Live Preston Issue 126 March/April 2025

SPRING HAS SPRUNG FEATURE, FASHION AND GIFTS

with Mindful 365

Natuzzi Italia.

Natuzzi Italia Store

14

LAURA’S LEGACY

As March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month, we speak with Nicola Nuttall, about her daughter Laura’s battle, the urgent need for research funding and the tireless work she’s doing to ensure other families don’t have to endure the same heartbreak.

60

THE ART OF SLEEP

As we prepare for the clock change at the end of March and the days stretch out longer, there is no better time to refine your sleep habits and embrace a nighttime ritual designed for good quality sleep, as Lisa Artis explains.

72

A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE

We chat to pioneer of the arts, Christine Cort, and her incredible career spanning over 40 years which has seen her receive an OBE in the 2025 King’s Honours List for her commitment and contributions to the Arts.

110

SISTER ACT

From humble beginnings baking for family and friends, twins Rachel Finch and Lauren Sinclair have transformed their passion into a thriving empire, Finch Bakery. Nine years after opening their first shop, we catch up with the sisters.

I n d i v i d u a l W i n d o w s w i t h

C r o f t B e s p o k e S t y l i n g

WINDOWS | DOORS | CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | GARDEN PODS

LIVE MAGAZINES

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Editor: Ali Gudgeon

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Photography: Peter Austin and Michael Porter

Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Steve Garrill, Katie Hammond, Meena McDonald, Bridget Rowan, Sarah Ulyatt, Liz Walmsley, Tedd Walmsley, Joanne Wilson and Jan Woolley

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Celebrating 16 years of beautiful living at Pad

PAD showroom exhibits the best in quality furniture at Affordable Prices. Showcasing beautiful Italian leather sofa’s supplied by Nicoletti and fabric designs by Calia Italia which show a collection of pure design classics. We offer Bedroom furniture from German manufacture Nolte, with measurements to suit all customer needs. Beds can be supplied to any specifications, colour and design with mattresses to suit.

Pad offer a free design service and TV wall system’s can be installed to customer’s specifications.

“At PAD we don’t sell, we offer a stress free and friendly environment to find what you are looking for”

Live Editor

Magazines

As we march into spring, the days are getting longer and there’s even some much-needed sunshine around!

The start of a new season is a great time to look ahead. It’s the ideal time to wake up your garden, spring clean your house and get outdoors.

As the clocks spring forward, we chat to sleep expert Lisa Artis, deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, who explains that sleep is more than just rest. It is the foundation of a balanced, successful and healthy life.

March marks Brain Tumour Awareness Month and we speak to Nicola Nuttall about her daughter Laura, who was diagnosed with a glioblastoma after a routine eye test and sadly lost her battle nearly two years ago. Laura’s story, though tragically short, is one of unwavering positivity, incredible courage and a legacy that continues to inspire.

Nine years after opening their first shop and with over 200,000 followers on Instagram, we catch up with baking twins Rachel Finch and Lauren Sinclair, who have transformed their passion into a thriving empire, Finch Bakery. What began as a hobby in their mum’s kitchen has blossomed into a beloved brand.

With Mother’s Day and Easter round the corner, we’ve got gift inspiration, spring fashion and a What’s on in Preston round-up for you.

Plus all our regular features and local stories to keep you inspired and up to date. If you have a great story to share, please get in touch with us – we’d love to hear from you.

Happy reading!

Ali Gudgeon Editor

Honorary Charity President (Wooden Spoon) Remarkable

Tetley’s Bitter Rugby Cup Winner

Saracens Rugby Club Player

Awarded an MBE

England Rugby World Cup Winner

England Rugby Club Captain

When I went to university to study law, I saw my fellow students struggle to adapt with being away from home, sorting out their meals, travelling to and from lectures and managing weekly budgets. Stonyhurst gave me the strategies to be well ahead of the rest in organising my life.

Kyran Bracken MBE

Open Day 17th May 2025

Stonyhurst (Alumnus 1990)

stonyhurst.ac.uk/sixthform

England Rugby Player (51 Caps)

University of Bristol (Law)

SIXTH FORM Co-ed 16-18 | Boarding & Day | Jesuit, Catholic School

Celebrity Dancing on Ice Winner

LAURA’S LEGACY: INSPIRING

HOPE IN THE

FIGHT AGAINST GBM

As March

is Brain Tumour Awareness

Month, Ali Gudgeon speaks with Nicola Nuttall, about her daughter Laura’s battle, the urgent need for research funding and the tireless work she’s doing to ensure other families don’t have to endure the same heartbreak

Apoignant anniversary approaches –22nd May marks two years since the world lost Laura Nuttall, a vibrant 23-year-old taken too soon by a glioblastoma (GBM). Glioblastoma multiforme is a fast-growing type of tumour of the brain. It is the most common type of primary malignant brain tumour in adults. Horrified by the statistics around brain tumours and the lack of government investment, Laura’s mum, Nicola Nuttall, became a dedicated campaigner and is continuing her eldest daughter’s passion to raise awareness and find a cure.

Laura’s story, though tragically short, is one of unwavering positivity, incredible courage and a legacy that continues to inspire. Laura’s diagnosis in 2018, following a routine eye test, was a devastating blow.

LAURA’S STORY, THOUGH TRAGICALLY SHORT, IS ONE OF UNWAVERING POSITIVITY, INCREDIBLE COURAGE AND A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE

Eight tumours. Glioblastoma multiforme. The most aggressive form of brain cancer. For any family, this news would be shattering. “It was a complete shock,” Nicola recalls. “Laura was in her first term at university in London. We had to pack up her room and bring her home to Barrowford. Then the search began – finding a surgeon, registering with a local GP. The immediate priority was surgery to remove the largest tumour, the one causing her headaches, nausea and seizures.”

The standard treatment in the UK involves surgery followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Laura bravely underwent this gruelling regime. “But even with all that,” Nicola explains, “her prognosis was just 12 months. We refused to accept that. We started researching treatments available elsewhere. In Germany, we found a professor using electro hyperthermia and oncolytic virus therapy. It made sense to us, so we started fundraising to take her to Cologne every six weeks for these treatments. Without the incredible generosity of our community, that wouldn’t have been possible.”

Laura’s positivity throughout her illness was remarkable. “It was incredibly difficult,” Nicola admits. “But Laura was consistently

positive. She never asked, ‘why me?’ or complained about the unfairness of it all. She just got on with things, determined to prove the surgeon wrong. She had this incredible inner strength. She once said, ‘They know what I have, but they don’t know who I am.’”

Laura’s bucket list became a symbol of her zest for life. “She loved anything to do with driving,” Nicola smiles. “Buses, HGVs, tractors, monster trucks, motorbikes, even the tube! She loved skydiving, went on safari in South Africa, met Michelle Obama, spent a day with Greater Manchester Police and went fishing with Paul Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer. The bucket list was constantly evolving. We were always finding new things to add.”

Now, Nicola is channelling her grief into action. She’s a trustee of Our Brain Bank,

campaigning for whole genome sequencing of brain tumours. “Brain tumours are incredibly heterogeneous,” she explains. “Each one has its own genetic fingerprint. Yet, we still treat them all with the same chemotherapy, even though there could be more effective, targeted treatments. Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, yet they receive only about 2 per cent of cancer research funding. There have been no new drugs for the disease in decades. We need personalised treatments, targeted to the specific drivers of each tumour and we need faster diagnosis.”

The second anniversary of Laura’s passing will be marked with a family walk up Pendle Hill, one of Laura’s favourite places and by carrying out random acts of kindness in her name. Her legacy lives on through the book Nicola wrote, ‘The Stars Will Still Be There.’

“I wrote it to tell our whole story,” Nicola says. “Yes, there are sad parts, but there’s also a lot of joy and laughter. I wanted to share Laura with the world, her incredible attitude. She taught us that life is short and precious and we have a responsibility to live it as fully as possible. Laura lived a lifetime in her 23 years

BRAIN TUMOURS ARE THE BIGGEST CANCER KILLER OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS UNDER 40, YET THEY RECEIVE ONLY ABOUT 2 PER CENT OF CANCER RESEARCH FUNDING

and she helped so many people with her kindness.” The book has resonated deeply with readers, inspiring and energising them with Laura’s approach to life.

The Be More Laura Foundation continues to make a difference. “We have our shop at bemorelaura.com selling T-shirts, sweatshirts,

mugs and bags printed with Laura’s words: ‘Be Kind, Be Brave, Be Silly, Be Honest,’” Nicola says. “We’re working alongside major brain tumour charities and institutes to fund research into kinder, more effective treatments for glioblastoma. So far, we’ve donated over £100,000.”

Laura’s story is a powerful reminder of the urgent need for more research funding and better treatments for brain tumours. Nicola’s tireless campaigning and the work of the Be More Laura Foundation are offering hope to families facing this devastating diagnosis. n

To support their efforts, visit bemorelaura.com  and join them in the fight for a future free from brain tumours.

bettersafethantumour.com

ourbrainbank.org/use-your-brains

SHINING A LIGHT ON BRAIN TUMOURS

March marks Brain Tumour Awareness Month in the UK, a crucial time to raise awareness of this often overlooked and devastating disease

It’s a month dedicated to increasing understanding, highlighting the need for more research funding and supporting those affected by brain tumours. While progress has been made, brain tumours remain a significant health challenge, impacting thousands of lives across the country.

Brain tumours can develop at any age, from young children to older adults. They are complex and varied, with over 120 different types, each presenting unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive form, is particularly devastating, often diagnosed late and notoriously difficult to treat. The insidious nature of brain tumours, often mimicking other ailments, can lead to delayed diagnosis, impacting prognosis and treatment options.

The statistics surrounding brain tumours are stark. 16,000 people annually are diagnosed with brain tumours in the UK – 45 people every day. They are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, yet they receive disproportionately low funding

for research compared to other cancers. This disparity highlights the urgent need for greater investment to improve diagnosis, develop more effective treatments and ultimately find a cure. In the UK, thousands are diagnosed with a brain tumour each year, and sadly, many lose their battle with the disease. For those who survive, the impact can be profound, often leading to long-term physical, cognitive and emotional challenges.

seizures, changes in vision, nausea, vomiting, weakness and cognitive difficulties. Increased awareness can empower individuals to seek medical attention promptly, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.

Brain Tumour Awareness Month is not just about raising awareness – it’s about driving change. It’s a call to action for increased research funding, improved access to clinical trials and better support for patients and their families. It’s a reminder that behind the statistics are real people, facing unimaginable challenges. By working together, we can shine a light on brain tumours, accelerate research progress and offer hope for a future

INCREASED AWARENESS CAN EMPOWER INDIVIDUALS TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION PROMPTLY, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO EARLIER DIAGNOSIS AND IMPROVED TREATMENT OUTCOMES

Brain Tumour Awareness Month serves as a vital platform to amplify the voices of patients, families and researchers. It’s a time to share personal stories, raise funds for vital research and advocate for better care and support for those affected by brain tumours. Charities like Brain Tumour Research and The Brain Tumour Charity play a crucial role in providing support services, raising awareness and funding research to improve outcomes for patients.

The campaign also aims to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of brain tumours, encouraging early detection and diagnosis. While symptoms can vary depending on the location and type of tumour, common signs include persistent headaches,

where brain tumours are no longer a death sentence. This March, join the movement, support the cause and help make a difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating disease. n

braintumoursupport.co.uk

CRAIG ALAN

of only 25 pieces, new for 2025 from Craig Alan as part of his ‘Perfect Harmony’ collection.

Now based in Atlanta, Craig was born in California, but his artistic talent began to emerge when his family moved south. His earliest experimentation took the form of street portraiture,

GREEN REVOLUTION

Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries is at the forefront of landscape innovation with the opening of their state-of-the-art Landscaping Design Centre this April

In a rapidly shifting industry, Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries is not just keeping pace –it is setting the new standard. Their point of difference isn’t simply selling everything a landscaping project requires, but providing tailored creative solutions and expert horticulturalist advice for any garden or landscaping project irrespective of scale.

Jon Hollywood, Banister Hall’s CEO, explains: “For over 25 years, our company owner Alan Lovell has developed the unique proposition that is Bannister Hall Landscaping supplies, a one-stop landscaping supplies centre offering practically everything a landscaping project

could need, such as building materials, paving, decking, timber, decorative aggregates, topsoil, turf, water features and of course, a wide variety of plants and trees.

THE HUB WILL INCLUDE A BEAUTIFULLY STOCKED PRODUCT SHOWROOM AND A COMPREHENSIVE OUTDOOR PLANT NURSERY

“As part of our ongoing investment and commitment to the Bannister Hall brand, we are launching a unique and innovative landscaping design hub, possibly the first

of its kind in the UK. Here, we will offer customers a revolutionary purpose-built landscaping virtual reality 3D design hub which combines a comprehensive landscaping product materials showroom and a plant nursery offering over 40,000 different species.”

When launched in early April 2025, this revolutionary Landscaping Design Centre based in Higher Walton, will offer homeowners a relaxing environment that boasts an immersive virtual reality 3D design service and the ability to choose every material aspect of their new garden from an indoor dedicated showroom. What’s more, Bannister Hall will offer homeowners introductions to their pre-approved list of recommended landscaping installers, ensuring projects are completed on time and to the highest quality standard.

The Landscaping Design Centre will offer a full turn-key landscaping project solution. The hub will include a beautifully stocked product showroom and a comprehensive

3D Design Example

outdoor plant nursery. The first-rate service provides homeowners with confidence that their substantial financial investment in a new beautiful outdoor space will be project managed by experts from concept to completion.

The process will offer immersive 3D designs, written staged contracts, schedule of works including installer completion dates and an itemised bill of materials. Additionally, Bannister Hall will offer a range of low-cost financing options to ensure project affordability is available for all customers.

IDEAS WILL BE TRANSFORMED INTO REALITY WITH THE HELP OF TALENTED DESIGNERS, EXPERT HORTICULTURISTS, DEDICATED PROJECT MANAGERS AND RECOMMENDED INSTALLERS

Director Alan Lovell, adds: “Put simply, we have mirrored the retail concept of visiting a high-end kitchen design showroom and have adapted and applied this model to landscaping development projects. We can offer homeowners the opportunity to work with their own dedicated 3D garden designer and project manager, who will oversee the entire project’s development whilst helping customers choose every element of their new garden from our large on-site product stock holding and comprehensive nurseries. We will also be offering a range of financing facilities to ensure customers can realise their creative vision with added affordability flexibility.”

With operations based across three extensive sites, Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries remain the North West’s premier single-source supplier of soft and hard landscaping materials to both trade and retail customers.

Bannister Hall boasts a comprehensive range of landscaping products and paving options including natural stone and porcelain, decorative aggregates, timber sleepers, fencing, outdoor lighting solutions and drainage. It goes without saying that they also supply tools, maintenance equipment, clothing, lawn care products, ponds and supplies –literally everything you could possibly need to turn your ideas into reality, right down to the very last detail.

What makes Bannister Hall more than just a supplier of landscaping products, is the access customers have to their qualified on-

site staff that offer unparalleled knowledge of landscaping materials and nursery stock. The quality and variety of their products are unrivalled but if it’s not in stock, they will source and deliver it utilising their comprehensive supplier network which has been built over more than two decades in the industry.

The new hub based at the Potter Lane site in Higher Walton, Preston will be at the heart of Bannister Hall’s new and extended retail area. Here, ideas will be transformed into reality with the help of talented designers, expert horticulturists, dedicated project managers and recommended installers.

Business founder, Alan Lovell, supported by his enthusiastic and passionate team has succeeded in building an enviable brand around quality products, exceptional service and a real passion for landscaping. Their journey signifies a flourishing model of how to create, innovate and inspire. n

Bannister Hall

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

sales@bannisterhall.co.uk bannisterhall.com

Business Hours

Monday to Friday: 7.00am - 5.00pm (Bank Holidays: Closed)

Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Contemporary elegance for a period home

When Zee and Adam decided to transform their kitchen, they explored several companies before selecting Kitchen Design Centre in Barrowford. It was Simon Thomas, the Showroom Manager, who stood out with his exceptional design expertise and ability to offer creative, tailored solutions.

The couple were particularly impressed by the Barrowford showroom, liking its large size and the variety of stunning displays. They liked the main flagship display and it inspired their final design, as they adopted many features including the large island and Graphite and Taupe colour scheme.

To achieve their vision, they decided to remove a wall and merge two rooms, creating a spacious, open-plan kitchen and living area that now spans the length of their home.

“We’ve found that we spend so much more time together as a family now,” they shared. “The space is perfect for everything—from casual and formal dining to food preparation, cooking and relaxing. It’s exactly what we wanted.”

They can’t praise Kitchen Design Centre enough, from Simon and GCL, the building company, right through to Craig the fitter who did an impeccable job.

To read more about how we designed this kitchen and to view the video tour of it visit: www.kitchendesigncentre.com

Simon

“This project was a pleasure to work on. The finished space looks stunning, but the greatest reward is knowing it has improved the way the family lives—confirming that I’ve achieved my goal as a designer.”

749 9254

Designer

Thomas says,

FABULOUS FLORALS

And the best part, we can deliver next day from local stock, which is why trade professionals love and trust us.

We work closely with experienced trades people who have the skills to install our products to the highest standard, if you don’t have a builder, we can connect you with a list of trusted, local professionals. Make sure to take advantage of our free measure and design service - one of our specialists will visit your site to take measurements, then bring your kitchen or bedroom to life on the big screen back at our depot with styles and colours to suit every home and budget. We also stock a range of branded appliances alongside our much-loved lamona brand, which comes with a 3-year warranty

PAVING THE WAY TO A GREENER FUTURE

In a world increasingly aware of the impact of plastic waste, innovative solutions are emerging to tackle this global challenge and Oltco, a leading specialist in resin bound driveways, is at the forefront of this movement as Ali Gudgeon finds out.

Photography: Michael Porter

Oltco’s commitment to environmental responsibility is truly inspiring. Since the launch of Recycle Bound in 2019, they’ve recycled the equivalent of a staggering 800 million plastic straws – a testament to their dedication and the power of sustainable innovation. And this number continues to climb. Their groundbreaking Recycle Bound

solution isn’t just transforming driveways across the UK; it’s actively contributing to a cleaner planet.

Lee Johnson of Oltco Southport & Preston is understandably proud of the impact they’re making locally. “Recycle Bound has been a tremendous success,” he shares. “We’re so grateful for the support from individuals and businesses in the area. Being able to offer such an incredible, eco-friendly product to our customers is a real privilege.”

OLTCO ARE LEADING THE WAY IN SUSTAINABLE SURFACING SOLUTIONS, TRANSFORMING OUTDOOR SPACES WHILE CONTRIBUTING TO A GREENER FUTURE

The magic of Recycle Bound lies in its ingenious use of discarded plastic. Each square metre of this remarkable surface incorporates the equivalent of 3,000 plastic straws, rescued from landfills and transformed into something

beautiful and functional. Imagine a standard 70 square metre driveway – that’s 210,000 plastic straws given a second life.

Jon Stringer from Oltco Blackpool & the Fylde added: “We’ve seen some great success with Recycle Bound and we’re pleased to have a unique product that not only benefits our customers but the environment too.”

This commitment to sustainability has earned Oltco widespread recognition, including prestigious awards like ‘Product of the Year’ at the Cornwall Business Awards and a special ‘Sustainability Warrior’ award from the British Franchise Association. These accolades highlight not only the quality of the product but also the company’s pioneering spirit.

Beyond its eco-friendly credentials, resin bound surfacing offers practical advantages. Its hard-wearing, anti-slip and durable properties make it an ideal choice for a variety of outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to revamp your driveway, create a stylish patio, or design an inviting pathway, Oltco’s team of specialists can complete most installations in as little as a day. And with guarantees of up to 20 years, you can enjoy your beautiful, sustainable surface with complete peace of mind.

Both Oltco Southport & Preston and Oltco Blackpool & the Fylde are leading the way in sustainable surfacing solutions, transforming outdoor spaces while contributing to a greener future. They’re proving that responsible businesses can create beautiful, high-performing products that benefit both their customers and the planet. If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space with a product that makes a real difference, Oltco is the perfect partner. Contact them today to discuss your project and discover the possibilities. n

Oltco

0800 040 7795

oltco.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL BLINDS

As the days lengthen and the first hints of spring begin to appear, thoughts naturally turn to refreshing our homes. And what better way to brighten up a space and welcome the new season than with stylish and practical window dressings, as Ali Gudgeon finds out.

Photography: Michael Porter

James Albert Blinds is a premier supplier of bespoke window treatments, offering a wide range of luxury blinds, shutters and curtains. Located on Fylde Road, Preston, this company has established itself as a leader in the industry over the last 18 years, providing exceptional service and outstanding craftsmanship.

One of the standout features of James Albert Blinds is their commitment to using only the finest materials. Whether you’re looking for plantation shutters, roller blinds or motorised blinds, you can be assured of the highest quality products. Their blinds come in a variety of materials and styles, allowing you to find the perfect match for your home or office.

Owner James Albert explains: “We believe

every window deserves the perfect finish. Our bespoke blinds, curtains and shutters are crafted to elevate your home with style and quality. Let us help you bring your vision to life.”

WE BELIEVE EVERY WINDOW DESERVES THE PERFECT FINISH. OUR BESPOKE BLINDS, CURTAINS AND SHUTTERS ARE CRAFTED TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME WITH STYLE AND QUALITY

The company offers a comprehensive service that begins with a free in-home design appointment. During this visit, a windows treatment consultant will provide honest advice and help you explore the best options for your window dressing. This personalised approach ensures that you receive a solution tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

James Albert Blinds also prides itself on its range of motorised blinds, which are not only stylish but also secure and energy efficient. The latest technology means that

these can be controlled remotely from your phone or using a handy remote control. These blinds offer a modern solution to air and light management, making them a popular choice for contemporary homes.

In addition to their impressive product range, James Albert Blinds provides free measuring and fitting services. This means that from the initial consultation to the final installation, you can enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience. Their team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your new blinds or shutters are fitted perfectly, enhancing the overall look and feel of your space.

The company’s showroom features all the latest products and designs. Here, you can explore a wide range of fabrics and materials, gaining inspiration for your own window treatments.

Although based in Preston, the team also covers the surrounding areas, including Lytham, Chorley, Leyland and Blackburn. Their reputation for excellence has made them a trusted name in the North West and their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in every project they undertake.

James Albert Blinds is the go-to destination for anyone looking to transform their space with beautiful, made-to-measure window treatments. With their extensive range of products, expert advice and exceptional service, they are well-equipped to meet all your window dressing needs this spring. n

James Albert Blinds

278 Fylde Road, Preston PR2 2NJ 01772 823311

jamesalbert.co.uk

BRING HOME THE STYLE AT NEW LYTHAM STORE

Loom Loft Furniture and Interiors, a family-owned business renowned for its range of home furnishings, is opening their fifth store

Based in an adjoining building with Booths supermarket at Haven Road, Lytham, Lancashire and opening in late March, the new 7,000 square-foot space will showcase a curated collection of made to order upholstery, home furniture and décor, combining timeless elegance with modern functionality.

Loom Loft established its presence with the opening of its flagship Clitheroe store and The Loft Bistro in August 2019. Building on this success, a second store was introduced at The Mill Batley, West Yorkshire, in 2021, third at Astley Bridge, Bolton in August 2023 and fourth store with their second Loft Bistro offering at Port Way, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston in April 2024.

Both Loom Loft and Booths share a rich heritage in Lancashire, with Loom Loft continuing to build upon its legacy of quality products and exceptional customer service with a focus on local manufacturers and suppliers. Booths, also a family-run business,

has been a cornerstone of the region’s retail scene for over 170 years, known for its commitment to locally sourced products and superior customer care.

“We are proud to open our fifth retail store at Booths, a fellow family-owned business that shares our passion for delivering quality and service to the community,” said Boyd Hargreaves, Founder and CEO of Loom Loft Furniture and Interiors.

LOOM LOFT’S NEW LYTHAM LOCATION WILL PROVIDE A RELAXED AND WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE FOR CUSTOMERS TO EXPLORE AND DISCOVER HOME DÉCOR SOLUTIONS TAILORED TO THEIR INDIVIDUAL TASTES

“This new location represents an exciting opportunity to introduce our carefully curated selection of home furnishings to Lytham and surrounding areas, all while staying true to our Lancashire roots.”

Loom Loft’s new Lytham location will provide a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for customers to explore and discover home décor solutions tailored to their individual tastes. Whether shopping for a statement

sofa, an eye-catching lamp, or the perfect finishing touches for a room, the Loom Loft’s team will be on hand to offer personalised guidance and advice.

“We’re excited by the prospect of partnering with Loom Loft in this new venture,” said Booths. “Our two family businesses share similar values and a deep connection to the local community. Loom Loft’s distinctive product offerings will be a fantastic complement to our store, providing customers with a one-stop destination for everything from groceries to home interiors.”

The new Loom Loft store at Booths supermarket in Lytham will be open seven days a week, offering the perfect shopping experience for those looking to elevate their home interiors. n

loomloft.co.uk

MOCHA MOUSSE

The comfort dial is set to move even further towards warm and enveloping hues, with Mocha Mousse being named as Pantone’s Colour of the Year

Described as a ‘warming, brown hue imbued with richness’, Mocha Mousse is a coffee tone shade that is predicted to dominate the design industry over the next 12 months. Highlighting the relationship between colour and culture, Mocha Mousse captures a global mood of connection, comfort and harmony.

Nurturing the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, Mocha Mousse is an answer to our desire for comfort and simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.

French Bedroom has long been a fan of rich natural hues, with collections crafted from solid oak, ash or mahogany frameworks.

Stained with a satin varnish to enhance the grain of the wood, they are paired with rich brown velvet and soft natural brown linens that ensure the designs sit effortlessly with natural room schemes.

Bringing the outside in, harking back to nostalgic easy-going times and creating a connection to Mother Earth, the pieces and collections from French Bedroom offer new classic styles for the discerning eye, their warm rich tones bringing a grounded aesthetic, with a focus on quiet luxury.

You can curate your own sanctuary to escape to with French Bedroom, a brand that has been advocating timeless style and thoughtful, quality design since 2006. Discover luxury, handmade furniture that has been designed and manufactured by this family-owned business with authenticity at its core.

Founder Georgia Metcalfe fuses colours and textures, taking inspiration from centuries-old pieces. Customers described her designs as ‘antiques of the future’. Categories include wooden and upholstered beds ranging up to a 7ft emperor, with complementary bedsides, chests, armoires, seating and storage, plus chandeliers, lamps, linens and luxury cushions. n

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom. Open Monday – Friday 8am - 4pm Saturday 9am - 5pm

Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk

Their design process ensures no detail is overlooked:

• The briefing meeting – Understanding your needs, lifestyle and aspirations. Research and exploration – Evaluating the space to identify opportunities and constraints.

• Concept design and mood boards –Crafting a vision for the space, with ideas on layouts, styles and materials.

• Detailed drawings and specifications –Coordinating with the architectural team to ensure cohesive designs.

• Project management – Overseeing the interior installation to bring the vision to life.

TRANSFORM YOUR HOME WITH NEW INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE

BCAE Architects, known for their exceptional architectural designs across the North West, have expanded their services with a new offering – Interiors by BCAE Architects, writes Sarah Ulyatt

Led by talented in-house designer, Jessica Lauren, Interiors by BCAE Architects ensures that your home’s interiors are as thoughtfully crafted as its structure, whether it’s for a single room or an entire house.

Interiors designed to inspire

Jessica Lauren, who studied at the prestigious London College of Style, collaborates seamlessly with the architectural team to integrate thoughtful interiors into every project. Her approach combines timeless elegance with modern functionality, creating spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful. From cosy lounges to sophisticated master suites, Jessica’s designs reflect the lifestyle and aspirations of each client.

“Interiors by BCAE Architects is about more than just aesthetics,” Jessica explains. “It’s

about creating spaces that feel as good as they look – evoking emotion, fostering meaningful connections for the people living there.”

Whether you’re dreaming of an open-plan kitchen and lounge, a high-end master suite, or a reimagined living area, Interiors by BCAE Architects offers a tailored service to meet your needs.

Fully integrated design

As part of the broader architectural services, Interiors by BCAE Architects ensures every detail of your home is cohesive and inspiring. This holistic approach aligns Jessica’s creative input with the architectural plans, offering a seamless transition from the initial concept to the final build. However, the interior design service is also available as a standalone option, perfect for clients looking to refresh or redesign their homes.

Get started with a free consultation

Not sure where to begin? Join Jessica along with Ben and Arron from BCAE Architects for a free 45-minute Coffee with an Architect consultation at their Euxton studio. This relaxed meeting is the perfect opportunity to discuss your vision and explore how Interiors at BCAE Architects can transform your space –along with free coffee and biscuits! n

Book your free slot here

https://www.bcae-architects.co.uk/ coffee-with-an-architect-sign-up

BCAE Architects

Unit 17, Guest House Farm Runshaw Lane, Euxton PR7 6HD 01772 230538 07540 591628

info@bcae-architects.co.uk bcae-architects.co.uk

LUTRON WIRE-FREE SHADING SYSTEMS

Like a dimmer for the sun. Whisper-quiet privacy, UV protection, and a choice between hundreds of premium textiles.

Unique innovative technology ensures 3-5 year battery life, for hassle-free maintenance.

Adjust shades from the comfort of your home with a handheld or wall-mounted control, or from anywhere in the world with the Lutron App. Eliminate glare, increase privacy, or create the perfect atmosphere with just one touch.

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

50 YEARS OF DRESSING WINDOWS IN STYLE

For over half a century, Hannan Blinds has been a trusted name in window solutions across Lancashire, as Ali Gudgeon explores.

Photography: Michael Porter

From humble beginnings to a brandnew, state-of-the-art showroom in Fulwood, Hannan Blinds’ journey is a testament to quality products, unbeatable service and a deep understanding of their customers’ needs. Last year marked a significant milestone for the family-run business, as it celebrated 50 years of dressing windows and transforming homes. Their recent move to larger premises has

proven a resounding success, with footfall doubling since November. The bright, spacious showroom, complete with on-site parking at both the front and rear, offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for customers

WHILE WE OFFER A FULL RANGE OF CLASSIC STYLES – ROLLER, VERTICAL AND ROMAN –WE SPECIALISE IN THE INCREASINGLY POPULAR MOTORISED BLINDS

to explore the vast array of blinds, shutters and window coverings on offer. Open six days a week and even offering evening appointments, Hannan Blinds goes the extra mile to accommodate busy lifestyles. The dedicated team, including friendly

sales staff and expert fitters, are passionate about providing a personalised, no-pressure service. With 25 years in the business, owner Ian Leather’s expertise is invaluable, ensuring customers receive the best advice and guidance.

Ian explained: “Blinds have certainly evolved over the years and we’ve kept pace with all the latest innovations. While we offer a full range of classic styles – roller, vertical and Roman – we specialise in the increasingly popular motorised blinds. These modern marvels can be linked to smart home systems like Alexa, offering ultimate convenience and control at the touch of a button or a voice command.”

MUCH OF THEIR BUSINESS COMES FROM REPEAT REFERRALS AND GLOWING WORD-OF-MOUTH RECOMMENDATIONS, A TESTAMENT TO THEIR DEDICATION TO CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

The team caters to every need, from thermal blinds perfect for keeping winter chills at bay to blackout blinds ideal for creating a peaceful haven during the brighter spring months. And for new builds featuring bi-fold doors, Hannan Blinds offers bespoke solutions to complement these contemporary features.

Shutters, currently a customer favourite, represent a significant portion of their business, showcasing the breadth of their product range. All blinds are made to measure using high-quality materials and systems, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing long-lasting, value-for-money products. They manufacture their own products too, meaning a quicker turnaround, with an average delivery time of just 2-3 weeks. And with a 5-year warranty on all installations, customers can be confident in their investment.

Hannan Blinds’ reputation for excellence

extends far beyond Preston, with satisfied customers in Morecambe, Lancaster, Lytham and Blackpool. Much of their business comes from repeat referrals and glowing word-ofmouth recommendations, a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction. Online reviews echo this sentiment, with customers praising the professionalism, expertise and after-sales service.

As one satisfied customer, Jennifer Gemson, notes: “I have been a customer of Hannan Blinds for about 20 years and always found them to be extremely helpful and provide a good quality product. The service is always prompt and prices are very reasonable. Ian’s knowledge and advice is excellent.” Another, Paul, adds: “This is an outstanding company with which to deal. Impeccably professional from start to finish. Their after-sales service is exemplary. Their workmanship has been

faultless and their attention to detail superb.” Hannan Blinds offers a convenient ‘Choose at Home’ sample service, bringing their extensive range of styles and colours directly to the customer’s home. This allows for informed decisions in the context of the room’s existing décor and lighting. From the initial consultation to the professional fitting, the team at Hannan Blinds takes care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

If you’re in the area, a visit to the new Hannan Blinds showroom is highly recommended. Pop in for a brew and a browse and you’ll be warmly welcomed by Ian, Emma and the team. Discover the perfect window solutions to transform your home and experience the exceptional service that has made Hannan Blinds a Lancashire institution for over 50 years. n

Hannan Blinds

SWEET DREAMS

Finding the perfect bed can feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. Too soft, too firm, not enough support – the Goldilocks zone of sleep can seem tantalisingly out of reach. But in the heart of Preston, a family-run business is quietly revolutionising the way we sleep, as Ali Gudgeon explores

Prestige Beds isn’t just a furniture store but a supplier of dreams, crafting bespoke beds that blend comfort, style and unparalleled quality. For generations, this local gem has been supplying handcrafted mattresses and bed frames, transforming bedrooms into sanctuaries of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Prestige Beds was founded by James Dunne in 1959 in Blackburn and since then the company has gone from strength to strength. As well as the main Blackburn store at Alma Mill, they also have a store in Whitebirk, one in Burnley, along with Bold Street Beds in Preston, all offering comfort, style and expert advice.

More than just a place to buy a bed, Prestige Beds understands they’re selling a better quality of life. James explained: “A good night’s sleep is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing and we’re passionate about helping our customers achieve the rest they deserve. We believe that everyone deserves a comfortable and supportive bed and strive to make that dream a reality for every customer.”

Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of a handcrafted wooden frame, the sleek modernity of an upholstered bed, or the practicality of a storage solution, Prestige Beds has something to capture your imagination. Their extensive mattress

collection spans from traditional open coil to cutting-edge pocket sprung designs, ensuring optimal support and pressure relief for a truly restorative sleep. Brands include Harrison Spinks, Tempur, Sealy, Silentnight and Hypnos.

But what truly sets Prestige Beds apart isn’t just their impressive product range – it’s their commitment to personalised service. Their friendly, knowledgeable team takes the time to understand your specific requirements, offering expert guidance and advice to help you find the perfect bed for your body and sleeping habits. They understand that choosing a bed is a personal decision and are there to support you every step of the way.

A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP IS ESSENTIAL FOR OUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING AND WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OUR CUSTOMERS ACHIEVE THE REST THEY DESERVE

James added: “Bold Street Beds has recently undergone a refurbishment and we’re celebrating our 70th anniversary this year. We welcome shoppers to visit the showroom, try out the beds, feel the different mattress types and explore our various furniture offerings. Shopping for a new bed is a significant investment and needs to be a tactile and immersive experience.”

With over 2,500 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, if you’re looking to transform your bedroom into a haven of tranquillity, look no further than Prestige Beds. Experience the difference between simply sleeping and truly resting. n

Prestige Beds

Bold Street Beds 20-28 Bold Street, Preston PR1 7NX 01772 203218

prestigebeds.co.uk

Open 7 days a week

Hockley gloss white bedroom furniture range which offers a sleek modern finish, available in a variety of different colours and finishes, ready to be delivered as soon as the next day £POA Howdens Garstang Unit 1 Manor Park Estate Green Lane West Garstang PR3 1NJ 01995 282000 howdens.com/find-a-depot/garstang

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONVENIENCE

The convenience offered by Gainsborough Flooring’s Home Selection Service is a saviour for many customers who struggle to pop into the showroom during opening hours, as Meena McDonald discovers

Gainsborough’s customers range far and wide and many have been with them for years, some through several generations.

What keeps them coming back is the relationship and trust they have built with the team, who put convenience high on their priority list.

The development of the Home Selection Service has proved a tremendous success. Customers simply call, email or have a video call to explain the type of flooring they are looking for and then the team at Gainsborough take samples to their home at a time that suits the customer.

One customer, a surgeon at the local hospital recently commented: “As much as I wanted to pop into the showroom and see, touch and feel all the different samples, it just wasn’t possible. I couldn’t believe it when Vicky

from Gainsborough Flooring suggested they would bring the samples to us to save us the trouble.”

He continued: “The team was so friendly and helpful and they brought such a variety of samples, some we hadn’t even considered initially. They were then kind enough to leave the samples with us for a couple of weeks so we could get a real feel for them and

THE TEAM WAS SO FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL AND THEY BROUGHT SUCH A VARIETY OF SAMPLES, SOME WE HADN’T EVEN CONSIDERED INITIALLY. THEY WERE THEN KIND ENOUGH TO LEAVE THE SAMPLES WITH US FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS

match them to paintwork/wallpaper before we made our purchase. It’s such a valuable service which we’re so grateful for.”

One of the beauties of Gainsborough’s Home Selection Service is that customers can view the floor in the actual room it will be installed in, not just in the showroom or on a screen visualiser. This enables them to see it in natural light, artificial lighting and alongside their furnishings.

The service certainly proved useful to customers early this year when we were hit with snow and ice and the Gainsborough trucks were able to take samples to people’s homes.

Vicky Brown, Managing Director of Gainsborough Flooring commented: “It’s been a game-changer for so many customers who just can’t make it to the showroom, but want to see and feel the flooring before they invest in it. We’re delighted with the response to this service.” n

For more details call Vicky Brown on 01772 250682 or email vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Gainsborough Flooring

26 Heatley Street

Preston, Lancashire PR1 2XB 01772 250682

vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

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

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

A stunning garden cultivated by lawn expert Tyler Stevenson, is set to be showcased on a major, national TV advertising campaign

Tyler Stevenson’s journey is a powerful reminder of the value of taking risks, believing in yourself and putting in the effort to turn dreams into reality.

At just 24 years old in 2002, Tyler took a significant leap of faith, investing £32,000 in

a Greenthumb lawncare franchise. Armed with a ‘can do’ attitude, a passion for learning and a strong desire to build his own business, Tyler made a decision that would shape his future. But did it pay off?

Looking back, it’s clear that Tyler’s investment not only paid off, but far exceeded

his expectations. Live Magazines recently caught up with him in a stunning garden belonging to his close friends, Barbara and Mike. The garden, meticulously cultivated over time, perfectly represents Tyler’s journey – just as the garden was nurtured with care, attention and hard work, Tyler’s business blossomed thanks to determination, collaboration and the unwavering support of his team.

Barbara credits Tyler’s expertise and Greenthumb’s lawn care products for the beautiful lawns that grace her garden. With the help of Greenthumb’s core seasonal treatments, the lawn flourishes year-round. Tyler even recommended an Ambrogio robotic lawnmower, which led him to launch his second business, AutoMowIt. This venture offers independent, expert advice on robotic

lawnmowers. The installation of the robot in Barbara’s large, complex garden has made maintenance a breeze, giving Barbara more time to focus on her passion for creating unique garden features, often inspired by their iced coffee chats.

TYLER HAS NOT ONLY BUILT A THRIVING BUSINESS BUT HAS CULTIVATED A LEGACY OF BEAUTIFUL LAWNS

For Tyler, the success of his Greenthumb franchise and the launch of AutoMowIt are just the beginning. The true satisfaction comes from knowing the impact he’s had on people’s lives. His business isn’t just about beautiful lawns and profits – it’s about making a positive difference. During the pandemic, many people realised the importance of their outdoor spaces and Tyler took great pride in helping them transform their gardens into sanctuaries.

The sense of community Tyler has fostered is evident in his work. He’s supported local charities, provided employment and helped countless employees go on to run their own businesses. It’s this dedication to service and connection that makes his success far more meaningful than financial rewards alone. When Greenthumb launched their Lawn Love Rewards programme, Tyler suggested

using Barbara’s garden as the backdrop for a national advertising campaign to which they gladly agreed. The garden, with its perfectly maintained lawn and vibrant blooms, was the ideal representation of the brand’s values and Tyler’s work. Seeing the lawn he had personally nurtured showcased on a national scale was a moment of immense pride.

Today, Tyler’s success is about more than just growing his business – it’s about expanding into new ventures while staying true to his core values. In addition to his original 21-year franchise, Tyler has expanded to a second territory and continues to run AutoMowIt alongside it. He’s dedicated to providing personalised service backed by the credibility of a national brand, always offering products and services he wholeheartedly believes in.

One example is the latest 4WD robotic mowers from Mammotion, which can handle steep, large and awkward lawns with ease. These mowers don’t require perimeter wires, can create patterns like stripes, chequers or even letters and navigate paths to maintain multiple lawns with minimal effort.

If you’re looking for expert lawn care with a personal touch or the latest in robotic mowing technology, Tyler Stevenson is the person to turn to. His wealth of experience, commitment to quality, and passion for his work have made him a standout figure in the lawn care industry.

THE INSTALLATION OF THE ROBOTIC MOWER IN THIS LARGE, COMPLEX GARDEN HAS MADE MAINTENANCE A BREEZE

Through his hard work, dedication and community spirit, Tyler has not only built a thriving business but has cultivated a legacy of beautiful lawns, lasting friendships and a positive impact on the community. n

Greenthumb

AutoMowIt

Unit 3, Portland Farm Buckholes Lane

Higher Wheelton PR6 8JL

Greenthumb: 01257 543214

AutoMowIt: 0800 1522 123

WAKE UP YOUR GARDEN

Spring is knocking and it’s the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a summer garden you’ll truly love. If you want a garden that’s a proper summer haven, now’s the time to get cracking

First things first, a good tidy-up. Think of it as a spring clean for your outdoor space. Dead leaves, twigs, anything that’s looking a bit worse for wear –get it gone. Give your borders a good rake, loosen up the soil and you’ll be amazed how much brighter everything looks. And while you’re at it, have a good look for any weeds that are already starting to poke through. Nip them in the bud now and you’ll save yourself a lot of work later.

Next up, feeding time. Your plants have been dormant all winter and they’re hungry

for some nutrients. A good general-purpose fertiliser will do the trick, or if you’re feeling fancy, you can get specific ones for different types of plants. Just follow the instructions on the packet and you’ll be giving your garden a real boost.

GIVE YOUR BORDERS A GOOD RAKE, LOOSEN UP THE SOIL, AND YOU’LL BE AMAZED HOW MUCH BRIGHTER EVERYTHING LOOKS

If you’re thinking about planting anything new, now’s the time to get those seeds started indoors. Tomatoes, peppers, anything that needs a bit of a head start – get them sown in trays or pots and keep them somewhere warm and bright. By the time the weather has properly warmed up, they’ll be ready to go outside.

And don’t forget about your lawn. Give it a good mow, but don’t cut it too short just yet. A light trim will encourage it to thicken up and you’ll have a lush green carpet in no

time. If you’ve got any bare patches, make sure you reseed them.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – it’s still a bit chilly out there. And you’re right. But that’s why you’ve got to be smart about it. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and if there’s a risk of frost, make sure you’ve got some fleece or horticultural fleece handy to protect any tender plants.

Finally, take a moment to enjoy the process. Get out there, get your hands dirty and breathe in the fresh spring air. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching your garden come to life after a long winter. And by putting in a bit of effort now, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, thriving garden that you can enjoy all summer long. So, get out there and make the most of it! n

DREAM TEAM

Create your own corner of paradise with the aid of the specialists at Wyre Gardens, as Bridget Rowan discovers.

Photography: Michael Porter

Hidden away on a Garstang trading estate is a fruitful enterprise where business remains grounded –in gardens. At the heart of the action is Mark Sargeant and Ashley Illman, who created Wyre Gardens three years ago and now head a team of nine inspired and dedicated professionals.

Landscape gardener Mark, and Ashley, a garden designer, planned for sustained growth when they formed Wyre Gardens. But even they have been surprised by their rapid success. Last year they dealt with 49 projects, from remodelling small gardens to transforming the grounds at country house hotel Thurnham Hall near Lancaster. Now they aim to build on the successes of the past three years.

“It’s been a journey,” admitted Mark, an outdoors pursuits enthusiast and the father of a three-year-old son. “I had confidence in what we were doing, but I didn’t expect it to grow so quickly in just three years.

The aim now is to keep going, to build on what we have created and keep opening up new areas.”

SUCCESS HAS PROVED AN INSPIRATION FOR MARK AND ASHLEY, WHO REMAIN FOCUSED ON DEVELOPING AND EXPANDING THE TEAM’S EXPERTISE

Success has proved an inspiration for Mark and Ashley, who remain focused on developing and expanding the team’s

expertise. And that means taking the best approach to the job, whether that’s Ashley creating his dramatic designs with hi-tech 3-D images or going retro and turning to heritage craftsmanship if necessary, such as at 12th century Thurnham Hall where the team reverted to traditional pointing for old stonework.

“Sometimes, you just have to use the old methods,” said head of production David Jack. “Traditional pointing takes a lot longer but it’s nice to keep the old skills in use and pass them on. With a place like Thurnham Hall you really have to use traditional methods and if we can reuse stuff that’s already there, we will. Old things clean up nicely. The old Thurnham flags cleaned up really well and now look new again.”

Josh Taylor, who works closely with Dave and joined the company last June, was among the craftsmen who worked at Thurnham Hall and was delighted to learn a historic technique. “Traditional pointing has many different aspects to it,” he said. “It’s much more chilled out than modern pointing. It was good. I’ve been developing new skill sets since joining the company. I enjoy doing everything but at the moment I’m really happy to keep progressing and learning as I go.”

This ongoing professional development is something that has galvanised the entire team and they all speak enthusiastically about it.

Paver Lorimer Hill, who joined the staff

a year ago, said: “We all have a well-rounded skill set. We each have different strengths –we help each other and learn from each other. I’m always learning. There isn’t a day goes by without me adding to my skill set. My skills have grown massively since coming here.”

His ex-farm worker colleague Jack Bonney agreed. “I love it here. I love working outside,” he said. “We’re a great team, we all get on and we’re learning something new every day. We are all developing new skills all the time.”

The other members of the team are Joe Spencer, Chris Wright and Oliver Singleton.

Ashley, who has a three-year-old daughter, once worked in theatre and has brought his production flair to garden design. He is also the man on the spot, talking to clients and

MY SKILLS HAVE GROWN MASSIVELY SINCE COMING HERE. THERE ISN’T A DAY GOES BY WITHOUT ME ADDING TO MY SKILL SET

Lorimer Hill

showing them exactly how and when their dreams will become reality. He said: “It’s been a real eye-opener the way it has all cohered and taken off, particularly in the last 18 months. Now we hope to continue our growth and see where we go from here.”

The firm’s distinctive fleet of four vehicles with its green and white livery has become a familiar sight in the area. So, for a glorious garden makeover, follow the fleet to join the happy band of satisfied Wyre Gardens’ customers. n

GROWTH THROUGH GENERATIONS OF SERVICE & EXCELLENCE

Small seeds planted four generations ago have seen a family business grow into what is now a trusted and experienced cornerstone of the Lancashire gardening community, built on a deep-rooted passion for delivering value and customer service, writes Katie Hammond.

Photography: Michael Porter

When Joseph Webster took his first foray into ironmongery with son Bill back in 1948, he could never have foreseen that his great grandson would still be honouring the legacy of quality he planted from humble beginnings all those years ago. With a flourishing business, still very

much centred around the values of his great grandfather, David Webster is the current custodian of what is now Mowerpower, evolved from J Webster and Son Ltd, and now celebrating more than 75 years in business.

Suppliers of high quality, reliable maintenance tools for professionals and home gardeners alike, Mowerpower has

cultivated a reputation for excellence, specialist maintenance and servicing for loyal customers across Lancashire.

David tells us: “I was always around the business from an early age and loved meeting customers, trying to help out wherever I could. My dad Richard showed me the importance of not just the quality of the machinery and tools we supply, but also backing this up with an ongoing relationship with our customers, so they feel reassured when they buy anything from us. We are always on hand to maintain their machinery as well as demonstrate and advise what will work best for their gardening needs.”

MY DAD RICHARD SHOWED ME THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT JUST THE QUALITY OF THE MACHINERY AND TOOLS WE SUPPLY, BUT ALSO BACKING THIS UP WITH AN ONGOING RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR CUSTOMERS, SO THEY FEEL REASSURED WHEN THEY BUY ANYTHING FROM US

Based between Preston and Lancaster on the A6, Mowerpower is well-placed for customer visits to discuss their individual requirements, which David feels is an intrinsic part of the business’s success. He continues: “We had to improve our online presence and communication during the pandemic, so there’s lots of information about products, services and maintenance on our website, but our real strength has always been interacting with customers face to face so that we can demonstrate the best products and machinery for their needs. Our experienced and knowledgeable team can talk through everything from purchase to carrying out maintenance and repairs as needed.”

Deeply embedded within the local gardening community and further afield across Lancashire, Mowerpower works hard to maintain its commitment and passion

about educating customers to help with both commercial and home cultivated gardens.

Stocking everything from commercial and domestic outdoor heaters to ride-on, battery, robotic and petrol mowers, scarifiers and rotavators, chainsaws and blowers, the 10-strong team also offers machinery hire for the more challenging tasks and reconditioned equipment to suit everyone’s budgets and requirements.

David adds: “Because we have such great and ongoing relationships with generations of our customers, they view us as a trusted partner to guide them through the gardening season and any maintenance which needs to be carried out at different times of the year.

“Dealing with everyone from novices to professional gardeners and first-time machinery buyers to commercial landscapers gives us unrivalled experience and know-how and we stay in touch with them as the year unfolds. For example, at this time of year, people are thinking about Spring and wanting to get out in their gardens despite the colder weather, so our mobile heaters for patio, marquee and workshop use, with high heat output and low running costs, are really popular at the moment with both commercial and domestic customers.

“Everything we sell is backed up with service and parts supply. We also offer a delivery service and on-site demonstrations for larger equipment to ensure the customer gets exactly what they need for the job in hand.”

EVERYTHING WE SELL IS BACKED UP WITH SERVICE AND PARTS SUPPLY. WE ALSO OFFER A DELIVERY SERVICE AND ON-SITE DEMONSTRATIONS FOR LARGER EQUIPMENT TO ENSURE THE CUSTOMER GETS EXACTLY WHAT THEY NEED FOR THE JOB IN HAND

Looking to the future, and with the next generation already pottering round the business in the form of David’s children Lily and Oliver, aged 4 and 2, Mowerpower remains dedicated to its founding principles of quality, durability and customer satisfaction. With a blend of tradition and innovation, the Webster family continues to inspire gardeners county wide, proving that a family business can thrive and continually evolve, while staying true to its deep and prolific roots. n

Mowerpower Ltd

Tom Horns Yard, Garstang Road Claughton-on-Brock

Preston PR3 0NB 01995 643999

mowerpower.co.uk

STYLE IT OUT

The J F REY JF2899 from the Carbon Core collection blends contemporary design with vintage charm, featuring carbon fibre and warm wood. Hand-assembled with precision, this frame seamlessly fuses innovation and craftsmanship for a bold yet refined statement £450

The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Row Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213 thespectaclefactory.com

The Mellor sunglasses are the pinnacle of sophisticated eyewear with a timeless shape. Pictured in tortoise, they are available in four colourways, priced from £145 yoovy.co.uk

MELLOR SUNGLASSES IN TORTOISE FROM £145 yoovy.co.uk LANX UNISEX KHAKI LANGDEN ROLLTOP BACKPACK £175 lanxshoes.com

SPRING INTO THE SEASON

LANX WOMEN’S TAUPE & BROWN OGDEN HIKER STYLE BOOT £240 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

GENTS SEIKO PROSPEX SOLAR CHRONOGRAPH 1969 RE-INTERPRETATION WITH SUNBURST YELLOW DIAL £660 Huppach 15 Rainhall Road Barnoldswick BB18 5AF 01282 815559 huppach.co.uk LADIES BAUME & MERCIER QUARTZ WATCH WITH AZURE BLUE DIAL £1875 huppach.co.uk

Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

WHEELER GLASSES CASES IN LAVENDER £9.99 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

Sarah Layton 71 King Street Whalley BB7 9SW 01254 822062 sarahlayton.co.uk FRANGIPANI STERLING SILVER HAMMERED CUFF £75 frangipani-style.com

With lighter nights and warmer weather, it’s time to get out and about with these smart spring accessories ALICE WHEELER GIFT SET IN DUCK EGG COMPRISING MIRROR COMPACT AND MATCHING WALLET £19.99

Precious at Whalley 7 Accrington Road Whalley Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 9TD 01254 801193 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

GEORGE JENSON DAISY LAYERED RING IN SILVER £230

GARMIN FENIX 8 GPS SMARTWATCH, 47MM, TITANIUM WITH SPARK ORANGE/ GRAPHITE SILICONE BAND £869 sarahlayton.co.uk

glasses are the same and you get the best vision once you’ve had your eyes tested and glasses provided by your opticians, but that just isn’t true.”

Amazed at the precise detail he can now see, Ferenc Van Esch has nothing but praise for the team at The Spectacle Factory. Photography: Robin Lyndon

he best glasses I’ve ever had!”

That’s what Ferenc Van Esch thinks of his glasses from The Spectacle Factory.

THE NEXT LEVEL “T

Born in The Netherlands, Ferenc has lived in the UK for over 20 years and has been a loyal customer of The Spectacle Factory for the past eight years.

He’s most impressed with the level of detail he can now see.

Ferenc comments: “I always thought my eyesight was quite good until I started wearing glasses in my thirties. I then realised what I had been missing. However, the glasses I have from The Spectacle Factory take this to a whole different level. I am stunned at the level of detail I can now see with the glasses I have from them.”

This is one of the distinguishing features of The Spectacle Factory, as their eye testing procedure is so much more comprehensive than other opticians.

Robert Sands who manages The Spectacle Factory, comments: “People assume all

The Spectacle Factory’s eye test is much more thorough and their ‘I.profiler’ test assesses the unique shape of the eye, which is actually more unique than an individual’s fingerprint!

WE GET TO KNOW EACH INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMER AND CONSIDER WHAT WILL LOOK GOOD ON THEIR FACE, WHAT WILL FIT WELL AND WHICH GLASSES REFLECT THEIR PERSONALITY

This provides a much more objective test based on the customer’s eye and as a result the prescription is 25 times more accurate than a standard test, ensuring the best vision possible for every customer.

As well as a more accurate prescription, The Spectacle Factory also understand that every pair of glasses sits differently on each person’s face. They use their VisuFit 1000 to refine the chosen frame providing the most

comfortable fitting pair of glasses.

Robert believes the process of buying glasses in the UK could be improved.

He states: “Once an eye test is complete people are presented with walls displaying hundreds of pairs of glasses, and they have no idea where to start. It’s completely different at The Spectacle Factory as we get to know each individual customer and consider what will look good on their face, what will fit well and equally importantly, which glasses reflect their personality.

“That way, they only have to choose from a handful of pairs, making the whole process of selecting glasses much more relaxed, fun and stress free.”

Ferenc has three pairs of glasses from The Spectacle Factory – his everyday glasses, sunglasses and safety ones for work.

Safety glasses are vital for certain jobs and research shows that in the US alone there are 3,000 eye injuries a year as people aren’t adequately protected.

Fortunately, the safety glasses at The Spectacle Factory meet all the safety criteria and look like a sporty pair of glasses, rather than the chunky goggle type ones we’re used to seeing. With one pair of glasses providing a combination of safety and the correct vision, customers get the best of both worlds.

The support at The Spectacle Factory continues well after you’ve purchased your glasses.

Robert and his team are keen for the glasses to last as long as possible providing each customer with excellent value. Every six months the glasses are serviced, where they are deep cleaned and all fittings tested ensuring a long-term happy glasses’ wearer.

Robert concludes: “We see glasses as an investment and everything we stock is of superb quality from the top manufacturers and designers in the world. Glasses aren’t just a style statement, we want them to be as comfortable and durable as possible. With Ferenc working away for several months at a time he needs the quality and reliability all our glasses offer.”

As well as being the best glasses he’s ever had, Ferenc’s everyday glasses perfectly reflect his personality, they’re sophisticated, smart and straightforward, just like him! n

WITH THE GLASSES I HAVE FROM THE SPECTACLE FACTORY I AM STUNNED AT THE LEVEL OF DETAIL I CAN NOW SEE

THE ART OF SLEEP:

ELEVATING YOUR NIGHTTIME RITUAL

As we prepare for the clock change at the end of March and the days stretch out longer, there is no better time to refine your sleep habits and embrace a nighttime ritual designed for good quality sleep, as Lisa Artis explains

Sleep is more than just rest. It is the foundation of a balanced, successful and healthy life. Good quality sleep is the ultimate indulgence and, if you can afford the luxuries in life, nothing transforms a good night’s rest into an exquisite experience quite like investing in the finest bedding and sleepwear.

Lisa Artis, deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, understands the transformative power of rest. As a member of the British Sleep Society and Co-Chair of its Communications SubCommittee, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals reclaim the restorative sleep they deserve. Here, she shares expert insights on how to create a refined, luxurious

sleep experience that not only enhances wellbeing but also turns bedtime into a ritual of opulence.

Why Sleep is the Ultimate Luxury

Sleep is often viewed as a necessity, but in truth, it should be treated as an essential pillar of wellbeing. A well-rested body and mind leads to heightened concentration, improved mood, boosted immunity and even youthful skin. More and more people are recognising that investing in sleep is investing in performance, longevity and good health in daily life.

Yet, despite its importance, our modern life often disrupts our natural rhythms, making quality sleep elusive. Factors such as stress, screen exposure and erratic schedules lead to fragmented rest and an inability to switch off. The key to reversing this trend? Creating a perfect sleep environment that exudes calm and relaxation.

The Power of a Bedtime Ritual

Set the Scene: Dim the lights, lower the temperature to an ideal 16-18°C and infuse the air with delicate scents to signal to your body that it’s time to unwind.

AT LEAST AN HOUR BEFORE BED, PUT AWAY DEVICES AND ENGAGE IN CALMING ACTIVITIES SUCH AS READING, JOURNALLING OR LISTENING TO SOFT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

Indulge in Sensory Comfort: A warm, herbal infusion – such as chamomile with a hint of honey – acts as a natural sedative, preparing the body for rest.

Unplug and Unwind: At least an hour before bed, put away devices and engage in

calming activities such as reading, journalling or listening to soft instrumental music.

Elevate Your Bedding: Make sure you have the right tog for the time of year and a supportive pillow can make all the difference to spine alignment and comfort.

Luxury Bedding: The Secret to Supreme Comfort

The pinnacle of refined sleep lies in the materials you surround yourself with. Investing in luxury bedding is not just about aesthetics – it plays a crucial role in sleep quality. Here’s why fabric choice matters:

Egyptian Cotton: Known for its unparalleled softness and durability, Egyptian cotton boasts long fibres that create an ultra-breathable, moisture-wicking experience. Perfect for those who desire hotel-like luxury in their own home.

Silk: Hypoallergenic and temperatureregulating, silk sheets are the ultimate indulgence for both summer and winter, ensuring a cooling effect in warm weather and warmth in the colder months.

Linen: Naturally breathable and effortlessly chic, linen bedding provides a crisp yet inviting texture that softens over time, offering both comfort and timeless style.

Cashmere Throws and

Weighted Blankets:

Adding layers of indulgence, a plush cashmere throw or a weighted blanket delivers a gentle, comforting pressure that enhances relaxation and reduces anxiety.

Adjusting Your Bedtime for the Clock Change

Ahead of the clock changing at the end of March, it’s important to gradually adjust your bedtime to align with the new schedule. In the week leading up to the change, shift your bedtime and wake-up time by 10-15 minutes each night to ease the transition. Exposure to natural light in the morning will help reset your internal clock, while maintaining a consistent evening wind-down routine will reinforce a sense of stability. By making small, incremental adjustments, you can minimise disruption and ensure a seamless transition into the longer days ahead.

Make Sleep Your Signature

Luxury

Let sleep become your most essential investment this year. By cultivating a nighttime ritual that prioritises comfort, elegance, and tranquillity, you will be able to transform bedtime into a truly restorative escape.

Sweet dreams! n

MOUNJARO WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC

Fylde Private Medical’s GP-led Mounjaro Weight Loss Clinic combines medical expertise with preventative health for sustainable weight loss

Fylde Private Medical in Lytham is redefining weight management with its GP-led weight loss clinic, featuring the highly effective Mounjaro weight loss injection. This innovative service goes beyond traditional dieting, offering comprehensive medical support to ensure patients achieve sustainable weight loss while prioritising their overall health.

MOUNJARO: A BREAKTHROUGH IN MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS

As part of the clinic’s commitment to delivering safe, medically supervised weight management, Fylde Private Medical offers the Mounjaro weight loss injection – a globally recognised treatment that helps regulate appetite and improve metabolic function. Designed for patients with a BMI over 27 (with underlying conditions) or 30, Mounjaro provides effective, long-term results beyond diet and exercise alone.

GP-LED PREVENTATIVE HEALTH SUPPORT

At Fylde Private Medical, weight loss isn’t just about shedding pounds – it’s about improving

overall wellbeing. Every patient receives a complimentary full health assessment, which includes:

• GP Consultation: A dedicated one-on-one discussion about your weight loss goals and health concerns.

• BMI Check: Advanced diagnostics to track progress with precision.

• Additional Blood Testing for Preventative Health: Next-day results to monitor key health markers, ensuring a proactive approach to potential health risks such as diabetes, cholesterol levels and cardiovascular issues.

OUR APPROACH IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST WEIGHT LOSS, WE HELP PATIENTS IDENTIFY AND ADDRESS UNDERLYING HEALTH CONCERNS, ULTIMATELY LEADING TO BETTER LONGTERM OUTCOMES

“Our approach is about more than just weight loss,” explains Dr Maharaj, who brings over 15 years’ experience as an NHS GP Principal to the clinic.

“By encouraging regular blood testing and comprehensive health checks, we help patients identify and address underlying

Start your journey today with a free consultation, including a GP health check and BMI assessment.

health concerns, ultimately leading to better long-term outcomes.”

A HOLISTIC, MEDICALLY SUPERVISED APPROACH

To ensure personalised and effective weight loss journeys, Fylde Private Medical also offers:

• Emerald Laser Therapy: A non-invasive fat reduction treatment for targeted contouring.

• Alevera Programme: A medically supervised weight loss plan for patients seeking an alternative to medication.

YOUR HEALTH – YOUR FUTURE

Fylde Private Medical’s weight loss clinic provides a supportive, GP-led environment where patients receive expert medical guidance at every step. With male and female GPs available, 30-minute appointments within 24 hours and a focus on holistic health, the clinic is committed to helping patients regain control of their weight and overall wellbeing. n

Fylde Private Medical

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

info@fyldeprivatemedical.com fyldeprivatemedical.com

Aspecialist and pioneer of Plasma Pen™️ for the North West is Emma Pearce, renowned owner of EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd.

Recognised as an Elite Plasma Technician by Louise Walsh of Plasma Pen International, Emma has transformed countless clients with this cutting-edge treatment.

Here are some comments from EMA’s satisfied clients:

“Previously I had wrinklesmoothing injections and fillers for 13 years, but the long-term effects of these treatments started to show and they weren’t flattering at all. Luckily Emma was able to reverse the damage with Plasma treatment whilst achieving the best anti-ageing results I have ever had.”

Linda S

“I’ve had my full face and neck treated with Plasma Pen, and the results are just remarkable. The best compliment I recently received was from a doctor who was in total disbelief of my age when attending my medical appointment. He said, ‘I didn’t think for a minute you could be my next patient due to your age, what’s your secret?’ I simply said ‘Emma’.”

Christine K

“I’ve had the lower face and full neck Plasma Pen treatment with Emma and the results are bob on. I was a little nervous about having the treatment however as soon as I was with Emma I felt at ease due to her expertise and confidence.”

Patrick K

PLASMA REVOLUTION CONTINUES…

Emma explains: “As we age, the outer skin layer thins and collagen production slows dramatically, leading to sagging, wrinkles and a loss of skin elasticity – essentially, the skin’s ‘scaffolding’ begins to collapse.”

Plasma Pen™️ helps rebuild that structure by stimulating fibroblasts, rejuvenating skin cells and restoring firmness. The result? A lifted, tighter

complexion with visibly reduced wrinkles. Also, the results last up to three years, as the treatment continues to support your skin’s natural regeneration.

With thousands of happy clients, proving it’s never too late to achieve a more youthful skin, it’s time to book in with Emma.

A complimentary consultation is recommended to start your journey in defying age. n

WATCH FOR HIDDEN SUGARS

Sugar isn’t always labelled as ‘sugar’, so it’s worth looking out for sneaky names like:

• High-fructose corn syrup

• Dextrose

• Maltodextrin

• Cane juice

If sugar (or one of its many disguises) is near the top of the ingredient list, it is likely more than your body needs.

BE WARY OF SUGAR-FREE CLAIMS

Many sugar-free products contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, which may disrupt gut bacteria and increase cravings for sweet foods. Since they taste sweet without providing energy, they can confuse hunger signals, possibly making you crave even more sugar. Instead, opt for naturally sweet foods like fruit or honey in moderation.

NUTRITION WITH KELI

FIBRE IS YOUR BALANCE

UPFs are often stripped of fibre, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full. If a product has little to no fibre, it’s likely been heavily processed.

Akitchen filled with nourishing foods makes healthy eating more manageable and more enjoyable. With so many ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on supermarket shelves, it’s easy to overlook what’s really in your cupboard, but small changes can make a big difference. A quick label check can help you swap out the worst offenders for foods that fuel your body, boost your energy and support your well-being. Every smart choice brings you closer to a healthier, happier you!

WHAT ARE UPFs?

Ultra-processed foods contain additives, preservatives and flavour enhancers you’d never use at home. And yes, they’re convenient –I get it! But they often lack essential nutrients and can leave you feeling sluggish. You don’t have to give up convenience to eat better. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy both!

COMMON UPFs:

• Sugary cereals

• Packaged snacks (crisps, protein bars, sweets)

• Soft drinks and energy drinks

• Instant noodles and ready meals

• Processed meats (hot dogs, sausages)

WHY INGREDIENT LABELS MATTER

My goodness, food marketing can be misleading! Labels like ‘healthy’ ‘natural’, ‘high fibre’ or ‘high protein’ don’t always mean a product is good for you. The real truth lies in the ingredient, not the label. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:

KEEP IT SIMPLE

The longer the ingredient list, the more processed the food. If there are lots of unfamiliar ingredients, it’s likely ultraprocessed. Whole foods, on the other hand, have short, simple ingredient lists.

SIMPLE SWAPS

Spring cleaning your diet doesn’t mean giving up convenience, it just means making smarter choices:

• Swap sugary cereals for oats with fresh fruit

• Choose plain Greek full fat yoghurt with honey or berries instead of zero per cent fat, flavoured ones

• Pick wholegrain bread instead of white

• Snack on nuts or popcorn instead of crisps – or, in moderation, find crisps made with olive oil

Make homemade dressings instead of store-bought

Once you start checking labels, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make better choices. It’s not about perfection – it’s about small, sustainable swaps that leave you feeling healthier, more energised and in control of your food choices. Over time, these little changes add up, turning your kitchen into a space filled with nourishing, wholesome foods. n

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli

Nutritionist Keli Thompson explains how small changes can help spring clean your daily diet

THE SOLE FUTURE OF FOOT CARE & BEAUTY

Step into Sole and Beauty and experience a haven of wellness. You’ll find the expertise of HCPC registered podiatrists combined with a wide range of beauty, holistic, physiotherapy and acupuncture services, as Ali Gudgeon finds out

Recognising that foot health is fundamental to overall wellbeing, Sole and Beauty provides specialised care for all your foot-related needs, alongside their complementary beauty offerings. Whether you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail, a painful corn or verucca, or simply seeking preventative foot care, the experienced podiatrists at Sole and Beauty are dedicated to providing personalised treatment and advice. They understand that every foot is unique and requires individual attention. From routine nail care to more complex clinical issues such as Biomechanics, gait analysis and orthotic provision, they offer a range of services to keep your feet healthy and comfortable. Minor foot surgery is also available with Alex. And they are one of only a few clinics to offer the Swift™ technology which uses a microwave energy delivered through a small probe to treat skin lesions in podiatry and dermatology.

Beyond addressing specific foot problems, Sole and Beauty’s podiatry services also focus on preventative care. They offer gait analysis and guidance on proper footwear, foot hygiene and exercises to maintain foot health and prevent future issues.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR SKILLED CLINICIANS FROM BEAUTY THERAPISTS TO PODIATRISTS AND PHYSIOTHERAPISTS TO RENT THE ROOMS AND JOIN OUR FRIENDLY TEAM

But Sole and Beauty is more than just a podiatry clinic – it’s a place where you can indulge in a complete pampering experience. Just a short walk from the nearby Royal Preston Hospital, they offer a full range of beauty treatments to enhance your wellbeing from head to toe. Treat your nails to a gel polish with Daria. Let experienced masseuse Zhor get rid of your knots with a relaxing back massage. Or let holistic therapist Sue kickstart your body’s natural healing mechanisms with theragem crystal light therapy. Sue also offers massage with hot stones, reiki and reflexology.

Alex Austin owns the business and is a qualified and skilled podiatrist. She explains: “We offer the highest standard of healthcare

available and our reputation has grown extensively recently. With everything from traditional podiatry and physiotherapy to acupuncture and beauty treatments, this demand means we are now looking for skilled clinicians from beauty therapists to podiatrists and physiotherapists to rent the rooms and join our friendly team.”

Located in a busy hub in Fulwood, with a pharmacy across the road and the hospital a short walk away, the health and beauty clinic offers a great location and with free parking. Any clinician looking to rent a room and join the team should contact Alex on 01772 716500.

Sole and Beauty prides itself on providing a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, where clients can feel comfortable and pampered. Their team of experienced professionals is committed to providing personalised care and using high-quality products to ensure the best possible results. Whether you’re seeking expert foot care, a quick beauty touch-up, or a pampering session, Sole and Beauty is your one-stop shop for wellness and beauty in Preston. n

Sole and Beauty

333 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9UP 01772 716500

soleandbeauty.com

Open Monday to Saturday

Close your eyes and imagine your life without the thing or person you’re struggling to let go of. Visualise the space it creates, the weight lifted off your shoulders and the new opportunities that arise. Use this visualisation to remind yourself of the benefits of moving forward.

PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR LETTING GO

Physical clutter:

• Tackle one area at a time. This makes the process less overwhelming and helps you make steady progress.

• Label three boxes as keep, donate and throw. As you sort through items, decide which box each item belongs in. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, question whether you need it.

MIND MATTERS

You can unlock your true potential by taking practical steps to overcome what is holding you back, advises therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes

Do you feel stuck, like the wheels are spinning but you’re not moving forward? It’s a frustrating place to be and it can affect both your mental and physical well-being. Feeling stuck often leads to a sense of helplessness and negativity. To truly be happy and fulfilled, you need to align with your own values and desires, rather than conforming to what others expect of you. So, let’s dive into three essential steps to help you break free and embrace your true potential.

IDENTIFY WHAT NO LONGER SERVES YOU

This process can be simple in theory but challenging in practice.

Physical clutter: Look around your home and identify items that no longer serve a purpose. Emotional baggage: This refers to unresolved feelings, grudges or limiting beliefs that weigh you down.

Unfulfilling relationships: Evaluate your relationships and identify those that are toxic or draining. This could include friends, family members or colleagues who consistently bring negativity into your life.

UNDERSTAND WHY LETTING GO IS DIFFICULT

Letting go is more than just deciding to move on – it’s a deeply emotional process. Often, it feels safer to hold on to what we know, even if it’s not serving us well. Our brains are wired to seek comfort and familiarity, leading us to cling to ‘the devil we know’ rather than facing the uncertainty of change.

Common excuses that keep us stuck include:

• Fear of future regret

Belief that things might improve with time

To overcome these barriers, you need to challenge your thoughts and embrace the possibility of change. Start by reframing the situation as an opportunity for growth rather than loss. Ask yourself how your life could improve if you let go of these burdens. Visualise the positive changes and how they could enhance your well-being.

Relationships:

• Write down the names of people who drain your energy or make you feel bad. Reflect on what specifically makes these relationships unfulfilling.

• Limit the time you spend with these individuals or avoid certain conversations that lead to negativity. Determine if you need to gradually distance yourself or make a clean break.

• If needed, consult a counsellor to navigate complex dynamics and gain perspective.

Emotional baggage:

• Write down any beliefs that hold you back, such as ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’ll never succeed’. Challenge these beliefs by asking if they are based on fact or external programming.

• Replace limiting beliefs with positive affirmations. For example, ‘I am capable of growth’. Regularly practice affirmations and visualisations that align with your desired life.

Letting go is not about losing something but about gaining freedom to embrace new possibilities. Be kind to yourself along the way and celebrate your progress as you move towards a brighter future. n

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

START YOUR SMILE JOURNEY START YOUR SMILE JOURNEY

A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE

The phrase ‘Northern Grit’ is personified by one woman and her passionate belief in the arts, on an incredible journey which has seen her star rise to critical acclaim over a career spanning more than 40 years, writes Katie Hammond. Photography: Jo Greenfield

It’s hard to imagine that the whole artistic and cultural landscape of the north of England could be forged and evolved by one lone, dogged and passionate pioneer of the arts, but that’s

exactly what Christine Cort has achieved –and all from humble beginnings as a gas fitter’s daughter from Blackburn.

Today, Christine is decorated with countless plaudits, including being listed in the top

100 influential women in the North West in 2019 and the special recognition for commitment to culture award in 2021 (The Sunday Times Alternative Rich List also featured her as someone who ‘cares about the important stuff in life’). The 2025 King’s Honours List has now delivered what she terms as her ‘ultimate honour’ – an OBE for her commitment and contributions to the Arts.

Christine’s story began in the traditional Lancashire mill town where her grandmother

was a weaver and her grandfather played football for Blackburn Rovers.

I’D SEE PEOPLE LIKE KENNETH BRANAGH, EMMA THOMPSON AND BRYAN FERRY AROUND THE BUILDING AND IT WAS JUST AMAZING TO BE SURROUNDED BY ALL THIS CREATIVITY

After a short spell in Liverpool where she says she ‘fell in love with music’ in her late teens, London called in the early 80s when Christine landed a junior role at Riverside Studios.

She recalls: “Arts and Culture became my life and I loved learning about every single aspect. I’d see people like Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson and Bryan Ferry around the building and it was just amazing to be surrounded by all this creativity.”

Next came a short spell working for Terence Conran, before Christine was head hunted by the team at the iconic ‘Time Out’ magazine, quickly moving through the ranks to eventually take on the role of Group Marketing Director and becoming responsible for product launches across the globe.

When son Jack was born, returning to her roots was a natural step for the proud northerner, but what was planned as a small hiatus was quickly turned on its head when Christine took on what would be her biggest legacy to date – the Manchester International Festival (MIF).

And as they say, the rest is history. MIF went on to become one of the most successful cultural and Arts events globally, staging world premieres and previously unseen work by artists and musicians of all genres, bringing in visitors from more than 50 countries and generating in excess of £50 million for the local economy in Manchester. Its success preceded and secured the construction of the multi-use Arts venue The Factory on the site of the old Granada Studios – the largest capital arts project outside of London.

After 16 years at the helm of MIF, Christine could be forgiven for wanting to take things a little easier. But, it seems, this was far from her plans, after becoming involved in another

cultural project, this time the vision of her now good friend, Ben Casey.

She explains: “Ben asked me to take a look at a space he was interested in developing in the heart of Preston. The moment I saw the potential of the former window factory, I knew I wanted to help him realise his vision.

WE ARE ALSO BUILDING A CULTURAL DESTINATION IN THIS PART OF TOWN WHICH WILL BE CALLED MARKET STREET SOCIAL

“A year on and it is home to incredible artisan food vendors and independent traders and is not only a welcoming community meeting space, but also a true cultural destination, putting a disused and previously quiet area of the city firmly back on the map.

“Establishing Chew’s Yard is part of the first phase and Ben’s next plans include creating a pub on the theme of the Battle of Preston. We are also building a cultural destination in this part of town which will be called Market Street Social.”

Reflecting on her amazing life, Christine is adamant that the running theme of her drive and success has been her treasured family and the people she has worked with along the way: “I’m lucky enough to have worked with the most talented people throughout my career. To see the people I love, including my incredible son, flourish and grow in their careers whilst with me on my journey has been my driving force –it’s truly life affirming.” n

A NEW ERA OF LUXURY AND ELEGANCE

Set in the scenic heart of Lancashire, Barton Manor Hotel & Spa blends historic charm with modern luxury. Once a grand manor built in 1900, this fabulous four-star retreat is now entering a new era with the unveiling of its stunning extension, as Ali Gudgeon discovers. Photography: Michael Porter

Barton Manor Hotel & Spa has long been a destination for those seeking respite and rejuvenation. With 57 existing bedrooms, a serene pool, a well-equipped gym, a pampering spa, fantastic function rooms and the culinary artistry of Head Chef Chris Tomlinson, the hotel has already established itself as a premier retreat. But the latest addition elevates the Barton Manor experience to an entirely new level, ushering in an era of unparalleled luxury and relaxation.

In its latest chapter, Barton Manor Hotel & Spa’s brand-new bedroom extension introduces 46 beautifully designed rooms, each a sanctuary of comfort and style. From executive patio rooms to luxurious junior suites, these meticulously crafted rooms offer private patio doors leading to either a secluded outdoor

space or a private balcony, providing guests with the perfect setting to savour the breathtaking views of Beacon Fell or the Fylde coast. Imagine waking to the gentle sounds of nature, stepping out onto your balcony with a morning coffee, and soaking in the panoramic vistas that stretch before you.

THE ARCHITECTURAL HIGHLIGHT OF THIS EXPANSION IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE MAGNIFICENT PALAZZO –A STRIKING GLASS WALKWAY THAT SEAMLESSLY BLENDS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN WITH THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF THE MANOR

Every room features high-end amenities designed to enhance the guest experience, including complimentary robes and slippers, Temple Spa toiletries, a Nespresso coffee machine, a mini bar and a large flat-screen TV. The rooms are fully airconditioned, ensuring a comfortable stay no matter the season.

The architectural highlight of this expansion is undoubtedly the magnificent

palazzo – a striking glass walkway that seamlessly blends contemporary design with the timeless elegance of the manor. The palazzo’s translucent design invites natural light to flood the space, creating an airy, serene atmosphere that is perfect for everything from enjoying a fine meal to reflecting in peaceful solitude.

Andrea Burton, Barton Manor’s General Manager, explains: “Our commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience is evident in every detail. From the luxurious furnishings and premium amenities to the impeccable service provided by the dedicated staff, every aspect of the hotel is designed to create a sense of refined comfort. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing spa break, a romantic getaway, a corporate event or a special celebration, Barton Manor offers an escape from the everyday – a place where you can unwind, rejuvenate and truly relax.”

SPECIAL ATTENTION HAS BEEN GIVEN TO CREATING A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT, WITH HEDGEHOG HOMES AND BAT BOXES BEING INTEGRATED INTO THE LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Guests can indulge in the hotel’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the inviting indoor pool, well-equipped gym, and tranquil spa area. Barton Manor’s commitment to wellness is further emphasised by the hotel’s focus on sustainability, seen not only in the eco-friendly initiatives throughout the property but also in the newly landscaped gardens and wildflower patio. Special attention has been given to creating a sustainable environment, with hedgehog homes and bat boxes being integrated into the landscape design.

Culinary delights await at Barton Manor’s Walled Garden restaurant, where Head Chef Chris Tomlinson and his team create exquisite dishes using the finest local ingredients. From elegant dining to more casual fare, the menu offers a variety of options to tantalise your taste buds.

There are some exciting opening offers available to celebrate the expansion, including special room rates, spa and dining credits, late check outs and a complimentary bottle of prosecco for the room. Keep an eye on the website for all the latest offers www.bartonmanorhotel.co.uk

The addition of the new extension and the stunning palazzo further solidifies Barton Manor’s position as a premier destination in

Lancashire. It’s a place where history and modernity intertwine, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance and contemporary luxury.

Whether you’re a returning guest eager to experience the new enhancements or a first-time visitor seeking an unforgettable escape, Barton Manor invites you to discover a world of refined comfort and unparalleled hospitality. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Barton Manor for yourself. n

Barton Manor Hotel & Spa

746-768 Garstang Road

Barton, Preston PR3 5AA 01772 862551

bartonmanorhotel.co.uk

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

CHAMPIONING ANIMAL WELFARE

The RSPCA has had a presence in Preston since 1874 and celebrated 150 years of animal welfare in the city last year. Preston’s animal centre is housed in Ribbleton, providing a safe environment to abandoned, neglected or abused animals, nursing them back to health, rehabilitating them and finding them their forever home. Claire, branch manager, explains: “The Preston branch is a self-funding branch, separate to the National Society and therefore relies on the generosity of the local community to continue our important welfare work. We focus on cats and dogs only. The centre is one of 135 branches across England and Wales and we successfully rehomed 104 cats and 43 dogs last year.”

As a separately registered charity, Preston’s RSPCA has to do all their own fundraising – this is supported by three charity shops in Penwortham, Chorley and Longridge. With monthly running costs of the branch totalling around £45,000, the charity shops help support the branch by selling second hand goods. All donations of saleable goods are welcomed or if you have any spare time you may like to volunteer at one of the shops.

While the National Society is fighting for animal rights laws and rescuing animal victims of cruelty and neglect, the individual branches, like Preston’s animal centre, are the ones doing the groundwork with the rescued cats and dogs.

The rehabilitation work at Preston’s RSPCA is a crucial part of their mission. Manager Ashleigh explains: “Our rehabilitation efforts involve comprehensive medical care, behaviour training and socialisation. We ensure that each animal receives the attention and care they need to overcome their past traumas and prepare for a new loving home.”

In addition to running the centre and preparing the animals for rehabilitation, there is the ongoing maintenance required of what is an old building which comes with its own issues. Tanya, branch

Meet Alvin, the five-year-old bull Lurcher who’s currently up for adoption. Visit rspca-preston.org.uk for more details.

administrator, shares: “Maintaining the facility is a continuous task. We are constantly working on repairs and improvements to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for our animals. We often rely on the local generosity of joiners and gardeners for example to help out when they can. We’re actually on the lookout for a maintenance volunteer and a groundsman/gardener volunteer at the moment.”

The Preston branch remains steadfast in its mission to protect and nurture animals in need, offering them a second chance at life. The community’s support is invaluable and, with a new full board of local trustees due to step up, the future looks promising for RSPCA Preston and the animals they care for.

rspca-preston.org.uk

RSPCA Preston & District Branch Ribbleton Lane, Preston 01772 792553

THE END OF NEW LEASEHOLD PROPERTIES?

Changes are potentially on the horizon for the UK’s sometimes controversial tenure system, explains Graeme Booth, conveyancing solicitor at Farleys

The government has proposed changes to the tenure (ownership) system in England and Wales in order to make commonhold the default ownership option for flats and to extend it to mixed-use buildings and shared ownership homes.

Commonhold is a form of ownership, like freehold and leasehold. It’s currently used for multi-occupancy developments such as apartments where each flat owner owns the freehold of their property, whilst a commonhold or residents’ association owns and manages the common parts of the property.

Commonhold first came into place in England and Wales in 2002 but the government acknowledges that, so far, it has failed to be

used as a widespread form of homeownership.

So, in 2020, the Law Commission completed a report that looked into revitalising the use of commonhold as an alternative to leasehold ownership.

Five years later, the government has now proposed its plans on how the reformed commonhold model will work and its aims for establishing commonhold as the default tenure in England and Wales.

The upcoming Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill will set out a legal framework for how the reformed commonhold will work.

The government has also proposed a ban on leasehold flats, but there will be a consultation on this later in the year to iron out the practicalities and create a plan on how a ban could be implemented. This is not the first time a government has promised reform in this area, so it will be interesting to see how far the proposals get this time around.

Commonhold is generally seen as a more attractive option for tenure than a leasehold, as it provides more control over the management of a property and doesn’t come with obligations to pay ground rent. That being said, some conveyancers are concerned that this will result in more developments being managed by the flatowners themselves rather than through freeholder-appointed managing agents,

which could impact not only compliance with statutory requirements relating to common areas but also the conveyancing process when obtaining management information during sales.

The revival of this issue appears to coincide with widespread discontent amongst leaseholders with what is perceived to be the rapacious behaviour of some managing agents. Some conveyancers believe that the issues relating to the management of apartment blocks would be better addressed by the introduction of regulation for the block management industry, placing restrictions on the fees that can be charged and enforcing timescales within which requests for information need to be dealt with.

But what does this mean for buyers and sellers of existing leasehold properties? News of these reforms has received a mixed reaction with some welcoming the proposed changes, while others are concerned that the phasing out of the leasehold tenure option will diminish the value of properties already held as leasehold. The biggest obstacle for commonhold at present though, is that the vast majority of mortgage lenders in England and Wales will not lend against commonhold properties.

Commonhold tenures seem to work successfully overall in other parts of the world, such as North America, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland and across Europe, so it will be interesting to see if their success can be replicated in the property industry here. As a conveyancing solicitor, I’ll be keeping a close eye on things to be able to provide accurate information to property buyers. n

To discuss the purchase or sale of a property, get in touch with Farleys’ conveyancing specialists on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com or visit: farleys.com

SPRING IN THE FYLDE

As Spring has sprung and the days get longer, Tim Dixon, Fylde Council’s Tourism and Cultural Services Manager, highlights what’s on in the Fylde

Spring is always a great time to be out and about here in the Fylde – the blossoms on the trees, the warmer weather, picnics in the park or on Lytham Green for example. Time on the beach, a walk along the coast such as Promenade Gardens in St Annes or the grounds of Lytham Hall, a day in the fantastic St Annes Beach Huts and so much more. New this year and well worth a visit is the new free to visit Fylde Gallery at Lytham Hall – open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10am to 4pm. This offers the chance to see some of the paintings in the Lytham St Annes Art Collection, celebrating its 100th year in 2025. These paintings are normally on show at Fylde

Council Town Hall in St Annes and only able to be seen on Heritage Open Days each autumn.

However, this new facility has a yearround exhibition programme – at present there is an exhibition entitled Centenary celebrating 100 years of the art collection

NEW THIS YEAR AND WELL WORTH A VISIT IS THE NEW FREE TO VISIT FYLDE GALLERY AT LYTHAM HALL –OPEN THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS 10AM TO 4PM

and from mid-May, there’s an exhibition entitled Savage Beauty featuring paintings by Richard Ansdell who has a strong local connection (the area of Ansdell was even named after him). More details can be found on the website.

Coming soon too is the new multi-millionpound state of the art extension at the Lowther

Pavilion – The Windmill Performance & Education Centre Studio, which offers a new community space, an outdoor classroom and so much more. It’s been coming together over the past few years and this really will be a leap forward for the only dedicated theatre in Fylde Borough. Keep an eye on the Lowther Pavilion website for more details and programmed performances.

At Fairhaven Lake and Gardens there’s a new jetty to improve the boat service with more work planned over the coming year around the lake, including new fencing and improvements to the buildings. Plus, there’s the lighting of the beacon on the evening of 8th to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a planned programme of entertainment too. Keep an eye on the website for the range of upcoming activities and events at Fairhaven Lake – the team there work hard to put on a programme to cater for a wide audience and again this year among many events, there’s the popular Dragon Boat Racing back on 17th May in partnership with the Blue Skies Charity. And congratulations must go to the recent winners in Fylde at the Lancashire Tourism Awards – The Spitfire Visitor Centre at Blackpool Airport, Staining Lodge Golf Course and the Folk, Roots & Maritime Festival at the Lowther Pavilion, plus a host of other finalists including Ribby Hall Village and the Lytham 1940s Weekend. n

For more information on what’s coming up, or things to do, visit: discoverfylde.co.uk

A TROPICAL PARADISE AWAITS

Preston-based travel expert, Joanne Wilson, looks at the Caribbean island of Barbados where beautiful beaches and exciting island adventures await

As the new season springs to life and we approach the Easter holidays, for many people getting the family together is top of their list of things to do and what better way to make memories than to take a special trip.

Luckily, whatever the weather here in the UK the sun continues to shine on an ever-popular holiday destination nestled in the Caribbean sea. And with a ‘dry’ season spanning from December to June, Barbados offers the perfect getaway for all generations.

This iconic island isn’t just about striking beaches and crystal-clear seas, it’s also a hub of adventure and discovery. Whether your

family loves thrills and spills, or taking it slow to soak up the scenery, there is a host of activities to delight all ages and abilities. If your family loves a mix of nature and excitement, the Harrison’s Cave EcoAdventure Park is the place to start. Here, kids aged six and up (and grown-ups too!) can soar 100 feet above the forest on the Monkey Zipline. With panoramic views of the island, it’s a high-flying, adrenaline-packed adventure you won’t forget.

WIDE PANORAMIC WINDOWS GIVE EVERYONE A FRONT-ROW VIEW OF VIBRANT CORAL REEFS, MAJESTIC TURTLES GLIDING PAST, TROPICAL FISH DARTING ABOUT AND EVEN A HISTORIC SHIPWRECK, OR TWO

Further adventures lie in discovering the island’s natural beauty and local crafts. Stroll through the botanical garden of the Flower Forest and marvel at its explosion of colours and exotic blooms. With stroller-friendly paths, it’s perfect for little feet and wheels alike. Then, swap sunshine for a magical underground experience as you hop on a tram ride through Harrison’s Cave, a natural wonder that was unknown until the 18th century. Next, head to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, one of the best places to see the island’s fauna as it used to be. The ‘caves and critters’ tour is aimed at

families, making it a great option to entertain young and more experienced travellers alike.

Another great option is the Victorian steam railway to Cherry Tree Hill, which is run by St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway and features a narrated ride around the abbey grounds. The view from the steam train seat lets you admire the 17th-century Great House, woodlands and spectacular Atlantic views.

Last but not least, dive into Barbados’ amazing marine life without even getting wet. The Atlantis Submarine Tour lets you descend 150 feet below the surface to uncover a hidden underwater world from the comfort of an air-conditioned submarine. Wide panoramic windows give everyone a front-row view of vibrant coral reefs, majestic turtles gliding past, tropical fish darting about and even a historic shipwreck, or two.

So, if the UK weather lets us down, this Caribbean gem offers the chance to head to sunnier climes, with fun for all the family. n

Contact me for more information on Barbados family holidays and all getaways to the Caribbean.

Joanne Wilson 01772 915645

joanne.wilson@travelcounsellors.com travelcounsellors.co.uk/joanne.wilson

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

Local writer and walking enthusiast, Steve Garrill, guides us on a Lytham Ansdell circular route, perfect for Spring

From St Annes railway station, walk into St Annes and turn right up Garden Street (where the former JR Taylors is being redeveloped into a Spa Hotel). Cross straight over to enter into Ashton Gardens and pass to the right of the excellent Pavilion Café. Explore the beautiful gardens before returning to the war memorial and leaving on the main path to Clifton Drive. Turn left and, at the lights, turn right towards the pier. Turn right at the end and then cross over to walk through the Peace and Happiness Gardens (known to locals as the Les Dawson Gardens). Walk back past the pier and onto the sea front path. Pass the lifeboat memorial on the left before bearing right past the Lifeboat Station. Continue to pass the beach huts, bear left then drop down the steps to walk along the beach. When you reach Fairhaven go up the steps, turn left and then right down into the gardens. Turn sharp left across the top of the lake to pass the Spitfire memorial. Please pause to read the information.

Continue past the café to the end and up the ramp. Turn left and cross the road to walk up Marine Drive (Fairhaven public house on the right). Turn left then cross the zebra crossing to walk up Woodlands Road. Turn left onto Kingsway, HYGGE café is on the corner. Turn right and then left onto Arundel Road

which runs parallel to the railway. Pass a road junction then turn right to cross the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club course. The course is currently undergoing massive changes but will be ready for the Lytham trophy, a top international event, in May. It will host the Women’s Open in 2026 and it is hoped that The Open will return within the next few years (thanks to Andrew Warburton for this information).

At the end of the path continue straight ahead on the road and turn left down Central Drive (a cul-de-sac where Churchill’s secret wartime house was located). At the end continue on the path which runs alongside the golf course. Continue onto Beauclerk Road which at the end bears left and briefly becomes a path.

Turn left onto Links Gate which overlooks the golf. Bear right at the Club House then left and second right onto St David’s Road South. Continue to the traffic lights, turn left and walk over The Crescent and back into St Annes Square. n

For more local walks and local history please see Walks from the South Fylde Line. Signed copies £9.95 from Plackitt & Booth, Lytham and Storytellers, St Annes on Sea.

A little help… goes a long way

To

To

To

TAKING CARE…

It’s no secret that the team at Helping Hands take an ultimately caring and efficient approach in all the services they offer

While Helping Hands is known for its immaculate domestic and commercial cleaning, the company also offers a range of other services – offering the same levels of enthusiasm and care for which the team are renowned.

Taking a holistic, practical approach, this long-established company is able to personalise each and every service it offers – whether that’s cleaning large-scale prestigious commercial premises, family homes, handyman services or providing caring support to the elderly or infirm.

HOME HELP SUPPORT

Helping Hands’ Home Help support service may take the form of long-term care that varies from week to week, or short-term providing respite for families, who need a break but desperately want to keep loved ones at home.

While the service doesn’t include personal or physical care, Helping Hands’ Home Help team can provide whatever is needed with a ‘family-style’ approach.

Helping Hands founder Suzanne Waring explains: “We ask people specifically, ‘What do they need?’ It’s a very tailored service that we provide. Virtually every client is different.

THERE IS A HUGE NUMBER OF PATIENTS IN HOSPITAL THAT CAN’T COME HOME BECAUSE THEY HAVEN’T GOT THE SUPPORT THEY NEED

“It might be making them a sandwich or checking if they have taken medication, or it might be just sitting and chatting over a cup of tea.

“We can enable people to keep their loved ones at home, in the knowledge that they have the additional support they need.

“We have an elderly client who is cared for by his wife, who is a keen golfer. We go in to care for him so she can play a round of golf knowing he is safe and being looked after. It gives carers some normality in their life.”

“If a client wants two hours of our time that’s what they get. We offer a full value for money service.

“Each client may present different challenges –they may be elderly, infirm, have dementia or simply need help in getting out and about. We can do that and it can make a huge difference to a client and to their family in terms of peace of mind.”

Offering long or short-term support, Helping Hands’ Home Help support service includes:

• Companionship and conversations

• Transportation and days out

• Attending appointments

• Crafting and hobbies

• Meal preparation and encouragement eating

• Medication prompts

• Order and collection of prescriptions

• Full housekeeping services

• Bed making and changing

• Full laundry and sewing alterations

• Handyman and gardening services

• Shopping and pack-away services

• Cognitive stimulation

• Social interaction

• Support with form filling.

• Short-term respite care to enable families or carers to take a break

• Support settling in after a hospital stay, ensuring the home is warm and food supplies are sufficient.

• Additional support after surgery and convalescence

Suzanne adds: “The family-style Home Help support service is an area that gives me great satisfaction. So many people are in need of caring support and this is what we pride ourselves on.

“There is also huge number of patients in hospital taking up much-needed beds because they haven’t got the support they need at home. The team can provide this support.”

LAUNDRY & SEWING ALTERATIONS

With dedicated premises, Helping Hands has an efficient laundry, ironing and sewing alterations service – the laundry aspect being particularly popular as the team offers a collection, delivery and a put-away service too. All washing and ironing is done in the traditional way and when it’s delivered back they will hang in the wardrobe or fold and store if the client wishes.

DOMESTIC CLEANING/ HOUSEKEEPING

Helping Hands has a vast array of loyal

clients for whom they do many and varied household chores. From a full spring clean to regular maintenance cleaning, the team makes light work of all the jobs you ask them to do.

Prior to putting their homes up for sale, many people have a full clean to ensure their property is clutter-free, smelling fresh and in tip top condition for prospective buyers to view.

COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY

Helping Hands carries out laundry services for many businesses, including holiday homes, hotels and restaurants and can even support them in the short or long term with housekeeping services: “We can fill in the gaps if they are short-staffed,” says Suzanne.

COMMERCIAL CLEANING

Suzanne and the team offer single or multi-site commercial cleaning services

ONE AND ONLY…

A private, family-run business, the Helping Hands Group Ltd, was founded 26 years ago and is owned and run by Suzanne Waring, who says: “I started my business, working alone with my mop and bucket and a handful of loyal clients and we have grown to a team of over 30! I am flattered that many try to emulate my business but there’s only one Helping Hands Group Ltd.”

for businesses across Lancashire. While this can be more complex than residential cleaning, Helping Hands has stepped up to provide teams that can deal with security and the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of large commercial organisations. With a team of 30, work can begin as early as 4.30am meaning everything is ship-shape by the time they open for business.

HOUSE CLEARANCES

Helping Hands supports many families and solicitors in arranging full house clearances, whether that’s taking items to be recycled, to charity shops or to the refuse centre.

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Helping Hands provides an invaluable handyman service to enable clients get those niggling jobs done like changing light bulbs, replacing door handles and mending leaky taps – all the chores that clients may not feel up to doing, but don’t require a professional. Give the team a call, explain what’s needed and Helping Hands will fix-it!

GARDENING

Whether you need a lawn mowing, the leaves blowing or a more comprehensive spring clean of the garden Helping Hands can offer many and varied services that will keep your outdoor space in tip-top shape. n

Helping Hands Group Suite 101, Daisyfield Business Centre Appleby Street, Blackburn BB1 3BL 01254 812144 thehelpinghandsgroup.co.uk

CENTRE YOURSELF WITH RETAIL THERAPY

With its charming waterfront location, Affinity Lancashire stands as a beacon for both locals and visitors seeking a unique shopping experience

The popular daytime outlet shopping centre offers a diverse array of branded stores, events and amenities that make it a must-visit destination for families, fashionistas and even furry companions. As the warmer months approach, Affinity Lancashire is gearing up for a series of free events that promise to delight and entertain.

This April, during the school holidays from the 8th to the 21st, the centre will come alive with activities including a visiting farm and a special appearance by Peter Rabbit himself,

who will be hosting an engaging gardening workshop. May will continue the fun with events running over the half-term break from the 24th to the 31st, as well as on Early May Bank Holiday Monday, the 5th of May.

OVER 25 STORES WITHIN THE CENTRE WELCOME DOGS INSIDE, MAKING IT EASY FOR PET OWNERS TO BROWSE AND SHOP WITHOUT LEAVING THEIR FURRY FRIENDS BEHIND

But the excitement doesn’t end there. July marks a milestone for Affinity Lancashire, as the centre celebrates its 30th birthday. Plans are already underway for a grand celebration, which promises to be a memorable event for the entire community. Keep an eye on the centre’s website and social media channels

for announcements and updates on all upcoming events.

One of the main draws of Affinity Lancashire is its impressive outlet shopping, where savvy shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 60 per cent off on a wide range of products. From fashion and accessories to home goods and more, there’s something for everyone and great deals to be found at this retail haven.

At Affinity Lancashire, shopping with your canine companion is not only welcomed but encouraged. The centre prides itself on being dog-friendly, offering amenities such as free poop bag dispensers and water stations throughout the premises. Over 25 stores within the centre welcome dogs inside, making it easy for pet owners to browse and shop without leaving their furry friends behind. Additionally, several cafes within the centre also allow dogs inside, providing the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a bite to eat with your four-legged pal.

Adding to the allure of Affinity Lancashire is the anticipation of a new store set to join the centre’s impressive lineup. While the details remain under wraps for now, shoppers can look forward to the arrival of an exciting new addition that promises to enhance the already diverse shopping experience.

So, whether you’re hunting for bargains, attending an event, or spending quality time with your dog, Affinity Lancashire is the place to be. Be sure to visit and discover all that this wonderful destination has to offer. n

Affinity Lancashire

Anchorage Road Fleetwood FY7 6AE

01253 877377

affinitylancashire.com

CELEBRATING MUM

Mother’s Day, a day of flowers, cards and heartfelt appreciation, falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, a date that shifts annually, distinct from the May celebrations in many other countries. But where did this tradition spring from and how did it evolve into the cherished day we know today?

Its roots lie not in commercialism, but in the religious observance of ‘Mothering Sunday’. In the 16th century, Lent was a time of fasting and reflection and ‘Mothering Sunday’ offered a brief respite. It was a day when people, particularly those working as domestic servants, were allowed to return to their ‘mother’ church – often their parish church – and, by extension, their family homes.

This annual pilgrimage was a rare opportunity for families to reunite. Servants, often sent far from home at a young age, would take the day off to visit their mothers, bringing with them ‘mothering cakes’ or ‘simnel cakes,’ a rich fruit cake topped with marzipan balls, a symbolic offering of love and gratitude.

As the centuries passed, the religious significance of Mothering Sunday gradually waned but the tradition of family reunions and expressions of maternal appreciation endured. By the early 20th century, the day was experiencing a revival, fuelled by

the efforts of Constance Smith, a tireless advocate for the tradition. Inspired by the American Mother’s Day, Smith sought to

IT’S A DAY TO REFLECT ON THEIR UNWAVERING SUPPORT, UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND THE COUNTLESS SACRIFICES THEY MAKE

rekindle the British custom, emphasising the importance of honouring mothers and their contributions to family life.

The First World War played a significant role in solidifying Mother’s Day as a national celebration. With families separated by conflict, the day became a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between mothers and their children. Florists and card manufacturers, recognising the emotional significance of the occasion, began to promote the day, further cementing its place in the national calendar.

Today, Mother’s Day is a blend of historical traditions and modern expressions of love. While the religious connotations of Mothering Sunday have largely faded, the core message of gratitude and appreciation for mothers remains strong. The simnel cake, though still enjoyed by some, has been joined by a variety of other gifts, from flowers and chocolates to spa days and afternoon tea.

Whether it’s a simple handwritten card or an elaborate family gathering, Mother’s Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the vital role mothers play in our lives. It’s a day to reflect on their unwavering support, unconditional love and the countless sacrifices they make. From its humble origins as a day of religious observance to its modern incarnation as a national celebration, Mother’s Day continues to be a testament to the enduring power of maternal love. n

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EDUCATION NEWS

RUGBY FINAL AWAITS

The Stonyhurst College 1st XV Rugby Squad has secured a spot in the Lancashire Schools Cup Finals for the second consecutive year after a stunning Semi-Final victory against Scarisbrick Hall School. Their skill and unity on the pitch were outstanding, following in the footsteps of last year’s champions. This remarkable achievement reflects the strength and commitment that define Stonyhurst rugby, a program built on teamwork, resilience and a deep commitment to excellence. The squad continues to represent the values of the school, both on and off the field, with exceptional sportsmanship.

UNIVERSITY AND LOCAL HOSPICE JOIN FORCES

Two well-known institutions in Lancashire have joined forces to help support people with life shortening illnesses. The University of Central Lancashire and St Catherine’s Hospice have signed a strategic partnership agreement to strengthen the positive impact being made between the two organisations. The mutually beneficial partnership will see the charity become a University Hospice and it aims to improve patient care through education  and research. It will provide learning opportunities for clinical and non-clinical students in the hospice setting and will also create development opportunities for hospice staff.

PUPILS ENJOY CYBER EDUCATION WEEK

Pupils from secondary schools visited Runshaw College, Cardinal Newman College and Preston College to spend the day taking part in all sorts of different cyber activities as part of the Lancashire Cyber Festival. Leader of the county council, Phillippa Williamson, said: “Lancashire’s cyber education week, which is part of the 2025 Lancashire Cyber Festival, has given thousands of young people at different stages of education the chance to experience the exciting skills and job opportunities which are offered by Lancashire’s growing cyber sector.”

CAREERS FAIR SUCCESS

The Careers, University and Apprenticeships fair at Westholme School was a tremendous success, with over 800 attendees gaining invaluable insights from various professionals and education experts. The event sparked enthusiasm, helping students explore potential career paths. Westholme also hosted a Senior Open Morning, offering prospective families a chance to experience the school’s vibrant community first-hand. Continuing to expand all the school offers to their community, Science Saturday was a thrilling day of hands-on experiments and discoveries, while the Maths Stretch and Challenge event on 26th March will provide children with opportunities to tackle advanced problems and expand their problem-solving skills. These events underscore the school’s commitment to holistic education.

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BRIGHT FUTURES

At Stonyhurst College, practical and proactive support is consistently available for pupils exploring future opportunities

Taking a unique approach, Stonyhurst College offers a totally tailored curriculum for each Higher Line (Sixth Form) pupil, drawing on their individual interests and academic strengths.

Awarded the Quality in Careers Standard, Stonyhurst’s Careers Department has forged a reputation for unrivalled excellence. Higher Line pupils are provided with numerous and diverse opportunities to explore potential careers, while being continually supported by a team dedicated to preparing them for a life that reflects the school’s Jesuit ethos of ‘creating men and women for others’.

“At Stonyhurst we take a very holistic approach to education,” explains Lorraine Wright, Deputy Head Academic.

“We shape individuals who can go into

WE FIND A SOLUTION THAT BRINGS OUT THE STRENGTHS OF EACH INDIVIDUAL CHILD

the world and make a positive impact. It’s not just about academia and exams. While pupils are in a position of privilege, they know they have a duty to help others.”

Unlike most schools which only offer A level qualifications, Sixth Form pupils at Stonyhurst have the choice of three distinct pathways. Along with traditional A levels, the College offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) plus the Cambridge Technical Diploma (CTEC) – providing pupils with the flexibility to choose the academic journey that best fits their career goals and aspirations.

“We don’t have a stringent approach to timetabling. Unlike other schools we can be much more flexible when it comes to considering what each pupil is capable of and how we can support them. It’s not a one size fits all approach.”

The opportunity to study for the IB Diploma has proved immensely popular, with approximately half of Higher Line pupils opting for this internationally-recognised academic qualification.

“The IBDP is for intellectually agile pupils as they have to study six subjects. If pupils want to go on to study or work abroad it’s an

excellent and highly respected qualification, both in the UK and across the globe.”

Pupils also have the option to pursue the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) that helps boost their UCAS points, enhancing university applications.

While A levels and the IB Diploma are academically focused, the Cambridge Technical Diploma combines coursework and exams to suit different learning styles: “It offers pupils variety, allowing them to add an A level subject to the programme if they wish to.

“Often GCSE results alone determine a pupil’s academic pathway and some pupils just aren’t suited to exams. So, at Stonyhurst, we offer a bespoke approach to the curriculum and aim to find a solution that brings out the strengths of each individual child – our varied curriculum reflects this.”

Stonyhurst is ranked in the top 25 per cent of schools and colleges for value-added progress, earning the prestigious Added Value Award. It is also ranked among the Top 30 IB Schools in the UK, reflecting its dedication to academic excellence and global readiness.

While studying at Stonyhurst, Higher Line pupils also have access to a first-class Careers Department that has seen pupils progress to some of the world’s top universities and gain prestigious apprenticeships.

Their career journey starts in Year 7, with Year 9 pupils guided in selecting their GCSE subjects, while Year 10 introduces a more in-depth approach to career education.

As they progress, pupils embark on their journey with Unifrog, a successful global online platform where they can build their CV, explore leading international universities and degree courses, express their academic, sporting, and cultural interests, and develop their UCAS personal statement.

The Stonyhurst Careers Department also provides pupils with employability workshops, work experience and inspiring talks from leading figures – including Stonyhurst alumnus and World Cup-winning England rugby player Kyran Bracken.

“Former Stonyhurst pupils play a huge part in our Career’s Department,” says the

“We recently invited speakers who advised predominantly IB pupils, about studying in Europe and the US. We also have Old Stonyhurst (OS) speakers advising on apprenticeships from a whole host of companies including Rolls Royce, Bentley and BAE.”

From Year 11, pupils can access various societies, including the Medical Society, Law Society and a society dedicated to preparing for and gaining access to Oxford and Cambridge University: “If pupils have medicine, veterinary or dentistry interests they are advised on what they need to be doing in terms of their university applications and they are given advice on UCAS preparation and mock interviews.

“Our Law Society recently hosted an alumnus studying law at university and a talk by an international lawyer who joined via Zoom from Singapore.”

Potential Oxbridge pupils at Stonyhurst benefit from a range of opportunities, including advice on ‘super-curricular’ reading lists and UCAS preparation. One pupil, passionate about Norse and Anglo Saxon history, was granted access to the College’s unique historic collections, while a music pupil is currently leading the school choir. “To succeed in applications to such prestigious universities, this is what’s expected. Every potential Oxbridge pupil receives comprehensive support with applications, interviews and extracurricular activities. It’s a significant process, but it works.”

Similarly, all prospective university and degree apprenticeship pupils receive

practical support with applications, interview preparation and CVs.

As an independent international boarding school, Stonyhurst College serves pupils from around the world and its Higher Line curriculum reflects this diversity.

Looking to the future the College is set to launch an International Language School giving overseas pupils a unique opportunity to improve their English before they begin their journey at Stonyhurst: “It’s a very exciting development and one that we will be promoting all over the world.” n

Stonyhurst College Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk stonyhurst.ac.uk

College’s Head of Careers Emily Nolan.

STRATEGIC VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Westholme Principal Paul Taylor explains why the school is teaming up with world-renowned researchers and international tech giants to give every pupil the best opportunities

The recruitment process for principals and headteachers is, in my experience, very rigorous indeed. The hardest part is always the student panel where the most difficult questions are asked! Amongst other stretching and perceptive questions, students want to know what their potential custodian wants to change.

That was certainly my experience at Westholme – and it’s still a really difficult question to answer even several months into a new role. It’s an even more difficult question to answer when a school is already as good as Westholme! After six months, though, it is clear to me that the whole sector has to prove its worth to current and prospective families.

What I do know is that we are about as far away from being complacent as you can

WE TAKE EVERY PUPIL AS AN INDIVIDUAL AND HELP THEM TO DEVELOP THEIR STRENGTHS AND PASSIONS, AS WELL AS WORKING ON THEIR WEAKNESSES

possibly get. At Westholme, we are pursuing four strategic aims in order to make sure that we always do the best for every child. Firstly, at Westholme, we want to be seen as a beacon for teaching and learning within the sector. We have significantly smaller class sizes, experienced teachers and ambitious stakeholders, but we want to be right at the cutting edge of education. Our results are already excellent, but we’ve teamed up with world-renowned researchers Carl Hendrick and Paul Kirschner to ensure that every teacher has access at their fingertips to the most up-to-date thinking. Education should be ‘serious fun’, and our students will continue to be introduced to the most exciting and effective methods of teaching.

Of course, there is so much more to education than academic qualifications. Westholme already has a hard-earned reputation for providing all-round excellence for our students. Whilst what happens in the classroom is at the core of our existence, the wide range of activities available for all students allows them to develop the kinds of skills and characteristics required to succeed in life after school. As our second strategic aim, we will be further strengthening our co-curricular opportunities.

The quality of our Performing Arts provision is sky high – there’s no wonder that our Upper Sixth leavers get accepted

to some of the very best drama, dance and music colleges in the country. We are also highly ambitious for our sports programme, having recently engaged two of the top hockey and football coaches in the region. With such a broad offer, there really is something for everyone at Westholme.

WHAT WE WILL ALWAYS DEVELOP ARE STRONG-MINDED, COMPASSIONATE AND COMMITTED YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WANT TO MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE

Thirdly, we believe that with the privilege of a Westholme education comes a moral responsibility to make a positive contribution to the world around them. Many of our former students are already doing just that through their vocations and desire to make this a better world.

One of the best features of the British post-16 system is the Extended Project Qualification. Essentially a 5000 word university-style research essay, the EPQ gives A Level students the opportunity to explore an area of life that they are truly passionate about. This year, the choice of topics at Westholme ranged from the use of AI in surgery to the protection of wild animals in Kenya, further evidence that Westholme students are preparing themselves for futures in leadership roles. Finally, providing the security that will allow us to achieve our first three aims, Westholme will gain a national reputation

for its well-being strategy. As a society, we face many challenges, but at the top of the list for me is the mental health epidemic that prevents too many of our children from thriving at school and in life. We have already appointed a member of our Senior Leadership Team to lead on this crucial area for our community and have just linked up with a New Zealand EdTech giant who will help us to measure, track and intervene to improve the mental health of our students and teachers.

At Westholme, however, we don’t fall into the trap of only valuing what can be measured. Our award-winning careers department ensures that all students are encouraged to follow their dreams. I always emphasise that there is no such thing as a Westholme ‘product’ in the sense that we take every pupil as an individual and help them to develop their strengths and passions, as

well as working on their weaknesses. What we will always develop, though, are strongminded, compassionate and committed young people who want to make this world a better place. n

School Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road Pleasington BB2 6QU 01254 506070

westholmeschool.com

Westholme

Well-known regional law firm Farleys is moving some of its operations to new flagship premises to create an innovative and much larger East Lancashire office space, writes Gail Bailey

Farleys Solicitors, who were originally founded on Richmond Terrace in Blackburn in 1958, are moving some of their town centre offices to a new 18,679 sq ft office space on Shuttleworth Mead Business Park just off Junction 8 of the M65, to facilitate the firm’s ambitious growth plans. Managing Partner Ian Liddle explains: “It has been a vision of ours for a number of years to relocate some of our more traditional offices to one collaborative space, both to improve the working environment for the teams and to develop the services we’re able to provide for our clients.”

The new premises will see Farleys take over the whole of Communications House, which was formally used by haulage company Fagan and Whalley. It will enable enough space for over 120 employees, include parking for 110 cars and offer modern facilities which will include both extensive meeting rooms and event spaces.

Partner Stephen Greenwood says: “Alongside our year-on-year growth for the last decade, becoming part of Lawfront three years ago has given us access to additional investment and technology and helped us to realise our ambitions of bringing together colleagues from the firm’s Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley offices. It is an exciting time for the whole of the organisation, with the new space being a big step in our future development plans and in attracting the best talent to join our expanding team.”

Lawfront partner with general legal service firms who hold a leading position in their region, a strong brand for client service, a dedication to their people with management teams that have a history of delivering profitable growth. The organisation supports

these teams to achieve their ambitions by bringing investment and expertise in people, IT and AI, marketing, finance and compliance. Ian adds: “For our clients, the move will absolutely not affect the high levels of service we offer but will allow us to enhance this further through the investment in technology and the cross-team collaboration. Along with this, the new office will provide exceptional meeting spaces for clients. And for our colleagues, this new space will give them fantastic and innovative facilities in a convenient location. We have ensured that it will offer a modern, comfortable and collaborative environment that is welcoming for both clients and colleagues – consistent with Farleys values.”

I CAN ASSURE THESE COMMUNITIES THAT WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE THERE TO SUPPORT AND ADVISE ON LEGAL MATTERS ALONG WITH CONTINUING OUR SUPPORT FOR LOCAL EVENTS, INITIATIVES AND KEY ORGANISATIONS

Partner for Marketing and People Reta Rose is keen to give assurance that, whilst Farleys are leaving the three high streets, they are absolutely not leaving the towns: “Although we are relocating, we remain unwaveringly committed to Blackburn, Accrington and Burnley and our new premises have been carefully chosen so that they are equidistant and easily accessible. Farleys is ingrained in these towns and we very much appreciate the loyalty of our clients,” she says. “I can assure these communities that we will continue to be there to support and advise on legal matters along with continuing our support for local events, initiatives and key organisations.”

Local commercial property agent and client Jonathan Wolstencroft of Whiteacres Property welcomed the move, saying: “The accessibility of the new office will be great for clients and offers a flexible modern working space fitting for a firm like Farleys. Being centrally located

between Burnley, Blackburn and Accrington, Farleys can continue to serve those towns from its new office and enhance its offering to the wider area.”

Farleys will retain their other offices in Manchester, Preston, Rawtenstall and Shadsworth Business Park in Blackburn. It is evident that Farleys Solicitors are very much an organisation who ‘buck the trend’ and are keen not to be seen as a ‘stereotypical’ law firm, as Ian explains: “What truly distinguishes Farleys is our client-focused approach and that is the same whether we

are supporting individuals, families, small and medium-sized businesses or large corporations – our emphasis is on clarity, integrity and our approachability. We know that as an industry we are often accused of being overly complex and weighed down by jargon, which can make information more complex than it often needs to be. At Farleys we work hard to ensure that is not the case.”

Every aspect of Farleys’ new office space and the vision to grow and expand epitomises the firm’s core values of being bold, authentic and caring – a team who are driven by

really caring about what they do – with a commitment to provide honest advice that delivers real results and the new office

AN AESTHETIC WORKSPACE IS IMPORTANT IN DRIVING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE, WHERE TEAMS PUT CLIENTS AT THE FOREFRONT OF EVERYTHING –WHICH IS PRECISELY WHAT FARLEYS IS ALL ABOUT

space will further strengthen this culture as Stephen concludes: “An aesthetic workspace is important in driving a culture of excellence, where our teams put clients at the forefront of everything – which is precisely what Farleys is all about.” n

0333 305 9284 info@farleys.com farleys.com

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

INDEPENDENT FILM NIGHTS IN PRESTON

The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre in Preston is teaming up with Lytham International Film Festival to launch a new season of independent film nights. It’s a chance for Preston cinemagoers to enjoy a wonderfully varied selection of the best short films from around the world. Taking place on the last Tuesday of each month, audiences can watch a 90-minute screening of trailblazing cinema followed by an exclusive Q&A with an industry professional. The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre is home to a three-screen boutique cinema. With sofa-style seating, ambient lighting and a relaxed atmosphere, it offers an elevated movie-going experience.

UNIVERSITY RECOGNISED FOR SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT

The University of Central Lancashire’s School of Business has been recognised for its entrepreneurship and small business support with a national reaccreditation. The School’s Centre for SME has successfully retained the prestigious Small Business Charter (SBC), making it one of 68 business schools to hold the SBC Award in the UK and Ireland. This national accreditation, assessed by academic and industry enterprise experts, recognises business schools that demonstrate excellence in supporting small businesses, student enterprise and the local economy. The panel praised the Centre for SME for its commitment to providing outstanding support for entrepreneurship and employability, as evidenced by the remarkable achievements of its students and graduates.

NEW EATERY OPENS AT ANIMATE COMPLEX

Loungers plc, the West Country-based café/bar group, has opened Argento Lounge in Preston, creating 30 jobs for local people. The Loungers build and design team have transformed the new unit in the Animate Leisure Complex in their unmistakable and unique style. A real home from home, Argento Lounge will cater for all tastes throughout the day with a varied and innovative all-day menu. With community and neighbourhood at its heart, Argento Lounge will welcome locals looking for a space for regular catch ups, meetings and events – everything from business networking, book or knitting clubs to parent and baby meets and life drawing classes.

GARDEN CENTRE WINS BEST DESTINATION

Barton Grange Garden Centre in Preston is celebrating after being named Destination Garden Centre of the Year at the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) 2024 awards. It scooped the prestigious title of best large garden centre in the UK at a ceremony held at Da Vere Wokefield Estate in Reading at the end of January. Guy Topping, managing director of Barton Grange, says: “What an achievement! It’s thanks to our team’s hard work, passion and dedication that we have received this incredible honour.” Among the categories reviewed are the centre’s product range and quality, disabled facilities, sustainability, garden care department, houseplants and seasonal plants.

BLACKPOOL HOSTS FIRST-EVER RESTAURANT WEEK

Blackpool is hosting its first-ever Restaurant Week, 27th March to 3rd April, offering a week-long celebration of the town’s food and drink scene. Featuring exclusive discounts, 2-for-1 deals, tasting menus and cooking demonstrations, the initiative is led by Blackpool Town Centre and Tourism BIDs. More than 25 venues across the town have already signed up to participate, including The White Tower at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, The Upper Deck Bar & Grill, The Beach House and Bailey’s Cheese & Charcuterie. Street Market will act as the central hub, hosting pop-up kitchens and food demonstrations.

APPRENTICESHIP SUCCESS

More than 20 apprentices across the Bowker Motor Group in Blackburn, Bolton and Preston have celebrated the highest total number of apprenticeships in the Lancashire automotive retailer’s four-decade history. Bowker Motor Group has expanded its apprenticeship programme across multiple roles, including technical, sales and parts operations.Bowker Motor Group’s BMW service manager, Stewart Rose, who himself started as an apprentice over 30 years ago, said: “Apprenticeships offer young people an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning qualifications and it’s great to see so many thriving across our business.”

TEAM EXPANSION

LANX, the Lancashire-based footwear brand known for its proper footwear, has expanded its team over the past few months. This growth reflects the company’s continued success and the increasing demand for high quality boots and shoes. Throughout 2024 and moving into 2025 LANX has experienced significant growth in both online and in-store sales. This success has enabled the company to invest in its workforce, bringing in new talent to support various areas of the business. “Lancashire is our home and we’re committed to investing in the local community,” said Marco Vaghetti, Founder of LANX. “We believe in the talent and potential of the region and we’re excited to be creating new opportunities for people in Lancashire.”

DRIVING SUCCESS

Hippo Motor Group has announced a major milestone as the team has now grown to over 350 employees. From humble beginnings in Burnley to becoming a nationally recognised name in the automotive industry, this achievement reflects their commitment to growth, innovation and customer satisfaction. Whether it’s sourcing high-quality vehicles, delivering outstanding customer service, or driving forward with new technology and finance solutions, every team member plays a vital role. As the team continues to expand, they remain dedicated to creating exciting career opportunities in the local area, investing in talent and supporting every employee to reach their full potential.

NEW INNOVATION HUB FOR LANCASHIRE

A new innovation hub to boost collaboration in key sectors has been announced by Lancashire County Council. The proposed hub at the Samlesbury Enterprise Zone, close to the new National Cyber Force (NCF) headquarters, will drive productivity benefits and innovation, especially in digital, cyber, advanced manufacturing, energy and aerospace sectors, building on existing and emerging strengths in the county. The county council’s cabinet has agreed to provide £7.2m for the project. With this funding agreed, work will continue to confirm the proposals, so that an implementation plan can be put in place.

PIZZA OUTLET EXPANDS

Ribby Hall’s popular Papa John’s outlet is relocating to a larger, more prominent location within the village. This new Papa John’s will be one of the few in the UK to offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with expanded options including two large patios – one by a children’s playground –and covered, heated areas for year-round comfort. Located closer to the main entrance of the village, it provides a more convenient spot for local customers. Additionally, the original Papa John’s site will be repurposed into an extension of Ribby Hall Village’s nursery, adding 36 new child spaces to accommodate the growing local community.

The experts at Raymond James, Ribble Valley can advise on business succession and the many issues at stake when making this momentous decision

Preston and Fylde benefit enormously from their many family run/owned businesses. Whether in manufacturing, services (home or professional), food or agriculture, these businesses are a source of employment, wealth creation and often no small amount of pride and legacy.

However, for many owners the question of how best to pass on the business (or not) to the next generation is never far away. At Raymond James, Ribble Valley we have the expertise and experience to help the transition and add value to it, whether you are the one handing over the reins or the one inheriting them.

Over the next two editions of Live Preston and Fylde magazine, we will consider the many issues at stake in this life-changing moment, starting with the ones often faced by those who are exiting their business.

PLANNING AHEAD

On the run up to retirement, one of the biggest decisions for a business owner is deciding on the ultimate plan for succession. Many business owners want to protect the future

of their business and their employees by passing their business onto family members, existing employees or their management team. But how can you approach this in the most efficient way?

At Raymond James, Ribble Valley we have advised clients on this and many other aspects of succession planning. We have experience in a variety of tax planning measures that allow the business to be passed gradually to existing employees, including Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) and its impact on Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) and Capital Gains Tax.

Employee Ownership Share Trusts (EOT) can be a great way for an owner to plan their exit and can be a simpler and more tax efficient alternative to selling a business via a trade sale, as well as helping to protect business continuity.

And of course, a management buy-out is another potential, non-family, exit strategy.

THE NEXT GENERATION

If your wish is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, then early planning is essential. The gift of shares or sale at below market value are still treated as a disposal at market value. However, it may be possible to make a joint election for gift holdover relief on the transfer of certain trading company shares.

Inheritance tax (IHT) is another issue when gifting a business. As with any gift, if you survive seven years after making it, it no longer counts towards your estate. Changes

to IHT in respect of agricultural businesses have prompted many clients to get in touch recently.

We have also advised clients on establishing a trust for the family business or setting up a Family Investment Company (FIC). Both mechanisms allow for some control of the business and its assets but have different tax advantages and impacts on asset protection, financial flexibility and so on.

DON’T GO IT ALONE

All business disposals and succession plans are different. It is important that you consider all your options so that you fully understand the implications, not only from a tax perspective but from a commercial and emotional perspective as well. So, our advice is don’t try and handle it all by yourself –talk to us as early as possible so you’re aware of all the options open to you. n

Please feel free to book a consultation with our wealth managers, here in Longridge.

A THING OF WONDER…

The Porsche Macan 4 Electric delivers on every level. It’s quick, it’s quiet and looks sensational, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

Do you love driving, appreciate luxury touches, don’t mind being the target of road envy and really want to feel that you are ‘in the moment’?

If so, then please feel free to read on. For right here – thanks to the motoring masters at Porsche – is a vehicle that delivers all of the above and more. So much more.

For the Porsche Macan 4 Electric is not simply about performance (although, trust me, it is right up there at the very top and) it’s a thing of wonder – a machine of sumptuous proportions, elegance and dynamics.

One of the most respected (and hard-toplease) motoring magazines has recently hailed it as ‘the best-handling electric SUV ever tested’.

Praise indeed and it is easy to see why the Macan 4 Electric is rated a cut above all rivals.

I was handed the key to a stunning all-wheeldrive automatic in Gentian Blue metallic with a black leather interior and immense kerb appeal.

IT’S A MACHINE OF SUMPTUOUS PROPORTIONS, ELEGANCE AND DYNAMICS

But park up the visual bits and pieces for now and let’s just concentrate on the actual drive. First thing to note is that it is quick and quiet, very quick and very quiet (although you can actually engage some engine noise by flicking to sport mode), but I decided to flex my shoulders and opt for peace.

As for power and pace, expect 285kW (387 horsepower) and the ability to power from standstill to 62mph in 5.2 seconds, or an astonishing 3.3 seconds with turbo.

All well and good and extremely new age, but all you really need to know is that the Macan 4 offers an electric range of 381 miles. And charging speeds are equally as impressive. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent within approximately 21 minutes at a suitable fast-charging station.

Add to the mix sensational steering, great agility and a whole heap of fun and you have a top-class driving experience at your fingertips.

THE PERFORMANCE IS ABSOLUTELY WORTHY OF THE ICONIC PORSCHE BADGE

In short, the performance is absolutely worthy of the iconic Porsche badge.

And the interior is every bit as marvellous as the look and the drive.

From the moment you get your hands warmed up on the heated GT multifunction leather steering wheel (and on a cold, winter morning in Lancashire that is much appreciated) you realise that nothing has been left to chance. The standard equipment list reads like a tick-box of everything you could possibly need and here are just a handful of the highlights – panoramic roof, steel spring suspension, 22-inch RS Spyder wheels in black (high gloss), Porsche crest on the front headrests, 14-way comfort seats with memory, rear heated seats, illuminated door sills, heated windscreen, reality head-up display, privacy glass, surround view with active parking support, tinted LED matrix main headlights and taillights, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors and a Bose surround sound system.

I could go on, but I feel sure you get the picture.

Talking of pictures, this is a vehicle with the highest levels of computing power and connectivity. The Macan 4 Electric is equipped with the latest-generation display and operating concept with up to three screens, including the free-standing 12.6-inch, curved-design instrument cluster and the 10.9-inch central display.

For the first time, the front passenger can also view information, adjust settings on the infotainment system or stream video content while the car is being driven via their own optional 10.9-inch screen. Also for the first time, the Porsche Driver Experience includes augmented reality technology. Virtual elements such as navigation arrows are visually integrated

seamlessly into the real world. The image appears to the driver at a distance of 10 metres and corresponds to the size of an 87-inch display.

The infotainment is based on Android Automotive OS and the ‘Hey Porsche’ voice assistant suggests routes, including charging stops, at lightning speed. In the new Porsche App Centre, passengers can

directly access popular apps from thirdparty providers and install them directly.

To summarise, the Macan 4 Electric is extra, extra special – 100 per cent Porsche and 100 per cent a car of 2025. To see it and to drive it is to feel it and to want it. n

Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911

porschepreston.co.uk

@PorscheCentrePreston

@Porsche_Preston

@PorschePreston

GET READY FOR THE RIDE

Hey man! There’s a new MINI on the block – and it’s ACE! With pace and space (plus a rather handsome face) the eye-catching new all-electric MINI Aceman is truly a car to embrace.

It simply delivers on every level, bringing fresh excitement to all-electric driving, perfect for navigating the city but equally at home on the open road.

IT IS CLEAR WHY THE MINI TEAM BELIEVE THEY HAVE A GENUINE WINNER ON THEIR HANDS

MINI describe it as a ‘progressive crossover with everyday usability’ and they should know. Guess what? They’re spot on.

The all-electric MINI Aceman is an extra special car, producing practicality with zero emissions, sleek sophistication and a heady mix of high-end technology, smart engineering and super design.

With sporty styling, the new all-electric MINI Aceman is mini but mighty, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

Throw in a go-kart feel and a cheeky chappie attitude and what’s not to like?

Mini but mighty, the all-electric MINI Aceman comes in two performance options, E and SE and there are three styles to consider – Classic, Exclusive and Sport, each offering an individual vibe, bespoke features, colour schemes and tailored design details.

So, let’s have a closer look at the leader of the pack, the SE Sport.

You know from the get-go that this is going to be a lot of fun. My first car was a MINI (think they’d only just come out back then!) so I was among the disciples long before arriving at the showroom to befriend this latest model.

A couple of hundred yards into the test drive and it is clear why the MINI team believe they have a genuine winner on their hands. With next level styling, the individual front and rear design emphasises its sporty nature with Black High Gloss features alongside Legend Grey paintwork, black contrast roof, mirror caps and bonnet strips, as well as JCW (John Cooper Works) 18-inch alloy wheels with black brake callipers. There is also a natty rear spoiler with airblades and roof rails.

Step inside and get ready for the ride with race-inspired sport seats upholstered black with red contrast accents and stitching, extending through to the patterned dashboard. Automatic air conditioning, heated front seats/steering wheel, front armrest, lidded storage box and head-up display all add to the comfort factor.

YOU KNOW FROM THE GET-GO THAT THIS IS GOING TO BE A LOT OF FUN

The interior is uncluttered and roomy and I’m reliably told that there is actually enough space in the back for a six-foot-tall passenger to sit behind a similar-sized driver. As for the technology, entertainment and communication. Top notch.

The impressive 240mm diameter circular OLED touchscreen, means a wealth of connectivity is right there at your fingertips. When you want to know the latest traffic or weather conditions, or to find a charging station along your route, or just fancy a chit-chat, the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant is ready and waiting to assist –and is called ‘Spike’. Activate by simply saying ‘Hey MINI’ or by pressing the pushto-talk button on the steering wheel.

And, listen up – you can add further spice to excellent acoustics with a Harman Kardon surround sound system, featuring no fewer than 10 speakers. The optional MINI Connected Package lets music streaming apps like Spotify and Amazon Music integrate perfectly into the round OLED display.

Rest assured that safety and assistance features are plentiful. Intelligent navigation helps you work out your route and find your way. Parking Assistant offers features for manoeuvring smoothly into spaces, working alongside the rear-view camera to project the view behind the vehicle onto the OLED display when reverse gear is engaged. The radar-based Driving Assistant has a number of key functions that help keep you safe at all times and in all conditions.

And so to the all-important electric facts or, to use the correct terminology, technical data.

We have already established that it comes emission free and the SE Sport offers output of 218 (hp) and 330 (Nm) torque with the capability to go from 0 to 62mph in just over seven seconds.

You’ll find an electric range in the region of 250 miles and charging is very good (10 to 80 per cent) in about half an hour.

Oh, and I mentioned space earlier – with the seats up, the boot provides a remarkable 300 litres of it.

Finally, a mention too for the brilliant MINI App – the digital partner to your MINI, connecting you to your car any time, any place. From checking the health and status of your MINI, planning your next trip or controlling a variety of functions remotely - the MINI App unlocks a world of possibilities and opportunity from the convenience of your phone.

Given all of the above, it’s not so much about who would want an all-electric MINI Aceman, much more about who wouldn’t? n

Bowker Preston Channel Way Preston PR2 2YA 01772 761234

bowkerprestonmini.co.uk

@BowkerMINI

@bowker_mini

@bowker.mini

DEEPDALE CELEBRATES 150 YEARS OF FOOTBALL

For 150 years, the roar of the crowd has echoed through Deepdale, the hallowed turf where Preston North End has etched its name into footballing history, writes Peter Benson

The history of Preston North End is familiar to many people in these parts. Be it the original Invincibles of 1888/89, the FA Cup triumph of 1938 and most famously of all, the era of Sir Tom Finney in the 1950s. Through all these events – as players, managers and supporters have come and gone – one constant has remained – the club’s home of Deepdale. It is

the oldest continually used football stadium in the world and this year marks 150 years of sport at the venue.

The football club was founded in 1880, but its story began in January 1875 when the site was used for both cricket and rugby. But as the popularity of football grew, the club joined the Lancashire Football Union in 1880, eventually becoming one of the

founder members of The Football League in 1888. Success swiftly followed, with that Invincibles side surging to an undefeated league and cup double.

IT IS THE OLDEST CONTINUALLY USED FOOTBALL STADIUM IN THE WORLD AND THIS YEAR MARKS 150 YEARS OF SPORT AT THE VENUE

The FA Cup winning year of 1938 also saw the largest ever attendance at Deepdale of 42,684 against Arsenal. A League War Cup win would follow in 1941 and usher in the

career of Preston’s greatest ever player –Sir Tom Finney. Finney would finally retire in 1960, having come agonisingly close to delivering silverware for his hometown club, with a 1954 FA Cup Final defeat and missing out on a First Division title on mere goal difference in 1953.

Finney’s final season in 1960 was followed by relegation the following year. His retirement has become synonymous with not just the decline of the football team, but of Deepdale as well in the 30 or so years after he hung up his boots. The club has never returned to the top flight since. As the prospects of the team decayed, the ground crumbled. The 1980s was the darkest decade of the club’s history. In 1985 the floodlight pylons were condemned as unsafe, forcing the club to play a midweek game during the day. Capacity continued to drop as parts of the ground were closed for safety reasons. The famous ground that had once welcomed over 40,000 fans saw attendances drop to four figures.

The fortunes of the club – and even more so the stadium – would be revitalised in 1994 when Baxi completed their takeover of North End. Through floating on the stock exchange, the club raised the funds to transform Deepdale. The man tasked with this overhaul was Preston-born and bred designer Ben Casey. Re-developed one side at a time, the first stand was completed in 1996 but it would take until 2008 for all four to be completed.

Casey’s design took inspiration from Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa, with the iconic floodlights in the Ligurian city being mirrored in the transformation of Deepdale. Floodlight towers are such a practical piece of equipment, yet they represent so much more to many football supporters. Traditionally they would signify that you were approaching the ground, standing tall amongst the residential

houses around them as fans funnelled through the narrow streets.

You simply do not see towering floodlights incorporated into modern stadia plans nowadays, but what Casey’s design managed to capture so perfectly was that fusion of old and new, tradition and progress – a fantastic new stadium but still deeply rooted in its history. Credit must go to the club for choosing to redevelop Deepdale, rather than choose a new out-of-town location where they could build from scratch but lose the emotional and nostalgic connection.

SPEAK TO A PRESTON FAN THESE DAYS AND THEY WILL TELL YOU THIS SENSE OF HISTORY AND TRADITION IS BOTH A SOURCE OF PRIDE AS WELL AS PAIN

Each brand-new stand echoes that nostalgia – named after club legends Finney, Shankly and Kelly along with recognition for those original Invincibles – yet offering the club modern facilities for the future. You can see Deepdale from the M65 (again thanks to those floodlights), the view of the stadium across Moor Park whether lit up at night or on a misty morning is iconic. Deepdale is incredibly photogenic; the advent of the drone has opened new opportunities for aerial images of a stadium that is like no other in this country.

Speak to a Preston fan these days and they will tell you this sense of history and tradition is both a source of pride as well as pain. Every famous memory of this club is in black and white. The football landscape has shifted radically since those days, but fans will continue to dream of seeing their team at English football’s top table once more with Deepdale taking centre stage. n

Photography: Ian Robinson

Photography: Sonia Bashir

SISTER ACT

From humble beginnings baking for family and friends, twins

Rachel Finch and Lauren Sinclair have transformed their passion into a thriving empire, Finch Bakery. What began as a hobby has blossomed into a beloved brand, as Ali Gudgeon discovers

Finch Bakery goodies include mouth-watering cookies, blondies, brownies, cupcakes, cake jars and school sponge cakes. I for one have been a huge fan of the delicious treats since my daughter introduced me to their bakes seven years ago. So much so, we even ordered her 18th birthday cake from Finch Bakery as we were so impressed.

With over 200,000 followers on Instagram, the Finch Bakery twins have been catapulted

to sweet success since their story began. It all started with a 21st birthday cake, crafted from YouTube tutorials by Lauren in 2012. “Friends and family started asking her to

make cakes,” Rachel recalls. “It was mainly a hobby until we opened our shop in 2016. We’d both had other jobs, travelled, moved to Manchester and then decided we wanted to make cakes our career.”

The early days were a whirlwind. “It was chaotic,” Rachel laughs. “We already had a customer base from growing our ‘hobby’ on social media, posting cake and cupcake pictures. Then, in 2017, our XL litre cake jars went viral on Facebook and we had queues down the street.” Back then, it was just the twins, baking, running the shop, managing social media, decorating and serving.

WITH OVER 200,000 FOLLOWERS ON INSTAGRAM, THE FINCH BAKERY TWINS HAVE BEEN CATAPULTED TO SWEET SUCCESS SINCE THEIR STORY BEGAN

“We used to work 18-hour days!” Now, with a team of 38, the chaos is still there, but the support system is strong.

Family plays a crucial role in the Finch Bakery success story. “Our parents both work for us in payroll, admin and accounts and our older brother is our general manager,” Rachel explains.

The Covid-19 pandemic, while challenging, became a catalyst for growth. “We had to adapt to the regulations,” Rachel says. “Our physical shop closed for over a year, which forced us to launch more products on our website. At the time, we only sold double chocolate brownies online. This completely changed our business. Our online shop is now busier than our physical shops. And we recently started posting and selling on TikTok, which has proved successful.”

Today, Finch Bakery boasts a shop in Great Harwood (a building they purchased and renovated in 2020), a kiosk in Blackburn town centre, a hut at Ewood Park for Blackburn Rovers home games and counters in Selfridges Trafford Centre and Birmingham. They also have a popular trailer, which pops up at local food festivals, sporting events, shopping centres, Christmas markets, music events and even UCLan in Preston.

JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS, WE LAUNCHED OUR CAKE DECORATING AND SIP CLASSES AT A LOCAL BAR. PEOPLE HAVE TRAVELLED FROM ALL OVER TO COME, WHICH IS AMAZING!

“We love the thought of another shop, but pop-ups keep things interesting and offer less commitment,” Rachel explains. Their two recipe books have been a resounding success, but for now, the twins are focusing on their existing ventures. “We’ve spoken about another book with our publisher, but it’s a huge commitment to add to our already hectic lives, juggling kids, work and everything else inbetween.”

A recent addition to their offerings is the ‘decorate and sip’ events. “It’s something we’d been thinking about for a long time,” Rachel says. “Just before Christmas, we launched our cake decorating and sip classes at a local bar. People have travelled from all over to come, which is amazing! We teach people to assemble and decorate a cake over three hours. It’s a lot of fun and the tickets sell out quickly.”

Like any business, Finch Bakery has faced its challenges. “Being twins, we mostly

have the same ideas,” Rachel explains. “But we do have disagreements! A big struggle right now is ingredient prices, especially chocolate, which has tripled in the last three years. Trying to adapt can feel deflating but we love our business and we know we’ll overcome anything.”

Their most popular product? “It changes all the time,” says Rachel. “At one point, it was definitely brownies. But we’re seeing more people requesting cake jars again, which we love, as they were one of our first items.”

Despite their success, the twins remain grounded. “We get messages asking for freebies, but it doesn’t work for us,” Rachel says. “We have had a few celebrity followers who have ordered and paid full price, though.”

Rachel puts the secret to their success down to consistency and passion: “You need to genuinely love what you do to succeed long-term.” And it’s clear that Rachel and Lauren’s passion for baking, combined with their dedication and hard work, has created a recipe for sweet success. n

finchbakery.com @finchbakery

USE THEM OR LOSE THEM!

We need to actively support our local restaurants, country inns and cafés in order to give the hospitality industry a much-needed boost, writes Tedd Walmsley

Over the past few years, our beloved independent restaurants, cafés and hotels have been through the wringer. Lockdowns, skyrocketing costs, staff shortages – it’s been one challenge after another and many are still fighting to stay afloat. But here’s the thing – these places aren’t just businesses. They’re the heartbeat of our communities, the places we go to celebrate, unwind and make memories. If we don’t support them now, we risk losing them for good.

Think about it. When you choose a local restaurant over a big chain, you’re not just getting a meal – you’re supporting real people. The owners, the chefs and the servers – they’re the ones who put their heart and soul into every plate, every drink and every little detail. They know your name, remember your favourite order and actually care about

your experience. Try getting that level of personal service at a faceless multinational!

And let’s talk about quality. Independent places live and die by their reputation, which means they go the extra mile to give you

something special. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creative menus, homemade cakes that taste like heaven – this is the kind of experience you just can’t replicate with a mass-produced approach. And yet, despite offering all this, they’re the ones struggling the most.

We all feel the pinch when prices rise and naturally we’re more careful about where we spend our money. But while we’re managing the cost of living, small businesses are battling the cost of doing business with higher energy bills, rising supplier costs and increasing wages. It’s a constant uphill battle and without regular customers, some simply won’t make it.

So, what can we do? Supporting local hospitality doesn’t have to mean splashing out on a fancy meal every weekend. It can be as simple as choosing an independent café for your morning coffee, booking a stay at a family-run hotel instead of a chain or telling your friends about a fantastic meal you had at a local restaurant. Even something as small as leaving a positive review online can make a world of difference.

At the end of the day, it comes down to this – use it or lose it. If we don’t support our local hospitality businesses now, we’ll look around one day and wonder where they’ve all gone. And once they’re gone, they don’t come back. So, let’s raise a glass not just to great food and drink, but to the incredible people behind them. They need us and if we want to keep enjoying what they bring to our lives, it’s time to show up for them. n

EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN

EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES

EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN

EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN

EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN

AT GILPIN

Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.

Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.

Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.

Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.

Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.

Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.

Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.

Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.

Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.

Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.

Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.

Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.

Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.

Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.

Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.

Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.

Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

THE WARMEST OF WELCOMES

Popular Gastro Pub The Rum Fox continues to gain in popularity and is being recognized on a national scale, writes Gail Bailey

Stylish country pub and restaurant

The Rum Fox, nestled in the picturesque village of Grindleton continues to be a favourite dining spot for both locals and visitors to the Ribble Valley.

Chef Patron Bob Geldeard and his team really have created the perfect space to spend quality time with family and friends. The wonderful interior has wood panelling, oak beams, a huge fireplace and a feature quartz-topped bar. There is a modern open plan kitchen in the restaurant creating a contemporary and vibrant experience and alongside this is the fabulous food and wonderful, welcoming team.

The stylish and cosy surroundings allow customers to dine in the restaurant, bar, private dining room or the wonderful garden room with an amazing louvred retractable roof – perfect as we start to look towards the arrival of spring and (hopefully!) blue skies. The pub really is the ideal place to relax,

unwind and sample some of the sensational seasonal menus Bob has created: “We change our dishes weekly dependent upon ingredients,” he explains. Some of the recent offerings include Lancashire cheese soufflé

with cheese sauce and Grindleton apple chutney, Tosside venison loin, cevenne onion, red cabbage, braised shoulder brioche bun, creamed potatoes and red wine sauce – and the ever-favourite choice of pies such as chicken, bacon and tarragon with mustard sauce, seasonal greens and crinkle cut chips.

The seven-course tasting menu continues to be a success and customers can enjoy this with a selection of matching wines:

“We will also soon be hosting another one of our popular wine club events,” says Bob.

“We hold one every two months and they are always a busy and enjoyable night. The evening includes a five-course tasting menu, matched with the perfect wine, sourced and selected by experienced master of wines at Milestone Wines of Clitheroe.”

NO STRANGER

TO ACCOLADES THE RUM FOX HAVE RECENTLY BEEN FINALISTS AT TWO COVETED AWARD CEREMONIES

No stranger to accolades The Rum Fox have recently been finalists at two coveted award ceremonies: “We were in the final six of the ‘One to Watch’ award which is part of the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list, chosen from a shortlist of pubs that are nominated by food critics, writers, gastropub chefs and other food influencers,” explains Bob. “It was such an honour to be in the final six and to make the trip down to London

to attend the awards ceremony. The whole team are proud of the journey we have been on since opening less than two years ago.”

Alongside this The Rum Fox were also in the final of the Best Pub in Lancashire at the Lancashire Tourism Awards recently and were thrilled to be named in the top four. And when The Good Food Guide listed its top 50 cosy pubs, The Rum Fox was one of only three named in Lancashire. “The restaurant review guide sends anonymous inspectors to assess restaurants based on their food, hospitality and atmosphere,” explains Bob, “so we were thrilled to be included!”

WE’VE

ALSO

EXTENDED OUR

TWO OR THREE COURSE SET MENU FROM LUNCH TIME INTO THE EVENING ON WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAYS – A PERFECT MID-WEEK TREAT!

In addition to their success Bob and the team have now introduced the opportunity for customers to host their celebrations and it couldn’t be a more perfect spot to raise a glass with family and friends: “We have customers taking over the whole pub for an evening or day celebration,” says Bob. “Or for smaller events we have our beautiful private dining space that seats 10 guests or the garden room where we can host up to 30.” The Rum Fox is especially perfect for weddings where up to 80 guests can be catered for.

There really is plenty to choose from at The Rum Fox. Whether it’s an early bird meal, a lovely long lunch, a romantic dinner or even a ‘stop off’ after a walk in the Ribble Valley countryside the menu continually evolves: “We’ve also extended our two or

three course set menu from lunch time into the evening on Wednesday and Thursdays,” explains Bob – a perfect mid-week treat! n

Gift Vouchers are also available, perfect for a Mother’s Day treat, birthday gift or for any other special occasion. For more information, to make a booking, or to be on the VIP list and be the first to hear about upcoming events visit the website.

PROPER NORTHERN HOSPITALITY

Nestled between the Georgian elegance of Winckley Square and the verdant beauty of Avenham Park, Aven restaurant is quietly redefining Preston’s dining scene, writes Ali Gudgeon

This intimate, 32-cover haven, a recipient of the prestigious 3 AA Rosettes, offers a boutique-style fine dining experience unlike any other in the city. Inspired by its picturesque surroundings, Aven is a testament to culinary artistry and a celebration of Lancashire’s rich natural larder.

Esteemed chefs Oli Martin, a MasterChef finalist and Taste Lancashire Ambassador, and Sean Wrest have crafted a dining experience that reawakens British heritage and embraces the wild bounty of the region. Their tasting menus are meticulously designed around the finest seasonal produce, sourced from Lancashire’s outstanding growers and suppliers. Aven’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond local sourcing, with foraged ingredients adding a touch of the unexpected to each dish. By searching for herbs, fruits and roots in the wild, they create fresh, flavourful dishes that surprise and delight the palate.

Aven’s reputation has soared, particularly after a glowing review from Giles Coren – one of the UK’s toughest food critics –which catapulted the restaurant into the Square Meal Top 100 restaurants in the UK.

Coren highlighted the restaurant’s attention to detail, creative flavours and elegant execution, crediting the passion of the chefs and the nature of the restaurant. He wrote: “These are supremely gifted and thoughtful chefs and this is proper Northern hospitality: Original, Modern and Sleek.” This recognition, coupled with word-of-mouth recommendations, has

transformed Aven from a hidden gem into a culinary destination.

The restaurant’s ambiance strikes the perfect balance between refined and relaxed. It’s a place where exceptional service and exquisite cuisine are delivered with genuine Northern hospitality. Aven’s commitment to showcasing local producers is evident in every aspect of its menu. From scallops sourced from the Orkney Islands by a Preston-based supplier to Farm Yard Brew Co beers used in beer flights and even incorporated into their bread, the restaurant champions the best of the region. Cuckoo Gin also graces the menu, further highlighting their dedication to local partnerships.

THE MENUS, WHICH CHANGE EVERY SIX WEEKS TO REFLECT THE SEASONS, FEATURE 90 PER CENT LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE

Oli Martin, Chef Director at Aven, said:

“I’m Lancashire through and through, brought up on good home-cooked food and family recipes. Those traditions mean a lot and teach you respect for produce, seasonality and making the most of what’s available in your community.”

The menus, which change every six weeks to reflect the seasons, feature 90 per cent locally sourced produce. This dedication to seasonality and local sourcing ensures that every dish is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavours. The restaurant is continually evolving, with plans to expand their offerings, including developing an ‘Aven at Home’ experience. And collaborations with other notable chefs, such as Dan Merriman, further solidify Aven’s position as a culinary leader in the region.

Aven’s success is a testament to the passion and creativity of its team, a celebration of Lancashire’s culinary heritage and a destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience. n

or perfectly seared steak rather than restrict yourself to just one dish! With warmer weather just around the corner and the opportunity to eat outside, it makes a great impromptu lunch or early supper option too.

To elevate your dining experience, choose from a thoughtfully selected wine list, featuring Italian classics and hidden gems chosen by Tony. Whether you’re a fan of a crisp Pinot Grigio or a bold Barolo, you’ll find the perfect pairing for your meal. There

“A SUNDAY WELL SPENT…

…brings a week of content”, so the saying goes and I know I’m not on my own when I say that Sunday is shaped by whichever choice of roast dinner we’ll be having. Sunday lunch is a tradition which will never go out of style, writes Liz Walmsley

For over 30 years, the Lioveri family has been delighting guests with their contemporary Italian cooking and a warm and inviting atmosphere at their Lytham restaurant Novello, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious Sunday lunch.

Accomplished chef Sal takes the finest ingredients, perfectly aged rib-eye cuts of beef, or local free-range chicken, seasonal vegetables, prepares them with precision and presents them beautifully. Quality not quantity – simple yet delicious is the ethos underpinning everything at Novello. That

said, don’t be fooled into thinking this means it’s expensive, it’s also great value for money, so don’t save Sunday lunch just for occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays or anniversaries – Sunday should be celebrated every week!

WITH WARMER WEATHER JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO EAT OUTSIDE, IT MAKES A GREAT IMPROMPTU LUNCH OR EARLY SUPPER OPTION TOO

Spring is here and to mark the new season, Sal is introducing a more informal dining experience, with new smaller plates for sharing – have as little or as many as you’d like. With no compromise on quality, classic Italian flavours are combined with modern techniques resulting in a beautiful selection of dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. A perfect opportunity to sample a broader selection of plates, whether it’s hand rolled pasta, delicately cooked seafood

is also a nice selection of wines by the glass, so you don’t have to miss out if you’re lucky enough not to be the designated driver.

At Novello, it’s not just about the food –it’s about the entire experience. Sal, Tony and Vera are passionate about providing an exceptional personal service, ensuring that every visit feels special, whether you’re a regular or visiting for the first time.

With around 35 covers in the main restaurant, it retains an intimacy which can sometimes be lost in larger restaurants. A private area down the sweeping staircase lends itself perfectly to small private functions such as family events and parties, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to gather your friends, family, or that special someone and experience outstanding Italian dining at an incredible price.

Buon appetito! n

Novello

9 Clifton Street, Lytham FY8 5EP 01253 730278 novellorestaurant@hotmail.com thenovello.co.uk

@novello_lytham

Opening Hours

Monday and Tuesday: Closed Wednesday to Saturday: 12noon - 10pm Sunday: 12noon - Late

STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI CHEESECAKE

Ingredients

For the base:

180g digestive biscuits

90g butter, melted

For the filling:

500g full fat cream cheese

1 tsp vanilla extract

250g double cream

50g icing sugar

250g strawberries, chopped

To garnish:

250g strawberries cut into quarters

50ml white rum

1 lime, juice only

50ml strawberry liquor

Method:

1. Crumble the digestive biscuits in a food processor and add the melted butter.

2. Press the crumb mix evenly into the bottom of a parchment lined, spring base cake tin.

3. In a bowl mixer whisk together the cream cheese, vanilla, double cream and icing sugar until thick and creamy. Fold in the chopped strawberries and top over the cheesecake crumb base. Smooth the top with a pallet knife and chill for two hours.

4. Cut the remaining strawberries into quarters and place into bowl.

5. Put eight pieces into a cocktail shaker and press with a cocktail spoon to muddle.

6. Add the white rum, lime juice and strawberry liquor with a handful of ice and shake for 30 seconds.

7. Pour over the bowl of quartered strawberries, mix well and place on top of the cheesecake.

Chef‘s Tip:

For a frozen strawberry daiquiri sauce, freeze the strawberries first, blend with the rum, lime and strawberry liquor and serve with the cheesecake. n

Taking just 30 minutes to prepare and serving eight people, this delicious recipe for strawberry daiquiri cheesecake from Booths is the perfect dessert to enjoy this spring booths.co.uk

Champagne Breaks at Northcote in The Ribble Valley Northcote’s Exclusive Champagne Gourmet Break from March to May, Sunday to Thursday.

ON TO A WINNER!

Tedd Walmsley and son Rob dine at Bertram’s Restaurant at Crow Wood and declare it a triumph! Not surprisingly the restaurant recently won the well-deserved Taste Lancashire Award

It had been a while since my last visit to Bertram’s at Crow Wood and after hearing about its recent £3 million refurbishment, I was eager to see the transformation for myself. As we pulled up, I could already tell that the sleek, modern redesign had brought a fresh energy to the place. Stepping inside, the floor-to-ceiling windows bathed the space in natural light, offering a stunning view of Pendle Hill, while plush seating and intimate booths gave the restaurant a warm, sophisticated feel.

My son, Rob, and I were seated in a fantastic booth and as we settled in, there was the soft hum of conversation mixed with the gentle clinking of glasses. The service was impeccable from the start – friendly, attentive but never intrusive. There is a choice of two menus – the ‘dinner’ and ‘Rosette Experience’ both equally as impressive, featuring a well-balanced mix of indulgent

classics and innovative new dishes, with the freedom to mix and match from either menu. After some deliberation, we made our choices.

Rob started with the scallops, perfectly seared and paired with a silky pea purée and crispy pancetta. The delicate sweetness of the scallops combined with the saltiness of the pancetta was a winning combination.

I opted for the ‘Nduja Gambas Pil Pil –succulent prawns bathed in extra virgin olive oil, infused with the fiery kick of

‘nduja. The toasted focaccia on the side was ideal for soaking up the rich, spicy sauce.

For the main course, Rob went for the fillet steak, cooked to perfection and served with shallot green beans, a side of seasoned fries and a small jug of peppercorn sauce. The steak was melt-in-your-mouth tender and the sauce added just the right amount of richness. I chose turbot, a beautifully presented dish with delicate, flaky fish that was simply but expertly cooked, letting its natural flavour shine.

THE COMBINATION OF EXCEPTIONAL FOOD, ATTENTIVE SERVICE AND A RELAXED YET STYLISH AMBIENCE MADE FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE DINING EXPERIENCE

Despite feeling comfortably full, we couldn’t resist sharing a dessert.

The Baileys & Coffee was a masterpiece –a honeycomb chocolate brownie with Valrhona mousse, topped with Baileys cream and served alongside espresso ice cream. Each bite was pure indulgence, the smooth chocolate perfectly complemented by the creamy, boozy Baileys.

As we finished our meal, I took a moment to soak in the atmosphere. The new design had given Bertram’s a fresh, modern edge without losing its charm. The combination of exceptional food, attentive service and a relaxed yet stylish ambience made for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether for a special occasion or just a well-earned treat, this was a place that delivered on every level.

It really isn’t surprising that Bertram’s was the recipients of the much-coveted Taste Lancashire Award at the recent Lancashire Tourism Awards. A well-deserved win and definitely worth the short drive from the Ribble Valley.

If you really want to make a night of it, why not stay at Crow Wood Hotel? With stylish rooms you can wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading home. Or why not go all out and indulge in a spa experience at the award-winning Woodland Spa. Go on –you know you want to. n

bertramsrestaurant.com

THEATRE OF FLAMES

Chef Steven Smith has created something truly special with his new restaurant KAJI located in the buzzing heart of Manchester, writes Tedd Walmsley

Ican’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked, “What happened to Steven Smith?”

Since his departure from the Freemasons at Wiswell, there’s been a real sense of anticipation about where he’d reappear. Now, after much speculation, I’m delighted to say that Steven is back and he’s returned with something truly special. His latest venture, KAJI, has landed in Manchester’s Bridge Street, and it’s a game-changer.

I’ve known Steven for years and have followed his career with admiration, so when I got the call to come and experience KAJI, I didn’t hesitate. This isn’t just another high-end restaurant – it’s a bold statement, a thrilling blend of Japanese precision and open-flame cooking, all infused with the energy of a buzzing city location. Moving from the rolling hills of the Ribble Valley to the heart of Manchester is a big shift, but if anyone can pull it off, it’s Steven.

KAJI sets itself apart in many ways, but first and foremost is its dedication to the art of fire-based cooking. The open kitchen is a theatre of flames, where chefs sear, grill and smoke the finest ingredients over coal-fired grills. Watching the team at work is mesmerising, but more importantly, it delivers a depth of flavour that is simply outstanding. Whether it’s the delicate smokiness of flame-seared sashimi or the luxurious richness of A5 Wagyu beef, every dish is meticulously crafted and packed with flavour. True to the Japanese izakaya style, the menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a relaxed and sociable dining experience – something Steven has always excelled at creating.

Beyond the food, KAJI has a distinct pulse. As the evening unfolds, the atmosphere shifts from refined dining to an electric social space, with live DJs bringing a carefully

curated soundtrack of funky house, modern R&B and upbeat lounge music. There’s an energy to the place that’s infectious, making it somewhere you don’t just come to eat, but to stay and enjoy the night.

The combination of ambient red lighting, the hypnotic flicker of the grills and the rhythm of the music creates a setting unlike anything else in Manchester.

THE HYPNOTIC FLICKER OF THE GRILLS AND THE RHYTHM OF THE MUSIC CREATES A SETTING UNLIKE ANYWHERE ELSE

One thing Steven has always championed is sourcing the best possible ingredients, and KAJI is no exception. His network of trusted suppliers – including some old pals from the Ribble Valley – ensures that every element on the plate meets his exacting standards. That same commitment to excellence is reflected in the service with staff ensuring each guest experience is as memorable as the food.

Then there’s the bar. KAJI’s cocktail menu is every bit as impressive as its food offering. Whether you’re sipping on a signature sake-infused creation or sampling one of the premium Japanese whiskies, the bar experience at KAJI is just as important as the dining.

Special events are also part of the draw, and Steven is already bringing in big names to collaborate. A recent guest night with Dave Wall from The Unruly Pig showcased an extraordinary nine-course tasting menu, blending KAJI’s flame-led techniques with bold European influences.

For those of you in the Ribble Valley wondering whether it’s worth the trip –

absolutely. The best news? It couldn’t be easier to get to. A straightforward train journey or an hour’s drive will bring you straight into the action. And trust me, it’s well worth it. Steven is extending a warm invitation to all his previous customers, assuring them that while the setting has changed, his dedication to quality, creativity and hospitality remains as strong as ever.

It’s not just about dinner, either.

KAJI is also a fantastic lunch spot, offering a midday menu of lighter yet equally impressive dishes. Whether you’re in the city for work or meeting friends for a leisurely lunch, it’s a refined yet relaxed setting that caters to any occasion.

So, for everyone who’s been asking me where Steven Smith has gone – now you know. He’s back, he’s reinvented himself and he’s created something truly special. KAJI isn’t just another restaurant in Manchester, it’s an experience. It’s bold, vibrant and filled with the kind of attention to detail that has always defined Steven’s cooking. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of his work or someone new to his food, this is a restaurant that demands a visit. Book a table, make the journey and see for yourself – you won’t be disappointed. n

READER OFFER

Steven personally invites you to try the stunning food at KAJI – quote code LRV40 to receive 40% off your food bill.

*Not applicable to drinks. Not available from 5pm on Saturdays. Expires 30th April 2025

SAMPLE MENU

Sushi

Open temaki from £14

Artisanal rolls with refined fillings, wrapped in crisp nori

Maki rolls from £18

Refined maki rolls, wrapped in seasoned rice and crisp nori

Snacks

KAJI fried Louët-Feisser oysters £14

Oyster mayo, smoky house bonito hot sauce, fresh lime

Boneless corn-fed chicken wings £8.50

Slow cooked boneless sticky wings, Thai green mousse, katsu curry sauce

Small Plates

Maitake mushrooms V £18

Grilled over coals with dark soy and mirin, panko-crumbed egg, shiitake ketchup

Drunken rice V £25

Aged sake and white miso, smoked and picked daikon, grated black truffle

Meat

Himalayan salt-aged beef from £37

A selection of the finest seasonal meat charred over Japanese coals and English oak

Served with ox cheek stuffed shiitake mushroom

Seafood

Cod loin Kiev £40

Smoked garlic, anchovy emulsion

John Dory £48

XO crab Hollandaise

KAJI

64 Bridge Street

Manchester M3 3BN 0161 883 7746

reservations@kajimanchester.com kajimcr.com

OPENING HOURS

Wednesday: 5pm-12am

Thursday to Saturday: 12pm-2pm & 5pm-12am

PRESTON’S ANIMATED TRIUMPH

Nick Park CBE, four-time Academy Award® -winner and Prestonborn creator of Wallace & Gromit, has officially opened the city’s £45m+ Animate entertainment and leisure destination

The Honorary Freeman of Preston and multi award-winning filmmaker, unveiled a four-foothigh bronze statue of Feathers McGraw, the villainous penguin character in the Wallace & Gromit animated films, to mark the opening, close to the existing famous Wallace & Gromit bench at Preston Markets.

Crowds gathered to watch Nick Park, the creator of the popular animation film franchise, reveal the sculpture in his home city and then greet the new statue with cheers, followed by playful boos. One onlooker shouted ‘arrest that chicken’ to much laughter.

Joining Nick at the unveiling were the Mayor of Preston Councillor Philip Crowe, Chris Butler and Chris Jones, owners and directors of Castle Fine Arts Foundry, which created the statue and Merlin Crossingham, Bafta® award-winning creative co-director of Wallace & Gromit at Aardman Animations. Nick and Merlin are executive directors and creative directors, respectively, at Bristol-based independent studio Aardman, makers of the Wallace & Gromit films and other beloved brands, including Shaun the Sheep, Creature Comforts, Chicken Run and Morph.

Nick Park CBE said: “As a proud Prestonian, I couldn’t be more ‘egg-cited’ to see our

infamous Feathers McGraw joining Wallace and Gromit in my hometown. I’m not sure how happy Wallace and Gromit will be, though, to have their arch nemesis clutching the limelight.”

AS A PROUD PRESTONIAN, I COULDN’T BE MORE ‘EGG-CITED’ TO SEE OUR INFAMOUS FEATHERS MCGRAW JOINING WALLACE AND GROMIT IN MY HOMETOWN

Nick, who was a big Disney fan as a child and always dreamt about his own characters said having three of his characters as statues in his hometown is one of his proudest moments. Softly spoken, Nick said: “It’s heartwarming to see everyone come out in Preston for this event.”

When asked about the trend of his fans getting Feathers McGraw tattoos, Nick said it was an “accolade”. He added: “It’s great to have people who love the characters so much that they would actually want it on their body forever.”

Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader at Preston City Council said: “To have Nick Park officially opening our flagship regeneration scheme, Animate, is a genuine honour and landmark moment for the Council and the city. In addition, the new Feathers McGraw statue is a fantastic complement to the Wallace and Gromit bench, which has drawn so many visitors to Preston – its popularity has blown us away.

“Today heralds a new era for Preston, providing an unrivalled multi-tenanted entertainment and leisure complex for residents and visitors from the wider region in the ownership of our city.”

TODAY HERALDS A NEW ERA FOR PRESTON, PROVIDING AN UNRIVALLED MULTI-TENANTED ENTERTAINMENT AND LEISURE COMPLEX FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS FROM THE WIDER REGION IN THE OWNERSHIP OF OUR CITY

Chris Jones, Director at Castle Fine Arts Foundry added: “It was such an honour for us all at the Foundry to be given the opportunity to depict the deliciously malign Feathers McGraw in bronze, having enjoyed creating Wallace & Gromit a couple of years ago.

“We had felt Feathers ‘wee beady eyes’ upon us in the workshop for a good few months since we completed him, so it was both a relief and a joy to put him where he truly belongs, alongside his arch nemeses in Preston.”

Animate features The Arc Cinema with eight screens, 16-lane Hollywood Bowl bowling alley with gaming zone, public realm, a socialising unit and 164-space basement car park, alongside leading family restaurant brands Ask Italian, Cosmo, Taco Bell, Argento Lounge and a variety of street

food outlets plus a cocktail bar in Mad Giant Food Hall, run by Northern Lights Group.

The scheme was delivered by Maple Grove Developments (MGD), part of Preston-based contractor Eric Wright Group, on behalf of Preston City Council.

Built on the former indoor market and car park site, Animate is fully owned by Preston City Council and is one of six major projects in Preston’s Harris Quarter Towns Fund Investment Programme, a £200m programme including £20.9m of funding

by UK Government to support several regeneration projects.

The leisure scheme supports the Council’s commitment to Community Wealth Building – a fair, inclusive and ethical approach to fostering sustainable economic development and prosperity for all in Preston –via measures including using locally based businesses and the creation of approximately 300 full and part-time jobs when fully open and 105 apprenticeship weeks worked throughout the construction period to date. n

Elvis-fronted Nirvana band, Elvana and Ferocious Dog.

Tickets and all the info, at ThePrestonWeekender.com

8th May

VE Day Beacon Lighting Event, Flag Market, Preston

A day of reflection for those who served during the D Day landings. The programme will feature choir performances leading up to the beacon lighting, fostering a sense of unity and remembrance.

WHAT’S ON IN PRESTON

27th March – 3rd April

Blackpool Restaurant Week

Abingdon Street Market will act as the central hub

A week-long celebration of the town’s food and drink scene featuring exclusive discounts, 2-for-1 deals, tasting menus and cooking demonstrations. More than 25 venues across the town have already signed up to participate.

29th March

Makers Market, Friargate, Preston 10am – 4pm

This fantastic market showcases the goods of local, small businesses twice a month in Preston city centre.

30th March

Girls Who Walk Preston, Weekly Walk, Avenham Park, Preston 11am

Walking and social group in Preston. The perfect opportunity to get your steps in whilst socialising with likeminded girls, gays and theys.

@girlswhowalkpreston

12th April

Preston Health Mela 11am – 3pm

UCLan, Foster Building, Fylde Road, Preston Health exhibits, free health checks and advice, Reiki, Teddy bear clinic, Bollywood dancers and more. Free entrance and free campus parking.

10th May

VE Day 80th Anniversary

Celebration, Flag Market, Preston

At this celebration event history will come to life through a range of events and performances, starting with the parade. Vintage music will transport you back in time with songs from the wartime period.

21st April

Traditional Easter Egg Rolling, Avenham Park, Preston Don’t miss Preston’s egg rolling event on Easter Monday, complete with entertainment for all the family. Market stalls, artists and performances plus interactive workshops.

3rd – 4th May

Preston Weekender, Flag Market, Preston

Global superstar Pete Tong, and one of the UK’s biggest bands of the 90s, Embrace, are to headline this year’s ‘Preston Weekender’. On Sunday, multi-million selling Embrace will headline the band-led part of The Weekender, with support from the epic

25th May

Caribbean Carnival, Moor Park, Preston

Celebrating the flamboyant, creative Caribbean culture within the city, this is a great day out for all the family and the procession is followed by a Caribbean themed family fun day on Moor Park.

31st May

Preston Sup n Mooch

Charity walk in Preston, covering 15 miles and 15 pubs in aid of Lancashire Mind. Starting at Chew’s Yard and covering Fulwood, Ashton and Penwortham.

@prestonsupnmooch

LANDLORDS & TENANTS…

The Renters Reform Bill continues its journey through Parliament but what changes does it seek to bring and what could that mean for both landlords and tenants in 2025? Stephen Warren Forbes’ Solicitors Technical Conveyancer and Property Support Lawyer explains

In early February 2025 the Renters Reform Bill (hereinafter ‘the Bill’) passed its second reading in the House of Lords. The Bill still has a little way to go before it becomes law, but it is expected to receive Royal Assent this spring with an implementation date to be confirmed in due course.

There has been quite a bit of publicity around this Bill. The previous Government tried and failed to push a previous version through and the issue of rent reform was one of the few issues that seemed to receive unanimous approval amongst the main political parties during the last election.

What is it though that makes this Bill so important? The answer will depend on

which side of the fence you find yourself.

If you are a landlord with a residential property portfolio then I would suggest it is of paramount importance to understand the proposed changes that are being introduced. What is interesting is that the Government is claiming that the Bill will improve life for both tenants and landlords. In the words of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government: “The bill will improve the current system for both the 11 million private renters and 2.3 million landlords in England.”

Will this be the case though? Many landlords have already expressed significant concern, for instance about ending Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and this is only one of the key parts of the Bill.

Under current legislation a landlord retains the right to recover possession by serving a notice pursuant to S21 of the Housing Act 1988. They are coined ‘no fault’ evictions as the landlord does not need a reason to serve notice – so long as they give the tenant notice complying with relevant time frames and conditions, then it will be valid. There need not be any default on the part of the tenant. This creates uncertainty for tenants because once they are outside of a fixed term they become vulnerable to a landlord serving a S21 notice at any moment. The Bill seeks to do away with S21 evictions, which is a

concern to many current private landlords. There are far more changes the Bill seeks to introduce that this article can cover in detail, but these include:

• Strengthening Section 8 evictions (as a compromise for landlords regardind the loss of S21 evictions).

• The removal of fixed-term tenancies.

• Changes to how landlords can increase rent.

• Tenant rights in relation to pets.

• The introduction of the landlord redress scheme and the private rented sector database.

• The Decent Homes Standard applying to private rented landlords. There is a fine line that the Government needs to tread. On the one hand they want to introduce changes that will mean greater stability for tenants and create a fairer rental market for all. That needs to be balanced out with landlords retaining the right to access their properties for legitimate reasons and not to overburden landlords with further regulation. Whether or not the Bill, as currently drafted, achieves these aims this article will not attempt to answer. Whether such a balance can be achieved we will see in time.

For the moment for those involved on both sides, but particularly landlords, it is important to seek support from specialist lawyers to help you understand what your responsibilities and rights are going to be moving forward. It may be wise to be proactive rather than reactive. n

To speak to a Property Lawyer contact Stephen Warren on 0333 207 1130 or email: stephen.warren@forbessolicitors.co.uk

We bring our personable approach to the world of commercial law, going out of our way to make life easier. Each one of our specialists can offer expert advice across a range of sectors.

Skippool Road, Thornton-Cleveleys

Offers Over £2,100,000

Wrea Green, Preston Offers in the Region of £1,400,000

This spectacular property was built in the 1920s and extends to some 11,000 sq. ft with further accommodation to include a cottage, swimming pool, garaging and stables.

Set in grounds of 11.4 acres (4.6ha) this impressive 15 bedroom home was designed with style and lavishness. Displaying glamour that you would expect from a prestigious property from this era, yet retaining plenty of character with high ceilings and sash windows just to name a few.

This impressive 6 bedroom home enjoys a commanding position overlooking the village green and is within walking distance to the village amenities.

This gorgeous green side home has been beautifully finished in a contemporary style, with a fabulous galleried landing and high gloss kitchen units. This home is encapsulated in attractive and well-presented gardens at the front with a gravelled driveway, parking area and a double garage.

Park View Road, Lytham St. Annes

Offers Over £1,000,000

Treales, Preston

O.I.R.O.

£950,000

House and immediate grounds of 1.8 acres OTA

O.I.R.O.

£1,100,000

House and immediate grounds of 1.8 acres OTA, plus additional 11.4 acres OTA

Positioned at the end of Park View Road, the incredible 6 bedroom home is perfectly located for those who love to walk through Green Drive, Park View or into Lytham centre itself.

Boasting impressive and substantial living accommodation, this beautiful home oozes period features including a turret window, high ceilings and deep skirtings. Externally the property provides a front garden area and a large parking area and to the rear a landscaped enclosed garden with a decked area.

This gorgeous and spacious home is set in beautiful gardens and grounds extending to 1.8 acres (0.75ha) with the option to purchase a further 11 acres (4.6ha).

A home that perfectly blends contemporary with traditional. Extended and improved by the current vendors, offering immaculately presented space throughout, the accommodation of this 4 bedroom property has been set up to take in the incredible views.

ON SCREEN

A MINECRAFT MOVIE

Release Date: 4th April

Director: Jared Hess

Starring: Jack Black, Jennifer Coolidge, Jason Momoa and Emma Myers

Certificate: PG

Jack Black takes the lead role in this adaptation of the world-conquering video game franchise. Black plays Minecraft character Steve and Aquaman’s Jason Momoa is Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison. The plot follows four misfits struggling with ordinary problems when they are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master this world while embarking on a magical quest. n

THUNDERBOLTS*

Release Date: 2nd May

Director: Jake Schreier

Starring: Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan and Lewis Pullman

Certificate: 12A

Prepare to meet the Thunderbolts* – they’re not the Avengers but they pack a real punch! Marvel’s second offering of 2025 pulls from several previous MCU titles and features Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Red Guardian (David Harbour), Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylendko) and U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell). Expect carnage and mayhem as this motley crew embark on a dangerous mission to confront their own dark pasts. As the tagline reads, be careful who you assemble! n

Discover the new and exciting films coming to The Flower Bowl cinema in Preston. Book now at theflowerbowl.uk

SNOW WHITE

Release Date: 21st March

Director: Marc Webb

Starring: Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot and Andrew Burnap

Certificate: TBC

Disney’s live-action remake machine continues apace with this glossy take on the groundbreaking 1937 animation. Rachel Zegler plays the plucky Snow White while Gal Gadot is the cackling Evil Queen who goes to extreme lengths to claim the ‘fairest of them all’ title. Marc Webb, known for directing the Amazing Spider-Man movies, directs and there are songs from The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen’s Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Snow White promises to be one of the most magical movie events of the year. n

THE AMATEUR

Release Date: 11th April

Director: James Hawes

Starring: Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan and Laurence Fishburne

Certificate: 12A

After playing a Bond villain, Rami Malek now steps into the shoes of an undercover spy in The Amateur. Just as the title implies, this thriller sees the actor playing an agent with no on-the-field experience. His character, Charles Heller, is a CIA decoder who loses his wife after a terrorist attack. Determined to take down the people responsible for killing his soulmate, he soon shows that he is much more equipped for this mission than those around him think he is. n

OUR CURATED RANGE OF PRESCRIPTION GLASSES AND SUNGLASSES ARE DESIGNED IN ENGLAND AND HAVE BEEN HANDMADE SINCE 1950. INSPIRED TO BE TIMELESS.

Discover Westholme

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