.co.uk or call 01332 814370 for more information or to book.

Flowers by Frederika

Flowers by Frederika, located on Derby Road in Kegworth have a great selection of gorgeous bouquets available, there is something to fit most budgets. All of the Valentine’s Bouquets have romantic names, so will you choose the beautiful ‘Forever & Always’ & ‘My Sweetheart’ with their red roses – a classic way to say ‘I love you’ – or perhaps the ‘True Love Whites’ with stunning cream roses. Order by visiting www.fbfuk.co.uk/ & clicking on ‘The Romantic Collection’ or call Frederika on 01509 672499.

e Dower House Garden

On Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February, between 10am and 3pm each day, the garden at The Dower House, in Melbourne will be open to the public in aid of the National Garden Scheme. The garden has a breath-taking view facing south over Melbourne Pool, viewed from a balustraded terrace running the length of the house. Paths and steps descend either side of this terrace down a huge bank covered in roses and shrubs to the lower lawn.

A rose tunnel divides the garden which has numerous paths leading to different areas, each providing a variety of planting opportunities: a bog garden, dry banks, the dappled shade of a glade, an orchard and shrubbery, a small rockery and a little woodland with many island beds. There are many seats around the garden where visitors may pause to take in the views.

The February opening will show a garden full of snowdrops, aconites, winter clematis,

winter honeysuckle, daphnes, witch hazels, irises, crocus, cyclamen and many other winter flowering plants. There will be tea, coffee and cake and we will hopefully have a roaring fire in the cottage to warm hands and feet before or after braving the garden. Admission will be £5 per adult. See findagarden.ngs.org.uk/ garden/20945/the-dower-house.

The National Garden Scheme gives all the money raised at garden openings across the country during the year to various charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Hospice UK, Marie Curie, The Carers Trust, Parkinson’s UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute. Last year £3.11 million was raised nationwide.

Local Events

Up to Saturday 25th February

Peaks & Moors Exhibition Creative Melbourne Gallery continue their first exhibition of 2023. Make sure to head along to view paintings and prints by a variety of artists including Giles Davies, Zara Lewis, Andrew Mason, Steven McLoughlin, Alison Wake and Peter Watson. The gallery is located at Wellington House, Church Street, Melbourne, DE73 8EJ and is open 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Saturday each week. See www.creativemelbourne.co.uk for details.

3rd, 5th, 6th, 10th, 12th, 13th, 17th & 19th

February

In the Steps of Servants

Tours lasting around 1 hour will be running twice a day at 11am and 1.30pm in the house at Calke Abbey. Follow in the footsteps of the people who made Calke tick. Discover the servant’s stories and the contributions they made to this great estate. Visit spaces specifically connected to the servants, such as laundries and the kitchen and some of the spaces not seen on the normal visitor route. No booking required. Spaces available on a first come first served basis. Free event (admission fees apply).

Sunday 5th February Craft Market

Yours 2 Mine Craft Markets will be hosting their

latest craft market at Melbourne Assembly Rooms, High Street, Melbourne, DE73 8GJ between 11am and 1pm. Browse for a bargain and be inspired by the variety of beautiful handcrafted items on sale from home décor to cards, paintings and prints to crafts and gifts or jewellery and accessories. Refreshments available.

Tuesday 7th to Friday 10th February Stepping Out

Richard Harris’s award-winning comedy Stepping Out is coming to Loughborough Town Hall with a top-class cast from The Festival Players. Stepping Out follows the lives of seven women and one man attempting to tap their troubles away at a weekly dancing class. Over the course of several months, we meet the group, and all of them have a story to tell. Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets cost £16. Book online at www. loughboroughtownhall.co.uk/events

Saturday 11th to Sunday 26th February

Half Term Lambing Event

Join the team at Manor Farm Park in East Leake, Loughborough for their lambing event this February half term. See newborn lambs born daily and enjoy a full day on the farm. Meet smaller animals in the Animal Chat Room. Say hello to the bigger animals out in the paddocks. Explore the indoor playbarn. The farm park is open daily from 10am to 5pm. See www.

manorfarm.info/events for further details and prices.

Monday 13th February

Local History Talk

Castle Donington Local History Society & Castle Donington Museum are continuing their series of fascinating local history talks. This month’s talk ‘Bitter is the Wind Tonight’ about Viking raiders or Viking traders will take place at Castle Donington Catholic Church, Castle Hill, Castle Donington, DE74 2LD from 7pm. £5 for members of either of the two organisations. £6 for nonmembers. All welcome. No need to book in advance.

Tuesday 14th February

Ticknall Garden Club

Ticknall Garden Club meet on the second Tuesday of each month in Ticknall Village Hall. Meetings begin at 7.30pm. Knowledgeable speakers cover a wide variety of topics of interest to experienced and not-so-experienced gardeners. The talks are followed by a social half-hour, with refreshments, when plants can often be purchased and gardening tips exchanged. This month sees the return of favourite Darren Rudge talking about ‘Plant Propagation Made Easy’. Members £2, visitors £4. See www.ticknallgardenclub.org.uk

Thursday 16th February Melbourne Footpaths Group

This local group meet one Thursday of each month and embark on a local walk in and around Melbourne, exploring the heart of the National Forest. This month’s walk will be a circular route beginning at Castle Square, Melbourne and will be a 5 mile walk. Meet at 10.30am. Email melbournepaths@gmail.com to book a place. A small donation is requested to cover Public Indemnity insurance and expenses improving local paths. See their Facebook page for all the latest news.

Monday 20th to Wednesday 22nd February

Tales from Acorn Wood Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories

are brought to life on stage for the first time at Derby Theatre in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience. Packed full of toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all the friends from Acorn Wood, this beautiful show from the team that brought you Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa promises to be the perfect treat for children of all ages. Show times 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets £16.50 adults, £14.50 under 16s. Book online at derbytheatre.co.uk/whats-on/

Thursday 23rd February Arena Sport Fest

Derby Arena will be hosting a family extravaganza of fun-packed games, fitness activities and a selection of enticing stalls. From 9am to 4pm enjoy a FREE Open day of fun filled family activities including Football For All Ages, Family Track Circuits, Open Track Tasters, First Pedal, Balance Bikes, Short Tennis, Pickleball, Badminton, Table Tennis, Trailblazers Basketball, Derbyshire Cricket. You will be sure to enjoy a marathon of sporting madness! See www. inderby.org.uk/events/whats-on/arena-sport-fest/

We always recommend you check with the event organiser before you visit to confirm details.

It’s FREE to feature your event on this page or on our website. Please submit your full event details online at www.castledoningtonlife. co.uk/submit-event.html. Deadline for submissions for the March issue is Thursday 16th February. Life Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. For any queries, please email info@ lifemagazines.co.uk

WIN a family afternoon of fun at Sunnyside Adventure!

Sunnyside Garden Centre

has been established on Leicester Road in Ibstock for many years but did you know that in 2022 they launched the brand new Sunnyside Adventure with the largest indoor adventure play frame in Leicestershire?

Their five floor play frame has more than 100 features to explore including a four lane Astra slide, a spiral slide, drop slide, blaster cannons, ball showers, cargo nets, tunnels and even a selfcontained football pitch. They also have separate areas for babies and toddlers.

They are open from 9am to 6pm daily with three sessions running from 9am to 11.45am, 12noon to 2.45pm and 3pm to 5.45pm.

The Adventure Cafe sells freshly made food and drinks for everyone to enjoy including an all day breakfast menu, jacket potatoes, paninis, hot dogs, stone baked pizza and kids snack boxes. All food is cooked fresh and to order.

Sunnyside Adventure is a great place to play, eat and relax. They also have party packages available to help you celebrate their big day with friends. You can find out more about Sunnyside Adventure and book a session online at www.sunnysideadventure.co.uk

WIN, WIN, WIN!

One lucky person could WIN a family voucher for two adults and two children for one play session plus food and drinks up to the value of £40. To be in with a chance of winning simply email competition@lifemagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘WIN with Sunnyside Adventure’ and let us know your name, address and contact telephone number. Be quick as you only have until midnight on Friday 24th February to enter. See www.castledoningtonlife.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

The winner will be entitled to one family voucher for two adults and two children for one Sunnyside Aventure play session and food and drink in the café up to the value of £40. The prize must be redeemed within six months of the closing date of 24th February 2023. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winners name will be published on our Facebook page. Multiple or automated entries are not allowed. We will not pass your details on to any third party. Terms and conditions apply.

Pets A vet for your pets

While our visits to the vet may be infrequent, it’s still important to want to feel as if the specialist you choose is as invested in your pet’s welfare as you are. So with that in mind, here are a selection of things to consider when it comes to choosing one who understands both your needs and those of your little buddy.

Word of mouth

Whether your passion is a dog, cat, budgerigar or Burmese python, pet owners are a social community and rarely shy away from sharing opinions, both positive and negative.

That means the pet parents among us will always be the best source for reviews, so rather than just believe the hype of some website marketing, jump on social media and see who is well rated locally.

Read the paw print

Pet healthcare is often pricey, and cost is the biggest factor we attach to our selecting of a vet. That means clarity is key when it comes to arranging healthcare for your dependent, so check detail and ensure the extent of potential fees. And of course, while it’s always wise to have pet insurance, ensure your vet is willing to co-operate with your policy holder to provide a seamless, stress-free service.

Listen to your animal instinct

The best care often means feeling comfortable and happy from the minute you walk in the door, so visit your prospective surgery and make sure it suits you and your pet.

Look out as well for a few tell-tale signs of the establishment’s commitment to the animals it treats. Are there clean bowls of water left out?

Perhaps you can spot blankets and toys for anxious animals? Are posters and information messages up to date? If all these boxes are ticked, it offers good signs your pet will be in good hands.

Follow the pack

It follows that a busy veterinary practice is generally a good sign that they offer decent care for reasonable prices. Therefore, as long they aren’t so oversubscribed that you can’t get an appointment, don’t be put off by a little paw traffic.

Stay on your turf

We all know that medical emergencies rarely fit a sociable timetable, and is vital to know that you can get your pet the help they need any time, day or night. This not only means choosing a practice you can get to easily, but also one that offers emergency care without you having to venture too far afield.

Club

Ockbrook Photographic Club meet monthly, mixing face to face practical meetings in the Parish Hall, 60 Church Street, Ockbrook, Derby with occasional Zoom presentations from leading photographers. Their two-hour meetings are held on the first Monday of the month at 7pm. The aim of the club is simply to help all members enjoy and progress their photography, while gaining enjoyment from the photo-making process, sharing images and socialising with fellow enthusiasts.

They are a small friendly, non-competitive club who share knowledge to help members to achieve their goals. Members develop each other’s skills with constructive comments, advice and encouragement.

As well as monthly club nights, the club also enjoys regular field trips to locations and events in Derbyshire and surrounding areas. Once or twice a year there is the opportunity to join members in a three or four-night photo-trip to other parts of the UK. Recent trips include

Derwent Water, Alnmouth and in October 2022 a group visited Whitby on the Yorkshire coast for Goth Weekend.

Want to know more? Visit their website at: https:// ockbrookphoto.co.uk/ or email info@ockbrookphoto. co.uk. Alternatively visit their Facebook page: Ockbrook Photo Club (Derby and Nottingham).

New members are most welcome, nothing is required other than an enthusiasm to develop your photography and your first meeting is free.

If you would like to share details of your local community group with our readers then please email info@lifemagazines.co.uk to find out more.

Lisa Faulkner’s Choux Hearts With Berries

Having met her now husband, John Torode, on the 2010 series of Celebrity MasterChef – on which he was a judge and she a contestant – Lisa Faulkner knows full well that food is the language of love. So, what better way to woo your beloved on Valentine’s Day than with these stunning choux hearts?

Method

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Put the butter and water in a medium saucepan, add the salt and sugar, and bring to the boil. Ensure the butter is melted. Remove from the heat, add the sifted flour all at once and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes away from the sides of the pan. Return to the heat and cook for 2 minutes until the paste is pale. Cool a little.

2 Add the beaten eggs, a little at a time, incorporating fully with a wooden spoon after

each addition. The mixture will go glossy then back to dull. Add the eggs until the mixture is shiny again and it just drops off the wooden spoon. Cool the mixture for about 10 minutes. Put in a piping bag and pipe heart shapes on to a baking sheet dampened with a little water.

3 Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes then reduce the temperature to 160°C, gas mark 3, and bake for a further 15-20 minutes until golden.

4 Pour the cream into a chilled bowl and whisk, either by hand or with a hand mixer, until stiff peaks form. This may take a few minutes.

5 When cooked, turn the hearts over and pop back into the oven for 2 minutes to dry out a little. Split each heart in half horizontally and then spoon or pipe the whipped cream on the base. Top with the other half and fill the centre with the fruit. Serve immediately.

Ingredients (makes 8)

For the choux pastry

• 90g butter

• 360ml water

• pinch salt

• pinch sugar

• 110g plain flour, sifted

• 3 whole eggs, beaten well

To serve

• 500ml double cream

• 400g mixed fresh berries

Top Tip:

Be careful not to overwhip your cream. As soon as you have firm peaks (you should be able to hold the bowl over your head without it spilling out!) you should stop.

If berries aren’t your thing use whatever fruit you prefer… mango and passion fruit, for example.

DESIGN

Starters

CRISPY FRIED HALLOUMI

5.50 V

Chunky halloumi fries, fried in a crisp tempura batter� Served with a chilli jam & salad garnish

CALAMARI 6.50

Seasoned calamari rings Served with a sharp tartare sauce & salad garnish

FISH GOUJONS

Lightly battered, bitesize fillets of cod� Served with a sharp tartare sauce & salad garnish

Salads

All our salads have an option of house dressing or an olive oil & balsamic dressing

HOUSE SALAD 6.95 V Green leaf mixed salad with tomato, onion, cucumber & pepper�

GREEK HOUSE SALAD 8.95 V

Our House Salad with a Greek twist, an addition of mixed olives and Feta cheese

HALLOUMI HOUSE SALAD 11.95 V Our House Salad with the addition of lightly fried Halloumi�

Burgers

All burgers are served with Chunky Chips, Homemade Onion Rings & Salad Garnish�

CLASSIC 6oz BEEF BURGER 11.95 Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with smoky BBQ sauce, streaky bacon, Monterey jack cheese, lettuce, tomato & onion

FISH FILLET BURGER

12.95 Chunky fillet of Cod Loin, cooked in a crispy light batter Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with tartare sauce & a dollop of mushy peas

HALLOUMI BURGER 11.95 V Served in a toasted brioche bun, topped with chilli jam, lettuce, tomato & onion

Kebabs

All kebabs are served with Tzatziki on a Gyros Flatbread, accompanied by a salad selection, Mint Yoghurt & Sweet Chilli dip

CHICKEN TIKKA 11.95 Mildly spiced chicken skewered & cooked on a chargrill Served with Chunky Chips

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN

11.95 Lightly flavoured Lemon & garlic chicken skewered & cooked on a chargrill Served with Chunky Chips

Fully licensed bar serving soft and alcoholic drinks

Can you help us grow the Forest?

Here in the National Forest, we’re working to create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for everyone, by creating more natural spaces for people to connect with nature, planting woodland habitats that will help wildlife to thrive, and providing new opportunities for businesses. However, we need the support of our communities, businesses, and landowners in the Forest to continue to make this happen. That’s why we offer a range of grant schemes to help create and manage the Forest across a variety of work areas, from tree planting and habitat creation to tourism and health and wellbeing.

For landowners in the Forest, our forest creation grant schemes, can provide funding to cover, design, planning, and up to 100% of the implementation costs of the creation of new woodlands and other habitats, helping you to increase the potential of your land through better yields and new diversification opportunities, reduced flooding and soil loss, and increased nutrient recycling.

Our Freewoods grant scheme supports the creation of woodlands from as little as 0.25 hectares and woodland blocks can be as small as 0.1 hectares, making them easier to fit into a busy farm, whilst our Changing Landscapes scheme is for projects and woodland creation of 1 hectare or more. We can support environmental and biodiversity improvements through the creation and management of habitats such as meadows, wetlands, ponds, parkland, and hedges. The grant also supports paths, roading, signage, community engagement, and public access. Our Parkland scheme support projects as little as 0.25 hectares

and three trees and offers an easy way to make a difference as wood pasture is a UK and National Forest priority habitat.

Or perhaps you’re a group leader or wellbeing organisation? Our Forest Society grant aims to support the health and well-being of residents and communities within the National Forest, using local woodlands to harness the well-being benefits of spending time outdoors. This year we’re looking to award between five and seven grants of £1,000 and £5,000 with a particular interest in supporting innovative projects that connect people with nature to support their mental health resilience, and those focusing on young people aged 11-18. The deadline for applications for this grant is Monday, 13th February 2023.

Last year we introduced our Sustainable Tourism Grant to support businesses with their continued recovery from the pandemic, and to encourage them to invest wisely now to create a greener future for the sector. The second round of grants will reopen this month, so keep an eye on our website for further updates on this.

If you’re a landowner, organisation, or community group in the National Forest and would like to support our work, you can find out more about our grant schemes and check if you’re eligible for funding by visiting our website or emailing grants@nationalforest.org

Focus on Crocus

The spring crocus is so joyous. They are hardy and perennial so they will keep coming back each year. The leaves are small and die down in late spring disappearing completely so no residual messy leaves are left. Crocus prefer conditions that are free draining rather than waterlogged and can be great for pots and rockeries as well as planting in drifts in the grass or under trees. Generally, they like to be in a sunny aspect.

There are various types of crocus. My favourites are any of the species and hybrids that naturalise well. This means that the number of flowers will multiply year on year and are such good value for money. This group of crocus tend to flower quite early, between January and March, depending on the weather. The size of flower will depend upon the exact variety but the height will be 4 - 10cm. For a white flower with an egg-yoke yellow centre choose crocus ‘Malyi’, it’s very reliable.

For a shock of orange crocus ‘Orange Monarch’ has the Award of Garden Merit (AGM). A stunningly beautiful pale lilac one is crocus ‘De Jager’. This has a light lavender petals with a violet strip in the centre, and the outer petals are very slightly tinged yellow, very beautiful indeed. If you are after a strong deep dark purple then I suggest crocus ‘Ruby Giant’. For a blast of different colours, purple, white and yellow all

Other Jobs in the garden

within one flower, then the easy to remember ‘Tricolour’ is the one for you.

There is a group of crocus known as ‘Large Dutch Flowering’ which are reliably bigger, being 10-12cm tall and are particularly useful for pots and window boxes because they show up above the rim of the pot. These tend to flower a little later, usually in March. From this group there is a yellow variety with the AGM badge called ‘Golden Yellow’. One of the loveliest white forms of all crocus falls within this Large Dutch Flowering group and it is beautifully named Crocus ‘Joan of Arc’; its petals are just pure white. Crocus ‘Pickwick’ is another large variety and is unusual because its petals are silvery white and veined with purple.

To seek a wider and more unusual range of colours the chrysanthus varieties are definitely worth investigating. In particular the Crocus ‘Blue Pearl’ will astonish you with the bright beauty of its light blue petals and pearly blue insides set off with a yellow centre.

Happy gardening.

By local garden designer, Francesca Sinclair

For bespoke contemporary and traditional garden design www.francescasinclair.co.uk 07901 547 360

February wines

This month what can we do but look at some winter warmers? Kick back in front of the fire and enjoy!

False Bay ‘Old School’ Syrah, South Africa

False Bay wines really are great value. The grapes for False Bay Old School Syrah (Shiraz) stem primarily from two vineyards in Stellenbosch. The attraction to these coastal vineyards were the cooler temperatures and low yields of small, naturally balanced and concentrated berries meaning these wines punch above their weight. Full yet elegant with bramble fruits and also some earthy and meaty aromas. Ideal with spicy dishes, red meats and rich Mediterranean dishes.

Uggiano Chianti Riserva ‘La Scoperta’, Italy

This is a well-structured and complex wine with a different dimension and soft fruit on the palate. Fermentation extracts colour and tannin from the skins and after around 2 weeks, the wine is racked to large oak casks for 6 months resulting in vibrant black fruit aromas with a touch of spice. On the palate you’ll be treated to layers of ripe plum, blackcurrant and juicy black cherry with balanced spicy and developed flavours and a bright acidity on the finish. Enjoy with rich casseroles and roast meats.

Smalltown Vineyards Knock Knock Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia

Just what you’d expect from a fullbodied, top quality Barossa Valley Shiraz. The wine is aged for 22 months in a variety of French and American oak barrels allowing the fruit to shine, developing a typical deep colour, dense sweet black berry fruits on the nose with a lovely savoury almost meaty character with hints of black pepper and a long, rich, toasty oak finish. Food matching is easy, just buy some top-quality red meat, don't mess with it and enjoy a perfect marriage!

Raats Family Wines, Dolomite, Stellenbosch, South Africa

A Bordeaux style wine blend that the French need to watch! As part of the new wave of South African winemakers, Raats crafts soil specific wines that are world class and embody the unique characteristics of the region. Dolomite wines express great purity of fruit and balanced elegance. The nose shows dark and red cherry. Dark berries, spiciness and herbs linger on the palate. The wine has great purity of fruit with a hint of wet-stone minerality and a velvet soft finish. Great with game bird, beef fillet and pork loin. This beauty recently featured in Wine Merchant Magazines top 100 wines in 2022!!!

If you’re looking for further recommendations on new wines to try give Karl a call on 07970 122501 or pop into the store on Borough Street – he’s always happy to chat all things wine! You can order online at www.thehonestwinecompanyltd.co.uk

Community Board

Melbourne Area Derby u3a Retired or semi-retired? Time on your hands?

Melbourne Area Derby u3a is open to anyone no longer in full-time employment living in villages and towns near Melbourne. Its members run more than 20 interest groups, ranging from art appreciation to walking, bridge to photography. Volunteers also organise a monthly meeting with guest speakers and hold social events and trips. Join now for just £18 until March 2024. To find out more email madu3ainfo@gmail.com or visit the website www.u3asites.org.uk/melbourne-area

Contemporary Adult Community Choir

Do you enjoy singing, socialising and performing? If you are looking to join a choir in Castle Donington then Got2Sing are ready to welcome you. The choir meet every Monday at 7.15pm at Castle Donington College, Mount Pleasant, Castle Donington, DE74 2LN. Experience the joy of singing while making new friends. You can find out more or book a free taster session online at www.got2sing.co.uk

Local Litter Picking – Can you help?

Did you know that Castle Donington Litter Wombles now have over 170 members on their Facebook page. Why not follow them and see how you can help to keep our local area clean and tidy? As well as organising group litter picks the team also share advice on how you can help with solo picks and log full bags for collection. They can answer any questions you may have on getting involved. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise and help our local community.

Chat-tea Minds

LLR Mind is running a free drop-in café on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from

12.30pm to 2.30pm at The Community Hub on Bondgate for the residents of Castle Donington and surrounding areas. Chat-tea Minds offers a warm and friendly space in which you can meet new people, find out more about local services and learn about what is happening in your local area. Your first drink is free and snacks and other drinks are available to buy on site. No booking is necessary, just drop in and say hello.

Long Eaton & Sawley Foodbank

As part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by the Trussell Trust, the Long Eaton & Sawley Foodbank work to combat poverty and hunger within our local community. They provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to them in crisis. There are so many ways to help them offer this vital support. Could you spare a few hours to help out at the foodbank giving out food parcels? Could you donate food? Donations can be left at Tesco and Asda in Long Eaton or Long Eaton library. Finally, you could make a one off donation or set up a regular gift. For details of all options please see https://longeatonsawley. foodbank.org.uk/

Castle Donington Museum

Are you thinking about doing something different this year, perhaps meeting new people and feeling a part of something? New volunteers would be very welcome at Castle Donington Museum - everyone has a skill to offer. Ideally, volunteers would join the Museum’s weekly working session, held from 10am to 12.30pm every Tuesday at the Museum on Apiary Gate, Castle Donington. However, this is not vital. If you’d like to know more, email info@ castledoningtonmuseum.com

Did you know you can put community information on this page free of charge (subject to space)? So, whether you are looking for new members, volunteers or just have some information that you’d like to let local people know about simply email the details over to us at info@lifemagazines.co.uk We’d love to hear from you.

Energy E ciency in your Home

As we get into the swing of things in 2023, the market certainly seems to be hotting up. Enquiries are up across the board and things are starting to get moving after the natural slowdown we saw at the end of 2022. Of course, throughout the winter we have regularly received questions from landlords, tenants and homeowners about how they can reduce the overall cost of their household energy bills.

The Office for National Statistics have stated that two thirds of Britons have reported using less gas and electric this winter in a bid to reduce their energy costs. But aside from turning lights off and wearing more layers we wanted to give some tips and advice on ways to mitigate rising costs as we come out of winter and into the warmer months.

• Check your meters and make sure you’re on the most efficient tariff. It goes without saying that making sure you’re not overpaying for your energy is a good way to save money. Regularly checking the market to ensure you’re getting the best deal is always worth doing.

• Smart meters can be a very good way of monitoring your energy usage. However, pay as you go meters will usually cost more overall to run so contact your energy supplier to see if you’re eligible for a smart meter in the property.

• Make sure you are receiving the government’s support with energy bills. Worth £400 in total, this should be applied to your bills by your energy supplier. If you have not been receiving this, make sure you contact your supplier.

• For homeowners and landlords, ensuring the property is well insulated, double glazed and has a modern heating system is a long term way to improve the overall energy efficiency of the property. Of course, improvement works like this can be costly so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss the options available.

Sue Anderson of the debt charity Stepchange has said that “even with the government support, many will be struggling to pay their energy bills, which rose sharply last year, particularly as the colder weather took hold. If you can’t afford to pay, contact your energy company as early as possible and ask them if you can pay at a rate you can afford. You can also ask for details of grants or hardship funds they have available. Energy companies have a regulatory responsibility to help customers who are experiencing financial difficulty.”

As ever, we’re here to help so if you need to talk about your property and its energy efficiency then don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Question Time with FISHERS SOLICITORS

The hardest part of getting a divorce is often working out the financial arrangements. The Courts encourage you to agree on these yourselves but will get involved if that isn’t possible. These arrangements usually go together with your childcare agreement so emotions can run high. The aim is to ensure that everything is divided fairly and that your children’s needs are met. Here’s our guide to the factors a Court will look at so that you can try to work things out for yourself.

What will you need in the future?

One of the main aims of a financial arrangement in divorce is to give you a clean break. You need to consider what you’ll both need in the future. If the children are going to live with one parent most of the time that could mean that they keep the marital home. The other might need funds to find somewhere else to live unless you’re moving in with a new partner.

What do your children need?

In a divorce, the children’s needs always come first. Your financial arrangement will go hand in hand with your childcare arrangements.

It’s important to look at your children’s living costs, childcare, and other things such as holidays and after-school activities when working out how much you’ll each need to take care of them.

What’s your earning capacity?

Each partner’s earning capacity and potential earning capacity are important when it comes to your financial arrangement. If you’re both

relatively young and working full-time then a clean break can be easy.

The Court will also look at any future assets you might receive, for example, inheritances, business income or pension income. If you have a pension but your partner doesn’t it’s worth considering giving them additional assets to balance things up.

Your contribution to married life

As a married couple, you worked together to build a life. That could mean that one of you worked full-time while the other took care of the children. The Court considers this to be an equal contribution to the marriage and they’ll award financial assets accordingly. It’s important to remember that if you’re trying to reach an agreement yourselves, it might mean giving up assets that you consider yours to make things fair, for example, an inheritance from your side of the family or money you earned before you met.

How have you both behaved?

It’s a common myth that where one spouse has committed adultery or behaved badly, the other will keep most of the assets. This isn’t generally true, but this can happen in rare cases.

Financial arrangements after divorce can be complex so it’s important to get professional advice. If you need help agreeing on a financial settlement, find out more and contact us today: https://www.fisherslaw.co.uk/family-law/

If you have a question for “Question time with Fishers Solicitors” please send it to enquiries@fisherslaw.co.uk your trusted legal advisers

Or speak to Andrew Robinson, Head of Family Law

I am getting divorced, how can I sort out the financial arrangements with my husband?

John Torode’s Tru ed Macaroni And Smoked Haddock Bake

Want something that combines supreme comfort with a little decadence this Valentine’s Day? Well look no further than this divine truffled macaroni dish with an extra boost from smoked haddock, created by MasterChef’s John Torode.

Method 1 Blend together all the ingredients for the breadcrumbs in a food processor until roughly chopped, season, then set aside. Boil the macaroni one minute less than the time on the pack, drain, toss in the olive oil and set aside.

2 Tip the onion, milk and the smoked haddock into a pan, and season. Simmer gently for 10 mins, then remove the haddock. Flake the flesh and drizzle with the truffle oil and set aside.

3 Mix the butter and flour together to make a paste. Over a low heat, whisk the paste into the hot milk and bring to the boil, stirring all the time. Remove from the heat and add half the grated cheese and stir well.

4 Take the pan off the heat, tip the pasta into the sauce and mix well, then fold through the haddock and season with ground black pepper. The

Ingredients (serves 8)

For the macaroni

• 250g macaroni

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 500ml milk

• 300g smoked haddock

• 1 tbsp truffle oil

• 50g soft butter, plus extra for the dish

• 25g plain flour

• 100g gruyère, coarsely grated

For the breadcrumbs

• 50g white breadcrumbs

• small pack parsley, leaves picked

• small thyme sprig, leaves picked

• small pack tarragon, leaves picked

• 1 garlic clove, roughly chopped

• small piece of butter

• drizzle of truffle oil, plus extra to serve

sauce may seem a little thin, but it’ll thicken as it cooks. Butter a large ovenproof dish and tip in all the macaroni (I like it piled high), then finish by scattering over the rest of the cheese and most of the breadcrumbs. This can be prepared a day ahead, covered and kept in the fridge.

5 To cook, heat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark

6. Bake for 20 mins until bubbling and sprinkle with the rest of the breadcrumbs. Bake for five minutes more, then drizzle a little more truffle oil on top, and scatter some extra herbs, if you like.

Please mention CASTLE DONINGTON LIFE when responding to adverts

A warm welcome

February can be a difficult month to get through. We are all getting a bit fed up with the winter weather and being wet and/or cold.

I often work from home, but I am worried about the cost of my gas central heating so I sit at my kitchen table with multiple layers on and a hot water bottle on my lap as I watch the temperature on the thermostat drop down to about 12 degrees.

I am not alone. This is an issue faced by households across Derbyshire. It is particularly worrying for people on low incomes that are home during the day and who may need to keep the house warm due to having young children, a medical condition made worse by the cold or are elderly.

Village halls and community buildings have stepped up, with some funding support from Derbyshire County Council, to provide ‘Warm Hubs’. These informal sessions welcome in anyone and everyone from the local area to share the warm space and enjoy the company of others. There are often activities for a variety of age groups and of course the essential hot drinks and biscuits.

I would urge you to seek out a Warm Hub in your local area and go along. Maybe you could volunteer to help run the sessions or just enjoy the company and give your own central heating a rest.

Here is a list of Warm Hubs in South Derbyshire from the DCC website, but I am sure there are others that are not on the list. If there isn’t one in your area, why not

think about setting one up and applying for funding?

• Rosliston Warm Hub, The Bulls Head, 19 Burton Road, Rosliston, DE12 8JU, 01283 362780, warm space and hot drink on Wednesdays from 2.30pm to 4.30pm

• Warm Lounge, Emmanuel Church Hall, Swadlincote, DE11 8LF, Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm

• Warm Welcome, The Salvation Army Swadlincote, 181 Wilmot Road, Church Gresley, DE11 9BN 01283 216264, warm space and hot drink on Mondays from 1pm to 5pm

• St Helen’s Church, Church Hill, Etwall, DE65 6LW, Wednesdays from 1pm to 4pm

Rural Action Derbyshire has created a Facebook group so that all those involved with Warm Hubs can share suggestions and their own experiences to help others who might be just starting out. facebook.com/groups/warmhubsforum

If you are part of a community building committee, why not sign up your hall to our Village Halls & Community Buildings Membership Scheme. At just £1.73 per week you will have access to a range of specialist support and advice. Drop me an email or give me a call.

Emma Simpson

e.simpson@ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk 01629 592 970 / 07540 736 118

Could give this bundle of hope the best start in life?

Can you help a puppy to become an amazing assistance dog, to transform the life of someone with disabilities?

We are looking for dedicated people with the time and energy to care, socialise and give basic training to one of our future assistance dogs.

This is a rewarding voluntary role, caring for a puppy from 8 weeks to between 14-18 months. You will learn new skills, make new friends, and be supported every step of the way.

You will receive a puppy starter pack, plus all the puppy’s food and vet bills will be covered.

One of the most rewarding things you could ever do for yourself, for the puppy, and for a person with disabilities, join us as a Puppy Parent volunteer.

Canine

Lockington-Hemington Parish Council

Village Improvements

Lockington Bridge Flooding has again been reported to LCC Highways. A CCTV survey has been carried out to identify the root cause so a solution to the problem can be identified and implemented. We await the results.

A formal order has been made for new play equipment for Lockington Play area which also includes new fencing. This work is planned to start this month. Final plans and funding applications for Hemington play area are now a priority.

We are looking to identify either sponsorship or volunteers to maintain the planters which have been installed in recent years at the entry road signs within the villages. Anyone interested should email - Clerk@hemlock.org.uk.

The Speedwatch Programme has started with signage around the Parish. This is in conjunction with NWLDC, further details will become available on the activity as we progress.

Community & Sports Pavilion

Work has re-commenced with scaffolding now in place after delays at the end of 2022. An additional £39k grant has been secured from Tarmac and a funding decision by the Football Foundation is expected in January. Assuming this happens, full completion is scheduled to be ahead of the 2023/2024 football season.

Village Hall

Work has started to tidy the external overgrown areas around the Village Hall. Progress is weather dependent with levelling and new surfacing should be completed around Spring 2023.

The hall is available for booking through the clerk - clerk@hemlock.org.uk or via the Lockington Village Hall webpage.

Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery & Toys

Ashby Bears 46 Mick Lakin 19

The Oliove Branch Toy Shop 8 Charities

Canine Partners 41

Childcare, Clubs, Schools & Tuition

Derby High School 3

George Platt - Saxopohone Tuition 8 Titchy Town & Hero Town 47

Trent College & The Elms 11 Chiropodists

Ashby Chiropody & Podiatrists

Clinic 33

Cleaning, Ironing & Laundry Services

Chellaston Carpet Cleaners 39 Dental Services

Beautiful Dentures 33

Estate Agents & Housing

Cameron Homes 23

Martin & Co 48

Events & Attractions

Stags Head Events 19 Food & Drink

The Honest Wine Company Ltd 31

Garden Design & Maintenance

Arctic Cabins Ltd 29

Charnwood Tree Services 43 E D Paving 8 Home & Interiors

Birch Bedrooms Ltd 39

Derby Bed Centre 13

Gliderobes Ltd 45

Golden Kite Trading 33

Hambleton Interiors 9 Kitchen & Bathroom

Dream Doors Derby 40

Elite Spray Tech 37 Holme Tree 5 Locksmiths

Hazlewood Locksmiths 39

Misc / Notices

Straw Dog Records 33 Motoring

Allen’s Autocare 42

Auto Line MOT Centre 21 Chips Away 40 Pet Services

Annie the Dog Trainer 19

Dovecote Veterinary Hospital 19 Places of Worship

St Edward’s Church 7

Plumbing, Heating & Gas Services

Gas Assist Heating and Plumbing 46 Pubs, Restaurants & Takeaways

Donington Fish Bar 24 & 25

The Priest House 2 Solicitors & Will Writers

Fishers Solicitors 35

LevLaw Ltd 31 Windows & Doors

Capital Windows Derby Ltd 20 Castle Donington UPVC 31

Welcome to

Interactive role play centres based in South Derbyshire

Titchy Town and Hero Town are both indoor play villages designed especially for little ones up to 8 years of age. Children can freely explore the many different play zones in both villages. The villages are designed to allow children’s imagination to run wild whilst they role play in a safe environment.

Grown-ups can participate in their child’s play, or just sit back and watch them learn whilst enjoying a mug of freshly brewed tea or coffee and an amazing homemade cake from our little coffee shop.

Where are we?

Titchy Town is based on the site of Scallywags Private Day Nursey in Chellaston (Rowallan Way, DE73 5WX). Hero Town is based on the site of Scallywags Private Day Nursery in Melbourne (Castle Lane, DE73 8JB). Please use Scallywags car park at both sites. You will find signage in both car parks on how to access the centres.

How it works?

Titchy Town Play Village

Hero Town Play Village

Looking to move in ?

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