Live Preston & Fylde Issue 116 October 2023

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 116

ROCK ON TOMMY

STAR’S LYTHAM SHOW

MELANOMA MISSION

FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

HOTEL HEAVEN

RIBBY HALL LEGEND

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

PRESTON COURTS UPGRADES

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CONTENTS 12

F E AT U R E S 12 R OCKING ON IN LYTHAM The legendary Tommy Cannon, of Cannon and Ball fame, returns to the Lowther Pavilion Theatre with his variety show full of anecdotes, fun and laughter.

70 A MELANOMA MISSION Lytham’s David Uttley is determined to raise money and awareness for melanoma. He has completed a couple of hair-raising fundraisers so far. Read about his cancer journey.

MOST IMPERIAL REIGN 78 A Discover a most regal and historic hotel that has sat proudly on Blackpool’s North Promenade since 1867 and offers a fascinating wealth of history and famous guests.

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ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Preston’s parks have received funding to upgrade their tennis provision with a family fun day held to launch and enjoy the completed Moor Park courts.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 50 FASHION 58 HEALTH & BEAUTY 70 LIFESTYLE 87 EDUCATION 92 BUSINESS 95 MOTORS 104 SPORT 106 FOOD & DRINK

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124 ARTS & CULTURE 127 PROPERTY

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LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Alma Stewart Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Photography: Peter Austin, Robin Lyndon, Roger Moore and Kirsten Platt Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Bowyer, Tim Dixon, Meena McDonald, Scott Schiavone, Claire Stephenson, Sarah Ulyatt, Alan Veale and Jan Woolley Live Magazines Limited Office 9, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465 live@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Barton, Bretherton, Broughton, Buckshaw Village, Cottam, Croston, Eaves, Elswick, Garstang, Great Eccleston, Freckleton, Fulwood, Hutton, Kirkham, Little Eccleston, Longton, Lytham, Much Hoole, New Longton, Newton with Scales, Penwortham, Warton, Wesham, Whittle-le-Woods and Wrea Green.

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Live

Magazines Editor Hello and welcome to the latest issue of Live Preston & Fylde magazine!

With this year zipping by so quickly, we now find ourselves in the midst of the Halloween month and no doubt digging out our warmer clothes and boots in preparation for autumnal weather. Luckily, we highlight some weather-appropriate fashion within these pages!

In this issue, we meet Tommy Cannon, of Cannon and Ball fame, as he prepares for his variety show at the Lowther Pavilion Theatre this month. He reflects on the loss of one of Lytham’s favourite residents, Bobby Ball and describes the thrill of his new song release.

We also discover the amazing history of one of Blackpool’s most handsome hotels and the unearthing of a treatment room created in times gone by. You may well be astounded by some of its famous visitors over the years.

Elsewhere, we find out more about Ribby Hall’s longest serving employee and his fascinating career within the Wrea Green holiday village, recording its growth and success along the way.

October is also the time to get Christmas plans underway and so we discover some great ideas for yuletide fun as well as some exciting events to get involved in.

If tennis is your passion, we learn about the recent upgrades to the courts housed in Preston’s parks, encouraging the whole family to get involved.

So, whatever it is you are doing this month, be sure to support our local businesses – many of whom have some great autumn and Halloween themed events, displays and very fine goods. And what better way than to sign up to the local loyalty scheme also featured this issue.

Happy reading!

Alma Stewart Editor

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 116

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 115

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 144

ROCK ON TOMMY

WARMING UP

STAR’S LYTHAM SHOW

AUTUMN FASHION

HONOURING THE PAST

DESIGNER & SCULPTOR JOHN EVERISS

TAKING CENTRE STAGE

THEATRE DIRECTOR ELIN SCHOFIELD

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION

CLITHEROE’S HIDDEN NATURE RESERVE

FIELDS OF DREAMS

FYLDE’S SPECIAL PLACE

JUST FOR THE RECORD

ICONIC MUSIC SHOP

A BRIEF ENCOUNTER

PRESTON ARTS FESTIVAL

RUGBY LOVE

SPORT SUPPORT

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley

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MELANOMA MISSION

FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

HOTEL HEAVEN

RIBBY HALL LEGEND

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

PRESTON COURTS UPGRADES

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ROCKING ON IN LYTHAM

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hose of a certain age will remember the great Saturday night prime time TV shows watched and enjoyed by all the family. One of the best was the Cannon and Ball Show which, at its height, reached 20 million viewers. For more than a decade, the programme provided every glorious type of entertaining magnetism: comedy, music, special guests, and for many the show was the highlight of the week.

Tommy Cannon and Bobby Ball rose to dizzy heights in their 50+ year showbiz career embracing TV, film, summer seasons, jokes, songs and acting – not bad for a couple of welders from Oldham.

Sadly in 2020, Bobby, who lived in Lytham with wife Yvonne for many years, died of Covid in Blackpool Victoria, a hospital where he was the charity patron. It was a loss that resonated with the whole nation with a host of notable tributes pouring in from the great and good of the entertainment world along with the host of fans and local friends Bob had made over his 76 years.

SOMETIMES I’M OK WITH IT, SOMETIMES I’M NOT. I DO GET TEARY AT TIMES AND LOOK ROUND FOR HIM, BUT I JUST PLOUGH ON After such a long career as one half of a double act, Tommy has had to adjust to performing solo. He said: “Sometimes I’m OK with it, sometimes I’m not. I do get teary at times and look round for him, but I just plough on.”

Returning to the adopted town of his late double act partner, Bobby Ball, Tommy Cannon will be performing at the Lowther Pavilion Theatre in October in Rock On Tommy: An Evening with Tommy Cannon featuring clips, incredible stories, tons of laughter, audience Q&As and more. Alma Stewart chats with Tommy about his fascinating career and life after the loss of his comedy partner and best pal

This is not the first time that Tommy has performed without Bobby. He joined forces with Bobby’s sons, The Harper Brothers, in Rock On! The Variety Show in honour of Bobby and appeared in one man shows across the country. He has also just completed a tour in Legends of Variety with Anita Harris, Bernie Clifton, Freddie Davies, The Grumbleweeds and Paul Zenon. But it’s not just live performances he is involved with.

In September, he released a Sinatra-style song ‘I Don’t Need To Be Hip’, impressively, written

by Robbie Williams’ song writers. Tommy said: “As a singer, I’m really grateful that my voice is still the same as it was in my twenties.

Frank Sinatra is one of my all-time favourite singers so how could I turn down Robbie’s offer of this song? Robbie and I have met at different times and periods over the years and we have kept in touch. I’ll be telling the full story of how the song came about in my show at the Lowther.”

And that won’t be the only story told at the show. Tommy has decades of anecdotes to share. He continued: “Everything we achieved was a highlight for us. I never thought I was destined for decades in show business. There were many times Bob and I had to pinch ourselves. I was honoured to meet Frankie Laine and Bob was overawed at meeting Little Richard, but there were so many fantastic people we encountered along the way – we did everything!”

With a dedicated number of stalwart fans, Tommy and the Cannon and Ball legacy still continues. Tommy explained: “It’s still a surprise when people come up to me and

describe their favourite sketch. Sometimes I have to look up something on YouTube because there is so much to remember! I was speaking to a young chap recently, describing our act – he’d never heard of us. I suggested he have a look on YouTube, which he did and said, ‘My god that was funny’. And that was the thing about Bob. He was naturally funny, a comic, not a comedian. He was the modern-day Charlie Chaplin.”

LYTHAM IS A LOVELY PLACE, IT’S AN IDYLLIC SEASIDE TOWN AND THE AUDIENCES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN WELCOMING AND ENGAGING Following Bobby’s passing, the Bobby Ball Foundation was created to support some local charities. Fundraising efforts allowed the commission of a nine-foot statue of Bobby, created by sculptor Ben Twiston-Davies and unveiled in August 2022, which stands proudly in the Lowther Gardens. “That is Bob in a nutshell,” said Tommy, “the only thing missing is the red of his braces.” Visitors to the statue will note that on closer inspection, Bobby is standing on a plinth that is actually the end of a cannon. Tommy was a proud guest at the unveiling ceremony along with Yvonne and Bobby’s children, friends, fans and special guests including actresses Sally Lindsay and Sherrie Hewson and comedian Lee Mack.

Of course, Tommy is no stranger to the Fylde Coast. For many years, Cannon and Ball

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localfocus

performed at most of Blackpool’s theatres and venues and the town in which the pair made their last performance. Tommy has visited Lytham many times over the years and has previously performed at the Lowther Theatre: “Lytham is a lovely place,” he said, “it’s a really idyllic seaside town and the audiences have always been welcoming and engaging. I’m looking forward to performing here again.” He will also return over the next few months to attend the next ‘Bobby Ball’ a fundraising dinner held to raise funds for the Bobby Ball Foundation. Raising money for charity has been an important for both Cannon and Ball with Tommy an ambassador for York’s Snappy Trust, supporting children with disabilities and patron of Stockport’s NK Theatre Arts.

THERE’S NOT MUCH I HAVEN’T DONE, BUT I’M OPEN TO SUGGESTION In recent years, Tommy has featured in some top TV shows including I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, Emmerdale, Celebrity MasterChef, Not Going Out and Last Laugh in Vegas no mean feat from Cannon and Ball’s TV debut on Opportunity Knocks in 1968. The duo also performed in two Royal Variety Shows and even met the late Queen Elizabeth II. And so, following full and successful show business career, what comes next for the 85 year-old? “There’s not much I haven’t done,” he said, “but I’m open to suggestion.”

The show being held at the Lowther Pavilion Theatre on Sunday 15th October promises to be an evening full of fun and variety and will include dance and song.

Tommy’s memories and stories will no doubt have the audience in stitches. Tommy added: “It’s been a slow process getting used to not having Bob there anymore, but I know he’ll be there in spirit as well as in my memories of him which I will share as part of the show.”

Let’s hope the audience gets the opportunity to join in with Cannon and Ball’s iconic song, Together We’ll Be OK, because together, they always were. n

Tickets available online at: lowtherpavilion.co.uk

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WITNESS WATCHMAKING MASTERY A timepiece haven in the centre of Preston delivering excellence for more than 150 years. Claire Stephenson explores Whittles Preston where luxury meets exceptional service

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ituated on Preston’s main high street, Whittles is a fourth-generation family-owned business, established in 1862 and now part of the esteemed Beaverbrooks Group. The showroom is an Official Rolex Retailer for the Preston, Fylde, Ribble Valley and Cumbria regions and now proudly offers a new Authorised Rolex Service Centre. Here, clients can bring their precious timepieces for servicing and repairs completed

by Whittles’ expert team of Rolex-trained watchmakers.

WITNESS SERVICING MASTERY IN ACTION

Inside the Authorised Rolex Service Centre, watch owners can observe from the glassfronted viewing facility and witness first-hand the craftsmanship of the four Rolex-trained watchmakers at work. It is from this vantage point that clients can gain a deeper appreciation for the expertise and knowledge that goes into preserving a Rolex timepiece.

With an impressive 78 years of experience between them, Whittles is committed to continuous learning and development.

The watchmakers regularly participate in

specialised courses to remain at the forefront of Rolex servicing.

Barry Douthwaite, Senior Watchmaker has 39 years of dedicated service at Whittles Preston, his mechanical expertise has played a pivotal role in securing Whittles Preston the prestigious ‘Rolex Authorised Service’ plaque. He said: “This accolade guarantees our clients an elevated service experience, synonymous with the horological excellence of Rolex.

WHITTLES PRESTON OFFERS AN ARRAY OF METICULOUS SERVICING PROCEDURES THAT ADHERE TO THE EXACTING STANDARDS SET BY ROLEX “Whittles Preston offers an array of meticulous servicing procedures that adhere to the exacting standards set by Rolex. From full services that include complete overhauls of movements, cases, and bracelets, to adjustments and case refinishing. I am very proud to provide such

excellence in after-sales service and witness pieces being handed down through generations.”

JOURNEY THROUGH PRECISION: THE ART OF ROLEX WATCH SERVICING

To guarantee continued accuracy and optimal performance, it is recommended that Rolex timepieces are serviced at least every 10 years.

The meticulous servicing of a Rolex watch is a fascinating process that involves a series of specialised steps.

The watchmaker initiates the process by separating the bracelet from the case and carefully extracting the movement with its dial and hands intact. The movement, case, and bracelet then follow distinct servicing paths.

The movement is disassembled, and each component is precisely examined for adherence to Rolex standards. Any required replacements are sourced from Rolex’s manufacturer in Switzerland. After a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and drying, the movement is reassembled, along with the reattaching of the dial and hands.

Similarly, the case is disassembled and each part undergoes hand polishing or satinfinishing to restore its original lustre. Seals are replaced, and the crystal, bezel, and middle case are reassembled.

The bracelet receives equal attention, with each link polished or satin-finished before being cleaned. The movement is returned to the case with any accuracy adjustments, before undergoing a 24-hour precision test.

Waterproof testing is also performed, and after reattaching the bracelet, the watch undergoes final checks.

The finished timepiece is accompanied by a Rolex two-year international warranty covering parts and labour. This comprehensive process underscores Whittles Preston’s commitment to preserving the distinction of every Rolex timepiece.

UNRIVALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE It’s fair to say the meticulous care and attention to detail extends way beyond the

Service Workshop and is in fact central to the Whittles showroom ethos itself. Whittles’ Assistant Manager, Sarah Broadbent said:

exceptional customer service shines through in every interaction, making each encounter a truly unique and memorable experience.”

AT WHITTLES PRESTON, OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE SHINES THROUGH IN EVERY INTERACTION, MAKING EACH ENCOUNTER A TRULY UNIQUE AND MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS AT WHITTLES PRESTON

“At Whittles Preston, our dedication to our clients takes precedence. We take immense pleasure in curating bespoke experiences tailored to each individual client. Whether it’s commemorating a special birthday, marking an anniversary, or scrupulously servicing a cherished timepiece handed down through generations, our aim is to create a personalised and celebratory journey at Whittles Preston. Our commitment to

Whittles Preston, part of the esteemed Beaverbrooks Group and managed by Rose Wilson, is dedicated to providing you with an exceptional Rolex experience. n For further information about servicing your Rolex, the Rolex collection or our showroom, please visit the Whittles website.

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homesinsideout

GRADE II TREASURE SAVED IN STYLE Following loving restoration of a threatened heritage property in central St Annes, Fylde Coast residents have welcomed the opening of Cheshire-based Homebird Interiors into the former Public Offices writes Kate Bowyer

B

uilt in 1900, the old Public Offices building on Clifton Drive South had been at the community’s heart for generations. Following the relocation of the council to newer premises, however, the Grade II listed building was falling into disrepair.

As the council sought tenants to restore and safeguard the property, sister entrepreneurs Miri Templeton and Darrell Whittaker were looking to expand their Cheshire-based home furnishings business Homebird Interiors, founded in 2008.

“With its historic features and community legacy, we fell in love with the old Public Offices building straightaway,” explains Miri.

“Although it meant taking on a much bigger restoration and renovation project, we couldn’t leave it to vanish from the town.”

THEIR FIRST IN LANCASHIRE, IT’S THE LARGEST IN THE RANGE, GIVING THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE EXCLUSIVE NEW LINES After several years’ careful planning and renovation in compliance with strict English Heritage regulations, by mid-October, the store was ready for its grand unveiling.

Eager shoppers and residents keen to see the careful restoration of the building’s original features streamed excitedly through the doors, discovering introductory offers and much to tempt. First customers through the tills were thrilled to receive complimentary gift bags and the chance to win a £500 gift voucher.

The fifth shop in the chain, St Annes becomes Homebird’s flagship store. Their first in Lancashire, it’s the largest in the range, giving them the opportunity to showcase exclusive new lines, and future plans for an instore coffee shop and café.

Behind its original Victorian bow windows, shoppers are discovering Homebird’s signature relaxed, informal style, featuring natural materials and neutral colours with French, New England and Nordic influences.

From hand-carved oak tables to soft stylish sofas, locally sourced sea-glass candlesticks, personally selected homewares, gifts and accessories are beautifully displayed in intimate home-styled nooks and alcoves, giving browsers a unique insight into how well they fit with both contemporary and traditional homes.

Miri reflects: “Really embracing our belief that sustainable style should be affordable for everyone, everyone’s warm welcome and good wishes have made all the hard work worthwhile.

Working round the clock meant we could launch the shop and dress it for Christmas, which we always make extra-special. With plenty of decorations and accessories in store, there’s still time for shoppers to order larger furniture pieces like our popular corner sofas and have them delivered for Christmas – if they get in quick!” n

Homebird Interiors The Old Public Offices 292-294 Clifton Drive South Lytham St Annes FY8 1LH 07902 700 341 stannes@homebirdfurniture.co.uk homebirdfurniture.co.uk Homebird - St.Annes

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Come in and be inspired NEW STORE opening October 14th in the rejuvenated Old Public Offices Building, St Annes Special introductory offers, complimentary goodie bags and prize draws 292-4 CLIFTON DRIVE SOUTH, ST ANNES (opposite Marks & Spencer) Visit us at homebirdfurniture.co.uk or follow us on Insta @homebird_interiors Altrincham

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homesinsideout

CHANGING SEASONS Your leaf blower will be an essential piece of equipment this autumn but it’s also the time to get all your garden machinery serviced ready for spring!

That’s why Mowerpower is the place to go for any piece of gardening equipment, as well as for expert repairs and servicing to keep machines running smoothly all year round.

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t this time of year most of the hard work in the garden is done – you may want to consider when your last mow will be so lawns are all set for their autumn winter ‘hibernation’. It’s also the time to plant bulbs to get a stunning pop of colour next spring – always a lovely sign that warmer weather is on its way! At this time of year you may still have time to collect ripe seeds from your favourite flowers to plant next spring.

As the cooler months arrive, looking after your garden becomes a little less arduous but it’s always made so much easier if you have the right equipment for the job.

As the busy gardening season draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to have your mowers, blowers, strimmers and hedge cutters serviced to ensure they are all in tip-top shape, ready for the arrival of spring next year when the growing season begins and lawns need mowing, topiary needs shaping and hedges need cutting.

The Webster family at Mowerpower have been running their successful business for four generations and have built up 70 years’ experience and extensive product knowledge.

IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO HAVE MOWERS, BLOWERS, STRIMMERS AND HEDGE CUTTERS SERVICED TO ENSURE THEY ARE ALL IN TIP-TOP SHAPE The Websters employ a team of full-time mechanics, across their two state-of-the-art workshops, and will have your mowers and hand-held garden machinery back to their best within days, wherever possible.

If you need replacement gardening equipment, now is a great time to visit Mowerpower, as there will be some fantastic end of season discounts on first class machinery.

In addition to the most impressive range of mowers you’ll find anywhere in the North West, there’s a huge range of hand-held machines including strimmers, chainsaws, pressure washers and leaf blowers from all the leading brands including Stihl, Echo and Mitox. With the friendly, knowledgeable advice you’ll receive, you can be sure to get the right equipment for the job.

David Webster heads up the Mowerpower team with his parents Richard and Lynn and is keen to point out that customers looking for a mower – ride-on, push or robotic – can see and handle the equipment in the showroom to get a feel for it.

Similarly, customers looking for hand-held machines will be advised on what will suit them and their garden best. As well as having approved retailer status with all the top manufacturers, the secret to the success of this traditional family business is their customer service and product knowledge, which enables every customer to make an informed choice and buy the machine that’s right for them and the job they’re doing. n

END OF SEASON DISCOUNTS!

If you need replacement gardening equipment, now is a great time to visit Mowerpower, as there will be some fantastic end of season discounts on first class machinery!

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annister Hall Nursery & Landscaping Materials Centre is now a premier retailer of the revolutionary, virtually natural, wood decking

by Millboard, which offers the perfect solution for any commercial or residential outdoor project.

The go-to destination for specimen trees, shrubs and plants as well as all landscaping materials, for Bannister Hall becoming a Millboard retailer significantly enhances the company’s quality-led, product portfolio.

Operating for more than two decades, Bannister Hall is a family-run business, dedicated to environmentally ethical business practices and to providing a first-rate customer service.

Eco-friendly and of exceptional quality, Millboard products align perfectly with this ethos as Alan Lovell, MD at Bannister Hall Ltd, explains: “Millboard products are highly innovative and truly superior to other types of decking in terms of durability, variety and quality. The range will sit perfectly alongside our new Spanish porcelain tiles and natural stone paving ranges within our landscaping store. Millboard truly has the beauty of natural wood but without the maintenance downside.”

A LITTLE GARDEN INSPIRATION? Many people use the bottom of the garden to store tools and hide things they don’t want near the house. It is often a less visited,

neglected part of the garden. So how about giving the bottom of your garden a makeover and making it a destination space? A tranquil area tucked away is an excuse to wander down a path or tiptoe barefoot across a lawn, a chance to decompress in nature. Time outdoors is good for mental health and ideal for reinvigorating the senses when taking a break from working from home.

JOURNEY

Part of the pleasure of reaching a destination is the journey – this can be so much more than a straight path cut through a lawn.

A thoughtfully designed transitional space can really add to the effect of a journey, an archway with a climbing rose, a screen of scrambling ivy or a narrow-shaded passageway. A curved decking path can look sensational.

ARRIVAL

A raised decking area at the bottom of your garden with a different colour border really makes a feature out of it and gives the impression of it being an extra room.

homesinsideout

SHADE

If you’re going to sit outside, and particularly if you are dining, you will definitely need some shade from the sun and shade can often shield a seating area from the cold wind too.

Covered decking areas are very practical – a wraparound slatted design can be softened with climbing plants. Go dark with decking to complete the look. Millboard’s Enhanced Grain decking in Burnt Cedar has sophisticated warm brown and black tones.

MILLBOARD’S ENHANCED GRAIN DECKING IN BURNT CEDAR HAS SOPHISTICATED WARM BROWN AND BLACK TONES Pergolas are a timeless method of providing respite from the midday sun – any manner of plants can be used to climb up and across to provide shade.

Sail shades and awnings are a cheerful option – combine with Weathered Oak decking in Driftwood for a tranquil, holiday feel. Or if you prefer a painted look, without the bother of having to paint, take a look at Brushed Basalt, Millboard’s most authentic painted-wood-look decking available. Add a bistro heater in the cooler months to extend the outdoor season.

Shade doubles up as privacy as well – a row of bamboo can also work and provides pleasant sound and movement in the wind. Take care to choose wisely and take precautions against it spreading too much.

• It doesn’t warp or rot like real wood.

• It’s splinter free – the way Millboard is manufactured means absolutely no splinters.

WHY CHOOSE MILLBOARD? • It’s resistant to algae, unlike wood, there is no protein content to assist algal growth within the boards.

• Millboard has a low carbon footprint – it’s independently and UKAS accredited to the ISO 14064-1 Verified Carbon Footprint Assurance Mark.

• It’s also environmentally friendly as the base materials have low impact on global warming.

• Millboard is hygienic as it has a nonporous surface that is easy to clean for spills and deposits.

• It has UV and weathering stability and has been tested in most weathers and temperatures so remains UV stable.

• The boards are slip resistant with a high grip surface which is much safer than wood, especially in the wet.

• It’s lightweight making it easy to handle and install.

• Millboard is low maintenance and resists stains from food or drinks spills and algae growth.

• It benefits from lost-head fixing – Durafix fixings are virtually hidden beneath the unique Lastane surface.

• Millboard is moulded from real oak – not extruded like most composites.

REAL WOOD LOOK

MILLBOARD IS VIRTUALLY INDISTINGUISHABLE FROM NATURAL REAL WOOD, IT HAS ALL THE AESTHETIC BENEFITS, WITHOUT THE UPKEEP SELECTION AND VISUALISATION Choosing your Millboard decking is a significant decision and one that you will want to get right. At Bannister Hall, the team makes it easy with free samples sent to your home and a wide range of Millboard decking to view and choose in-store. n Bannister Hall can also arrange ‘approved expert’ installation of all Millboard products.

Contact the team today to discover more about Millboard decking and cladding.

Millboard is virtually indistinguishable from natural real wood, it has all the aesthetic benefits, without the upkeep and it’s handmoulded from natural timbers.

The decking uses a unique material unrivalled across the globe which consistently out-performs natural timber and composite decking.

The Weathered Oak range, for example is moulded from over a century-old oak board and the Enhanced Grain range is exquisitely rendered from refined timber and hand-coloured in true-to-life tonal shades.

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SPECIAL OFFER! 10% OFF ALL PLANTS FOR LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY READERS

Bannister Hall Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087 bannisterhall.com OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY FREE ON-SITE PARKING

GERDA APPROVED INSTALLER LEE KELLY UPVC & ALUMINIUM

ENTRANCE DOORS REIMAGINED SUPERBLY ENGINEERED STEEL & ALUMINIUM DOORS Gerda Front Doors are a recently introduced range of superbly engineered aluminium & steel front doors in the UK since 2022. They are meticulously crafted to offer a visually superior aesthetic compared to front doors that rely on the standard aluminum door concept, incorporating decorative panels in place of glass.

Gerda’s four front door models stand out with their superior design features and numerous specifications compared to mainstream aluminum front doors, surpassing competing products like the S200 Spitfire Door, Origin, and Hallmark offerings.

Aesthetically Appealing: Gerda doors have the curb appeal with their flush and seamless appearance Engineering Excellence: Faced with steel & aluminum for superior durability and resistance to rotting or warping Unmatched Security: State-of-the-art security features with burglary resistance accreditations RC3 & PAS 24 Excellent Thermal Performance: Exceptionally energy-efficient, thanks to a unique thermal division that enhances the natural insulation of aluminum and steel, achieving impressively low U-values as low as 0.8 W/m2K. Comparable to Established Brands: Gerda doors stand out when compared to other established brands, offering superior build quality and aesthetics.

MUCH MORE THAN A COMPOSITE DOOR The engineering and manufacturing process behind Gerda doors sets them apart from most doors sold as composites. What makes them truly unique in the market is that they are faced with steel or aluminum. Furthermore, their design and construction differ significantly from conventional composite doors.

The emphasis on security that is standard across all Gerda products is rarely seen in any specification for composite residential doors currently available in the UK. The GERDA Door range compliments our full collection of aluminium windows & Patio doors & will look equally stunning with UPVC windows.

At Lee Kelly UPVC & Aluminium, we take pride in being an Approved Trade Partner, offering exclusive Gerda door installations in Preston and the surrounding areas.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL GERDA INSTALLER LEE KELLY UPVC & ALUMINIUM TODAY! We now have these doors on show at our recently refurbished showroom: 364 Blackpool road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 3AA www.leekellyupvc.com | 01772 788550 | mail@leekellyupvc.com

I N S P I R AT I O N A L I D E A S TO E N H A N C E YO U R H O M E

• UPVC WINDOWS • ALUMINIUM WINDOWS • ENTRANCE DOORS • PATIO DOORS • ROOFLINE • CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES • COMMERCIAL & MUCH MUCH MORE Lee Kelly UPVC Ltd 364 Blackpool Road, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3AA Call: 01772 788550 Visit: www.leekellyUPVC.com

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to create a personal look and enjoying the process. The palette has 12 colours and for the first time, we’ve included our wallpapers in the collaboration too, which are printed with our own paint as always, but this time exclusively using the Carte Blanche colours.”

Christopher John Rogers commented: “Colours, and the feelings that I get from them,

CLASSIC & CONTEMPORARY Premium paint and wallpaper maker Farrow & Ball is this month partnering with celebrated fashion designer Christopher John Rogers to launch Carte Blanche – a capsule collection of pattern and colour

T

hrough the new Carte Blanche collection, Farrow & Ball brings designer Christopher John Rogers’ distinctive flair and unmistakable joy to the world of interiors. A foundation of four neutrals, eight statement shades and three playful wallpaper prints, this palette of handcrafted paint and paper places the emphasis on expressive, individual style.

Inspired by cherished memories of food and family, the 12 new paint shades range from vivid blue to verdant green, cheerful pink to structural neutrals. The result is a colour palette of elevated exuberance. For the first

time, the collection also includes three new wallpaper patterns centred around playing with shape, each available in three Carte Blanche colourways. Exquisitely fashioned but far from restrictive, the elements can be effortlessly combined with endless possibilities.

are always my starting point when working, so when Farrow & Ball reached out regarding the collaboration, it seemed like the most natural fit. With their emphasis on quality and longevity, and my emphasis on artful, declarative design, I think this partnership has created something incredibly exciting by mining the space between both feelings.”

CARTE BLANCHE BRINGS TOGETHER THE BEST OF HERITAGE AND MODERNITY, COMBINING CLASSIC INSPIRATION AND THE TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES Charlotte Cosby, Creative Director for Farrow & Ball, commented: “I’m obsessed with Christopher’s use of colour – he treats it so tenderly and the result can be a beautifully tempered explosion or a slick confident splash.

His lines are impeccable and you can’t help but be drawn to the exquisite quality of his pieces, a key reason why he felt like such a natural partner for us. It’s been incredible to work with Christopher because craft and attention to detail are intrinsic to both of our processes, so I always knew this collaboration was going to be something special.

“Carte Blanche is all about finding freedom

Carte Blanche brings together the best of heritage and modernity, combining classic inspiration and the traditional techniques Farrow & Ball has perfected over 75 years with an unexpected twist, for a timeless look that delights this season and many more.” n Local Farrow & Ball stockist: 01995 643455 rockform.co.uk farrow-ball.com

Importers and stockists of exceptional tiles and stone

(A6) Garstang Road Brock Nr Preston Lancashire PR3 0RD 01995 643455 www.rockform.co.uk

ST Y L I S H

Green floor lamp two levels £1075 The hand-blown glass comes in different levels of opacity, offering an array of transparencies.

James Kok Lighting 01772 977677 www.kok.lighting

AND SLEEK

Amtico Signature Aged Oak flooring from £75 per square metre Using the large parquet blocks creates a powerful and unique effect, from traditional elegance to daring geometry.

Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682 gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Ella Claire Designer Collection, sized 3.66m x 2.74m (12ft x 9ft) £1799 Designed to make a statement and elevate your living space.

Frith Rugs 01745 584404 frithrugs.co.uk

Beautiful handmade Hetton curved spindle king size bed £2520 Shown here in teal but available to order in almost any colour - we just require a paint chart reference.

Royal Oak Furniture Grassington 01756 753378 royaloakfurniture.co.uk

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DISCOVER FESTIVE GEMS GALORE… There’s nowhere more magical for Christmas sparkle, shopping and fun than Barton Grange Garden Centre, celebrating 60 dazzling years of creativity and entertainment this very special season.

Kate Bowyer discovers an unforgettable festive diamond jubilee of extra-special displays, experiences and treats, including late-night opening and unique children’s events. Photography: Kirsten Platt

F

amous for its sumptuous themes, discover stylish tree decorations, lights, furnishings, seasonal floristry, Christmas figures, ribbons, décor, delectable treats and gifts in eight enticing and inspiring panoramas.

Step into a fairy forest of lush nature tones and sparkling magic, let it snow in a cool, winter wonderland of crisp icicle whites and dazzling snowflake blues, or glow with grown-up glamour in luxurious tones of gold, champagne, silver and bronze.

Fancy something a bit different? Try the fluffy candyfloss pinks and glossy pistachio greens, reach for the stars amidst Strictlyinspired show-stopping glitter and tinsel, and conjure up all the fun of the fair in Christmas Carousel and Santa Sleigh Ride with lights, music and bow-bedecked presents.

Easing every step of your Christmas

journey, direct from Santa’s workshop, comes the best in Christmas dining and decoration, from beautifully crafted Lemax villages to state-of-the-art app controlled fibre optic lights.

LET BARTON GRANGE’S ELVES PACK A LUXURY CHRISTMAS HAMPER WITH A SELECTION OF DELICIOUS CAKES, HAND-MADE CHOCOLATES, WINES, FINE COFFEES AND TEAS, PRESERVES AND CHUTNEYS Let Barton Grange’s elves pack a luxury Christmas hamper with a selection of delicious cakes, hand-made chocolates, wines, fine coffees and teas, preserves and chutneys; the perfect, personal gift.

Families can join Santa’s helpers for a

39

very merry family breakfast, lunch, tea or fish supper at The Ocean Restaurant from 14th November to Christmas Eve. Events here include entertainment, a chance to meet Santa and receive a special gift, and mouthwatering food and drink from Barton Grange’s award-winning kitchens.

Step into a children’s dream of Christmas in The Flower Bowl, with two exclusive interactive adventures. From 14th November until Christmas Eve, hop aboard the Magical VR Sleigh Ride for an exhilarating Lapland flight, and from 25th November, explore Santa’s Christmas Journey, a unique interactive adventure of fun festive challenges from The Elf Who Stole Christmas!

With late-night opening until 8pm from 14th November until 16th December, there’s no need to miss anything out! Relax strolling through the fairytale inspired ‘Walk of Lights’, find locally-sourced treats in The Farm Shop, and discover delicious festive fare in The Riverside Café and Willows Restaurant. Just one thing left, and luckily, you’re in the right place – with a huge range from sustainablygrown to sparkling colour changing designs: your perfect Christmas tree! n

Barton Grange Garden Centre Garstang Road, Brock PR3 0RB bartongrange.co.uk

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...for 20 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom.

84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NBPR4 NextPR4 to Booths 84 Preston Liverpool Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston Preston 5NB PR4 • Supermarket Next 5NB to•Supermarket Booths Next toSupermarket Booths Supermarket verpool Road,84Longton, 5NBLongton, • Road, Next to• Booths Liverpool Road,84PR4 Longton, Preston 5NB • Supermarket Next to Booths AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE EVENING EVENING AND WEEKEND AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE EVENINGEVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

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DESIGN • S UPPLY • INSTAL L Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm by appointment only.

Evening appointments are also available upon request.

Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket

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COLOURS OF AUTUMN Autumn is now definitely here and there is a chill in the air. But it’s a beautiful time of year with the trees changing colour and the first fall of leaves

A

utumn is a time to start preparing for spring next year – whether that’s planting new trees and shrubs before the ground gets too hard or choosing your bulb selection for a colourful start to the new gardening season.

In autumn you can find bags of mixed daffodil bulbs in supermarkets and DIY stores that come in all shapes and sizes, although most will be the large, bright yellow trumpet type. Price is always a good indicator of how easy a bulb it to grow – the cheaper it is, the easier it is to grow.

So, thrifty tip for the month is to buy yourself some big bags of daffs when doing your weekly supermarket shop. Daffodil bulbs will grow pretty much anywhere, even in lawns where you can plant them in great drifts and mow them away by the time you want to sit out in the sun. To create a natural looking drift of daffodils, put the bulbs in a bowl and then throw them out. Wherever they land plant them. If you are planting in lawns, cut out three sides of a square and lift the turf back, put in a few bulbs then firm the turf back again. The best way to work out how deep to plant a bulb is to dig down about two to three times the depth of the bulb. Because

bulbs have developed over centuries, they can grow just about anywhere in the garden.

Other plants offering brilliant garden colour in autumn, are Japanese maples. These compact trees and shrubs are ideal for even the smallest of gardens as they never grow too tall. Japanese maples are best in sun or partial shade, sheltered from strong winds and all are hardy. They should be planted outside during November to February and like moist, free-draining, soil. Bushy varieties thrive in pots so long as they don’t dry out.

spring foliage, turning green then crimson and Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ which is an upright tree with coral-red bark and foliage that matures to canary yellow.

If you grow your own veg, then you can plant onions and garlic bulbs this month.

If you want a crop of garlic for early summer plant individual cloves in late October.

You can always start them off in modular seed trays or pots. Plant them out in early spring once the soil becomes a little drier.

Growing garlic from supermarket bulbs can be disappointing, so for best results go for named varieties from garden centres or mail order suppliers. n

RHS GARDENER’S OCTOBER CHECKLIST

THE BEST WAY TO WORK OUT HOW DEEP TO PLANT A BULB IS TO DIG DOWN ABOUT TWO TO THREE TIMES THE DEPTH OF THE BULB There are hundreds of Japanese maples to choose from but favourites include Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ – a large shrub or small tree with deeply lobed green leaves that turn crimson, purple, orange and gold, Acer palmatum ‘Inaba-shidare’ – a moundforming maple with finely dissected purple

• Propagate roses by taking hardwood cuttings from now until February • Prevent rose blackspot by clearing fallen rose leaves but don’t put in compost!

• Do some pre-winter pruning to stop wind damage to shrubs and roses • Bring in frost sensitive plants such as dahlias before the temperatures dip • Divide summer flowering perennials • Prune blackberries • Sow broad beans • Put up nest boxes for birds ready for the spring • Clean out the pond removing excess leaves and vegetation • Plant native trees and shrubs to encourage wildlife

Creative lighting for your home & business Showroom by appointment only Showroom address: 13 Cable Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9YW www.kok.lighting james@kok.lighting 01772 977 677 07540 372 615

LUXURY WINDOW TREATMENTS Made to Measure Window Blinds, Shutters and Curtains.

We offer the largest range of fabrics, colours and styles.

SHUTTERS | BLINDS | CONCEALED BLINDS CURTAINS | MOTORISED | OUTSIDE SHADING

James Albert, 278 Fylde Road, Lancashire, Preston, PR2 2NJ W: jamesalbert.co.uk E: hello@jamesalbert.co.uk T: 01772 823311

D E S I G N E D TO PERFECTION From planning to completion be assured you’re in safe hands.

The Fylde Fireplace Gallery The Fylde Fireplace | Gallery 35 | Woodlands Road | Lytham | FY8 4EP Phone: 01253 733200 | Email: SalesFFPG@outlook.com | Web: fyldefireplacegallery.co.uk

homesinsideout

A DAZZLING TRANSFORMATION When it comes to interior design, flooring can make a big statement in any scheme. Meena McDonald discovers the details of one of Gainsborough Flooring’s stunning makeovers.

Photography: Robin Lyndon

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winning combination of dazzling design styles, indulgent luxury and hard-wearing practicality was what our client was looking for.

She was whole heartedly impressed with what Gainsborough Flooring delivered for her.

With extensive areas of her recently refurbished property requiring flooring, she was seeking something that would complement her interior design and colour schemes, whilst providing her with the practical necessities of a busy household.

The naturally bright lounge with its sophisticated fireplace required a large amount of extra screed preparation by the Gainsborough team to eliminate a huge dip in the floor. This was carried out efficiently, tidily and with perfect precision to an excellent standard, with least disruption to the client.

Once the preparation was complete the lounge was fitted with Amtico Signature Aged Oak using the large parquet blocks creating

a powerful and unique effect. This premium collection from Amtico has an inspirational range of designs, from traditional elegance to daring geometry. The designs can be personalised to your own distinctive combination or you can choose from over 100 pre-defined floors.

The lounge was finished off with a deep, dense pile velvet, hand-woven, natural Jacaranda Simla Fern rug, which beautifully reflects the light in the room and brings a gorgeous touch of luxury and extravagance to the exquisite space.

The sophisticated study was fitted with the

45

elegant and robust Amtico Signature Aged Oak in a French Weave. With its foundation of parquetry, the crafted woven pattern has the strength and balance for large spaces.

Moving through the spectacular property, the master and spare bedrooms were installed with the luxurious Jacaranda Jaspur Cowrie.

Using sustainable fibres, the predominantly handwoven renewable wool creates beautifully textured carpets in a variety of different finishes from smooth, luxurious velvets to chunky, characterful bouclés. With all the exceptional benefits of a wool carpet, including natural softness and springiness, insulation and softened acoustics, it is also stain resistant and easy to clean.

The children’s bedrooms were fitted with Alternative Flooring’s Barefoot Wool Hatha Japa, a chunky, thick loop pile carpet made from 100 per cent un-dyed wool. The beauty of the Barefoot carpet is that it is completely hand crafted, eco-friendly and super soft.

For the elegant stairs and landing, Alternative Flooring’s Wool Hygge Sisu Warm Milk with herringbone grey binding was selected by the client. It’s as snuggly as the name suggests and is made from 100 per cent un-dyed Nordic wool bringing conviviality into any home.

The Gainsborough team spent a considerable amount of time curving the binding and carpet around the bottom step of the staircase to match the pattern seamlessly, resulting in a perfect finish.

The client was genuinely overwhelmed with the sheer choice of flooring, the depth of product knowledge and meticulous attention to detail the Gainsborough team showed throughout the whole process. With such a friendly, accommodating and dedicated team you can truly expect an amazing experience with Gainsborough Flooring.

Why not contact them and see how they can transform your home? n

01772 250 682 gainsboroughflooring.co.uk Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street Preston PR1 2XB

Opening times: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat 9.00am - 4.00pm

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homesinsideout

Coastal-inspired interior brand XV Stripes has launched a new collection of placemats and coasters to bring a touch of the sea to the dinner table

T

he Cardinal placemat and coaster from XV Stripes sets hand-drawn images of cardinal buoys in a striking yellow, grey and white colour scheme.

There are four designs in each set, honouring all four points of the compass and the brand’s home on the Isle of Wight.

Izzey Hung, founder of XV Stripes, said: “Our placemat and coaster collections are exquisitely simple. They pay homage to our glorious surroundings on the Isle of Wight and will add a coastal feel to dinner time.”

Aesthetics aside, these coasters and placemats have also been designed to stand up to even the most demanding of mealtimes.

They are heat resistant and manufactured in the UK, from full colour satin finish printed melamine with a hardboard base.

AHOY THERE!

THE HAND-DRAWN IMAGES OF CARDINAL BUOYS ARE SET IN A STRIKING YELLOW, GREY AND WHITE COLOUR SCHEME The reverse side is covered with an attractive and durable cork backing. They are heat resistant to 145 degrees C as well as being scratch and stain resistant.

Inspired by life on and off the water, XV Stripes is putting the experience back into shopping.

Whether buying online through their aspirational website or getting tailored advice from founder Izzey, XV Stripes is making shopping an event, from browsing through to unboxing.

The interiors brand, which is renowned for its dazzling blue and crisp white signature collection, offers laid back, sustainable luxe for the home.

What’s more, every piece in their exclusive collection is checked and certified meaning every product is non-harmful to the environment. n The Cardinal placemats are available priced at £26 for a set of four, while the coasters are £12 for a set of four

xvstripes.com

20%OFF

Embrace the changing seasons and transform your living space for autumn and winter with our exclusive October offer!

Marvelous Woven Rug • Design ZCA016

Afghan Design Rug • Design IRE001

£499 NOW ONLY £399 • 100% viscose made in Belgium, Size shown 9’10 x 6’7 (3.00m x 2.00m). Other sizes also available.

£799 NOW ONLY £639.20 • 100% Wool, handknotted in India.

Size shown 8’ x 5’ (2.44m x 1.52m). Other sizes also available.

Enjoy a generous 20% discount on selected rugs all month long. Whether you’re seeking to add warmth, style, or a touch of luxury to your home, now is the perfect time to discover the rug of your dreams.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time opportunity to refresh your room and elevate your decor. Make October your month of home reinvention, and let our rugs be the centerpiece of your cozy and inviting sanctuary.

Turkish Milas Design Rug • Design IML001

Greek Key Design • Design ECD003

£799.50 NOW ONLY £639.60 • 100% Wool, handknotted in India.

Size shown 8’ x 5’ (2.44m x 1.52m). Other sizes also available.

£499 NOW ONLY £399.20 • 100% Wool, handmade in India.

Size shown 8’ x 5’ (2.44m x 1.52m). Other sizes & runners available.

FrithRugs, Lythgoes Lane (A49), Warrington WA2 7XE Stores also at: Bodelwyddan, North Wales LL18 5TY Vanguard Way, Shrewsbury SY1 3TG

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FrithRugs is a trademark of GH Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd. 23f01

26/09/2023 11:13

Celebrate

OFFERS with us there’s great IN-STORE offers in store!

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European furniture.

Showcasing pieces from Showcasing pieces from French Gauier, Connibia-Calligaris, Himolla, French Gauier, Connibia-Calligaris, Rossetto and more, shipped from Akante, Italia Living and Nicoletti some of the finest manufactures and more, shipped from on the Themanufactures clean lines and some ofcontinent. the finest edges make upclean a collection onsmooth the continent.

The lines of pure design classics which and smooth edges make upare a all hand picked by owner and collection of pure design interior stylist,are Paula classics which all Baxter. hand picked by owner and PAD offer a free design service interior stylist, Paula Baxter. from rooms to a full house beddesign design, PAD including offer a free lighting and fitted wardrobes. service from rooms to alsoincluding offer in the a fullThey house bedshowroom design, lighting and a collection of wardrobes. allfitted weather innovative garden furniture for outdoor living.

‘At pad we don’t sell we provide a stress free and friendly environment to buy’

| DGI N I|N GD IN | G | H L I VLIINVI G N|GS L|E ESPLE ING R D E| NL IG L ITGIN H TG ING EPIN INAG

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Poulton Business Park, 4 Millennium Court, Furness Drive, Poulton-Le-Flyde, FY6 8JS 01253 893334 PADCL.CO.UK

Open 7 days a week...

Be assured of a warm welcome.

Our tea rooms are open from 9am to 4:30pm.

The antiques centre is open 10am to 5.30pm.

We are the ideal location to source unusual and personal gifts.

OVER 40 ANTIQUE DEALERS ON TWO FLOORS COUNTRY & FINE FURNITURE, JEWELLERY, CLOCKS & WATCHES, BOOKS, PAINTINGS, MILITARIA, CERAMICS AND CONTEMPORARY WORKS OF MERIT.

Our staff are helpful and knowledgeable whether you are buying or selling.

welcome

to our tea rooms

A stylish yet relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy an excellent range of homemade food throughout the day.

01706 830803 www.holdenwood.co.uk

Holden Wood Antiques & Tea Rooms, Grane road, Haslingden Lancashire, BB4 4AT

‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘not in my gaze (but in my head)’ – 20x20cm Box Canvas

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else – object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.

To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com

His latest collection are collages from recycled billboards and dry transfer lettering with original wording. He said about the artworks: “The large scale halftone printing, the torn forms, vivid colours and ripped edges are ideal to create purely abstract expressions, as opposed to the original advertising images.”

To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk @ endartistuk

ALL SET FOR THE NEW SEASON Luisa Cerano wool blend coat £799 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk

LANX 365 Vibram Ribchester Chelsea boot £225 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

Joseph Ribkoff reversible faux fur coat £330 Novello 101 Fishergate Preston PR1 2AE 01772 555454 novellos.co.uk

Taifun animal print coat £220, top £80, jeans £99 Cosgroves Rimington Clitheroe BB7 4DS 01200 445711 cosgrovesfashion.com

Gant Active Cloud jacket, available in Woody Brown & Evening £265 Cosgroves 64-70 King Street Whalley BB7 9SN 01254 823585 cosgrovesfashion.com

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transcended generations and trends, becoming a symbol of elegance and sophistication.

This unassuming garment has a rich history dating back nearly a century, and its story is a testament to its enduring allure. Before the twentieth century, black was most commonly worn for mourning but a convenient turning point came in the 1920s with the introduction of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel’s little black dress.

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS IS AN ICONIC PIECE THAT TRANSCENDS TRENDS, DEFIES TIME, AND EPITOMISES SOPHISTICATION Chanel recognised the need for a versatile, elegant, and affordable dress that could be worn by women from all walks of life. Chanel’s design featured clean lines, minimalistic silhouettes, and a focus on comfort, a stark departure from the restrictive corsets and ornate gowns of the previous century. Chanel believed that black was not just a colour but a statement of style and independence for women.

In the 1950s and 60s, the Parisian couturier Cristóbal Balenciaga, whose favourite colour was black, also made significant contributions to the LBD’s evolution. Balenciaga was a visionary, known for his innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship.

Balenciaga’s LBDs were characterised by their architectural precision and attention to detail.

He often incorporated dramatic silhouettes

TIMELESS ELEGANCE

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ecently, I attended the International Committee of Museums (ICOM) Costume conference in Edinburgh, Scotland. The theme of the conference was ‘All the Colours of Black’ and took place at National Museums Scotland where their current exhibition ‘Beyond the Little Black Dress’ is open until 29th October 2023.

This issue, fashion historian Scott William Schiavone, takes a look at the staple of every woman’s wardrobe – the little black dress…

This got me thinking about this simple garment and how it has now become a ubiquitous item, found in the wardrobes of many women.

In this article, we will explore the history of the little black dress, more commonly known in popular culture as the LBD and how this humble garment became an iconic fashion staple.

The LBD is an iconic piece that transcends trends, defies time, and epitomises sophistication. This timeless piece has

and sculptural elements, challenging conventional notions of what a black dress could be. Balenciaga’s designs showcased the potential of the LBD to be both a statement piece and a symbol of understated elegance.

The Harris in Preston is extremely lucky to have a LBD designed by Balenciaga’s sister label EISA from the 1950s. The simple shape of the dress is enhanced with a skirt that is pleated and moves with the wearer, exemplifying Balenciaga’s signature for simple lines and elegant dressing.

Furthermore, the LBD was engrained into popular culture in 1961 when the actress Audrey Hepburn wore a LBD, designed by Hubert de Givenchy, in the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Her portrayal of the charming and enigmatic Holly Golightly gave the LBD iconic status.

fashion

The dress was sleeveless and featured a slim silhouette, creating a look that was both elegant and effortlessly chic. By the end of the 1960s, the LBD turned it into a must-have item in every woman’s wardrobe.

women feel confident and glamorous. It is a canvas upon which individual style can shine, allowing women to accessorise and personalise their look.

In the 21st century, the LBD remains as relevant as ever. It has become a symbol of empowerment and versatility, adapting to fit various occasions, from business meetings to cocktail parties and weddings.

THE HARRIS IN PRESTON IS EXTREMELY LUCKY TO HAVE A LBD DESIGNED

BY BALENCIAGA’S SISTER LABEL EISA FROM THE 1950S

The enduring appeal of the LBD can be attributed to its universal ability to make

Image Credits Left page: Black dress by Balenciaga for EISA Couture. From the collection at The Harris, Preston.

Image author’s own.

Top left: Black Evening Gown designed by Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. Vogue (Paris), June 1929.

Photo Hoyningen-Huene.

Top right: Theatrical poster for the American release of the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Copyright © 1961 by Paramount Pictures Corporation.

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In conclusion, the little black dress has a storied history that has cemented its place in fashion history. From its groundbreaking introduction by Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel to its iconic moments on the silver screen, the LBD has evolved and adapted while maintaining its core essence of timelessness and sophistication.

As fashion continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the little black dress will always have a special place in our hearts and wardrobes. n

Scott William Schiavone is a fashion historian and Curator of Decorative Art at The Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston. Scott has worked with fashion and textile collections in museums across the UK. Scott has his own YouTube channel, Fashion &… which has more than 5,200 subscribers and is an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society. @scottschiavonefashioncurator

DUBARRY MEN’S FEENEY DUSKY GREEN £199 vareys.co.uk

DUBARRY BELLEEK CHALK £129 Varey’s Town & Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DA 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy,all prices and stockists are subject to change.

MARC CAIN BLACK WOOL FELT HAT £89 shawsfashion.co.uk

REPEAT CASHMERE GREY JUMPER £249 michelle.b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01200 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

IT’S A WRAP Wrap up warm this autumn with cosy cashmere knits, super scarves and woolly hats MARC CAIN CHECKED WOOL SCARF £135 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk

LANX MADE IN ENGLAND SOCKS £15 Various colours available.

LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com BARBOUR CASE FAIRISLE BEANIE £29.95 barbour.com

GANT QUARTER ZIP SWEATER £125 Available in light blue melange or marine melange.

Cosgroves 64-70 King Steet Whalley BB7 9SN 01254 823585 cosgrovesfashion.com

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health&beauty

PRIVATE HEALTHCARE – THE CHOICE IS YOURS Good health is vital to living an enjoyable life. Although we can keep active and eat well, there are occasions where we need treatment from healthcare professionals

S

ince 1948, the National Health Service has been performing a sterling job of providing the nation with care, free at the point of treatment. Every citizen can depend on the NHS to provide its services and it always there when needed with emergency and life-threatening treatment classed as a priority. But depending on your health requirements, the NHS may not always be able to provide specific new drugs, specialist surgeries or short waiting times.

There is, however, an alternative.

The private health industry has been growing in recent years with an increase in private treatments paid for by both self-funded means and from private health insurance. As some NHS GP surgeries have become increasingly under pressure, many patients are finding that they are having to wait longer than they expect to see a doctor for non-emergency conditions. It is also becoming increasingly difficult to find an NHS dentist – which have set treatment

‘band’ pricing unless you are eligible for free treatment – without being placed on a waiting list. Some treatments are not even available through an NHS dental practice and complex treatment plans can take longer to complete.

USING PRIVATE HEALTH SERVICES PROVIDES MORE FREEDOM OF CHOICE AND REDUCED WAITING TIMES Using private health services provides more freedom of choice and reduced waiting times. A private GP appointment, for example, can be up to a 30 minute slot in many cases and the surgery can offer a full range of extra services plus a guarantee to be seen by a doctor quickly.

Private hospital care provides reduced waiting times for treatment, faster access to consultant-led treatment, the ability to

choose a consultant and often a choice of hospital with a well-equipped private room should a stay be required. Many private hospitals are more like hotels with food menus and ensuite rooms. Private hospitals, like NHS hospitals, are inspected and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) so the rating can be found for each setting.

Private dental services can include state-of-the-art equipment and treatments including cosmetic dentistry and orthodontic treatments. Patients will be able to choose their dentist who they can visit for each appointment where they usually have more time to spend discussing treatment. A bonus is that, unlike NHS dental services, there are no funding restrictions.

Private healthcare need not break the bank. Many private services offer a range of memberships which include a number of extra benefits. Some services also offer 0% finance options. Private health insurance premiums vary on level of cover, age and other considerations.

So if you have a health issue that needs attention, you may want to consider all the options available to you and you may find that choosing private treatment provides all your requirements. n

health&beauty

Result after a few weeks, peak results after 3 months

Result after a few weeks, peak results after 3 months

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Result after a few weeks, peak results after 3 months

NEW REVOLUTIONARY FACELIFT MACHINE EMA Aesthetics is driving the market forward with a new revolutionary machine that is changing the way our faces age with a new, non-surgical facelift

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MA Aesthetics’ new revolutionary magnetic facelift machine uses two modalities, one is electromagnet field technology that will stimulate the facial muscles and the other is radio frequency which uses thermal technology to increase collagen and elastin. This is the only non-invasive device that smooths out irregularities and wrinkles and elevates the structure of the face to provide a facelift affect.

Result after a few weeks, peak results after 3 months

This new magnetic technology wipes away the need or want for the common invasive quick fixes.

It is the top treatment in the industry to lift the sag and droopiness caused by ageing and lifestyle.

How it works: The state-of-the-art facial technology uses magnetic face synchronised thermal energy (heat energy) to reshape and smooth the skin by heating the dermis and increasing the level of collagen and elastin fibres.

WHAT CLIENTS SAY…

“Absolutely delighted with my results so far. Emma listened to my concerns and considered my need for no downtime and recommended the new non-surgical face lift. I’ve had a course of four treatments and I’m already happy and there is still two months of results to come.

Thank-you Emma.”

• • •

Fewer wrinkles on your face Non-invasive natural lifting Firming of the face

The results: • Lifts the face • Tightens the face • Sculpts the face • Results last up to three years Alongside the revolutionary magnetic facelift, are Plasma Pen and Hyapen, enabling Emma to provide everything you need to retain your youthful looks.

EMA’s Ultra Platinum Plasma Pen is the most popular treatment due to its long lasting transformative

For those looking for a non-invasive volumiser for lips, smokers’ lines, marionette lines, smile lines, frown lines and more, the Hyapen is unquestionably ideal for a natural looking alternative to invasive injectable fillers.

With Emma you are truly in the safest hands of an expert who guarantees phenomenal results. n All AFTER images show results after a few weeks, peak results will be seen after 3 months

Plasma Pen £185 off each area. Areas start from £250.

Hyapen 20% off each ml.

The high-intensity pulse magnetic (high pulse) technology restores and enhances the support of facial tissues by selectively contracting muscles and increasing the density and quality of muscle structures.

The overwhelming benefits: • Regaining your youthful looks

results of up to three years. It’s perfect for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines, crow’s feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids, chest lines and more.

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Results after just one treatment

SPECIAL OFFER LIMITED TIME ONLY! Non surgical magnetic facelift INTRODUCTORY PRICE: 25% off a course of four treatments!

EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2NJ 01772 821600 07547 802062 info@emaskinaesthetics.co.uk

Photography: Robin Lyndon

I FEEL THAT I SHOULD LET YOU KNOW THAT I HAVE ENJOYED DINING OUT WHILE IN TENERIFE AND BEING ABLE TO ENJOY EATING THE FOOD I HAVE CHOSEN. MANY THANKS TO YOU, MARK AND KHURRUM FOR ‘RE-BUILDING’ ME! age and I had a lot dental work done on my lower teeth which was failing.

“I had swapped dentists a number of times and then the dentist I moved to retired,” recalls Jack, whose wife Shirley knew

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION

A

In what was a complex challenge, the professionals at Renovo Dental formulated a dental implant plan that has been a huge success for patient Jack Morris

s an extremely active 83-yearold, Jack Morris has undergone life-changing, dental implant treatment that has given him the smile he has always wanted.

Jack has also seen the benefits to his health and confidence too – and it’s all thanks to the professionals at Renovo Dental.

Seeking specialist dental treatment, patients throughout the UK travel to the new, Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental, where there is a top team of dental specialists, in-house dental technicians and general practitioners working with some of the very latest stateof-the-art technology.

After wearing loose dentures for several years and being advised on numerous occasions there was insufficient bone for dental implants, Jack felt he had come to the end of the road in his attempts to resolve the problem.

But when he asked for a consultation with the team at Renovo Dental, he began to see light at the end of the tunnel, as he explains: “I had lost my upper teeth at quite an early

Dr Usman Riaz of Renovo Dental, having undergone implants with him almost a decade ago.

“She was highly pleased with her implants,” says Jack. “I had always been told that I had insufficient bone to have implants and that it would be too complex – I wasn’t making any progress in improving the situation so I asked Shirley if Usman would see me for an assessment.”

Usman, a highly experienced clinician with

Working alongside Usman on Jack’s dentistry was highly experienced specialist periodontist and implant surgeon Dr Khurrum Hussain, who completed specialist training in periodontology at the prestigious Eastman Dental Institute, London.

As a periodontal specialist, he deals with gum disease and the soft tissue surrounding the palate, degenerating bone issues and failing implants.

Following treatment to improve bone density and the health of Jack’s gums, a period of healing followed before the final implant-supported teeth were fitted – and the results have been transformative for Jack:

“The team at Renovo have been superb!

I can’t recommend them highly enough.

They treat you as a client with total respect – you’re not just a number.

“All the staff are so reassuring. It’s made a terrific difference to my life,” says Jack, who spends time with Shirley in Tenerife each year. “I can now eat okay – and I like my food!” says the former award-winning Bolton butcher.

Speaking about Jack’s treatment, Usman adds: “Jack is a really sociable guy, prominent in the community and resolving his dental problems was a big thing for him. It wasn’t just about aesthetics it was a functional issue that was affecting his quality of life.”

As a brand-new clinic, Renovo has invested in the latest digital dental technology, including a state-of-the-art CT scanner which allows the team to plan and perform very precise implant surgery. This CT-guided surgery for implants is faster, easier and more efficient for surgeons and safer, more comfortable and results in faster healing for patients.

Photography: Robin Lyndon

a special interest in aesthetic and implant dentistry, readily agreed to see Jack, who went along to the beautifully restored Renovo surgery in the village of Chatburn: “Usman carried out the assessment – and while he said implants would be quite complex, he said it was possible.”

Usman explains: “Jack had been told that implants just weren’t possible, but he persevered. He was struggling with loose fitting, partial dentures and was finding it difficult to eat.

“During the initial assessment a CT scan was done and yes, it revealed Jack didn’t have sufficient bone. So, we agreed that bone grafting was the solution.”

Bone grafting was performed to replace destroyed bone surrounding the teeth roots.

The bone graft then helped to serve as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.

Testament to their skills, the team at Renovo, carried out the bone graft procedure in the same visit as the implant placements.

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Photography: Robin Lyndon

health&beauty

Preparation is key to the success and the team of dental nurses, dental technicians and implant surgeons, all play their part on the day.

WE FIRST MET JACK EARLIER THIS YEAR AND INFORMED HIM NOT ONLY HOW WE COULD HELP, BUT HOW WE COULD GIVE JACK THE SMILE HE ALWAYS WANTED… “No two smiles are the same, so there is no ‘one-size-fits all’ when it comes to this level of implant dentistry,” says Usman.

“Like all our other patients, the implants have completely changed Jack’s smile,” adds Usman. “Implants can transform people – they gain confidence and restore self-esteem.

It may sound clichéd, but this treatment really does change their lives.” n Renovo Dental treats patients throughout the region, who have been referred by their general dentist as well as self-referrals

Renovo Dental Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MAGIC CREAM £79 Award-winning, refillable, instant turnaround moisturiser for hydrated, glowing and plumper looking skin. charlottetilbury.com

MEDIK8 CRYSTAL RETINAL NIGHT SERUM VITAMIN A FROM £49 A powerful night serum proven to work 11 times faster than retinol products.

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SMOOTH & SOOTHE At this time of year your skin needs gentle care and lots of moisture. These vitamin-rich balms will help nourish and soothe, leaving skin soft and glowing

DRUNK ELEPHANT PROTINI™ POLYPEPTIDE CREAM £61 Packed with proteins and nutrients, this moisturiser replenishes and improves the appearance of the skin’s tone, texture and firmness. drunkelephant.co.uk

AUGUSTINUS BADER THE CLEANSING BALM £60 Dissolves ands removes the daily build up of dirt, oil, environmental impurities and stubborn make up, leaving nourished, hydrated, soothed and smooth skin. augustinusbader.com

EMEPELLE SERUM AND NIGHT CREAM FOR MENOPAUSAL SKIN £279* Using just these two products will rejuvenate, rebalance and restore skin affected by menopause – with no need to layer multiple skincare products. *Includes a 10% saving discoverlaser.co.uk/skincare-products

OSKIA MICRO EXFOLIATING BALM £56 This multi-award winning exfoliating balm has been formulated to buff away tired skin cells and impurities whilst nourishing the lipid barrier to leave your skin soft, radiant and glowing. oskiaskincare.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy,all prices and stockists are subject to change.

SUSANNE KAUFMANN NOURISHING EYE CREAM £55 A gentle eye cream developed to smooth away the first signs of ageing, while protecting and nourishing dry and sensitive skin to leave the eye area looking brighter and firmer. susannekaufmann.com

SKIN ROCKS THE MOISTURISER £58 A daily moisturiser to give you instant hydration and help promote long-term skin health and radiance. skinrocks.com

FARMACY HONEY POTION PLUS MASK £36 A luxurious skincare treatment designed to give an at-home, spa-like experience to help nourish and replenish the complexion. spacenk.com

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SKIN CANCER

SOLUTION

Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers, we discover what makes it the gold-standard and meet a local doctor leading the field

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ighly-regarded Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Arif Aslam, has made the prevention and treatment of skin cancer his life’s work. His dedication and passion have resulted in him working internationally due to the high demand for his specialist surgical skills. In 2021, he brought his unique skill-set home to the people of Lancashire.

Arif is a double fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. One of only 14 UKbased members of the prestigious American College of Mohs Surgery.

Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating common types of skin cancer. Done in stages, including immediate microscopic review while the patient waits, all cancerous cells are removed and healthy tissue is left untouched. All while leaving the smallest possible scar.

Mohs surgery has the lowest cancer recurrence rates and highest cure rates up to 99% for primary lesions and 98% for reoccurring lesions unsuccessfully treated by other methods. It also has the best cosmetic results of any skin cancer treatment.

“It was amazing doing high volume Mohs surgery in New Zealand and Australia where they have the highest incidence of skin cancer, but I always wanted to return to my home town of Burnley and set up my own surgical practice for the people of Lancashire,” says Arif.

“My friend and colleague Dr Miguel Montero, a highly-regarded skin specialist, heard I was back and asked me to consider joining his team. I jumped at the opportunity.

What better place than Miguel’s beautiful Medical Skin Clinic, located privately within Crow Wood Leisure, to fulfil my ambition of having a local clinic offering Mohs and advanced dermatology services.”

Dr Montero commented: “I’ve diagnosed and treated non-cancerous lesions for many years in my clinic and in the NHS. “Patients with more serious abnormalities previously required a referral to a specialist dermatologist, which can be a lengthy and

MOHS SURGERY IS CONSIDERED THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON TYPES OF SKIN CANCER worrying process. So, when I heard Arif was returning to the UK and looking to set up his own practice, I was straight on the phone,” says Miguel.

“Lesion removal is difficult to obtain via the NHS, especially in Lancashire and Cumbria. Even if you get to see your GP, there are few with a dermatology speciality.

Sadly, some serious cases get missed or caught too late.

MOHS SURGERY HAS THE LOWEST CANCER RECURRENCE RATES AND HIGHEST CURE RATES UP TO 99% “With Arif on board, we can help more people, giving them safe, fast and effective private dermatology treatment that eliminates unnecessary wait times and worry.”

“Miguel and his wife Gill, who is Clinic Director, have thoroughly spoiled me,” Arif says with his trademark warm and friendly smile. “I have an excellent purpose-designed

THE MOHS CLINIC AT DISCOVER LASER, CROW WOOD, ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT

Mohs suite and lab within their clinic, where I work with their team to carry out my Mohs surgery.

“Because it involves a special multistep process, Mohs surgery is slightly more expensive but more cost-effective than other skin cancer treatments. Health insurance plans also cover it. For patients seeking a traditional approach, I also remove noncancerous and cancerous skin lesions using long-established surgical methods.”

When Skin Cancer Awareness month is over at the end of May, skin cancer prevention and treatment will still be very much at the top of Dr Aslam’s agenda.

He encourages everyone to keep on top of their skin health because early detection leads to a better diagnosis. ■ For more information call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

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Photography: Roger Moore

When Johns Hopkins Medicine expert Frank Lin and his colleagues tracked 639 adults for around 12 years, they found that mild hearing loss doubled dementia risk.

Moderate loss tripled the risk, and people with severe hearing impairment were five times more likely to develop dementia.

Not being able to hear well could lead to having fewer conversations and withdrawing from social activities, which in turn, may contribute to and speed up the onset of dementia.

WITH THE LATEST HEARING AIDS, YOU CAN STAY CONNECTED AND ENGAGED WITH THE WORLD AROUND YOU.

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POOR HEARING INCREASES DEMENTIA RISK!

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MAINTAINING GOOD HEARING HEALTH LESSENS THE RISK OF DEMENTIA

Proactively maintaining good hearing health, on the other hand, lessens the risk of dementia for people who are hearing impaired.

Earlier this year, in a study in The Lancet medical journal, health data from hundreds of thousands of people with different degrees of hearing loss showed that those who did not use hearing aids had a 42 per cent higher risk of developing dementia within 12 years than those who used a hearing device.

Lead author Professor Dongshan Zhu explained: “Our study provides the best evidence to date to suggest that hearing aids could be a minimally invasive, cost-effective treatment to mitigate the potential impact of hearing loss on dementia.”

Preston Hearing Care Centre’s leading audiologist Simon Bland adds: “Our friendly team is here to support your wellbeing.

Whatever your age or hearing concerns, our expert audiologists offer treatment as individual as you are, helping make life more easy, comfortable and enjoyable. n

According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, dementia is the most feared health condition for people over the age of 55, even more so than other major diseases such as cancer and diabetes. And dementia is on the rise, with risk roughly doubling every five years as we age.

Hearing actually happens thanks to our brains, not our ears! The auditory and language portion of our brain receives the appropriate sound signals from our ears to be interpreted. Decreased hearing leads to reduced brain stimulation which will contribute to cognitive decline.

Preston Hearing Care Centre is currently offering free hearing checks, so get in touch now to book your appointment.

FREE HEARING HEALTH CHECK

Preston Hearing Care Centre

Preston Hearing Care Centre reveals the link between dementia risk and hearing loss

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s we get older, we look forward to the sort of lifestyle we might enjoy – working less, spending more time with our family and friends, enjoying hobbies, travelling. Sadly, if dementia strikes some people may find themselves robbed of the future they’d always dreamed of.

KEEP YOUR BRAIN SHARP AND REDUCE YOUR RISK OF DEMENTIA. DON’T PUT YOURSELF AT RISK BOOK A FREE HEARING CHECK TODAY.

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Dementia transforms identities and reconstructs relationships. Understandably, dementia causes people to worry about the quality of later life, but recent research indicates that getting professional support at the right time for hearing loss is important for continuing to lead a happy, active and enjoyable existence.

Hearing aids may lower the risk of dementia by more than 40 PERCENT, a Lancet study suggests.

Hearing Check @ Preston Hearing Care Centre 167 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 3BH 01772 862000 Hearing Check @ The Lytham Clinic 6 Church Road, Lytham, FY8 5LH 01253 732211

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health&beauty

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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FIRST CLASS HEALTH CARE

investment in the development of a new imaging and X-ray suite. The project welcomed a first-of-its-kind imaging technology to the area alongside the transformed clinical and patient facilities. In November this year, the opening of a new minor procedures’ unit, will allow for increased capacity and improved patient treatment pathways for lower complexity treatments including pain management and minor orthopaedic and ophthalmology services.

At Beardwood and Lancaster, CHG’s aim is to provide a pathway that enables patients to access a wide variety of health services quickly. From complex knee and hip joint replacement procedures to accessing outpatient physiotherapy to aid recovery. CHG has forged a reputation as a progressive, forward thinking health provider that puts patients first.

Providing first-class private health care, the renowned Beardwood and Lancaster Hospitals, part of the Circle Health Group, are giving patients fast access to vital health and wellbeing services

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wo of Lancashire’s leading private hospitals are now part of the prestigious Circle Health Group (CHG) the largest private healthcare provider in the UK with 54 state-of-the-art hospitals and access to 6000 expert consultants.

The Beardwood and Lancaster Hospitals are two of the 48 former BMI hospitals acquired by CHG in 2020. The acquisition has meant that both hospitals have seen significant long-term investment to enhance their facilities and services.

At Beardwood, a new modular theatre has been added to increase capacity – the hospital now has three state-of-the-art operating theatres giving patients more choice when opting for a date for their procedure.

Additional facilities at Beardwood include a dedicated CT and MRI scanning centre, a minor procedures unit, a six-bed ambulatory care unit, orthopaedic, general surgery and

gynaecology services as well as a newlyrefurbished X-ray department.

Heading up the two Lancashire hospitals is Executive Director Philip O’Ehley, highly experienced in the private healthcare industry.

Philip began his hospital management career in South Africa, before moving to the UK to work for BMI Healthcare and latterly with other private healthcare providers.

“Our focus for both hospitals is very much defined by enhancing patient access to the facilities we have – offering an optimal service to all patients, both private and NHS,” explained Mr O’Ehley.

“We would like patients to choose Beardwood and Lancaster for ease of access, offering appointment times suited to fit around busy lifestyles, excellent patient experience, outstanding quality of care and quicker recovery times.”

Beardwood and Lancaster can offer patients comprehensive care including non-invasive outpatient procedures to complex surgery covering orthopaedic, spinal and general surgery specialties.

Patients can also directly access private physiotherapy services that are available Monday to Saturday.

To further support patients, a virtual online GP service is now available, operating 8am-10pm, 7 days a week, allowing access to private GP appointments. If a referral to a specialist is required, an appointment can be conveniently arranged.

Last year Lancaster benefited from huge

Beardwood and Lancaster have undergone a re-brand, incorporating the hospitals into the CHG network, but have kept their original names to maintain recognition and familiarity within the local community.

Digital efficiency is playing a huge part enabling patients to take control of their own health and wellbeing including opening up access by launching online appointment bookings and where possible, virtual consultations.

Patients can be referred by their GP or they can book an appointment online on the Circle Health Group website. In some cases, a GP referral is not always required. Both hospitals are recognised by all the leading healthcare insurers, enabling access to patients who have private medical insurance. n To find out more about the full list of services available at Beardwood and Lancaster Hospitals go to the Circle Health Group website

Lancaster Hospital Meadowside, Lancaster LA1 3RH 01524 62345 circlehealthgroup.co.uk

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Why wait for treatment when you can visit your local private hospital?

There are many advantages when you go private for healthcare, including: Skip the waiting lists and get fast access to treatment The choice of when to have your treatment The ability to choose your preferred Consultant Book your initial consultation online with a consultant of your choice A greatly reduced chance of cancelled or rescheduled appointments and procedures (we’d only ever do so in an emergency)

To find out more or to book an appointment: Beardwood: 01254 507 607 Lancaster: 01524 62345 27894 2623 MKT ADV / 09.2023

4558_27894_2623 MKT ADV_BEA LAN Advert Local Hospital.indd 1

21/09/2023 11:14

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DONOR APPEAL Donating stem cells is a simple procedure that could help save someone’s life. Find out how you could become a donor

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nternational charity DKMS and UK-based Antony Nolan are both dedicated to fighting blood cancer and blood disorders, which are caused by changes in the genes of blood cells.

Our bodies make billions of new blood cells every day and mutations can come about during this process. When stem cells divide and multiply, the DNA is copied from one cell into two new cells. However, sometimes ‘spelling mistakes’ happen in the DNA code when it is copied.

Cancers develop when cells gather a number of gene changes over time, which affect how they behave.

Unlike normal blood cells, cancer cells have lost the failsafe mechanism that makes them die when they’re damaged, so they grow and multiply uncontrollably, flooding the bone marrow and the bloodstream, crowding out other healthy blood cells.

There are three main types of blood cancers – leukaemias, lymphomas and myeloma.

Both DKMS and Anthony Nolan work tirelessly to match potential stem cell donors to blood cancer and blood disorder patients in urgent need of a stem cell transplant.

Both need people to donate stem cells in order to expand their registers in order to increase the chance of being able to save someone’s life.

Young people are most likely to be chosen to donate as they provide better outcomes for patients and are less likely to have any longterm health problems which might delay or prevent donation. Anthony Nolan takes donors aged 17-30 and DKMS takes donors aged 17-50.

Every 14 minutes, someone is diagnosed with blood cancer or a related disorder.

Over 2,000 people in the UK are in need of a bone marrow or stem cell transplant every

year. As only one in three patients will have a matching donor in their family, two thirds of people need to find an unrelated donor elsewhere. Every day, at least five people start their search for a matching unrelated stem cell donor.

Last year Anthony Nolan helped around 1300 people receive a stem cell transplant – giving them a second chance of life.

BOTH CHARITIES NEED PEOPLE TO DONATE STEM CELLS IN ORDER TO EXPAND THEIR REGISTERS IN ORDER TO INCREASE THE CHANCE OF BEING ABLE TO SAVE SOMEONE’S LIFE Ninety per cent of stem cell donations take place via peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection. This is a procedure similar to giving blood. It takes around five hours and is a simple outpatient procedure.

Once you’re on the register, your chance of being chosen to donate depends on your age and sex. Obviously, the donor and the recipient must have the same tissue type. As there are millions of different combinations, finding a suitable match is complicated.

Both DKMS and Anthony Nolan carry out world-class research into stem cell matching and transplants to improve outcomes for all patients and both urgently need more people to join their register so they can provide more matches and save more lives. n To find out how you could become a stem cell donor and help save someone’s life, go to: dkms.org.uk anthonynolan.org

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INSTANT ACCESS A GP service is offering instant appointments with access to specialist services. Photography: Andrew Clutterbuck

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r Farzaneh Mani runs private GP clinics at Spire Fylde Coast Hospital as well as her Lancashire GP clinic situated in Garstang. She is also an academic adviser at the University of Manchester Medical School and an examiner of clinical assessments for medical students.

The private GP service has expanded considerably over the past year and offers an efficient service with no waiting time for face-to-face appointments.

Dr Mani offers a health screening service which has many benefits, including prevention and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It can help identify underlying health issues and can significantly reduce risk and improve the prognosis of illness.

Several conditions such as thyroid problems, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and prostate cancer benefit from early detection.

Dr Mani recently diagnosed early prostate cancer in a number of patients which would have been missed otherwise.

One of Dr Mani’s specialities is menopausal services – she completed a course on the menopause and HRT recently to refresh and

update her knowledge and understanding of the latest treatments on offer.

Menopause can be associated with debilitating symptoms which often coincide with other modern-life challenges. The approach to menopause needs to be holistic and Dr Mani can help manage it.

Contact Dr Mani for health screening, menopausal services or any other medical conditions you need support with. She will offer you a speedy, efficient service and also provides access to a local private hospital for x-rays, scans and a specialist consultant, should they be required. n Lancashire GP 14 High Street, Garstang Preston PR3 1FA 01995 238081 lancashiregp.co.uk

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If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone If you or someone you know has cancer, who understands what you’re going through. you may find it helpful to talk to someone A team who can provide personal support who understands what you’re going through. and expert information. That’s what we do.

A team who can provide personal support So if you have any questions about and expert information.

That’s whatyour we do. treatment, concerns about your finances So if you have any questions about your or just want to talk, you don’t need to go treatment, concerns about your finances through it alone. We’re here for you. or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.free on Call the Macmillan Support Line

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Call the 808 Macmillan free on 0808 00 Support 00 (MonLine – Fri, 9am – 8pm) or0808 visit macmillan.org.uk 808 00 00 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

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Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613.

Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle.

Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613.

A MISSION TO TACKLE MELANOMA

lifestyle

Lytham’s David Uttley has been living with skin cancer since 2013.

Following a recent family bereavement, he discovered a determination to raise money to provide the area with specialist medical equipment which will help others facing melanoma, as Alma Stewart learns

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orn in the former Lytham Hospital on Warton Street, 59 year-old David Uttley has lived in the Fylde all his life with his roots firmly in Lytham. His grandad was one of the Parkinson family, a shrimper working on the local coast.

Following his studies at Kirkham Grammar School, David’s first job was at the NatWest bank in St Annes and a career in financial services followed. Married with a son, life chugged along nicely.

It was on holiday in Spain in 2013 when wife Patricia noticed the mole on David’s shoulder blade looked different. Once home, David’s GP sent him to the skin cancer service at Clifton Hospital where the mole was removed and the pathology lab confirmed it was malignant melanoma. More of David’s skin then had to be removed. He then remained under the careful watch of dermatology and plastics.

every day: “I’m afraid you have a sinister object in your pancreas.” I quite literally sank to my knees in sheer disbelief and terror. Pancreas is not good news! After some initial chats I went to the specialist unit in Blackburn Hospital under the very careful watch of my consultant Asma Sultana. She quite literally saved my life in a 14 hour operation in which she removed most of my pancreas. Originally, it was to be keyhole surgery but as the operation progressed it became clear that the team would have to revert to the more traditional method. The tumour had wrapped itself around a main artery – one nick in the wrong place could have been catastrophic. If it wasn’t for the scans, her expertise and the diligence of the oncology team at Rosemere in Preston, headed by Professor Ruth Board, I simply would not be here.”

used to create a ‘map’ of the whole body, assessing all moles and tracking any changes.

He started with a wing walk on 7th July near Cirencester on a 1940’s Boeing Stearman Biplane. David describes the experience: “A couple of days before I arrived, I rang to check exactly what was to happen on the flight.

It was a very well-structured circuit around the skies above the airfield with turns, climbs and dives that could be as severe as you instructed your pilot. A brilliant experience.

However, I opted to pay for a second flight complete with a loop, Cuban 8 and a couple of barrel rolls. High in the sky feeling free and just so beautiful.”

But the adventures did not stop there. On 30th July, David made a six-day expedition to the top of Kilimanjaro: “It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. At Uhuru Peak, 19,345ft above sea level, I spread some of my mum’s ashes that I had taken with me. It was a very emotional point of the trip for a whole host of reasons.

It was an incredible experience – physically, emotionally and mentally. A trip with four young people that I will never ever forget.”

IT WAS ON HOLIDAY IN SPAIN IN 2013 WHEN WIFE PATRICIA NOTICED THE MOLE ON DAVID’S SHOULDER BLADE LOOKED DIFFERENT David said: “Initially I was told to be extra vigilant when checking my lymph basins which I did fairly religiously. Then one day in 2017, I found a pea-sized lump in my right armpit and off to the consultant I went. The culprit was removed and then I was asked back to have the whole of my right armpit cleared of lymph nodes as a precaution.”

With this second issue, David pushed for regular scans. He had six monthly scans for three years which were all very uneventful.

Then in 2021 the scans were reduced to annually. The family relaxed a little, but once again, cancer reared its ugly head: “I remember being out on a walk with my wife when my skin cancer nurse rang. Her words echo nearly

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IT’S LIKE THE CLERGY SAYING THEY HAVE A CALLING – I JUST HAVE TO RAISE AS MUCH MONEY AS POSSIBLE Immunotherapy treatment followed, and though the cancer is classed as Stage 4, David explains: “When people hear the term ‘Stage 4’, they immediately think that it means terminal. But it just means that the cancer has spread to another area.”

Fate dealt another blow last year when David’s beloved mother, Elaine, passed away on a plane returning from a trip to Spain. After her funeral, David realised that he had to live his life being true to himself and decided to commit to raise money and awareness for the disease.

In December 2022, he set up a Go Fund Me page with a target of £45,000 for Melanoma UK. This amount is enough to buy a Horus Mole Mapping scanner which uses digital technology

David has raised more than £20,000 so far and is currently considering his next fundraising event. He added: “It’s like the clergy saying they have a calling – I just have to raise as much money as possible. I desperately want to make a difference for all those who come after me in their melanoma journey. I am one of the lucky ones. I want people to be more aware of their skin – use sunscreen, check for moles, visit the GP with any concerns and don’t use sunbeds. Please be more aware – you can avoid this terrible disease. Life is too short as it is.” n If you would like to sponsor David visit: gofundme.com/f/-challenge-david-uttley For more information on skin cancer visit: melanomauk.org.uk

FESTIVE FUN AT We look forward to welcoming you at the Gibbon Bridge for the perfect festive celebration with friends and family.

CHRISTMAS WREATH DEMONSTRATION & WORKSHOP

CHRISTMAS LUNCHES IN THE RESTAURANT

Monday 11th December 10.30am

Commence Friday 1st December

Morning demonstration where Anne and Grace will show off their floristry skills to show you how to make a festive wreath.

LUNCH 12 noon – 2pm 2 Courses £29 • 3 Courses £35

Followed by a delicious lunch of traditional turkey with all the trimmings and Christmas pudding with our famous brandy sauce accompanied by a glass of wine.

DINNER 6pm – 7:30pm 2 Courses £31 • 3 Courses £37.50

Afternoon workshop with Anne and Grace, who will provide all the materials and help you step by step to ensure you take a gorgeous wreath home that you will proudly display for the festive season.

SUNDAY LUNCH 12 noon – 2pm 2 Courses £32 • 3 Courses £38.50

Half-day £40pp inclusive of morning coffee, demonstration and two course lunch Full-day £70pp inclusive of coffee, demonstration, two course lunch and afternoon workshop to make a wreath to take home.

Special accommodation rate for full-day attendees: £160 Double occupancy £110 Single occupancy Including 2 course Dinner, B&B Payment required on booking.

CHRISTMAS BRASS BAND CONCERT

Saturday 2nd December 12 noon for 12.30 Join us for a festive celebration with Lostock Hall Memorial Brass Band. With a two course lunch of traditional turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas pudding, tea or coffee and mince pies. £40pp – payment required on booking

CELEBRATE | DINE | STAY

CHRISTMAS FUN DAY WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS! Saturday 23rd December 11.30am

This is a fabulous afternoon for all the family!

Not only is Father Christmas joining us, but our children’s entertainer will be with us to entertain them during the afternoon as well! All the children will receive a gift.

Adults £25 Children 5 – 12 £15 Children under 5 £7.50 Payment required on booking.

CAROLS AND FISH & CHIPS TEA Saturday 23rd December 6pm

A fish & chip supper followed by a carol concert lead by mezzo soprano Naomi Holland. We provide lyric sheets so everyone can join in all the fun.

Adults £25 • Children £15 • Payment required on booking.

Stay the night for only £150 B&B per room based on two sharing.

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

Monday 25th December 12 noon – 2pm Adults £120 • Children 10 or under £50 £25pp deposit – payment in full by 1st December

BOXING DAY LUNCH

Tuesday 26th December 12.30pm – 2.30pm Adults £45 • Children 10 or under £25 £25pp deposit – payment in full by 1st December

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA DINNER DANCE

Sunday 31st December 7pm arrival £110.00pp • £25pp deposit – payment in full by December 1st Double or Twin Room £450 Double or Twin Suite £500 Staple Oak Suite £600 £250 deposit – payment in full by 1st December

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER Sunday 24th December 7pm

Our roaring fire awaits you along with a warmed glass of Gibbon Bridge Mulled Wine and the chef’s favourite canapes.

These are followed by a three-course dinner and coffee and entertainment from the wonderful Wal & Dave. £45pp • £25pp deposit – payment in full by 1st December

NEW YEAR’S DAY LUNCH Monday 1st January 12.30 – 1.30pm

2 Courses £32 • 3 Courses £38.50 £25pp deposit – payment in full by 1st December

Head to gibbon-bridge.co.uk to discover the full list of events and offers The hotel will close after lunch on New Year’s Day and re-open for lunch on Sunday 7th January 2024

Chipping, Lancashire PR3 2TQ • 01995 61456 reception@gibbon-bridge.co.uk • gibbon-bridge.co.uk

WALKING SAVED MY LIFE! From teacher to author, Lytham’s Steve Garrill, found his passion in long distance walking, so much so, he has written two fascinating guidebooks so that others can enjoy the pleasure of the outdoors.

With a number of routes to follow and a chance to discover some local history along the way, Steve recalls how he discovered his wonder for a wander

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t the age of 40, I was working silly hours as a teacher. My career was progressing well, but my health was suffering.

I was pale, overweight and very unhealthy.

I found time to visit my GP with a niggling bad back. He sent me off for various tests and scans. I was called in to be told, very unsympathetically, that I would be in a wheelchair within five years. He prescribed a very high daily dose of Ibuprofen…

Some of my friends were walkers and, on a whim, decided I should do a long-distance walk – before it was too late. I chose the Dales Way from Ilkley to Windemere, bought all the necessary clobber, booked the accommodation and set off.

I loved it! I got the bug, learnt a lot (especially to carry less gear). Somehow or other my bad back disappeared. I trained hard and became

a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition leader. I organised and led many charity walks over the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

Eventually I found a publisher and the route from Preston to Carlisle became a book. It sold rather better than I expected.

Eventually I ended up completing most of the long-distance walks in the North of England plus the West Highland Way. Walking was not only good for me physically, but also mentally.

Moving on, I stayed in teaching, but turned down a deputy headship, preferring instead to move to St Bede’s Catholic High School in Lytham as Head of ICT. I also developed the DofE there virtually from scratch.

SOME OF MY FRIENDS WERE WALKERS AND, ON A WHIM, DECIDED I SHOULD DO A LONG-DISTANCE WALK – BEFORE IT WAS TOO LATE

The life changing accident

But… I wanted to put together my own walk!

It had to be between two mainline railway stations, it had to have as little as possible road walking, include snippets of history, nice photographs and the instructions had to be clear, simple and correct. So ensued many happy hours with OS maps all over the floor. Many more happy days walking, modifying and constantly rechecking the route and the directions.

Bang! Cycling home from St Bede’s in September 2015, I was hit head on by a van.

I smashed the windscreen and catapulted over the top. According to an eyewitness, I flew rather well but the landing was heavy.

Fractured skull, pelvis broken in four places and severe internal injuries. My family was warned that I would probably be paralysed and possibly brain damaged. During the three months on my back in hospital, I was able to re-evaluate my life and read lots of books.

The doctors were impressed that I had even survived the accident and put it down to my fitness – in other words walking probably saved my life. Luckily, I was able, bit by bit, to

lifestyle get back to walking, and eventually cycling.

In 2019 I finally retired from St Bede’s, got remarried, bought a campervan and re-walked the North West Way.

A new book

It was then that I decided that, after 10 years, the book needed a major overhaul and include full OS mapping. It turned out to be a mammoth task. The layout and design were handled by Ken Dawson from St Annes (ccovers.co.uk) who has created more than 600 awesome book covers. Drone photography was provided by my friend Mark McNeill, an award-winning local photographer.

FOR YEARS PEOPLE HAD BEEN ASKING ME FOR A BOOK OF LOCAL WALKS The North West Way is a long distance walk from Preston railway station to Carlisle railway station. It is designed to be completed by anyone of average fitness. It includes full 1:25000 OS mapping, some stunning photography and accommodation details.

For more information, photos and up-to-date accommodation details please visit: www.northwestway.uk.

And another book!

I was extremely pleased with the appearance of the published book – but, no rest for the wicked!

For years people had been asking me for a book of local walks. Now I had the experience to do it, and the help and support of my lovely wife Sharon – the cover girl on both books!

Walks from the South Fylde Line is a book of seven walks from Lytham, Ansdell, St Annes, Blackpool (Squires Gate) and Preston railway stations. There are maps, simple directions and beautiful photos. Drone photography for this book is provided by Gregg Wolstenholme.

And there is plenty of absolutely fascinating local history. The book features QR codes with most routes wheelchair and pushchairfriendly, plus, Lytham is exceptionally dogfriendly too. n

The North West Way: northwestway.uk Walks from the South Fylde Line: lytham.online/walks Available in paperback from: (signed by author) Plackitt & Booth Booksellers 87c Clifton Street Lytham FY8 5ER

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EPIC ADVENTURE Metheven Bond explains why he enjoys the adventure of gravel riding, his favourite routes and reveals his best race this year

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grounds in the UK. My favourite local gravel loop includes the Trough of Bowland, where a steep climb up Salter Fell loops back around to Gisburn trail centre. Its where I love to push myself and the bike to its limits around the red and black trails.

ibble rider and local resident, Metheven Bond will be competing for Team GB at this year’s Gravel World Championships. We caught up with him to talk all things gravel.

the whole event. It was my longest ever ride, let alone race, at 200 miles. The race itself saw carnage at the beginning due to the ‘peanut butter’ mud causing everyone’s bikes to grind to a halt. It then became a race of attrition and a battle for survival.

My favourite was The Rift in Iceland which centred around an active volcano and the course involved crossing lava fields and glacial rivers. it felt like riding on the surface of Mars!

What is ‘gravel’ riding and how did you get into it?

Gravel riding is having a bike which you can just go out on a ride and go wherever you like no matter the terrain. You always end up somewhere which you never thought possible to reach on two wheels, which adds to a real sense of adventure and accomplishment.

Plus, these days I get to travel the world racing in some epic locations!

Where’s the best place for gravel riding in the North West?

You are spoilt for choice – gravel riding up in the north is so varied and the elevation challenging. It makes for the best training

THE RACE ITSELF SAW CARNAGE AT THE BEGINNING DUE TO THE ‘PEANUT BUTTER’ MUD CAUSING EVERYONE’S BIKES TO GRIND TO A HALT What bikes do you ride?

My Ribble Gravel SL and Ribble Endurance SL road bike. Most of my basic training is done on the road bike but I do complete at least one long gravel ride a week just to keep my off-road skills in check and occasionally I enjoy a change of pace by loading it up and going bikepacking. For the Worlds, I will be debuting Ribble’s new gravel ‘Stone’ inspired racing machines which is really special.

And finally, what do you like to do if you’re not racing or working?

As mentioned, I do enjoy the occasional weekend of bikepacking. I love exploring new roads and the sense of freedom that it gives you. Off the bike my biggest weakness is cake – eating it and baking it! n Discover your adventure bike at Ribble’s flagship showroom in Clitheroe where one of their experts will be on hand to take you through their extensive range or visit online: ribblecycles.co.uk

What has been your best race this year?

Unbound in the USA was particularly memorable simply because of the scale of

ribblecycles.co.uk

A MOST IMPERIAL REIGN Since 1867, Blackpool’s regal Imperial Hotel has been standing proud on the seafront. Over the years, it has accommodated a number of high-profile guests, changed its use during two World Wars and most recently, rediscovered its original Victorian Turkish baths. Alma Stewart meets the hotel’s marketing manager, Steph Evans, to discover more about this fascinating history

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here are many hotels that can boast of famous and glamorous guests but how many can include every British Prime Minister for 70 years, members of the Royal Family, Hollywood stars, The Beatles and even Charles Dickens?

Welcome to the Imperial Hotel Blackpool.

The Grade II listed building reflects a French Renaissance design and the interior is full to the brim of the palatial period features of the Victorian era. Architects Clegg and Knowles of Manchester designed the hotel which was built with a cost of £22,170.

The building was constructed as a temperance hotel and focal point sitting

within the exclusive Claremont Park Estate, aimed at the aristocracy, gentry and clergy and only accessible by a toll road.

WE WERE STUNNED TO FIND THE ORIGINAL TILES BEHIND THE PLASTER WORK In 1863, the North Pier was completed and rapidly became a central attraction for elite visitors who were drawn to the Claremont Park Estate on the northern outskirts of the town.

The prohibition of alcohol led to the Imperial becoming the venue of choice for important

municipal events including celebrations for the opening of the Winter Gardens and a gala dinner to celebrate the laying of the foundations for The Blackpool Tower.

In 1898, the Imperial then embraced hydrotherapy using seawater to utilise the restorative powers of water for the fashionable treatments to alleviate many maladies. Known as the Imperial Hydropathic Hotel for a while, there was even a doctor on hand to advise guests seeking relief of their ailments. These basement rooms were eventually covered up in the 1950s but have recently been rediscovered, revealing stunning features including bespoke Burmantofts tiles. The hotel’s marketing manager, Steph Evans, explains: “We always knew the Baths were here somewhere and we use the basement rooms as staff offices.

One day, a colleague moved some boxes in the office and disturbed some plaster. We were stunned to find the original tiles behind the plaster work and contacted English Heritage for advice.”

With such an important find, the Blackpool Civic Trust deployed a team of volunteers

lifestyle

to carefully remove the years of plaster and concrete while preserving the tiles, a process that took 21 people, working one day a week, two years to complete. Steph continued: “We were staggered at what was slowly being revealed. The tiles still have their original glazing. We also discovered the original mosaic floor but this has not been as easy to restore.

By removing the concrete, the mosaic is becoming damaged, so we will have to find a kinder way to reveal it.”

Another fascinating story associated with the baths is that of a male massage therapist that worked within the rooms: “I came across the story of the tale of a young masseur, who we think was a local man called Leonard Taylor. In those days all massage therapists were men. He had more ambition than working in a hotel. He left to work on cruise ships and ended up on the Titanic where he sadly drowned with the sinking ship,” Steph added.

Eventually, the baths may possibly be earmarked to become a drinks reception area.

Some of the hotel staff are part of The Imperial Hotel Heritage Ambassador programme. Once trained, they get special pin badges and are capable of taking guests around the building on special tours – guests will be able to view the Turkish baths for themselves.

But the intriguing history of the hotel doesn’t stop there. During World War I, the Imperial was commandeered as the Atlantic Military Hospital for shell-shocked officers.

A mortuary slab was installed in the wine cellar, which still exists today. During World War II, the hotel housed the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and was only returned to the hotel owners in 1951.

THE QUEEN MOTHER, PRINCESS MARGARET AND PRINCESS ANNE HAVE ALL ENJOYED A STAY IN THE STUNNING BALMORAL SUITE And so to the famous guests. In 1869, Charles Dickens was travelling the country on his public reading farewell tour. At Preston, he collapsed and was ordered to cancel the rest of the tour and rest. Dickens booked into the Imperial where he described the hotel as a ‘charming place of rest’.

The hotel’s Number 10 Bar is so-called because of its links to British Prime Ministers, most of whom have visited before, during or after their premier role. It was Winston Churchill who first brought the party

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conference to Blackpool in the 1950s. The bar is also famous for creating the Mayflower Spirit cocktail, winning a national competition to be served on the final leg of the voyage of the Mayflower II. Other most notable guests include members of the Royal Family, the first in 1912 when Princess Louise, the sister of King George V, opened the new section of the Promenade, ‘Princess Parade’. The Queen Mother, Princess Margaret and Princess Anne have all enjoyed a stay in the stunning Balmoral Suite.

Steph added: “Due to the number of theatres and entertainment venues in Blackpool, plus the attraction of the Illuminations, our guests over the years have included Gracie Fields, Fred Astaire and Errol Flynn. In 1964, the Beatles introduced their new film, A Hard Day’s Night, at the Winter Gardens. They all stayed here afterwards, and we have a photo of them sprawled on one of our sofas that still remains in the hotel to this day.”

This is one special place indeed. n

imperialhotelblackpool.co.uk

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CHARITY F O C U S Read-Easy Preston is a charity that focuses its support for adults who struggle to read If you want to highlight a charity, please contact: alma.stewart@live-magazines.co.uk

Imagine for a moment that you are unable to read. You can’t fully enjoy this issue of Preston & Fylde magazine, follow a recipe or fill in a form.

Deciphering emails from your child’s school is a struggle, and how on earth do you help with homework and hold down a job? Thankfully, for most of us this isn’t an issue, but you might be surprised at just how many adults in our region struggle to read.

Read Easy Preston is a local registered charity (affiliated to Read Easy UK) that provides free, one-to-one training for adults who cannot read but want to learn. It’s run by a team of local volunteers who, after setting up the charity in 2021, are now teaching more than 20 adults to read, and they even have a waiting list!

What sets it apart from other adult education programmes is that learner readers are paired with a dedicated, DBS-checked reading coach, and they meet in local venues, such as libraries, where they can work safely and quietly together.

“It’s a joy to see our readers making such fantastic progress,” says Amanda. “Some have nearly completed the programme and will soon be able to apply for jobs or adult education courses. Others are delighted that they can now read to their children and grandchildren.”

Read Easy Preston is volunteer-run and needs new members to join its friendly team. There are a variety of positions available from reading coaches to admin roles so, whatever your background, if you have a few hours to spare then volunteering with the group is an exciting opportunity to help others and make a difference. As Amanda added, “It really is wonderful to see the effect that learning to read can have on adults who thought they had missed their chance.”

HAVING ACCESS TO CONFIDENTIAL COACHING OUTSIDE OF A CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT, WITH NO EXAMS OR PRESSURE, CAN HAVE A REALLY POSITIVE IMPACT ON AN ADULT’S LEARNING EXPERIENCE

As a charity, Read Easy Preston relies on donations and, although lucky to have been supported from the beginning by generous local businesses and community groups, the need for funding is constant.

“Many adults with literacy difficulties have bad memories of classroombased learning,” says team leader Amanda Carpenter. “Having access to confidential coaching outside of a classroom environment, with no exams or pressure, can have a really positive impact on an adult’s learning experience.”

Anyone over the age of 18 can learn with Read Easy Preston – some people might struggle with dyslexia while others simply didn’t find the support they needed at school. The charity trains local volunteers as reading coaches, and they guide their learner readers through a reading programme designed for adults.

If you can help, please contact the fundraising officer, Catherine, at: prestonfundraiser@readeasy.org.uk

If you would like to find out more about volunteering, please contact Maureen at: prestonrecruitern@readeasy.org.uk

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S! EW VI RE LE G O G O R EST A

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FI V

A GOOD YEAR… Everything Retreat is celebrating its first year – and what a year it’s been for this luxurious Ribble Valley hideaway

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ouise Monk’s inspired, long-term vision to create a luxurious retreat that would attract visitors to the Ribble Valley has most certainly been achieved in her first year. Over the past 12 months, Louise and her team have welcomed 1500 UK-wide and international visitors to Everything Retreat, which is tucked away in the rural Ribble Valley countryside.

Testament to their success, the exclusive hideaway has this year, won numerous awards taking a Stars in Tourism Award for Business Innovation, two Ribble Valley Business Awards for Best New Business and Social Media Champion, as well as being named as the Most Idyllic Place to Stay in Lancashire.

With 22.5k Instagram followers, Everything Retreat is not only a successful business in its own right, it also champions and supports other local businesses too, as Louise explains: “We have forged many successful collaborations with local restaurants and businesses through our unique concierge service.”

for all guests’ needs. From local butchers and bakers to suppliers of exclusive wine and celebratory balloons, visitors are assured of a first-class experience.

HERE AT EVERYTHING RETREAT WE FEEL VERY LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES AS WE GROW AND GET BUSIER BEFORE

Everything Retreat has partnered with the likes of Yu, Michelin-starred Northcote, Stydd Gardens and the Three Fishes, booking guests into restaurants, using local chauffeur services to transport them.

As part of their exclusive concierge service, Everything Retreat delivers, as the name suggests, just about everything a guest could wish for – breakfast in one of the luxury lodges is no problem. Louise has local artisan suppliers

Everything Retreat has forged a nationwide reputation as a high calibre experience where guests can mingle in the exclusive on-site Balance Bar at the end of a day spent discovering all that the Ribble Valley has to offer. Or, if visitors want relaxing, quiet time alone, they can have sundowners delivered to their door to be enjoyed in their very own hot tub.

Everything Retreat is unforgettable – it has put the Ribble Valley firmly on the map for travellers who want to explore and discover the area amidst a backdrop of

BEFORE

pure, unashamed luxury.

As for Louise and her team, Everything Retreat has been an undoubted success during their first year. Louise employs seven full time and four part time staff, who assist her in her vision to create a haven for guests, who are surrounded by wildlife.

Eighteen hundred plants, trees and shrubs have been planted, transforming what was a boggy wet field into beautifully manicured grounds that are maintained by an expert on-site team. There are hedgehog and bird boxes, an abundance of wildlife to sit and watch and in spring and summer beautiful blossoms sway in the breeze. Next year the retreat is also set to develop its own kitchen garden.

“Here at Everything Retreat we feel very lucky to be able to support local businesses as we grow and get busier,” says Louise, who through the retreat, has also supported local charities including East Lancashire Hospice.

“I think it’s very positive to be attracting people from out of the area – it shows them just how vibrant and beautiful the Ribble Valley is.” n

EVERYTHING retreat

Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Mellor BB2 7EQ 01254 965095 hello@everything-retreat.com everything-retreat.com everythingretreat RibbleValley

Escape this Christmas...

Make our place your place this Christmas. Join us for 2 or 3 night break and enjoy a decadent Christmas Day lunch and a tasty food hamper to enjoy on Christmas Day evening.

V I S I T J A M E S P L A C E S . C O M F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

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lifestyle

FABULOUS FYLDE THIS AUTUMN If a trip to the fabulous Fylde is on the cards this autumn, you won’t be disappointed. There is so much on offer with something for everyone as Fylde Borough Council’s Tourism and Cultural Services Manager, Tim Dixon, writes

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ow that we are into the autumn months, there’s still plenty going on in the area. During October and November at the Lowther Pavilion, there’s cinema, comedy, folk, jazz, ballet to name but a few, plus Rick Wakeman 10th - 11th November, folk pioneers Steeleye Span, Ed Byrne and many, many more to come – to find out what’s on at this popular venue in the heart of Lytham, just log onto the Lowther Pavilion website. In the adjoining park, Lowther Gardens, there’s always something to look out for and on 27th to 29th October there’s the Pumpkins in the Park event for all the family, plus don’t forget there’s the statue of former Lytham resident and comedy legend Bobby Ball, which was unveiled in August 2022.

From 24th October the Lytham Heritage Group is unveiling its latest exhibition, ‘Lytham’s Past’. The venue – the Heritage Centre, Henry Street – is open six days per week from 10am until 4pm (closed Mondays)

and features works of local artists. Entry is free, with donations always welcome.

Lytham Hall has plenty going on too including a calligraphy workshop on 18th October which looks fantastic – just log on to the Lytham Hall website for further information about what’s coming up at the historic Grade I listed Georgian Hall, set

THE STAFF VOLUNTEERS THERE DO A FANTASTIC JOB OF KEEPING THE GROUNDS AND SPLENDID HALL IN FANTASTIC CONDITION in 78 acres of mature parkland which are worth exploring all year round. The staff volunteers there do a fantastic job of keeping the grounds and splendid Hall in fantastic condition and of course, there’s the everpopular tearoom and Greg Anderton’s Leafy Lytham Hub for all your plant and garden requirements.

Two other upcoming events to look out for – 20th - 23rd October, the beaches of St Annes host the European Championships for the Mini Yacht class where the sport was born, so why not head to North Beach and visit the recently opened Beachcomber café too?

Looking ahead to 19th November, in aid of Children In Need, the River Ribble Ramble returns with the walk starting at Lytham Windmill at 1pm to Granny’s Bay at Fairhaven, before returning to the windmill. It’s such a great cause, so if you can make it, come and join Pudsey Bear!

Want to treat yourself? There’s the multi award winning five-star Cartford Inn overlooking the River Wyre and Bowland Fells with luxurious bedrooms and stunning food and drink using locally sourced ingredients or pamper yourself at Ribby Hall Village which includes the multi award winning four-star Spa Hotel with a wide range of treatments to rejuvenate yourself.

In rural Fylde, the Ship in Elswick has a new seasonal menu which is sure to be popular.

Plus, there’s the new Hole 19 at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens, so if you’re playing a round of adventure golf or just passing by on your regular walk, do stop off for a freshly brewed coffee and cake. n

To find out more, visit: discoverfylde.co.uk or contact the Tourist Information Centre during office hours on 01253 658443.

lifestyle

YOUR ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROCESS Choosing the right architect is the all-important first step in your building project. With their meticulous architectural design process and exceptional client-architect experience, you’ll get the design and build of your dreams with BCAE Architects, writes Sarah Ulyatt

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CAE Architects offer a detailed seven-stage architectural design process, dedicated to making the client journey as enjoyable and straight forward as possible from initial consultation to completion.

“Many of our clients have never embarked on a building project before and so our architectural design process clearly outlines what you can expect from us at each stage,” explains co-director of BCAE Architects, Arron El-Ammar.

“We have designed our architectural processes to be as flexible as your project requires – after all, every building is as unique as the people that live in it and we’re passionate about making sure we work together to create your dream home or living space.”

Having established BCAE Architects in 2022, Arron and co-director Ben Craven, offer highend, bespoke designs for contemporary house extensions, unique eco homes, rural barn conversions, home adaptations and larger scale residential schemes across the North West.

“Thank you so much for yesterday! It’s even better than we remembered. We were truly blown away by the concepts and can’t wait to proceed to the next steps.”

Jemma and Lee (Renovation and extension project)

SEVEN-STAGE DESIGN PROCESS Stage 0 – Feasibility / Consultation / Workshop

Whether you have a clear idea or need some guidance to help shape your plans, this free consultation will help you understand viability, possibilities, limitations, and costs.

Stage 1– Existing Site and Brief Analysis

Full detailed design requirements acquired, and full set of existing drawings produced, alongside any necessary surveys.

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Stage 3 – Developed Design

Further refinement of preferred option and any planning applications or Lawful Development Certificates submitted. A follow-up 3D walk-through and VR session.

Stage 4 – Building Regulations / Tender

Full support with building regulation applications and liaison with your approved building inspector. Fully detailed drawings and plans. Advise on a trusted network of reliable contractors to find a suitable builder or construction company.

Stage 5 / 6 – Construction

Start on site - the most exciting stage of your architectural journey! BCAE Architects manage the process on your behalf to keep the project on programme and budget.

Stage 7 – In Use

By project managing the architectural accuracy of your build, snagging inspections happen throughout the duration of the project. To ensure the very best finish, a final snagging inspection takes place once the build is complete.

Are you looking to design your own home, extend an existing one or refurbish your workplace? If so, reach out to talk to Ben or Arron about your project. n

Stage 2 – Concept Design

Initial proposed designs created. Review meeting and a 3D walk-through and Virtual Reality (VR) session.

BCAE Architects Unit 17, Guest House Farm Runshaw Lane, Euxton PR7 6HD 01772 454727 07540 591628 info@bcae-architects.co.uk bcae-architects.co.uk bcae_architects

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lifestyle

STAYING T LOYAL TO LOCAL A new initiative has been launched to reward customers to shop local in the Fylde. Adopting inspiration from the highly successful Kirkham Loyalty Card Scheme, the idea has been rolled out to other towns in the area

OUR FOCUS IS ON ENCOURAGING LOCAL SHOPPERS TO EMBRACE THEIR TOWN CENTRES AND SUPPORTING OUR INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

he Business Group Chairs of Kirkham, Lytham, and St. Annes were thrilled to announce the launch of the Fylde Borough Loyalty Card Scheme, building on the remarkable success of the Shop Local Scheme in Kirkham.

The scheme was launched during the pandemic when residents again began to realise the value in shopping local – one positive effect of the pandemic travel restrictions.

Supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Fylde Borough Council, this initiative aims to reinvigorate Fylde residents, weekday workforce, and visitors to embrace the charm of their local high streets while being rewarded for their support.

The Fylde Borough Loyalty Card Scheme, launched in August 2023 and running until March 2025, offers an exciting opportunity for businesses across the region to unite and encourage local shoppers to rediscover the magic of their town centres. Under this scheme, each town will boast its individuality while fostering community and pride in local shopping. The driving force behind this project comprises of passionate individuals dedicated to fostering growth and community spirit in the Fylde region.

Heidi Hopkinson, Head of Kirkham Business Group, Julie Ellington from Fylde Borough Council, Suzanne Taylor from Lytham Business Partnership, and Michelle Cuffe from St Annes Enterprise Partnership are at the helm of this transformative venture. To ensure seamless execution, the scheme has involved a Kirkham print and digital marketing company that has been on Kirkham high street for more than thirty years and was responsible for the branding of Kirkham’s initial shop local scheme. To assist with the branding and design of each loyalty scheme, managing material procurement and distribution, and providing social media support, PW Web Design Print will play a pivotal role in enhancing the reach and impact of the Loyalty Card Scheme. The firm will engage the community through live draw filming, social media posts, and facilitating the distribution of loyalty kits to local businesses.

The proven success of the Kirkham Loyalty Card Scheme serves as an inspiration for this broader initiative. With nearly sixty participating businesses and each card representing a minimum spend of £80, the Kirkham scheme has already generated an annual revenue of £22,000 for the town’s high street. Including Lytham and St Annes, this number is expected to triple, fostering economic growth within the local economies.

“We believe that by working together as a united front, we can better tackle the challenges posed by online retailers and doorstep delivery services,” says Heidi Hopkinson, Chair of Kirkham Business Group and Project Lead. “Our focus is on encouraging local shoppers to embrace their town centres, thus creating a ripple effect on the Fylde economy, supporting our independent businesses.”

Participants in the scheme will benefit from a loyalty card stamp each time £5 is spent in a local participating shop or business, including restaurants and hotels. There are prize draws every quarter. There are three prizes of £150, £75 and £50. The prize money is raised through sponsorship from local businesses. The Fylde Borough Loyalty Card Scheme beckons a new era of support for local businesses and an opportunity for the community to stand together.

As the roll out of this exciting project is underway, the scheme calls on companies across the Fylde region to seize the chance to participate in this game-changing initiative. n

For more information, please visit the official Fylde Borough Council’s website for local business: investinfylde.co.uk

For further information on the Shared Prosperity Fund, visit: gov.uk

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EDUCATION N E W S TV TREAT

AKS headmaster David Harrow and Director of Development Sarah Walton were welcomed to BBC Breakfast by its editor and alumnus, Richard Frediani, on a recent visit to its Manchester studio. Richard attended King Edward VII School finishing his education there in 1984. He started his broadcast career at Preston-based Red Rose Radio and has worked on local, regional and national level for more than 30 years. He has won a BAFTA and Royal Television Society awards. Mr Harrow and Mrs Walton got the chance to sit on the programme’s red sofa and meet presenters Sally Nugent and John Kay.

SILVER AWARD

The University of Central Lancashire has achieved a prestigious silver award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), a national scheme which rates higher education institutions in the areas students care about most. Run by the Office for Students (OfS) the TEF encourages improvement in teaching, learning, and achieving positive outcomes for students from their studies. The overall judgement is drawn from looking back at the last four years of performance in terms of student satisfaction, continuation, completion and progression metrics. Achieving this award means the university’s student experience and outcomes have been formally assessed as typically very high quality.

COLLEGE SHORTLIST

TENNIS ACHIEVEMENT

Myerscough College and University Centre has been named as a finalist in the Wyre Business Awards 2023. The awards are aimed at businesses which are located or deliver services within the Wyre area and aim to celebrate success stories and promote excellence. Myerscough has been shortlisted in the category of Rural Business of the Year with the award ceremony being held at Marine Hall Fleetwood in November.

The other shortlisted businesses in the category are A&G Precision and Sons Ltd and Fold House Park Ltd. The ceremony will be hosted by local comedian, and BGT winner, Steve Royle.

Continuing a long history of wide-ranging sporting success, Stonyhurst pupils Annabel and Hima have become county champions in their respective age categories. Annabel from St Mary’s Hall is now the U11s Singles Champion, while College pupil Hima triumphed in four events at the Lancashire County Championships, including the Women’s Singles, U18 Girl’s Singles, Women’s Doubles with partner Amy and U18 Girl’s Doubles with partner Mariam.

The Stonyhurst Tennis Camp is returning this October half term.

NATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE SUCCESS

HERITAGE PROJECT

During the Summer holidays, nine talented Westholme students were overjoyed to be accepted into National Youth Theatre’s prestigious theatre programme, where the acceptance rate is less than 10 per cent.

This was the first time Westholme hosted auditions for the National Youth Theatre and were thrilled when so many of their students gained a place. The students flourished during the two-week training programme and valued the skills and techniques they learnt amongst an array of talented professionals. Year 11 student Emilia said: “It was such an amazing experience that I will never forget and a highlight to my summer.”

To book, please visit: languageschool.stonyhurst.ac.uk

The Rossall Foundation is launching an appeal to ask for support to safeguard their buildings. The purpose of this project is twofold: to preserve the architectural heritage of Rossall School and Fleetwood; and to support the future ambitions of the school. The most iconic buildings date from the mid-nineteenth century. Twenty per cent of Fleetwood’s listed buildings sit on the Rossall School campus. Time has not stood still and these buildings are now in need of urgent repair. Wind, rain and salt have exerted a toll on the physical fabric of the listed buildings.

Find out more at: rossall.org.uk/rossall-foundation/

REGISTER HERE

Open Evening Thursday 19th October 18:00 - 20:00

Forest Adventure Friday 20th October 9:30 - 11:00

ited m i L ces or pla gf inin 25 a rem 4 & 20 202

www.ashbridgeschool.co.uk 01772 619900 Lindle Lane, Hutton, Preston, PR4 4AQ

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FYLDE’S SPECIAL PLACE

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YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 116 ART • INTERIORS • FASHION • MOTORING • BEAUTY • SHOPPING • BUSINESS • FOOD & DRINK • UK & INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY

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Live Magazines need enthusiastic and reliable delivery people to join our established teams across Preston and Fylde.

These opportunities are ideally suited to distributors working independently across two or three areas.

To do this you’ll need to be physically fit, have access to your own transport and have somewhere to store the magazines.

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NATIONAL RECOGNITION Being selected as a finalist in the Independent School of the Year is a cause for great celebration at Westholme, which delivers an unrivalled, skills-first education, writes Meena McDonald

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estholme has been selected as a finalist for the Independent School of the Year. This comes after being shortlisted for this prestigious national award last year too.

The Independent School of the Year 2023 Awards celebrate the demonstrable benefits of an independent school education and showcases the ‘life-affirming, future-enhancing student experience’.

Westholme is a finalist in the Careers Programme category and is delighted to be recognised for its enterprising outlook that focuses on the acquisition of 21st century essential skills.

Principal Dr Richard Robson comments:

“For every student in the school we look beyond academic achievement. The GCSE and A-Level exam results are the icing on the cake at Westholme. Our pioneering educational philosophy of delivering unrivalled holistic excellence focuses on a skills-first approach, essential for the modern workplace.

WE ARE ABOUT NURTURING AND DELIVERING THE MOST EXCITING AND FULFILLING OPPORTUNITIES TO EVERY STUDENT IN AN INSPIRING ENVIRONMENT “Our academic results are consistently high, but for us the true magic of Westholme lies in our incredible students, who stand out as emotionally intelligent, self-confident, motivated individuals who have their feet firmly on the ground and their dreams in the stars.”

The awards really are a testament to Westholme staying true to its philosophy and delivering what it promises.

From the tender age of four, students are provided with countless opportunities which

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encourage them to grow in confidence, believe in themselves, become resilient, work on their own initiative as well as in teams and reach their full potential – this all-round education goes far beyond the classroom.

The results of this unique approach to prepare Westholmians for the future is a combination of outstanding academic rigour along with the most rounded, articulate and prepared individuals you could wish for.

Each possesses exceptional skills enabling them to achieve whatever career path they desire, as well as help them to navigate through life itself.

This year has seen their largest ever cohort of students applying for and 100 per cent achieving, Level 6 degree apprenticeship places of their choice.

Ten current students have successfully secured prestigious Level 6 degree apprenticeships with a range of multinational companies including BBC, PwC, ARUP, Jaguar Land Rover and KPMG in disciplines such as accounting, product and marketing, engineering and technology.

The students were highly sought-after, with multiple offers made available to most of them – some achieved as many as seven offers for coveted schemes. This is a remarkable testament to the 21st century essential skills each student exhibits.

Eight of the 10 students cited above were awarded scholarships and bursaries to attend the INSPIRED Sixth Form, enabling them to receive the benefits of a Westholme education and the nationally recognised, outstanding careers support.

This year’s success can be attributed to engaging with students from Year 7 onwards and sparking an interest in apprenticeships and the benefits of choosing different higher education pathways. This early insight

enables students to focus on developing the 21st century essential skills as they progress through Seniors and the INSPIRED Sixth Form, which enables them to stand out from the crowd during the multiple assessment stages.

The development of the Westholme Alumni Network over the last two years, including dedicated online platforms and increased engagement, has also improved valuable networking opportunities for students. Engagement and interaction with inspirational alumni role models has been pivotal in broadening horizons, allowing students to make informed decisions about their future.

WE HAVE ENJOYED PRODUCING OUR SKILLS-BASED CURRICULUM THAT IS ENDORSED

BY INDUSTRY The Independent Schools of the Year 2023 isn’t Westholme’s only awards success.

The school was also very recently highly commended at a prestigious awards ceremony at the Education Business Awards.

Dr Robson continues: “We’re truly honoured to be recognised for our pioneering educational philosophy. Being an independent school provides the freedom to develop our own unique curriculum and we have enjoyed producing our skills-based curriculum that is endorsed by industry. We know that the CBI referred to a dearth of skilled graduates

before the pandemic and Westholme provides every opportunity to address this concern and challenge our students to develop the skills that are highly sought after in business.

We are passionately committed to continue to pioneer the education of the future at Westholme.

“That is what Westholme is about. We are about nurturing and delivering the most exciting and fulfilling opportunities to every student in an inspiring environment, with emphasis on frontloading experiences to inculcate the 21st century essential skills that prepare our young people for the world of work as well as for life itself.”

Westholme is fast becoming the most sought-after school in the region as more and more parents discover its ground-breaking philosophy coupled with down-to-earth, hardworking, humble and incredibly happy students! n To find out more about how Westholme continues to pioneer the future of education, please contact: registrar@westholmeschool.com

Westholme School Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road Pleasington BB2 6QU 01254 506070 westholmeschool.com

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hen it comes to the loving of what you do, you’d be hardpressed to find anyone who embodies this better than The Spa Hotel manager, Andrew Scott.

Ribby Hall Village will be celebrating its 30th year in business in 2024.

From derelict holiday site to a five-star resort, its success has been impressive. Part of its triumph includes the award-winning luxury Spa Hotel. Alma Stewart meets the hotel manager, Andrew Scott, to discover his accomplishments as the longest serving employee on the site

Andrew will celebrate his thirtieth anniversary at Ribby Hall Village in January and in his own words: “They will have to carry me out of here in a box.” With his warm, friendly and upbeat disposition, it’s easy to see that Andrew has all the personal skills required for this special position.

It is an exciting time for the hotel. With £400,000 being invested in upgrades to the rooms, £290,000 spent in sustainability measures and a new cold room sensory experience planned, plus a new restaurant, Andrew’s vast experience is helping guide

business

work which led to a door supervisor role at the on-site Celebrations nightclub which then led to me becoming the entertainment manager until 2010.”

As the entertainments manager, Andrew introduced a number of ‘new’ events at the time including weddings – the first being the daughter of a well-known local estate agent – banqueting, cabaret, fundraisers and talent shows.” I was an Elvis impersonator for many years and so I loved being able to fill the entertainment schedule with a number of acts working with a number of top agents at the time. I loved being able to serve our customers with a fun experience and providing the service for brides and grooms on the best day of their lives,” Andrew added.

I LOVED BEING ABLE TO SERVE OUR CUSTOMERS WITH A FUN EXPERIENCE AND PROVIDING THE SERVICE FOR BRIDES AND GROOMS ON THE BEST DAY OF THEIR LIVES Sadly, Bill Harrison died in 1999, passing the CEO mantle on to his son Paul who retained the family values, ethos and principles instilled by Bill which still continue today.

This marked the beginning of an extremely successful business partnership between Andrew and Paul that has spanned nearly three decades.

the hotel into the next step in its journey.

But the beginning of career was very different.

As a youngster, Andrew worked at the Marton Mere caravan site, a former refuse tip bought by businessman Bill Harrison. When Bill sold the site to Haven in 1996, he had his sights set on creating a five-star holiday village, the potential for which he found at the 100-acre site at Wrea Green. This partly developed and derelict caravan site offered the opportunity for Bill’s vision and 29 years later, is now a multi-million business attracting more than one million visitors a year.

Bill asked Andrew if he would be interested in working at the new site. Andrew said: “I was studying a degree in Business and Law and needed a part time job, so Mr Harrison asked if I would like to do some casual bar

In 2010, the Harrison family turned its attention to the 29 bedroom, Manor House Hotel and decided to invest heavily into transforming into an adult-only spa hotel.

They obviously needed a hotel manager to run the new venture and Andrew instantly jumped at the chance. He said: “I had absolutely no idea how to run a hotel, but I knew I wanted a chance to run it. One of my many passions is delivering first class customer service and so I spoke to the HR manager, and asked if I could be considered.

Six interviews later, I got the job!”

Andrew worked incredibly hard for the first two years, learning the ropes of hotel management and getting the new spa concept off the ground: “We had to build credibility, deliver an outstanding food service, establish a new spa, recruit and train the right employees plus I was a new father at the

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time, so it was quite full on. The hotel opened on 19th August 2011 with 42 rooms (now 38) and since then, we have established a settled and focused team of 150, who feel valued, trained and developed.”

As for many businesses, the coronavirus pandemic effected the hotel, but the team worked together and eventually saw the rise in the ‘staycation’ which benefitted the whole Village as the trend for holidays in the UK became increasingly popular.

Andrew explained: “The whole team worked their socks off during the pandemic. The hospitality industry was hit hard, but the team really worked so supportively together through thick and thin and I am really proud of them all.”

So, with nearly 30 years under his belt at Ribby Hall Village, what is the secret of his success?

“I have a genuine love for customer service and delivering the best possible experience,” he said. “Every day is different and sometimes challenging which keeps me driven. As a former entertainer, the hotel becomes my stage and with a genuine interest in people, I always put myself in a guest’s shoes and treat them as I would like to be treated.

I HOPE THAT I HAVE ADDED VALUE IN MY SERVICE TO BOTH GUESTS AND COLLEAGUES AND HAVE HELPED MAKE SOMEONE ELSE’S DAY A BRIGHTER ONE “I think that if I create a positive and enthusiastic energy, it becomes contagious.

We’ve all had horrific times in our lives, and that drives me to focus on the positives in life and when guests stay with us, they deserve a fantastic experience, which we all make sure they receive.

“Each morning, I drive into work listening to upbeat music to inspire me for the day ahead. My daily entrance into the Hotel is to positively impact as many people as I can in one day. By the time I drive out of the gate again, I hope that I have added value in my service to both guests and colleagues and have helped make someone else’s day a brighter one.” n

business

BUSINESS MATTERS

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Preston and Fylde, where business always matters If you have any Business Matters news items contact: alma.stewart@live-magazines.co.uk

STREET FOOD EXPANSION

THORNTON SMOKE HOUSE

After the resounding success of their debut restaurant within Preston Market Hall, Tipsy Chef Street Food have opened a second venue in Preston city centre. This marks a significant milestone for owner, Jay Oates, who only 16 months ago started on his first venture with his innovative culinary creations. Tipsy Chef’s second restaurant features the same commitment to quality ingredients, inventive dishes and impeccable service.

Tipsy Chef in Preston Market Hall, is open Monday to Saturday from 8am until 5pm and now at its second location on Lancaster Road, open Thursday to Sunday from afternoon until late.

Hickory’s Smokehouse has opened the doors in ThorntonCleveleys. The Chester based company, that operate 19 restaurants across the UK, are now open and ready to welcome you at their site on Fleetwood Road North. Known for their unique blend of authentic smokehouse dishes combined with an inventive drinks and cocktail offering, they are famous for their inclusive, community focused, family friendly vibe. With generous portion sizes, smokehouse favourites and BBQ classics, fall in love with the authentic tastes of the Southern states. Hickory’s is open from midday Monday to Friday and from 10am every Saturday and Sunday. You can catch brunch until 2pm every day.

ART DECO DECADENCE Winter Gardens Blackpool has unveiled a stunning Art Deco space which saw a major refurbishment plan to reinstate the original features to provide a luxurious hideaway for guests, with table service, to enjoy while visiting the venue to watch a show. Guests will arrive through the double sand-etched doors featuring geometric shapes and curves and walk into

a space that is reminiscent of the 1939 space when the room was first built. Welcomed by a host, they will be able to take a seat on one of the seven original refurbished banquettes and admire the original wooden friezes of figurines, while enjoying a complimentary pre-show drink.

Photography: Gregg Wolstenholme for Visit Blackpool

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FIREWORKS AND LIGHTS

FROM 263 TO AVEN

Three nations will compete in this year’s World Fireworks Championship in Blackpool. India, Switzerland and Italy will battle it out over the three free events which are taking place on the Tower Festival Headland, the last of which will be Italy’s display on Friday 20th October. The final performance, by Italian fireworks company Pirotecnica Soldi, will coincide with the launch of this year’s annual Lightpool Festival in Blackpool.

This award-winning Festival returns for October half-term with an amazing free-to-see programme of light installations, 3D projection shows, art trails and stunning live performances from 20th - 28th October. It will include world premieres and installations never before seen in the UK.

A Preston city centre three-rosette restaurant has relaunched with a new name. Aven is the new version of 263 close to Preston’s Avenham Park from which the new name is based.

Following some cosmetic work, the contemporary fine dining restaurant will retain 32 covers and will continue to delight customers with a British menu containing high quality local produce. Business partners Oli Martin and Alex Blamire together with Executive Chef Sean Wrest and Restaurant Manager Sam Haigh are looking forward to patrons returning to enjoy the intimate setting, warm hospitality, great wine and cocktails and of course, an exciting menu.

THE NEW VELAR

Land Rover Bolton Kay Street, Bolton, BL1 2RX 0330 108 1023 vertumotors.com/land-rover

RANGE ROVER

Land Rover Nelson Churchill Way, Lomeshaye Business Park, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 6LL 0330 108 0113

Vertu Land Rover is a trading name of Albert Farnell Limited which is an authorised representative of Bristol Street First Investments Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registration number 00391896. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered office: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.

AS GOOD AS IT GETS… Still going strong, the Land Rover Discovery still holds global kerb appeal and continues to shine, writes Paul Agnew.

Photography: Roger Moore

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hey say that the vehicles we drive today say much about us as individuals – that our choices reflect both our lifestyles and our characteristics.

But what about historical figures – what might Christopher Columbus have picked as his chosen mode of transport or Albert Einstein, Alexander Fleming or Isaac Newton for that matter?

To a man I reckon they would have all gone for a great Discovery!

And I daresay that the iconic Land Rover Discovery, launched in 1989, will still be holding global kerb appeal well into the future.

Originally designed to offer families a level of luxury travel never previously available, it was a hugely impressive and

highly versatile seven-seater of style and substance, capable of tackling any terrain and adventure.

Coming up to a quarter-of-a-century later and it’s still doing much the same – and doing it very well indeed.

The Discovery continues to shine as a vehicle of real pedigree which just keeps

on giving. Quite frankly, it’s impossible to dislike. Take one for a test drive and you’ll be smitten before you’ve even left the showroom.

I took a spin in the 3-litre D300 Dynamic HSE – one down from the range-topping Metropolitan – and it was an event to savour.

IT IS A VEHICLE WHICH HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME AND A BRITISH SUCCESS STORY TO SAVOUR Big and bold and spacious and comfortable (armchair levels of comfort), but not at all intimidating. Driving one, trust me, is an absolute breeze.

The power and performance are without question, everything is high-end and there’s still something very special about sitting behind the wheel of a Discovery. In contrast to more ‘car-type’ rivals, it’s not a cockpit-like experience.

This is different – a place of command, a

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Discovery styling cues remain firmly in evidence – the clamshell bonnet, the stepped roof and the highly visible C-pillar.

Visual changes are subtle. Signature LED headlights create a more purposeful look, plus there are animated sweeping front and rear indicators and a body-colour front fender vent. There are smarter signature LED rear lights too, which are joined across the back of the vehicle by a new Gloss Black panel.

place to do business and challenge the elements head-on, be they the snake-infested swamps of the rainy season in the Serengeti or the snarled-up traffic on a wet and windy morning on a school run in Lancashire.

You’re helped considerably by the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, the 8-speed automatic gearbox, 300hp and 650Nm or torque. Expect around 35 mpg.

If you want it to marry up with a caravan, horsebox or trailer then an astonishing three tonnes of towing capacity is as good as it gets. Indeed, the Advanced Tow Assist is ingenious, allowing drivers to complete potentially difficult reversing manoeuvres with minimum fuss.

Although some aspects have been upgraded and re-designed for 2024, all the usual

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new body colours have been added to the portfolio, Varesine Blue and Charante Grey.

When the original Discovery was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show it intended to compete with the likes of Nissan, Mitsubishi and Toyota in the ‘big car’ market.

THERE’S STILL SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL ABOUT SITTING BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A DISCOVERY Inside, the key change is the adoption of a Pivi Pro centre-dash infotainment monitor with its bigger 11.4-inch full-HD touchscreen.

This offers more immediate response, overthe-air updates, plus dual-SIM technology with LTE (Long Term Evolution) modems.

It complements the 12.3-inch Interactive Driver Display digital instrument cluster screen, which can include high-definition 3D navigation mapping.

The steering wheel and gear selector have been re-styled and the second row seats have been redesigned too with longer and thicker cushions.

It would be impossible to find space (without taking over the entire magazine) to run through the complete list of driver convenience gadgets and assists.

Suffice to say that it seems to have just about everything – even Alexa is on hand.

And the ‘in control’ remote app is worthy of a mention too. With it you can lock/unlock your vehicle from your smart phone from anywhere in the UK, start up the engine to de-mist the windows and add warm or cool air before you leave the house.

And if that’s not enough, a couple of tempting

But the Discovery didn’t just take them on, it won and by 2012 the one millionth model had rolled off the production line. And here we are celebrating the fifth generation.

It is more sophisticated, even smarter and probably a touch better looking than its predecessors, but the recipe behind the Discovery is pretty much as before.

A vehicle which has stood the test of time and a British success story to savour. n

Vertu Land Rover Nelson Churchill Way Lomeshaye Business Park Nelson BB9 6LL 01282 935426 Vertu Land Rover Bolton Kay Street Bolton BL1 2RX 01254 271125 vertumotors.com

A FUNKY MACHINE WITH A LIGHTER SIDE The INEOS Grenadier is now available to view, test drive and order at Bowker Ribble Valley.

Here Paul Agnew reviews a recent test drive.

Photography: Peter Austin

day in and day out, irrespective of weather or ground conditions – is gearing up to be far more things to far more people.

Designed to offer off road perfection and incredible performance over the toughest terrains, it also manages to be something of a funky machine with a lighter side.

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nd now for something completely different. Those of a certain vintage will recognise that catchphrase from Monty Python’s Flying Circus back in the day.

Some 50 years on and it is a word-perfect description for a vehicle that you can expect to hear a lot about, an awful lot about.

Take guard. This is the INEOS Grenadier.

If you thought it unlikely, perhaps impossible, to combine simplicity, strength and sophistication, then think again.

For the INEOS Grenadier – a 4x4 workhorse aimed at producing optimum performance

As great to drive on the road as it is off, this is a built-for-purpose, ready for anything, accept-any-challenge machine of incredible capability. Tuned and calibrated specifically for great driveability on any road, from city to motorway to twisty mountain pass.

It is the brainchild of global manufacturer INEOS. Under the supervision of chairman

IF YOU THOUGHT IT UNLIKELY, PERHAPS IMPOSSIBLE, TO COMBINE SIMPLICITY, STRENGTH AND SOPHISTICATION, THEN THINK AGAIN You certainly don’t have to be a landowner, builder, farmer or rural vet to appreciate its overall charm and appeal. The INEOS Grenadier is about great driveability on any road from town to motorway to twisty mountain pass… but expect a tractor load of fun along the way.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe (motor enthusiast and experienced adventurer), INEOS has identified a gap in the market for a stripped back, utilitarian, hardworking 4x4 vehicle engineered for modern day compliance and reliability.

Under the banner of INEOS Automotive, a specialist team of automotive professionals has brought a vision into reality and when

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they scoured the land in search of suitable Agents, they found Lancashire car supremo Bowker Motor Group to be the perfect fit.

You can now view, test drive and order the INEOS Grenadier at Bowker’s Ribble Valley dealership on the A59 in Osbaldeston, and I urge you to do precisely that.

At first glance this might appear to be something of a niche vehicle, yet the early signs suggest that the buying market could be much wider.

For my ‘test’ I climbed aboard the Trialmaster, named after the iconic Belstaff Trialmaster Jacket which debuted in 1948 to cope with the gruelling conditions of the Scottish Six Days Trial.

You start up the engine with a key, one of several throwback features to times when cars were not over-complex and unnecessarily crammed with zillions of might use, might not use, gadgets.

CIVILISED ON EVERY JOURNEY WITH ABSOLUTELY NO NEED TO TRADE ON ROAD COMFORT FOR OFF ROAD CAPABILITY You actually press buttons and turn dials – there is even a manual handbrake; nothing is complicated, but that’s not to say this is old school, far from it.

All the necessary modernity is there with every detail to satisfy the demands of the urban sprawl. Don’t worry! Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto is right there, as is an automated gearbox and a whole host of up to the minute features. The BMW three litre, six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines offer smooth power and plenty of torque, while always having something in reserve.

You’ll find a refined interior with a spacious and light cabin and super supportive seats to ensure a smooth ride. Civilised on every journey with absolutely no need to trade on road comfort for off road capability.

The Grenadier is rugged, durable, and seriously capable, but there’s more to it than meets the eye with a range of specifically designed, warranty-backed and fully tested accessories.

Take the rear 70/30 door, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Thanks to a foldable tailgate camp table specially designed to fit and taking up minimum space. No bouncing around off road, just a handy food/drink preparation surface that’s rugged, rattle free and ready to go.

It can carry up to 90kg on its roof whilst on the move – general luggage, tools, tents, bikes whatever you need to get to however far you need to go. A full-length (Rhino) roof rack helps you go the distance and hold it all in place. The more you fit on top, the less you have to keep inside, leaving even more cabin room for passengers and kit.

Solid side runners, with their flat, rubberprotected and slip-resistant surfaces, make

it easier for passengers of all sizes and ages to get in and out, while the bike carrier will transport your two-wheel friends to the hills or forest trails with minimum fuss.

There is a generous palette of traditional bodywork colours and interior styles to select from – even a high-vis wrap!

Plenty of choice and options… and when you need to make a move or move some stuff, then the willing Grenadier more than pulls its weight.

It lets you load it, tow it, drag it, recover it or strap it to the roof with a staggering 3.5 tonnes of towing capacity, up to 2000 litres of load space and 5.5 tonnes winching power.

The rugged, reliable INEOS Grenadier is a genuine head-turner. Expect to find an admiring audience whenever you rock up at the country show, racetrack, school gate or shopping centre.

For me, it is more than a vehicle for one purpose, more a versatile vehicle for multipurpose, easily capable of fitting in and significantly enhancing most lifestyles.

A true one off. There is nothing quite like it on the road and that in itself, makes the INEOS Grenadier very special indeed. n

Bowker Ribble Valley Bay Horse Garage Longsight Road Osbaldeston BB2 7HX 01254 769069 bowkermotorgroup.co.uk/ineos-grenadier Bowker INEOS Grenadier bowker_ineosgrenadier

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ELECTRIC SHOCK The BMW 5 Series has gone fully electric with a firecracker of a car that features intuitive technology and thrills aplenty, writes Paul Agnew

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ot every car manufacturer has it, but BMW has it in spades.

We’re talking about the ability to produce something not just special, much more than that – more like magical – a car that will have customers drooling and send competitors into shock mode.

Electric shock mode.

For the BMW 5 Series has gone fully electric for the very first time and it is an absolute beast of a machine. Launching on 21st October, it has a ‘range’ of up to 357 miles.

Proof, if you need it, comes from the impressive technical data. This is a proper performer with the range-topping BMW i5 M60 xDrive - a 593 bhp, twin-motor firecracker capable of 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds.

The alternative eDrive40 M Sport is no slouch either, just a couple of seconds behind its big brother and even more generous in terms of range.

Whatever your choice, the word you are looking for my friends is ‘wow’!

Unveiled to great acclaim just a few months ago, this ground-breaking all-electric saloon features an enhanced sportier design, blended

with intuitive technology and thrills aplenty.

The i5 takes your driving experience to the next level, delivering all the driving dynamics you would expect from a 5 Series.

It’s a real looker too with an appearance that is stylish, formidable and bullish – a sculpted exterior delivers a commanding road presence, while an elegantly crafted cabin showcases the latest journey-elevating BMW technology.

LAUNCHING ON 21ST OCTOBER, IT HAS A ‘RANGE’ OF UP TO 357 MILES The attraction is instant, you’ll like it from the get-go and like it even more when you climb aboard. In short, there are no negatives anywhere to be found.

Let’s look at a few of the standard highlights.

In terms of design and dynamics you’ll find 19” double-spoke bicolour alloy wheels, M Alcantara and Veganza upholstery in black, M Sport exterior styling including M Sport brakes in dark blue metallic and high-gloss

shadowline exterior trim, M Sport suspension, M leather steering wheel and front sport seats.

With regard to technology and connectivity there is a Harman/Kardon hifi loudspeaker system, AC charging-at-home or on-the-go with charging cable professional (22kW charging capacity) and BMW Connected Package Professional.

The wonderful BMW Live Cockpit Plus feature highlights a fully digital, customisable 12.3” instrument display with a high resolution 14.9” control display. An intuitive curved display ensures you are always connected through touch, voice or gesture.

Not overlooking the BMW Operating System 8.5 and Intelligent Personal Assistant with personalised user account options.

For your comfort and practicality, you’ll find heated front seats, automatic two-zone air conditioning, BMW Interactive Bar with ambient lighting and temperature adjustment, adaptive LED headlights and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.

All of the aforementioned features represent a mere snapshot of what is on offer here.

The BMW 5 Series – or ‘5er’ as many call it – has a long and rich heritage and has been a benchmark in executive saloons for decades.

With this superb i5, BMW has created even more magic, an all-round champion for a new era, an electrifying new era. Discover the joy of moving forward.

The new 5 Series line-up also includes a plug-in hybrid, delivering electric efficiency and performance with the versatility of a combustion engine – as well as a 520i petrol option for full fuel-power. n

Bowker Preston Channel Way Preston PR2 2YA 01772 769976 bowkerprestonbmw.co.uk @BowkerBMW @bmw_bowker bowker-motor-group

BUILT FOR THOSE WHO INSPIRE. THE FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC BMW 5 SERIES SALOON.

DISCOVER THE JOY OF MOVING FORWARD. Introducing the new fully-electric BMW i5. Featuring an enhanced sportier design, blended with intuitive technology and thrilling electrified performance, the i5 takes your driving experience to the next level.

With a fully-electric range of up to 357* miles, everything about the BMW i5 is designed for electrifying driving dynamics and agility.

At the forefront of the i5 is a modern and futuristic interior with artificial intelligence and technology integrated into the cabin. The 12.3” Information Display and 14.9” Control Display flow effortlessly into one another and introduce new functionalities to enhance your multi-sensory driving experience.

For more information or to register your interest, contact us today.

Bowker Blackburn BMW Trident Park, Blackburn, BB1 3NU www.bowkerblackburnbmw.co.uk 01254 274444 Fuel economy and CO 2 results for the BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport: Mpg (1/100km)(weighted combined): 3.9 to 3.6. CO 2 emissions: 0 g/km. *These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. There is a new test for fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures. Figures are for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving results, which depend on a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles, and vehicle load. All figures were determined according to a new test (WLTP). Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure.

QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE The whole team at James Alpe Ltd are incredibly proud of the people, the premises and the exceptional service they offer, writes Gail Bailey

Q

uality without compromise is the thread running through all aspects of motor vehicle repairs and conversions at James Alpe Ltd in Clitheroe: “We are a family run ‘one stop shop’ for vehicle owners, individuals or fleets and public or private sector customers. We are unique in our industry in providing a diverse range of services, saving our customers both time and money. We have a fleet of courtesy vehicles for all our customers, recovery vehicles and most importantly experienced, helpful staff that really care,” explains founder and director James Alpe.

Being involved in an accident is a distressing time but James Alpe Ltd will offer honest, trustworthy advice on the best course of action: “It is a misconception when someone is involved in an accident that they have to use an approved repairer recommended by

the insurance company,” explains James.

“This isn’t true. It is the customers car and therefore the customer’s choice who repairs their vehicle. At Alpes we are approved by 31 car manufacturers – something unsurpassed by any other bodyshops in the UK. Meaning your vehicle is repaired and returned to the

Discerning manufacturers know that high standards of workmanship will be upheld

by James Alpe Ltd because they have proved it time and time again. They are thoroughly committed to quality and attention to detail, and have teams trained specifically for different vehicles and undergo regular, rigorous audits by all the different brands and prestigious manufacturers including Land Rover, Jaguar, Mercedes, BMW, and VW Audi.

IT IS A MISCONCEPTION WHEN SOMEONE IS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT THAT THEY HAVE TO USE AN APPROVED REPAIRER RECOMMENDED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THIS ISN’T TRUE

same exacting standards as the manufacturer has built it which means your manufacturer’s body and paint work warranty is maintained.

Obviously, this also helps maintain the vehicle’s residual value.”

“We had a glowing report from our most recent BSI inspection,” comments James.

A further distinct difference when involved in an accident is that even when the customer is at fault, James Alpe Ltd will provide a comparable courtesy vehicle – something insurance companies don’t do.

It isn’t just accident repair of cars and vans that James Alpe Ltd are known for. In recent

motors years business has grown in the motorhome trade: “We are fortunate in that our premises are big enough to house motorhomes for repair and not only that, we can supply a replacement if people have a holiday planned – so no need to cancel that important break if customers have been involved in an accident. At the end of the last camping and caravanning season we had 18 motorhomes in at once!” says James.

The skillset at James Alpe Ltd means that high calibre conversions are becoming an increasing aspect of the business and there is no end to their capabilities: “We repair, refurbish, maintain and convert a broad range of specialist public sector vehicles in particular, including police vehicles, dog handling vehicles, specialist utilities vehicles and many more including our bespoke MINI conversions for Red Bull.

“Doing these MINI conversions makes a welcome change for our guys from the normal type of vehicle conversion and we absolutely love carrying out this kind of bespoke work.

“Alongside this our independent sign company, Smaldon Signs & Vehicle Graphics, complete our public sector service by carrying out all types of vehicle livery, specialising in large fleet vehicle graphics,” James explains.

In addition to this the new plastic welding division of the business includes a new state-of-the-art CNC machine, which is used particularly for converting vehicles and installing dog kennels. A number of furloughed staff were retrained in the skill of plastic welding and were able to complete a large order for the police service.

Looking after the workforce at James Alpe Ltd ensures the loyalty and commitment of

the team: “We are known for having a very low turnover of staff, with many celebrating work anniversaries of 25 and 30 years. In fact, 15 of our staff have worked here for a combined 355 years!” says James. A shared bonus incentive four times a year is an example of the commitment the company gives back to its staff.

“Pride in what we do is central to what we do,” adds James. “We regularly have workshop tours and visitors are more than welcome to come and see what happens behind the scenes at our bodyshop, conversion centre and paint shop. We are proud of our HQ and proud to show it off!” n

James Alpe Ltd Lincoln Way, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 1QD 01200 444455 info@jamesalpe.co.uk jamesalpe.co.uk

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ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Park tennis courts in Preston have officially reopened following a £243,000 renovation, managed by the LTA, and funded by the UK Government, LTA Tennis Foundation and Preston City Council.

Photography: Lisa Brown

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he Grade II* listed Moor Park sits on the outskirts of Preston city centre, retaining a Green Flag award in recognition of its heritage and maintenance. As the city’s oldest and largest parkland, Moor Park offers vast open green spaces and notable beauty spots. With so many paths and so much space, you’re free to walk, run, cycle, or even skate in the park’s

designated skatepark. Moor Park makes a fool-proof visit for sports fans and families, thanks to its wide variety of sports and recreational facilities and children’s play areas. And along with other parks in Preston, now boasts upgraded tennis courts.

The tennis courts in Moor Park, along with Haslam Park and Ashton Park, have benefited from the £243,000 investment.

Moor Park hosted a ceremony attended by the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Yakub Patel and Cabinet Member, Councillor Freddie Bailey, along with representatives from the LTA and delivery partner, We Do Tennis, on Saturday 30th September. There was an opportunity for people from the local community to pick up a racket and get on court for a range of free tennis sessions.

Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety at Preston City Council, said: “We enjoyed a fantastic event on Saturday with families playing tennis on the refurbished courts, despite the rain! We have a great partnership with the LTA, sharing an ambition to encourage

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more people to take up tennis and to be more active, all in the beautiful surroundings of our Green Flag parks. “Thanks to everyone involved in organising a successful event and to everyone who attended the tennis sessions, we hope it was enjoyed by one and all.”

WE HAVE A GREAT PARTNERSHIP WITH THE LTA, SHARING AN AMBITION TO ENCOURAGE MORE PEOPLE TO TAKE UP TENNIS AND TO BE MORE ACTIVE Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to transform eleven courts across the local area, providing a significant boost to sporting facilities. The courts have undergone extensive work to ensure viability for years to come, including resurfacing and repainting works, new fencing and nets and the introduction of gate access technology. This nationwide programme of investment is seeing thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country, providing vital opportunities for children and adults to get active.

Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts across Preston City Council officially back open to the public, and in better shape than ever.

Public tennis courts are such vital facilities for getting active and we want as many people as possible, of all ages and abilities, to pick up a racket and enjoy playing tennis. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”

This will include weekly, organised, free park tennis sessions for all ages, abilities and experience where equipment is provided, meaning that people will not need someone to play with or their own racket. Local Tennis Leagues will also provide sociable opportunities to get active through local competition. These friendly sessions are open to anyone in the area with an interest in playing tennis, whatever age or ability.

Introducing a small fee to book a court will help to build up a fund to repair courts in future years, when they will inevitably need more maintenance. Preston City Council is working with the LTA to ensure that there will be weekly free tennis sessions on courts.

This means nobody in the local community will be excluded from the chance to pick up a racket and start playing.

Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, added: “We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health.

The Government and the LTA are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment including in Preston.

These improved tennis facilities will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu.”

And there are other ways to get involved.

The LTA Free Park Tennis scheme is a volunteer-led hour of free tennis on a Saturday or Sunday 10am-11am (similar concept to Parkrun) – which would give the local community access to the tennis courts, rackets, and equipment free of charge at a peak time every week. The volunteer training is free and online, and LTA Free Park Activators

THESE IMPROVED TENNIS FACILITIES WILL PROVIDE THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WITH FUN OPPORTUNITIES TO GET ACTIVE will also receive an LTA Free Park Tennis hoodie. Using the ClubSpark system, it is possible to create a ‘concessions’ membership that those in certain groups sign up to, free of charge. These players would then be automatically given a 50 per cent discount whenever they book a court. This allows a targeted discount provision for those who really need it. n Annual Passes offer great value for players who can sign up to for court access (seven hours per week) throughout the year.

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food&drink

RAISE A GLASS… Introducing Lucela’s, a homegrown spirit that reigned supreme on the world stage recently winning glittering trophies for the brand’s premium chocolate rum. Photography: Ashley Barnard

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hen best friends Phillip Fairclough and Andrew Green translated their love of premium rum and fine chocolate into a commercially viable enterprise, little did they know that within a year of launching it would become the award-winning global product it is today.

After relentless researching and testing, they launched Lucela’s last year with 2,000 bottles of their smooth chocolate and rum spirit drink. Twelve months later, sales have rocketed and the pair are expecting exponential growth in 2023 to meet rising demand.

“It’s been a phenomenal year for us – a bit overwhelming but we are delighted!” says Ribble Valley native Phillip, who originally developed his recipe just for family and friends.

WE WANTED TO MAKE LUCELA’S TOTALLY UNIQUE – TO BE TOTALLY LUXURIOUS WITH NO COMPROMISE “I love rum and I love chocolate so I blended the two back in 2017. Whenever I went to a party the first thing people would ask is, ‘Have you brought your chocolate and rum?’ People loved it! We knew we had something special.”

Thinking of a name for their new enterprise was easy as Phil explains: “I have Italian roots – my eldest child is called Luca and my daughter’s name is Carmela

so that’s how we got Lucela’s!”

Lockdown presented a unique opportunity for the entrepreneurs, who were able to take a step back from their day jobs – Phil had a mobile pizza business and Andrew was a property developer – spending their time at home working out how they could develop Lucela’s chocolate rum into a business.

“We teamed up with a distillery in Manchester and combined our ideas with their expertise,” recalls Phil.

“We wanted to make Lucela’s totally unique – something that no-one else was doing, to be totally luxurious with no compromise.”

Phil and Andrew embarked on their quest to source the very best ingredients – the chocolate flavour developed exactly to their specification and they sourced the finest Caribbean rum: “The recipe is truly a closely guarded secret. It’s unique. The unique flavour of our rum is hand blended down to 20 per cent so that it doesn’t overpower the chocolate – we want the chocolate to sing.

“When you drink Lucela’s you get the luxurious flavour of smooth, rich chocolate and a slow warmth in the chest from the rum.”

Fast forward two years and in 2022 Lucela’s was ready to go out to market and was unveiled to the world. Attention to detail beyond the taste aesthetic, has undoubtedly contributed to Lucela’s success – it has an elegantly designed label reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.

At the World’s Drinks Awards Lucela’s recently won four glittering trophies, as a delighted Phil and Andrew recall: “We were told that judges want to see a proven track record so, as we were in our first year of trading, we entered the awards with no expectations at all – we were against all the major world manufacturers.”

Lucela’s first accolade was winning gold in the fiercely competitive liqueur category, testament to the duo’s relentless pursuit of perfection.

The second award came as Lucela’s was announced England’s Country Winner, the third came in recognition for the brand’s beautifully designed label and the crowning glory came when Lucela’s was named as the World’s Best Chocolate Liqueur after competing against more than 250 products in the liqueur category. The judges raved about the sumptuous flavour and the harmonious blend of rich, silky chocolate and premium rum – an elegant orchestra of flavours that linger on the palate.

IT’S BEEN AN AMAZING YEAR FOR US! “It was unbelievable to win!” says Phil. “It is rare for a new company to win so many awards within the first year of launching. When we were named as World’s Best, social media went wild. It’s been an amazing year for us.

“We take Lucela’s nationwide to all the big food and drink festivals throughout the country – we recently sold out within four hours at one event.

“2023 gives us the opportunity to start to focus on our wholesale proposition,” says Phil, who reveals that the duo are setting their sights on the likes of Huntley’s and Holmes Mill as their Ribble Valley targets. In terms of national targets, Andrew and Phil would love to see their brand adorning the shelves at Harrods and Selfridges.

Beyond that, the dynamic duo plan to develop other stand-alone products – they have already formulated other drinks recipes and are currently collaborating on a different project with UK- renowned third-generation chocolatiers Slattery of Manchester.

Andrew concludes: “We have deep gratitude to everyone who has supported our journey and for those yet to sample our creation, we can’t wait for you to experience what we firmly believe is the most luxurious chocolate rum in the world.” n lucelas.co.uk

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IT’S (nearly) CHRISTMAS! Before you know it, the festive season will soon be upon us.

Here are some tips to ensure your Christmas party is a fantastic one

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lready the shops are displaying their Christmas goods and although this may seem early for some, when it comes to planning a Christmas party, the early bird catches the festive worm.

To find the right venue for your event, it pays to get booking now. The first thing to decide will be how many people will attend and what type of experience will be most appropriate. There are so many options: buffet, seated meal, live music, shows, discos, dancing, karaoke… whatever your needs, you will find a venue to suit your budget, but you may need to consider further examination of each. For example, if your guests are not local to the area, would having the option of

an overnight hotel stay be crucial and could that be part of a package or block booking?

If guests are local to one area, can they easily get to and from the venue easily and at a reasonable price? If you are planning a work Christmas party, would an evening work best? Employees may be attending in their personal time so an event during office hours and away from the workplace may be

CHRISTMAS PARTIES CAN BE GREAT FOR MORALE AND AN EXCELLENT CHANCE TO BOND WITH TEAMMATES AND CELEBRATE THE YEAR’S SUCCESSES more of a treat. Christmas parties can be great for morale and an excellent chance to bond with teammates and celebrate the year’s successes. Also consider those who may prefer non-alcoholic drinks and may have dietary or mobility requirements. Getting feedback from those who will be attending to find out their preferences before you book will add to the party’s success.

Then you need to decide the dress code!

Will it be black tie? Christmas jumpers?

Informal? Will there be a gift exchange, party games, a pre party meet up? You could hold a vote for party attire, for the best/worst jumper for example, and give prizes for different categories. Will the budget allow for pre-ordered drinks at the table?

For companies that pride themselves on innovation and creativity, a themed party is an opportunity to express wider company values. Make sure you keep your guests informed of the details, so they have plenty of time to prepare and look forward to the celebration.

Once you and your guests have decided the details, the next step is to secure the event usually with a deposit. If you have booked to have food at your party, you may need guests to choose menu options in advance. The sooner you book your chosen site, the better your chances of securing your place and the longer you have to spread the word and look forward to a fantastic festive fun! n

The most The The most The most most

Wonderful time of year year time timeof time of year

JOIN IN THE FESTIVE FUN AT JOIN JOIN IN IN THE THE FESTIVE FESTIVE FUN FUN AT JOIN IN THE FESTIVE FUN AT AT

MERCURE BLACKBURN MERCURE MERCURE BLACKBURN MERCURE BLACKBURN BLACKBURN DUNKENHALGH HOTEL AND SPA DUNKENHALGH DUNKENHALGH HOTEL HOTEL AND AND SPA DUNKENHALGH HOTEL AND SPA SPA

Christmas Christmas Christmas BROCHURE BROCHURE BROCHURE OUT NOW OUT OUT NOW OUTNOW NOW

BOOK NOW FOR BOOK BOOK NOW NOW FOR BOOK NOW FOR FOR

FROM FR FO RO M M9 .9 FR4O £6 .9M .9 99

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All Inclusive All All Inclusive Inclusive All Inclusive Party nights Party Party nights Party nights nights

To book orormore more information call To To book book or more information information call call To book or more information call the events team: 01254 303417 the the events events team: team: 01254 01254 303417 303417 events team: 01254 303417 orthe email: H6617-sb@accor.com or or email: email: H6617-sb@accor.com H6617-sb@accor.com or email: H6617-sb@accor.com

PARTIES | | LUNCHES LUNCHES || CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS DAY || NYE NYE || STAYS STAYS PARTIES PARTIES | LUNCHES | CHRISTMAS DAY DAY | NYE | STAYS PARTIES | LUNCHES | CHRISTMAS DAY | NYE | STAYS Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa, Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors, Blackburn, BB5 5JP Mercure Mercure Blackburn Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Dunkenhalgh Hotel Hotel and and Spa, Spa, Blackburn Blackburn Road, Road, Clayton-le-Moors, Clayton-le-Moors, Blackburn, Blackburn, BB5 BB5 5JP 5JP Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa, Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors, Blackburn, BB5 5JP

“On cold evenings, you’ll usually find me curled up on the sofa with a Spiced G&T.” LIZ • CUCKOO GIN CUSTOMER • CHORLEY

“For extra spice, it’s great with ginger beer. I also use it as a tasty alternative to whisky in a hot toddy.”

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B RINDLEDISTILLERY.CO.U K

Soak ‘Inn’ the Christmas spirit with us...

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...a magical setting...

...a fancy drink at the bar...

...some creative and delicious food...

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...’tis the season.

www.thecartfordinn.co.uk T: 01995 670166 E: office@thecartfordinn.co.uk Cartford Lane, Little Eccleston, Lancashire, PR3 0YP

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IT’S COLD OUTSIDE, SO LET’S MAKE IT HOT AND STICKY! Over the next week or so you’ll be getting wrapped up for a spine-chilling Halloween, popping along to the local bonfire or perhaps enjoying a few fireworks in the garden

I

f you’re outdoors you’ll need some heartwarming food inside you. Here are a couple of recipes to keep you glowing in the dark!

PARKIN

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1hr 5 minutes Serves: 8-10 Simple to prepare, deliciously sticky Parkin makes a supremely satisfying snack.

Ingredients

Oil, for greasing 225g self-raising flour 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 egg, lightly beaten 115g caster sugar 60g butter 11g golden syrup 225ml milk

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 150°C/gas 2.

2. Grease a 25 x 18cm cake tin and line with greased greaseproof paper.

3. Sift the flour, ginger and bicarbonate of soda into a bowl. Stir in the egg and then the caster sugar, mixing well.

4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and the golden syrup, stirring to mix. Remove from the heat and stir in the milk.

800g canned chopped tomatoes 2 green peppers, sliced 3 green or red chillies, chopped, seeds left in if you like your chillies fiery 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tin red kidney beans, 400g 1 tsp brown sugar

To serve

5. Gradually stir the milk mixture into the flour and egg mixture. Stir until smooth, then pour into the prepared tin.

125ml soured cream 2 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped 4 tbsp cheddar cheese, grated

6. Bake for about one hour or until the mixture starts to shrink away from the sides of the tin.

Method

7. Remove from the oven and turn out onto a wire rack to cool.

8. Cut into squares and serve, preferably after about three to four days when the Parkin will have become nice and sticky.

CHILLI CON CARNE Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1hr 30 minutes Serves: 6

This classic retro dish is a great meal to enjoy around the bonfire.

Ingredients

2 large onions 700g lean stewing beef, fat removed and cut into 1-2cm cubes 5 cloves garlic, crushed

1. Heat the olive oil in a casserole, or saucepan and fry the meat until it changes colour – about five to seven minutes. Add the onion and garlic and stir for a minute or so before tipping in the tinned tomatoes, chopped chillies, peppers, and a good pinch of salt.

2. Cover the pan and simmer for about an hour, until the meat is tender and the liquid reduced to a thick sauce. If it gets too dry during cooking, pour in a little more water.

3. Add the cumin, kidney beans (and a little of the bean liquid if you like) and the brown sugar. Simmer for a further 10 mins before serving with rice, a spoonful of sour cream, grated cheddar cheese and coriander leaves as a garnish. For an added spicy kick, serve this dish with hot chilli sauce. n

Make this Christmas one to remember, here at Mytton Fold Hotel. Join us with friends and family throughout December, and enjoy our fabulous festive offerings.

FESTIVE MENU AT THE FOLD Enjoy our three-course festive menu throughout December, available Monday to Saturday.

One course £19.50 Two courses £24.00 Three courses £30.00

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Delight, with your child’s choice of magical breakfast from our festive inspired menu with breakfast juice, access to our ‘decorate your festive gingerbread’ station, along with a meet and greet with Santa himself - and a small gift.

Children’s tickets £17.95 Adults tickets £12.95

CHRISTMAS DAY AT MYTTON FOLD Dine, this Christmas Day, with a welcome drink and canapés on arrival, three-course Christmas Dinner, followed by tea, coffee and homemade sweet treats. £95.00 per person Visit us throughout December to sample our winter warmer drinks menu, festive themed Afternoon Tea, and more.

Discover all festive menus, and full details by scanning the QR code.

MYTTON FOLD HOTEL Whalley Road, Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8AB

Book your table with us today, by calling: 01254 240 662

The Fold Restaurant & Lounge Bar are open seven days a week, serving food Monday to Saturday 12:00-9:00pm, Sunday Lunch served 12:00-8:00pm

Discover Christmas at Mytton Fold:

Christmas at

The Seasonal Christmas Lunch Menu Northcote at Christmas is always a special time. If there is one time of year when you should give into temptation, it has to be Christmas.

A time to indulge in stunning food, celebrating with fine wine and a little extra “Christmas spirit”. So reserve your table for lunch and let the Northcote team spoil you!

Seasonal Dishes to Begin or Add as a Middle Course WOOD FIRED CARROTS

DOUGLAS FERN CURED SALMON

Toasted Chestnuts, Crispy Sprouts, Curd, Carrot Top Pesto

Horseradish, Pickled Lemon, Crispy Moss

PRESSED LOCAL GAME

ENGLISH ONION

Cranberry, Pumpkin Seed, Warm Toasted Brioche

“French Style”, Festive Cheese Pastry

Seasonal Main Courses RED LEG PARTRIDGE PIE

HALIBUT “VERONIQUE”

Fermented Damson, Winter Cabbage

Young Onions, Grapes, Chervil

CHRISTMAS SPICED PORK

ROASTED PUMPKIN

Treacle Belly Bacon, Parsnip, Quince

Sage, House Ricotta, Brown Butter

Seasonal Desserts BLACK FOREST GATEAU

THE NORTHCOTE CHEESEBOARD

Cherry Molasses, Sweet Crème Fraiche

Two Courtyard Cheese

LEAFY CLEMENTINE RICE PUDDING Lime, Chocolate

Available from Monday 27th November to Saturday 23rd December, served 12noon – 2pm.

The Chef ’s Table at Christmas Looking to impress? The Chef ’s Table is your perfect solution. Sophisticated festive dining in the heart of the kitchen, for up to 16 guests, available lunch and dinner. / Witness all the action in the kitchen through sliding glass doors / The Head Chef and brigade will bring you your chosen festive dishes / The Sommelier will guide you through your wine choices

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Telephone: 01254 240 555 | www.northcote.com @northcoteuk

EXPERIMENTAL CONCEPT

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Liz and I were thrilled to be invited to a new innovative and exclusive fine dining experience at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, writes Tedd Walmsley

s Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is just over an hour from the Ribble Valley, their new fine-dining concept is a ‘must’ for foodies.

We are both great fans of the food at SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and this has only been reinforced since the arrival of Ollie Bridgwater earlier in the year. In his short tenure he has retained their Michelin star and surrounded himself with an exceptional brigade of chefs including Head Chef, Jack Bond. So how does it all work? I asked Ollie to explain before lunch began.

“The idea behind our new Development Lunch is that we can be a bit more experimental, working with the freshest, seasonal ingredients available that day. The daily menu won’t be shared ahead of time, which is exciting for

diners and gives us the flexibility to try new dishes or specific ingredients.

“For diners, they get to be the first to sample new ideas and concepts fresh from the kitchen. It is an exclusive opportunity that doesn’t come along very often, so we’re hoping it will be really popular with foodies in the local area.

THE QUALITY OF THE VENISON AND THE FLAVOUR COMBINATIONS WITH BEETROOT, CABBAGE AND PEPPER, WERE SIMPLY PERFECT FOR THE ONSET OF AUTUMN “As a chef, to be able to be so creative and spontaneous is a huge bonus, plus we’ll be getting a genuine feel for the dishes that really hit the mark and look at adding them to our evening tasting menu in the coming months. The team at SOURCE and I are really looking forward to stepping out of the kitchen and meeting more of

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the diners in this relaxed, enjoyable dining experience.”

Our menu of the day was on the face of it very simply described, having only been conceived the day before. The theme reflected both the weather conditions and the available ingredients, which included end-of-season strawberries and the beginning of the bounty of autumn. The dishes of course, were far from simple and another fun element of the experience was that each course was served by the chefs themselves, giving diners a great opportunity to meet this talented group and see first-hand, their passion and enthusiasm for what had been created.

FOR DINERS, THEY GET TO BE THE FIRST TO SAMPLE NEW IDEAS AND CONCEPTS FRESH FROM THE KITCHEN Visually, the dishes were a feast for the eyes, served on the most exquisite crockery – and the tastes were sublime. The depth of flavour in the beef broth with ale pickled onions, set the bar very high indeed for the remaining five courses.

My standout dish of the day was the roast venison – the quality of the meat and the flavour combinations with beetroot, cabbage and pepper, were simply perfect for the onset of autumn. Liz declared the poached Cornish cod with the chef’s take on a delightful Waldorf salad, a triumph! The salad gave us an opportunity to discuss Gilpin’s new vertical farm, further demonstrating their drive towards sustainability. Under the guidance of owner Barney Cunliffe, the new culinary centre has been created and is committed to the procurement of the finest ingredients, limited packaging and low food miles.

Working with carefully selected suppliers to help develop a near perfect system of supply chain – this was already apparent in the quality and taste of our food.

The Development Lunch represents exceptional value at just £60 per person with a host of wine flights and by the glass options to complement the food. The exciting news is that the menu will continue to change, allowing diners to return time and time again and never to be disappointed with a fixed seasonal menu. The big advantage for non-residents is that this is a lunch option which allows time for travel and to immerse yourself fully in the fine dining experience.

A wonderful opportunity to be part of something experimental and be the first to try some new dishes.

As news of this spreads, I can only imagine demand will be high and booking essential – social media at Gilpin and the website are always up to date. As we returned home Liz and I reflected on how much we’d enjoyed

the concept, the food and the exchanges with the chefs – we hope you will to. n Development Lunches are available on specific dates and pre booking is essential, please visit the website for available dates

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Crook Road Windermere LA23 3NE 015394 88818 thegilpin.co.uk

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food&drink Ingredients:

50g dark chocolate (55% cocoa solids is fine) 85g butter 1 tbsp milk 200g self-raising flour 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 85g light muscovado sugar 50g golden caster sugar 1 egg 142ml carton soured cream

For the topping:

100g dark chocolate (as above) 100g white chocolate

Method:

Preheat the oven to fan 170˚ C/ conventional 190˚ C/gas 5 and line a muffin tin with 10 paper muffin cases. Break the chocolate into a heatproof bowl, add the butter and liquid.

Melt in the microwave on medium for 30-45 seconds (or set the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water). Stir and leave the mixture to cool.

Mix the flour, bicarbonate of soda and both sugars in a bowl. Beat the egg in another bowl and stir in the soured cream, then pour this on the flour mixture and add the cooled chocolate. Stir just to combine – don’t overmix or it will get tough.

Spoon the mixture into the muffin cases to about three quarters full. Bake for 20 minutes until well risen. Loosen the edges with a round-bladed knife, let them sit in the tins for a few minutes, then lift out and cool on a wire rack.

SPIDER WEB CHOCOLATE FUDGE MUFFINS

As it’s Halloween, here’s a recipe for you to try. You can wrap and trim muffins individually as gifts for friends and family – perfect!

For the topping, make two piping bags out of greaseproof paper (or cut the ends off two clean plastic bags). Break the dark and white chocolate into separate bowls and melt in the microwave on medium for two minutes (or over a pan as in step 1). Put two spoonful’s of dark chocolate in one bag and the same of white chocolate in the other.

Working with one muffin at a time, spread with dark chocolate from the bowl, letting it run down a bit, then pipe four concentric circles of white chocolate on top. Using a small skewer, drag through the circles at regular intervals, from the centre to the edge, to create a cobweb effect. Repeat with four more muffins. On the remaining five, spread over the white chocolate and decorate with the dark. Best eaten the day they’re made – even better while the chocolate is soft. n

Recipe courtesy of BBC Good Food

CHRISTMAS D AY with a difference...

Hang up your apron this Christmas and enjoy a delicious Christmas lunch with friends and family in our festive surroundings.

Sit back and relax as our team take care of every detail. We’ve got everything you need to make your Christmas Day a magical one.

4 COURSE CHRISTMAS LUNCH & FIZZ O N A R R I VA L

£ 125

from

*

per person

V I S I T J A M E S P L A C E S . C O M F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

TASTING IS BELIEVING One Lancaster-based business provides all the equipment required to produce the best dishes cooked to perfection.

Alma Stewart discovers more about Gastronomy Plus Ltd

F

rom a small trend-led operation to a £8m business employing 20 staff, Gastronomy Plus Ltd comprises of four trading divisions – SousVideTools, Kasai Grill, Bertha Oven and KitchenKnives.co.uk. And they have been supplying top end restaurants and private

homes with the best kitchen equipment for more than 12 years.

was born and with interest in this method growing in both restaurants and home kitchens, it wasn’t long before the seed of an idea became a fully-fledged start up.

PUTTING SOUSVIDETOOLS ON THE MAP AS A MARKET LEADER AND EXPERT IN TREND-LED PRODUCTS When an opportunity arose to buy into an emerging trend – Sous Vide (French for ‘under vacuum’, where food is placed in a pouch cooked in a water bath at a precisely regulated temperature), SousVideTools

The business took off and over time went from reseller of niche brands, to creating and selling own-brand products and putting SousVideTools on the map as a market leader and expert in trend-led products. The ability to keep a close eye on emerging trends has

food&drink

continued for the business and they have now launched a range of British made, Japanese inspired barbeques and accessories under the Kasai Grills brand and a charcoal oven under the Bertha brand.

The difference between a standard barbeque and the Kasai Konro Grill is the level of high heat. The Kasai tiles are made from a natural mineral that goes through a process called exfoliation. These special tiles reflect heat back into the grill thus making the

temperatures more consistent. Plus with sustainable, low odour and low smoke charcoal, the taste of the food is maximised. The grills have superior heat-insulation properties so that the charcoal used in them burns longer than in conventional cookers. Chefs and home cooks can spend a lot of money on high quality ingredients and want to achieve the best results from ‘on the coals’ cooking without being tainted by excess smoke and aroma, so this is a very clean way of achieving the best result using this method.

The Japanese barbeque has its roots in street food where small pieces of meat were cooked quickly and it was an increase in interest in this method of cooking that Gastronomy Plus Ltd saw a chance to create a Japanese inspired grill with a Western twist and introduced the Kasai Grill brand.

With the recent rises in gas and electricity prices, they have found that homeowners and professional kitchens are looking at this way of cooking as efficient and cost effective.

Built with sustainability in mind, the tiles are made from a natural material that can be replaced when they are blackened, and the old tiles can be ground and used by gardeners.

They are an effective soil conditioner as they can loosen compacted soil, provide drainage and hold three to four times their weight in water.

Through the coronavirus epidemic and restrictions, people had an increased appetite for alfresco dining and the charcoal cooking trend hit new levels. With sourcing products from outside the UK becoming more difficult and expensive, Gastronomy Plus Ltd looked closer to home and are delighted that the Kasai range of products are made in Britain.

And that’s not the only British-made line

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the company offer. The Bertha charcoal ovens are a game changer in professional charcoal cooking. This visionary British invention is taking the charcoal oven market by storm. It has been endorsed by Michelin star chefs and food critics alike.

The Bertha charcoal oven is suitable for restaurants, hotels and bars. Compact yet powerful, it’s revolutionising the way food is being cooked. There is no end to how versatile the Bertha is – game, burgers, fish, scallops in their shells, lobsters, vegetables, pizzas, breads, half chickens and any variety of meat cuts, especially on the bone, are cooked to perfection with a cooking time of 10 minutes and less.

Charcoal cooking is so popular that the firm offers a number of training master classes

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and even takes the company electric van on tour so you can try the delicious charcoalcooked recipes for yourself!

The variety of classes, held at the company’s Lancaster ‘Toolshed’, are delivered by Development Chef, Bruno Birkbeck, along with demonstration days. Bruno’s extensive experience includes the Gleneagles Hotel in

the coals, cooking times, temperature, and creates some of his favourite dishes so you can see how a diverse menu is possible.

He even supports a restaurant’s service once they start using their new equipment.”

As if this wasn’t enough, Gastronomy Plus Ltd also have a kitchen knives and accessories brand KitchenKnives.co.uk and have opened a new shop to complement the ecommerce store within their premises near Lancaster. They are the largest independent reseller of kitchen knives in the UK and also offer an instore and online knife sharpening service. For those who want to increase their

THIS VISIONARY BRITISH INVENTION IS TAKING THE CHARCOAL OVEN MARKET BY STORM

Perthshire and Northcote Manor in Langho, where he was later head tutor at Northcote Cookery School. Vickie Shannon, co-owner of Gastronomy Plus Ltd, said: “We are delighted that Bruno has joined us to champion charcoal cookery – he’s really passionate about it. Bruno has a wealth of knowledge. He covers every aspect – lighting

knife skills they offer a knife skills masterclass with chef Bruno. It’s designed to show you how to get the most out of your knives and which knife is needed for the job. They will have you slicing, dicing and chopping a selection of ingredients like a pro in no time. n sousvidetools.com kasaigrills.com kitchenknives.co.uk berthaoven.com

LYTHAM AND THE ARTFUL PENDULUM

Alan Veale was born in Manchester, but grew up in Lytham during the Sixties. His lifelong interest in the arts has prompted him to reflect on the changing circumstances around the Fylde Coast

L

ytham St Annes’ residents and business owners have seen fortune’s pendulum swing completely since 1973. Few would argue that an apparent discrepancy in investment exists between the opposite poles of Lytham and St Annes, where one half feels poorer than the other. Today, the complaints originate from St Annes, but fifty years ago Lytham felt neglected compared to its more glamorous neighbour around the coast. Perhaps benefiting from its proximity to Blackpool, Fylde Borough Council’s major source of revenue was from the tourism and leisure

interests of St Annes-on-the-Sea. By contrast, Lytham’s silted-up coastline was clearly a no-no for visitors. I saw all this first hand, living there in a council flat with my mum.

Lytham had been left to stagnate like its ageing population. I was only in my early twenties, seeking new adventures and challenges as an apprentice adult, but I had to get the bus to St Annes to find them.

It’s been fifty years since I found my feet as an amateur actor. I ‘trod the boards’ for the first time in 1973 at St George’s Hall, behind the United Reformed Church. The hall is still there, but the boards of the stage are long gone. I went on to perform regularly at each of the four theatres around town, but only one exists today. Curiously, that survivor was the most dilapidated of them all. So, what has happened in the meantime to put that particular theatre front and centre for a bright future?

To answer, let me first take you back to life as I saw it when the Seventies began.

My earliest wage slips came from the

Anchorage restaurant on Lytham promenade, the Clifton Arms Hotel, and the café at Fairhaven Lake. Later I would find more permanent employment with Guardian Royal Exchange Assurance (then owners of the Clifton Estate, including Lytham Hall), but I still believe the three summer seasons I spent working on St Annes Pier were responsible for shaping my interest in entertaining people. I did everything there from hiring deckchairs to watering geraniums in the Floral Hall, manning the ticket office to looking after the parrots in the miniature zoo. All gone now.

FIFTY YEARS AGO, LYTHAM FELT NEGLECTED COMPARED TO ITS MORE GLAMOROUS NEIGHBOUR At the end of the pier was a huge 667-seat theatre, known locally as The Sultan’s Palace, because of its Moorish design, complete with minarets. While working on the pier, I would sometimes get to see inside, marvelling at the intricate plasterwork and gold leaf.

Later I would perform there twice – once during a drama festival, and a year later (1974) while celebrating the centenary of the St Annes

arts&culture

capacity was ideal for plays and tight budgets.

Over seven years I would take part in more than a dozen shows there, and at least that number again elsewhere. Looking back, I must have averaged somewhere between four and five productions each year – which just goes to prove I had all three desirable qualities for acting – I was young, male, and I had a pulse.

but what were the chances of us ever hosting them on stage?

The Seventies’ arts scene in Lytham St Annes saw a legacy of neglect that threatened the demise of all our potential performance venues.

But now the pendulum has swung!

Photography: Tornadoflight/Shutterstock.com

Land and Building Company, who owned the pier and were responsible for the formation of the town itself. Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne was guest of honour! Sadly, within a month of her visit in June, the theatre was totally destroyed by fire. Within five years, the pier owners were bankrupt.

Imagine it. In 1974, all Lytham had to offer their visitor was a stroll along a promenade with the Green on one side, and muddy sea grass on the other. We had a yacht club, a closed-down restaurant and the remains of a sand pit. Our pier was demolished years ago, and now the one at St Annes was in trouble.

Who would want to be Head of Tourism in the mid-Seventies? And there would be worse to come in a little over three years. At least Lytham still had something unique to offer…

That large building at the corner of the prom and Dicconson Terrace still boasted a host of facilities. Originally built in 1862, its primary role was to provide indoor saltwater bathing, together with a growing trend in Turkish and Russian baths. It also included Assembly Rooms for the benefit of the community, plus a small theatre!

By 1974 that particular venue was looking more than a little shabby, and it held less than half the audience numbers of The Sultan’s Palace. But for the local am-drams, its reduced

But in 1980 I left the area, taking up a new position with the Civil Service in Dorset. In my absence there would be more changes to residents’ fortunes. Lytham Baths was closed, together with the theatre, and redeveloped as private apartments. Which posed a dilemma for the amateur societies. Theatres were becoming rarer than hen’s teeth. Where in Lytham or St Annes could one stage Oklahoma or West Side Story? What about dramas and comedies? The Fylde Coast had hotels for the television stars performing in Blackpool,

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SINCE THE MILLENNIUM, LYTHAM IN PARTICULAR HAS SEEN A MAJOR TRANSFORMATION IN THE PERFORMING ARTS Since the millennium, Lytham in particular has seen a major transformation in the performing arts. Stately Lytham Hall now regularly hosts outdoor performances, and who hasn’t heard of Lytham Festival? As for the one remaining theatre, there are some new and very exciting developments in progress.

With Christmas on the horizon and rehearsals for pantomime in full swing, I’ll look at those brightening prospects in the second part of this article, next time. n

amounderness.co.uk

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A TIME & PLACE… Duncan Palmar

The holidays may be over and the nights are drawing in, but Longridge Gallery doesn’t think that should be the end of your travels

A

rt has an incredible way of transporting us to either a time or a place. Whether the memory of a place we have visited in the past or somewhere on the bucket list, a quick glance can be all it takes.

Bruno Tinucci, described as ‘the artistic voice of Tuscany’, draws his inspiration from the stunning scenery of his native land and employs a distinctive palette of vibrant colours to interpret both the appearance and the atmosphere of this most beautiful of landscapes. He has a unique ability to capture the eye-catching scarlet of a field of poppies, the golden shades of a sunflower,

or the changing light of the seasons in his striking impressionistic oil paintings.

Andrei Protsouk’s elaborate pieces burst with vibrant colours, intricate shapes and varied texture. His use of constructive line demonstrates his innate creative ability and understanding of the human form. Here you can almost hear the sounds of the gondolas.

ART HAS AN INCREDIBLE WAY OF TRANSPORTING US TO EITHER A TIME OR A PLACE Colin Brown paints in a free and loose style with only one subject matter, being street scenes of the world. He likes to evoke a sense of atmosphere and the feeling of being there, which he really captures in the scene of Havana.

Duncan Palmar brings things closer to home with his ability to capture texture, light and atmosphere with seeming

Bruno Tinucci

effortlessness. His ‘Lake District Farmhouse’ has already drawn discussion on which of the Wainwrights it is.

Where does your art take you? n

To view these, or any of our other pieces, come and see us in the gallery, or visit our website and social media platforms.

Longridge Gallery 78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3WH 01772 782006 info@longridgegallery.co.uk longridgegallery.co.uk /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery @longridgegall

Andrei Protsouk

Colin Brown

Fast track your move this Christmas

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03/10/2023 16:08

Links Gate, Thornton Cleveleys Offers Over £1,595,000

One of Thornton’s most prestigious addresses, this spectacular property is ready for a purchaser to display their own tastes and specifications.

Goosnargh, Preston Offers Over £900,000

A beautiful Grade II listed home steeped in history, exuding character and offering spacious family accommodation.

Set in 6 acres of phenomenal gardens this charming detached property offers well proportioned reception rooms and a dining kitchen carefully planned by the former vendor, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

This is a home to dream of! Set in spectacular grounds of 1.5 acres OTA with tennis court, this 4 bedroom property includes flexible spaces and a number of useful outbuildings. It lies just outside the popular village of Goosnargh.

Bilsborrow, Preston Asking Price £1,450,000

A truly remarkable barn conversion – designed, planned and finished for the current vendors to an exceptional standard.

Fulwood, Preston Prices range from £700,000 to £775,00

An exclusive gated development boasting four executive detached homes, tucked away at the end of a private lane yet superbly located for access to major road networks.

Generously offering a showstopping living kitchen, stunning lounge, further office, stunning games room, snug and gym along with a sumptuous principal bedroom suite, four further bedrooms and four further bathrooms – within impressive grounds and 2 acres (OTA) to the rear.

Each contemporary 5 bedroom home is crafted by a boutique developer, with meticulous attention to detail and the finest craftmanship to include German kitchen and flexible living spaces.

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entertainment

ON SCREEN

Check out the latest film releases coming soon to The Flower Bowl in Preston. For more information visit: theflowerbowl.uk

FOE

Release Date: 20th October Director: Garth Davis Starring: Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal Certificate: TBC It was only a matter of time before the Oscar-nominated Irish duo Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal teamed up together on the big screen. This science fiction psychological thriller promises to showcase their talents to maximum effect. Set in the future in 2065, Foe follows a married couple called Junior (Mescal) and Henrietta (Ronan) who live an isolated existence, on a farm in rural America. Their world is turned upside down when a mysterious stranger named Terrance arrives at their door with a startling proposal. We can’t wait to watch one of 2023’s most anticipated flicks. n

THE GREAT ESCAPER

Release Date: 6th October Director: Oliver Parker Starring: Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson Certificate: 12A The Great Escaper follows the adventures of D-Day veteran, former Royal Navy Lieutenant Bernard Jordan (Caine), who in 2014 sneaked out of his East Sussex care home to travel to Normandy to pay his respects on the 70th anniversary of the D-Day Landings. He told his carers he was “popping to the shops” but instead walked to Brighton railway station, travelled to Portsmouth and bought a one-way ferry ticket to Caen, sparking a police search for him. This heart-warming film shines with the wonderful chemistry between Caine and the late Glenda Jackson in her last ever role. n

THE MARVELS

Release Date: 10th November Director: Nia DaCosta Starring: Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris and Iman Vellani Certificate: TBC The Marvels, previously known as Captain Marvel 2, will bring some of the most powerful female superheroes in the Marvel universe together this November, as part of Phase 5 of the MCU. Brie Larson returns as Carol Danvers, and meets up with Iman Vellani and Teyonah Parris as Kamala Khan and Monica Rambeau. Together, this unlikely trio must team-up and learn to work together to save the universe. Samuel L Jackson also appears as original Avengers assembler and former Director of SHIELD, Nick Fury.

Bring on the action. n

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT: THE MUSICAL Release Date: 19th October Director: Scott Schwartz and Brett Sullivan Starring: Luke Brady, Liam Tamne and Christine Allado Certificate: TBC

This spectacular musical is based on DreamWorks Animation’s 1998 film adapted from the biblical story of Moses, from being a prince of Egypt to his ultimate destiny of leading the Children of Israel out of Egypt. It features Stephen Schwartz’s “miraculous music” (Time Out) – including his Academy Award-winning song ‘When You Believe’. Filmed live at the Dominion Theatre in London, this incredible stage show comes to cinemas for the first time. n

FINE PAINTINGS | SCULPTURES | WORKS ON PAPER Carnes Fine Art is an independent art gallery specialising in original paintings and sculptures.

Our gallery is located at Cedar Farm in the rural beautiful setting of Mawdesley, Lancashire.

Carl Longworth – Limited Edition Bronze King Fisher II £2,950

Sir Peter Scott – Original Painting Snow Geese £3,850

Jacqueline Stanhope – Original Oil Painting Three Foals £2,750

Harry Brioche – Original Oil Painting Clearing Mist £950

Carl Longworth – Limited Edition Bronze Blue Tit £1,900

Amanda Jackson – Original Oil Painting The Fairy Swing £865

Carnes Fine Art are delighted to offer a brand-new Autumn collection of original oil paintings and bronze sculptures by UK leading artists Harry Brioche, Jacqueline Stanhope, Amanda Jackson & Carl Longworth. To see more of these artists works, please refer to our website or call into the gallery where a warm welcome awaits!

Carnes Fine Art are proud to be representing some of the UK’s leading artists with more original artworks available in our gallery.

Carnes Fine Art, Cedar Farm, Back Lane, Mawdesley, Lancashire L40 3SY Gallery opening times Tues – Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm www.carnesfineart.com | info@carnesfineart.com | 01704 822533

Discover the new Cayenne at Porsche Centre Preston.

BOOK A TEST DRIVE IN THE NEW CAYENNE. The new Cayenne has arrived, stylishly refreshed with a new look and some comprehensive upgrades. Not least is the ground-breaking internal technology featuring a 12.6-inch curved instrument display for the driver, and an optional 10.9-inch passenger display that can even stream videos. To experience all this, and the new driving dynamics, book your test drive* today at Porsche Centre Preston. *Test drives are subject to applicant status and availability.

Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane, Preston Lancashire, PR2 1QJ 01772 911 911 info@porschepreston.co.uk www.porschepreston.co.uk

Porsche Cayenne models official WLTP combined fuel consumption: 21.1 – 26.2 mpg, WLTP combined CO₂ emissions: 304 – 246 g/km.