Live Preston & Fylde Issue 133 Mid May - Mid July 2026 by Live_Magazines

Discover Charlotte. A timeless classic, reimagined with Italian flair.

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The elegant open base brings the beauty of design to the fore and gives the sofa lightness and airiness. It also makes cleaning definitely easier.

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12 PEOPLE SHAPING PRESTON

From community champions to cultural leaders, we discover the people redefining what it means to live, create and connect in Preston in 2026. These are the people leaving their mark on Preston’s cultural identity - rooted in history but firmly looking forward. Their stories reflect a city proud of where it’s come from - and excited about where it’s heading.

PAT, CHAT AND THE POWER OF HORSES

Away from rosettes and riding boots, something quietly powerful is happening at Wrea Green Equitation Centre. Through her ‘Pat and Chat’ sessions, Preston-based community-builder Ikram Alchane is creating a welcoming space where women, many new to horses, can find connection, calm and a sense of belonging.

124

NEW ERA FOR CRICKET

As the new season unfolds, Lancashire Cricket Club has plenty to celebratestrong performances across its teams, a thriving academy and the unveiling of its new Farington stadium, a landmark second home that signals the club’s evolving future.

140

MONET MASTERPIECE VISITS BLACKPOOL

A rare Monet masterpiece is currently on show in Blackpool as part of The National Gallery Masterpiece Tour 2025–2027, in a landmark cultural moment.

LIVE MAGAZINES

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Editor: Ali Gudgeon

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Photography: Peter Austin, Jo Denison, Robin Lyndon, Kirsten Platt and Michael Porter

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Magazines

As the days stretch a little longer and the air feels lighter, there’s a familiar sense of optimism settling over Preston and the Fylde Coast. Warmer weather has a way of pulling us outdoors - into parks and high streets, onto sports fields and seaside promenades - and this season feels like an invitation to reconnect with the places and people that make living here so special.

In this issue, that spirit of connection runs through every page. We begin by celebrating the individuals helping to shape Preston’s future. Our cover story, People Shaping Preston shines a spotlight on community champions, creatives and cultural leaders whose work is redefining what it means to live and thrive here in 2026. Rooted in history but looking firmly forward, their stories tell of a city proud of its past and confident in where it’s heading.

Elsewhere, we find inspiration in unexpected places. At Wrea Green Equitation Centre, something quietly transformative is taking place. In Pat, Chat and the Power of Horses, we meet Ikram Alchane and explore how her gentle, inclusive sessions are creating space for women to slow down, connect and find calmsometimes with the softest nudge from a four-legged friend.

Sport and culture also take centre stage this issue. As summer approaches, cricket fans have plenty to cheer with Lancashire Cricket Club entering an exciting new chapter. Our feature explores a season of strong performances, a flourishing academy and the unveiling of the club’s new Farington stadium - a bold statement of intent for the future.

And finally, a truly special cultural moment: a rare Monet masterpiece has arrived in Blackpool. We delve into the significance of the National Gallery Masterpiece Tour bringing this extraordinary work to Grundy Art Gallery - placing our coastline firmly on the national cultural map.

Wherever the warmer days take you, I hope this issue inspires you to explore, engage and enjoy everything our region has to offer.

Happy reading!

Ali Gudgeon Editor

17th -20th August | Ages 8-16 years | £50 per day

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PEOPLE SHAPING PRESTON

From community champions to cultural leaders, Ali Gudgeon discovers the people redefining what it means to live, create and connect in Preston in 2026

Something is shifting in Preston as a new wave of local changemakers is redefining what city life looks like here. These are the people leaving their mark on Preston’s cultural identity – rooted in history but firmly looking forward. Their stories reflect a city proud of where it’s come from –and excited about where it’s heading.

Annie Wynn BEM – Growing civic pride from the ground up

Few people capture Preston’s community spirit quite like Annie Wynn, founder of charity, Let’s Grow Preston. Through her work transforming overlooked and underused green spaces into thriving community gardens, Annie has created places where connection, confidence and wellbeing can grow side by side. Let’s Grow Preston focuses on improving physical and mental health, social connection and local food

resilience through gardening, growing food and caring for green spaces across the city. Annie’s impact was recognised with both Environmental Hero of the Year and the overall Proud Preston Award, but her influence goes far beyond accolades. By bringing people together to care for shared spaces, Annie has helped foster pride, belonging and resilience across the city – proving that meaningful change often starts at ground level.

Photography: Michael Porter

Grace Gudgeon and her childhood best friend Alex Judge are reshaping how women connect in Preston. Their initiative, Girls Who Walk Preston, began as a simple walking group but has grown into a powerful community movement. Offering a safe, welcoming space for women and non binary people to meet, talk and build confidence, the group addresses a real need for connection in modern city life.

Alongside full time work and study, their achievements so far are admirable, with Grace recognised as both Inspirational Young Leader and Volunteer of the Year at the inaugural Proud Preston awards, held earlier this year. Both Grace and Alex’s hard work highlights how grassroots action can tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and create lasting social bonds – one walk at a time.

Named Arts and Culture Hero of the Year at the Proud Preston awards, theatre practitioner Andrew Sumner stands at the heart of Preston’s creative sector. Andrew has built a career combining professional theatre practice with education, outreach and skills development, particularly for young people and schools. As the founder, managing director and artistic director of Initiate Theatre Ltd, a Preston‑based theatre company, Andrew is a passionate advocate for arts education

and continues to challenge the ongoing lack of funding while delivering meaningful work on the ground. Through teaching, mentoring and performance, he helps young creatives find their voices and build confidence. His career reflects a belief that creativity should be accessible to everyone –and that culture survives not just through funding, but through dedicated people willing to invest time, energy and belief in the next generation.

Mel Close is reshaping Preston’s cultural landscape through her commitment to accessibility, visibility and inclusion. She is Chief Executive of Disability Equality (NW) Ltd, a former Brookfield Ward Councillor and, for the past two years, the city’s Armed Forces Champion. A passionate advocate for intersectional equity, Mel spearheaded the 2025 Disability Equality Community Hub, helped organise Disability Pride and consistently amplifies marginalised voices through inclusive, values‑driven leadership.

She regularly challenges organisations at the highest levels to ensure disabled people, local residents and veterans are heard. Awarded the Proud Preston Inclusive Leadership Award for her 25 years of work, Mel has created platforms celebrating disabled voices through creativity, storytelling and shared experience, setting a new standard for how Preston’s organisations, spaces and services reflect their communities.

Photography: Michael Porter

Mel Close – A voice for inclusion and representation

Grace Gudgeon and Alex Judge – Young community leaders

Andrew Sumner – Advocating for the Arts

In a city rich with creativity but historically short on visibility, Rory Cocker has quietly changed the game. As the founder of Preston Pulse, a video‑first social media platform, Rory has become one of the most influential cultural amplifiers currently working in Preston. Launching in early 2024 on Instagram and TikTok, Preston Pulse celebrates Preston’s live music, creative culture, arts, heritage and events. Within just one month, Rory’s work amassed

2,500+ followers and over 110,000 video views, building to an impressive 1 million monthly video views and 40,000 followers by 2026. His content has spotlighted local landmarks – from Avenham & Miller Parks to indie venues – and brought vital cultural happenings into public view. Recent recognition came through the Preston BID’s Special Projects Fund, which awarded Preston Pulse support for its role in raising the city’s cultural and creative profile.

Known online as Murphy’s Sketches, illustrator and author Kerri Cunningham has built an international following through her distinctive visual style and emotionally resonant storytelling. Her recent poetry collection ‘All of My Days’ further blurs the lines between illustration and written word, offering deeply personal reflections that resonate far beyond the city. She also recently launched her parenting podcast, ‘A Moment

with Murphy’, which combines her poetry with heartfelt conversations. While her work reaches audiences across the world, Kerri remains firmly rooted in Preston’s creative community, drawing inspiration from everyday life and shared experience. She represents a new generation of digital‑ first creatives – artists who prove that meaningful, globally recognised work can be made while staying connected to place.

After tragically losing his brother Jon Jo to knife crime in 2014, Byron Highton founded The JJ Effect, a charity delivering powerful anti knife crime presentations across the UK and tirelessly supporting Preston families during the holidays. The JJ Effect works with organisations across the North West and has now reached over 600,000 young people, educating about the dangers of knife crime, county lines, grooming and criminal exploitation. They have helped to remove

over 2,000 knives and weapons from the streets of Preston and the surrounding areas. Every Christmas, Byron and Mikey McGuinness raise funds and deliver gifts on Christmas Day to families in need and to children fighting illnesses like cancer. His nomination for Charity Hero of the Year at the 2026 Proud Preston Awards highlights both his community devotion and his determination to prevent violence through education and compassion.

One of the most significant shifts in Preston’s social landscape is being driven by Gemma Roberts, CEO of Hope Prevails Preston (formerly Preston Domestic Violence Services). A survivor‑centred leader and committed VAWG activist, Gemma has strengthened and expanded domestic abuse support at a time when demand across the city is critically high. Under her leadership, services have grown in reach and collaboration,

placing survivors’ voices at the heart of decision‑making. Recognised as Charity Hero of the Year at the Proud Preston Awards, she is also helping shape Preston’s new flagship women’s support centre on Guildhall Street – and is rolling out a free to access self defence and self confidence programme for women and girls across Preston, South Ribble and Chorley.

Taken together, these stories reveal a Preston that is thriving not because of grand projects alone, but because of the people who bring vision, dedication, warmth and imagination to the city every day. And as these voices continue to rise, Preston’s identity grows richer – rooted in its past yet boldly shaping its future. n

Gemma Roberts – Transforming domestic abuse support in Preston

Byron Highton – Turning personal loss into community advocacy

Kerri Cunningham – Preston’s illustrator with global reach

Rory Cocker – Giving Preston its digital cultural voice

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UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL OF ANY LAWN

With expert lawn and surface care by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston of GreenThumb, your garden will always look its best

Gardens have become an essential extension of the home, places to relax, entertain and invest in.

Nearly half of UK homeowners have put money into improving their outdoor spaces in recent years, with average spending reaching more than £2,000. Clear evidence that lawns and gardens are now both lifestyle assets and valuable financial investments.

Although grass is the most common and diverse plant on the planet, maintaining a lush, healthy lawn is not as easy as it appears. Issues like weeds, moss, disease and grub damage often catch new homeowners off guard, making expert support invaluable.

That is where GreenThumb comes in. Locally managed by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston, GreenThumb helps homeowners achieve the very best results from their lawns. Whether someone is new to garden care or simply seeking professional outcomes, GreenThumb’s tailored treatments and proven expertise make all the difference.

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GreenThumb is the UK’s leading lawn care provider and the local branch, managed by Stephen Graham and Phil Alston since 2025, work closely with Tyler Stevenson of GreenThumb Blackburn, one of the longestrunning in the network. The Blackburn team has recently renewed its full franchise licence – an achievement that reflects consistent results and a strong commitment to quality service.

LOCAL ROOTS: COMMUNITY FOCUS

Although GreenThumb is a national brand, each branch is independently owned and operated. Stephen and Phil take great pride in giving back to the local community,

supporting and sponsoring groups like Knott End Bloomers’ Jubilee Gardens, Great Eccleston in Bloom and Midnight Motorsports’ Tractor Pulling Team. They have sponsored a match at Preston North End, as well as a number of grass roots clubs and junior teams across Lancashire.

This community investment is just one of the ways the team strengthens the places they call home.

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Contact GreenThumb today to start the journey toward a dream garden – from lush, healthy grass to spotless patios and weed-free paths. n

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COOL COMFORT, ALL NIGHT LONG

A DECADE OF TRANSFORMATION

In what is a landmark year, Canterbury Fireplaces continues to evolve with cutting edge media wall technology and one of the most prestigious fire and stove showrooms across the region

It has been a landmark year for Canterbury Fireplaces as owner Lucas Everett marks a decade since taking over the business from his parents Steve and Jackie, who first opened the doors back in 1988. Over those 10 years the company has grown beyond all recognition, building on its strong family foundations to become one of the North West’s

leading fireplace destinations.

The showroom itself, which has just undergone a £150,000 transformation, spans more than 4,000 square feet across two floors and features over 150 displays that showcase everything from traditional surrounds to cutting edge contemporary installations. What began as a small family company has

steadily expanded, with significant growth over the past eight years in particular, firmly placing Canterbury among the largest and most respected fireplace showrooms in the UK.

While the business continues to stock world leading brands from across Scandinavia and Europe, including premium wood burners and gas fires, the biggest shift in recent years has been the rise of electric fires and media walls. This trend has become central to Canterbury’s offering, driven by advances in technology and changing customer tastes.

“Over the last 10 years media walls have changed beyond all recognition,” Lucas explains. “It now forms a massive part of our business.”

Today’s media walls go far beyond a simple chimney breast feature. Customers are increasingly opting for full wall designs that integrate televisions, sound systems and bespoke cabinetry, all centred around ultra realistic electric fires. The latest hologram technology from Solus ix has been a game changer, delivering flames that are indistinguishable from the real thing.

“The latest hologram technology is quite simply amazing,” says Lucas. “You just cannot tell it’s an electric fire. The flames look so real they wrap around the logs.”

CUSTOMERS ARE INCREASINGLY OPTING FOR FULL WALL DESIGNS THAT INTEGRATE TELEVISIONS, SOUND SYSTEMS AND BESPOKE CABINETRY, ALL CENTRED AROUND ULTRA REALISTIC ELECTRIC FIRES

These installations are fully customisable and often include cabinetry finished in heritage colours, subtle LED lighting and app controlled systems that allow homeowners to tailor both heat and ambience.

Canterbury offers a complete turnkey service, bringing together skilled plasterers, joiners and electricians alongside the in-house expertise of Lucas and his experienced team.

This holistic approach has always been at the heart of the business. Lucas understands that fireplaces are more than just functional features. They are the focal point of family living spaces, meaning every installation must balance design, practicality and personal taste.

Customers are encouraged to begin their journey online through the newly redesigned website, where they can explore a wide range of installations and submit details for a consultation. By sharing photos and ideas, clients can work closely with Lucas and his

Photography:

Kirsten

Platt

team from concept through to completion, ensuring a seamless process.

Alongside the growth in media walls, Canterbury continues to offer an extensive selection of gas fires, wood burning stoves and gas stoves, all with modern eco design and clean burn credentials. The showroom features premium names known for craftsmanship and innovation while an exciting high-end Italian stove, currently being installed in a customer’s home is designed to deliver serious visual impact.

THE LATEST HOLOGRAM TECHNOLOGY FROM SOLUS IX HAS BEEN A GAME CHANGER, DELIVERING FLAMES THAT ARE INDISTINGUISHABLE FROM THE REAL THING

The company’s reputation has also led to collaborations with architects and interior designers on a number of bespoke projects, as well as installations for high profile clients including a Blackburn Rovers footballer and a Ribble Valley-based beauty influencer.

Despite its growth, Canterbury Fireplaces remains deeply rooted in the local community. The team has long supported charitable causes and this year has chosen East Lancashire Hospice as its dedicated charity. With a series of fundraising events planned, the decision reflects a shared connection among staff who have all been touched by the hospice’s work in some way.

As Canterbury Fireplaces celebrates 10 years under Lucas’s leadership, the business stands as a blend of tradition and

REFINED ELEGANCE

Canterbury Fireplaces has recently created two striking features in two Ribble Valley properties.

Dr Natalie Haworth, founder of The Doctor & Company chose a Tavira Iberian limestone surround from the Pennman Collection, with matching hearth and slip set, paired with a Riva 500 Slimline HL by Stovax & Gazco and a dedicated flue system. The fireplace sits effortlessly within the room, bringing warmth and a natural sense of presence.

Blackburn Rovers footballer Scott Wharton’s home now features a Purevision 5 multi-fuel stove with short stand, set in a 57” Aegean limestone surround and slip set, with an iced grey herringbone tiled chamber, riven slate hearth and twin wall flue.

In both homes, the fireplaces look and feel refined, welcoming and perfectly in keeping with each space.

innovation. From classic fires and stoves to state-of-the-art media walls, it continues to evolve while staying true to its original ethos of quality, expertise and unrivalled customer care. n

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Canterbury Street Blackburn BB2 2HP 01254 682574

info@canterburyfireplaces.com canterburyfireplaces.com

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Designed for Living.

Create a kitchen designed around the way you live. From your first consultation to final installation, Kutchenhaus delivers a seamless, personal service that transforms ideas into beautifully functional spaces. Explore an extensive range of styles, finishes and layouts, all crafted with precision German engineering and built to last. Their expert designers listen carefully, using advanced visual technology to bring your vision to life before work begins. With fully interactive showrooms, tailored storage solutions and a dedicated white-glove approach, every detail is considered — from lighting and worktops to practical flow. Backed by industry expertise and fast lead times, Kutchenhaus offers more than kitchens; they create inspiring spaces for cooking, gathering and making memories, designed perfectly for your home and lifestyle.

• Bespoke kitchen design tailored to lifestyle and space

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THE DELICIOUS TASTE OF SUMMER

Outdoor cooking has come a long way from a simple barbecue at the bottom of the garden, writes Katie Hammond

Today, barbecuing is all about creating a space to cook, entertain and unwind – and a new range is catering for that growing appetite for al fresco living.

The Grill Guru range has landed at Dawsons Department Store in Clitheroe, both in-store and online via BBQ World. com, bringing with it a carefully curated collection of barbecues and outdoor cooking equipment designed to combine quality craftsmanship with absolute affordability.

For Ian Hodgett, Garden Furniture and BBQ Specialist at Dawsons and BBQ World (now the UK’s largest online barbecue retailer) the appeal lies in that balance: “We’re always

keen to be on board with brands from the start,” he explains. “With Grill Guru, we are one of the first retailers to bring it to market. It’s about trusting the product and making sure we’re offering something that genuinely works for our customers – great quality, but at the right price.”

The Grill Guru range covers all bases, from three, four and six-burner gas barbecues through to a high-performance pizza oven and the increasingly popular plancha griddle. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for anyone looking to build or upgrade their outdoor cooking set-up, whether they’re a casual weekend griller or a more adventurous home chef.

That versatility reflects a wider shift in how outdoor spaces are used. Tom Lavelle, Grill Guru’s UK Account Manager, explains: “Since the pandemic, people have started to see their gardens as an extra room – it’s somewhere to cook, to host and to spend quality time together.”

One of the standout products in the range is the plancha, a flat-top griddle that has surged in popularity in recent years.

Grill Guru’s model is built from what Tom describes as ‘indestructible materials’, offering durability and performance which far rivals more expensive alternatives.

WE’RE ENTHUSIASTS OURSELVES. THAT MEANS WE CAN GUIDE CUSTOMERS TO THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR THEM

Tom continues: “The plancha has quickly become a favourite. You can cook pretty much anything on it – smashed burgers, breakfasts, pancakes and even stir fries.”

For those looking to experiment further, the pizza oven offers another dimension. Reaching temperatures of over 400 degrees, it allows for everything from crisp, authentic pizzas to perfectly seared meats – bringing restaurant-style cooking into the outdoor living space.

Ian adds: “We don’t just sell barbecues –we’re enthusiasts ourselves. That means we can guide customers to the right choice for them, whether they’re starting from scratch or adding to what they already have.”

With the full Grill Guru range now available online and on in-store display at Dawsons, it offers a compelling blend of innovation, practicality and value. And as outdoor cooking continues to evolve, it’s clear that for many, the barbecue is no longer just a summer staple – it’s a way of life. n

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DESIGNING OUTDOOR LIVING WITH PURPOSE

As the Ribble Valley shakes off winter and the first warmth returns to the soil, gardens begin to demand attention again –not just maintenance but imagination too

At Bannister Hall Landscape Supplies & Plant Nurseries in Higher Walton, spring is less about selling plants and more about shaping spaces. It’s the moment where homeowners stop asking, ‘What should we plant?’ and start asking, ‘How do we want to live?’

Because modern landscaping is no longer simply horticulture. It is design, structure, architecture and atmosphere.

DESIGNING BEFORE DIGGING

One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the move toward 3D CGI garden design. Much like interior architecture, outdoor spaces are now being digitally visualised before a single slab is laid.

Clients can see porcelain terraces, pergolas, planting schemes and lighting effects in realistic detail – long before installation begins.

WE ARE NOW SEEING CLIENTS TREAT GARDENS AS FULLY DESIGNED LIVING ENVIRONMENTS - SPACES TO HOST, RELAX AND ADD LONG-TERM VALUE

Jon Carlyle Hollywood LLB (Hons), CEO of Bannister Hall Ltd, explains: “A garden should be designed with the same intent as a kitchen or living space. We offer a true one-stop shop – from 3D CGI design through to paving, decking and plant selection – so clients can visualise the complete journey

before we even break ground.”

The result? Fewer compromises, smarter material choices and outdoor spaces that feel curated rather than assembled.

HEDGING: STRUCTURE, PRIVACY, PERMANENCE

If recent years celebrated open-plan gardens, this season is all about structure. Instant hedging and mature screening trees are seeing a surge in demand across the Ribble Valley. Homeowners want privacy – but they want it now, not in five years’ time.

Portuguese Laurel, Photinia ‘Red Robin’, Yew and Hornbeam remain firm favourites.

Pleached trees, with their elevated framed canopies, are particularly popular in contemporary schemes, creating elegant green walls that soften architecture without overpowering it.

With over 40,000 trees, hedges and shrubs across three nurseries, Bannister Hall holds one of the largest private plant stocks in Lancashire. Clients can physically walk through mature specimens and select exact shapes and sizes, rather than ordering unseen.

Gardens are no longer an afterthought. They are becoming an extension of the home’s value – financially and emotionally.

SPRING ARRIVALS FROM ITALY

This spring also sees new architectural specimens arriving from specialist growers in northern Italy.

Mature olive trees – some with beautifully gnarled trunks – are being integrated into contemporary Lancashire gardens with striking effect. Hardy, characterful and sculptural, they provide instant Mediterranean elegance when paired with porcelain paving and soft ornamental grasses.

create clean sight lines and help gardens feel expansive.

Composite decking, aluminium pergolas and integrated LED lighting are increasingly specified at design stage rather than added later as upgrades.

Spring is prime planting season. Soil temperatures are rising, root establishment is strong, and thoughtful planting now ensures a layered, evolving garden through summer and beyond.

But design must lead planting – not the other way around.

Columnar Italian Cypress and structured evergreen topiary add vertical drama and year-round form, bringing European refinement to Ribble Valley landscapes. The appeal lies in contrast with structured Mediterranean specimens framed by the rolling backdrop of Lancashire countryside.

MATERIALS THAT ELEVATE THE SPACE

Porcelain paving continues to dominate high-end landscaping. Valued for its low maintenance, slip resistance and refined aesthetic, large-format slabs in warm

integration with a design studio, hard landscaping materials, architectural timber, mature plant stock and specialist imports –all in one location.

THE RISE OF THE OUTDOOR ROOM

Across the Ribble Valley, there is growing appetite for outdoor kitchens, structured seating zones and defined entertaining areas. The garden is no longer viewed as seasonal, it is an extension of lifestyle.

A GARDEN SHOULD BE DESIGNED WITH THE SAME INTENT AS A KITCHEN OR LIVING SPACE

As Jon concludes: “People invest heavily in their interiors but historically underinvested outside. We are now seeing clients treat gardens as fully designed living environments – spaces to host, relax and add long-term property value. The detail matters.”

For over 25 years, Bannister Hall has supplied award-winning landscapers, developers and discerning private clients across Lancashire. What sets it apart is

Because a beautiful garden is not created by chance. It is designed. n

Bannister Hall Ltd

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

sales@bannisterhall.co.uk bannisterhall.com

Business Hours

Open Monday – Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm with free on-site parking everythingplants.co.uk

neutral tones,

As spring takes hold across the Ribble Valley, the message is simple: design first, plant with intent and build with permanence in mind.

ANYONE CAN PAINT BUT NOT LIKE ME!

James Lawrence Isherwood 1917-1989.

The private family collection of the artist’s late partner, Pat White

The late Wigan artist James Lawrence Isherwood rose from humble roots to become one of the North’s best known artists and was the subject of a BBC documentary ‘I am Isherwood’ in 1974 and collected by the likes of the now King Charles. This year sees an incredible single collection of over 100 works come to market for the very first time almost 40 years after his death in 1989.

This unrivalled collection comes from the family of Isherwood’s former partner, Pat White, who enjoyed a relationship with the artist during the latter half of the 1970s. Following the loss of his beloved mother Lily in 1971, Isherwood began a relationship with Pat having met her at the opening of his exhibition in Hoylake in 1975. Pat went on to be instrumental in his life at this time, travelling with him to her home in Malta and to Spain, broadening the artist’s horizons internationally.

Although Isherwood had exhibited alongside the likes of L S Lowry in the 1950s and enjoyed recognition throughout the 1960s, exhibiting at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, he had led a relatively frugal lifestyle to this point. He regularly bartered his paintings for life’s

basics and was well known around Wigan with every shopkeeper seemingly having a collection of Isherwood paintings taken in lieu of payment against goods. From 1976 however when he had a relationship with Pat, he was afforded the luxury of travel and was even able to

upgrade his paintings from hardboard which had been his canvas of choice, to actual artist’s canvases and boards.

The subject matter of his paintings from this period also reflected his new lifestyle, often now depicting his overseas trips rather than just the industrial North and even figurative works featuring Pat herself.

The collection of paintings which have been held in the White family ever since, feature works dating back to as early as 1951. Featuring well known Wigan scenes, Lancashire landscapes and miners, the scope also spans to figurative works and Maltese seascapes. A truly diverse selection spanning three decades.

To see over a 100 of these incredible works of art visit the Hepplestone Fine Art Gallery, Heskin. n

HESKIN EXHIBITION OPENS

Sunday 10th May

Until Sunday 31st May 2026

Hepplestone Fine Art Limited, Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley PR7 5PA. 01257 451121. sales@hepplestonefineart.com hepplestonefineart.com

LUTRON’S PALLADIOM WIRE-FREE SHADING SYSTEM

The intelligent system delivering the ultimate in design freedom – a stunning blend of beauty, flexibility and performance without sacrifice.

These blinds are intended to be installed without a pocket, fascia or top treatment.

Powered by no more than six, off the shelf D-cell batteries integrated into the blind itself, we can achieve 3-5 years battery life.

Simplicity without the need for wires.

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.

Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB

01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

from timeless classics to bold contemporary patterns, can now move seamlessly between interior and exterior living spaces. Whether placed on a terrace, balcony or garden seating area, Ecorugs introduce warmth and softness to surfaces such as stone, porcelain tiles or wooden decking, helping outdoor areas feel like a natural extension of the home.

Crucially, practicality remains central to the collection’s appeal. Because Ecorugs are machine washable, they are easy to maintain even when exposed to the elements. Dirt, dust and everyday marks can simply be washed away, allowing the rugs to retain their appearance season after season.

ELEGANCE MADE EASY

These beautiful rugs that can be used indoors or outdoors, are perfect for busy households that care for the planet

When Louis De Poortere first introduced its Ecorugs collection, the ambition was clear – to move towards a more sustainable approach to rug design. By shifting to a 100 per cent polyester construction, the company created rugs that could be fully recycled through its take-back programme. But the material innovation also unlocked a range of unexpected practical benefits, including impressive durability, weather resistance and the ability to be machine-washed.

GARDENS ARE NO

LONGER

JUST SPACES FOR GARDENING OR APPRECIATING NATURE, BUT PLACES TO RELAX, ENTERTAIN AND EVEN WORK

Following extensive testing across the different textures and qualities within the range, Louis De Poortere can now confirm that the entire Ecorugs 2026 collection is suitable for outdoor use.

This means the brand’s distinctive designs,

Alan Russell, sales director at Louis De Poortere, explains: “Outdoor living has grown significantly and homeowners are paying increasing attention to how their gardens support their lifestyles beyond traditional expectations of what a garden should be. They’re no longer just spaces for gardening or appreciating nature, but places to relax, entertain and even work.”

The practicality of Ecorugs also makes them well-suited to busy indoor spaces. Their washable design provides a convenient solution for households with pets, children or high foot traffic, where occasional spills and everyday accidents are part of daily life. With the ability to refresh the rug in a washing machine, homeowners can keep their interiors looking fresh without the need for professional cleaning. n

louisdepoorterestore.com

IT’S SHOWTIME IN THE GARDEN

May is the month when everything gets busy in the garden. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show from 19th until 23rd May gets the show season off to a start and can be a great source of inspiration for both experienced and novice gardeners

One of simplest starter ideas for anyone new to gardening is to create a herb garden. From sage to thyme, rosemary to clipped bay and flowering chives, you can combine a variety of herbs in one space that will produce long-lasting displays as well as regular pickings for the kitchen.

Successful herb garden designs often define the space using brick pavers, dividing-up the area with small paths to provide easy access for picking, but for small spaces herbs can also be grown in pots. Low-growing thyme is a herb garden favourite, perfect for making a herb carpet or filling gaps between paving. Mint is a versatile herb but best kept contained to prevent it invading borders and flowerbeds, so grow it in a pot or large bottomless bucket. Rosemary is a hardy shrub with aromatic leaves and has a long flowering season and chives provide an ornamental floral display to any border or planter.

As many herbs have Mediterranean origins they like being in the sun, so the timing is

perfect as May sees more sunshine and longer days, which means more time for gardening! Another sun-loving plant, that you can sow direct into the ground at this time of year,

ANOTHER SUN-LOVING PLANT, THAT YOU CAN SOW DIRECT INTO THE GROUND AT THIS TIME OF YEAR, IS THE CALIFORNIAN POPPY

is the Californian poppy. Simply sprinkle seeds thinly and evenly over a well-raked patch of damp soil where they are going to flower, in full sun. Use a small hand rake to gently work the seeds into the soil and keep an eye out for seedlings in seven to 10 days. Once they are big enough to handle, thin them out to leave a plant every 15cm. If there is one job to be done this month it’s to give your perennials the Chelsea chop –so called, because it’s done around the time of RHS Chelsea Flower Show. It works best with herbaceous perennials that are naturally branching such as echinacea, sedum, phlox, penstemon and salvia. By cutting them back now it will extend their flowering season, encourage compact growth and reduce the need for staking. Simply cut back stems by a third using shears or secateurs. n

MAY TASKS

Garden jobs for May suggested by the RHS are:

• Watch out for late frosts and protect tender plants

• Earth up potatoes and plant any still remaining

• Plant out summer bedding plants at the end of the month, weather permitting

• Water early and late to get the most out of your water, recycle water if possible

• Hoe off weeds in vegetable patches

• Open greenhouse vents and doors on warm days

• Mow lawns but consider leaving some areas uncut for wildlife, or mow less often so flowers can bloom

• Check carefully for nesting birds before clipping hedges

• Lift and divide overcrowded clumps of daffodils and other spring bulbs

• Watch out for viburnum beetle and lily beetle grubs and remove by hand if causing damage

SOLID FOUNDATIONS

In an industry often driven by trends and quick turnarounds, a family business in Bamber Bridge stands firmly on something far more enduring – customer service, experience and a genuine commitment to quality, writes Katie Hammond. Photography: Michael Porter

Stepping through the doors of The Flooring Centre, it is immediately evident that the business is very much a family affair.

Having grown into a renowned and trusted name locally, the dedicated team of four family directors and three sales staff boasts a structure which reflects both its roots and its future - combining decades of experience with a forward-thinking approach to design and customer service.

That balance is evident the moment you visit. The 500 square metre showroom is home to a full range of flooring options to suit all tastes and budgets from bedroom or lounge carpets to hardwood or alternative natural options. Recently refreshed displays showcase three of the most respected names in luxury vinyl tiling (LVT), underlining the company’s commitment to consistently offering customers both choice and quality.

A brand-new Karndean stand takes centre stage - designed with the customer in mind, making it easier than ever to explore styles, textures and finishes. Celebrated brand Invictus is also making an impression with its latest Ultimus range, a lightweight yet durable option which doesn’t compromise on design. Amtico’s Spacia collection has also been updated with a host of new colours, replacing older lines with a more contemporary palette. With tiles available in three sizes, it offers versatility and simplicity - ideal for everything from modern open-plan spaces to more traditional interiors.

Stocking all three brands is by designa clear statement about the business and its ethos. Quality-led, design-conscious and focused on giving customers the best possible options for their homes. Beyond the product, it’s the people who define The Flooring Centre. The family’s hands-on approach ensures that every customer benefits from genuine expertise and honest advice – something which comes only via the many years of experience and working in the trade.

FOR US AS A FAMILY, IT’S NEVER BEEN JUST ABOUT SELLING FLOORING, BUT MORE BASED IN HELPING CUSTOMERS MAKE CONFIDENT CHOICES WHICH WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME IN THEIR HOMES.

Director Michelle Morton explains: “For us as a family, it’s never been just about selling flooring, but more based on helping customers make confident choices which will stand the test of time in their homes. In a competitive market, that combination of heritage, knowledge and carefully curated design is what we feel continues to set us apart.”

For Michelle and the family, every floor has a story - and it starts with knowing the value of getting it right from the ground up. n

Kate Bowyer meets head designer Mandy Marshall to discover why craftsmanship, creativity and personal service never go out of style.

Stepping into Marshalls’ bright showroom on Church Street, my fingers are immediately drawn to the tactile pleasure of satin, velvet and richly woven brocades as I leaf through books of sumptuous fabric swatches.

“These are fabrics you’re meant to touch,” smiles Mandy Marshall, head designer at the family-run business which celebrates its 60th birthday this year. “It’s about far more than colour or pattern. Fabrics add warmth, texture and depth to a room. They change how light moves and how a home feels.”

That instinctive understanding of interiors has shaped Mandy’s life. Growing up surrounded by fabrics, fittings and customers, she saw first-hand the dedication her father poured into building the business. After studying design at university, Mandy moved to London to work in fashion. Yet regular trips home to help with displays and home visits soon reignited her love of interiors.

“I realised I loved creating spaces that people actually lived in,” she explains. “I’d

MAKING HOUSES FEEL LIKE HOME

From velvet brocades to sustainable linens, independent interiors specialist Marshalls of Preston has spent 60 years helping customers transform houses into homes

suggest new ideas, we’d try them and they worked. Gradually I understood that my future was here at Marshalls, building on what dad started and expanding beyond the curtains we were once known for.”

Mandy and her team have helped establish Marshalls as one of the North West’s leading soft furnishing specialists. From curtains, blinds and bedding to upholstery, cushions and accessories, every detail is carefully sourced, designed and fitted with precision.

WE’VE BUILT UP PARTNERSHIPS WITH GREAT FABRIC CREATORS, DESIGNERS AND PRODUCERS, SO WE CAN SPECIALISE IN TRADITIONAL AND HARD-TO-GET TEXTILES

What sets Marshalls apart is its personal approach. While many retailers rely on mass-produced collections, Marshalls combines an extensive choice of fabrics with genuine expertise and in-house craftsmanship. Customers can choose ready-made off the peg, ready to hang designs, alterations or fully bespoke creations, all supported by the same friendly service.

“We’ve developed strong relationships with specialist fabric houses and suppliers over the years,” says Mandy. “That means we can source traditional and harder-to-find textiles as well as contemporary sustainable fabrics.”

The showroom houses more than 14,000 fabric samples from names including Clarke & Clarke, Harlequin and Ashley Wilde, while Mandy also travels across the region with samples, ideas and her trusty

tape measure to help customers visualise schemes in their own homes.

Keeping work local allows the team to maintain close attention to detail and realistic turnaround times, whether fitting a modern townhouse, country barn or family terrace.

“The fabrics in our homes become part of everyday life,” Mandy reflects. “You should love them years later just as much as when you first chose them. That’s what we still care about after 60 years.” n

Marshalls

29 Church Street, Preston PR1 3BQ

01772 257974

07800 539476

info@marshalls.com marshallspreston.com

marshalls_furnishings

Photography: Michael Porter

Photography:

Michael Porter

Photography: Roger Moore

MODERN CLASSICS

VIBRANT STYLE

Scruples unveils a strong spring summer collection blending bold colour, premium brands and refined craftsmanship for style-conscious men seeking a standout look. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Colour is the name of the game at Scruples menswear with the arrival of the new season spring summer collections and an exciting capsule pre-collection. Across both the established Scruples 1984 store in Barrowford and the new high street destination in Whalley, the focus this season is clear, vibrant colour delivered with confidence. From accessories and footwear to denim, shirts, knitwear and tees, the collections are designed for men who want their wardrobe to make a statement while retaining timeless style.

Discover an impressive line-up of leading international brands, many of which are exclusive to Scruples outside London and Manchester.

Shirts by Claudio Lugli feature in the new Scruples’ collections – this is an exceptional brand designed to evoke response. It is daring and dynamic.

Speaking with Stephen Collins and Tom Orrell, they explain: “The latest designs from Claudio Lugli are wild! They feature splashes of colour and funky designs, from the Amalfi coast to Hawaiian beach and Paradise prints – they emanate presence and character.”

Denim from Tramarossa introduces playful colour through its signature badging, including a new-season Beatles tribute

badge, while Tramarossa chinos arrive in a spectrum of fresh seasonal tones. Footwear is equally expressive, with penny loafers by Moreschi crafted from soft leather and suede, hand stitched for flexibility and comfort. Italian heritage meets contemporary style in every pair, reflecting decades of expertise.

Accessories continue the colourful theme. Belts by Elliot Rhodes showcase refined craftsmanship with a creative twist. Designed in the UK and handcrafted in Italy and Spain, each belt features an interchangeable system that allows wearers to personalise their

look, choosing from an array of straps and distinctive buckles made from gold, sterling silver and semi-precious stones.

Eton shirts bring a softer palette with elevated fabrics in mint green, soft pink and lavender, ideal for a polished spring summer wardrobe. Knitwear by Filippo de Laurentiis blends luxurious textures with traditional Italian techniques, offering versatile pieces from collared knits to classic crew necks.

THE LATEST DESIGNS FROM CLAUDIO LUGLI ARE WILD! THEY FEATURE SPLASHES OF COLOUR AND EMANATE PRESENCE AND CHARACTER

Tom adds: “Vibrant colour is everywhere this season from ties to pocket squares and shirts. It represents the unmistakeable transition as we head into spring and summer.”

Scruples also presents the latest from Herno and Canali, with Canali continuing its legacy of understated Italian luxury. Completing the look is an exclusive eyewear selection from Dita, Zegna and Tom Ford with Dita’s latest aviator paying tribute to Elvis Presley, delivering standout style with a nostalgic edge.

Visit Scruples in Whalley or Barrowford to explore the new collections and experience the season’s bold approach to modern menswear. n

Scruples of Whalley

1 King Street, Whalley BB7 9SP 01254 311805

Scruples 1984

85-87 Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX 01282 699007

07711 093242

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

@scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

SUN-READY STYLE

Elevate how you see the world with sunglasses and stylish tint trends to match the occasion

With brighter days finally on the horizon, sunglasses become far more than a finishing touch – they are essential for protecting your eye health while enhancing both your vision and

personal style. At the heart of this experience is The Spectacle Factory, a fashion-forward, destination store renowned for its distinctive eyewear collections and expertise in bespoke lenses and custom tints.

High-quality lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare and enhance clarity, ensuring visual comfort in even the brightest conditions.

A WORLD OF STYLE, PRECISION AND CHOICE

Step inside The Spectacle Factory and you will discover a carefully curated selection of frames from around the world. Luxury names

Photography: Robin Lyndon

such as Cartier, Gucci, Chloé and Boss sit alongside innovative independent collections, offering a seamless balance of style and function.

From bold statement pieces to timeless minimalist designs, every frame is chosen with individuality in mind. Beyond aesthetics, the focus remains on performance, combining style with optical precision and longterm eye care.

Among the standout options are high-performance designs from Maui Jim, where advanced lens technology enhances colour, improves contrast and reduces glare – ideal for clear, comfortable vision in bright sunlight.

WHERE STYLE MEETS VISUAL PERFORMANCE

One of the most exciting developments in modern eyewear is the rise of custom lens tinting. Moving beyond standard dark lenses, clients are increasingly choosing tailored tints such as soft blues, greens, warm ambers and rose tones. These tints don’t just elevate

the look of your eyewear, they actively enhance how you see. Different colours can improve contrast, reduce eye strain and optimise vision for specific environments, whether you are driving, travelling or spending extended time outdoors.

At The Spectacle Factory, bespoke lenses are a speciality. Using advanced technology and expert knowledge, the team creates lenses tailored not only to your prescription, but to your lifestyle, achieving the perfect balance of style, vision and eye health.

SUSTAINABILITY WITH PURPOSE

Sustainability continues to shape the future of eyewear, with more consumers seeking products that align with their values without compromising on quality or design.

Collections such as ECO Eyewear reflect this shift, offering frames made from bio-based and recycled materials. Many designs also feature practical innovations such as magnetic sun clip-ons, allowing seamless transitions

shapes and distinctive colours are defining modern style, allowing wearers to showcase their personality with confidence.

At the same time, timeless classics remain a staple. Aviators, refined square frames and lightweight titanium designs continue to offer understated elegance, paired with advanced lenses that deliver full UVA and UVB protection.

EYEWEAR FOR EVERY MOMENT

between clear vision and sun protection which is ideal for everyday convenience and travel.

2026: EXPRESSION AND INDIVIDUALITY

Looking ahead to Summer 2026, eyewear is more expressive than ever. Oversized silhouettes, bold

As sunglasses become an integral part of both fashion and eye care, many people now choose multiple pairs to suit different occasions and environments.

At The Spectacle Factory, the philosophy remains clear, eyewear should be as individual as the person wearing it. With expert guidance, cutting-edge lens technology and a passion for design, every pair is created to deliver three essentials: exceptional style, outstanding vision and uncompromising eye health.

Because the right sunglasses don’t just complete your look –they elevate how you see the world. n

Photography: Robin Lyndon

Che

Grensen

Lanx

Paul Smith

Private White V.C

Sandbanks

Sunspel

Vingt Quatre

Wax London

Armani

Calvin Klein

Diesel

J Lindeberg

Lacoste

Nudie

Pal Zileri

Parajumpers

Polo Ralph Lauren

Rayban

Replay

Tommy Hilfiger

Veja

PERSONAL SHOPPING

Whether

PEAK PERFORMANCE

Elevate your grooming routine with high-performance skincare, luxurious fragrances and every day essentials designed for modern men

NUXE MEN'S INSTANT FATIGUE-FIGHTER MOISTURISER £23

CLARINS MEN EXFOLIATING CLEANSER £26

A two-in-one purifier, this foaming cleanser with exfoliating natural microbeads thoroughly removes impurities and dead skin cells to give a clean, fresh and bright complexion. clarins.co.uk

Enriched with patented ash bark oleo-extract and infused with natural origin hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, this hydrates the skin for 24 hours while visibly reducing signs of fatigue. uk.nuxe.com

LIZ EARLE FOR MEN

SENSITIVE SHAVE CREAM £14

Achieve a closer, smoother shave and help prevent razor burn with this rich shave cream, infused with clary sage to soothe and calm, purifying eucalyptus plus naturally derived foaming agents. lizearle.com

MOLTON BROWN

MESMERISING OUDH

ACCORD GOLD BATH & SHOWER GEL £28

Swathe your senses in complete luxury with this opulent body wash - a glistening ode to richly complex oudh, infused with bright bergamot and smoky notes of black tea. moltonbrown.co.uk

AMPERSAND ICONIC

EAU DE PARFUM £60

The unique blend of oud creates a distinct aroma that is both warm and inviting, evoking a sense of luxury and prestige. The notes include oud, amber, cashmere, cinnamon, lemon and saffron. themeltco.com

ELEMIS X ASTON MARTIN ARAMCO FORMULA ONE™ TEAM DELUXE SKINCARE COLLECTION £160

A deluxe day-to-night collection of powerful, performance-driven skincare, curated in collaboration with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team. Includes: Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash 200ml, Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads 60pk, Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 50ml, Pro-Collagen Night Cream 15ml. Discovery set also available, with sample sizes for £85.

The Spa Hotel Ribby Hall Village ribbyhall.co.uk

STURM SUPER ANTI-AGING EYE CREAM £170

Biomimetic lipids support the skin barrier and the skin‘s own defence. With regular use, an extract from the Persian silk tree reduces the appearance of puffiness and dark shadows and helps lift the upper eye lid en.drsturm.com

HELIOCARE 360° SPORT

Transparent Stick SPF50+ £24.99

A high-performance full-spectrum facial sunscreen designed for athletes, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who won’t let the sun hold them back. Suitable for all skin types, the water and sweat-resistant formula ensures longlasting defence with an invisible finish. discoverlaser.co.uk

MEDIK8 ADVANCED DAY

TOTAL PROTECT SPF 30 £57

Great for men and women as a one stop shop SPF, antioxidant and moisturiser rolled into one and feels great on the skin. themeltco.com

TEN YEARS YOUNGER ONE YEAR ON

The power of EMA’s transformative treatment is evident when we take a look at one client whose remarkable transformation continues

One year on, Barbara’s journey with EMA has gone from strength to strength, delivering even more remarkable, confidence-boosting results. What began as a six-month skin rejuvenation plan has evolved into a long-term transformation, guided by Emma Pearce.

“A year on from my ‘10 years younger’ transformation with Emma, I’ve continued with a bespoke maintenance treatment plan and I’m even more delighted with my results. The confidence it has given me is so worth it – not bad for 75 years!” says a delighted Barbara.

Emma has refined and evolved Barbara’s bespoke, non-invasive treatment plan to meet her skin’s changing need s.

The results have not only lasted but improved significantly over time.

Over the past year, Barbara has followed a carefully curated combination of treatments, including the Dual Focus Fusion Treatment, Hyapen, EMA Em Face (electromagnetic facelift) and the Million Dollar Facial. This integrative approach has enhanced skin firmness, smoothed deeper lines and wrinkles, boosted hydration and strengthened overall skin quality and structure.

Barbara’s skin now appears firmer, clearer and more radiant than ever. Fine lines are further diminished, facial contours more defined and her complexion reflects a sustained youthful glow – now looking well beyond 10 years younger.

Emma Pearce explains: “Our non-invasive treatments are designed to evolve with the skin. Clients often see their results improve over time with the right maintenance.”

EMA is trusted by clients seeking natural-looking, safe and results-driven treatments. Every journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, ensuring each plan is tailored, progressive and grounded in clinical expertise, supporting both immediate results and long-term skin health.

Barbara’s story continues to inspire. At EMA, transformation isn’t just about change – it’s about sustaining and enhancing your natural beauty over time for healthier-looking skin –no surgery required. n

Fusion Treatment £199 OFF per treatment, areas start from £395

Pen £199 OFF per treatment, areas start from £250

TIME Offers end 30th June 2025

Ready to achieve lasting, visible results that get better over time? Book your complimentary consultation with EMA today. EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd.

EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd

Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate Preston PR1 2NJ 07547 802062

info@emaskinaesthetics.co.uk

emaskinaesthetics.co.uk

DR KIM WHITAKER

Clinical Psychologist

Call: 0161 5490866

Email:

Email: admin@drkimwhitaker.com

Web: WWW.adhd-specialist.net

admin@drkimwhitaker.com

WWW.drkimwhitaker.comW

W Call: 0161 5490866

Email: admin@drkimwhitaker.com

admin@drkimwhitaker.com

admin@drkimwhitaker.com www.drkimwhitaker.com

develops in childhood and about two thirds of children carry the disorder into adulthood. The way symptoms present can differ in males and females, and can alter with the passage of time.

Common presenting symptoms are appearing chaotic, poor time management, erratic moods, forgetfulness and distractibility. We often see co-occurring conditions, particularly with undiagnosed ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.

is a Neurodevelopmental condition; it begins in childhood and is lifelong. It effects social communication and is associated with restricted and repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivities.

ASSESSMENTS are NICE compliant and include clinical interview, observations, information from school or work, questionnaires, developmental assessment, in person assessment, review of reports and records and discussion with other professionals.

Individually tailored recommendations follow, and a feedback session is included after completion of any assessment with Dr Kim CALL 01615490866

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

So if you have any questions about your treatment, concerns about your ﬁnances or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.

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

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• Safe, clinically led solutions designed to restore quality of life

HEAR CLEARLY LIVE FULLY

May brings longer days and warmer weather. Life naturally becomes more social. Gardens fill with conversation, and time with family and friends moves outdoors. But for anyone living with hearing loss, these simple moments can become harder to enjoy

T hat’s something the team at Preston Hearing Care Centre and The Lytham Clinic see every day. As an independent audiology practice in the North West, they work closely with patients who find it increasingly difficult to follow conversations – especially in noisy places. O ver time, that difficulty can lead to frustration, tiredness and a tendency to step back from social events.

Hearing loss doesn’t just turn down the volume. It affects clarity. Background noise can drown out speech, making everyday interactions feel like hard work. This is particularly noticeable during spring and summer, when social calendars tend to fill up.

What sets Preston Hearing Care Centre apart is their focus on helping people experience the difference new hearing technology can make – and their belief that a hearing device should never be one-size-fits-all. Their sound demonstration and listening experience lets patients try advanced hearing aids in realworld situations, giving a clear sense of how much easier listening can become.

As an independent practice, patients are shown a whole range of hearing aid manufacturers and hearing aids, from Phonak Infinio Ultra to Oticon Zeal.

Simon Bland, director and senior audiologist, often sees the emotional impact of this. Many patients, he explains, don’t realise how much they’ve been missing until they hear clearly again – whether it’s conversation flowing more naturally or everyday sounds becoming easier to enjoy.

One patient shared their experience after visiting the Preston practice: “I had been wearing NHS hearing aids for about six years,

but they just raised the overall volume which didn’t help me much – especially in social situations. After coming to Preston Hearing Care Centre my hearing aids are a game changer. I can hear conversations again and even manage well with background noise in places like pubs or football games.”

AFTER COMING TO PRESTON HEARING CARE CENTRE MY HEARING AIDS ARE A GAME CHANGER. I CAN HEAR CONVERSATIONS AGAIN.

The Preston and Lytham clinics also place strong emphasis on ongoing care. Patients are not simply fitted with hearing aids and sent on their way. They are supported throughout their journey, with adjustments and advice available whenever needed. This personalised approach helps ensure each person gets the most out of their hearing.

Booking a hearing aid sound demonstration and listening experience at Preston Hearing Care Centre or The Lytham Clinic could be a straightforward first step towards reconnecting with the sounds – and the moments – that matter most. n

Call 01772 862000 to book your free hearing aid demonstration today.

Improves appearance and functionality of the skin

Non-invasive with minimal downtime

LIFE-CHANGING LASER

After years of hiding his nose and losing confidence, Brett discovered UltraPulse laser treatment at Discover Laser and finally found relief, recovery and a reason to smile again

CCharacterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn for treatment.

haracterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn for treatment.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic offers life-changing treatment for rhinophyma using UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.

also finding that my nostril was blocking, interfering with my breathing and also my nose was constantly streaming.

“I was at a stage this year where I did not think anything could be done. Then my neighbour saw an article in a magazine for Discover Laser. It seemed that there were other people with similar problems and there was a possibility of treatment.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic offers life-changing treatment for rhinophyma using UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.

Rhinophyma typically presents as a bulbous, enlarged nose with thickened skin and visible pores. In advanced cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airflow, causing functional and aesthetic concerns.

Dr Montero explains: “UltraPulse is ideal for rhinophyma, it allows me to target thickened skin with incredible precision. Unlike surgery, it’s minimally invasive and preserves healthy structures. The results can be transformative not just cosmetically, but emotionally and functionally too.”

“From the moment I telephoned for an appointment the experience was really positive. Miguel not only put me at ease but took one look at the nose and his opinion was that Laser treatment would work!

One patient, Brett, explains how his treatment has made all the diffference:

“I first realised I had a problem about 2016 with the swelling on the side of my right nostril. After about two years, I was referred to a private surgeon who did not want to have anything to do with the problem.

THE PROCESS WAS NOT PAINFUL AND WITHIN MINUTES THE GROWTH HAD GONE. THE RECOVERY WAS STRAIGHTFORWARD AND THE CHANGE WITHIN THREE WEEKS WAS REMARKABLE

“The process was not painful and within minutes the growth had gone. The recovery was straightforward – the change within three weeks was remarkable. My breathing is better and my nose has stopped running.

“I’ve been given my life back. Everyone, friends and family, are amazed! To anyone with this sort of problem, I would say do not hesitate to contact Discover Laser. I will always be indebted to them.”

Discover Laser is a trusted destination for advanced dermatological skin care in the North West. If you or someone you know is living with rhinophyma, there’s no need to feel resigned to the condition.

“The last two years have been horrible. The growth was accelerating in size and would occasionally bleed. I got to a stage where I dreaded social interaction, although as an accountant in private practice, I did have to deal with face-to-face interviews with clients. My mental health was, without me being fully aware, being affected. I was

THE PROCESS WAS NOT PAINFUL AND WITHIN MINUTES THE GROWTH HAD GONE. THE RECOVERY WAS STRAIGHTFORWARD AND THE CHANGE WITHIN THREE WEEKS WAS REMARKABLE

With expert care and advanced laser treatments, Doctor Montero can help restore both appearance and confidence.

To book your private RHINOPHYMA CONSULTATION with Dr Montero, call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886

I’VE BEEN GIVEN MY LIFE BACK. EVERYONE, FRIENDS AND FAMILY, ARE AMAZED!

~ BRETT, DISCOVER LASER PATIENT ~

BRETT BEFORE

BRETT AFTER

BRETT BEFORE

BRETT AFTER

THE ART OF PERFECTION

In the Ribble Valley, where craftsmanship and heritage are quietly revered, Renovo Dental has established itself as the definitive name in bespoke implant dentistry

Renovo Dental operates in a rarefied sphere where precision engineering meets artistry and where compromise is simply not part of the language.

Founded by the highly experienced clinician Dr Usman Riaz, Renovo was conceived with a singular philosophy - to deliver cosmetic and implant dentistry at the highest possible level - all meticulously planned, flawlessly executed and designed to endure for decades. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the practice now stands as the pre-eminent implant specialist in the North West, with

a three-month waiting list and a discerning clientele that includes fellow dentists who entrust their own smiles to Renovo’s care.

“It goes without saying that you should not compromise when it comes to implants and your smile, it is an investment,” says Dr Riaz. “Implants should last at least 20 years or more. If taken care of, lifelong. If you get an implant done once, it’s got to be done well.”

At Renovo, placing the implant is regarded as the straightforward element. The true mastery lies in the planning - an intricate, detail-driven process that considers gum architecture, bone health, facial harmony

and the individuality of every smile.

“For us, placing the implant is simple. Our philosophy is about the planning and making the implant look and act like a natural tooth.

“Aesthetic dentistry is not about changing smiles, it’s about respecting them. Implants must be harmonious with the facial aesthetics, as every smile is unique.”

It is this devotion to detail that elevates Renovo beyond clinical excellence into the realm of artistry.

FOR US, PLACING THE IMPLANT IS SIMPLE. OUR PHILOSOPHY IS ABOUT THE PLANNING AND MAKING THE IMPLANT LOOK AND ACT LIKE A NATURAL TOOTH. THAT’S THE HOLY GRAIL

Central to that journey is an in-house specialist team, ensuring continuity, accountability and an uncompromising standard of care. Among them is Dr Khurrum Hussain, a highly experienced specialist periodontist and implant surgeon whose expertise has earned international recognition. Recently, Dr Hussain was invited to present at the prestigious ICE Annual Scientific Symposium 2026, which focused on ‘Innovations in Implant Dentistry and Peri-Implant Disease’. Held at the Manchester Hilton, the symposium gathered the world’s leading implant authorities, including keynote speaker Professor Tomas Albrektsson, widely regarded as the father of modern dental implantology.

Dr Hussain joined this distinguished line-up to discuss how serious implant failures and complications can be avoided - a subject that lies at the very heart of Renovo’s philosophy.

‘’It’s about precision, predictability and control’’ says Dr Khurrum. “That makes everything much easier for the patient.”

The latest technology at Renovo is not employed for spectacle, but for superiority. Advanced CT scanning and digital smile design software allow for forensic-level planning.

From the first assessment to final smile, every step follows a patient-specific workflow, where the gum profile, the biomechanics, including the bite and smile aesthetics, are all pre-planned.

“There is no guesswork. We already know what the result is going to be, so for us it’s all about the journey. We find that journey

exciting and we like our patients to be involved in the planning too.”

Yet what truly sets Renovo apart is its holistic approach. Many implants are placed on the same day, often without the need for bone grafting, gum removal or sutures. High-tech laser systems are used to disinfect and accelerate healing. Renovo has taken this even further by incorporating oral biomarkers to assess inflammation and study the micronutrition to support healing.

“Optimising a patient’s health before implant surgery acts in our favour,” explains Dr Riaz. Patients may self-refer or be referred by their own dentists and once under Renovo’s care they are coached and mentored in maintaining exemplary oral health and as Dr Riaz explains: “Our aim is to deliver dentistry that not only looks great, but the teeth feel like they truly belong and last for many more years.”

The results speak volumes. More than 1,000 smiles have been transformed through implant rehabilitation since the foundation of Renovo Dental. Whether replacing a single tooth or reconstructing multiple teeth, the objective remains unwaveringlongevity, practicality and beauty in perfect balance.

OUR AIM IS TO DELIVER DENTISTRY THAT NOT ONLY LOOKS GREAT, BUT THE TEETH FEEL LIKE THEY TRULY BELONG AND LAST FOR MANY MORE YEARS

Indeed, Renovo’s implants are crafted to mimic nature so convincingly that patients and observers cannot distinguish them from the real thing. “People often can’t believe they’re not their natural teeth. That’s the holy grail.”

Working six days a week and dedicating many hours to meticulous planning, the Renovo team remains driven not by volume, but by passion. Dentistry, as Dr Riaz affirms, is evolving and Renovo is proud to be at its vanguard, inspiring the next generation while quietly redefining what is possible.

In the Ribble Valley, excellence has found its benchmark at Renovo Dental where perfection is not pursued it is engineered. n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk

renovodental.co.uk

it’s about developing healthier ways to deal with it.

Exercise regularly. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress.

Talk to someone you trust. Simply sharing what’s going on can often make problems feel more manageable.

Make time to switch off. Reading, music, sport, DIY projects, fishing or spending time outdoors can provide valuable mental breathing space.

Watch unhealthy coping habits. Alcohol, excessive screen time or burying stress in work can offer temporary relief but often make anxiety worse.

MIND MATTERS

Under pressure? Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes examines how men struggle with and manage, stress and anxiety

For generations, men have been taught a simple rule – keep it together, be strong, provide and push through. Don’t complain.

Yet behind the calm exterior many men present to the world, there is often a different story. Work pressures, financial responsibilities, family expectations, relationship challenges and the quiet worry of not quite measuring up can create a heavy mental load.

Stress and anxiety are not signs of weakness. They are normal responses to the pressures of modern life. What matters is recognising them and finding ways to manage them before they begin to take control.

Stress rarely appears overnight. More often it builds slowly. For many, anxiety doesn’t always show up as worry or nervousness, instead, it can appear as irritability, frustration, poor

sleep or a constant sense of being on edge. Rather than talking about it, many men respond by pushing harder. They throw themselves deeper into work, distract themselves with alcohol or screens, or quietly withdraw from friends and family. Others simply tell themselves to ‘man up’ and keep going.

The problem is that ignoring stress rarely makes it disappear. If anything, it tends to grow.

Problems that might have been manageable early on can gradually develop into burnout, depression or physical health issues. The positive news is that attitudes are changing.

SPOTTING THE SIGNS

Stress and anxiety affect everyone differently, but there are some common warning signs worth paying attention to:

• Difficulty sleeping or constant fatigue

• Feeling overwhelmed or unable to switch off

• Irritability or sudden anger

• Trouble concentrating

• Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension or digestive problems

If these symptoms persist for weeks or months, they are usually a signal that something needs attention.

FINDING HEALTHIER WAYS TO COPE

Managing stress doesn’t mean eliminating it entirely. That would be unrealistic. Instead,

Prioritise rest. Good sleep and regular downtime are essential for maintaining mental resilience.

WHY COUNSELLING CAN FEEL DIFFICULT

Despite growing awareness, many men still find the idea of counselling uncomfortable. Some men genuinely struggle to put their experiences into words. There is also the issue of vulnerability. Opening up about worries or fears can make some men feel exposed or judged.

Another factor is mindset. Many men approach problems with a practical, solution-focused attitude. They want to identify the issue, fix it and move on.

However, when counselling is understood as a way to gain insight and develop practical coping strategies, many men find it far more useful than they expected.

At its core, counselling offers something many men rarely experience – a confidential, non-judgemental space to talk openly about stress, anxiety, anger or relationship difficulties.

Today, more men are beginning to recognise that real strength isn’t about carrying every burden alone – it’s about knowing when to reach out. n

Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.

Pain Management Clinics at our Lancashire Hospitals

Clinics available at Buckshaw Hospital, Euxton Hall Hospital and Fulwood Hall Hospital

We offer treatments, including injections, for the relief of pain so you can get back to doing the things you love. Prices starting from £950

To find out more about our Pain Management services why not scan the QR code. Contact our teams for more information or to book an appointment.

Buckshaw Hospital: 01257 650 710

Euxton Hall Hospital: 01257 650 183

Fulwood Hall Hospital: 01772 341 257

HEALTHCARE THAT PUTS YOU FIRST

As private healthcare continues to evolve, prevention, personalisation and speed are becoming just as important as treatment itself

We sat down with Noel Tracey, Director of Operations at Fylde Private Medical in St Annes, to discuss new services, emerging technologies and how the clinic is redefining what modern private care looks like.

Fylde Private Medical has been expanding its services – what’s new and exciting at the moment?

One of the biggest areas of growth for us is around skin health. We’ve significantly developed our skin clinic, particularly our minor surgery services, which is becoming increasingly important as NHS waiting lists grow. Alongside that, we’re expanding into medical aesthetics, but always with a strong clinical foundation. Everything we

do in aesthetics is overseen by our consultant dermatologist, so it’s not beauty-led, it’s medically run. That’s a really important distinction for us.

You mentioned new technology coming into the clinic – can you tell us more about that?

Yes, we’re currently in the process of purchasing a device that’s very new to the

UK called Aura Reality. It’s quite space -age, actually. Patients place their face into the device and it takes an extremely detailed, high -resolution scan. It’s AI - assisted and it analyses the skin to show exactly which areas might benefit from specific treatments. What’s powerful is that it removes subjectivity. Rather than being told by a practitioner alone, the patient can see an independent, AI-led assessment – including visual “before and after” projections. We’re doing several demos at the moment, but we’re very confident this will give patients even greater reassurance and confidence in aesthetic decision-making.

Are there any other specialist or emerging services you’ve introduced recently?

Yes, we have a female GP who specialises in aesthetics, with particular expertise in hair loss, especially for women of colour. That’s an area that’s often underserved, so we’re really pleased to be able to offer specialist, sensitive care there. We’ve also introduced a private echocardiogram clinic, which runs monthly. NHS waiting times for echocardiograms can be as long as nine months. We can offer appointments within three weeks, with the report available the next morning.

With so much growth, how do you maintain personalised, high‑quality care?

We’re very deliberate about how we expand. We only focus on one new service at a time, making sure it’s fully embedded and delivering the quality we expect before moving on to the next. Having specialist staff is crucial. These are clinicians who deeply understand their area and know how to deliver care safely, appropriately and compassionately. That’s what protects quality as we grow.

Are you seeing a shift towards more proactive healthcare among patients?

Absolutely. We launched our Premier Health Plan about two and a half months ago, specifically to support preventative, proactive care. It’s a membership model with limited spaces, and we’re now down to our final 40 places, which tells us a lot about patient demand. People want continuity, reassurance and early insight into their health – not just reactive appointments when something goes wrong.

What does the Premier Health Plan include?

Members receive priority access to all services, same‑day or next‑day GP appointments and access to a dedicated GP who knows them. There’s also a member concierge service, which removes stress from booking and navigating care. The plan includes an annual health screening, covering an active health check, skin assessment, blood analysis and

a healthy heart ECG, with a personalised report. Members also have up to eight GP consultations per year included, plus discounted access – up to 20% off – other services. Importantly, it’s about conversation and reassurance. Every result is explained by a doctor before reports are sent out, so patients aren’t left worrying or Googling out of context.

How do you ensure aesthetic treatments meet the same standards as medical care? All our aesthetics sit firmly within medical governance. Treatments are delivered by our aesthetic GPs and overseen by our consultant dermatologist, who is ultimately responsible for all skin services. We’re very clear that we’re offering medical aesthetics, not cosmetic beauty treatments. That distinction matters when it comes to safety, outcomes and trust.

Speed is often cited as a benefit of private care. How do you deliver rapid diagnostics?

We’ve invested heavily in on‑site and partner diagnostics. We have ultrasound services three days a week, allowing scans within 48 hours. We run our own pathology lab, so acute bloods can be turned around in a few hours. For MRI scans, we work closely with a local provider, often securing appointments within a week –sometimes even the same day – with next‑day reporting in urgent cases. That speed is incredibly reassuring for patients.

Are you expanding into corporate healthcare as well?

Yes, we’ll be launching corporate health offerings in mid‑June. We’re already seeing interest from businesses that want better access to healthcare for their teams and we’re also now affiliated with BUPA, allowing insured patients to access our services more easily.

Finally, how do you see private healthcare evolving over the next few years?

Pressure on the NHS isn’t easing and many non‑urgent but important treatments – like minor surgery – are increasingly moving into the private sector. I think we’ll continue to see growth in preventative care, diagnostics and specialist clinics, especially where speed and reassurance matter. What won’t change for us is the principle we’ve always worked by: every test comes with a conversation, every patient is treated as an individual and care should feel calm, clear and human. n

Fylde Private Medical

26 St Annes Road West Lytham St Annes FY6 1RF 01253 207568

info@fyldeprivatemedical.com

fyldeprivatemedical.com

PAT, CHAT AND THE POWER OF HORSES

Away from rosettes and polished boots, Wrea Green Equitation Centre is offering something rarer – connection between women, horses and much‑needed moments of calm

At the heart of it all is Ikram Alchane, a Preston‑based mum, carer and community‑builder whose ‘Pat and Chat’ initiative has opened the stable doors – quite literally –to women who never imagined a horse could be part of their world.

Ikram’s journey into the equestrian world began not with riding lessons, but with a chance conversation at a hospital appointment. While waiting with her son, who has Down’s syndrome, she chatted to

another mother whose daughter danced –and also rode horses through the Riding for the Disabled Association.

“I remember thinking, how is that even possible?” Ikram says. “I had never heard of disabled people doing horse riding. It felt like a completely different world.”

Curious, she was given the address for Wrea Green Equitation Centre and decided to visit. Her son was very young at the time and found the sessions overwhelming. But something else happened that day –something she didn’t expect.

PARTICIPANTS LEARN SIMPLE BUT MEANINGFUL THINGS - HOW TO APPROACH A HORSE SAFELY, HOW TO BRUSH, FEED AND LEAD THEM, AND FASCINATING FACTS SHARED BY THE INSTRUCTORS

“As soon as I came here, I just loved the place,” Ikram says. “The peace, the atmosphere. I thought, if I stop coming, I’ll miss out on this.”

At 44, she made a quiet but life‑changing

decision. She approached Christine Pollitt, who has run the centre for 45 years, and asked a question many women quietly carry. Am I too old to learn? Chris’s reply was simple. “If you can get on a horse, you can learn.”

That reassurance unlocked more than a riding lesson. It challenged an internal story Ikram – and many women – had carried for years. “Once you hit 40, you think you’re too old for new things,” she says. “But then I saw other riders, older than me, learning. I realised, actually, I’m not old at all.”

For Ikram, riding quickly became essential rather than indulgent. As a full‑time carer to a child with additional needs, daily life is demanding in ways that aren’t always visible. On horseback, that weight lifts – even briefly. “When I ride, I feel like I’ve had a shower on the inside,” Ikram laughs. “You come tired, but you leave refreshed. On a horse, you have to switch off. You can’t think about worries – you must concentrate. There’s nowhere else to go.”

That feeling was too powerful not to share. Initially, Ikram invited other mums of children with special educational needs to join her. Some tried riding lessons, but the cost made it difficult to sustain. During a conversation with Chris, the seed of an idea was planted.

“Chris just said, ‘What about something like… Pat and Chat?’” Ikram recalls. “She just threw it out there – and that was it.” The name stuck and the sessions soon took shape. Pat and Chat is not about riding, but about access –to horses, to calm and to one another.

Each session begins with around 45 minutes in the stables or arena. Participants learn simple but meaningful things – how to approach a horse safely, how to brush, feed and lead them, and fascinating facts shared by the instructors. Many of the women have

OUR PRIORITIES OFTEN CENTRE AROUND WORK AND EDUCATION, MAKING OPPORTUNITIES LIKE THIS FEEL VERY SPECIAL AND DEEPLY MEANINGFUL

never been near a horse before. The sessions are gentle, inclusive and deliberately non‑intimidating. English fluency doesn’t matter. Experience doesn’t matter. Curiosity is enough.

“For many of us, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, being around horses can feel like a luxury,” adds Ikram. “Our priorities often centre around work and education, making opportunities like this feel very special and deeply meaningful.”

After the horse session, the group gathers upstairs for tea, coffee and snacks. Ikram often brings food herself – small gestures that feel luxurious to women who rarely prioritise themselves. Conversations flow. New friendships begin.

The group is intentionally mixed –professionals, business owners, mums, women who don’t often get out. Influencers and retirees have stood side by side in the same muddy boots. “By the end, we’re all the same,” Ikram says. “Same energy.”

Importantly, Pat and Chat challenges the idea that equestrian spaces are exclusive. “I grew up thinking this world wasn’t for me,” Ikram reflects. “But Chris believes horses are for everyone. If she could have the whole of Preston here, she would.”

Word is spreading. Charities, older women’s groups and families are now asking about sessions. Some participants want to bring their children during school holidays. For Ikram, that growing interest is proof of something deeper. “A lot of women don’t realise there is something for them,” she says. “This isn’t just coffee with friends –it’s coffee in a different world.”

A world where horses don’t care who you are, what you do, or where you come from –only that you’re there, present and open. And sometimes, that’s exactly what a community needs. n

Hawkeye Falconry / BMX Stunt Bike Display / Daniel Thwaites Shire Horses / Shetland Pony Grand National

Ferretworld / Dog Agility & Family Dog Competitions / Bee Keeping / Bonsai Miniature Tree Displays / Military Village / Chloe Fuller & The Super Spaniels / Children’s Village / Fire Engine / Mini Land Rovers / Beer Tents and Live Music / Exotic Mobile Petting Zoo / Donkey Rides Children’s Circus / Fun Fair / Heavy Horse Competitions / Light Horse Competitions / Show Jumping Competitions / Fishing Displays with Jim Fearn / Craft, Lifestyle and Foo and Competitions tock Displays

A TASTE OF PURE INDULGENCE

Our visit, centred around the hotel’s aptly named Indulgence Escape, proved to be a celebration of fine food, thoughtful detail and much‑needed relaxation. With sweeping views of Pendle Hill and the rolling terrain beyond, it’s little wonder this stylish property has become one of the most sought‑after places to stay in Lancashire.

From the moment we checked in, indulgence was unmistakably the theme. Awaiting us in our elegant room was a bottle of chilled sparkling wine alongside artisan chocolates – an inviting start that immediately set the tone for the stay. With no agenda to follow, the afternoon was ours to enjoy as we pleased. A gentle woodland walk through the estate, filled with fresh country air, set us up perfectly for the indulgent evening meal that followed.

As evening approached, the real highlight beckoned – dinner at Wilfred’s Restaurant & Bar, one of the hotel’s two AA Rosette‑awarded dining rooms. Wilfred’s is a welcoming yet

sophisticated space, its ambience shaped by dark iroko wood, polished brass accents and sumptuous fabrics.

The menu champions British produce with confident Italian influences, crafted by an acclaimed team of chefs. The Indulgence Escape offer gave us £50 each to spend on the a la carte menu and we were spoilt for choice!

MORE THAN SIMPLY AN OVERNIGHT STAY, THE INDULGENCE ESCAPE DELIVERS A CAREFULLY CONSIDERED TASTE OF AFFORDABLE LUXURY

To start, I opted for the sun blushed tomato hummus, while my husband chose the garlic pizza bread with tomato – both light, flavourful and the perfect prelude. For mains, my Sunday roast was generous and beautifully cooked with melt in the mouth beef, while the 10oz fillet steak,

served with triple‑cooked chips, was a standout – tender, rich and expertly prepared. A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio tied everything together effortlessly.

Despite being happily full, dessert was non‑negotiable. Sticky toffee pudding and a vegan apple tart, finished with cappuccinos, were the ideal sweet ending to the evening. Service throughout the evening was attentive and friendly, striking just the right balance.

After a deeply restful night’s sleep, morning brought one last indulgence, breakfast. The light‑filled restaurant takes on a completely different character by day, with floor‑to‑ceiling windows creating a bright, airy atmosphere. We enjoyed a full English breakfast alongside fresh pastries and coffee, while the serve‑ yourself selection offered everything from yoghurt and fresh fruit to cereals, preserves and juices.

More than simply an overnight stay, the Indulgence Escape delivers a carefully considered taste of affordable luxury. A genuine treat for food lovers, it invites guests to slow down and savour each moment –from standout dining to restful surroundings. Running until 31st August and priced at just £250 per couple, it offers exceptional value for a truly indulgent getaway.

I can’t wait to visit again and I’ll definitely be adding on a visit to The Woodland Spa –the ultimate in indulgence! n

Nestled within 40 acres of Lancashire parkland, Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort offers a seamless blend of countryside calm and indulgent luxury, writes Ali Gudgeon

CHARITY FOCUS

Live Preston & Fylde takes a look at ongoing fundraising projects that see thousands of pounds donated to good causes around the region If you want to highlight a charity, please email: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

Sleeping Out for Change

The Big PNE Sleep Out, now in its third year, returned in March to raise awareness of female homelessness in Preston, with more than 220 people turning out to show their support and help raise funds by braving the chill at the home of PNE for the night.

Organised by Preston North End Community and Education Trust (PNECET) alongside The Foxton Centre, Blog Preston and Veolia, the event challenged participants to spend the night pitchside, sleeping on nothing more than a sheet of cardboard. Those taking part experienced a small glimpse of the hardship faced daily by women experiencing homelessness - a cause that is increasingly urgent.

This year’s Sleep Out has already raised nearly £60,000, with a longterm ambition to reach £100,000. Every pound raised will support vital initiatives run by PNECET and The Foxton Centre, both of which work directly with women across the city to prevent homelessness and provide routes to long-term stability.

City businesswomen Helen Kane and Rebecca Ansell were among those to take part – and for Helen it was her second time at the Big PNE Sleep Out. She said: “The first one I did in 2023 it absolutely lashed it down and we got soaked through – the water was rising up through the cardboard.

“I feel a bit tired this morning but you check the JustGiving link and see that total rising throughout the night and it’s incredible. The sun is up now and it’s time to get on with our Saturday and weekend but knowing we’ve done something to warm the heart.”

Girls Who Walk Preston members Lois and Kai added: “We were really proud to have been able to take part in helping support getting some funds for local charities, where we can help make a difference.”

The Big PNE Sleep Out builds on a proud legacy. Previous events in 2019 and 2023 saw hundreds of Prestonians brave cold and damp conditions at Deepdale, collectively raising nearly £150,000 over the years.

The cause could not be more pressing. Nationally, the number of homeless women living in temporary accommodation has doubled since 2011, according to Shelter. Women and families now make up 60 per cent of the homeless population in England, often facing hidden homelessness, sofa - surfing or unsafe living conditions that rarely make headlines.

Practical details were thoughtfully considered too. Cardboard bedding was provided and later recycled by Veolia, ensuring the event stayed true to its sustainability values as well as its social mission.

More than a fundraiser, the Big PNE Sleep Out is a call to action – a reminder that homelessness is not a distant issue, but one that exists in our own city, affecting women who need understanding, dignity and support. As Preston once again proved, when a community comes together, change is not just possible – it’s powerful.

Photography: PNECET

Forbes partner Leonie Millard, who specialises in clinical negligence, examines the cost of delay when cataract diagnosis comes too late

Cataracts are one of the most common and treatable causes of vision impairment, particularly as we age. In many cases, they develop gradually and can be successfully managed with routine monitoring and when appropriate, straightforward surgery. But what happens when diagnosis is delayed?

WHAT IS A CATARACT?

A cataract occurs when the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. Many people describe it as looking through a frosted window. Common symptoms include:

• Gradual loss of clarity

• Increased sensitivity to light Difficulty seeing at night

• Colours appearing yellow or faded

While cataracts are most often age-related, they can also develop due to trauma, diabetes, certain medications or other underlying conditions.

WHEN DOES DELAY BECOME A PROBLEM?

In many cases, cataracts are monitored by

THE HIDDEN COST OF DELAY

opticians or GPs until surgery becomes appropriate. However, a delay in diagnosis –or a failure to act on worsening symptoms –can lead to avoidable complications. A delayed diagnosis may arise where:

• Symptoms are missed or not investigated

• Referrals to ophthalmology are not made in a timely manner

• There is a failure to follow up on known visual deterioration

• A patient is incorrectly reassured despite clear signs of progression

Left untreated, cataracts can worsen, this can make surgery more complex and increase the risk of poorer outcomes.

WHAT AMOUNTS TO CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE?

Not every delay will amount to clinical negligence. The key question is whether the care provided fell below an acceptable standard and whether that failure caused harm. This may include:

• Failing to recognise or act on symptoms that a reasonably competent practitioner would have identified

• Delayed treatment or referral without clinical justification

• Misdiagnosis of the condition

Importantly, the delay must have made a material difference, such as preventing earlier treatment that could have preserved better vision or avoided complications.

HOW IS A CASE INVESTIGATED?

Investigating a potential claim involves establishing a timeline of events and reviewing medical records. The progression of symptoms and how they were managed,

is often central to this process.

Independent expert evidence, typically from an ophthalmologist, is usually required to assess whether the care provided met an acceptable standard and whether any failings caused harm.

THE IMPACT ON PATIENTS

The effects of a delayed diagnosis can be farreaching and deeply personal. For many, it goes beyond vision alone and begins to affect independence and confidence.

Patients may experience:

• Significant deterioration in vision, sometimes irreversibly

• Loss of confidence, particularly when driving or navigating public spaces

• Increased risk of falls or accidents

Social isolation or reduced quality of life

In more advanced cases, a cataract may become ‘hypermature’, increasing the complexity of surgery and the risk of complications such as glaucoma or inflammation.

WHY TIMELY CARE MATTERS

Cataracts are highly treatable and outcomes are often very positive. However, timely diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to achieving the best possible results. Raising awareness is key, to support early intervention and help preserve sight, but also to ensure accountability where standards of care fall short. For those affected, understanding what should have happened can be an important step in moving forward. n

Consultations are available by phone, video call or in person at our offices nationwide. For dedicated legal support, please contact Forbes Solicitors on 0800 037 4625.

When you talk with one of our team you’ll receive clear legal advice from people who are easy to talk to and responsive to your needs. We want to give you confidence in every decision we make together.

LET’S TAKE A WALK…

This peaceful walk lets you explore the Wyre’s rich history, natural beauty and wildlife. Take your time, enjoy the views and discover the stories that shape this unique landscape

1. Start your walk from Thornton Lodge which is situated on Skippool Picnic Area next to Thornton Cleveleys Cricket Club, around 10 minutes’ walk along the route you’ll be taking (Wyre Road).

Walk down Wyre Road bearing left past Thornton Lodge. A pub has stood on this site since around 1750, when the Ousel Inn was established.

The name Skippool, is believed to be a joining of the Old Norse word skip, which means ship, and the Old English pull/pol, for a slow-moving stream.

2. Continue along Wyre Road with the estuary on your right.

On your left is the privately owned house,

Tarn Hows. Also on the left is the Illawalla Cottages, likely associated with the now demolished Illawalla Mansion. Over the River Wyre from where you are standing now you can see the ‘new’ Shard Bridge, built in 1993. In the distance you can see the Bowland Fells and Parlick Fells is directly behind the Shard Inn. To the left, standing alone is Beacon Fell. You can also see Wyre’s highest fell, Fairsnape.

3. Continue straight on along Wyre Road. The River House is situated on your left.

4. At the sign for the Yacht Club bear right on to the surfaced bridleway that’s closest to the estuary (with the wooden post in situ and sign directing you).

5. The footpath beyond the Yacht Club goes past boat berths and moorings off Skippool. On your right, the River Wyre opens up into the wider estuary which then ultimately opens out to the Irish Sea and the southern reaches of Morecambe Bay.

6. As the path bears sharply round to the right, a track joins the main path from Underbank Road. Follow this route and

your walk will take you to Wyre Estuary Country Park.

7. Keep following the riverside path as it turns sharply right, with the reed bed on your right by the saltmarsh.

8. You now approach a small picnic area called Cockle Hall Picnic Area (where a footpath also leaves the main path on the left).

Wyre Estuary Country Park is located in Stanah near Thornton. Established in 1991 and covering 0.79 acres (0.32 ha), it is situated on the western banks of the 28-mile (45 km) long River Wyre, near its mouth at the Irish Sea at Fleetwood. The Wyre Estuary forms part of the southern boundary of Morecambe Bay. n

Important Warning – Please take care when following this trail and use a map. Be sure to check local tide times (for Fleetwood) online.

wyre.gov.uk

Photography: WECP

GRAND DÉPART

Summer 2027 will bring one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world to the Ribble Valley – as the 114th edition of the Tour de France rolls across Great Britain, writes Gail Bailey

The excitement is already beginning to buzz as the news that the Grand Départ of Le Tour de France is coming to the Ribble Valley in summer 2027. Locals and visitors alike will have the opportunity to watch the world’s top riders for Stage 2 of the event from Keswick to Liverpool.

Leader of Ribble Valley Borough Council Councillor Simon Hore said: “This is fantastic news. The Ribble Valley is a cyclist’s dream with its beautiful countryside, quiet lanes, lovely villages and great places to stop and eat. Not that the Tour riders will have time to take it all in.

“This will really help to put our borough on the map and I’m sure that the route will be lined with crowds of people on the big day. It’s also a brilliant opportunity to showcase

to millions of TV viewers across Europe what our area has to offer. I can’t wait to see the Tour come to the Ribble Valley.”

The 2027 Grand Départ of the Tour de France will be hosted across Scotland, England and Wales, marking the 28th time the race begins outside France and the first time it visits three UK nations in its opening stages,

starting in Edinburgh. The Grand Départ is the ceremonial launch of the annual Tour de France, encompassing the first few stages of the race. Since the 1970s it has been common to award the Grand Départ to cities outside France as a way of increasing international interest in the competition and the sport.

LOCAL ROADS AND LANES WILL SEE THE PELOTON ROLL THROUGH OPEN COUNTRYSIDE, PAST CHARMING VILLAGES AND FARMLAND

As one of the most prestigious and sought-after events in international sport it serves as a major, multi-day spectacle that attracts global attention and significant tourism.

The event represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of an international phenomenon that will light up the region. It is also a stand-out event as both the men’s Tour de France and the women’s Tour de France Femmes will start in the UK, making Britain the first foreign nation ever to host both in a single year.

Local roads and lanes will see the

Photography: Fencewood Studio / Shutterstock.com

Photography: 360b / Shutterstock.com

peloton roll through open countryside, past charming villages and farmland – offering residents and cycling enthusiasts a prime spot to watch the world’s best riders go by. While the exact line-by-line route isn’t yet published, initial maps show that Stage 2 on Saturday 3rd July is expected to bring the race from Lancaster over the Trough of Bowland, through Dunsop Bridge, Newtonin-Bowland and Waddington before heading through Clitheroe and onto Whalley.

THE EVENT REPRESENTS A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF AN INTERNATIONAL PHENOMENON

To witness the tour live is to feel the buzz of colour, sound and speed as riders sweep past. Whether you are a devoted cycling fan or simply curious, the atmosphere will be unforgettable.

With large numbers of visitors expected in the Ribble Valley, countryside inns, historic pubs, cosy cottages, welcoming hotels and outstanding camping, glamping and caravan parks will be in high demand. Stuart Hartley, who runs a luxury pod retreat

in Newton-in-Bowland, reports that enquiries have already begun to come in.

Hosting the Tour de France Grand Départ is more than a race – it’s a celebration of community, cycling and culture. Markets, festivities and cycling-themed events are likely to pop up in the area as the excitement

begins to build-up to the stages – an unrivalled summer highlight for both locals and visitors. So, whether you’re lining the route with friends, enjoying the festival atmosphere in the towns and villages, or simply soaking up the sense of occasion, July 2027 promises to be a summer to remember! n

Photography: Mark D Bailey / Shutterstock.com

TEE OFF FOR CHARITY

This October, one of the UK’s most iconic golfing venues will set the stage for a day that blends sporting prestige with heartfelt purpose, as the Blue Skies Hospitals Fund hosts its first charity golf day, writes Katie Hammond

The 18-hole Stableford competition takes place on Thursday, October 1st at Royal Lytham and St Anne’s Golf Club, offering players the rare chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing greats, whilst supporting a vital local cause.

To play at Royal Lytham is to walk in the footsteps of the sport’s greatest legends.

As a regular host of The Open Championship, this world-renowned course offers a unique and challenging experience to test even the most seasoned of golfers. From the iconic opening par-three to the infamous pot bunkers which guard its historic greens, the course provides a world-class setting for a truly memorable day of sport.

But beyond the fairways, the focus of the day is firmly on making a difference.

Blue Skies Head of Charity Kila Redfearn explains: “We are absolutely thrilled to be hosting our first ever charity golf day at such an iconic venue. It is incredibly exciting to bring our supporters together for a day which combines a world-class sporting challenge with the opportunity to make a real difference for patients across our local NHS trust.”

The day starts at 9am, with breakfast, tea and coffee served ahead of a 10am tee-off. Teams of four will then take to the course, competing not only for top honours but also for a headline-grabbing £10,000 hole-in-one prize, sponsored by Everywhen, specialist insurance brokers (split 50/50 between Blue Skies and the competitor).

WE ARE ABSOLUTELY THRILLED TO BE HOSTING OUR FIRST EVER CHARITY GOLF DAY AT SUCH AN ICONIC VENUE

As the final putts drop, participants will retreat to the historic clubhouse, where the evening programme promises a fittingly elegant close to the day.

Guests will be welcomed to dinner from 6.15pm, with a two-course gourmet meal served in refined surroundings and an evening hosted by Ged Mills, presenter at Coastal Radio DAB, in celebration of the day’s achievements.

The dress code for the evening is lounge suits, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the medal presentation to the winning team. The event will feature a charity auction as part of the fundraising efforts, with all funds raised going directly towards enhancing patient care across Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. From state-of-the-art equipment to initiatives which improve patient comfort and wellbeing, the impact of the day extends far beyond the course.

Entry is priced at £1,500 per team, with a range of sponsorship opportunities also available from just £550 for businesses and individuals keen to support the cause further.

More than just a golf day, the event represents a powerful coming together of community, sport and generosity - a chance to enjoy a truly exceptional experience whilst contributing to something which touches the lives of patients and families across Lancashire. n

For further information on booking the event or sponsorship packages, please contact Community Fundraiser Lynn Peat via email at Lynn.Peat1@nhs.net or by calling 01253 951004 (Mon–Fri, 9am-5pm).

A LATE CAST

At 66, discovering fishing becomes an unexpected lesson in patience, presence and connection, offering quiet moments of reflection, shared time with family and a welcome pause from modern life, writes Tedd Walmsley

There’s something quietly transformative about picking up a fishing rod for the first time at 66. It wasn’t a lifelong ambition fulfilled, nor a bucket-list moment ticked off with ceremony. Rather, it was a gentle nudge –perhaps inspired in part by evenings spent watching Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, where Paul Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer reflect on life, friendship and health between casts, that led me to the water’s edge.

What I discovered was far more than a pastime.

Fishing, as it turns out, is a masterclass in slowing down. In a world that nudges us constantly towards urgency – with emails, notifications, the hum of daily responsibility –there’s something quietly radical about standing still, watching the water and waiting. Mobile phones, quite naturally, stay in pockets. Time stretches. The mind settles. You begin to notice things – the ripple of a breeze across the surface, the call of birds overhead, the subtle shift in light as clouds drift by. It’s mindfulness, but without the jargon.

IT ENCOURAGES CONVERSATION WITHOUT FORCING IT, PROVIDES SPACE FOR REFLECTION AND FOSTERS CONNECTION WITH NATURE, WITH OTHERS AND WITH ONESELF

For me, it’s also become precious time with my son, Robert. Between work commitments and the rhythms of family life, uninterrupted hours together are rare. Yet here, by the bank, conversation flows easily – or not at all. Both feel equally valuable. There’s a shared purpose, but no pressure. Just companionship, punctuated by the occasional burst of excitement when a line tightens and the water comes alive.

And excitement there is. The quiet anticipation gives way to adrenaline in an instant. A catch, no matter how modest, brings a sense of achievement that feels both childlike and deeply satisfying. But alongside that thrill comes responsibility. Learning to handle fish with care, to respect their environment and to return them safely to the water adds a layer of attentiveness that sharpens the whole experience. It’s not simply about catching, it’s about stewardship. There’s also a broader conversation here, particularly around men’s health. Too often, wellbeing is framed in clinical or structured terms – gym sessions, step counts, prescribed routines. Fishing offers something softer, yet no less powerful. It encourages conversation without forcing it, provides space for reflection and fosters connection with nature, with others and with oneself.

At 66, I hadn’t expected to find a new rhythm, let alone one that feels so restorative. Fishing has gently reminded me of the value of presence, of being exactly where you are, with no need to rush ahead.

Sometimes, it seems, the best things really do come to those who wait. n

FAVOURITE, REBORN A FOND

The return of ‘Owd Nell’s and the Thatched Hamlet under James’ Places has struck a chord locally, ending months of uncertainty after its closure

We caught up with owner James Warburton, and his enthusiasm is instantly infectious.

“Regulars will know it had started to feel a little tired,” he says. “That was true behind the scenes too, so we’ve started there – kitchens, cellars, all the essentials – while making some visible changes outside.”

And those changes are already turning heads. The outdoor space along the canalside has been completely reimagined, with plenty of new seating, gazebos and pergolas creating relaxed spots to eat, drink and unwind. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or an early evening catch-up, it feels like a place you’ll want to linger. The addition of a wooden boat set into the gravel adds a playful, slightly unexpected touch – “a bit of theatre,” as James describes it – and one that people are already stopping to take in. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and familiar, but with a fresh energy running through it. “It’s very much a case of back to the future,” James explains. “For both the building and the menus.”

The food reflects that approach too. Much-loved ‘Owd Nell’s classics remain firmly on the menu, sitting comfortably alongside some new additions. It’s a menu designed to suit the moment –whether that’s a relaxed breakfast, a long lunch with friends, or an easy midweek supper.

There’s a real sense of momentum across the site. Work is ongoing to bring different

areas back to life, while the thatched roofs are being carefully restored one by one – a process that is already making a visible difference to the character of the venue.

THE OUTDOOR SPACE ALONG THE CANALSIDE HAS BEEN COMPLETELY REIMAGINED, WITH PLENTY OF NEW SEATING, GAZEBOS AND PERGOLAS CREATING RELAXED SPOTS TO EAT, DRINK AND UNWIND

James is clear that this is a journey rather than an overnight transformation. “The Thatched Hamlet wasn’t built in a day – it evolved over many years. Restoring it properly will take time too, but that’s part of the excitement. We’re really enjoying bringing it back to life.”

“The response so far has been incredible,” he adds. “I’m just really excited to restore it for the people who already love it – and for those who are about to discover it.” n

Owd Nells Canalside, Bilsborrow PR3 0RS 01995 640010

info@owdnells.co.uk

jamesplaces.com/owd-nells-thatched-hamlet/ Open 7 days

Sunday to Thursday: 8am-11pm Friday & Saturday: 8am-Midnight

A CLASSIC CUMBRIAN RETREAT

Set within 14 acres of private woodland and manicured gardens, Abbey House Hotel is more than just a place to stay - it’s a living piece of history, shaped by generations yet firmly thriving in the present, writes Katie Hammond

Designed in 1910 and completed in 1914 by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, the striking sandstone mansion was originally built as the private home and guest residence of Commander Craven, Chairman of Vickers Shipbuilding. In its formative years, the hotel welcomed an extraordinary guest list, with King George V, the Prince of Wales, the future Queen Mother - then Duchess of York - and even the Prince of Siam all passing through its doors when visiting Barrow for ship launches and high-level conferences or just enjoying the famous warmth of Cumbrian hospitality.

Step inside today and that sense of heritage remains beautifully intact. The Great Hall still stands as it always has, whilst the hotel’s layout offers subtle nods to its past life. Oscar’s bar was once the billiard room, its restaurant the former drawing room, while Abbots Bar served as the dining room.

The Garden Room was a private sitting space and the now reception area once bustled as the servants’ hall. It’s a building that tells its own story at every turn of the pages of history.

Abbey House’s journey has seen many twists and turns. In 1951, the property was taken over by Barrow Borough Council and transformed into a residential home for the elderly - a role it fulfilled until 1983, when it closed and fell into disrepair.

Its revival came in 1986 (this year marks the 40th anniversary of its newest incarnation) when Tim and Loretta Kilroe purchased the property and began the careful process of transforming it into the hotel it is today.

Their vision was clear - to restore its grandeur whilst creating something welcoming, contemporary and enduring. A sympathetic extension, added in 2000, saw the hotel evolve further without losing any of its original character.

TIM AND LORETTA KILROE’S VISION WAS CLEAR - TO RESTORE ITS GRANDEUR WHILST CREATING SOMETHING WELCOMING, CONTEMPORARY AND ENDURING

40 years on and the hotel remains proudly family-owned, now under the stewardship of their son, Tim Kilroe, and his wife Karen - continuing a legacy that is as much about people as it is about hospitality.

That strand of continuity sits comfortably in every corner of the beautiful and historic building. Many of the team have been in role for decades, creating an atmosphere which feels both professional and deeply personal. Operations Director Brian Conroy has worked with the Kilroe family for 32 years, whilst gardener Richard Courtman has tended the grounds for three decades, nurturing the landscape which frames the hotel so beautifully.

Laura Ellis – who is approaching 20 years of service - leads a highly experienced weddings team alongside Lauren Gee and John Moore, delivering celebrations with a seamless, intuitive touch, whilst Sales and Marketing Manager Donna Conroy oversees the hotel’s evolving presence, ensuring it continues to attract both loyal guests and new visitors to enjoy a few relaxing days away.

Oscar’s, the hotel’s AA Rosette-awarded restaurant, is expertly run by Michael Brown and ably supported by Executive Chef Craig Belstona space which balances refinement with a welcoming warmth, much like the hotel itself.

Over the years, Abbey House has evolved into one of Cumbria’s most sought-after wedding venues, with the addition of a stunning new Wedding Garden in 2025 offering a picturesque setting for outdoor ceremonies. That appeal extends far beyond the big day thoughfrom relaxed brunches to elegant stays, it continues to adapt – with fresh ideas layered onto its rich heritage.

Location, too, plays its part. With strong transport links, guests can easily explore the wider Lake District. Nearby Ulverston - just 10 minutes away - offers a lively calendar of festivals and events and the picturesque Bowness is within easy reach by car or bus, making the hotel an ideal base for discovering the whole of the region. n

ABBEY HOUSE HAS EVOLVED INTO ONE OF CUMBRIA’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER WEDDING VENUES, WITH THE ADDITION OF A STUNNING NEW WEDDING GARDEN

Yet for many, the real draw is the hotel itself. A place where history lingers, where the same family still leads with care and pride and where generations of guests return time and again - because Abbey House Hotel is not just about location, but becoming part of a story which has been unfolding for more than a century.

DELIVERING FOR FYLDE EAST

A focus on delivery, value for money and safeguarding vital local services has shaped Joshua Roberts’ approach as Fylde East’s county councillor

His record to date shows a councillor more interested in outcomes than excuses. “Local government works best when residents can see where their money is going and feel the benefit in their daily lives,” says Cllr Roberts.

FIXING THE BASICS – ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE

For many residents, road conditions are the most immediate measure of council

performance and this is where delivery has been clear. Working alongside Cllr Dwyer, nearly £3 million has been invested into Fylde’s local roads, a step‑change aimed at tackling long‑standing maintenance issues.

“People tell me constantly that roads matter,” Cllr Roberts explains. “That level of investment shows we’re serious about fixing problems, not just talking about them.”

The funding has helped improve safety, reduce disruption and support local businesses that depend on reliable transport links.

PROTECTING CARE AND ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Beyond infrastructure, Cllr Roberts has played a key role in securing the future of Milbanke Care Home in Kirkham, providing much‑needed reassurance to residents and families concerned about local care provision.

“Care services must be stable, local and protected,” he says. “Securing Milbanke was about safeguarding dignity and peace of mind for some of our most vulnerable residents.”

Investment has also been directed into waste services, ensuring collections remain reliable and responsive as demand grows.

TURNING WASTE INTO SAVINGS

One of the standout achievements has been backing the development of an anaerobic digestion plant, a forward‑thinking project that turns food waste into renewable energy and fertiliser. The result is around £5 million in savings every year and far less waste going to landfill.

“This is exactly the kind of infrastructure councils should be investing in,” says Cllr Roberts. “It saves money, reduces environmental impact and protects frontline services.”

These savings support the rollout of weekly food waste collections from early 2026, making recycling easier for households while cutting costs across the system.

STANDING UP FOR COMMUNITIES

As portfolio holder for Trading Standards, Cllr Roberts has also taken a firm stance against illegal trading. A recent joint operation in Kirkham with Fylde Neighbourhood Police led to the seizure of counterfeit cigarettes, illegal vapes and significant sums of cash.

“This kind of crime isn’t victimless,” he says. “It damages local businesses, fuels organised crime and puts public health at risk.”

A CLEAR MESSAGE

Across roads, care, waste and enforcement, the pattern is consistent: practical action backed by responsible spending.

“My approach is simple,” Cllr Roberts concludes. “Deliver locally, invest wisely and keep Lancashire on a stable financial footing for the future.” n

COMMUNITY CORNER

Bringing you closer to what’s happening around Preston and the Fylde, highlighting local projects, inspiring individuals and the moments that bring our communities together

If you have any community news items, contact: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL SECURES MAJOR FUNDING BOOST

Preston Caribbean Carnival has been awarded a significant grant from Arts Council England to support the delivery of its 2026 programme. This funding ensures the continued growth, cultural impact and community reach of one of the North West’s most vibrant and inclusive cultural events. The grant will enable the 52nd Preston Caribbean Carnival to expand its artistic programme, enhance community engagement initiatives and deliver an even more dynamic and immersive carnival experience in 2026. The funding will support a wide range of activities, including live performances, costume design workshops, youth engagement projects and collaborations with local and international artists. Don’t miss it on Sunday 24th May.

PRESTON COUNCIL AWARDS OVER £200,000 TO LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS

Preston City Council’s Cost of Living measures continue to provide vital support to residents, with more than £200,000 awarded to community groups across the city. Community organisations were invited to apply for funding in late 2025, with 24 local groups awarded up to £10,000 each to help launch new initiatives or expand existing services that make a real difference to local people in Preston. The funding will support a broad range of projects that help people experiencing poverty, isolation, mental health challenges, substance dependency, homelessness, or fleeing domestic abuse. It will also strengthen the work of organisations providing essential food support to residents most in need, with groups such as Preston Community Hub, Let’s Grow Preston and Friends of Billington Lodge set to receive funding through this scheme.

GARDENING CHARITY DONATION

A homebuilder has donated £1,000 to Let’s Grow Preston to fund inclusive gardening equipment for local communities. Let’s Grow Preston, based close to Barratt Homes’ Centurion Village development in Leyland, has received the £1,000 contribution from the housebuilder to support its work across community gardens and growing spaces in the city. Annie Wynn, CEO at Let’s Grow Preston, said: “We are extremely grateful for this support from Barratt Homes. This funding will allow us to invest directly in equipment that removes real barriers for people. The donation will be used to purchase new stools and adapted gardening tools for people with mobility needs and other access requirements.”

Photography: Paul Melling

TRAM BRIDGE RE-OPENS

Preston’s new Tram Bridge will officially open to the public on Friday 22nd May. Seven years after being closed due to serious safety concerns, the bridge over the River Ribble has been completely rebuilt and transformed into a modern 130-metre landmark, designed for people to enjoy and use for generations to come. The bridge will serve as a bridleway, as well as for pedestrians and cyclists. The replacement Tram Bridge has been delivered by Preston City Council using part of its £20 million grant awarded by the UK Government, with an additional £1 million from Lancashire County Council.

SCHEME HELPS DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS STAY SAFE

Preston City Council and Hope Prevails Preston (Formerly Preston Domestic Violence Service) have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting victims of domestic abuse with the continued delivery of the Preston Sanctuary Scheme, a partnership initiative designed to help individuals remain safe in their own homes rather than being forced to flee due to violence or threats. New funding has been secured to recruit a dedicated post to manage and coordinate the scheme, strengthening the support available to victims across the city. The Preston Sanctuary Scheme provides essential security improvements to properties, offering a lifeline to women, men and children who would otherwise face leaving behind their homes, communities, possessions and support networks due to ongoing abuse.

RUNNING GROUP CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

In 2016, the late Clive Barley brought together a small group of people to complete the NHS Couch to 5K programme as part of his recovery from bowel cancer. What began with six runners meeting at ParkView4U quickly grew into a community running group centred around the park’s playing fields. By 2020, membership had risen to more than 20 regular runners and long- standing members Nicola Harvey and Louise McLaren took over leadership as Clive stepped back. Today, Park View 4U Running Group is a thriving, inclusive community welcoming walkers, joggers and runners of all abilities, free to join and open to all. Around 65 members attend weekly. To mark its 10th anniversary and honour Clive, the group is installing wooden posts to create a permanent one -mile route, known as Clive’s Mile, for the wider community.

COMMUNITY CARE FUND NOMINATIONS OPEN

Caremark, one of the UK’s leading providers of home care, has opened nominations for its Community Care Fund – a new nationwide initiative designed to support local projects that make a positive difference to people’s lives. Members of the public, community groups and local not-for-profit organisations in Lancashire can nominate projects in their area that they believe deserve funding – with three individual grants of £3,000 each available across the UK. This could be anything from a local park in need of some plants, a pre-school looking to revamp its play area, a community centre wanting to update its kitchen facilities, or a local charity hoping to brighten up its space with a new lick of paint.

Nominations can be submitted online before 31st May. caremark.co.uk/community-care-fund

CANOPY OF COLOUR

More than 300 colourful flowers, butterflies and foliage elements have ‘bloomed’ above the city’s high street as part of Preston’s Canopy of Colour, a brand-new public art installation designed to bring colour, vibrancy and a sense of celebration to the city’s Fishergate. Spanning almost 700 metres, the decorative scheme is a canopy of bright, nature-inspired motifs suspended above the street, creating an uplifting visual experience for shoppers, visitors and businesses alike. Collectively, the nature-inspired elements form a striking aerial display running the length of Fishergate, which will also be lit at night. n

Photography: Michael Porter

include a wife finding out her spouse’s voting preference following an election, a wife deciding her spouse was just “too nice”, a husband losing a bet he’d made where he’d put his wife up as collateral, and a wife filing for divorce from her husband after finding out he didn’t enjoy the film Frozen.

Whatever the final reason behind your decision to divorce, whether it’s an obscure ‘straw that broke the camel’s back’ or your relationship has simply run its course, no-fault divorce offers a better way to divorce, allowing couples to amicably part ways and move forward with as minimal conflict as possible.

Please remember though, even though you may decide to divorce or indeed have already dealt with your divorce since no fault divorce was introduced, that does not mean to say you have safely and appropriately dealt with financial matters. That’s where having the right advice and guidance from a specialist family law solicitor will help to

THE END OF A MARRIAGE DOESN’T HAVE TO BE A BATTLE

Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, a marriage simply runs its course, explains Antonia Love, Partner and Head of Family Law at Farleys Solicitors

Thanks to the current law in England and Wales, divorce doesn’t have to be the big fight it once was. For the last four years, no-fault divorce has been in place meaning rather than a petitioning spouse needing to select one of five grounds for divorce; adultery, unreasonable behaviour, separation for more than two years, separation for more than five years, or desertion, the couple just need to provide a statement of irretrievable breakdown of their marriage.

NO-FAULT DIVORCE OFFERS A BETTER WAY TO DIVORCE, ALLOWING COUPLES TO AMICABLY PART WAYS AND MOVE FORWARD WITH AS MINIMAL CONFLICT AS POSSIBLE

Prior to no-fault divorce, I once read about a divorce case where a wife decided she wanted to divorce her husband because he would spend too long sat in his car outside their home after getting back from work each day.

Some of the other unusual reasons couples have given in the past for filing for divorce

keep things running smoothly, minimise conflict where possible, whilst ensuring you are appropriately protected financially or in relation to any issues regarding your children going forward.

At Farleys, we provide a comprehensive fixed-fee case management meeting for clients. So, whether you are considering a divorce or have finalised your divorce but not dealt with finances, or want advice in relation to issues regarding your children, this package gives you up to an one hour of legal advice followed by a bespoke case plan setting out the next steps for you.

So many of my clients have said our case management meetings are the best investment they make in ensuring they are protected, fully and hassle-free. n

For a confidential discussion with one of our expert solicitors specialising in divorce and financial or children matters, get in touch on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com, or visit farleys.com.

WONDERFUL WYRE IN SUMMER

As summer brings renewed energy to Wyre, its town centres stand out as places full of potential, character and opportunity

From sweeping coastal promenades to historic market streets, each town offers a distinct setting shaped by its people and place.

Cleveleys combines a traditional seaside setting with a strong local centre. Recent improvements have made the town centre more accessible and welcoming, particularly during the busy summer months. Cleveleys have created a long and varied events

programme for all the family, encouraging dwell and spend to support local businesses.

Fleetwood’s coastal setting is one of its greatest assets. From its sandy beach to the promenade that stretches along the Fylde coast. Fleetwood offers scale, views and heritage that few towns can match. The Fleetwood Waterfront Masterplan is helping investors to see the town differently, setting out a long-term vision for regeneration. Alongside

this, the Pride in Place programme progresses with residents and business owners working to progress shared ideas that strengthen the town and celebrate local pride.

Poulton continues to thrive as a distinctive and high-quality town centre. Building on its strong independent offer, work is underway to create pop-up shop opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Expressions of interest will open soon to craft makers, artists and other product focused businesses, providing a supported route to test ideas and build a customer base. This approach supports creativity while keeping Poulton’s offer fresh and locally rooted.

FROM

THIS SUMMER, ONE TO ONE MENTORING, TARGETED WORKSHOPS, AS WELL AS RE-START BUSINESS ADVICE IN WYRE RECOMMENCES

Garstang offers a different pace, combining historic streets with access to both riverside and canal side walks. This mix creates a natural day out experience, balancing shopping, food and relaxation. The town’s Inside Market has been improved and further makers markets will provide more opportunities for local producers and crafters, strengthening the town’s role as a centre for independent trade, and reinforcing Garstang’s reputation for quality, community and local identity.

Wyre Council continues to support hundreds of its businesses each year through its business support offer. From this summer, one to one mentoring, targeted workshops, as well as pre-start business advice in Wyre recommences. The new framework focuses on six themes, including the practical use of AI within each, commercial resilience, customer insight, leadership and sustainable growth.

The Small Business Growth Grant is supporting projects such as energy efficiency improvements, tooling equipment, specialist training and digital investment. A Rural Survey launches in June. This will shape future rural economic and visitor economy support by understanding rural Wyre’s businesses and residents’ priorities such as infrastructure, connectivity, landscape protection and local employment. n

Businesses seeking support are encouraged to visit: investinwyre.co.uk and use the Talk to Us form or contact: regeneration@wyre.gov.uk for a friendly chat with their experienced business team.

WHAT’S ON IN WYRE 2026

Don’t miss Wyre’s biggest and best events yet!

Garstang Children’s Festival

25 May, 11am to 6:30pm

Garstang high street and town centre

A joyful celebration for families of all ages, with a vibrant procession plus activities, performances and entertainment throughout.

Cleveleys Car Show

7 June, 10am to 4pm

Cleveleys high street and promenade

A great day out for car enthusiasts, with live entertainmet and free activities to enjoy.

Big Green Get Together

13 June, 10:30am to 4pm

Wyre Estuary Country Park, Stanah

Live music, street theatre, crafts and more for the family to enjoy.

Garstang Classic Vehicle Gathering

20 June, 12 noon to 6pm

Royal Oak Hotel, Garstang

Bring your classic vehicle, or just come along to admire and talk to fellow classics enthusiasts.

Wreck Trek

21 June, 8:30am Fleetwood beach

The ever-popular trek out to the Wyre Light, led by RNLI Fleetwood. Tickets required, visit www.discoverwyre.co.uk/events

Garstang Scarecrow Festival

26-28 June, Garstang

Enjoy the trail around Garstang, with live entertainament and funfair at the grand ﬁnale on 28 June at Garstang Community Sports Club.

Star Wars Meet Up

5 July, 10:30am to 5pm

Visit the ﬁlming site of the planet Niamos, as featured in the Disney+ series Star Wars: Andor. Meet a variety of your favourite Star Wars characters and browse stalls from local makers and crafters. The Venue, Cleveleys

Fleetwood Scarecrow Festival

11-12 July, Fleetwood

Explore the Scarecrow Trail around Fleetwood!

Memorial Park Family Fun Day

11 July, 11am to 3pm Memorial Park Fleetwood

Fairground rides, bouncy castle fun, performances, stalls and activities and plenty more for all ages.

Great Eccleston Show

18-19 July, Great Eccleston Showground

A vibrant showcase of rural life, farming heritage, food and family fun. Tickets required, visit www.discoverwyre.co.uk/events

Fleetwood Festival of Transport

19 July, 10am

Fleetwood town centre

Classic, vintage and heritage vehicles on display plus live entertainment, performances, crafts and more.

Wanderland

25 July, 11am - 5pm

Cottam Hall Playing Fields, Poulton

Wyre’s family festival returns with Peppa Pig, K-Pop Superstars and the Black Eagles on the main stage, plus inﬂatables, characters, face painting, animal encounters and more, all included in your ticket.

Book tickets at www.wyre.gov.uk/wanderland

Garstang Show

1 August, Garstang

An action-packed celebration of farming, food and the countryside. Book tickets at www.garstangshow.org

Fleetwood Food, Drink and Fish Festival

14-16 August

Fleetwood Market

Enjoy a continental market, street food, Fleetwood seafood, cooking demos and live music from headliners The Deadbeats. FREE

A SEASON TAKING SHAPE

With residents moving in, grounds maturing and new lodges arriving, Goosnargh Lodge Park offers a rare chance to join an already flourishing lifestyle setting, writes Tedd Walmsley.

Photography: Anthony P Driver

There is something quietly special about this time of year at Goosnargh Lodge Park. May brings with it a sense of clarity, the landscape sharpening into focus, the greens deepening and the longer light gently stretching each day. The park feels composed, confident and increasingly assured, as though everything is beginning to fall into place just as it should.

For Liz and I, living here part of the time, that sense of progress is something we notice constantly. Returning week to week, there is always something new to take in, subtle changes in the grounds, another lodge taking shape, the community quietly growing. It’s an evolution that doesn’t shout for attention, but reveals itself steadily, reinforcing our decision to be here with each passing visit. What was once a promise of space, design and possibility is steadily becoming a lived-

in landscape, shaped not just by vision, but by the rhythm of everyday life.

Most noticeably, the community itself has begun to flourish. With seven residences now occupied, there is a genuine sense of life

THE SAUNA, STEAM ROOM AND GYM, SOON TO OPEN, WILL INTRODUCE ANOTHER LAYER TO LIFE ON THE PARK, ONE CENTRED

AROUND WELLBEING, ROUTINE AND QUIET INDULGENCE

across the park. A quiet, unforced camaraderie that comes from shared experience rather than design. Morning walks lead to familiar faces, conversations unfold naturally and there is a growing sense that this is not simply

a collection of lodges, but a place where people are beginning to belong. With a further five families due to move in over the coming months, that feeling is only set to deepen. It is this balance between privacy and connection that continues to define the character of Goosnargh. Space remains a constant luxury here, but it is no longer just physical. It is social, emotional and unhurried, allowing each owner to engage as much or as little as they choose, without expectation or intrusion.

Across the grounds, the attention to detail has noticeably evolved. The landscaping has matured, with the ground staff refining and shaping the environment with a more curated hand. Edges are softer yet more intentional, planting schemes are settling into their surroundings and sightlines across the park feel increasingly considered. There is a growing sense of cohesion, as though the land itself is being gently edited into its final form.

One of the most engaging developments is the emerging community garden. Still taking shape, it already hints at what it will become, a shared space rooted in both

practicality and pleasure. It speaks to a slower, more connected way of living, where growing, tending and sharing are as much a part of the lifestyle as the lodges themselves.

Equally anticipated are the forthcoming wellness facilities. The sauna, steam room and gym, soon to open, will introduce another layer to life on the park, one centred around wellbeing, routine and quiet indulgence. These are not additions for show, but thoughtful enhancements that reflect the wider ethos of the park – considered, balanced and designed to enrich rather than overwhelm.

Choice, too, continues to expand. A number of new show lodges, now being positioned around the main lake, are arriving from respected manufacturers including Victory Leisure Homes, Prestige Homeseeker and Your Retreats, offering an even broader palette of styles, layouts and finishes. Alongside a small collection of existing show homes, these lodges will be available for immediate occupancy, creating a rare opportunity for those looking to step into park life without delay.

Around the main lake, another quiet transformation is underway. The golf holes, once part of the original nine-hole course, are being carefully rediscovered and redefined. Brought back into view with a light, considered touch that respects their history

while preparing them for a new season.

Many of the lakes themselves are original features of the landscape, now being thoughtfully brought back to life in every sense of the word. Cleared, restored and sensitively developed, they are already beginning to attract wildlife and over time, will become a true haven.

Taken together, these developments do not alter the essence of Goosnargh, they simply reveal it more clearly. The park is not trying to become something different, it is becoming more fully itself.

WHAT WE HOPED FOR AT THE OUTSET – SPACE, CALM, QUALITY AND A SENSE OF EASE – IS NOW PART OF DAILY LIFE

As May unfolds, there is a quiet sense of anticipation building towards the next open day from 23rd – 25th May. For those yet to experience the park, it offers the perfect moment to see it at its most complete. Not as a concept, but as a place already being lived in, enjoyed and shaped by those who

call it their own.

For us, that lived experience is perhaps the most compelling part of the story. What we hoped for at the outset – space, calm, quality and a sense of ease – is now part of daily life. And as the park continues to grow around us, it only strengthens the feeling that this is somewhere built not just to visit, but to truly settle into.

Goosnargh Lodge Park has always been about more than lodges. It is about pace, space and the freedom to shape a lifestyle on your own terms. Now, as the season gathers momentum and the community continues to grow, that vision feels not only realised, but ready for its next chapter. n

OPEN DAY WEEKEND 23rd – 25th May 2026

A great opportunity to visit the park and view the lodges. Visit the website for more details.

Goosnargh Lodge Park

Inglewhite Road, Preston PR3 2ED 01772 211211

goosnarghlodgepark.co.uk

WHERE MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES

At Longridge House, events feel personal and polished, with flexible spaces, tailored dining and a team that brings weddings, celebrations and corporate gatherings to life

For those familiar with Longridge House, its appeal is clear - design led spaces and a truly welcoming atmosphere. But speak to Ellie Smith, Head of Weddings and Events, and it’s evident the venue’s real strength lies in how effortlessly it hosts life’s many occasions.

THE DRAWING ROOM

The Drawing Room, features Bruce’s table - a handcrafted oak table by specialist carpenter, Bruce Kennith - which offers seating for up to 12 people.

You can reserve Bruce’s table on its own and have afternoon tea or a buffet or hire the whole room for up to 50 people.

“For baby showers, the Drawing Room works beautifully,” Ellie explains. "Guests naturally move from the dining table to the sofas or out into the gardens. It flows in a really relaxed way.”

THE LIBRARY

The Library is perfect for private dining, welcoming groups from 15 to 40 people for a chef’s menu dining experience.

“The Library has quickly become a favourite for birthdays. It’s intimate, has its own private bar and gives guests the freedom to make it their own,” Ellie says.

“Whether that is with dressing the room or table or playing their own music”.

It also benefits from a private outside space with views of the fells - just beautiful!

THE GARDEN ROOM

For larger celebrations, the Garden Room opens things up, accommodating up to 150 seated guests or 200 for a reception. It’s a space that works just as well for weddings as it does for community events and balls.

The fully glazed rear wall in the Garden Room gives you awe inspiring views of the perfectly maintained lawn and gardens and the Lancashire countryside beyond.

CORPORATE EVENTS AND AWAY DAYS

Corporate clients are equally well catered for. From boardroom meetings in the Library to larger conferences, flexibility is key.

“We’ve already hosted a number of full-day corporate events for local businesses,” Ellie notes. “It’s been great to see clients come back and rebook. It shows how flexible the spaces can be as people grow with us.”

Delegate packages simplify planning, covering everything from working lunches to tech. There’s also the added benefit of on-site accommodation and dining, allowing teams to stay, unwind and reconnect.

FOOD FOCUS

Food plays a central role across every event. The kitchen’s seasonal approach brings together local produce with thoughtful presentation, whether for a formal meal or a more relaxed buffet.

From BBQs and hog roasts to street food, bowl menus and canapés, the choice is yours. Bespoke menus ensure each event reflects the host’s vision rather than a fixed template. It all adds up to something rare. A venue that feels polished yet personal, structured yet flexible and always ready to host whatever comes next. n

Longridge House

Chipping Lane

Thornley

Chipping PR3 2TB 01772 233142 longridgehouse.com

Photography: Matt Herrington

Photography: Emily Robinson

FUN ON THE FYLDE

Tim Dixon, Tourism and Cultural Services Manager at Fylde Borough Council, shares his guide to making the most of spring and summer on the sunny Fylde coast

Spring has well and truly sprung with summer on the way and Fylde is looking gorgeous – the awardwinning Green Flag parks and gardens, Lytham Green, St Annes beach, Fairhaven Lake and Gardens are all a great spot for a picnic. There’s nothing quite like the sound of a brass band in a park on a Sunday afternoon – Blackpool Brass are back again this summer with performances in Ashton Gardens each month. And the upcoming wide range of gala days, Club Days and carnivals really bring colour and excitement to communities right across Fylde in June and July.

There’s the Lytham Car Show on 15th June raising much needed funds for Rosemere Cancer – a great place for car enthusiasts to see those classic cars and raise monies for a much-needed cause at the same time.

If you like the fun of the farm, head to the

Fylde Vintage and Steam Show in Treales, 28th and 29th June in the Show Field, where you’ll see agricultural machinery of a bygone era and the event offers a great blend of nostalgia, entertainment and education for all the family.

OPEN AIR THEATRE IS BACK AT LYTHAM HALL FOR THE SUMMER STARTING WITH A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM IN MID-JUNE THROUGH TO MID-AUGUST WITH PINOCCHIO

The Lytham Festival is back 1st-5th July, welcoming over one hundred thousand visitors over five days to Lytham Green who’ll be enjoying headliners Pet Shop Boys, Michael Buble, Pitbull, Alanis Morisette, Teddy Swims and a huge line up of support artists. There’s a great buzz around town and this year marks the 15th anniversary of the event. Tickets are selling fast – check out the Lytham Festival website for more information.

Open air theatre is back at Lytham Hall for the summer starting with A Midsummer Night’s Dream in mid-June through to midAugust with Pinocchio which really is a wonderful way to spend a glorious evening with the beautiful backdrop of the Grade I listed building. Away from the busy events programme at Lytham Hall, check out the Fylde Gallery on the first floor, which is a free to visit art gallery that is showing some of the paintings within the Lytham St Annes Art Collection, held in Trust by Fylde Council. The gallery is open Thursdays to Saturdays 11am to 4pm with donations welcome, which are invested back into the upkeep of the art collection.

Once again, Lowther Gardens will be playing host to events throughout the spring and summer, plus there’s a huge programme of entertainment both in the theatre and the impressive brand-new multi-million-pound Windmill Performance and Education Centre. Over the summer there’s music galore, comedy with Woofers Comedy Club, cinema, poetry with Pam Ayres and so much more!

There’s a network of footpaths all around rural Fylde, many passing a village pub or tearoom and you can download walks from the Visitor Info section of the Discover Fylde website. The likes of Saswick Farm, the Cartford Inn, the Miller Arms, the Grapes or the Hand and Dagger to name but just a few are all set in wonderful rural locations. n

For more information, just visit: discoverfylde.co.uk

HISTORIC HAVEN

Step into centuries of history at Browsholme Hall, where guided tours, scenic gardens and a welcoming café combine for a memorable day out

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of the Ribble Valley, Browsholme Hall offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore one of Lancashire’s most remarkable historic homes. As the county’s oldest surviving family residence, its doors are now open for the 2026 season, inviting guests to step back in time while enjoying a relaxed and rewarding day out.

Set within 600 acres of parkland, woodland and beautifully maintained gardens, Browsholme provides the perfect backdrop for both discovery and downtime. Knowledgeable volunteer guides bring the hall’s rich past to life, leading engaging tours that delve into its architecture, art and centuries of family history. Originally built in 1507, the house remains one of England’s finest, with an

impressive collection of artefacts gathered by generations of the Parker family.

Visitors are given a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the hall’s characterful rooms, where paintings, furnishings and decorative details each tell their own story. Outside, recent landscaping has enhanced the approach to the house, while the gardens continue to flourish year after year.

In the grounds meandering paths wind around a tranquil three-acre lake, offering space to explore, unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Families will find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, while the reimagined Wilderness Garden adds an extra layer of intrigue.

No visit would be complete without a stop at the Cart Shed Tearoom. Housed in a lovingly restored farm building, it provides a warm and welcoming setting.

The menu celebrates and focuses on local produce, with meats sourced from Lancastrian suppliers and cheeses from makers Mrs Kirkham’s and Butlers. A new coffee machine from Exchange Coffee offers freshly ground speciality coffee and homemade bakes are a highlight, alongside

BROWSHOLME TOURS –OPENING TIMES

Every Wednesday May – September: Guided Tours at 11am and 1.30pm

In August: Additional opening and Guided Tours on Tuesdays

Open Bank Holiday Mondays (25th May and 31st August)

Tours and tickets can be obtained online or walk-ins welcome on the day.

CART SHED CAFÉ & GARDENS

Open Wednesday to Saturday until the end of September

seasonal dishes and ever-changing specials.

Booking ahead is recommended!

Browsholme’s calendar is also packed with events, with pizza nights returning in May bringing a lively twist to this historic setting.

“Pizza nights are particularly popular,” says Eleanor Parker. “The perfect opportunity to get together with friends and enjoy a drink and a pizza in beautiful surroundings.”

A recent Bridgerton-themed musical evening proved popular while a Taylor Swiftthemed evening is planned for October.

With a new bus service now stopping at the visitor entrance, accessing this hidden gem has never been easier. n

For more information about Browsholme Hall and forthcoming events please visit the website.

Browsholme Hall

Clitheroe Road, Cow Ark

Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160

hello@browsholme.com browsholme.com

@browsholme

Photography: Nick English

EDUCATION NEWS

NEW WHOLE SCHOOL FOUNDATION HEAD

Kirkham Grammar School has appointed Mrs Kirsten O’Donoghue as its new Whole School Foundation Head (2-18). Mrs O’Donoghue served as Interim Foundation Head since November 2025, brings exceptional experience, continuity and vision to the role. Her connection spans more than three decades – as a pupil from the age of 10, an academic scholar, parent and senior leader within the Foundation. She said: “Kirkham Grammar School has shaped my life in the fullest sense – I feel both honoured and privileged to lead the school into its next chapter.”

AWARD-WINNING SUCCESS

Westholme students celebrated national success after winning the Andrew Lloyd Webber Starlight Express Schools’ Competition, earning the opportunity to perform on a London stage. In celebration of World Theatre Day 2026, 30 students travelled to the West End, watching the Olivier Award-winning production before performing live themselves. Entries from schools nationwide were judged by West End cast members and Young Voices, with Westholme’s performance standing out. Students also met Gavin Adams, who plays Rusty, making the experience even more memorable. This unforgettable opportunity highlights the strength of Performing Arts at Westholme and left students inspired after their West End debut.

NEW HEAD

William Doherty will take up the role of Head of Stonyhurst this May, joining from Xavier College Melbourne where he has been Principal since 2018. With over 30 years’ experience in Jesuit education, including earlier leadership roles in Sydney, he brings significant international expertise. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Stonyhurst, as the school continues to build on its strong academic record and global outlook.

NEW HOME LEARNING HUB

A new community-based learning centre in Fulwood, Preston, designed for homeeducated children aged 8–16 has opened. Founded by Gemma Mills and inspired by her son’s struggles with schooling, Lancashire Wildflowers Learning Hub is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, focusing on emotional wellbeing, social development and personalised education. Offering outdoor learning, creative activities and life skills such as cooking and teamwork. Children are encouraged to learn at their own pace in a supportive environment, with sessions to build confidence and friendships whilst staff provide individual guidance.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AND NURSERY STRIKES GOLD

Ashbridge Independent School and Nursery has once again been awarded the prestigious Gold Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Mark, recognising its outstanding commitment to high-quality education beyond the classroom. The award celebrates the school’s strong understanding of the value of outdoor learning and its dedication to delivering well-planned, engaging and impactful experiences that enhance pupils’ learning and wellbeing. Achieving Gold places Ashbridge among a select group of schools nationally recognised for excellence, innovation and ambition in taking learning beyond traditional classroom walls.

NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT FOR COACH

Westholme is celebrating a landmark sporting achievement after coach, Charlie Jackson, was named the Inaugural National ISFA Educator of the Year (North Region) 2026. Presented by the Independent Schools Football Association, the award recognises outstanding contribution to football development within independent schools. Charlie, recognised in the ‘Growing Football in a Prep School’ category, becomes the first-ever recipient, setting a national benchmark for excellence. His forwardthinking programme at Westholme supports pupils from Reception to Sixth Form, developing confidence, resilience and technical ability.

Reception Places Available September 2026 Set

ARTISTIC EVOLUTION

A transformative new Art and Design Centre at Stonyhurst is redefining creative education, combining cutting-edge facilities and access to the school’s historical collections to inspire pupils across artistic and technical disciplines

Opened in September 2025, Stonyhurst’s new Art and Design Centre represents a bold and timely investment in creative education. At a point when access to subjects such as Fashion and Textiles is narrowing across the region, the College has expanded its provision, creating a fully resourced, specialist environment that brings together Fine Art, Photography, Fashion and Textiles and Design and Technology all within a newly designed, repurposed area of the school.

The result is a light, open and inspirational space that reflects both the College’s historic foundations and its forward-thinking approach. By removing old panelling and opening the layout, the former art department has been transformed into a bright, airy hub, with dedicated areas for each discipline. Upstairs, a space known as the attic room provides Higher Line (Sixth Form) pupils studying A level and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses with a dedicated studio-style environment. “This is where they have their own space and workstations, it reflects a professional art studio,” explains

Head of Art Martin Harrison.

Mr Harrison brings a global perspective to his role, having worked as an art teacher and Head of Department in English-speaking schools across the world, including China, Beijing, Moscow and Abu Dhabi. That international experience is reflected in the ambition and outlook of the new centre, which is already attracting pupils from local, national and international schools.

“We have pupils coming from all over the world just because of their interest in art and

design,” he says. “The new centre is having a tangible impact – there is a real buzz about it throughout the College.”

At the heart of the department is a commitment to offering both artistic and technical pathways. Pupils move seamlessly between traditional practices and cutting-edge processes, supported by high-tech equipment including laser cutters, 3D printers and digital printers. In the Design and Technology department, these tools have already been used to produce intricate Christmas decorations, combining precisely cut plywood with individually designed textiles.

THIS

IS WHERE THEY HAVE THEIR OWN SPACE AND WORKSTATIONS

–IT VERY MUCH REFLECTS A PROFESSIONAL ART STUDIO

Photography is equally well resourced, with professional-level digital cameras, videography equipment and an A1 printer allowing pupils to produce large scale work. Across the department, five specialist teachers support pupils at every stage, ensuring a balance between technical skill and personal creative expression.

Art clinics run every evening until 6pm, covering photography, textiles, painting and sculpture. “Pupils can come back into the department as it’s always open,” says

Mr Harrison. “They can work while listening to music. It becomes a very social space.”

This accessibility has helped foster a strong sense of community and enthusiasm: “The engagement of staff and pupils has been fantastic,” he adds.

The centre also reflects Stonyhurst’s wider STEAM approach, where creativity sits alongside science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Design and Technology plays a key role in linking creative thinking with materials, engineering and innovation, equipping pupils with skills increasingly in demand across modern creative and technical industries.

A defining feature of this Stonyhurst experience is access to its Museum and Historic Collections, which are actively integrated into the creative curriculum. Working closely with curator Jan Graffius, pupils draw inspiration from rare artefacts, manuscripts and textiles. This ‘history

in their hands’ approach encourages them to connect past craftsmanship with contemporary practice.

Recent projects have included a study of gargoyles inspired by the Waterton Collection and a stained glass project that combined mathematical principles with artistic design. “This brought together maths and art, disciplines often seen as opposite ends of the spectrum, and gave pupils a deeper understanding of the architecture and history behind stained glass,” Mr Harrison explains.

During a printmaking project, pupils also discovered an extraordinary resource: “To our surprise, we discovered that the museum has 100 prints by Albrecht Dürer,” he recalls. “To have a historic collection of this magnitude within the college is just so amazing.” The Dürer collection at Stonyhurst is the second largest private collection in the UK, surpassed only by the Royal Collection.

The department’s exhibition programme

is another key strength. The former art space has been restored to include a glass-fronted viewing area where work is displayed and regularly updated. “When it’s time to refresh the exhibition of work, pupils often gather outside, eager to see what’s new. It’s really exciting – everyone is just so impressed,” says Mr Harrison.

WE HAVE PUPILS COMING FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD JUST BECAUSE OF THEIR INTEREST IN ART AND DESIGN

The new centre will be showcased at the Great Academies event at the end of May, the College’s annual celebration of pupil achievement, where pupils will exhibit International Baccalaureate, A level and Syntax (Year 11) work for parents and visitors. Looking ahead, the department is exploring virtual exhibitions to connect with the wider Stonyhurst community, including its sister

school in Malaysia. Collaborations with professional artists continue to enrich the curriculum, while a major partnership with the award-winning design company Joseph Joseph, founded by Stonyhurst alumni, offers the potential for future apprenticeships and pathways into creative industries.

“As a department we are always looking at how we can develop further,” says Mr Harrison. “We are beginning to see the impact of this work. It is a ripple effect, showing just how much more is possible.” n

Stonyhurst Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

stonyhurst.ac.uk

ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

AWARD WINNING

award winnin

Real football momentum

Sport at Westholme is not just thriving, it is reaching new heights. With national recognition, exceptional individual achievements and a culture built on ambition, sport is firmly on the rise across every age group.

At the heart of Westholme’s sporting success lies a commitment to developing not only talented athletes, but confident and resilient young people who carry the values of sport into every aspect of their lives.

This year marks a landmark moment for Westholme as football coach, Charlie Jackson, was named the Inaugural National ISFA Educator of the Year (North Region), 2026 Presented by the Independent Schools’ Football Association, this prestigious award recognises outstanding contribution to the growth of football within the independent sector As the very first recipient of this accolade, Charlie has set a national benchmark for excellence within the independent sector.

His work alongside the Sport Department at Westholme has transformed the football programme into one defined by technical excellence and long-term player development. From Pre-Prep through to Sixth Form, pupils benefit from a clear and structured pathway

The outcomes for Westholme pupils are abundantly clear as pupils reach new heights. Seth and Finn, both in Year 8, have earned selection for the ISFA National Team, while Elijah, also in Year 8, has been named as a reserve. This remarkable achievement places them among the very best young players in the country and reflects both their individual dedication and the strength of the Westholme programme that supports them

“I am really excited to be selected for the ISFA National Team Football is my passion, and I’m proud to represent my school,” said Finn

“ THE SPORTS PROGRAMME BALANCES ACADEMIC STUDY WITH HIGH LEVEL PHYSICAL TRAINING, ENSURING PUPIL GROW BOTH INTELLECTUALLY AND ATHLEICALLY ”

Within the football programme, nine students have secured academy contracts with professional clubs including Blackburn Rovers, Burnley and Preston North End, while four were selected to represent the Northwest U13 ISFA squad, with national trials on the horizon The U12 and U13 teams’ progression to the Blackburn with Darwen Cup Finals in May further highlights the depth of talent emerging through the programme.

g westholmeWESTHOLME

sports schol ars shine

This is not the only programme to gain recognition. Westholme’s Sports Scholarship programme has also been nominated for a national Sports award at the Education Business Awards. Introduced just two years ago and led by ex-England hockey player Miss A De Miranda, the programme has already made a significant impact and is now receiving national recognition.

Designed to create a nurturing environment where students can thrive both academically and athletically, Westholme’s Sports Scholarship programme supports scholars through a structured mentoring approach Each scholar is paired with a mentor and meets once a term to set short-term goals focused on four key aspects of sports performance, alongside informal meetings whenever additional support is needed

The sports programme has also been enhanced by an inspiring line-up of guest speakers who have shared their experiences with both the whole School and sports scholars through dedicated workshops These have included Olympic swimming champion James Guy, Loughborough Lightning captain and England netballer Natalie Panagarry, GB basketball player Kofi Josephs, Paralympian and former Westholme pupil Mark Tompsett and international football referee, Matt Messias

“ STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CHALLENGE THEMSELVES, WORK COLLABORATIVELY AND DEVLOP A STRONG SENSE OF COMMITMENT AND PRIDE ”

Mr Paul Taylor, Principal at Westholme School states: “We believe that sport develops far more than physical ability It builds resilience, teamwork, leadership and selfdiscipline, qualities that are essential for success in today’s fast-changing world Through a broad and inclusive programme, students are encouraged to challenge themselves, work collaboratively and develop a strong sense of commitment and pride.

“In line with our innovative 21 Century Curriculum, sport supports wellbeing, helping students to manage pressure, maintain balance and develop confidence. At Westholme, we see sport as a vital part of preparing young people not only to achieve academically, but to thrive as healthy, capable and well-rounded individuals ” st

The strength of Westholme’s sporting provision is evident in the outstanding achievements that students have made across the School

At Westholme success spans every discipline Netball has enjoyed a remarkable year, with the U14 squad remaining undefeated throughout the season and winning the Sisters n Sport Tier 2 competition. Multiple students have achieved district titles, county selections and placements in elite academies such as Manchester Thunder and Leeds Rhinos demonstrating the programme ’ s continued strength

Hockey has also delivered exceptional results, with both U14 and U16 teams crowned Lancashire champions before progressing to regional finals. Thirteen pupils earned county selection, the highest number in recent years, while others were invited into talent academies designed to prepare athletes for national competition Supported by expert coaching and strong partnerships with Clitheroe Blackburn Northern Hockey Club, hockey at Westholme continues to flourish

These sporting successes are complemented by a wide range of individual achievements across multiple disciplines, including mounted games, karting, golf, triathlon, tennis and many more, all performed at the highest level. A standout example is Millie in Year 11, who has recently been selected for the British Showjumping’s Junior Squad Youth Team and will travel to Compiègne, France, to compete in April

What truly sets Westholme apart is its team of highly qualified teachers and specialist coaches, who deliver a dynamic sporting programme while supporting each athlete’s individual development. This programme balances academic study with highlevel physical training, ensuring pupils grow both intellectually and athletically

Sport isn’t simply part of school life, it is a driving force behind it Westholme is shaping the next generation of athletes, leaders and team players

Westholme School Meins Road

Blackburn BB2 6QU 01254 506070

westholmeschool com

WHERE LEARNING COMES ALIVE

Set within the rolling Lancashire countryside in Hutton, Ashbridge Independent School offers a distinctive educational experience that blends strong academic outcomes with a deeply rooted commitment to outdoor learning

For families seeking more than a traditional classroom‑only approach, Ashbridge provides an environment where children are nurtured, challenged and inspired in equal measure.

Outdoor learning is not an optional extra at Ashbridge – it is central to the school’s identity. From forest school sessions and nature‑based exploration to gardening, animal care and hands‑on environmental learning, pupils are encouraged to engage with the world around them every day. Children tend to plants, grow fruit and vegetables, care for animals such as guinea pigs and explore the school’s on‑site aviary. These experiences help build responsibility, curiosity and confidence, while supporting learning in meaningful, real‑life contexts. Alongside this, Ashbridge offers outstanding sporting facilities, including

a 3G pitch and extensive grounds where pupils take part in cricket, football and a wide range of physical activities. Sport and outdoor time play a vital role in supporting wellbeing, teamwork and resilience –qualities that strongly complement the school’s academic aims.

OUTDOOR LEARNING IS NOT AN OPTIONAL EXTRA AT ASHBRIDGE –IT IS CENTRAL TO THE SCHOOL’S IDENTITY

Crucially, this rich outdoor provision exists alongside a bespoke curriculum and high academic standards. Ashbridge is proud of the number of feeder schools its pupils progress to, reflecting consistently strong academic results. Teachers use a variety of innovative teaching approaches within the classroom, recognising that children learn best in different ways. The result is an education that feels personalised, engaging and effective.

Class sizes are optimal with a whole school number of approximately 140 pupils, allowing staff to truly know each child and support them individually. This close‑knit structure creates a calm, supportive atmosphere where

pupils feel safe to ask questions, take risks in their learning and grow in confidence. Families are drawn from within roughly a 15–20 mile radius, and demand for places is high, reflecting Ashbridge’s reputation and competitive admissions.

What truly sets Ashbridge apart is the balance it strikes. Children are academically challenged while still being given space to explore, move and learn through experience. Emotional development, independence and character are valued just as highly as grades.

In a world where education can feel increasingly pressured, Ashbridge Independent School offers something refreshingly holistic. It is a place where learning feels alive – grounded in nature, enriched by experience and driven by a genuine belief that children flourish when education nurtures the whole child. n

Ashbridge Independent School and Nursery Lindle Lane, Hutton, Preston PR4 4AQ 01772 619900

school.office@ashbridgeschool.co.uk nursery@ashbridgeschool.co.uk

ashbridge_school_preston

WHERE CHARACTER TAKES SHAPE

We

meet with Mrs Kirsten O’Donoghue, who is leading the next generation at Kirkham Grammar School

Your appointment as Whole School Foundation Head marks a significant moment for Kirkham Grammar School. What does this role mean to you personally?

Kirkham Grammar School has shaped my life in the fullest sense. I joined as a pupil at the age of 10 and was awarded an academic scholarship for Senior School. Now my own children are part of this community. To be entrusted with leading the Junior and Senior school is both an honour and a responsibility I feel very deeply. I understand what KGS gives to its pupils – not just academically, but in terms of confidence, belonging and identity. I am incredibly proud to now guide its next chapter.

You’ve spoken previously about education being about more than academic success. What does that look like in practice at KGS?

Academic success is, of course, important –but it is only one part of a much bigger picture. At KGS, we are committed to developing

the whole person. That means nurturing character: resilience, kindness, confidence and a sense of purpose. We want our pupils to leave not only with excellent results, but with a strong understanding of who they are and what they stand for.

The theme of ‘developing character’ sits at the heart of your vision. How do you embed that across a whole school?

It begins with culture. Every pupil should feel known, valued and respected – that is fundamental. From there, it is about setting clear expectations and modelling them consistently. Kindness, respect, integrity and high standards of behaviour are not optional –they are the foundation of everything we do.

Character is developed through experience as much as through teaching, whether it’s in the classroom, on the sports field or through leadership opportunities.

The KGS Combined Cadet Force is also one of the best in the country and I was deeply involved in the CCF during my years here. The leadership and resilience I learned stayed with me, and later enabled me to serve as an officer in Bedford School CCF. The ability to lead calmly under pressure and work as part of a team are skills I draw on daily in my role today. It’s those everyday moments – how you treat others, how you respond to challenge, how you carry yourself – that shape character over time. You have led significant change at KGS, particularly during your time in the Junior School. How has that influenced your approach as Head?

My time leading the Junior School was incredibly formative. We implemented long-term changes to the curriculum and saw a real shift in achievement, attainment

and importantly, attitudes to learning. When you create an environment where expectations are high, support is strong and pupils feel invested in their own journey, young people will rise to it.

Prior to this appointment, in your role as Interim Head, you made a number of changes. What has been your immediate focus?

My priority has been strengthening both academic and pastoral provision and ensuring we have the right people in place to deliver that vision. I have also been working to reinforce a culture where every child feels supported, challenged and truly understood.

We have expanded our curriculum with new A Level and BTEC subjects, ensuring pupils have access to pathways that reflect both their ambitions and the demands of the modern world. We have also implemented a robust behaviour management programme designed not only to raise standards, but to deepen pupils’ understanding of how they contribute to the wider school community.

Our performing arts provision is another area of real momentum. Under the guidance of our Director of Performing Arts, pupils are benefitting from professional-level training that rivals those of specialist institutions. A recent highlight was our production of Sister Act, which was worthy of any West End stage and a testament to seven months of dedication and teamwork.

KGS has a strong sporting tradition – how do you see sport contributing to character development?

I am deeply committed to the transformative power of sport – both team and individual –during childhood and adolescence. Our heritage in sports is something of which we are incredibly proud. Our U13 and U15 hockey teams recently qualified for the National Hockey Finals and the rugby squad secured a remarkable fourth title at Sedbergh National 10s, winning the 2026 competition.

Heritage sports remain an important part of the school’s identity, but we are expanding our sporting provision to offer a broader range of opportunities, ensuring that every pupil can find something that inspires them.

Physical education is not simply about performance outcomes, it is about participation, commitment and the learning that takes place throughout the journey.

At KGS, we believe that physical education is a curriculum subject that deserves expert teachers – professionals with deep understanding of pedagogy, child development and the needs of pupils from ages two to 18. Investing in qualified teachers is how high standards are maintained and how meaningful, lifelong engagement in physical activity is fostered.

Looking ahead, can you tell us about the Sapphire Standard programme launching in 2026?

The Sapphire Standard is our unique personal development programme which provides an array of opportunities for our pupils’

independent growth beyond the classroom. Moving through levels before ultimately reaching ‘Sapphire Standard’, the engagement of pupils is monitored and celebrated to ensure active participation across the breadth of school life. Through our House system, co-curricular activities and timetabled enrichment sessions, our young people will learn more about the world around them, together with their unique skill set, so that they can leave our school as engaged individuals ready to make a positive difference in the world.

Finally, what do you hope defines a Kirkham Grammar School pupil?

I hope our pupils leave us with a strong sense of who they are and what they stand for. I want them to be kind, respectful, resilient and ambitious – not just for themselves, but for others.

If they are proud of the person they have become and feel ready to take on whatever comes next with confidence and integrity, then we have done our job well. n

Kirkham Grammar School Ribby Road, Kirkham Preston PR4 2BH 01772 684264

kirkhamgrammar.co.uk

‘excellent’ on Trust Pilot with more than 11,000 positive reviews. But for Tom, the story of Hippo isn’t just one of expansion –it’s about knowing when to evolve.

After 16 years of consistent growth, the business underwent a significant restructure last year. It was a move designed not as a correction, but as a strategic reset.

In a sector often defined by relentless pace and fierce competition, Hippo Motor Group and Hippo Leasing has carved out a reputation built on growth, resilience, reinvention and a clear understanding of customer needs, writes Katie Hammond

Founded in 2007 by CEO Tom Preston, Hippo began life in modest surroundings – a small office in Nelson, set up with his father as a silent partner.

What started as a new car leasing operation quickly evolved as Tom spotted an opportunity to expand into used car leasing and finance at a time when the model was still gaining traction.

“Back then, it was about spotting where the market was going,” says Tom. “We started with new cars, but it became clear there was a real gap – and demand – for quality used vehicles on flexible finance.”

Nearly two decades on, that early instinct has paid off. Hippo has grown into a major player in the UK automotive space selling more than 1,000 new and used cars per month, employing around 320 staff and rated

WE STARTED WITH NEW CARS, BUT IT BECAME CLEAR THERE WAS A REAL GAP – AND DEMAND –FOR QUALITY USED VEHICLES ON FLEXIBLE FINANCE

Tom continues: “Press articles often focus on the growth years. But after nearly 20 years, you have to step back and ask, ‘Who are we now and what do our customers really want?’ The restructure was about getting back to basics and focusing on what we’re genuinely good at.”

That meant refining the business to centre on its core strengths – online leasing and its retail sites. Inevitably, it also involved difficult decisions, including a reduction in

headcount. But the results, Tom says, have been immediate: “The first three months of this year have been great. It’s given us clarity – on our customers, on the journey they go through with us and on how we deliver the best possible experience.”

The two brands – Hippo Motor Group for used cars and Hippo Leasing for new and used car leasing – are unique in stocking over 1,000 quality used cars from all manufacturers but are also the biggest new car leasing brokers in the UK, with access to some of the very best new car offers.

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON DOING WHAT WE SAY WE’LL DO – LOOKING AFTER THE CUSTOMER THROUGH THE WHOLE PROCESS. THAT’S A BIG PART OF OUR CULTURE

Tom continues: “Buying a car can be a confusing process and our level of choice really helps us guide the customer to their next dream car without any bias to new, used or any single manufacturer.

“It’s also not just about selling a car. We pride ourselves on doing what we say we’ll do – looking after the customer through the whole process, including aftersales. That’s a big part of our culture.”

That culture, in turn, has been shaped by a leadership team which has grown with the business. Key figures include COO Jordan Dean, who joined two years ago and has already made a significant impact and Commercial Director Rebecca Marsden, who has been with Hippo for 17 years, playing a central role in sourcing competitive new car deals.

Operations Director Craig Robinson is another long-standing member of the team, having spent 15 years rising through the ranks within the business. His deep understanding of vehicle preparation and aftersales reflects the hands-on expertise that underpins the whole operation.

For Tom himself, the journey has been both professional and personal. Based in Blackburn, with regular time spent at the group’s Peterborough site, he bought out his father’s stake in the business around 12 years ago and has since led Hippo through its most significant phases of growth.

Family remains close to the heart of the story. Tom’s partner Suzanne works within the business in accounts and problem-solving, while daughters Georgia, 14, and Ellie, 10, are already showing an

interest in what the future might hold.

“They’re definitely aware of what we do,” he says with a smile. “Whether they’ll come into the business – who knows? But it’s nice to think it could be something they’re part of one day.”

Looking ahead, 2026 marks the beginning of what Tom describes as a ‘new era’ for Hippo.

“This year is about rebuilding and reinforcing who we are,” he explains. “We’ve had the growth, we’ve had the reset –now it’s about moving forward in a more focused way.”

It’s a measured approach that reflects both experience and confidence. In an industry where scale can sometimes come

at the expense of service, Hippo’s emphasis on balancing the two appears to be striking a chord.

Tom reflects: “We’ve learned a lot over the last 19 years. The key is understanding who you are and sticking to it. For us, that’s about great value, great service and delivering on our promises.” n

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: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

NEW POTTERY PAINTING STUDIO

A brand-new pottery painting experience has opened at Barton Grange Garden Centre. The Potting Shed Studio is designed for all ages and abilities to relax, have fun and get creative. Customers can paint the piece of pottery of their choice before it is fired in the kiln to create a keepsake to treasure. Not only is pottery painting a creative activity, but it’s also praised for its therapeutic benefits, promoting mindfulness and calm. Blue Diamond Group Events Manager Rebecca Gurnett says: “Our new Potting Shed Studio is the perfect venue for all occasions, from birthday celebrations and family times, to girls’ nights and first dates. Booking costs just £1 and then you pay for what you paint with the booking fee deducted from the pottery purchase.”

NEW CEO

Preston North End Community and Education Trust have appointed John Hartley as its new Chief Executive Officer. Marking an exciting new chapter for the organisation and the communities it serves, John brings a wealth of experience to the Trust from his time spent at Fleetwood Town Community Trust, most recently in the position of CEO. Over the course of his career to date, John has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving opportunities for young people and strengthening local communities and has done so through driving strategic partnerships. Speaking on his appointment, John said: “I am honoured to join Preston North End Community and Education Trust and to have the opportunity to build on its outstanding work.”

LANCASHIRE BAKERY WINS NATIONAL AWARDS

The team behind Lancashire-based Outpost Bakery, which operates at The Green, Eccleston, has won several prestigious awards for its innovative breads at the 13th edition of Britain’s Best Loaf, marking its first time entering the competition. The bakery secured multiple accolades from more than 200 entries, including a Silver Medal for its Aughton Sourdough Loaf in the Seeded Sourdough category and a Bronze Medal for its Sourdough Baguette in the International category. Winners were announced at the UK Food & Drink Shows at the NEC Birmingham. Felix Stenhouse, co-owner and co-founder of Outpost Bakery, said: “Given that we are just over one year old, to be recognised among some of the biggest names in British baking is a real honour.”

NEW CHIEF CUSTOMER OFFICER

Marsden Building Society has announced the appointment of Julia Brook as its new Chief Customer Officer. Based at the Marsden’s Principal Office in Nelson, Julia brings extensive leadership experience across financial services, having led customer, distribution, operations and transformation teams throughout her career. As Chief Customer Officer, Julia will oversee the Society’s end - to - end customer and intermediary proposition, with responsibility for customer facing channels, digital, IT, change, marketing, communications and product and service development. Julia said: “The Marsden has strong foundations and a clear sense of purpose, and I’m excited to work with our colleagues to help build on that as we continue to evolve our services and capabilities to meet the changing needs of our customers and the communities we serve.”

LUMO OPENS NEW PRESTON RAIL BASE

A new rail base in Preston has officially opened in a landmark moment for the city, creating around 100 jobs as Lumo prepares to launch direct Scotland-London trains. Lumo will introduce a brandnew direct rail service linking Stirling and London Euston, expanding Scotland’s long-distance rail network and bringing affordable, open-access travel to more communities along the route. The new London-Stirling service will operate four daily return services, with an additional fifth return service between Preston and London. Designed around simplicity, value and comfort, the route builds on Lumo’s reputation for low fares and customer-first travel creating new choices for business, leisure and visiting friends and family.

YOUR BUSINESS: YOUR IDENTITY

When your job becomes your identity what happens when it’s time to retire? The experts at Raymond James, Ribble Valley examine how you can successfully make this life-changing transition

For many business owners, work isn’t just something they do – it’s who they are. Social interaction with strangers reinforces the belief, with “What do you do?” or “What business are you in?” being easy conversation starters. You don’t just have a job. You are the owner, the founder, the driving force, the problem solver.

Over time, it can become difficult to separate your identity from your role – until the job ends, changes, or more usually for Raymond James Ribble Valley’s clients, the business owner chooses to exit. The entrepreneur can then be left wondering, “Who am I without it?”

These thoughts were crystalised after a post-budget seminar hosted by the Raymond James team. Responding to a request for feedback on the event, one client wrote: “You have asked about other subjects people might find useful. My suggestion is around planning for retirement or selling a business from an emotional and mental health perspective. It is a rollercoaster,

as life suddenly changes and it can take a bit of adjustment.”

What is the right way to financially support your family with your newly acquired wealth? Will it be easy to adjust to spending your wealth?

PLANNING FOR RETIREMENT FROM AN EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE –IT IS A ROLLERCOASTER, AS LIFE SUDDENLY CHANGES AND IT CAN TAKE A BIT OF ADJUSTMENT

How will you fill your time?

How do you cope with not feeling needed by the business and the staff every day?

Will you lack purpose?

What will your relationship at home look like now you are there 24/7? If your partner is still working, will you or they feel guilty about that?”

If that hits uncomfortably close to home, you’re not alone. In a culture that rewards productivity and external validation, it’s easy to let work become the main character in your identity story. But when your sense of self gets wrapped too tightly around your career, it can be difficult to contemplate life after work.

Exiting a business presents both significant opportunities and complex challenges. While achieving the best possible deal and exit strategy is important, it is only part of the picture. What is often overlooked is the day after the business is sold. The sale process is demanding, consuming time, energy and focus, all while the business itself still needs to be successfully run right up to completion. As a result, little space is left to consider what comes next.

The team at Raymond James, Ribble Valley has extensive experience supporting business owners through one of the most significant transitions of their lives. The advice goes far beyond the mechanics of the sale itself, focusing on the wider picture and crucially, planning for the next chapter. We work with clients to consider how their wealth will support their future lifestyle, ambitions, family needs and sense of purpose once they step away from the business.

These discussions are often as substantial and arguably far more important, than securing the best deal or structuring the sale, as they shape life after the business has been sold. For this reason, these subjects are best explored and addressed well in advance of the eventual exit.

If you are planning to exit your business, please do not hesitate to contact the Longridge-based team for a free, initial consultation. n

Risk warning: This article is intended for informational purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person. With investment, your capital is at risk. Tax treatment depends on an investor’s individual circumstances and may be subject to change.

Raymond James Investment Services Limited 8 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3JA 01772 780300

ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

THE ROAD AHEAD

From digital licences to tougher enforcement and cleaner air rules, this year is shaping up to be a year of major change for motorists across the UK

If driving already feels expensive, complicated and heavily monitored, 2026 is unlikely to ease the pressure. A wave of new rules, consultations and technology updates is set to change how we drive, learn and even pay for using the roads.

One of the biggest talking points is the arrival of digital driving licences. Physical cards are staying, for now, but motorists will increasingly be encouraged to manage licence details online, including address changes, endorsements and entitlements. The government says the move will make things quicker and more secure, although many drivers may still prefer the reassurance of keeping the familiar plastic version tucked safely in their wallet. The changes are part of a wider push towards digitising public services and reducing paperwork.

Learner drivers are also facing significant updates. New proposals include a minimum learning period before taking a practical test,

along with stricter booking and cancellation rules aimed at reducing long waiting lists and no-shows. Driving instructors have welcomed efforts to tackle the backlog but some learners worry the extra requirements could make learning to drive even more expensive. Theory tests are also expected to include more real-world safety awareness, including questions around CPR, emergency response and dealing with roadside incidents.

FOR EVERYDAY MOTORISTS, ENFORCEMENT IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY DIGITAL

For everyday motorists, enforcement is becoming increasingly digital too. Cameras are now capable of detecting everything from speeding and seatbelt offences to mobile phone use. Holding a phone while driving remains illegal and carries a £200 fine plus six penalty points, a punishment that can be especially harsh for new drivers who can lose their licence within the first two years. Police forces are also trialling AI-assisted roadside cameras which can automatically identify dangerous driving behaviour in real time.

Clean air and emissions rules are

tightening as well. Euro 7 standards begin rolling out later in 2026, bringing stricter emissions requirements for new petrol and diesel vehicles. At the same time, clean air zones and congestion charges continue to expand in major cities, leaving many motorists checking carefully before travelling into urban areas. Electric vehicle owners are not entirely escaping the changes either, with adjustments to EV tax rules and luxury vehicle thresholds also coming into force. As more drivers switch to electric cars, the government is also facing increasing pressure to improve the national charging network.

Meanwhile, self-driving technology is edging closer to reality. The Automated Vehicles Act could allow self-driving vehicles on British roads from 2026, although they will still face rigorous safety standards before widespread use becomes possible. For now, fully autonomous journeys remain limited, but experts believe the technology could eventually transform everything from commuting to delivery services.

There are also wider road safety proposals under discussion, including possible lower drink-drive limits and mandatory eyesight checks for older drivers. None of these changes are designed to catch people out but they do point to a future where driving is more closely regulated, increasingly digital and far more technology-driven than ever before. n

TOMORROW’S ELECTRIC SUV… TODAY

Paul Agnew takes the new BMW iX3 for a test drive and declares the experience a total joy.

Photography: Peter Austin

Some cars don’t just follow the future – they define it. The BMW iX3 is one of those cars.

Purpose-built for a new era of motoring, it showcases just how far electric vehicles have evolved, blending cutting edge technology, everyday usability and unmistakable BMW quality into one striking package.

This is electric driving without compromise –effortless to live with, rewarding to drive and engineered for the demands of modern life.

The BMW iX3 isn’t a glimpse of what’s coming next, it’s the future of electric cars,

available right now – and it’s capable of delivering not 200, 300 or 400 miles of range but a breathtaking 500!

But, trust me dear reader, this isn’t all about range claim. It’s more about BMW producing a vehicle perfectly suited to today’s demanding motor market.

Not sure how good your

Or, to those who chose Latin, French or Spanish instead at high school, ‘new class’.

I prefer ‘spitzenklasse’ – ‘top-of-the-class’.

Bowker – the region’s leaders in all cars bearing this iconic logo, invited me to sample the BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport Pro.

Quite a description, but a car deserving of it.

In Space Silver, a really smart colour and offering great style with 22-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels and a black interior, it was a match made in heaven from the get-go.

IF YOU ARE STILL CHOOSING TO SIT NERVOUSLY ON THE ‘ELECTRIC’ FENCE THEN THE ADVICE IS JUMP OFF AND JUMP INTO THE BMW IX3

You don’t need a key or even a push button to get started – a foot on the brake and an effortless move into ‘drive’ and you’re on your way.

And when you eventually decide, reluctantly, to head back to the dealership and stop, then you just drop into ‘park’ and get out.

Did I highlight that it can cover 500 miles on a single charge with standard wheels? Of course I did, but well worth a second mention.

There is ample luggage capacity of 1,750 litres

Launched in March this year, the BMW iX3 represents a new era of BMW engineering.

German is, but the manufacturers have labelled it ‘neue klass’.

with the rear seats folded down and a further 58 litres beneath the bonnet.

A truly humungous high resolution central display – 17.9-inches no less – in what is termed ‘free-cut’ design, provides every single bit of information, entertainment and gadgetry known to motoring man.

The all-new (and first) BMW Panoramic Vision offers individually configurable content that spans almost the entire width of the windscreen. You can customise widgets for navigation, music, weather and more, ensuring they are clearly visible to all passengers throughout the journey.

IT’S CAPABLE OF DELIVERING NOT 200, 300 OR 400 MILES OF RANGE BUT A BREATHTAKING 500!

Overhead is a panoramic roof and the front seats provide complimentary massages, should you feel the need, while the overall comfort levels are of the highest standard.

The external is excellent too. It’s attractive yet sturdy, it exudes class and gets more than a few nods of approval from fellow motorists –even on a short test drive.

The one notable eye-catching feature is the ‘Iconic Glow’ light-up kidney grille, designed with inspiration taken from the 1960s BMW.

The drive, quiet and smooth, is a total joy.

If you are already an electric car convert, then I defy you not to be further inspired. If you are still choosing to sit nervously on the ‘electric’ fence then the advice is jump off and jump into the BMW iX3.

Take it for a spin and see for yourself.

A massively impressive car and a total gamechanger. n

With thanks to Towneley Hall – the location for the photo shoot.

Channel Way

Preston PR2 2YA 01772 769976

bowkerprestonbmw.co.uk

@BowkerBMW

@bmw_bowker

@bowker-motor-group

@bowker.bmw

Bowker Preston

ALL GOOD THINGS…

The glorious Porsche Macan is exciting, engaging, entertaining and exhilarating, but it’s heading for the chequered flag, writes Paul Agnew.

Photography: Peter Austin

You know what they say about ‘all good things’? Well, it would appear that even the best cars eventually reach the end of the road.

But what exactly constitutes a best car? Ask any good judge and I guarantee that one make and model will feature high on the list.

For there have been few cars in the modern era to rival – let alone challenge – the glorious Porsche Macan.

However, this iconic petrol-powered monster of the motoring world is now entering its final lap. With Porsche transitioning towards an electrified future, production of the Porsche Macan (petrol) is set to end this summer.

Which means only one thing – time is of the essence for anyone wishing to secure

this highly-regarded SUV in its original form.

So, what has made and continues to make, this powertrain such a winner, 12 years after it was launched to global acclaim?

Put the kettle on and your feet up – this could take a while, especially as I bring you details of the GTS variant.

Oh my, the Porsche Macan GTS is some machine, presenting itself in jet black metallic exterior paint with 21-inch GT design wheels in high gloss black.

SO, WHAT HAS MADE AND CONTINUES TO MAKE, THIS POWERTRAIN SUCH A WINNER, 12 YEARS AFTER IT WAS LAUNCHED TO GLOBAL ACCLAIM?

The interior is black too (leather of course) with contrast stitching in crayon and you know from first sitting that you are in the company of a car of significant style and substance.

The Porsche Macan GTS might have entered secondary school in terms of years, but it could still teach the first formers a trick or two.

Like how 0-62mph in 4.3 seconds is thanks to a superb 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo engine.

Like offering a sports exhaust system and sports air suspension and a top speed of 169mph. Yes, you read that correctly –169mph.

But what about a panoramic roof, or power steering or a heated steering wheel?

Well obviously all are there, thank-you very much. How dare you even think about asking the question?

Throw in adaptive sports seats (18-way electric), BOSE surround sound, tinted LED headlights, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors, privacy glass, lane change assist, GTS lettering in just the right places and a luggage compartment volume (with rear seats folded) of 1,503 litres and you can see what all the fuss is still about.

One astute car reviewer called the Macan: “The Porsche of the People, an SUV with the soul and the engineering of a sports car.”

Spot on.

Is it fast and yet family friendly – is it ever?

Do you want or need to go off-road? No problem. This is the perfect car whether you are going on the school run or loading up and heading for the Med on a summer road trip.

But, of course, the true test of any car centres around the driving experience.

In this regard it is an ‘electric’ car – exciting, engaging, entertaining and exhilarating.

Solid – the doors shut with a reassuring thud – yet so light and agile in the way it handles the road, it helps you at every turn.

I could wax lyrical about the capability in terms of both performance and technological prowess, but suffice to say that this is a car of multiple plusses.

This might well be a car en route to the chequered flag, but it remains a thing of genuine beauty and performance. Down the years, many a rival manufacturer has tried to learn and emulate the Porsche Macan.

If you pop down to Porsche Centre Preston to cast an eye over the remaining and available stock, you will discover why few (if any) have come close. n

Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911

porschepreston.co.uk

@PorscheCentrePreston

@Porsche_Preston

@PorschePreston

A SMARTER STANDARD

The fully electric Changan Deepal S07 makes a strong first impression. It has presence, is generously specified and represents great value, writes Tedd Walmsley

At Bowker Motor Group, evolution is never rushed, only refined. The arrival of Changan Automobile introduces a new expression of modern luxury – a smart electric SUV shaped by global innovation, thoughtful design and a clear understanding of how we live and drive today.

I’ve spent the last couple of days with the Changan Deepal S07 and I’ll admit – this was a test drive I approached with curiosity as much as expectation.

After all, Bowker Motor Group isn’t in the habit of getting things wrong. Known to many of my readers for Porsche, BMW and MINI, their decision to introduce Changan

Automobile felt like something worth paying attention to.

First impressions count, and the Deepal S07 makes a strong one.

OVER THE COURSE OF TWO DAYS, THE S07 BECAME VERY EASY TO LIVE WITH. EASY TO DRIVE. EASY TO TRUST. AND, IMPORTANTLY, EASY TO RECOMMEND

It has real presence on the road, clean modern lines, a confident stance and just enough detail to set it apart without feeling

overdesigned. It’s not trying too hard, which I rather like. Parked outside the house, it drew more than a passing glance and not just from me.

Inside is where I spent most of my time and where this car really begins to make sense.

The cabin feels open, calm and thoughtfully put together. There’s a clear influence of something more refined here – I kept coming back to the way the interior flows, almost like a well-designed living space. Materials feel good, the layout is intuitive and nothing feels out of place.

The standout feature, without question, is the 15.6-inch rotating ‘sunflower’ touchscreen. I’ll admit, I thought it might be a gimmick. It isn’t. Over the course of a couple of days, it became one of those features you quickly take for granted, in the best possible way. It simply works, turning subtly towards driver or passenger depending on use.

But of course, a family SUV needs to prove itself beyond the driver’s seat.

So, I did what many of you will relate to –I put it to the real test. A couple of days with the grandchildren in tow.

Rear seat space is generous – genuinely so. Getting children in and out is easy, there’s plenty of legroom and no complaints from the back, which is always a good sign. The boot handled everything we threw at it – bags, bits, the usual collection of ‘just in case’ items that seem to accompany any family outing.

It’s a car that fits around you, rather than the other way round.

On the road, what struck me most was how relaxed it feels. This is not a car that demands attention, it quietly gets on with the job. The ride is smooth, composed and particularly well suited to the kind of mixed driving most of us actually do. Around town, it’s effortless. On longer runs, it settles into a calm, easy rhythm.

Being fully electric, the drive is near silent, which only adds to that sense of refinement. With a range of up to 295 miles, powered by an 80kWh battery paired with a 160kW (218PS) rearwheeldrive motor, I found myself not really thinking about charging, which in my experience, is exactly how it should be.

Performance is more than adequate for

everyday driving. It’s responsive when you need it to be, but always measured. Again, it feels well-judged and aligned with how this car is intended to be used.

What did stay with me though, was the sense of value for a starting price of £39,990.

There’s a lot here. And I mean a lot.

Augmented-reality head-up display, a fully digital minimalist cabin design, panoramic glass roof, generous rear seating, 510 -litre boot, adaptive cruise control, lane -keeping assistance, autonomous emergency braking and intelligent parking support to name a few!

I FOUND MYSELF

NOT REALLY THINKING ABOUT CHARGING, WHICH IN MY EXPERIENCE, IS EXACTLY HOW IT SHOULD BE

Technology, safety systems, comfort features – it all feels generously specified, without the need to start adding costly extras. It’s the kind of package that makes you pause and reconsider what you expect at this level.

And perhaps that’s the point.

This isn’t about chasing the obvious competitors. It’s about offering something slightly different. Something that feels current, considered and refreshingly straightforward.

Over the course of two days, the S07

DEEPAL S07 0% APR OFFER

£399 deposit, £399 per month

£3,000 Deposit Contribution

£1,000 Test Drive Voucher

48-month Personal Contract Purchase Agreement

became very easy to live with. Easy to drive. Easy to trust. And, importantly, easy to recommend – particularly for families looking for space, comfort and a sense of modernity without complication.

It also left me with a clear impression of why Bowker has chosen to bring this brand to Lancashire. It fits. It feels like a natural extension of their offering. Something progressive, but grounded in the same commitment to customer experience.

The Changan Deepal S07 may not yet be a familiar name, but after a couple of days behind the wheel, I suspect that may change. If you’re considering a move into an electric SUV, or simply curious to try something new, I would suggest doing exactly what I did.

Take one out. Request your test drive at Bowker Preston Changan and see how easily it fits into your life. n

Bowker Preston Changan

Customs Way

Preston Docklands PR2 2UW 01772 767300

bowkerprestonchangan.co.uk

A NEW ERA FOR CRICKET

The new cricket season is in full swing and the Red Rose of Lancashire is blooming, writes Max Gardner

On the pitch, both the men’s and women’s teams have made encouraging starts in their respective competitions and academy cricket at the club is thriving. Arguably though, the most exciting development of the season so far is the completion of this historic county cricket club’s new stadium at Farington. Situated a few miles south of Preston in the borough of South Ribble, it is now Lancashire Cricket

Club’s second home and is a practical representation of how the club is evolving.

IT SUPPORTS OUR PROFESSIONAL TEAMS WHILE CREATING NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITIES AND YOUNG CRICKETERS ACROSS LANCASHIRE TO ACCESS WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES

Farington is a unique dual-purpose site. It will host professional cricket for both the club’s men’s and women’s teams and be a facility to encourage, and provide for, youth, recreational and grassroots cricket. At the

same time as show-casing top-class county cricket, Farington will have elite training facilities and will become a valuable, lasting asset for the local and wider community.

Lancashire Cricket Club’s interim chair, Dame Sarah Storey, who is Britain’s most decorated Paralympian with 30 medals, 19 of which are gold, describes Farington as: “An exciting step forward.” She said: “It supports our professional teams while creating new opportunities for communities and young cricketers across Lancashire to access world-class facilities.”

The £20m project is a joint venture between Lancashire Cricket Club and Lancashire County Council, with additional funding supplied by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for the site’s

indoor training dome, which will ensure 12 months-a-year training access to all players.

Farington comprises two ovals, one for professional cricket and one for community use. It has a new pavilion building with four changing rooms and fitness facilities. Alongside the indoor training dome there are also outdoor nets. The ground itself has a capacity of 5,000, with each oval having 750 fixed seats in open-air grandstands and there are naturally sloping grass banks for supporters who can enjoy the cricket in the summer sun and bring their own seating. As well as aiming to become a women’s centre for excellence, 750 hours-a-year will be specifically allocated for community use, with an emphasis on developing youth and accommodating disability.

Lancashire Cricket Club’s plan for its new second home is to encourage sustainability through long-term community engagement and inclusivity while also protecting the environment. Situated in a rural location, Farington is easily accessible by train and motorway connections, yet it has been designed to minimise the impact on neighbouring communities, preserving the open nature of the Green Belt with its limited buildings and grandstands.

Construction of the new ground started in November 2023, with Eric Wright Construction and the finished project was handed over to Lancashire Cricket Club in February this year.

Speaking at the handover, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Growth, Brian Moore, explained: “We’ve delivered this with local partners and the investment has been kept mainly in Lancashire. Farington is not just a cricket ground, it’s a place where we will have pride and where there will be participation at all levels of the game.”

Emirates Old Trafford, one of the world cricket’s iconic stadiums, will remain Lancashire Cricket Club’s home and base, as it has been for over 160 years. Farington will be used to alleviate some of the fixture congestion associated with the modern game and particularly a stadium as popular as Old

Trafford. This summer, as always, Emirates Old Trafford will host international cricket, both men and women’s 1st XIs in long and short competitions and Manchester Super Giants will also play their home games in The Hundred competition at Old Trafford.

THE GROUND ITSELF HAS A CAPACITY OF 5,000, WITH EACH OVAL HAVING 750 FIXED SEATS IN OPEN-AIR GRANDSTANDS

Even though Lancashire will continue to play some of its County Championship games at traditional outgrounds throughout the county, Farington is now the club’s official second home and Lancashire are planning to play their first games here as early as July –two games in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup against Kent Spitfires, on Tuesday 28th July, and against Notts Outlaws on Thursday 30th July. And in their 50-over competition, Lancashire’s women take on Surrey on Thursday 3rd September and Durham on Sunday 6th September at the new ground.

Dame Sarah Storey summed up the feeling around the club for both the present and the future when she said: “It’s so exciting and you know that there’s a champion of the future who comes here.” n

KITCHEN IN THE WITH…

Food is never just food. It’s the memories, passion and stories behind the plate. In this series, we sit down with some of the region’s most inspiring chefs – here we talk to Chris Nicholson group head chef for the Seafood Pub Company and head chef at the Farmers Arms, Great Eccleston.

Photography: Michael Porter

On the edge of the Fylde plain, where big skies stretch over quiet lanes and village life still moves at its own steady pace, the Farmers Arms in Great Eccleston feels rooted in its surroundings. It’s the kind of place where muddy boots and good food coexist happily, and where the promise of a proper pint is matched by plates that arrive with care, confidence and a clear sense of purpose. From the outside it reads as a traditional village pub, but step inside and it quickly becomes apparent that something more thoughtful is happening in the kitchen.

At the helm of that ambition is group head chef Chris Nicholson, whose approach blends respect for pub classics with a sharp, modern understanding of flavour and seasonality. Rather than chasing trends, Nicholson focuses on depth, detail and produce-led cooking, shaping menus that feel generous yet considered. It’s a style that suits both the pub and its setting perfectly –honest food served with the kind of warmth that keeps locals coming back and visitors lingering just a little longer.

THE JOURNEY

What first drew you into the world of food and how did you know it was going to be more than just a job for you?

Originally, I wanted to join the army as soon as I left school but was thankfully talked out of it by my parents. It initially was my love of eating that got me started on this path and when the opportunity came around to work in a professional kitchen as part of my work experience at school, I jumped at the chance. At this

point I was introduced to loads of produce I hadn’t seen or tasted before. Not long after I knew this was going to become a lifelong passion.

INSPIRATIONS & INFLUENCES

Who or what has been your greatest culinary inspiration, either inside or outside the kitchen?

I would have to say Anthony Bourdain. When I left my first job as a chef, I was gifted one of his first books called Kitchen Confidential. It definitely opened my eyes into what kitchen life was going to be like going forward. Since reading it, I’ve followed his career and travels around the world closely and learned a lot through it.

IT’S ALL ABOUT GREAT INGREDIENTS, HANDLED SIMPLY, WITH BOLD FLAVOUR AND NO FUSS

SIGNATURE DISH

If you had to choose one dish which truly represents you as a chef, what would it be and why?

I don’t really believe in a single signature dish – it’s more about a signature style. But if I had to choose something that reflects both me and what we do at the Farmers Arms, it would be Lobster Thermidor.

It’s all about great ingredients, handled simply, with bold flavour and no fuss –which allows our guests to enjoy something that feels special, but still relaxed and recognisable.

CULINARY HEROES

Which chef (past or present) would you most love to cook alongside and what would you make together?

I had the pleasure of meeting one of them just before he passed. He was speaking at a dinner around 20 years ago at a hotel where I was Head Chef. The legendary Keith Floyd, who in my opinion, was one of the first and best celebrity chefs. I wouldn’t have minded what we cooked together as you were guaranteed a glass of wine or five while cooking something simple but amazing!

I DON’T REALLY BELIEVE IN A SINGLE SIGNATURE DISH –IT’S MORE ABOUT A SIGNATURE STYLE

KITCHEN WISDOM

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started cooking professionally?

I was trained in kitchens during the 90s and was given plenty of advice that’s stuck with me. The one thing I wish I’d done earlier is travel more.

It broadens your horizons massively – not just in terms of food, but how you approach it. That’s something we really encourage now across our Seafood Pub Company kitchens, travelling and eating out as much as you can locally too – giving chefs the chance to experience different styles and ingredients, then bring those ideas into our kitchens in a way that still feels right for our pubs.

GUILTY PLEASURE

When you’re off duty, what’s the dish, snack or drink you secretly love – no matter how simple?

It would have to be sausage, egg and chips with brown sauce.

It’s what I grew up on and I still love it now. Simple, comforting, no pretence. I try and keep that same thinking in what we do at the Farmers Arms, even with fancier ingredients. An amazing dish or scallops or turbot doesn’t need to be complicated to be an incredible plate of food. n

greatecclestonpub.co.uk

HIDDEN VALLEY GEM

As spring unfolds, this charming Ribble Valley inn offers seasonal flavours, warm hospitality and a countryside escape worth discovering.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Tucked gently into the rolling countryside just outside Clitheroe, The 3 Millstones Inn feels like a discovery you almost want to keep to yourself. Yet this is precisely the kind of place worth sharing, a quietly exceptional, family owned gem that captures the very essence of the Ribble Valley, especially as spring breathes new life into the landscape. Set in the picturesque village of West Bradford, only a few minutes from Clitheroe, the inn’s location defines its charm. Surrounded by open fields, blossoming hedgerows and winding country lanes, it offers a true sense of escape. In May, the setting is particularly special. Longer days, softer light and the first real warmth of the year invite guests to slow down and savour their surroundings. It is the kind of place that rewards those willing to venture just a little further.

Housed within a beautifully preserved Grade II listed former mill, the building carries its history with quiet confidence. Inside, original beams and stonework sit alongside thoughtful, understated touches, creating a space that feels both timeless and welcoming. As the seasons shift, so too does the atmosphere, moving from cosy fires in winter to a lighter, more relaxed feel as spring sunshine filters through the windows.

At the heart of The 3 Millstones is a genuine commitment to seasonal produce and this is where it truly shines at this time of year. The menu evolves in step with the land, celebrating the freshest ingredients the Ribble Valley has to offer. Spring introduces lighter, brighter dishes with vibrant greens,

THE WELCOME IS SINCERE, THE SERVICE ATTENTIVE YET RELAXED AND THERE IS AN EASY FAMILIARITY THAT MAKES GUESTS FEEL INSTANTLY AT HOME

delicate flavours and carefully sourced local ingredients, all prepared with a simplicity that allows quality to speak for itself. Alongside this, thoughtfully curated set menus offer excellent value, from midweek lunches to relaxed evening dining and popular Sunday gatherings.

For those tempted to linger a little longer, The 3 Millstones also offers a compelling

reason to turn a visit into a stay. Their dinner, bed and breakfast package, available midweek, starts from just £99. It combines seasonal dining with a comfortable overnight stay and a freshly prepared breakfast the following morning. For readers travelling from Preston and beyond, it is an inviting opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the Ribble Valley at remarkable value.

This connection to place and seasonality is matched by a strong sense of authenticity. As a family run business, there is a natural warmth here that cannot be replicated. The welcome is sincere, the service attentive yet relaxed and there is an easy familiarity that makes guests feel instantly at home. In a region known for its outstanding food and countryside, The 3 Millstones Inn stands out by staying true to its roots. Honest cooking, a beautiful rural setting and genuine hospitality come together effortlessly, making this hidden valley gem more than worth the journey. n

The 3 Millstones Inn Waddington Road, Clitheroe BB7 4SX 01200 443339

3millstonesinn.co.uk

Photography: Michael Porter, Jo Denison

Working with running coach Steve Abbott has helped me move past a mental barrier with pacing and speed one to one. One thing that stands out is how much mindset affects performance. Learning to stay with that uncomfortable feeling for a little longer has made a real difference.

NUTRITION WITH KELI

Expert Keli Thompson looks at men’s endurance training and why under fuelling might be holding you back

When it comes to endurance training, it’s easy to think the answer is to train harder, run faster and push through. But often, the biggest improvements come from making sure your body is properly fuelled. If you are feeling constantly tired, struggling to recover or hitting a wall mid-run, it may not be a fitness issue. It could simply be that your body needs more support.

Endurance training places a significant demand on your body. It requires energy not just to perform, but also to recover, repair and stay healthy. Many men, particularly

those trying to stay lean, can end up under fuelling without realising it. I get it, it is an easy trap to fall into. But over time, this can show up as lower energy, slower recovery and sessions that feel harder than they should. Often, it is simply your body asking for more fuel.

WORKING WITH RUNNING COACH STEVE ABBOTT HAS HELPED ME MOVE PAST A MENTAL BARRIER WITH PACING AND SPEED

Carbohydrates commonly get a mixed reputation, but for endurance training, they really are essential because they are your body’s primary source of energy. When you are consuming enough, everything feels more manageable and your energy stays steadier. Including simple, easy to digest carbohydrates before or during your runs can make a noticeable difference without over-complicating your routine.

Training is only one part of the process. Recovery is where your body adapts and improves. Ensuring you are consuming both carbohydrates and protein after your sessions helps replenish energy stores and support muscle repair. It does not need to be perfect, just consistent. A simple and quick option is a smoothie with protein powder, a banana or berries, oats or a drizzle of honey and milk or a plant-based alternative.

For fuelling during longer sessions, I have been using SAP Good Energy. It is a simple blend of maple syrup and Himalayan salt that provides steady energy during runs. You can find it at sapgoodenergy.com using my affiliate code KELITHOMPSON for 15 per cent off.

Post training, Nuzest Clean Lean Protein has become part of my routine. It is light, easy to digest and helps take the guesswork out of meeting protein needs. Protein options are available at nuzest.co.uk using affiliate code KELI for 20 per cent off.

Endurance performance is not solely about pushing harder. It is about giving your body what it needs. So, if you want to feel stronger, recover better and enjoy your training more, it may be worth taking a closer look at how you are fuelling. Often, a few small adjustments can make everything else fall into place. n

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com

nutritionwithkeli

Steve_Abbott_Performance_Coach

Leisurely Lunch Escapes AT NORTHCOTE

Turn lunch into an escape: Michelin-star dining, cocktails, countryside exploring, relaxed supper, peaceful stay, and award-winning breakfast. Included in your stay:

-Four-course seasonal lunch for two upon your arrival, 7 days a week*

-Overnight accommodation in your chosen room or suite category

-Northcote’s cook-to-order breakfast the following morning

from £183 per person*

*Based on two people sharing a Classic Room. Available 7 days a week, excluding Bank Holidays.

At Northcote, Lisa Goodwin-Allen brings the seasons to life through thoughtfully crafted lunches, each dish showcasing the finest ingredients at their peak. Her instinctive, produceled approach and signature creativity define the experience, offering a true reflection of her style and making every lunch a personal expression of her culinary vision.

CRAVE THE FLAVOUR

For Karen Riley, food has never just been about flavour. It has been about connection, resilience and rediscovering purpose, writes Ali Gudgeon

Before launching Crave Marinades, Karen’s life looked very different. She worked in a secure role with Lancashire Police, but following a particularly difficult period personally, she realised she needed change – something that reignited her sense of self and gave her direction again.

Cooking became that outlet.

“I’d always loved cooking,” Karen explains, “and during that time it became my escape.” She began experimenting with a marinade, cooking meals for colleagues and friends.

The response was immediate – and enthusiastic. People kept asking for more. What began as a way to cope quietly turned into the first spark of something much bigger.

LISTENING TO CUSTOMERS, WATCHING HOW THEY COOK AT HOME, HEARING WHAT THEY ENJOY –THAT’S WHERE NEW IDEAS COME FROM

Taking a leap of faith, Karen left behind job security and opened her own sandwich shop in Kirkham. That venture soon evolved into an outside catering business, where over the next seven years she honed her craft in some of the most challenging catering environments imaginable.

“I was constantly cooking for large numbers of people with completely different dietary

requirements – gluten-free, vegan, allergies,” she says. “That’s where my marinade became essential. It was the one thing I could trust to deliver flavour every single time, regardless of who I was cooking for.”

Crave Marinades was born from that experience – a desire to make cooking easier, more inclusive and uncompromising on taste.

Like many great food stories, Crave’s origin includes a happy accident. While running her sandwich shop, one of Karen’s staff forgot to add oil to a batch of marinade and instead of disaster, something unexpected happened.

“It tasted better,” Karen laughs. “That mistake completely changed everything.”

From that moment, she refined the recipe relentlessly, testing it across dishes and sharing it wherever she cooked. Another early influence came even closer to home –a spicy chicken dish made by her next-door neighbour that stayed with her long after

the plates were cleared. Karen began recreating it, adapting it, shaping it into something uniquely her own.

When customers started requesting her marinade not just at events but to take home and use themselves, Karen knew this wasn’t just a personal passion – it was a product people genuinely wanted.

Inspiration for Crave Marinades comes from everyday life rather than any one cuisine. Karen’s Sardinian heritage plays its part – particularly the island’s deep-rooted belief in gathering together, sharing food and conversation but her true inspiration lies in people.

“Listening to customers, watching how they cook at home, hearing what they enjoy –that’s where new ideas come from,” she says.

ONE SIMPLE MARINADE THAT WORKS ACROSS DIETS, AT SCALE, WITHOUT LOSING FLAVOUR – THAT’S WHAT CRAVE MARINADES WAS CREATED FOR

Her recipes are designed to be versatile, adaptable and approachable. Whether someone is cooking meat, fish, vegetables or plant-based dishes, Crave Marinades offers the same depth of flavour without the need for multiple sauces or seasonings.

That versatility has been rigorously tested. Karen once explored having her marinade commercially replicated by a well-known packet mix company. After multiple attempts, she walked away.

“They couldn’t get the flavour right,” she says simply. “That confirmed for me that I will never compromise on taste.”

Crave Marinades has grown organically –built on face-to-face conversations, taste events and word of mouth. Karen personally attends markets, farm shops and live cooking demonstrations, letting customers try the food before they bought it.

“The flavour speaks for itself,” she says.

Local partnerships have been key, from Lawrence Hunt Spar stores to Barton Grange, Bents Garden & Home and Holme Farm Dairies. Prestonians, in particular, have played a central role in Crave’s success.

“Preston isn’t just where the business is based – it’s where everything began,” Karen says. “The community support has been incredible.”

That grassroots growth has paid off. Crave Marinades has now sold over 27,000 pouches and earned 10 major food awards, including Great Taste Awards and Great British Food

Awards, alongside glowing praise from industry figures such as Ken Hom OBE and John Williams.

As summer arrives, Crave Marinades comes into its own. For Karen, a great marinade is essential BBQ kit. “It does the hard work,” she says. “It adds flavour, keeps food juicy and makes cooking effortless – especially when you’re feeding a crowd.”

Her go-to BBQ dishes include marinated chicken thighs, salmon fillets, vegetable skewers, prawns, halloumi and loaded flatbreads – all lightly coated and cooked over the grill for maximum impact with minimal fuss.

For a last-minute BBQ, Karen swears by chicken skewers tossed in Crave Marinade with peppers and red onion, grilled and finished with a drizzle of honey. “It looks impressive, tastes incredible and works for almost everyone.”

The future for Crave Marinades is ambitious but grounded. Karen’s next focus is scaling into catering and wholesale, supplying contract caterers, hospitals, schools and airlines –spaces she understands intimately.

“One simple marinade that works across diets, at scale, without losing flavour –that’s what Crave Marinades was created for,” she says.

Through it all, Karen remains motivated by the same thing that started her journey –seeing people enjoy food she created and cooking with confidence. From a home kitchen to award-winning shelves, Crave Marinades is more than a product – it’s a story of resilience, community and the power of flavour to bring people together.

And this summer, it might just be the secret ingredient at your BBQ. n

A JUNE TO REMEMBER

There are months you simply have to be at The Three Fishes and June 2026 is one of them

Nigel Haworth, Lancashire’s most celebrated chef is marking 50 years in the culinary world in 2026. And what a way to celebrate. This June, he has curated a month of extraordinary events that bring together legendary culinary talent, the finest English wines and the warm, convivial spirit that has made The Three Fishes one of the north’s most beloved dining destinations.

10th-12th JUNE: CHEF KEN HOM CBE

The centrepiece of Nigel’s anniversary celebrations is the arrival of his friend and culinary hero, the legendary Ken Hom CBE, the man who changed how Britain cooks Chinese food. Across three extraordinary days, Ken joins Nigel to present uniquely curated tasting dinners, each a love letter to a defining chapter of Ken’s remarkable 40-year career.

WEDNESDAY 10th JUNE:

Chinese Techniques & Tradition honours Ken’s landmark BBC series that became a cultural phenomenon.

COMPETITION TIME

THURSDAY 11th JUNE:

East Meets West celebrates the bold fusion era that influenced a generation of chefs.

FRIDAY 12th JUNE:

Exploring China & My Stir-Fried Life draws on Ken’s deeply personal memoir for an evening of extraordinary warmth and flavour.

On Wednesday and Friday lunchtimes, Ken hosts two intimate book signings, sit with the man himself over freshly prepared dim sum, enjoy a personal Q&A and leave with a signed copy of My Stir-Fried Life or The Complete Chinese Cookbook. These are unhurried, personal occasions with one of the great culinary storytellers of our time.

WIN TWO TICKETS for the intimate lunchtime Ken Hom Book signing on Wednesday 10th June.

The winners will enjoy freshly prepared dim sum and the rare privilege of sitting down with Ken for an intimate Q&A session, before receiving a personally signed copy of My Stir-Fried Life or The Complete Chinese Cookbook. A moment to connect with the man behind the legend and a keepsake to treasure long after the festival ends.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Intimate Q&A with Ken Hom CBE for two people

• Freshly prepared dim sum lunch

• A personally signed book of your choice

For your chance to win this great prize, simply go to the website and fill in your details: thethreefishes.co.uk/ken-hom/ GOOD LUCK!

Terms & Conditions

The promotion is open to GB residents aged 18 years or over. Subject to availability. One book per couple (additional books can be purchased).

The closing date for receipt of entries is 1st June 2026. Promoter: The Three Fishes, Mitton, Clitheroe, BB7 9PQ

Full Terms & Conditions can be found at: thethreefishes.co.uk

A CELEBRATION OF ENGLISH WINES

19th, 25th-28th JUNE

19th JUNE: ENGLISH

WINE WEEK – AN EVENING WITH GUSBOURNE

June also marks English Wine Week and The Three Fishes celebrates in fitting style.

On Friday 19th June, Gusbourne, one of England’s most acclaimed wine estates, takes centre stage in a very special wine pairing dinner.

Gusbourne’s exceptional Sussex and Kentgrown wines, renowned for their elegance and complexity, will be matched course by course with Nigel’s finest cooking in what promises to be a masterclass in the art of pairing great food with world-class English wine.

25th-28th JUNE: A CELEBRATION OF THE VINEYARDS OF HAMPSHIRE

From Thursday 25th to Sunday 28th June, enjoy a dedicated al fresco showcase of the Vineyards of Hampshire – a region quietly producing some of England’s most exciting sparkling wines. Alongside the wines, a BBQ theme runs throughout the four days, with a guest chef cooking over the flames, bringing a relaxed summer atmosphere to the event.

Across the weekend, the finest Hampshire bubbles take centre stage, each pour reflecting the exceptional quality now emerging from English vineyards. If you haven’t yet discovered just how remarkable home-grown fizz can be, this is the occasion to do so.

On Sunday 28th, a lively Jazz BBQ brings the showcase to a close.

TO BOOK ANY OF THESE EVENTS, GO TO THE EVENTS SECTION OF THE WEBSITE, OR CONTACT US AT: reservations@ thethreefishes.co.uk

Three weeks of events. One extraordinary restaurant. Don’t miss a moment! n

Part of Nigel Haworth’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations in aid of Action Against Hunger Book your place: thethreefishes.co.uk

The Three Fishes Mitton Road, Mitton Clitheroe BB7 9PQ 01254 826666 reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk thethreefishes.co.uk @ thethreefishesmitton

SUMMER CELEBRATION

Brindle Distillery’s Nestival event is back this summer, promising to be the best yet with a new look, exciting collaborations and a signature community vibe

Nestival, held at the home of Cuckoo Gin, is Brindle Distillery’s flagship event and it continues to build community spirit while showcasing the very best of local talent.

More than just a festival, Nestival which is held in the distillery’s Nest bar, farmyard and outdoor eaterie, is a celebration of connection, craftsmanship and creativity. The three-day experience draws together artists, brewers, foodies and artisans who share a passion for quality and a love for local culture.

“Nestival has always been about the people and the experience,” says Mark Long, Director of Brindle Distillery. “It’s about coming together, enjoying good food, great drinks and live music in a welcoming, relaxed environment. We’re excited to have this year’s event reflect the growth and spirit of the distillery.”

Held from 31st July to 2nd August 2026, this year’s Nestival will be bigger and better than ever, featuring live music, artisan food and exciting collaborations.

Headlining Friday night is the dynamic Paddy Slater, alongside his seven-piece band E2E. Saturday brings rising star Connor Banks, known for his performances nationwide and who has performed in Nashville – the home of country music, while Sunday will see in-house band, Under

the Covers perform with vocalist Liz Long, creating the perfect soundtrack for a familyfriendly day.

IT’S BEEN AN AMAZING YEAR FOR US. WE’VE GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH AND NESTIVAL THIS YEAR WILL REFLECT THAT

As always, Nestival will feature a variety of local food and drink, including new partnerships. Bar Pintxos from Preston is bringing their paella station and pintxos (small tapas-style bites), offering festival visitors a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.

“The collaboration with Bar Pintxos is a special one,” says Mark. “It’s all about

supporting local businesses and sharing the best that the area has to offer.”

Community collaborations don’t stop there. The distillery has once again teamed up with Rivington Brewery Co, which will be serving throughout the event. “Rivington Brewery is a fantastic partner and we’re thrilled to continue working with them to bring something unique to the festival,” Mark explains.

“And we will be returning the favour when we serve our signature gins and cocktails at Rivington’s Farm Trip beer festival in August.”

This year also marks a special milestone for the distillery with the one-year anniversary of their outdoor dining space, Peckish. “It’s been an amazing year for us,” says Mark. “We’ve gone from strength to strength and Nestival this year will reflect that.”

Whether you’re visiting for the drinks, the food or the music, Nestival is set to bring the community together in a way that only Brindle Distillery can. Don’t miss out on the fun – join Mark and the Nestival team for a weekend of good vibes and great memories. n

NESTIVAL

31st July – 2nd August 2026

Live music, laid-back vibes with lots of fun, artisan food & drink

Brindle Distillery

Holmes Farm, Sandy Lane Brindle, Chorley PR6 8LZ 01772 323313

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ABBA‑SOLUTELY UPLIFTING THEATRE

Transporting audiences to a sun‑kissed Greek island, Mamma Mia! offers laughter, love and wall‑to‑wall feel‑good moments

Bursting with energy, nostalgia and irresistible charm, this hugely popular musical delivered two and a half hours of unfiltered joy at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens – the kind that sends audiences out into the night smiling, humming and uplifted.

Set against the blissful backdrop of a Greek island paradise, Mamma Mia! tells a heart‑warming story of love, friendship and self‑discovery, all woven seamlessly through the timeless songs of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, Sophie embarks on a mission to discover the identity of the father she’s never known, secretly inviting three men from her mother Donna’s romantic past to the island. What unfolds is a deliciously funny and touching celebration of family, possibility and living life to the fullest.

From the very first moments, the company’s chemistry is undeniable. The performances are polished yet playful, filled with warmth and genuine connection. By the time the encore arrives, the entire auditorium is on its feet, singing and dancing along – a testament to the show’s unrivalled feel‑good factor.

FROM THE VERY FIRST MOMENTS, THE COMPANY’S CHEMISTRY IS UNDENIABLE. THE PERFORMANCES ARE POLISHED YET PLAYFUL, FILLED WITH WARMTH AND GENUINE CONNECTION

The casting of Donna and her lifelong friends, the iconic Dynamos, is particularly inspired. Jenn Griffin’s Donna is heartfelt and vocally powerful, anchoring the emotional core of the show with confidence and sincerity. Sarah Earnshaw and Rosie Glossop shine as Tanya and Rosie respectively, delivering wonderfully timed comedy alongside dazzling vocals. Together, the trio light up the stage with their camaraderie, injecting humour, glamour and a strong sense of female friendship into every scene.

Lydia Hunt leads the show as Sophie with assurance and maturity, offering a refreshingly grounded portrayal of a young woman stepping bravely into the next chapter of her life. Her strong vocal performance and emotional authenticity ensure that Sophie’s journey feels both

relatable and compelling.

The choreography is cleverly enhanced by playful, imaginative use of props that add both humour and visual flair. Flippers and snorkel masks are seamlessly woven into the movement, setting a light‑hearted tone before the action effortlessly transforms into the high‑energy hen party sequence. Swinging bananas, a hairdryer repurposed as a microphone and other knowing touches bring a wink of self‑aware comedy, perfectly matching the exuberance of the music.

Now in its 26th year, Mamma Mia! is more than a musical – it’s a global phenomenon. From the West End to Broadway and beyond, its universal themes and joyful score have captivated more than 70 million people worldwide. Yet despite its incredible success, the magic remains wonderfully intimate, especially in a venue as grand and atmospheric as Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

Funny, moving and utterly life‑affirming, this crowd‑pleasing production played to a sold‑out, joy‑filled auditorium. The reaction said it all rapturous applause, smiling faces and an audience clearly having the time of their lives. n

wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Editor:

Did you approach producing the album more like a DJ than a traditional pop artist?

Melanie C:

Definitely. A DJ thinks about how music feels on the dancefloor. I’m very energetic live, but in the studio I can be a totally different person, so I really pushed myself to make music I could bring to life onstage. DJing has brought so much joy into my life and I wanted that to translate onto the album. I’m so proud to be Sporty Spice –it’s who I am.

Editor:

So, when you’re making a track, are you imagining how it will land on the dancefloor?

Melanie C:

100 per cent. I wasn’t thinking about people sitting at home listening – I was thinking about the club, the gym, getting ready with your mates. Songs like Undefeated Champion make me smile every time. It’s about self-empowerment, picking yourself up –something we all need. As I’ve got older, I’ve grown to really appreciate the exchange between artist and audience.

INSIDE MELANIE C’s SWEAT ERA

With the release of Sweat, Melanie C opens up about rediscovering dance music, reconnecting with her younger self and why joy, sweat and community sit at the heart of her most liberated record yet

Editor:

Let’s talk about Sweat, your forthcoming album. It feels like your most liberated record. What changed for you creatively this time?

Melanie C:

Every album I’ve made reflects where I am in my life. Over the last eight years I’ve been DJing, playing festivals worldwide and, for the last five years, at Pacha in Ibiza. That reignited my passion for dance music.

I first discovered raving at 17 while on holiday in Spain. Everyone was dancing so freely – we were instantly hooked. Back in London, we hunted down the rave scene and I fell into this incredible movement. Growing up in the 80s,

clubs could feel a bit stiff, but this music was euphoric. People from totally different backgrounds came together for the first time. Then the Spice Girls happened. I auditioned at 20 and my whole life changed. We were focused, driven and constantly working. That part of me – the raver, the club kid –got left behind, even though I always loved dance music.

I’d flirted with it before as a solo artist –like the Hex Hector remix of Northern Star –but with Sweat I really revisited those early influences. It felt like reclaiming who I was before Spice Girls and bringing everything together. I also wanted my solo music to feel closer to what I play as a DJ: multi-genre house, energy-driven and physical.

Editor:

You’re kicking off your in - store tour in Liverpool on release day. How does that feel?

Melanie C:

It feels completely right. Liverpool is such a proud, supportive city and it means a lot to go home and say thank you.

Editor:

How will you balance the hits with the new Sweat era on tour?

Melanie C:

I’m cramming in as many hits as I can –no one’s leaving disappointed. But this tour is about celebrating my whole career and bringing Sweat to life. I want people to leave exhausted, elated… and very sweaty. n

Melanie C’s new studio album Sweat is out now.

melaniec.net

MONET MASTERPIECE VISITS BLACKPOOL

A rare Monet masterpiece is currently on show in Blackpool as part of The National Gallery Masterpiece Tour 2025-2027, in a landmark cultural moment. Photography: Martin Bostock

For the very first time, Blackpool’s Grundy Art Gallery has welcomed an original Monet masterpiece to huge excitement. Selected from over 30 UK venues, Grundy Art Gallery is one of just four host institutions nationwide to display this remarkable work.

Monet’s The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil (1872) depicts a tranquil winter day on the outskirts of Argenteuil near Paris. Although the town was already partly industrialised and a popular location for sailing and leisure boating, Monet only hints at this developing bustle with a few scattered buildings behind a screen of trees. Instead, he focuses on an intimate moment by the river. The orderly composition, variety of brushstrokes and reflection in the water

are all regular features of Monet’s work. With bold yet sensitive brushstrokes, Monet captures the misty light and reflective water, laying the foundations for Impressionism in this intimate and quietly powerful riverscape.

“The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration.” – Claude Monet. This masterpiece has only left The National Gallery once in the last 20 years, making this a rare and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

ART SPEAKS DIFFERENTLY IN DIFFERENT PLACES AND WE ARE EXCITED TO SEE MONET’S THE PETIT BRAS OF THE SEINE AT ARGENTEUIL IN BLACKPOOL

The National Gallery, London selected the Grundy from over 30 UK venues to be one of just four host museums and galleries to take part in the exhibition tour for this carefully chosen work from its collection. This prestigious piece will be followed by further artworks of art historical significance during the three-year project as part of The National Gallery’s ongoing commitment to sharing its collection across the UK.

Grundy Art Gallery Curator, Paulette Brien, said: “The presentation of the Monet on loan from National Gallery shows Grundy’s determination to celebrate the very best of art and culture, and to make that accessible to residents and visitors alike. It’s also testament to our collaborative working with local, regional and national partners and evidence of Grundy’s ambition.”

Per Rumberg (The Jacob Rothschild Head of The Curatorial Department, The National Gallery) added: “The National Gallery’s collection belongs to everyone, everywhere. We are very proud to collaborate with Grundy Art Gallery as part of the Masterpiece Tour. Art speaks differently in different places and we are excited to see Monet’s The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil in Blackpool.”

THE RICHNESS I ACHIEVE COMES FROM NATURE, THE SOURCE OF MY INSPIRATION

Claude Monet

The stunning oil on canvas is now available for free public view until Saturday 13th June. As part of the Masterpiece Tour, Grundy Art Gallery will also invite every Blackpool school to view the Monet and host a schools’ exhibition following interactive workshops responding to the themes of Monet’s work. The painting has also inspired young people from Blackpool’s Young People’s charity, The Magic Club, working with artist, Kelly Jayne Jones, to produce a new sound work in response to their experience of Monet’s work, ensuring the impact of this historic exhibition extends far beyond the gallery walls.

Drawing on their approach to showing local, national and international art in the heart of the North West, the Monet will be exhibited alongside a solo exhibition by North West-based artist Louise Giovanelli, who is one of the most celebrated painters of the current generation. There will also be an annual schools exhibition following workshops responding to Monet’s work and the artwork will also be embedded in

their existing work with the pARTnership, a creative and professional development project for adults with learning disabilities.

Louise Giovanelli, one of the most celebrated painters of her generation returns to The Grundy after 10 years. Her major new exhibition, From Here to Here to Here is a rare opportunity to see how Giovanelli evolved artistically and professionally to become the artist that she is today with rarely seen paintings and drawings on show.

The exhibition charts her career from art school graduate to international commercial representation with solo exhibitions taking place around the world, to her present-day position as an artist in receipt of large-scale

public commissions. In a full circle moment, From Here to Here to Here, concludes with Giovanelli handing over the Grundy exhibition baton to the next generation of emerging painters, through the inclusion of work by graduates of Apollo Painting School, the training programme that she co-founded in 2023. n

For exhibition tours, including BSL and audio description tours, see the website for further information and booking details.

thegrundy.org

them too – and played a controversial role in the Spanish Civil War. He left behind a rich chronicle of his exploits, including newspaper articles, a memoir in song and flight commentaries actually dictated in mid-air.

Drawing upon that chronicle, and also upon British Government files and a host of other fascinating sources, this book takes a close look at Captain Stack’s life and flights. It talks about his aeroplanes and his friends, who included Amy Johnson, Sir Alan Cobham and the treacherous Master of Sempill. It goes back to the places he saw first-hand. And it tells the full story of his final, tragic fall from grace.

STACK WAS KNOWN ON AIRFIELDS AROUND THE COUNTRY AND ACROSS THE WORLD. I WROTE THE BOOK WITHIN SIGHT OF BLACKPOOL TOWER, IN A HOUSE HE WILL HAVE FLOWN OVER MANY TIMES

Exuberant, colourful and ever so light on its feet, Stack provides an intimate and singular account of one of the true heroes of flying’s Golden Age.

Author David Hewitt has been a cook, a postman and a judge, and now, he enjoys telling true but unusual stories. He has previously written about a miscarriage of

STACK – FROM MOTH TO VICEROY

On the centenary of Neville Stack’s history-making flight, the first full-length biography of an aviation legend is launched

Neville Stack was once one of Britain’s favourite aviators. He came to fame as the first man to fly a light plane to India. And, having been honoured by the king for that achievement, he followed it with more than a decade of derring-do.

Stack circled the Med, crossed Arabia countless times and even flew down to Banjul. He served in both World Wars and all three branches of the Armed Forces, broke record after record and had his own flying circus. He piloted a prime minister, the Shoe King and the odd sultan. But he also crashed more often than he was willing to admit, wrote bawdy songs – and recorded

justice in the First World War and a silent film that was banned in half, but only half, of the country. Stack: From Moth to Viceroy is his third published book.

Thornton Cleveleys-based David explains: “I love finding lost stories and bringing them back into the light. I have been fascinated with the history of flying ever since I went to my first air show as a child. And when I came across the story of Captain Stack, I couldn’t believe it hadn’t been told before.

“Stack was known on airfields around the country and across the world, and I found traces of him everywhere from Kent to Karachi. I wrote the book within sight of Blackpool Tower, in a house he will have flown over many times.

“There’s something I find very appealing in his personality. Given the chance, he did what he did for the sheer joy of doing it.” n

Stack is available via Amazon, Waterstones and all good book retailers.

ON SCREEN

DISCLOSURE DAY

Release Date: 10th June

Director: Steven Spielberg

Starring: Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Eve Hewson, Colin Firth and Colman Domingo

BBFC Certificate: TBC

If you found out we weren’t alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you? This summer, the truth belongs to eight billion people. We are coming close to …Disclosure Day. Steven Spielberg’s brand-new sci-fi thriller is set to have audiences on the edge of their seats, with a script penned by industry legend and original Jurassic Park writer David Koepp. n

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES

Release Date: 25th June

Director: Marianne Elliott

Starring: Lesley Manville and Aidan Turner

BBFC Certificate: TBC

BAFTA Award-winner Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread) joins Aidan Turner (Rivals) in Christopher Hampton’s adaptation of the novel about the glittering salons of the super-rich, one misstep can mean ruin. Marquise de Merteuil is a master in the art of survival, with the Vicomte de Valmont, they use seduction to weaponise desire. When their alliance collapses, their battle threatens to destroy everyone. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Marianne Elliott (Angels in America) directs this thrilling game of love, lies and social warfare. n

Check out the latest films coming soon to The Flower Bowl in Preston. Book now at theflowerbowl.uk

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD

Date of showing: 28th May

Director: Caitríona McLaughlin

Starring: Nicola Coughlan, Éanna Hardwicke and Siobhán McSweeney BBFC Certificate: TBC

Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synge’s riveting play of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene. Filmed live on stage, Caitríona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets. n

TOY STORY 5

Date of showing: 19th June

Directors: McKenna Harris and Andrew Stanton

Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Tony Hale and Greta Lee

BBFC Certificate: TBC

Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they’re introduced to electronics, a new threat to playtime. Toy Story 5 is the newest instalment in Disney Pixar’s family films focusing on the exciting lives and enthralling antics of children’s toys when everyone’s backs are turned. This time, with a new electronic toy entering Bonnie’s life, what will happen to Buzz, Jessie and the gang? n

Hutton, Preston

Set behind private gates in the highly desirable village of Hutton, this impressive semi-detached 6-bedroom residence offers exceptional family living in a prime semi-rural setting.

Beautifully presented throughout, the home features spacious reception areas, a stunning open-plan dining kitchen and generously proportioned bedrooms. Mature landscaped gardens, extensive parking and excellent outdoor space further enhance its appeal. Combining privacy, style and convenience, the property is ideally positioned for access to Preston, excellent schools and transport links. A superb opportunity to acquire a substantial home in one of Lancashire’s most sought-after locations.

Asking Price

Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire

Substantial in nature with an important feel, this fantastic home oozes quality.

This house extends to over 5,000 sqft and boasts 6 spacious double bedrooms, multiple reception areas and a stunning open-plan kitchen with patio to the garden. The home is perfectly suited to modern family life. Beautifully presented throughout, with landscaped gardens, triple garage and ample parking, it combines character, comfort and convenience in a prime residential setting close to schools, amenities and transport links.

Offers Over £1,500,000

£1,295,000 Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show 3rd - 5th July Great Eccleston Show 18th - 19th July Garstang Show 1st August Westmorland Show 9th -10th September

Lower Bartle, Preston

The first time to be reoffered to the market since built, this home is ready for you with oodles of upgrades for your comfort and a luxurious feel.

Perfect for modern living, the property has a wonderful living kitchen space, lounge, study, entrance hall, WC and utility room to the ground floor, along with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms to the first floor. Now with beautifully landscaped contemporary gardens including a large expanse of porcelain tiled patio and lawns to the rear, along with raised beds - all carefully planted to ensure the house feels cocooned in its plot.

Offers Over £700,000

Whitestake, Preston

Set along the desirable Chain House Lane in Whitestake, this exceptional 4-bedroom detached residence has been comprehensively renovated to an outstanding specification throughout.

Offering stylish and versatile accommodation, the property features a spectacular vaulted lounge, luxury designer kitchen and beautifully appointed bedrooms and bathrooms. Set within approximately two-thirds of an acre of landscaped grounds, it also benefits from an impressive multi-purpose outbuilding incorporating a home bar, gym and workshop. Combining contemporary luxury with a semi-rural setting, this is a truly unique lifestyle home with excellent access to Preston, Leyland and motorway networks.

Offers Over £895,000