Live Ribble Valley Issue 122 (Jan 2021)

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 2

GO THE DISTANCE 2021 FITNESS, FASHION & WELLBEING GREEN & CLEAN ENTREPRENEUR’S NEW VENTURE BOX FRESH TERRIFIC TAKEAWAYS DIGITAL WONDER ARTIST MICHAEL HUNTER

AU TOM AT E D BLIN DS Solutions that put you in control

Battery powered blinds are cost effective, easy to maintain and ideal for areas that require a wire free solution.

BATTERY BASICS These blinds use regular store bought batteries with a battery life dependent on size and frequency of usage. This means the potential to open and close thousands of times on a single set of batteries - located within the headrail and simple to fit without the need to take down the blind.

BLIND SIZES Standard widths up to 2.4 metres and height up to 3.6 metres.

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Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB 01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

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14 GREEN & CLEAN Having enjoyed a high-flying career in advertising, Sam Whigham has been equally successful in setting up his own London-based, eco-conscious company that puts people and planet before profit.

40 MEET THE DESIGNER SISTERS We talk to sisters and best friends, Sophie and Abbie Schofield, who are carving out new, highly successful careers together in a business based in the Ribble Valley.

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WONDERFUL WEDDINGS Couples who have chosen to get engaged during 2020 will have lots to look forward to in 2021!

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LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Robert and Amanda Parker are taking their family home and business, Browsholme Hall, well and truly into the 21st century. They reveal how they spent lockdown planning and implementing plans for the forthcoming year.

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ABSTRACT ART GOES DIGITAL With his work featuring in galleries and private collections in the US and Europe, artist and photographer Michael Hunter finds inspiration from texture, colour and music to create stunning digital collages.

REGULARS 10 EDITOR’S LETTER

17 HOMES INSIDE OUT 64 FASHION 70 HEALTH & BEAUTY 84 LIFESTYLE 114 EDUCATION 128 BUSINESS 136 MOTORS 138 FOOD & DRINK 145 ARTS & CULTURE

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150 PROPERTY

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YOUR DAY LIKE NO OTHE R

In these challenging times we understand how difficult it can be to plan the day of your dreams.

That’s why our weddings team is on hand to help you. We’ll provide all the support and flexibility you need to ensure that every finest detail of your big day is delivered in style, whatever you wish for ... Only at Stanley House

To check our diaries please call our wedding experts on 01254 769200, email weddings@stanleyhouse.co.uk or visit www.stanleyhouse.co.uk Stanley House Hotel & Spa, Mellor, Lancashire BB2 7NP Subject to availability on your chosen date, and the number of guests in your wedding party. Terms and conditions apply.

Photography supplied courtesy of (clockwise from top left): Lesley Meredith Photography / Jo Boulton Photography / Samatha Broadley Photography / Red Sweets Photography / Project Valentine

LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Jan Woolley Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Sales Account Managers: Michele Preston 07872 461 561 Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Photography: Vanessa Fry, Roger Moore and Kirsten Platt Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Alice Burns, Kate Hyde, Lauren Molyneux, Sarah Varley, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE Office 2 The Old Bakery, Green Street, Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 366 002 LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston.

Live Magazines Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs.

While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Subscription: An annual subscription is available at ÂŁ25, to cover postage and packaging.

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Loom® LOFT furniture & interiors

LIVING · DINING & OCCASIONAL · INTERIORS · BEDROOM · BISTRO A stylish furniture and interiors store with a delectable bistro, located in the heart of Lancashire’s stunning Ribble Valley at Barrow Brook Business Village, Clitheroe.

Loom Loft, Barrow Brook Business Village, Holly Road, Barrow, Clitheroe, Lancashire, England, BB7 9WF | 01200 404404 | www.loomloft.co.uk | Open 7 Days a Week MONDAY-SATURDAY 9.30AM-6.00PM, SUNDAY 10AM-4PM

Live

Magazines Editor Well what a year! Let’s look forward to better times in 2021 when hopefully we can see our loved ones unrestricted, eat out with friends and take much-needed breaks.

It’s been tough, but now that we can see light at the end of the tunnel, let’s go into the New Year with a positive attitude.

There’s a lot of positivity in this issue of Live Ribble Valley – we meet the team at Northcote, which when forced to close their doors, launched Northcote at Home Gourmet Boxes, which have been a triumph! At their height in the run up to Christmas the team were creating up to 500 boxes a week!

It’s a great success story and one that we have heard many times over the past few months, of local businesses, including many small independents, having to diversify and being stronger for it.

Another business that has had to adapt is Browsholme Hall. With weddings and visitors at the core of the business, Robert and Amanda Parker used lockdown to plan how the hall could diversify. They are now planning a series of events for 2021, including workshops, training courses, skills-based classes and educational events. They are also embracing technology that will safeguard and propel Browsholme into the future.

While it might not have been considered the best time to be at the helm of a fledgling business, the past few months have been another success story for young entrepreneur Sam Whigham, whose Londonbased eco-conscious company Wilton, is going from strength to strength. Impressed with the company’s eco-credentials, many people turned to Wilton London online when they were unable to source their usual cleaning products during lockdown – and they have stayed with them ever since! Sam, who was educated in the Ribble Valley, tells us all about his journey setting up the business, which has been awarded the coveted B Corp status, which verifies that Wilton London meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

So, there’s lots of positive people out there doing great things – we must support them in 2021 and beyond! From the team here at Live Ribble Valley, we wish you all a very happy and healthy New Year!

Jan Woolley Editor

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 2

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 97

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 1

GO THE DISTANCE 2021 FITNESS, FASHION & WELLBEING DECK THE HALLS FABULOUSLY FESTIVE INTERIORS MOLLY ROBBINS CAKE MAKER EXTRAORDINAIRE

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS THE BENEFITS OF SHOPPING LOCALLY

PURE LUXURY CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

ALL THINGS GARSTANG EXPLORING THIS HISTORIC TOWN

FORGING AHEAD BLACKSMITH OSCAR DUCK

ART, SCULPTURE, EDUCATION DESIGNS WITH A DIFFERENCE

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Preston & Fylde

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A Contemporary Contemporary Kitchen Kitchen with with a country country feel feel Jo Joand andGraham’s Graham’sextension extensionon ontheir theirLancashire Lancashirehome homewas wasbrought broughttotolife lifewith withan an incredible incredibleKitchen KitchenDesign DesignCentre Centrekitchen kitchenthat thatmakes makesthe themost mostofofthe thehigh highvaulted vaulted ceiling ceilingand andlarge, large,light, light,open openplan planspace. space.

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Jo Josays, says,“everyone “everyonewho’s who’sseen seenthe thekitchen kitchenabsolutely absolutelyloves lovesit.it.We Wedesigned designedour our previous previouskitchen kitchenourselves ourselvesand andmade mademistakes. mistakes.Having Havingititexpertly expertlydesigned designedhas has made madesuch suchaadifference. difference.ItItnot notonly onlylooks looksfantastic fantasticbut butisissosowell wellthought thoughtout. out.

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Designer DesignerLucy LucyBannister Bannister says, says, “This “Thiswas wasa adream dreamproject project toto work work on, on, it itwas wasananabsolute absolutepleasure pleasure toto work work with withJoJoand andGraham Grahamwho who were were soso open opentotome meleading leadingthe the design. design.

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GREEN & CLEAN Having enjoyed a high-flying career in advertising, Sam Whigham has been equally successful in setting up his own eco-conscious company that puts people and planet before profit, writes Jan Woolley

than just making money for shareholders.

“I think I’m the generation that started being aware of their own footprint. That’s not to say it’s always been my main prerogative, but as the years have gone on and I’ve learnt how easy it actually is to be eco-conscious, it’s become really important to me. I think it’s about educating yourself from multiple sources

L

ondon-based entrepreneur Sam Whigham found inspiration from Columbia Road Flower Market when developing products for his progressive new company, which manufactures botanical cleaning products featuring essential oils from plant-derived ingredients.

Endorsed by a host of national publications including the Daily Mail and Ideal Home, Wilton London was founded by Sam in 2015, but it wasn’t until 2018 after years of research, that the products launched onto the market to much acclaim.

“Developing a product takes time.

We’re using lots of new and interesting eco-ingredients so putting our formulas together can be a lengthy process. It starts by sourcing the right ingredients that will not just do a good job, but are also naturally derived and sustainable,” explains Sam, who was educated at Oakhill College in Whalley, where he excelled at art and design technology.

“I was always much better suited to learning by doing,” adds Sam, who went on to study Advertising Design at Salford University, where he won Student of the Year in the Drum Awards.

“I learnt how to creatively conceptualise adverts and when I left university I learnt how to be an ad man on the job,” recalls Sam, who during his university holidays, had badgered various advertising agencies for an internship.

“It eventually paid off at an agency called VCCP, which created the ‘meerkat’ adverts.

They offered me a job.”

In the years to follow Sam worked on many and varied advertising accounts including O2, Easyjet, EE, Meantime Brewery, Amazon and Asda.

But as time progressed, he found himself becoming more eco-conscious: “I wanted to work for a business that had a bigger cause

AS A B CORP WE MEET THE HIGHEST VERIFIED STANDARDS OF SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE, TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY “I love making stuff so rather than work for a business that I didn’t particularly care about, I started my own. It was a massive move. To start with I’m not a chemist and now I make cleaning products. I’ve had to learn just about every aspect of running a business from scratch – but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It makes me laugh at how much I know now, about things that at one time would and flown right over my head!”

With all Wilton London products made in the UK, Sam is fully involved in every aspect of their manufacture.

“I know everything about my products and have gone through a lengthy process

to choose the right ingredients – tracing supply chains right back to where the plants are grown.

“We look at the formula, amending it to find the right balance of ingredients that perform best. But the bit that takes the longest is probably the fragrance. We develop our own unique fragrances full of essential oils, that’s why our products smell so good and are really different to other products you’ll find in the supermarkets.

“When we think we have a couple of good fragrances, we hand samples out to friends and family who give us their very honest opinions.”

Sam is also involved with the packaging of products and is passionate about sourcing it responsibly: “It takes a long time because we’re always looking for innovative ways to reduce packaging. We use recycled plastic in our bottles, which isn’t very common and, we’ve worked with our UK bottle suppliers to actually reduce the amount of plastic in our bottles to half the normal weight.

“We’ve just launched some new plasticfree sponges, they’re made of wood pulp but still soft and absorbent. It’s quite a unique product because nearly all sponges are made from non-recyclable plastic and if you find one that isn’t, it’s usually packaged in plastic. So, we had to develop custom packaging for our sponges.”

While many companies claim to be ultra eco-conscious they are sometimes not what they seem, as Sam explains: “There is a lot of greenwashing out there, where companies try to make it look like they’re creating solutions, when actually it’s just making the issue worse. ‘Biodegradable’ plastic is a great example of this – I could talk for hours about this!”

For Sam and Wilton London, the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns meant that many households were unable to buy their usual cleaning products, and being a ‘green’ product, they decided to try Wilton.

“People have definitely been mindful of cleaning!” adds Sam. “We managed to stay i n stock at all of our stockists during the first lockdown. It’s worked really well for us, as those who tried out Wilton London products for the first time, are now re-purchasing.

I’ve had emails from new customers who have told us this, they said they didn’t want to try eco products, because usually

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they don’t work and they say they have been pleasantly surprised at how effective ours were!”

Wilton London’s ethics statement formulated by Sam, reveals the company remains mindful of the surrounding community, and that the company endeavours to give back as much as possible: “We’re still small but we’re engaged in lots of charitable causes and rarely turn down an opportunity to help. For example, we ran a promotion for Black Friday and called it ‘Bright’ Friday. Instead of offering our customers a discount, we donated cleaning products with every order to foodbanks, because it’s not well known that foodbanks need these kind of products. Last year, rather than a 30 per cent discount, we donated 30 per cent of sales to the Make A Wish Foundation.”

More recently Wilton London was awarded ‘B Corp’ status, something that Sam has worked hard towards achieving: “This is a really big deal and something that’s going to get talked about quite a bit I suspect! More and more products are becoming B Corp including Jamie Oliver, Pip and Nut and Ella’s Kitchen. As a B Corp we meet the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

“We’ve actually changed our company’s legal documents to make it illegal for us not to put people and planet before profits. B Lab, the people that manage the

certification, delve really deeply into the business to make sure we’re doing everything we can to be truly eco-conscious and socially responsible – they even checked where we buy our pens from! The process took a year to go through. It’s really important for me as it’s teaching me how to grow a responsible business whilst we’re still small and it’s easy to make positive changes.

I LOVE THE IDEA THAT MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS CAN NOW PICK UP A BOTTLE OF WILTON AT THEIR LOCAL SUPERMARKET! “Being B Corp is a great way of showing consumers they can trust us and know they’re buying into a brand that’s putting the planet first.”

Turning to his northern roots to add more Wilton stockists, Sam approached Lakeland and Booths supermarket with whom he has enjoyed considerable success.

“The process of getting through to big retailers is really hard and takes a lot of

perseverance – especially when you’re small.

So, it was up to me to prove that we might be small but that doesn’t mean we’re not grown up. Some retailers like Lakeland and Booths are willing to support new brands and give them a chance, some others take a lot more persuading.

“To get in with the larger stockists there’s been lots of pestering lovely buyers! Lakeland was our first big stockist and they’ve been really supportive helping us grow with them. Lakeland are a great match for us, they also prioritise the environment in the way they do business.

“Booths has a soft spot in my heart as we used to do some of our weekly shops there as a kid, so seeing Wilton on their shelves felt like such an achievement! We launched with them in October. I love the idea that all my family and friends can now pick up a bottle of Wilton at their local supermarket!” n

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homesinsideout and now is also the time to prune currant and gooseberry bushes.

A simple garden solution for January is to bring colour to container evergreens. It’s a good idea to invest in a basic collection of container evergreens – box, conifer, holly and bay – that you can customise through the seasons by adding bedding plants around the base of each bush. You can create a mix of containers that look great grouped together or scattered through the garden with a variety of colourful plants decorating them such as white cyclamen for winter, lavender blue pansies in spring and white and pink daisies in summer.

Another plant great for instant winter-spring colour and perfect for containers, window boxes and borders is the primula. The majority bloom in the spring, but they

START PLANNING FOR THE YEAR AHEAD It may be cold outside but there is plenty of gardening you can do with your feet up inside at this time of year

N

ow is the best time to see the overall structure and shape of your garden which means you can assess what you already have and plan on how to improve it.

January garden checklist: • Clean and oil garden tools • Scrub pots so they are disease free and don’t infect new plants • Sharpen secateurs • Take the lawnmower in to be serviced • If it snows, shake it off evergreens, hedges and conifers to stop the weight causing any damage • Treat timber fences, archways and sheds with wood preservative • Bring mature shrubs to life by pruning older branches as close to the stem as possible • Keep container plants protected from frost and check to see if they need watering • Remember to put out food and water for birds

You don’t have to spend a fortune and your garden can be any size whether in the country or in a town. Have a good look through the seed catalogues for summer flowers you can grow from scratch and flick through gardening books and manuals for ideas and easy to implement garden tips.

If you’re thinking of growing your own fruit and veg then it’s a great time to plant seeds indoors for some early crops such as lettuces, summer brassicas such as cabbages and cauliflowers, spinach and salad onions.

A job for January is to get seed beds ready

have been known to flower through mild winter. There is a wide range of colours available from bright yellow to pastel reds and blues and they can grow in most soil types and be planted in sun and semi shade.

They can be used very effectively in bedding schemes with tulips and other winter-spring bedding plants or planted alone in blocks of colour. When planting primula in containers, use multi-purpose compost and ensure that they never dry out – and remember to dead head the plants regularly as this will encourage a longer flowering period. n

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RELAX & ENJOY A warming spa massage or an invigorating swim, you can have both with these premium products from Ribble Valley Spas

I

magine, after a busy day, venturing out to your garden and immersing yourself in a beautifully relaxing warm, steamy spa. Or take an invigorating swim then sit back and unwind. Pure bliss!

Ribble Valley Spas are a premium hot tub and swim spa supplier based in the North West which operates throughout the UK. After sourcing jacuzzis and swim spas for a boutique hotel brand, the company decided it was time to share these outstanding products with everyone.

All Ribble Valley Spas’ hot tubs are made using top-quality materials and components from market-leading suppliers including Aristech Acrylics® and Balboa Water Group® meaning they are able to offer best-in-class warranties on all products.

The team at Ribble Valley Spas go to great lengths to ensure that all hot tubs are as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible, which is why everything they offer comes with R10 full foam insulation and heavy duty covers.

AMALFI HOT TUB: The Amalfi hot tub is the ideal family spa, with two full size loungers and space for four people. It really is the perfect place to unwind after a stressful day. Using premium components from

BALBOA® and Aristech Acrylics® Ribble Valley Spas ensure your hot tub will be a reliable investment for years to come.

LUGANO SWIM SPA: At just under six metres long the Lugano swim spa has enough space for a swim spa plus an independent hot tub. If you’re looking for the perfect place to work out, then look no further.

The Lugano’s three turbo swim pumps give you a perfectly balanced current to swim against making endurance swimming easy.

THE LUGANO’S THREE TURBO SWIM PUMPS GIVE YOU A PERFECTLY BALANCED CURRENT TO SWIM AGAINST Need a place to catch your breath? No problem – the Lugano’s swimming pool has three seats with 10 hydrotherapy jets so you can sit back and relax. And, when it’s time to wind down, just hop into the Lugano’s very own hot tub, which has a lounger and four seats loaded with 21 hydrotherapy jets, so you can benefit from that welldeserved massage.

If you would like to know more about Ribble Valley Spas’ products including the Amalfi hot tub and the Lugano swim spa, do not hesitate to contact one of the team – they will be more than happy to help! n

Ribble Valley Spas Willows Stables Gibb Hill Lane, off Goodshaw Lane Goodhsaw BB4 8TN 01706 600072

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ribblevalleyspas.co.uk ribblevalleyspas

We are a family run business based in the heart of the Ribble Valley. With 15 years industry experience we offer a personalised project management service tailored to fulfil your exact requirements.

Our high quality bespoke kitchens are individually designed in any configuration or colour at competitive prices.

AWAR D W INNI NG PERSON ALISED QUALITY D ESIGN AN D INSTALLATION

Call Katie on

01200 444540

to book your exclusive studio or home design appointment

Backridge Farm Business Centre, Twitter Lane, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe BB7 3LQ

www.heartofyourhomekitchens.co.uk

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WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND Transform your child’s bedroom into a whimsical wonderland with Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan

nted

oung minds benefit hugely from the use of colour.

Stimulate their imaginations withplayful,inventiveinteriors based around the things they love. Create fantastical scenes inspired by ancient history, fairytales, or world travel to pique their interest and sow the seeds for a lifelong passion,” advises interiors expert Annie Sloan.

“By doing this you can instil in your child a strong sense of pride in their own environment and, in some rare instances, a desire to keep bedrooms tidy! Disclaimer – no paint colour has been proven 100 per cent effective in this area!”

MDF is the ideal material to transform children’s bedrooms. Upgrade basic bunkbeds with a coat of Chalk Paint ™ or if you’re a proficient DIYer, create a gateway to a far-off fantasy land or the entrance to a magical castle with a piece of MDF cut to size at your local hardware shop, painted in a contrasting shade to the walls so it really pops.

Inject some fun with fabrics – a curtain to pull across a bed creates an instant secret hideaway, while piles of cosy cushions are great for snuggling up and den-building.Forget the gender-typical colour diktats – teach them young that any colour is for everyone!

Available in 44 shades which can be mixed to create your own palette, Chalk Paint ™ can be applied to almost any surface without any priming or sanding. Water-based, odour-free and low in volatile compounds, Chalk Paint ™ has been independently tested and certified as toy-safe according to European regulations.

Bunk bed in Chalk Paint ™ in Napoleonic Blue and Scandinavian Pink with Clear Chalk Paint ™ Wax. Curtain in ticking in Graphite with scallop detail in linen union in English Yellow and Antibes Green. Floor in Chalk Paint™ in Old White with Matt Chalk Paint™ Lacquer. n anniesloan.com

YOUR ONE STOP-SHOP FOR ANNIE SLOAN PAINTS, WAXES, BRUSHES AND BOOKS

Also offering a complete home interior design service and a wide range of fabrics and wallpapers.

5a Accrington Road Whalley Lancashire BB7 9TD 01254 825275

www.theofanointeriors.com

@TheofanoWhalley

Theofano Interior Design

discover... true individuality

KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS | PANTRIES | BOOT ROOMS | DRESSING ROOMS | STUDIES | SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY | FREESTANDING FURNITURE | INTERIOR MOULDINGS

SKIPTON | ILKLEY

www.secret-drawer.co.uk The Secret Drawer - RVL SP 14-12-20-AW.indd 1

08/12/2020 16:34

TRANSFORM YOUR HOME… Whalley Home Improvements, which launched earlier this year, is going from strength to strength with its team of skilled tradesmen and world class products

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aving been inundated with enquiries and orders, Whalley Home Improvements founders Graham Fielden and Emma Hodgkinson, are delighted to announce they are expanding their team.

“We couldn’t have wished for a better start,” says Emma, who worked for more than six years for world-leading manufacturer, Ultraframe, in Clitheroe. “It’s going really well and we are so busy!”

Whalley Home Improvements offers the very best in window and door fitting, building construction and a full project management service.

Graham, of long-established joiners Frank Fielden and Son, heads up the joinery side of the company, overseeing the installation of windows, doors, kitchens, tailor-made staircases and pergolas. From listed buildings, which may require bespoke wooden windows and doors, to modern home extensions, Whalley Home Improvements will oversee your project from conception to completion.

WHALLEY HOME IMPROVEMENTS WERE BRILLIANT. THEY WERE REALLY PROFESSIONAL AND DID A GREAT JOB! The line-up of first-class manufacturers featured at Whalley Home Improvements include Rockdoor, Rehau, Ultraframe, which manufactures globally-renowned roof systems, as well as top quality products from Affordable Window Systems, which

manufactures aluminium and flush sash windows, and Pearl Window Systems’ stunning Signature Collection.

If homeowners choose windows from Pearl’s Signature Collection, in connection with Corgi Fenestration and Whalley Home Improvements, they get a direct manufacturer’s 10-year warranty on all window parts, including things such as handles and hinges.

Partnering with such highly respected manufacturers means Whalley Home Improvements can offer doors and windows in UPVC, timber and aluminium in a wide range of beautiful heritage colours and styles which include: • Casement windows • Flush sash windows • Bi-fold windows and doors • Tilt and turn • Sliding sash windows • Rockdoors • French doors • Stable doors • Conservatory roofs by Ultraframe • Single story extensions • Full build conservatories and orangeries Specialising in orangery construction, extensions, conservatory roof replacement, and fitting windows and doors of all

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different styles and materials, Whalley Home Improvements are perfect for any project no matter how large or small and they are fully CORGI Fenestration accredited too!

Emma explains: “The skilled team at Whalley Home Improvements are all extremely experienced and familiar with products manufactured by the likes of Ultraframe and Rockdoor.”

Over the past few months, Whalley Home Improvements have been working on a variety of projects throughout the region including a replacement roof on a conservatory at a detached property in Wilpshire. Homeowner Deborah, explains: “The conservatory was around 17 years old and I really wanted to be able to use it all year round, but the old-fashioned polycarbonate roof made it cold in winter and too warm in summer.

“Whalley Home Improvements replaced it with a tiled roof with two full glass panels to make it light and airy. I also had the double doors, leading into the conservatory, removed to make it open plan. I was worried it wasn’t going to be warm enough but it’s absolutely perfect!

It has transformed the conservatory, which I now use all the time!

“Whalley Home Improvements were brilliant. They were really professional in their communication and they do what they say they are going to do. They did a great job!”

Emma adds: “Deborah’s dilemma was fairly typical. Many homeowners find that the temperature varies too much with the old-style polycarbonate roof – the Ultraframe roof system provides a perfect solution.”

From initial contact to final fitting, the experienced, knowledgeable team

IT’S ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. IT HAS TRANSFORMED THE CONSERVATORY, WHICH I NOW USE ALL THE TIME!

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makes sure all projects are finished to the highest of standards and that customers are fully satisfied.

At the start of each project Whalley Home Improvements’ Bev Lea ensures all the work is carried out to plan, commissioning in-house technical surveyors Brian Clews and Mike Taylor, who have many years’ experience in the trade. Once the order is placed Bev will organise a fit date and select individual tradesmen or specific teams to work on the project.

Emma concludes: “We know how important it is to meticulously plan every project so that everything runs smoothly.

Communication between us and the customer is also key and because we have such an experienced team working with trusted, quality manufacturers, we aim to deliver each project on time and within budget.” n

Whalley H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S LT D Whalley Home Improvements Ltd Unit 22, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01254 824179 07809 711662 emma@whalleyhomeimprovements.co.uk whalleyhomeimprovements.co.uk

INTERIORS

part of the kitchen family

We are currently operating by appointment only, however, you are welcome to browse providing that we can adhere to the social distancing measures.

KITCHENS

BEDROOMS

BATHROOMS

01282 448800

SCAN ME

info@clearlyinteriors.com

Virtual Tour of our showroom

www.clearlyinteriors.com

@clearlyinteriors Unit 3, Holme Road, Burnley, Lancashire,

@clearlyinteriors

BB12 0BJ, (Junction 11, M65)

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SOLUTIONS FOR A NEW YEAR DECLUTTER With extra storage required for gifts received, your whole living space may well be feeling the big squeeze

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s we usher in the New Year, many of us will have ‘a good sort out’ on our list of resolutions – you may even have plans for a more dramatic transformation.

Regardless of the size of your project, adequate storage provision is essential for combatting clutter by making it easier to tidy things away. These are our ideas for a less stressful and more harmonious home:

and accessories, such as handbags and ties, can be a challenge. Coats and dresses require an area suitable for long-hanging items, thick jumpers need deep shelving and accessories are best filed away in interior drawers. By investing in furniture that has tailored compartments for everyday basics, you can get your wardrobe in order.

BOOKS, DVDS AND RECORD COLLECTIONS

SHOE RACK SAVIOUR

Shoe racks are a must-have storage solution if you don’t want to waste time searching for your favourite boots beneath a pile of wellies and trainers. You’ll also want to ensure your footwear stays in top notch condition. Fitted rails can solve your shoestoring woes, utilising previously redundant and wasted space beneath clothes rails in the bedroom, which will be hidden away, or beneath coat hooks in the porch, which will look neat and orderly.

WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

Storing coats, occasion wear, chunky knits

an organised space for your home admin, your paperwork, files and office resources need a designated place. While a grey steel filing cabinet may do the job, you can avoid this eyesore by choosing bespoke furniture.

A tailormade design will be both aesthetically pleasing and ensure that the time you spend in your study is as productive and efficient as possible.

BULKY BEDDING

Over the years, we seem to accumulate an inordinate amount of bed linen, pillows and duvets. But without a cupboard large enough to keep them all together, it is likely you will have bedding in random places around the house. Over the bed cupboards or deep, wide wardrobe shelving will keep bed linen and other bulky items, such as towels, out of the way.

AT HOME IN THE OFFICE

Whether you work from home, or need

If your book collection is rapidly turning into the leaning tower of Pisa, it may be time to invest in some bespoke shelving.

Displayed well, books and your media collection can make your house look inviting, comfortable and full of character. So instead of letting them pile up, your favourite books, films and music can become a statement feature with an innovative storage solution.

From multipurpose solutions to furniture which embraces quirky architectural features, fitted furniture will improve the look of your room and make it feel bigger. n Hartleys Rooms offer a bespoke service, working with you to create exactly what you need from your space

You can visit online at: hartleysbedrooms.co.uk or call 01756 700471 to arrange a home design visit

THE COOKER THAT THINKS IT’S A STOVE

HARTLEYS FIT TING FURNITURE FOR YOU

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LOVE YOUR FIRE KILN DRIED HARDWOOD LOGS KINDLING • LOG STORES • COAL

made locally just for you To request your FREE design visit, call 01756 700471

Tel: 01756 748342

Or visit our factory/showroom

Email: hello@anchorlogs.co.uk Order and pay online

Open Mon to Fri 9:30am–4:30pm Please call for an appointment

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WHAT’S HOT FOR 2021?

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n business for more than three decades, Canterbury Fireplaces really are the experts when it comes to wood-burners, gas and electric fires. With two installation teams, all HETAS and Gas Safe registered, there’s no better place to go if you are looking for a hot new focal point for your home!

2020 was an interesting year for everyone and many people took the opportunity to remodel their homes, have you found that you have had lots of enquiries from homeowners wanting to add or replace their fires?

Yes, it’s certainly been a strange year!

From when we reopened in June after the first lockdown, we have been inundated with enquiries and orders. We have taken on new members of staff on the installation side of the business, including a Gas Safe apprentice.

People had to cancel holidays and they certainly haven’t been going out like they normally would, so they have chosen to spend their money on renovations and

Lucas Everett of Canterbury Fireplaces talks about trends for 2021 and advises on which fires to suit your home and lifestyle it appears that fires have been a big thing.

We have also had a lot of enquiries from people working from home. If there is just one person in the house working in one room running one gas, electric or wood-burner then it’s far more cost effective than central heating.

With more people encouraged to social distance outdoors have you had many enquiries about outdoor fires?

During the first lockdown we had lots of enquiries about our Kamado ceramic grills as they are the best you can get, superior quality with the best heat retention and temperature control. People had time on their hands, we had some beautiful sunny weather so many homeowners were cooking outdoors in the garden. We sold quite a few – throughout the UK sales rocketed.

And, in the run-up to Christmas we sold outdoor grills and fires as people were buying them as gifts. We also sold the Legend Garden Cube as a Christmas gift as I think people are looking ahead, wanting to spend much more time outdoors, even in the colder months. The Cube is an amazing outdoor wood-burning stove that has all

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the functions of an indoor wood-burner.

It looks great and will keep you and your guests snug and warm – perfect for the times we are living in!

Moving on to interiors, what is going to be the predominant trend in fires?

We have seen trends come and go but the popularity of electric fires started in 2020 and it just seems to be getting bigger. I think it’s because here in the Ribble Valley there are so many new-builds. Because new-builds feature super-efficient insulation they retain the heat well, so you don’t need warmth.

However, there’s no focal point and homeowners want something that really stands out in a room.

Media walls – with a three-sided fire that feature a TV recess have been a continuing trend and we sell more electric ones than gas.

Younger people who are buying new-builds under the Help to Buy scheme, are tending to go for more contemporary styles.

But, because our showroom features every style of fire including electric, solid fuel, wood-burners and gas, we don’t have to promote one style of fire over another.

We can just advise customers on what we think would suit their home and lifestyle.

We have such a wide variety to choose from – whether its for a modern home, a Victorian house or barn conversion, we will have a fire to suit you.

We are always moving with the times and constantly updating our showroom.

With regards to technology, have there been any interesting developments that have made certain fires more efficient/ eco-friendly?

There’s probably been more money spent on improving the technology of electric fires recently. Houses in general have better central heating, double glazing and insulation so they are becoming more eco-friendly but while people want a focal point, they don’t necessarily want heat all the time. The investment in technology on electric has resulted in ultra-realistic flames created by LED colour-changing lights that can be controlled by an app or Alexa. So, homeowners can have a fire that looks realistic, is a focal point but without extra heat. It still looks and feels welcoming and with anti-reflective glass, it looks totally realistic.

By the end of this year all stoves have to be eco-design ready, but we have selling eco-design ready stoves since 2017 so we are well in front with that.

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Log-burners fit well in both traditional and modern interiors. Tell us about to how these have been made more efficient?

Log-burners remain extremely popular and have become clean-burners and are really efficient. We only sell the very best from British-made to those manufactured in Europe and Scandinavia. The brands we sell are the best in the world and include Contura, Stovax and Esse.

Finally, what type of fire do you favour?

That’s a tricky one as all the fires we stock are really great quality. I personally have a Contura wood-burner in an open plan large living room at home. And in another room I have an electric fire similar to the media suite I’ve mentioned. It a very contemporary look but you can have different contrasting styles – it works well. Whatever style the customer desires Canterbury Fireplaces can design, supply and install. n

Canterbury Fireplaces Canterbury Street, Blackburn BB2 2HP 01254 682574 info@canterburyfireplaces.com canterburyfireplaces.com @canterbury_fireplaces

The most versatile room yet…

Workspace Studio Gym Retreat Spa Garden Room Theatre

Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG Call us on 01772 703 777 or visit croftgardenbuildings.co.uk

Designed for you‌

Designed for you...

Conservatories Orangeries Windows Doors Garden Rooms Sunlounges Roofline

Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG Call us on 01772 703 777 or visit croftconservatories.co.uk and croftgardenbuildings.co.uk

MEET THE DESIGNER SISTERS

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Sisters and best friends, Sophie and Abbie Schofield, are carving out new highly successful careers together in a business based in the Ribble Valley. Photography: Kathryn Taylor

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ollowing their father into the plumbing and building industry is not something that sisters Sophie and Abbie Schofield ever anticipated, however a new-found passion for the family business, coupled with a keen eye for design is now what is setting them apart as leading bathroom designers.

Based at their showroom and studio in Clitheroe, over the past two-and-a-half years the sisters have carved out a niche – combining a flair for cutting edge design with an unrivalled knowledge of Europe’s most iconic bathroom brands, to create designer rooms marrying style and function.

“Our father has worked in plumbing for the past 35 years – so perhaps bathrooms have always been in our blood,” explains Sophie. “We certainly never expected to be having in-depth conversations with him about water pressures, soil stacks and joist positioning, but this understanding of construction and plumbing is absolutely crucial to the design process. We are just as at home in a hard hat on a building site or home renovation as we are in the studio.

“We’ve both had a love of design and interiors since a young age – and it’s something that bonded us together.”

Previously, the sisters have carved out successful careers in other industries – Sophie has a background in branding and marketing and Abbie in luxury goods sales and customer relations management.

“In 2018 we realised that there was a real gap in the market – homeowners and developers in the north were crying out for so much more than a run of the mill bathroom. They wanted carefully thought-out, cutting edge design, quality craftsmanship and high-end fixtures and finishes along with a showroom where they could touch and feel the products.

We knew that we could add a completely new dimension to interior design in the region, so we joined forces to share our passion for creating truly unique spaces.”

With a shared passion for design and a

complementary skill set from their previous careers, it was a natural step for the sisters to go into business together.

“Our dad has always been a role model – he set up his business at 18 and instilled an entrepreneurial spirit and a work ethic in us from a young age,” explains Sophie.

Being close in age the duo have always been close as sisters as well as being best friends: “It is this bond that means we can each tell instantly what mood the other is in without even talking, and we can often, almost telepathically, understand what each other means or wants done with very little background information required. This is highly unusual in the workplace, but hugely advantageous,” says Abbie.

WE CAN OFTEN, ALMOST TELEPATHICALLY, UNDERSTAND WHAT EACH OTHER MEANS OR WANTS DONE WITH VERY LITTLE BACKGROUND INFORMATION REQUIRED As designers, the sisters love to get under the skin of every project, gaining an in-depth understanding of the space and the challenges the project may present.

“This is why it is so important that from the very beginning we understand every nuance of the bathroom we are designing.

“Some people come to us with a very clear vision of what they want, while other clients have a completely blank canvas and want to be excited and inspired. We enjoy really getting to know them so we have a clear understanding of their lifestyles, how they use their home and what they want from their bathroom. People at different life

stages, different size families, even different hobbies and interests really do use their bathrooms in different ways, so it is important to us that we marry our designs with the individuals using the space.

“We also work with developers looking to wow prospective buyers, as well as other designers who partner with us for our insight and understanding of luxury bathrooms.”

Since lockdown in March the sisters have noticed a real shift in how people view their homes and the design details that they are demanding. “People have been spending so much time at home this year, and with travel a lot more restricted, people have been diverting their disposable income or savings towards home improvements,” says Abbie.

From a design perspective Abbie and Sophie are using a lot more darker tones in bathrooms this year as people look for a space which offers them the ultimate escape.

Now more than ever, clients want their bathroom to be a sanctuary, a completely different space to the rest of their home.

“We have been using a lot of clever lighting details, interesting brassware in matte black or brushed gold and wood finishes to create really subtle but luxurious finishing touches.

“Looking ahead to 2021 we are starting to see coloured ceramic in pastels coming through, matte white brassware, coloured marble effect tiles and alternatives to ceramic basins – in glass or pressurised solid surfaces. The darker tones will continue to be popular, but pastels will really start to become a dominant design trend too – possibly reflecting a growing optimism as we start to leave the realities of 2020 behind.” n Sophie and Abbie are the founders and managing directors of Ribble Valley Bathrooms

ribblevalleybathrooms.co.uk

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PEP-UP THE FEELGOOD FACTOR A few jaunty accessories can help pep up the feel-good factor in your home. Here are some new additions that could well bring some joy in the New Year!

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et’s face it, we could all do with a bit of cheering up at the moment and we can do this by adding some stylish accessories to our living spaces.

Go rustic

Chilling out

Ooh for lots of drinkable bubbles instead of Covid-era social ones! We can still enjoy a corker of a champagne bucket with this large aluminium cooler – the chunky handles are seriously impressive and when not storing a bottle or two it can be used to display faux greenery or spring bulbs.

The rusticity and solidity of stone that looks like it’s survived a century or two outdoors always looks great in any interior – contemporary or traditional.

Where precious metals add glamour, stone brings us right back down to earth and the two very different materials can work well together.

Precious metal

Lustrous gold adds opulence and warmth to your interior, even if it’s just a glimmer here and there. It will deliver a shimmer just where you want it, as will glass decorative candle holders and vases with a beautifully delicate leaf motif.

Luscious succulents

Echeveria are desert plants with attractive fleshy, waxy rosette-shaped leaves that conserve water well. Fortunately, with the faux variety, you can get the same realistic look without the hassle of watering. Set in a rustic stone trough, these little treasures look wonderful on a windowsill or shelf.

Let there be light

Mirrors throw light around a room incredibly effectively and you don’t only have to hang them from walls. Mirrored trays are small enough to lean against shelves or be propped up on consoles or side tables to reflect light (especially useful in a dark corner) or used as trays on coffee tables or ottomans so that you see glints of light as you look down at them.

Light fantastic

Lamps will shed a comforting light to come home to in deepest winter. Throughout the year lamps will light up alcoves and make every room that bit more welcoming. n

laresidenceinteriors.co.uk

Importers and stockists of exceptional tiles and stone

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

ITALIAN INTERIORS Sarah Varley meets Venetian plaster expert Joe Rhys, who explains why this fabulous finish is perfect for creating stunning interiors.

Photography: Vanessa Fry

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agnificoat owner Joe Rhys answers questions on Venetian plaster, a specialist, luxurious wall finish used to create beautiful living spaces.

What is Venetian plaster?

Venetian plaster is the ultimate bespoke wall-surfacing product, as it can be customised to suit the style of your home.

It can be smooth or highly textured, polished to a gentle gleam or a high-gloss, mirror-like glaze.You can choose a bold colour, a pearlescent or metallic finish, or a pared-back neutral. Venetian plaster can also be designed to mimic the look of

natural materials such as marble, travertine or limestone. It gives a really high-end finish to your home or business.

What are the advantages of Venetian plaster over other decoration methods?

Authentic Venetian plaster has many advantages. Our natural earth colourants will not fade or change over time as paint does. Most of our plaster finishes are much more durable than other alternatives, making them ideal for high traffic areas in your home or commercial setting.

Italian plaster finishes are environmentally

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Is it easy to maintain?

Lime plasters are described as ‘lifetime’ finishes – they are said to be less prone to shrinking and cracking than cement finishes and will develop a beautiful patina as they age. A wax coating will help repel dirt – it is recommended that you re-wax your Venetian plaster walls every couple of years.

If cleaning is required, use only water or mild soap as bleaches and harsh cleansing agents can damage the surface. It is also anti-static so it repels dust.

And the million dollar question, how much does it cost?

With its depth, sheen and tactility, Venetian plaster is undeniably luxurious and it comes with a price tag to match. The finished result is dependent on the quality of the plaster mixture and the application technique, and it is quite labour-intensive, so expect to pay from £100 per square metre for materials and installation, depending on the finish you want and the type of space you’re having decorated.

WITH ITS DEPTH, SHEEN AND TACTILITY, VENETIAN PLASTER IS UNDENIABLY LUXURIOUS

Are your products green? friendly and create a healthier environment for your home or business as they don’t release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) – many other materials such as paint and wallpaper continue to release VOCs long after they have dried.

Can it be used in bathrooms?

Absolutely, it’s perfect for bathrooms because Venetian plaster offers a grout-free, low-maintenance alternative to tiles or natural stone. It is naturally resistant to mould and mildew, and, in terms of hardness and durability, is comparable to tiles.

Yes. They are a healthy option for your home as well as the environment. As an all-natural material, Venetian plaster won’t release harmful VOCs and the added lime gives the plaster a high pH level and is a natural fungicide, which means it won’t harbour mould. Our natural lime plasters and paints are VOC-free and our synthetic plasters have extremely low VOCs. They are all manufactured according to European environmental standards.

Can you customise a plaster finish just for me?

Certainly. Because of the artistic nature of Italian plaster application, each wall will be a unique statement with its own distinctive look. We will work with you or your designer to customise colours or combine plaster finishes to create a beautifully coordinated finish.

Our stencils are also a great way to add a distinctly customised look. They can be used to create a raised pattern on your wall, or to create a ‘watermark’ effect, such as your business logo in your reception area.

ITALIAN PLASTER FINISHES ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND CREATE A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT

Finally, tell us about your new showroom and training school We are really excited to be opening our new showroom in February here at Backridge Farm. It’s a great location and we will be able to showcase our expertise and give you some inspiration with just some of the thousands of options available.

Our training school is already up and running.

We offer an ‘Introduction to Venetian Plastering’ course, where you can learn seven different techniques for applying this fantastic product. n

Magnificoat Backridge Farm, Twitter Lane Clitheroe BB7 3LQ ​​07860 372424 magnificoat.com /magnificoatvenetianplaster /magnificoat

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OUT OF SIGHT...

OUT OF MIND Creative solutions that place those work-

Anna Souroullas takes a look at related items out of sight once the working some inventive solutions to keep day is done may help to lower your stress our home and work life separate levels and create balance. Storage solutions

N

ew Year’s resolutions are notoriously arduous to stick to so let’s keep it simple.

Working from home has become a part of many people’s working landscapes, and it looks as though it may remain a part of our reality, at least for now.

While this new way of working has been a positive adjustment for some, for others the transition has been a little less smooth.

Maintaining a work-life balance has never been more important but having the ability to separate work from home life can be challenging for those without a designated office space. This separation between our two lives is key to making this new reality work. Being surrounded by reminders of work around our homes after clocking off is an obstacle we have to overcome. For this reason, the New Year’s resolution that I advise is to get organised!

don’t have to be boring or plain. There are options out there to suit every style and every budget to create a space that blends seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Here are some out-of-the-box (pun intended) ideas to help you organise your space, no matter how big or small.

SHELVES

I can almost guarantee that there will be a shelf out there that is perfect for your living space – freestanding, floating, hanging and even rotating. Whether custom built or bought, the list is endless. The practicality of some may leave something to be questioned, but it is purely personal preference. A hexagon shaped shelf may be great to look at and to store a few personal things, but it is unlikely to house all your work-related items. Have a browse and see what catches your eye.

THE FAMOUS HOME COMPANY

SALE IS NOW ON

Visit our spacious store to view our extensive collection of quality British made and locally crafted furnishings and accessories.

Monday Closed. Tuesday - Friday 10 - 4pm Saturday 10 - 5pm and Sunday 12 - 4pm. *hours subject to change – private appointments available to book via our website High Corn Mill, Skipton, North Yorkshire. BD23 1NJ T: 01756 794999 E: info@thehomeco.net | W: www.thehomeco.net

SALE STARTS JAN 4TH Call: 01706 281 700 Email: info@burningdesireuk.com Web: www.burningdesireuk.com

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

There is just so much to see at the Burning Desire Showrooms in Ramsbottom: From real wood burning stoves to gas and electric fires to fire surrounds and the Everhot electric range cooker - we have the lot!

Remember: Most of our fires are available for live demonstration, so why not call in and see for yourself why Burning Desire are the Number One Choice for fires in your area.

Visit Burning Desire Fireplace Centre: Unit 9, Cuba Industrial Estate, Bolton Road North, Stubbins, near Ramsbottom, Lancashire BL0 0NE

FREE PARKING ~ FREE SURVEYS ~ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

BD_Ad_200x140_1220.indd 1

Friendly and experienced advice on all aspects of: Fireplaces ~ Gas & Electric fires ~ Stoves ~ Installation 08/12/2020 13:36

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Arguably the most important technique for smaller spaces. Filings cabinets and desk tidies take up a minimal amount of space but can be packed full of your working essentials. The best part? Once that drawer is closed, work reminders are hidden.

Upcycle old cabinets and create a storage unit that complements your living space but still provides the practicality needed.

Explore different avenues and create something amazingly unique. Dull filing cabinets? Nowhere to be seen.

STACKING

Add a little life to your workspace. Here’s one for you. How about using a trellis as a notice board? Use pegs to hang motivational quotes, to do lists or even photos of family and friends. That way, your desk remains clutter free and you even have a little positivity injection when you glance up from your work – we all need one sometimes!

Why not hang plant pots on the trellis?

Bring elements of nature inside, or alternatively use them as a storage pot for pens, pencils and other small stationery you have laying around!

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

WALL-MOUNTED UNITS

It is amazing what you can achieve with a few bits and pieces from the garden centre.

small space or bedroom. Specialised storage pieces allow for the unit to be mounted onto a wall, with a desk that slides out for convenience. No bulky storage infringing on your floor space! Once you finish work, simply tuck it back into the unit. Out of sight, out of mind. Your space can remain the tranquil sanctuary you envisioned without the worries and stress of the outside world imposing on your downtime.

The perfect work from home solution for those of us whose ‘office’ is confined to a

PORTABLE CADDY OR BASKET No designated work space? Like to move between rooms for a change of scenery?

Purchase a basket or caddy and place all your working essentials inside. Varying in size, there is definitely at least one suited to each individual’s needs. Perfect to hide away once the day is done and perfectly portable. Everything you need regardless of your chosen room for the day.

Storage: boring and utilitarian, or creative and inspirational? I’ll let you decide! n

(A6) Garstang Road | Brock | Nr Preston | Lancashire | PR3 0RD Tel: 01995 643455 | Email: info@rockform.co.uk | Web: www.rockform.co.uk

Importers & stockists of exceptional tiles, stones & wood flooring

WINTER WARMTH visit Pendle Stoves’ stunning showroom in

Cosy up this winter with a Colne, which features a fantastic selection stunning new wood burning or of live display stoves in both contemporary multi-fuel stove from the experts and traditional styles. at Pendle Stoves

W

ith the nights getting colder, winter is well and truly here so now is the ideal time to think about installing a wood-burning stove in your home.

With over 30 years’ experience and an unrivalled level of knowledge, the team at Pendle Stoves are renowned throughout the North West for their expertise, competitive pricing and professional service.

To get a real idea of how a wood burning stove can improve your home and increase energy efficiency, make an appointment to

Owner Michael Horsfall explains: “Wood burning and multi-fuel stoves are an incredibly practical way to heat your home, while also making a beautiful feature in any living space.

They can be installed almost anywhere, even in spaces that don’t have a chimney, and

we are seeing more people choosing to have them in conservatories, orangeries and extensions, making them a warm and inviting space.”

Pendle Stoves offer stoves from a variety of high-quality manufacturers including Swedish made Contura, Purevision and ACR. The stoves come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and colours.

All the stoves offer excellent efficiency rates, with cast iron allowing for an even output and ambient room temperature.

This means that by switching to a wood burning stove you can expect to save up to 50 per cent on traditional gas heating costs, and up to 80 per cent on electric heating.

Because the fire is contained behind a glass door, it doesn’t feed on the open air from the room, meaning you can have a beautiful crackling log fire without the disadvantages

homesinsideout

“We had two stoves installed

by Pendle Stoves and we couldn’t be happier with the service.

They install quality stoves with quality materials – and this is reflected in the end result. I believe, as with many things, you get what you pay for – there are cheaper installers out there, but we are thankful that we have paid for and received quality. We would happily recommend them.”

Heather Ransom

“So happy with our new stove and fireplace. The installation guys are so friendly and very knowledgeable. I would strongly recommend, excellent customer service before, during and after – 10/10.”

Sue Wright

51

of a traditional open fire.

Wood burning stoves are also more environmentally friendly than gas or oil heating. Modern wooden logs and pellets are produced to hold very little moisture, meaning that they provide a clean burn, and every tree used for firewood is replaced, making it a truly renewable energy source.

Pendle Stoves will undertake all aspects of your stove installation, including all building and construction work, decorative linings for fire chambers, supply and installation of suitable hearth materials, supply and installation of a choice of wooden beam styles, false chimney breasts, plastering and all types of flue systems. All work is undertaken by their teams of Gas Safe and HETAS qualified engineers.

Whatever style you have in mind, talk to the experts at Pendle Stoves and you will be curling up in front of your own luxuriously warm stove in no time! n

Pendle Stoves 40 Albert Road, Colne BB8 0AD 01282 866986 pendlestoves.com

Beautiful designs and affordable prices KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS

REDSCAR KITCHENS (PRESTON) LTD A23 Red Scar Business Park (off Longridge Road) Preston Lancashire PR2 5NE 01772 700012 | jlholderness@outlook.com | redscarkitchens.com

MULTI AWARD WINNER - UK RETAIL ART GALLERY OF THE YEAR

GIFTS FOR EVERY OCCASION – BIRTHDAYS - WEDDINGS - ANNIVERSARIES – CELEBRATIONS – GIFT VOUCHERS

SALE

SALE STARTS Saturday 2nd JANUARY 2021 ENDS Sunday 10th JANUARY 2021

Riders on the Storm Original Painting by Caro SaintVire WAS £4200 NOW £2995

Lavender Stag Original Painting by Allan Morgan WAS £745 NOW £395

Thin White Duke Limited Edition Print by Nick Holdsworth WAS £995 NOW £445

Vision of Green 1 Original Painting by Gisela Ueberall WAS £395 NOW £275

OVER 300 ARTWORKS AVAILABLE ON-LINE DIRECT FROM OUR WEBSITE TO YOUR HOME SPECIALISTS IN COLLECTABLE ORIGINAL PAINTINGS, LIMITED EDITION PRINTS AND SCULPTURE BY LEADING NORTHERN AND INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS

Hepplestone Fine Art Limited, Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5PA. 01257 451121 sales@hepplestonefineart.com www.hepplestonefineart.com Visit the Gallery - we are 5 minutes from Junction 27 off the M6. Open 7 days with Ample Free Parking or Buy On-line with FREE UK Mainland Delivery.

BESPOKE FRAMING SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE

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Photography: Kirsten Platt

the pods are available with a solar-panel and generator pack meaning they can be located in remote areas.

The experts at Ribble Valley Pods can also carry out feasibility studies for businesses and landowners looking to add glamping accommodation, advising on the projected return on their investment based on extensive knowledge of competitors’ rates and occupancy figures. They can also manage the whole planning process from application to installation.

PERFECT POD Hand-crafted by artisans, these lovely pods can be tailored to perfectly suit your individual needs and underfloor heating, while within the Scandi-style interior there is pine cladding, downlighting and sockets with USB ports.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

A

n enterprising new start-up, Ribble Valley Pods, has recently unveiled their glamping wonders to the world!

These luxurious pods are hand-made here in the Ribble Valley by skilled craftsmen, who have many years’ experience.

Made of top-quality materials, come rain or shine Ribble Valley Pods can be whatever you want them to be. They’re a home from home, a garden office, a romantic escape or a simple shelter after a long day in the Ribble Valley countryside.

Aimed at differing markets, the pods come in three sizes as Andrew Henry explains: “The small pods are ideal for fishermen, walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, as a warm shelter.

“The medium pods are perfect as a home office or garden room.

“The larger pods are great as glamping pods for those wanting a romantic break, with plenty of opportunities for Instagramable moments!”

All Ribble Valley Pods are extremely durable and can be tailored to each individual. The pods have a strong, rigid CNC frame and a tiled roof, full insulation

ALL THE PODS CAN BE TAILORED EXACTLY TO YOUR NEEDS, FROM AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF OPTIONS The larger pods come with kitchenettes, shower-rooms and built-in double beds and sofas as standard, and all the pods can be tailored exactly to your needs, from an extensive range of options including bluetooth speakers, flat-screen televisions, mood lighting and combi-ovens. Not forgetting the wood-fired hot tubs!

Off-the grid glamping is also possible as

THEY’RE A HOME FROM HOME, A GARDEN OFFICE, A ROMANTIC ESCAPE OR A SIMPLE SHELTER AFTER A LONG DAY IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY COUNTRYSIDE “We offer a full turnkey service,” adds Andrew, who has been exploring a wide range of businesses that may benefit – from glamping sites to wedding venues needing extra accommodation and PLCs who are looking to help their staff work from a home office.

“Some employers are helping with the costs of setting up a home office in order that employees can re-organise their working lives,” explains Andrew.

“We are thrilled to be based in the Ribble Valley using local craftsmen. Together we have over 50 years’ experience in residential and chalet construction. We are keen to promote local tourism, helping landowners to diversify away from agriculture and generate new income streams.

“Whatever you need from your pod, we can advise and craft it just for you.” n

Ribble Valley Pods Countryside Comfort

Ribble Valley Pods Le Dale Park, Longsight Road Clayton-le-Dale BB1 9EX ribblevalleypods.co.uk

Bathrooms to inspire... athrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms Bathrooms to inspire... inspire... hrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms toto inspire... ...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you over 16 years we have been creating everything ...for over ...for 16 years over we 16foryears have been we have creating been everything creating everything you or kitchen. you ...for over ...for 16 years we have been creating everything you ...for over 16 years we have been everything youbathroom need acreating luxurious &you practical forneed a luxurious & bathroom practical bathroom or kitchen. for aneed luxurious for luxurious & practical & bathroom practical bathroom or kitchen.or kitchen. need for aneed luxurious & practical or akitchen. for need a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

spired in Our showroom open Monday to Saturday Bed in SHOWROOM OPEN is FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, in in in d d e e e ir ir in sp sp d e in in ir e e B B ourSHOWROOM insp sq ftSHOWROOM 0OPEN 300SHOWROOM 9am to 5pm by appointment only.

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The Original Bathroom Company The The Original Bathroom Company The Original The Original Bathroom Bathroom Company Company The Original Bathroom Company Original Bathroom Company DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL UE•PS•PI N LS D Y NY S P•TP•AI LN LSYLSUT•P API N G •SP ILSG DESIGD N E •S ISGD UNEP SP•ILGSYDN SNTEP•A LUN U LL LYS T• AILNL S T A L L

tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel:611622 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel:611622 01772 tel: 611622 01772 Road, 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel: 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel: 611622 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket

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

The Premier garage door range blends the convenience of power operation with smooth, vertical opening and the benefits of insulation to provide the perfect solution for any garage.

SAFETY & QUALITY Manufactured fromNEVER foam filledCOMPROMISED aluminium lath, available in a full range of colours and four wood effect finishes. We are confident we can accommodate your requirements and enhance your property.

Greenwoods

Vehicle Re-finishers

Operated by a tubular motor, complete with a manual override facility and controlled by a comprehensive remote control system to Prices include start from courtesy light and full safety system, ÂŁ800we guarantee all year round access.

BODY WORK INSURANCE ACCIDENT REPAIR PAINT SPRAYING

Features include a unique auto-lock system to prevent the door from being lifted when in fully closed position and a safety brake mechanism to prevent the door from falling when in the fully open position, making your garage safe The Premier Garage Door range theat convenience andblends secure all times.of power operation with smooth, vertical opening and the benefits of insulation toAdditional provide the perfect solution for any garage. benefits compared to conventional Features include a unique auto-lock system to garage doors are thethereduction and prevent door from being in liftednoise when in fully closed position and a safety brake mechanism to heat loss whilstprevent freeing up the door fromvaluable falling when ingarage the fully open making your garage safe and secure at space. A vehicleposition, can be parked within 50mm all times.

Operated by a tubular motor complete with Additional benefits compared to conventional of the door inside or out without disrupting a manual override facility and controlled by garage doors are the reduction in noise and heat loss a comprehensive remote control system to whilst freeing up valuable garage space. A vehicle operation.

Manufactured from foam filled aluminium lath, available in a full range of colours and four wood effect finishes. We are confident we can accommodate your requirements and enhance your property.

include courtesy light and full safety system we guarantee all year round access.

can be parked within 50mm of the door inside or out without disrupting operation.

Acorn Door Systems

Sample colours

Your local garage door company

www.acorndoorsystems.co.uk

Phone: 01254 704132

The above swatches are for guide purposes only and do not represent an exact match.

ACORN DOOR SYSTEMS

Specialising in high quality vehicle re-finishing and accident repairs, Greenwoods Vehicle Re-finishers are a family-run business established over 25 years ago.

www.theoddchaircompany.com 01772 784 974 London Showroom Tel: 0207 730 6442 sales@gvrf.co.uk www.gvrf.co.uk

Lancashire Showroom Tel: 01772 691777 Kestor Lane Longridge Preston PR3 3AD

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

Making your furniture beautiful again A local, family business who have been helping to rejuvenate homes throughout the UK for the past 60 years.

Our unique in-home service is reliable, friendly and trusted to help guide you on any of our services...

Reupholstery Sofa & chair covers Curtains and blinds Discounted factory stock All products are handmade by expert craftspeople right here in Lancashire.

Visit our newly refurbished showroom today Brookhouse Mill Old Lancaster Lane Ashton-on-Ribble Preston PR1 7PZ

01772 259 995 plumbs.co.uk

LUXURY SHOWCASE high-end project with Pringle Homes, perfectly showcasing what we do best.

“The Northcote Park homes are absolutely stunning and the level of quality and choice for buyers is amazing. Every detail is perfect for each individual client. Our job is to provide the perfect tiles, which is a really important design feature.”

The homes at Northcote Park offer the perfect luxury lifestyle in a glorious

Sarah Varley speaks to Jody White of Collins White about the prestigious tile importer’s exciting collaboration with Pringle Homes

B

uyers of the luxury properties at Pringle Homes’ exclusive new Northcote Park can expect the very best of everything, including a bespoke design service from the team at renowned tile importer and distributor Collins White in Clitheroe.

Collins White provide an inspirational selection of the highest quality ceramic and porcelain tiles imported directly from hand-picked factories in Italy and Spain.

It is for this exceptional choice, quality and service that Collins White was chosen by Pringle Homes to provide their Northcote Park buyers with the perfect tiles for their new dream homes. Pringle Homes’

EVERYTHING IS FINISHED TO A REALLY HIGH SPECIFICATION AT NORTHCOTE PARK AND IT REALLY IS A JOY TO HELP CLIENTS CHOOSE THE RIGHT TILES Commercial Director Sam Fleuriot says: “Collins White provide a great service.

They have a fantastic range of products and our customers have been really happy with the selection available.”

Jody White of Collins White, adds: “It is fantastic to be working on this really

homesinsideout location overlooking the Ribble Valley.

Family-run Pringle Homes are one of the North West’s most exclusive house building companies bringing exceptional quality and design to their new homes.

There are 29 four and five bedroomed dwellings at Northcote Park, all crafted from carefully selected, traditional materials such as locally-sourced stone, slate and chalk render, inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement.

Having sold five of the nine homes available on Phase 1, it is apparent that Northcote Park is proving extremely desirable.

The interiors comprise of wow-factor features and an impressive specification throughout, including vast expanses of glazing, high ceilings, fully tiled bathrooms and underfloor heating.

with five warehouses also means that Collins White have 400-500 pallets of tiles available at any one time, meaning fast delivery as well as choice and an ability to store tiles for customers until they are ready for them – a great benefit for any project.

Jody. “Sending clients to us for this bespoke design service works really well for them and Northcote Park is a lovely showcase of our work as this process is completely transferable for any project large or small.” n

PRINGLE HOMES AND COLLINS WHITE ARE FAMILY BUSINESSES THAT HOLD THE SAME VALUES Buyers have an individual private appointment with Collins White when they can choose exactly what tiles they would like for the kitchen, bathrooms and flooring.

“The buyers have ultimate control to create their perfect homes,” says Jody.

“They choose their perfect luxury kitchen and bathrooms with Pringle Homes’ chosen suppliers, then we help them design the best bathroom layout and select all their favourite tiles.”

Collins White’s large tile gallery provides plenty of inspiration for clients. The huge selection has been hand-picked by Jody and Carl for unparalleled quality and imported directly from their chosen factories in Italy and Spain. “Sourcing the tiles ourselves directly from the factories means that we can deliver high-end products at reasonable prices,” explains Jody. A huge storage capacity

“Everything is finished to a really high specification at Northcote Park and it really is a joy to help clients choose the right tiles to encapsulate the style they want, whether that is traditional, very modern or anything in between,” Jody explains. “Pringle Homes and Collins White are family businesses that hold the same values – a great product, delivered with outstanding customer support.You have to take pride in what you offer and we both do.”

The team at Collins White specialise in exactly this kind of collaboration with builders and architects, as well as individuals carrying out self-builds and commercial office projects.

“Pringle Homes and their buyers trust us to get all the fine details right,” says

Collins White Lincoln Way, Clitheroe BB7 1QD 01200 538973 collinswhite.co.uk

The Coach House Hollowforth Lane, Woodplumpton PR4 0BD 01772 690445 pringlehomes.co.uk

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CREATING BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS Live Magazines meets interiors expert and mum of two, Alisa Bowen, who explains how 2020 saw homeowners looking at their homes from a different perspective, creating more comfortable spaces for day to day living and working.

Photography: Fish2Commercial.co.uk

O

riginally from Belarus, Alisa Bowen was born to Russian parents but grew up on the sunny island of Cyprus. Her family moved frequently, allowing Alisa to see many different places, from apartments, bungalows, houses – and even a yacht.

She saw every new home as a blank canvas and enjoyed the experience of giving each place new character, adding personality through design and bringing out the best in any space. This experience kindled Alisa’s passion for interior design.

Prior to pursuing studies in medicine, Alisa completed a gap year in the romantic city of Larnaca in Cyprus where she immersed herself in fine art painting and understanding colour. Realising her love for design, she went on to study interior design in Cyprus while she gained valuable experience working in an interior design company designing summer villas and luxury offices.

In 2010, Alisa moved to the UK where she attended the University of Central Lancashire to complete an Undergraduate Degree in Interior Design. Alisa, who currently lives in Penwortham said: “Having had an English education in Cyprus, I knew I wanted to come to the UK to complete my studies and be inspired by this country’s rich and diverse creative design culture.”

It was also at UCLan where she met her husband Jonathan, who was studying Product Design in the neighbouring classroom. After becoming engaged during their studies, they planned their wedding abroad whilst Alisa was completing her final year and Jonathan his Masters. On the day Alisa handed in her final portfolio they travelled to Cyprus and were married a week later.

After graduating in 2012, it was a challenging year to find work in creative industries.

Alisa and Jonathan had always dreamt about having their own company and decided to

use this opportunity instead to set up their own design firm. However, Alisa was also faced with the difficultly of obtaining a marriage visa for the UK as the laws had changed drastically. It took two years for her marriage visa to be granted which meant she wasn’t allowed to trade as a director of her business until it was approved. Alisa used this time to build a strong foundation for the business, taking courses and learning all about running a successful business.

In 2014, Inside Studio began officially trading, with some of the first clients, to name a few, being a private developer, a listed barn conversion, and the renovation and extension of a large 1930s detached house.

In 2016, Inside Studio won the Preston Guild Merchant Award, receiving a grant to help set up commercial premises in the city centre. Inside Studio renovated a creative studio in a listed building on Lune Street, in the heart of Preston.

I KNEW I WANTED TO COME TO THE UK TO COMPLETE MY STUDIES AND BE INSPIRED BY THIS COUNTRY’S RICH AND DIVERSE CREATIVE DESIGN CULTURE In 2018, Inside Studio’s team expanded further, and the company relocated to a new studio space just off Winckley Square, allowing further growth. The new office space, located in a converted, character-rich coach house, offers a large boardroom for client presentations, a creative working environment, and two large storage facilities to aid with procurement, project management and installations.

Inside Studio now specialises in luxury residential and boutique commercial projects, working with private individuals and large property developers, as well as offering a bespoke art service through its sister company ‘Inside Gallery’.

Alisa ensures every project is met with a personal approach. “Creating a unique bespoke service for every client is at the heart of what we do. We take the client on a journey to create beautiful, elegant, comfortable, practical and timeless interiors, individually tailored to each client.”

With no trade shows taking place during the year where did you get your inspiration from?

“It was a very different year, but we have really seen the design industry come together and support each other. Suppliers have

B e

TRANSFORMING LIVING SPACES Homeowners are looking to improve their living spaces rather than move and are looking into new, innovative ways to refurbish their old conservatories. Our WARMroof Hybrid provides not only an aesthetically pleasing design, it also exceeds with its thermal qualities allowing homeowners to enjoy their new living space all year round. The Hybrid features double or triple glazed panels with plasterboard or hardwood timber interiors. It also allows for complete transformations with the option to add full height windows, bi-folding doors and unique exterior finishes.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.PREFIXSYSTEMS.CO.UK or call us to arrange an appointment to visit our showroom in Blackburn - 01254 920389

Cunliffe Road, Whitebirk Ind. Estate, Blackburn, Lancs, BB1 5UA Prefix (UK) T: 01254 871800

Prefix (South) T: 01604 750212

Prefix (SW) T: 01792 588254

Pavilion Systems T: 01903 739440

ftil

been very good at providing information and samples, and online platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram and Houzz are brilliant for inspiration and latest trends.”

While many companies have struggled during the pandemic, has interior design remained in high demand?

“Many people are spending their holiday funds on their homes instead, and they are seeing the importance of having homes that are functional as well as beautiful. At the beginning of lockdown we saw trades and commercial projects take a temporary break, but all projects are now back up and running, and we are working on new design schemes as well as ongoing work on sites.”

CREATING A UNIQUE BESPOKE SERVICE FOR EVERY CLIENT IS AT THE HEART OF WHAT WE DO So, what are the current interior trends?

“We are loving introducing deep tones of colours to schemes, such as burgundy, plum, and dark greens. These colours add richness and warmth, perfect for the colder months.

We are turning towards metals such as bronze and black, which add interest and contrast, and we are also seeing a lot of focus on comfort, which is added by using cosy fabrics such as boucle and wool.”

Has the pandemic affected how we design our homes?

“It’s made us look at our homes from a different perspective. We are no longer focusing on how the house works for entertaining guests, but how it serves us on a daily basis. The focus is on making it feel a place of safety and comfort.”

When should an interior designer come on board a project?

“Hiring an interior designer is something you should strive to do at the beginning of a project. Early planning with an interior designer helps to eliminate numerous revisions down the line, reach the final result quicker and ultimately save costs.

We work on full project renovations, alongside the architect and the contractor, starting from the early stages of space layout planning, lighting and bathroom design, through to all the details of the finishing touches. It helps to plan all the interior finishes and costs, to ensure the budget will allow to complete the project.” n insidestudio.co.uk

The Ribble Valley’s only approved Karndean & Amtico Specialists!

Visit our new Karndean and Amtico Showroom Domestic and Commerical Flooring Specialists

NEW RUG SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

JANUARY SALE NOW ON Our fitters are expert in commercial and domestic installations.

We supply and fit carpets for homes, shops, offices, schools, hotels etc. We have over 40 years experience in the carpet fitting and flooring industry and are happy to give advice if needed.

We can provide you with a selection of fine quality carpets, real woods, laminates and vinyls from our extensive range to suit your taste and budget.

• FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION

We pride ourselves on supplying and fitting quality carpets at affordable prices.

Please call to arrange an appointment to discuss your needs, or to view our samples.

• EXPERIENCED IN HOUSE PROFESSIONAL FITTERS • FACTORY PRICES

01200 429911

www.jarchercarpetsclitheroe.co.uk archer_carpets@outlook.com

J Archer carpets Ltd, Eshton Terrace, Clitheroe, BB7 1BQ

FREE EASY PARKING OUTSIDE AND DISABLED ACCESS.

ON THE MOVE Schoffel men’s Cottesmore fleece jacket £189.95, Schoffel ladies Tilton half zip £169.95 Ken Varey Town and Country wear 2-4 New Market Street Clitheroe BB7 2JW 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk *New store opens 21st January – see website for details

Ilse Jacobsen Rain 128 Army £220 Precious at Whalley 33 King Street Whalley Clitheroe BB7 9SP 01254 822620 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

Black Mamba sports bra price £22 Black Mamba leggings £32 www.peak15.fitness

Great I Am Stay Wild sports bra £18, Great I Am high waisted Wild Cat leggings £32 www.peak15fitness

fashion

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EXCLUSIVE NEW BRAND With an appealing ‘big cat’ logo, a new global sports and athleisure wear brand is now exclusively available in the UK from a Ribble Valley-based company

R

espected sports and athleisure wear company Peak15 has just launched an exciting, new Portuguese brand, Great I Am, for which they have UK exclusivity.

Renowned for stand-out design, hi-tech fabrics and the instantly recognisable ‘big cat’ logo, Great I Am has developed a worldwide track record for luxury sport and athleisure wear that will take you to the gym, on a run or meeting up for a (socially distanced) morning catch-up with friends!

Andy Murray of Peak15, which stocks a wide online collection of Great I Am womenswear, explains: “We are thrilled

to be the only Great I Am UK stockist.

It has great brand appeal and is well known for fantastic design.

“The consistency and durability of the fabrics was also a big deal for us, as well as it being great value.”

With a multi-generational appeal, Great I Am, which was launched in 2013 now competes alongside some of the best sports wear brands in the business: “In terms of quality and really outstanding design, we would compare it to some of the UK’s top producers of sport athleisure wear,” adds Andy.

“But the price point makes it much more accessible. And, in terms of good continuity and supply, it is fantastic.”

With Spain, Italy and France also stocking the Great I Am name, Peak15 was delighted to join forces with the brand: “Initially I was looking for a brand that ticked all the boxes in terms of good design and quality. We had a long discussion with Great I Am and they liked what Peak15 is doing. They like the fact that the brand will have a major online presence and having UK exclusivity, it made

sense for us to snap them up!” says Andy, who also retails Kukri women’s sportswear from the Peak15 website.

As well as the website Andy can be seen retailing sportwear at Clitheroe, Garstang and Kendal markets: “We have something for everyone! Sport and leisurewear appeals to people across the board.”

Expect to see more of Great I Am over the coming months on social media and at local gyms as Andy continues to drive awareness of this sought-after brand. n

PEAK15 FITNESS SPECIAL OFFER! 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR FIRST ORDER*

*To receive your 10% off simply sign up to emails on the Peak15 website now! www.peak15.fitness

Peak15 Fitness 07540 323418 info@peak15.fitness www.peak15.fitness

WHITE TIGER CROPPED HOODIE £35 GREY STAR PANTS £36 peak15.fitness

WOMEN’S KIRKBY CABLE HAT £22 crewclothing.co.uk

SPORTING STYLE

GUESS CONNECT TOUCH SMARTWATCH £229 hsamuel.co.uk

These great sporting accessories feature high-performance materials to take you through the winter and into spring TAG HEUER AQUARACER AUTOMATIC 300M. £2,300 Leonard Dews 18 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

DUBARRY LONGFORD WALNUT BOOT £379 Ken Varey Town and Country Wear 2-4 New Market Street Clitheroe BB7 2JW 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk

PENN SPORTS CREW JUMPER £14 primark.com

MEN'S PIKE LAKE HOODED JACKET £135 columbiasportswear.co.uk

WOMEN’S FKT WIND JACKET £70 columbiasportswear.co.uk

MEN’S LACOSTE COURT DRIVE TRAINERS £90 asos.co.uk

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

STASH+STOW BACKPACK FROM £79.99 Includes USB charging port, rechargeable power bank, laptop holder, wipeable trainers’ compartment, yoga mat straps, bottle holder, earphone slot and much more. stashandstow.com

michelle.b womenswear 2/3 King Edward Terrace, Gisburn Rd, Barrowford, Lancashire BB9 8NJ michelle@michelleb.co.uk www.michelleb.co.uk 01282 605060 /michellebfashion michellebwomen

DECLÉOR AROMESSENCE GREEN MANDARIN ESSENTIAL OILS-SERUM 15ML £55 For an instant glow, re-energise the skin and reduce the appearance of ageing. Includes green mandarin, sweet orange and lemon essential oils. decleor.co.uk

LE LABO BAIE SHOWER GEL £21 A rich, thick lathering shower gel that offers a few moments of serenity while cleansing your body.lelabofragrances.co.uk

SO SPA...

SO GOOD Create your own spa at home with these luxurious, indulgently scented bath and body products

L’OCCITANE VERBENA FOAMING BATH £26 Blended with organic verbena extract and essential oil with a coconut and palm oil foaming agent to create a silky bubble bath.

Scents skin with a light, lemony fragrance. uk.loccitane.com ELEMIS PRO COLLAGEN ROSE FACIAL OIL £67 A luxurious, English rose-infused facial oil that smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a petal soft radiance.uk.elemis.com

CLARINS TONIC SUGAR POLISHER £33 With essential oils of rosemary, rosewood, mint, sugar and salt crystals, it smooths away dry cells, flakes and impurities to reveal toned and glowing skin. clarins.co.uk

ELEMIS PRO COLLAGEN ROSE CLEANSING BALM £44 A nourishing cleansing balm infused with English rose oleo extract, easily dissolves makeup and grime for petal soft skin. uk.elemis.com

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

LE LABO BAIE BODY LOTION £47 Enriched with vitamin E and A, aloe vera, coconut and olive oil, this paraben-free hand and body lotion perfumes, softens and smooths your skin. lelabofragrances.co.uk NEALS YARD FRANKINCENSE NOURISHING CREAM £30 This is an extra rich moisturiser, with rejuvenating frankincense and myrrh essential oils to nourish and replenish all skin types nealsyardremedies.com NEOM YLANG YLANG, VETIVERT & TONKA BEAN NATURAL WELLBEING FRAGRANCE £40 This natural wellbeing fragrance is a warm, powerful and relaxing scent. Spritzed over the whole body, it not only scents the skin beautifully, but can help you to relax and unwind. neomorganics.com

DECLÉOR NEROLI BIGARADE HYDRATING LIGHT DAY CREAM £46 A 98% natural-origin light cream for hydration and anti-pollution. Includes neroli, sandalwood and petitgrain essential oils. decleor.co.uk

Amongst other things, 2020 will be remembered for being the year when everyone was meeting on video and it’s a trend that’s set to continue. How is it changing the way we see our skin?

F

rom work meetings to book clubs, we now live a lot of our life on camera. While our bottom halves are tucked out of view and comfortable in our lounge pants, our top half is on full show and we regularly look at our faces in great digital detail.

While it’s good to care for our appearance, self-scrutiny taken to extremes can lead to distraction and negative thoughts - both signals to hit the ‘hide self-view’ button and focus on the task at hand and maintain a positive self-image.

The positive side of seeing our faces so clearly and regularly is, just like other regular health-checks, we can spot troublesome dermatological issues and get them looked at by a skin specialist.

As Doctor Montero, of Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic in Burnley, says: “Whether you spot redness, rashes, pimples, pustules, lumps or bumps, they are likely to be common conditions, which we see and treat in our clinic.”

ROSACEA If you’re noticing redness on your nose, cheeks, chin and forehead, or you’re looking persistently flushed, or spots have also appeared - these may be signs of Rosacea.

A blood vessel disorder of the face, Rosacea affects women and men usually after age 30. Once diagnosed by an experienced medical practitioner, or dermatologist, laser

ZOOMING IN ON SKINCARE treatments are highly effective at reducing the unpleasant symptoms.

ADULT ACNE It’s been quite a stressful year, and acne sufferers may have noticed flare-ups getting worse. Others (particularly women going through menopause) may find pimples appearing for the first time since adolescence - this is known as adult-onset acne.

A frustrating condition, there is a range of highly-effective clinical treatments that can get it back under control, including laser, peels, prescription-strength skincare products and medication.

LUMPS AND BUMPS As we age, the smooth skin of childhood gives way to all sorts of mysterious lumps and bumps - these are the most important things to keep an eye on. It makes skin-sense to get anything new, unusual or rapidly changing checked out by an experienced medical practitioner or dermatologist.

Most times, your lump or bump will be just an‘age thing’ and cosmetic in nature, rather than an indication of a more serious health issue. Rather than putting up with them, which may affect the way you see

DISCOVER LASER, CROW WOOD ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT

www.discoverlaser.co.uk

your skin and your self-esteem, you can have them quickly and safely removed. State-ofthe-art treatments for benign and cancerous lesions can be carried out safely under local anaesthetic and give good cosmetic results.

SCARS Scars come in all shapes and sizes and can be a result of accidents, illness, burns, surgery and acne. They may have ‘always been there’, but seeing ourselves from a new perspective, it’s common to notice them anew and suddenly become bothered by them.

Once difficult to treat, new therapies such as laser, micro-needling and fillers can lead to a smoother, flatter and more even surface, resulting in scars being far less noticeable on camera and confidence more so.

So, the next time you’re on camera and notice something unusual, or even familiar, and would like a professional pair of eyes to take a look, get in touch with the expert team at Discover Laser. They will analyse your skin and recommend a course of treatment tailored to you.

Book your Dermatology Consultation by calling Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 Or visit their website, to find out about the conditions they treat and how: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

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Now we’re heading into a new year it’s time to think about our own personal health and wellbeing – and to feel our best, we often need to look our best

D

uring 2020, plenty of people felt their mental health had been challenged and their physical health neglected.

Working from home and not keeping up with personal fitness programmes led to weight gain, while hairdressers and beauty salons were closed, skincare and haircare regimes went by the wayside.

So, as we enter 2021 it’s time to reflect and take stock. What can we do over the next few months to improve and protect our personal health and wellbeing?

For a start we can all take some sort of exercise – even if it’s indoors but even better if it’s out in the fresh air. If you’re going to the gym, ensure you attend one that is hygiene conscious and adheres to government safety guidelines, that way you will be feel more comfortable and you will be more likely to stick to a regular exercise and work-out programme.

If you feel you’re not ready for the gym, go for a strenuous walk

or if running is your thing, grab your trainers and off you go!

Even if it’s raining, which it so often is, wear your waterproofs and get set for an adventure. After all, we live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, so we have lots to appreciate.

We all know that exercise helps the body release ‘feel-good’ chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that trigger a positive feeling in the body, so what are you waiting for?

Once you feel that high, you will be more likely to keep up your regime, see fitness levels improve, and if you need to combine this with weight loss why not set yourself a goal and begin the year by eating healthily, which in turn will improve your wellbeing.

If you’ve neglected your usual hair and beauty regime, it’s a good idea to use the new year to maybe find a new look. Many hair and beauty salons offer a whole range of treatments but be sure to find a reputable one that will provide the results you’re after. Everyone wants to discover a treatment that will result in more youthful skin, that will give a subtle ‘refreshed’ look. Well, there’s lots of treatments out there that will do the trick. Do your research, get yourself a consultation so you can talk any potential treatment through with an expert, then make an informed decision.

Looking good and feeling good – they go together. So, start 2021 with a positive attitude and see what changes you can make. n

DID YOU KNOW? We had a full refurb in July 2020 with an investment of over £80,000!!

3 MONTHS FREE! Get 15 months for the price of 12 when you sign up for a 12 month membership in January 2021.

Can I have a tour of the gym before signing up?

Who can sign up for this offer?

What happens if the gym has to close again?

Of course! We are offering a 1 week free trial so you can check out our facilities before committing to a membership.

Hurry though, you must sign up in January to get the 3 months free!

Both new and current members can take advantage of this great offer!

Hooray!

Nobody loses out through lockdown. We will freeze memberships that are paid monthly or add the months on to your membership if you paid annually.

All memberships include: A safe and clean environment • A full induction • Unlimited personal training advice to help you achieve your goals • Complimentary programme reviews to ensure continued results personalised to your needs • Access to over 120 classes per week, including 60 spin classes • Support and motivation from our qualified instructors • Access to our changing rooms, showers and relaxing sauna* • Discounted hire of sports hall, 3G pitch and other outdoor facilities • Free parking • Free wi-fi

To view our current Membership Price List, visit oakhill-leisure.com/join/ or contact us on 01254 824333 to discuss the best plan for you.

Follow us on:

In partnership with:

hello@oakhill-leisure.com | 01254 824333 | Oakhill Leisure, Wiswell Lane, Whalley, Lancashire, BB7 9AF * Please call the gym to check the current rules and regulations. These will be in line with the government requirements.

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If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone If youunderstands or someonewhat you know cancer, who you’rehas going through. you maywho findcan it helpful to personal talk to someone A team provide *Price based on asupport 3 night New Year Break who understands what you’re and expert information.

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Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle.

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

health&beauty

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LOVING THE SKIN YOU’RE IN...

Part two of melt’s timeless quest to feature world class, results-driven, skincare – Medik8 throughout the industry as the gold standard for protecting younger skin from the effects of ageing, and helping older skin behave in a younger way. It is grounded in science and is proven to work – use a vitamin C plus sunscreen by day and a vitamin A (Retinoids) by night. That’s it.

if you do that, expect to see a dramatic improvement in the way your skin looks within a few weeks – and this continues resulting in smoother, brighter, firmer skin with increased tone and that all elusive luminosity.

With these products, slow and steady wins the race. Go too strong or too fast and it may be too much for your skin to handle, so melt can guide you on the correct use and entry level for your skin type and age, and advise when to step up to the next level for continued improvement.

Prices from £29. Loyalty scheme with purchase. n

M E E T T H E E X P E RTS I N V I TA M I N A

For a more in-depth telephone consultation, or to book an appointment to discuss this in person, please call 01200 443377

If it’s so simple, then the question is, ‘Why aren’t other companies offering this?’

The answer, is vitamin C and Retinoids are notoriously difficult to stabilise and so cease to be effective at best – and can be irritating at worst. Medik8 has developed and patented ways to preserve the power of these ingredients so that your skin enjoys optimum results without irritation.

If you follow their simple advice, they believe you can look 40 when you’re 50.

As with all these things, a healthy dose of realistic expectation is necessary, as is a willingness to invest five minutes twice a day to deliver these formulations. But

We understand the exceptional importance of vitamin A to skin. This powerful molecule family helps to combat fine lines and wrinkles while promoting a brighter, more even-toned complexion. Discover more today.

Meet the experts in vitamin a (A1 Poster).indd 1

MED806

THE PROBLEM Good skin health rarely happens by chance.

No matter how genetically lucky we may be, there comes a time when our skin just doesn’t feel, or look, how we want it to.

Advancing years, too many holidays chasing the sun and the onset of the perimenopause, all take their toll. Lines and wrinkles become much more pronounced, tone and elasticity decrease, pigmentation increases and that all elusive luminosity becomes, well… elusive!

WHAT WORKS Our own challenges with the above, led us to look at what REALLY works to make skin look healthier and younger. We quickly realised that injectables weren’t for us. They may help with fine lines and wrinkles, but they don’t improve the health of the skin or make it glow – and they can create an unnatural look.

So our first step was to work from the inside out and we introduced Rejuvenate – the award winning collagen drink – to our skincare portfolio. Using marine collagen, it stimulates our own collagen production to replace what we are losing with age.

THE SCIENCE Our next step was to find a skincare brand that went far beyond pretty lotions and potions, where most of your money is taken up by the marketing and packaging. We were looking for serious science and clinically proven ingredients that challenged the skin to become fitter and healthier. Which is how we came to stock Medik8.

WHY MEDIK8 In 2009 Medik8 invented the CSA Philosophy, a method which is becoming widely accepted

Melt Backridge Farm, Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 themeltco.com

18/07/2018 13:22

/meltcandles themeltco @meltcandles

RVBA Small Business Award 2018 Independent Retailer 2017 Artisan Business 2017

MAKE 2021 YOUR YEAR FOR A MORE YOUTHFUL YOU EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd founder and director Emma Pearce takes us through the most transformative and non-invasive treatments for antiageing results, youthful skin and self confidence in 2021 “I have been achieving absolutely amazing results with both PlasmaPen and Hyapen,” says Emma. “They are my go-to treatments for clients wanting to turn back the clock. They

are both non-invasive and they work so well in combination.

These really are the treatments to kick-start your new year and will undoubtedly provide you with incredible anti-ageing

E

mma Pearce of EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd specialises in rediscovering clients’ youthful looks with non-invasive, scientifically proven technology.

As an aesthetic skin specialist with the most advanced training and experience, Emma turns to two of her favourite treatments, the hugely popular PlasmaPen and the new revolution in noninvasive lip and mouth region fillers, HyapenTM.

At 71 my lips had thinned and my mouth area was very lined. This really affected my confidence. I read EMA’s article and liked the fact that PlasmaPen and Hyapen are both non-invasive treatments as I didn’t want injectable treatments or want to resort to surgery.

With confidence and trust in Emma I went ahead and had PlasmaPen first, then a few weeks later Hyapen. I’m delighted with the results, they definitely met and exceeded my expectations. Thank-you Emma for all your efforts and professionalism, all my friends are coming to you soon!

Annie P.

results, youthful skin and selfconfidence – it is a programme to regain your youthful looks safely, effectively and ensuring you still look like you.”

PlasmaPen

Emma explains: “PlasmaPen is fantastic for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the lips, crow’s feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids and chest lines. If you are bothered by any of these issues and want a non-invasive solution that provides incredible and longlasting results this is the perfect treatment for you.

“I’ve had 100 per cent satisfaction from my clients after PlasmaPen treatments, they have all been thrilled with their results – it’s been truly life-changing.

It is so important to go to an experienced skin specialist as

health&beauty

After reading about Hyapen I was pleasantly surprised there’s a non-invasive alternative to injectable fillers. I’ve had fillers previously but it’s just too painful to endure again. I was sceptical but after speaking with Emma I thought I’d give it a go.

Absolutely brilliant treatment and results! It wasn’t painful at all and the results are much more natural – just perfect. Thank you Emma, I’ll be back soon.

Susan S.

I know exactly how to use these technologies to ensure you get the results you have been searching for.”

Hyapen

Emma explains: “Hyapen is amazing for achieving naturallooking fuller lips and eliminating smile lines and marionette lines.

I’m delighted there is finally a non-invasive and natural-looking lip filler I can offer my clients, especially those scared of needles.

“Hyapen is the ideal non-surgical volumiser for lips and the mouth

region. It gently introduces hyaluronic acid fillers into the skin without a needle. It’s so effective and natural because hyaluronic acid is the most hydrating substance found naturally in our bodies, providing the moisture levels required for youthful hydration and texture.

“The results are remarkable, instant and give a much more natural appearance than injectable fillers. There’s no numbing required or downtime. This treatment restores a beautiful natural plumpness to your lips and mouth area.” n

SPECIAL NEW YEAR OFFERS! Hyapen Lip fillers and mouth region fillers starting from £200.

Emma is offering Live readers 10% off until 31st January!

PlasmaPen treatments starting from £250 per area.

Emma is offering Live readers £175 off the price of each area until 31st January!

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

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TWO FREE ELYSION TREATMENTS! Buy six Elysion laser hair removal treatments and get two extra FREE! Offer applies for a limited period only

BEAUTY BOOST As we go into a new year, it’s time to reflect on how we can improve and refresh our appearance as well as boost our energy levels.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

A

s we get set for 2021, two new super-effective treatments have been introduced by experienced beauty therapist Angela Kay. With more than two decades in the industry, Angela has forged a reputation for introducing revolutionary new products and procedures including Elysion – a groundbreaking, laser hair removal system, along with Microblading and Semi-Permanent Make-up. Microblading creates natural, fine hair-like strokes to enhance and correct thinning brows and Semi-Permanent Makeup can subtly enhance lips by giving you back your natural lip colour and the edge to your lips.

The new year sees Angela introducing energising Vitamin B12 injections as well as very natural looking, wrinkle-smoothing dermal fillers.

Vitamin B12

You can give your body a natural energy boost with a Vitamin B12 injections and end your reliance on stimulants such as coffee and energy drinks. Whether you are looking to supplement your diet or manage your B12 deficiency, this injection can help. It gives a natural kick-start to your energy levels as well as strengthening your immune system letting you live your life beyond boundaries.

It can also help sleep regulation, mood and

appetite – aiding most weight loss programmes.

A boost of energy that really lasts!

Dermal fillers

As we age the amount of hyaluronic acid in our skin depletes causing fine lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid which is injected into fine lines and deeper wrinkles to plump the skin promoting a smoother, refreshed and youthful complexion.

Dermal fillers can also be used for lines around the mouth and to enhance lips that are thinning with age by making them fuller.

Angela explains: “It is well known that lips thin with age but with dermal fillers, we can treat this, giving subtly fuller lips for the more mature lady.”

5* rating on Google, Trip Advisor & Facebook Top-rated salon on Treatwell

MICROBLADING SPECIAL OFFER: £220 saving £30 Offer available for a limited period only

Dermal fillers are not permanent and they are perfectly harmless.

Fully qualified and insured, Angela is able to provide these new treatments at her Warner Street salon in Accrington as well as at her beautifully refurbished salon at Brockhall Village in the Ribble Valley.

Before any treatment Angela conducts a full consultation, advising on what treatment is most suitable, analysing what will help make you look and feel refreshed and more youthful. n

BOOK THRE E VITAMIN B12 INJECTIO NS & RECEIV E ONE EXTRA FREE!

Angela Kay’s 46 Warner Street, Accrington BB5 1HN and The Drive, Brockhall Village BB6 8BJ 07813 195888 VANILLA292@hotmail.com angelakays.co.uk aklaserhairremoval.com akbrows.com

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health&beauty

BRINGING COSMETIC SURGERY TO CLITHEROE As we go into the New Year many people will be thinking about how they can improve their appearance and wellbeing

H FOR SUCH FINE WORK AROUND THE EYES, YOU MUST CHOOSE A SPECIALIST CONSULTANT OCULOPLASTIC SURGEON

ave you spent the past few months looking at yourself on Zoom calls, or in the mirror, and thought, ‘I really hate my eyes. I wish I could sort out those saggy upper eyelids’?

RejuvaMed in Clitheroe now has the solution. Mr Vikesh Patel, consultant oculoplastic surgeon at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, is bringing his private practice to the clinic at prices much lower than at larger private clinics.

Non-surgical solutions for loose skin on the upper eyelid

are almost always ineffective and can be dangerous. Many salons now offer plasma pen or fibroblast treatments, which can cause burns and scarring.

The most effective way to treat the upper eyelids is with surgery. The good news is that this is quick, simple and is carried out under a local anaesthetic, giving permanent results.

If you are considering eyelid surgery, please don’t choose a plastic surgeon who is more used to undertaking breast augmentation or tummy tucks. For such fine work

around the eyes, you must choose a specialist consultant oculoplastic surgeon.

Mr Patel is offering a consultation at an introductory price of £100 (saving £50) in January.

The cost of surgery (upper blepharoplasty) is just £2695 (compare this to £3980 at a Manchester clinic). 0% finance is available (subject to status).

For more information, or to book a consultation with Mr Patel, please call 01200 538668

SHAPE UP FOR 2021 WITH OUR MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES Get yourself back into shape for those summer holidays in 2021 that we’ve all been waiting for!

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£200 PRICE REDUCTION ON THE ELIPSE GASTRIC BALLOON IN JANUARY

ockdowns and Christmas bring an unwelcome increase in weight for many. Rejuvamed’s specialist medical weight loss centre offers effective weight loss solutions.

The Elipse gastric balloon is the only weight loss balloon which can be placed in the stomach without an anaesthetic or endoscopy. Typical weight loss is 12-15 per cent of body weight over the six-month programme, in which you have intensive support from a dietician, and technology such as smart scales that link to an app on your phone to track progress.

A consultation with medical director Dr Grant McKeating

(pictured left with the inflated Elipse gastric balloon) is required to discuss medical weight loss options, which also include daily or weekly prescription medication which suppresses appetite and assists with effective weight loss.

Once you’re on the way to losing that weight then you can think about body sculpting with RejuvaMed’s medical grade non-invasive 3D Lipo Ultimate Pro system, which helps shift stubborn pockets of fat, and tightens loose skin, all without surgery.

For January, RejuvaMed has an amazing offer worth hundreds of pounds on courses of 3D Lipo treatments, ask for more details

Call 01200 538668 to book a consultation with Dr Grant or one of our aestheticians

RejuvaMed Skin Clinic & Vein Centre Holmes Cottage Woone Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668 rejuvamed.co.uk

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Sarah Varley speaks to Phil Moss BSc (Hons) MA at PLM Health & Fitness in Whalley about the importance of looking after yourself

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very element of PLM Health & Fitness has been carefully considered to provide the right atmosphere to help you feel welcome, motivated and get the very best out of the time you invest. From the lighting and luxurious changing rooms to the cutting-edge Technogym equipment, everything is geared towards helping

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF members live a better life by becoming healthier and fitter with the most advanced technology available.

“Over the past year people have been reassessing their priorities and realising what we have been saying all along – that they need to look after themselves,” says PLM Health & Fitness owner Phil Moss.

“We are your first line of defence in health and we are here to help you look after what’s on the inside, not just what you see in the mirror.

best results from your workouts every time, and 24/7 access means there are no barriers to regularly fitting in this vital time to look after yourself, even with the busiest lives.”

With darkness now falling before we have even finished work in the evenings, the gym is even more important as a safe space to keep up exercise for health and wellbeing. At PLM Health and Fitness you have the most advanced technology any time and a supportive, knowledgeable and

WHAT PLM MEMBERS SAY:

“Our ethos has always been about supporting you in making those changes so you can lead a healthy lifestyle and feel great. Our membership is an investment in yourself and we provide all the elements to get you long-term results.

“We have invested in the very best, state-of-the-art equipment so you get the

PLM is one of a kind! Very rarely do you find such a clean and well-maintained training facility. Having trained in various gyms for years, the workout environment which Phil has created is fantastic. You can tell that every piece of equipment has been carefully considered with no expense spared, with the sole purpose of offering a facility which enables everyone to meet their fitness goals.

PLM has enabled me to safely return to the gym and with its 24/7 opening hours I am able to weight train during the quieter periods of the day. Also, the attitude which PLM employees and members are taking to hygiene during this difficult time is very reassuring. I cannot recommend this place enough!

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friendly team to help keep you motivated.

“We’re delighted with member feedback on the confidence they feel in coming here,” Phil says. “Our standards have always been extremely high and we have every possible measure in place to ensure members’ safety.” n

Head to the new website at: plmfitness.com for more information and a free three-day pass

MEMBERSHIP FROM £42.50PM NEW YEAR OFFER: THREE MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF TWO ON SHORT TERM MEMBERSHIP Check the website for more details

PLM HEALTH & FITNESS

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PLM Health & Fitness Abbey Works Back King Street Whalley BB7 9SP 01254 781777 info@plmfitness.com plmfitness.com TM

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A NEW BEGINNING

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eacting to changes in the sector during 2020, Cass Preston has decided to move Lusso Hair to her stylish new salon in Old Langho: “The Volume Clinic offers the same high class service clients have always received at Lusso, but in a new bespoke salon,” explains Cass. “We are bringing the luxury of Lusso into a private environment, where we can ensure a very personalised service.”

I WANT TO SAY A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL CLIENTS PAST AND PRESENT FOR ALL THEIR SUPPORT OVER THE YEARS When you step into The Volume Clinic you immediately get a sense of calm and tranquillity.

“We want clients to feel totally at ease when they arrive

Experienced hair stylist Cass Preston is relocating her luxurious Whalley salon Lusso, to The Volume Clinic based in Old Langho. Gail Bailey met with Cass to find out more. Photography: Kirsten Platt and be in a space that allows them to switch off from the outside world and relax – you can even enjoy a glass of prosecco or a gin and tonic,” adds Cass.

Beautifully decorated with stunning features and furniture, this has certainly been achieved.

It is still Lusso – but with even more luxury.

With over 30 years’ experience

in the hairdressing industry Cass has a wealth of knowledge, and holds a degree in colouring, having also previously worked as a trainer for a renowned colour specialist company.

“I am very passionate about the hairdressing sector and the impact our hair can have on our overall confidence and wellbeing. By moving Lusso it will give me much more flexibility to meet individual client needs, with more options for evening and weekend appointments,” Cass says.

This time of year, hair can feel a little dry and now is the time to give it, and you, some TLC and nourish it into peak condition. The bespoke service at The Volume Clinic includes a

NEW YEAR GIFTS FROM THE VOLUME CLINIC

£10 OFF

WHEN YOU SPEND £30 OR MORE DURING JANUARY range of first-class products to suit all specific hair types.

One of those, Alterna Caviar, is an innovative, haircare and styling product, formulated with pure and effective ingredients and without parabens and other harsh chemicals.

“We will also continue to use the amazing Olaplex range to restore damaged and compromised hair along with Nioxin specialist products, formulated to treat a wide variety of thinning and hair loss problems, and to achieve fuller and thicker looking hair.”

Recognising that hair loss can be for a myriad of reasons The Volume Clinic also has a wide selection of wigs that are produced from either human hair or synthetic material. Cass works with a fantastic company, ‘My New Hair’, and assesses individual style, image and colour before ordering a selection of wigs from suppliers in the UK and Europe. Clients are then

able to spend time selecting the one they are most happy with in the privacy of the salon.

If you would like to experience a new luxurious salon, or to embrace a new hair style and colour for the New Year, Cass is the perfect person to give advice and guidance and to create a fresh new look. Lots of us have let our hair grow longer during lockdown, so now is the ideal opportunity to experiment – in the care of an expert pair of hands. There are some fabulous offers available to launch Lusso in its new location at The Volume Clinic – throughout January you can enjoy £10 off when you spend £30 or more, or there is 50 per cent off a colour with a full price cut and finish and in February why not take advantage of £15 off a colour cut and finish.

(If in the event of a further lockdown in January these offers will be extended.)

“I want to say a huge thank you to all clients past and present for their support over the years. Please come and see us in our new premises, and let’s hope 2021 is a happy and healthy year for us all.” n For more information, appointments or to make an enquiry contact Cass on 01254 823333 cass@lussohair.co.uk

The Volume Clinic 2 Eden Gardens Brockhall Village Old Langho BB6 8HW 01254 823333

Terms & Conditions: Valid Monday – Friday Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or retail products.

Valid January 2021

50% OFF COLOUR WITH A FULL PRICE CUT & FINISH DURING JANUARY Terms & Conditions: Valid Monday – Friday Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or retail products.

Valid January 2021

£15 OFF COLOUR

CUT & FINISH DURING FEBRUARY

Terms & Conditions: Valid Monday – Friday Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or retail products.

Valid February 2021

In the event of a further lockdown all offers will be extended by 30 days from reopening.

2 Eden Gardens Brockhall Village Old langho BB6 8HW 01254 823 333

WALKING IN BOWLAND: BRENNAND AND WHIN FELL Andrew Stachulski takes us on a bracing New Year circular from Dunsop Bridge that features a challenging hill climb with some breathtaking views over the countryside.

Photography: Mark and Anne Harrison

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he village of Dunsop Bridge, very much in the heart of the Forest of Bowland, also lays claim to be the nearest settlement to the geographical centre of the kingdom. A display on the old ‘phone box in the village explains this – the actual point in question is Whitendale Hanging Stones, about four miles due north. Many would also regard Dunsop as one of the kingdom’s best centres for walkers – from here, excellent walks of varying lengths spread in all directions. I have already enjoyed one of these, taking in Hareden, Mellor Knoll and the Whitemore forests.

This walk introduces you to the Brennand

Valley, one of Bowland’s beautiful hidden valleys, and features a steep but truly rewarding climb of Whin Fell.

From the bridge over the River Dunsop by the village shop and café, follow the stream to the north. There is additional parking space here, useful at busy times.

Beyond the cottages upstream, cross the footbridge and turn right. Pass easily up the access road, shortly passing the interesting Bishops’ Houses on the left. The fine valley narrows, with steep fells on either side.

After passing the waterworks buildings, then climbing away from the river, the way divides. Follow the track to the left, entering the lovely, secluded Brennand Valley.

After reaching the main Brennand farm, gird your loins! The ascent from Brennand to the shoulder of Whin Fell is one of the steepest of all Bowland paths and you should take account of the weather. The track is sketchy at first, but beyond a crossing wall with a gate you join a clear, steep diagonal path climbing the upper slopes. Take a welcome breather when you reach the shoulder, and enjoy a superb view taking in the valley below, White Hill, Ward’s Stone and other fells, including Pendle to the south east – truly one of Bowland’s finest.

The going ahead is usually quite heavy.

When you reach a fence with a gate, you have the option of turning up the fence to the right and reaching Whin Fell summit, another splendid viewpoint. Our main route continues over rough ground, soon dipping towards a wall and gate. Pass through and negotiate more open fell, wet in places, on a sketchy path.You steadily lose height and converge to a wall on the

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left, with an afforested area on the right.

Eventually you reach the ruins of the old Trough House by a pleasant little copse and stream.

Easier going now. A clear track guides you downhill with views of the steep, narrow section of the Trough of Bowland on your right. Soon you reach the Trough Road by an old barn, another good stopping point. Proceed downhill (left) through the delightful surrounds of Losterdale, surrounded again by steep fells. In winter this can be a remarkably quiet stretch of road. Before reaching Langden intake,

you pass the attractive buildings of Sykes Farm, recorded by Wainwright in his ‘Bowland Sketchbook’.

At Langden, where an access road joins from the right through an attractive treelined avenue, you have a decision to make.

You may simply keep to the road, with Dunsop Bridge about two miles away, but it is pleasanter to follow a permissive path running on the south side of the brook.

Join this via the access road, cross a bridge and negotiate some boggy ground initially.

Soon a clear, firm track develops, follow it downstream, and look out for a fine variety

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of bird life by the stream. Further on, go briefly right and pass through a gate onto the Hareden access road, then rejoin the Trough road ahead over a bridge and follow it to the right. Another alternative path appears after a cattle grid ahead, proceeding through fields on the left, but by now you may be glad to keep it simple.

Before you approach Dunsop Bridge, with very pleasant views into the Hodder Valley opening up, you pass the local Roman Catholic church in a delightfully peaceful setting. Note the old-fashioned spelling, St Hugh Bert (Hubert), used on the gate. Very soon the buildings of Dunsop appear – the village hall, passed on your left, will hopefully soon be resuming its role offering good homemade teas on Sundays between Easter and the end of August. Beyond this, turn left at the junction ahead, noting the ancient signpost adjacent to the modern road sign. In a few hundred yards you will be back in Dunsop Bridge, with that fine arched bridge, the well-fed ducks. You will have plenty of memories from the walk, especially the ever-changing kaleidoscope of superb views. n

Andrew Stachulski along with Helen Shaw are the authors of The Forest of Bowland published by Merlin Unwin

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This is a great country cycle ride through some pretty Ribble Valley villages as well as some challenging ascents and exhilarating descents!

CLITHEROE ROAD LOOP THROUGH CHIPPING AND SLAIDBURN Route:

28.47miles / 45.82km

Elevation: 844m / 2769ft Difficulty: 3.5/5 strava.com/routes/ 2770990960513366386

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

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eing blessed with such great roads on our doorstep, the team at Ribble Cycles simply love to explore them. We also think that we have some of the best training ground for views, great climbs and stunning descents in the UK. So, to celebrate the forthcoming announcement of Ribble Cycles’ new flagship showroom, which is set to open in Clitheroe, here is a great route to brush off any cobwebs and put those bikes to good use.

Starting in the centre of Clitheroe, the route begins by heading out on Edisford Road/B6243. Cross the River Ribble and take the right turn after the Edison Bridge pub. Turn left when you see the

signpost for Chipping, and this leads to the first climb of the day.

Bailey Bank is a 3km climb – starting off at around 10 per cent gradient, but thankfully levelling out towards the top. Follow the road all the way until you reach Chipping.

As you enter Chipping, take a right turn at the war memorial which is signposted for the Bowland Wild Boar Park. As you head up onto the country roads there are some incredible views,

especially on a clear day.

Heading along Little Bowland Road you will eventually turn left and ride adjacent to the River Hodder until you cross it at Dunsop Bridge.

Here, Puddleducks tearooms offers a perfect refreshment stop.

Follow the road as it heads towards Newton, then it’s time to get into the easy gears for the rest of the day’s climbing.

Riding along the B6478 you will reach Slaidburn, continue past

the War Memorial and once over the river the road has a switch back that climbs out of Slaidburn.

Take the first right (signposted Clitheroe) to head back towards Clitheroe. There is around 4km of steady climbing on the road leading to a cracking descent.

The relief is short lived as it is followed by the last climb of the day – but only a short one of around 1.7km.

After all that hard work, you can now enjoy the descent straight back into Clitheroe – and get yourself a well-earned brew and a slice of cake. n

ribblecycles.co.uk

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Spend quality time with the family.

Instead of all watching TV, get out a board game you can all play together.

Have a pamper. Buy a face mask, run a warm bath, light candles the paint your toes.

Try and do one thing a month you haven’t done for a while. Go to the cinema, have a round of golf or contact a friend you haven’t spoken to recently.

Volunteer. There are plenty of organisations that need extra help at the

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF At the minute, we could all do with a little TLC, but some of us find it hard to switch off.

So, we’ve put together a few self-care tips, to help you practise a healthy body and healthy mind, writes Tracy Hargreaves

Instead of scrolling through social media, read a good book. Ask friends for recommendations or even set up a local book club over zoom where you can share your thoughts on the latest novels.

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elf-care isn’t always about treating yourself or spending a fortune at the shops, it’s the little things that count.

Making sure you finish work on time is an important one. Especially at the moment with a lot of us working from home, it can be hard not to check that email when it comes in after hours. Try and set up your computer in a separate room in the house so you can close the door at the end of the day and switch your PC and phone off. Emails will still be there in the morning.

PUTTING YOUR THOUGHTS ONTO PAPER CAN BE VERY THERAPEUTIC AND HELPS TO CLEAR THE MIND Write a daily or weekly reflection journey of what makes you happy and what doesn’t.

Putting your thoughts onto paper can be very therapeutic and helps to clear the mind.

Go for a walk in nature. Just a 20minute walk outside helps with your vitamin D intake and can also lower your blood pressure.

Have a declutter, whether this is old clothes you don’t wear any longer or just items around the house you no longer use, less is more. Sort into piles for charity, rubbish and selling.

moment. Giving something back will not only help others but you will also feel better for it.

Try and do at least one thing for yourself a week. Write a six-month plan to make sure you stick to it. However also be aware of any barriers that might get in the way of you doing something.

If you can, have a buddy who can do their own self-care plan at the same time, so you can incentivise each other and keep you both motivated.

Never feel guilty for doing something for yourself. We all need a little me time. n

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streamlining to weather the storm. What was positive to see though was the way businesses innovated and came up with new ideas to continue trading safely whilst restrictions were in place – from new outdoor seating and cook at home restaurant boxes to contactless delivery and online events.

Going forward, these businesses may wish to permanently change the way in which they operate in order to futureproof their operations. To do this, they will need to ensure their terms and conditions and other commercial contracts reflect this.

PROPERTY

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL… As the bells ring out on a year no-one will forget in a hurry, the team at Farleys look to 2021 with some hope and optimism – a fresh start

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he new year not only offers a chance to get back to some sort of normality as the year progresses, but also a chance to refocus on what is important to us.

FAMILY

2020 was no doubt a challenging year, and the most challenging part for many of us was being unable to visit family members for much of the year. Many parents were away from grown up children and grandparents were advised to shield.

Now we are tentatively taking the steps to start socialising again, you may wish to look at how your family are provided for when you are no longer around. A new year is the ideal time to create or update a will and ensure your wishes are on record.

On the other hand, the pressures of lockdown and being confined to our homes for such a considerable period was sadly too much for some marriages and relationships. Our family law team were inundated with enquiries from couples seeking to divorce. While initially a difficult decision to make, a divorce or separation offers the opportunity to move forward positively.

BUSINESS

It’s no secret that businesses have struggled in the last nine months. Some took the difficult decision to close during the pandemic, while others looked at restructuring and

Legal expertise with a down to earth approach For you, your family, and your business Our award-winning services include: - Corporate and Commercial Law - Criminal Defence - Conveyancing - Debt Advice

Despite the initial closure of the property market during the first lockdown, this industry is one area that has experienced a substantial boom in recent months due to the temporary abolition of stamp duty and changing trends in property demands.

Home owners took the opportunity to relocate out of the cities or to property with more outdoor space as they were no longer required to work from offices. We expect this to continue to be the case for some months yet as the stamp duty holiday remains in place.

Whatever your plans for the year ahead, be sure to seek professional advice for any big decisions made around you, your family and your business. n

- Divorce & Family Matters - Employment Law - Personal Injury Claims - Wills, Trusts & Probate 01254 368040 www.farleys.com

For legal advice on any of the matters mentioned above, Farleys are here to help Call 01254 368040 or visit: farleys.com for more information

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IN THE SADDLE

and Charlotte Kenyon, which was held at Myerscough College. Members were challenged riding technical lines and related distances, with the younger members linking fences together and maintaining a forward rhythm. The following evening, some flatwork training with Gilly Hinnigan at Northcote Stud was well attended by senior members, who were taught to ride an ‘advanced corner’ using lateral movements, while the rain hammered down on the indoor school. It felt like winter was well and truly upon us! Finally, a working rally for all abilities was held at Myerscough College and consisted of both flatwork and jumping with instructors Jo Baxter and Pam Prickett. On this occasion, there was an emphasis on some much-needed ridden assessments and feedback to sharpen up the riders’ skills, giving members some advice on areas which need improvement in preparation for their forthcoming Pony Club Efficiency Tests.

Chipping Pony Club seized every opportunity to organise rallies, training and attend competitions outside of the lockdown window, all whilst complying with government guidelines, writes Paula Kopydlowski.

Photography: Martha Lily Photography and Diane Marsden

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hankfully, children’s sport has been encouraged to continue and Chipping Pony Club members enjoyed a number of local events including a spectacular fancy dress arena eventing and show jumping competition.

Before the second lockdown members from Chipping attended the Pony Club Arena Eventing Preliminary Rounds Qualifier at Kelsall Hill in Cheshire, in an attempt to qualify for the Spring Festival Semi-Finals in March 2021.

Arena eventing consists of a series of cross country type fences, but placed in

an all-weather arena as an activity that can be enjoyed during the winter months.

The fences are solid, generally rustic to replicate what you might find naturally occurring in the countryside and include challenges such as ditches, steps, banks and water. Kelsall Hill’s facilities are ideal for this type of event, with a split level arena, a permanent water complex, a ramp with steps and some ditches.

Members from Chipping took on clubs from areas four and five (the North West) across three classes. In the 80cm, members were delighted for Kaitlin and her pony Sebastian who won, with Erin riding Millie taking third and Amy and her horse Honey coming fifth. In the 90cm, Sarah and her horse Ellie were second, Amy and Honey were third, Megan with Fluky came fourth and Erin and Millie were fifth. Finally, in the 100cm Megan and Fluky won! The first 10 places were qualifying, meaning all are through to the semi-finals in March. An excellent day for Chipping!

During the half term holidays back in October, Chipping ran some show jump training with instructors Jeanette Powell

Chipping and Haydock branches of the Pony Club joined forces over lockdown to organise the Area 4 Arena Eventing Preliminary Rounds at Kelsall Hill. There were plenty of entries and Chipping members were excited about the opportunity to run their first Arena Event.

The club then busied themselves planning their fancy dress outfits for the celebratory Christmas rally, with friends wishing good tidings, from an acceptable social distance and within limited group numbers. n

If you are interested in joining, please contact Chipping’s District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 07739 687972 or email: chipping@pcuk.org

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UP & RUNNING! Racehorse owners from Highclere’s northern syndicate are delighted that spectators are now allowed back on the racecourses, writes Jason Fildes

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t’s an exciting time for racing with crowds recently being allowed back on racecourses for the first time since March. Racing is well placed to be at the forefront of welcoming spectators in a safe environment as people are able to spread out over a large area and mostly can be outside.

It bodes well for 2021 with high hopes that by the time we get to the height of the summer flat racing season, we will be able to enjoy seeing our horses run at the big northern race meetings with full crowds present. It should be great fun as I’m sure everyone will be determined to enjoy themselves and the atmosphere will be lively!

It’s going to be an excellent year to have a share in a horse and we’ve had all kinds of enquiries from interested people who have watched racing on TV during lockdown and want to get involved.

We are in the process of buying a yearling to be trained by Karl Burke in Middleham.

Most flat trainers attend the Yearling Sales that take place at this time of year.

had a 50 per cent strike rate in 2020.

One of his best offspring is Living in the Past, trained by Karl to win the Group 2 Lowther Stakes at York’s Ebor meeting as well as speedster Rumbleinthejungle who won the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.

Image taken pre Covid-19

WE’RE THINKING OF HAVING EIGHT SHARES AT £5K EACH TO INCLUDE PURCHASE AND ALL THE FIRST YEAR’S TRAINING AND RACING COSTS We asked Karl to keep an eye out for a suitable horse for us – one that he feels has plenty of potential on breeding, represents good value and who should be ready to run as a two-year-old early in the summer.

He has just contacted us about this absolutely gorgeous colt, son of respected sire Bungleinthejungle whose two-year-olds

We expect this colt to be precocious – and fast. We’re thinking of having eight shares at £5k each to include purchase and all the first year’s training and racing costs.

Let’s hope he’s very good! Whatever happens. we’re going to make sure it’ll be fun! n

Highclere – Jason Fildes 01200 444622 07721 311778 jason@highclere.co.uk highclereracing.co.uk

KEN VAREYS ON THE MOVE...

After more than 60 years in the same premises situated in the marvellous old market town of Clitheroe, KEN VAREYS will be relocating to new larger premises on the main high street at

2 MARKET PLACE, CLITHEROE

(previously Yorkshire Bank)

on 21st January 2021

We look forward to welcoming you to our new home VAREYS TOWN AND COUNTRY 2 MARKET PLACE, CLITHEROE T: 01200 423267 • www.kenvarey.co.uk • E: info@kenvarey.co.uk

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your former spouse attempting to make a financial claim against you in the future.

There are some instances when it is not possible to reach agreement and in those circumstances, you can ask the court to determine those issues. In court proceedings we will represent you and your best interests robustly and with vigour. The court can help to decide how the finances should be separated, taking into account a wide range of factors including your income, resources and earning capacity and balancing these against your respective needs.

DIVORCE AND YOUR FINANCES The knowledgeable, specialist and supportive Family Law team at Marsden Rawsthorn Solicitors explain their sympathetic and understanding approach to helping you navigate the financial implications of divorce. Photography: Roger Moore

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eparating from your spouse is one of the biggest and most difficult decisions you will ever have to make. When faced with dealing with a significant life change and the worry and uncertainty that can bring, it is important you obtain legal advice as soon as possible to assist you in preparing for divorce.

Receiving expert advice in the early stages of your separation may prove invaluable in giving you confidence to approach the practical considerations associated with your separation such as addressing the care arrangements for your children and obtaining financial security in the immediate and longer term.

Consideration will need to be given regarding how to separate your finances, including deciding how to separate property, pensions, savings and investments. This can be resolved in a number of ways and we would recommend mediation as a process for negotiation to assist you and your spouse in reaching decisions about any of the issues arising from your separation.

Mediation provides an opportunity to meet together with a trained and impartial mediator who is legally trained and will assist to reduce conflict in a confidential and informal setting.

Alternatively, we would suggest voluntary financial disclosure, which involves inviting you and your spouse to provide documents to us with a view to identifying the value of your assets and negotiating a settlement.

If an agreement is reached, the next step would be a financial order, giving you peace of mind that matters are resolved and protection against the possibility of

RECEIVING EXPERT ADVICE IN THE EARLY STAGES OF YOUR SEPARATION MAY PROVE INVALUABLE It is advisable to seek legal advice at an early stage as this can be an emotionally stressful time, when you are faced with making decisions that could have an impact on your future financial situation and security.

At Marsden Rawsthorn we receive regular feedback from clients for our sympathetic, friendly approach, our understanding of the issues involved and the positive results we gain for our clients. We know what a difficult time this is for you and will guide and support you through it. We’ll be on your side.

Get in touch with one of our team of lawyers on 0800 294 4410 or email info@mardsenrawsthorn.com to arrange a free confidential appointment, either at one of our clinics or via a telephone consultation or virtual meeting at a time to suit you.

We provide quality, experienced advice along with clarity of costs from the outset by way of a bespoke quotation, tailored to meet your budget. n Pictured: The Family Team – Amanda Long, Lauren Townson and Lyndsey Kiley (from L-R in the top left image)

Marsden Rawsthorn Solicitors Ltd Faraday Court, Faraday Drive Fulwood, Preston PR2 9NB Westmarch House 42 Eaton Avenue, Buckshaw Village Chorley PR7 7NA 0800 294 4410 – QUOTE REF: LIVE marsdenrawsthorn.com

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JETTING OFF TO KRAKOW… David Cookson of Travel Circle, Longridge, embarks on a trip to Krakow, where he discovers a beautiful, friendly city with quaint cobbled streets in the Old Town and great-value cafes and restaurants lining the main square

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here should I head on my next adventure? Where will satisfy my wanderlust?

These are the questions I’m always asking myself. I am lucky to travel to some absolutely amazing destinations and Krakow was next on my list.

After a short two-hour flight from Manchester I arrived into Krakow’s modern and well organised airport where I was met by my friendly driver Dawid for the 20-minute drive to the city and my home for the next three nights. I chose the Hotel Puro Kazimierz which is an ultra-modern 4* hotel situated in the Jewish Quarter.

After dropping my bags in my room I headed down to the hotel’s wonderful restaurant where I enjoyed a delicious three-course meal. When I asked for the bill I was shocked at the £18 charge, which included drinks. This was definitely a clue to how affordable this trip was going to be!

After a great night’s sleep I headed out for my compulsory sunrise run along the stunning river, before heading back to the hotel for breakfast in the hotel’s own in-house bakery. Feeling well fuelled I headed into Krakow Old Town. After a 15-minute stroll from my hotel I reached the Rynek Glowny, which is the main

square and is absolutely breath-taking. The square is lined with cafes and restaurants all of which offer outdoor dining and, after experiencing a number of them over the weekend, I can personally confirm they all offered high quality food and service at ridiculously low prices. I spent the afternoon simply wandering the historical cobbled streets and visited Wawel Castle, where you can still find a fire-breathing dragon!

The next day started early as I had booked an excursion to the Auschwitz and Birkenau Camps. The trip takes approximately seven hours including the drive to and from the camps. I found the visit fascinating, humbling and, I’m not ashamed to say, quite an upsetting experience but definitely one that everyone should do. Another excursion worth doing is the salt mines.

This is a shorter trip and again, can easily be organised before you arrive in Krakow.

My final day started with a visit to the hotel spa before heading back into the Old Town for a final wander and lunch on the square, before heading to the airport for my flight back to the UK. How would I describe Krakow?

I personally found the city fascinating, beautiful, friendly with a surprise around every corner. n

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RELAXING STAYCATION is something to keep everyone entertained.

Start your 2021 on a high with a Mytton Fold also has a golf course attached luxurious staycation in the heart to the hotel and residents are offered discounted rates to play. Whether you are a of the beautiful Ribble Valley

M

ytton Fold is offering dinner, bed and breakfast for two people from January to March, seven days a week! Escape the hustle and bustle and unwind in the luxurious, new Mytton Fold Hotel. The minute you step through the doors, the stress of last year will simply melt away. Be amongst the first to relax in the stunning new bedrooms, experience fine dining in the contemporary restaurant and start the day in the best way with a delicious breakfast prepared with the finest local ingredients.

This unmissable offer includes: • An exquisite fine dining experience in the stylish restaurant. Receive a £40 voucher per couple to spend on a deluxe dinner • An overnight stay in one of the relaxing Classic rooms • A full English breakfast for two Take some time out for you and let the team welcome you to this stunning hotel, where the ultimate Ribble Valley retreat awaits you. Mytton Fold is situated in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its breath-taking countryside, rich heritage and famous landmarks. With an abundance of walks, cycle routes, museums, historic buildings and shops on the doorstep, there

thrill-seeker or simply looking to unwind in the tranquil surroundings, the hotel team will ensure that your stay meets your every need.

Dine in the contemporary settings of the hotel restaurant and let Executive Chef, Liam Cooper and his team delight you with their impressive culinary skills. The dinner menu comprises a mouth-watering selection of dishes, prepared using the best quality, seasonal ingredients that are locally sourced.

SPECIAL OFFER! A special New Year offer – £121 per couple to include an overnight stay in one of Mytton Fold’s Classic rooms, £40 voucher per couple to spend on dinner and a full English breakfast for two.

Offer subject to availability.

To book call 01254 240662 or email: reception@myttonfold.co.uk and quote: “STAYCATION21 LIVE MAG”.

Relax and unwind in one of the newly refurbished Classic bedrooms, where luxury meets comfort. Take time to enjoy the sophisticated rooms which have been expertly designed to offer you the perfect space to stay. Enjoy a tea or coffee whilst taking in the views and pamper yourself with complimentary toiletries and an early night in your deluxe bed.

Complete your stay by enjoying a delicious cooked Mytton Fold breakfast. For guests that would prefer a lighter option, there is a fantastic breakfast menu, which includes homemade granola, fresh fruit salad, creamy porridge and croissants, plus tea, coffee and fruit juices.

So, if you are in need of some ‘you’ time, let Mytton Fold offer you the perfect 2021 escape for £121 per couple. n

Mytton Fold Hotel Whalley Road, Langho BB6 8AB 01254 240662 reception@myttonfold.co.uk myttonfold.co.uk

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HOME TRUTHS

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his time of year brings with it an enduring hope. The news of the vaccine being approved will have brought similar joy along with the hope that we can now look forward to 2021 being a fresh start, without the insane rules and regulations which have kept the vast majority safe but has brought enormous strain.

The dedication of our frontline services, and those who have gone the extra mile to help others have been key and the best thing about 2020 is that it has come to an end.

We will all await further news of the vaccine rollout and how it’s going to allow families and friends to mix again. It will be such a boost to the elderly and vulnerable, who have been shielding and all those who have not been able to give a hug and kiss to their nearest and dearest. It makes me deeply sad to think of those families who are mourning those departed. It has been a cruel time.

I don’t think I will ever again take the simple pleasures of mixing with mates and propping up the bar of my local for granted. I will decide who can come into my home and garden, and I will visit local pubs, hotels and restaurants which have been closed for so long.

I visited a new-start called Tom’s Table off Lowergate in Clitheroe.

No sooner had they opened that we went into lockdown and then Tier 3. Fortunately, Tom like many other establishments, had created an excellent takeaway menu, which was a huge success and I’m looking forward to visiting and sitting down to experience the full monty!

Many businesses in the hospitality sector spent much of lockdown sprucing up premises. It was to this end that the Speaker of the House of Commons and I met with the Prime Minister before Christmas. We told him that Ribble Valley and Chorley had many great establishments and that they had spent enormous amounts of their reserves on making their places safe. The Prime Minister listened intently – I could see him reflecting deeply with a pained expression as we told him how our businesses were being affected.

I could feel the weight of the world on his shoulders and I could tell he was taking it all in.

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans welcomes news of the vaccine approval, he meets Prime Minister Boris Johnson and wishes his constituents a very happy and hopeful New Year

In the run up to the Christmas break on one of my walks into the Commons, I spotted the Speaker’s Christmas tree in New Palace Yard. It shone brightly from top to bottom reminding me once more of the power that light brings in brightening our days and being a source of hope and joy for the forthcoming year. Simple things that we don’t think too deeply about, have such amazing abilities to transform. One such thing is a smile which radiates a sense of pleasure beyond words.

MAY 2021 GIVE YOU MUCH TO SMILE ABOUT AND MAY THE YEAR AHEAD BRING YOU AND YOURS JOY, CHEER AND HOPE So, on that note, may 2021 give you much to smile about and may the year ahead bring you and yours the joy, cheer and hope that has been so lacking. Let 2021 bring much happiness to you all – and thank you once again to all who have helped us to get through 2020.You truly are angels without wings – but angels nonetheless!

A very happy 2021! n

15 Whalley Road (The Old Post Office)

Wilpshire Blackburn BB1 9LQ

01254 658899 www.rightathomeeastlancs.com

Email: eastlancs@rightathomeuk.com

Keeping you safe, Right at Home.

2020 hasn’t been the year any of us expected, but the team at Right at Home (East Lancashire and Ribble Valley) have continued to provide quality care and support in the comfort of clients’ own homes throughout.

Part of the Right at Home UK network, one of the UK’s leading homecare providers, Right at Home’s services include physical assistance, all aspects of personal care, including washing and dressing, medication reminders, meal preparation, shopping, housework, laundry, transport and accompanying clients to appointments or on trips out providing companionship.

Or for a great alternative to moving into a care home, why not consider full-time live-in care? A live-in care package means that one of Right at Home’s professional and trusted CareGivers is there to give your loved one the one-to-one personalised care and companionship they need, day or night. As well as enabling clients to carry on living in comfortable and familiar surroundings, live-in care provides peace of mind for families, especially those who don’t live close by.

Right at Home (East Lancashire and Ribble Valley) currently has an impressive maximum recommendation score of 10 out of 10 on homecare.co.uk (the UK’s leading care review website), based on reviews from clients, their friends and relatives. The company was also rated Good with ‘Outstanding Responsiveness’ at their last CQC inspection.

O U R S E R V I C E S I NC LU DE: • Personal Care • Meal Preparation • Night Care • Dementia Care • 24-Hour Live-In Care • Respite Care • Medication Reminders • Shopping • Companionship • Light Housekeeping

So if you, or a family member, might need any of our services to live happily and independently at home, why not get in touch with our friendly, professional team to find out more?

Complex needs are a speciality, including day and night sits.

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Contact us now for free information and advice

If you go up to the woods today...

You’re in for a big surprise.

Your dream holiday retreat deserves an extra special location and Three Rivers Woodland Park ticks all the boxes.

Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside and the Forest of Bowland AONB, but still only a couple of miles from the hub of Clitheroe, Three Rivers has stunning views and outstanding on park facilities including, swimming pool, two bars, cafe and shop. It is the ideal base to unwind and recharge in the peaceful woodland setting or have your own wilderness adventure.

With great prices on a range of new and pre-owned holiday homes now is the perfect time to discover a hidden gem in the Ribble Valley and your very own, beautiful, family home from home up in the woods.

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A TIME FOR NEW BEGINNINGS The new year heralds new beginnings and that often means separation or divorce for some couples. If that’s the case you need a special family lawyer, advises Adrienne Baker, a solicitor within Forbes’ Family Law team

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he start of any new year is renowned for new beginnings. It gives people purpose, and you will see individuals set out with good intentions to make positive changes in their lives. With the challenges that many faced in 2020, now more than ever, individuals will be looking forward to 2021 and the fresh start a new year can bring.

For some, that fresh start may mean a separation, or getting around to finalising an end to their marriage. Parties are recommended to contact a specialist family lawyer at the earliest opportunity to ensure that they can obtain the right advice to help their individual circumstances and also, to assist parties who are contemplating a separation, I have put together some answers to commonly asked questions: In order to get divorced, do I need to cite reasons for the breakdown of my marriage?

If your separation is less than two years, then at this time you can only issue a divorce petition based upon your spouse’s adultery or unreasonable behaviour. It is hopeful that this year will see the introduction of the ‘no fault’ divorce but it is unlikely to come into force until the end of 2021.

What if no-one is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage?

You would need to wait a period of two years and then with both parties consent, you can issue divorce proceedings.The other alternative is if your spouse has deserted you for a period of two years or more or the separation has been five years or more.

Is the global pandemic causing any issues with the practicalities of getting divorced?

There have been some delays with the divorce courts in issuing new applications, but that time now seems to be reducing.

In addition, it has now become more accessible to issue divorce proceedings online and this often means a more timely conclusion.

My name is not on the family home, does that mean I am not entitled to any of the equity?

If parties are married then whatever asset is in each of their respective names, whether jointly or individually, will be considered in any matrimonial settlement. Parties will be under a duty to provide each other with full and frank disclosure of their financial information to ascertain what is in the ‘matrimonial pot’ before considering any division of assets.

We have reached a financial settlement, what do we do now?

However you have reached a financial settlement whether it was done directly,

through mediation or negotiations between lawyers, it is recommended that within divorce proceedings the agreement is recorded in a Consent Order.

If the Court, consider the agreement to be fair then they will seal the Order making it a legally binding document. If drafted correctly it would mean that neither you or your spouse should be able to bring any further claims for consideration of the matrimonial finances in the future. In most cases the Order can be obtained without the need to attend Court.

What if we are not in a position to get divorced but wish to record our financial settlement?

The Court will only seal a Consent Order if you have obtained your Decree Nisi.

If you wish to record your settlement in a legal document you can do so in a Separation Agreement. A Separation Agreement can accurately record the intentions of both parties upon separation.

It is not a legally binding document but if drafted correctly and both parties have provided financial disclosure and obtained independent legal advice, it can be persuasive to a Court if ever challenged. n

For more information contact Adrienne Baker at: adrienne.baker@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call: 01254 580000

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01772 220 022

Offices in Accrington, Central Lancashire, Leeds, Manchester and Preston.

tbc lifestyle 100 lifestyle

CHARITY F O C U S Live Ribble Valley takes a look at the many and varied charity projects that are taking place in towns and villages across the region If you have any charity news please contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

VOLUNTEER PLEA A plea for volunteers has been issued in a bid to help those in need over the coming winter The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) one of Britain’s largest volunteering charities has joined forces with the NHS to appeal for volunteers to help those in need through the winter.

The call comes on the back of research which finds that more than 4.9 million over 50s, many with health conditions and without family nearby, say they would benefit from volunteer help.

Volunteer roles include: Community Response Volunteers – who provide help by collecting and delivering shopping, medication and other essential supplies.

Community Response Plus Volunteers – whose role is similar to the above but working specifically with individuals with cognitive impairments or significant vulnerabilities. An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Patient Transport Volunteers – who provide vital transport to patients who are medically fit to attend routine medical appointments. This includes taking patients from their home to local medical appointments.

NHS Transport Volunteers – who provide essential support across the different NHS services, helping get vital supplies to sites.

Check In and Chat Volunteers – who provide simple yet vital phone support to individuals who may be at heightened risk of loneliness.

Check In and Chat Plus Volunteers – similar to the previous role but this involves providing regular support to the same individual for 10 weeks (three phone calls a week). An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Volunteers must be over 18, and fit and well with no Covid symptoms.

Those in higher-risk groups will still be able to offer support over the telephone as a Check In and Chat Volunteer.

One volunteer is Mark Woodward who works for Lancashire Fire and Rescue. Working in the fire service, Mark is used to helping out those in need. That’s why when the call up came for NHS Volunteer Responders – Mark was one of the first to apply: “The feeling you get from helping someone who needs it is something you just can’t beat. It’s given me a reason to get out and do something that I know is meaningful which is incredibly rewarding.

“Whenever I can, I place myself ‘on-duty’ to help out with whatever I’m needed for. I had a long chat with a lovely man in his nineties who had sadly lost his wife. I was humbled by the fact that he was able to open up to me and I think we both took comfort in having a friendly conversation while both living alone.”

The Volunteer Responder scheme is expected to run at least until March 2021.

nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk

Local Locallawn lawn entrepreneur entrepreneur talks talkswith withus us about aboutall allthings things robot robotmowing mowing To To maintain anan admirable lawn you need maintain admirable lawn you needtotobe bemowing mowingweekly weeklyat atthe the very least, yetyet often it seems toto just rain very least, often it seems just rainand andrain rainand andthen thenrain rainsome some more every time you have anan opportunity more every time you have opportunitytotomow. mow.

WeWe talktalk to local lawn expert Tyler Stevenson to local lawn expert Tyler Stevensonabout abouthis hisnew newbusiness business AutoMowIt, suppliers and installers ofofrobot AutoMowIt, suppliers and installers robotmowers mowers--the thelatest latestin in lawn care technology. lawn care technology.

Hi Tyler, about your new business!

Hi Tyler, so so telltell us us about your new business!

Hi! Well at my Greenthumb business look Hi! Well at my Greenthumb business wewe look after 7000 lawns across Lancashire, and one after 7000 lawns across Lancashire, and one of the great things about service that of the great things about ourour service is is that lawns grow thick and green - but they keep lawns grow thick and green - but they keep onon growing!

So customers are always asking for growing! So customers are always asking for mowing advice. been following the rise mowing advice.

I’veI’ve been following the rise inin robot mowing, being a bit of a gadget fan, and robot mowing, being a bit of a gadget fan, and decided to invest in it myself to test the best decided to invest in it myself to test the best products on the market. products on the market.

So what did you find?

So what did you find?

After a LOT of research I was drawn to After a LOT of research I was drawn to Ambrogio due to their extensive range, Ambrogio due to their extensive range, impressive capabilities and the fact they have impressive capabilities and the fact they have over 25 years’ experience. The only problem over 25 years’ experience. The only problem was there were no local distributors or wasinstallers there were no local distributors or to turn to. I went from thinking that’s installers to turn to.

I went from thinking that’s frustrating - I can’t believe there’s no one local frustrating can’tto, believe no one local I can buy- Ifrom, hang there’s on a minute instead I can to, hang on a minute insteadand of buy just from, recommending them to customers of just recommending to customers and friends why don’t wethem sell and install them.

So, friends why don’t sell and install them.

So, in October 2019we AutoMowIt installed its first in October 2019(as AutoMowIt installed its him) first robot, Archie the kids have named robot, Archie (as the kids have named him) mower became a member of the family, a demo became a memberofofa the a demo mower and something localfamily, attraction. and something of a local attraction.

AndisisArchie Archieworking workingwell wellfor for you? you?

And It’sawesome, awesome,I Iwent wentfor forthe the Ambrogio Ambrogio *L250i It’s robotmower, mower,this thisparticular particular robot robot can can robot maintainaalawn lawnup upto to5000m2 5000m2 and and can can cope cope maintain withmy mysteep steeplawn, lawn,which which is is good good because because with evenaaride-on ride-onmower mowerstruggles struggles with with that that even incline.The Thebest bestthing, thing,of of course, course, no no more more incline. weekends spent mowing. weekends spent mowing.

Archie at work Archie at work Are there any negatives with robot mowers?

Are there negatives with robot The onlyany downside is robots don’tmowers? stripe your The only downside robots don’t off. stripe your lawn, which can putis some people I like lawn, which cansometimes put some get people off. I like stripes too so my cylinder stripes sometimes getover my to cylinder mowertoo outso and quickly run get stripes mower out and quickly runvery overoften! to get stripes when inclined, which isn’t when inclined, which isn’t very often!

AutoMowIt are experts at supply & install of the latest Robot you& a perfectly AutoMowIt areMowers, expertsgiving at supply install of cut the lawnRobot with zero effort.giving you a perfectly cut latest Mowers, lawn with zero effort.

So Soyou youthink thinkit’s it’smore morethan thanjust justa afad? fad?

The Thedemand demandhas hasbeen beenincredible incrediblesosoI think I think people peopleare areseeing seeingthis thisasasa agreat greatsolution solution --it’s list! it’sone onemore morejob joboff offthe thenever-ending never-ending list!

The just Therobots robotsare areset settotoaatimetable timetablesosothey they just get your geton onand anddo dothe themowing mowingfor foryou. you.Hearing Hearing your neighbour’s neighbour’smower mowerhumming hummingonona aSaturday Saturday is is all allthe themore moretherapeutic therapeuticwhen whenyou youknow know you’re you’remowing mowingyour yourlawn lawnwhilst whilstalso alsoenjoying enjoying breakfast in bed. And some can be monitored breakfast in bed. And some can be monitored and controlled via the Ambrogio app on your and controlled via the Ambrogio app on your smartphone or tablet if you fancy getting really smartphone or tablet if you fancy getting really techie with it. techie with it.

How do we find out more?

How do we find out more?

We can assess your lawn and recommend Weright can assess lawnbrowse and recommend the one, oryour you can the range at the right one, orand yousee canwhat browse the range at ambrogio.co.uk you think is right. ambrogio.co.uk and see what you think is right.

We’re on Facebook with loads of videos and We’re on Facebook loads of videos and advice there too - findwith us at advice there too - find us at www.facebook.com/automowit. www.facebook.com/automowit.

AutoMowIt are happy to offer a free AutoMowIt of areyour happy to virtual offer avia free assessment lawn, assessment of person your lawn, virtual via FaceTime or in to discuss FaceTimeand or in personof tothe discuss suitability features various suitability and features of the various models.

Call 0800 1522123. models. Call 0800 1522123.

- Advice on the right Robot Mower Installation andright setup -- Advice on the Robot Mower Servicing and maintenance -- Installation and setup - Servicing and maintenance

Talk to us today on 0800 15 22 123 Talk us today on 0800 15 22 123 See usto in action at www.facebook.com/automowit

See us in action at www.facebook.com/automowit

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OUT WITH OLD… IN WITH THE NEW Now is the time to make your New Year’s resolutions and with a bit of luck, these tips will help you stick to them!

W

hile this New Year is somewhat different from the previous ones, it doesn’t mean we can’t

enjoy ourselves!

There aren’t any parties but we can create a party atmosphere and use the occasion to Zoom friends and wish them well.

While many of us will be settling down next to the fire to watch Jools Holland joyfully welcome in 2021 with his annual Hootenanny, others will be starting to think about New Year resolutions.

Many people think we make our own luck, and making and sticking to a New Year resolution is a sure fire way to improve your prospects.

Psychology professor Richard Wiseman gives the following tips for boosting willpower and staying motivated: • Make only one resolution. Choosing just one aspect of your health to improve will increase your chance of success.

• Plan your resolution in advance. This will give you time to think about your goal and how to achieve it.

• Don’t repeat last year’s resolution. But if you do pick a different technique to achieve it.

• Keep the resolution specific and write it down.

• Plan a reward for when you achieve your goal. This will give you something to focus on.

Around seven million in the UK make New Year’s resolutions – and the most popular resolution is losing weight. But of those who make resolutions, less than 10 per cent achieve them.

So why do so many of us fail to achieve our goals? Making realistic resolutions is vital – you could resolve to run a marathon but why not pledge to walk or run a mile each day and improve on that.

The same concept applies to weight loss.

Set small weekly goals to develop healthy habits that will ultimately help achieve your long-term target.You could resolve to go to spin class twice a week, eat more fruit and vegetables or make time for breakfast.

These goals are all simple and achievable – building on smaller goals will ensure success and this rule usually applies to most resolutions. n

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an alert along with your location to the alarm receiving call centre. You will be able to talk with the friendly operator over the speakerphone, and they will organise help if required either the emergency services or your preferred emergency contact. It has an amazing two-month battery life before needed to recharge, fall detection sensors, two-way speech and is simple to install - just take it out of the box, place it around your neck for comfort and you will be automatically connected to our 24-hour a day trained monitoring station.

The GO Pendant encourages and supports you to have more independence in your day to day activities, either at home, or when you are out and about. You can be confident knowing that help is at your fingertips. The GO is a wearable device with cellular and GPS technology. When activated it sends

The GO Pendant is the perfect solution for connecting you or your loved ones to assistance anytime. Please go to our website at www.digitalcare247.com for further details or call us today to speak to one of our friendly helpful staff who can provide more details of the new GO Pendant.

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A luxury lodge retreat featuring private hot tubs, fire pits and an exclusive concierge service is set to open in the Ribble Valley this summer. So, get set to relax and unwind

Photography: Kirsten Platt

T

hree years ago, Louise Monk had a vision. She had acquired a property surrounded by beautiful countryside in the heart of the Ribble Valley: “I saw its potential and decided to forge ahead to create a luxurious, woodland retreat where visitors could stay in beautiful lodges and experience every luxury they could imagine through our own in-house concierge service!” explains Louise, whose dream is now well underway.

She is currently working on-site alongside contractors and skilled tradesmen, endeavouring to complete and launch The Everything Retreat by June 2021, when she will welcome her first guests.

The Everything Retreat will feature 12 exclusive cedarwood lodges located in secluded countryside in Mellor. And plans are in the pipeline for an existing property on the site, which will be transformed into a luxurious, six-bedroomed retreat house catering for 14 guests.

The Everything Retreat lodges will provide stunning open plan living with log burners, comfy sofas, a kitchenette, sumptuous

EVERYTHING YOU COULD POSSIBLY WISH FOR… beds and crisp linen, along with full length glass windows with panoramic views overlooking Pendle Hill and the wider Ribble Valley countryside.

Each will be decorated on a different theme: “The interiors of the lodges will each have a different feel to them – but they all represent the ultimate in luxury and style,” says Louise. “We want to take our guests on a journey from the moment they arrive so it’s important that each lodge maintains an individual look.”

While The Everything Retreat site is underway, Louise is planning a concierge service that will include collaborations with local inns and restaurants to deliver breakfast hampers and dinner with champagne

lifestyle

to guests. Louise is working together with Stuart and his head chef at the Spread Eagle at Mellor to create these: “I am really excited to be able to offer this service. Going the extra mile is really important.”

WHEN GUESTS ARRIVE AT THE EVERYTHING RETREAT, THEY SIMPLY PARK-UP AND ENJOY A GOLF BUGGY RIDE THROUGH THE QUIET SECLUSION OF THE COUNTRYSIDE TO THEIR CHOSEN LODGE Also planned is a chauffeur service for those wanting to eat out, an exclusive in-lodge beauty, hairdressing and massage experience and a bespoke event planning service for those choosing to celebrate special events at The Everything Retreat.

When guests arrive at The Everything Retreat, they simply park-up and enjoy a golf

buggy ride through the quiet seclusion of the countryside to their chosen lodge, where they can hunker down in front of the fire or venture out to see the diverse wildlife.

“We have owl nesting boxes and hedgehog boxes – one of the main attractions on site is the wildlife,” says Louise.

Speaking about her plans for the on-site country house, Louise adds: “This will be for guests who want to celebrate in luxurious surroundings, and again they will have our concierge service available to them. If they want a private chef to cook for them, we will organise it. I also envisage that the house could be used for retreat-style getaways.”

The house will feature ‘contemporary THE EVERYTHING RETREAT LAUNCHING JUNE 2021!

BOOKINGS BEING TAKEN FROM MARCH A luxurious woodland retreat featuring every luxury you can imagine!

07816 229617

105

with a traditional twist’ décor and like the lodges at The Everything Retreat, a number of open launch events are planned this year.

THE CONCIERGE SERVICE WILL INCLUDE COLLABORATIONS WITH LOCAL RESTAURANTS TO DELIVER BREAKFAST HAMPERS AND DINNER WITH CHAMPAGNE TO GUESTS “I can’t wait to welcome our first guests!” says Louise, who is creating a welcoming reception area, where guests can enjoy a cappuccino or a drink from the bar area.

The reception will also feature locally made products crafted in the Ribble Valley. n

If any artisans are keen to feature their products at The Everything Retreat, they should contact Louise on 07816 229617

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weddings

A YEAR FOR ROMANCE

I

f you’ve been building up the courage to propose and have decided now the time is right, you’ll want to find the perfect moment to pop the question. After all, it is our loved ones, that have helped see us through the past year of uncertainty.

Before you ask that all important question or create the best surprise scenario, you need to make sure you’re confident on your engagement ring choice.Your partner may have been dropping hints about rings for ages, but it’s all down to you — so here are some useful tips.

The style is vitally important – as a general rule a solitaire is always a classic, or you could go for a cluster or if you’re thinking of something quirky and unique you could go down the vintage route.

Getting the right amount of

and when restrictions were

While weddings have been limited in guest numbers eased, they hosted one-to-one over the previous year, 2021 will hopefully see a appointment-only show-arounds relaxation of the rules so couples can plan ahead for couples. sparkle is also important and this will be determined by the cut.

It could be princess, emerald, oval, pear or marquise – whatever you choose it will be perfect if you have considered the ‘diamond checklist’ – the cut, clarity, colour and carat.

And assuming your partner says ‘yes’, you now have to

start planning!

With all the uncertainty of 2020 hopefully fading fast, many couples who had to postpone their weddings have already booked dates for 2021 so this year venues are going to be mega-busy!

Many used the lockdowns of 2020 to refurbish and refresh

So, if you are planning to get married this year or in 2022 you really do need to be thinking ahead. There’s lots to think about, if you want to tie the knot in church then you need to get a date booked as well as a venue. Once those are done, that will set the tone for your big day.

Other things to consider include THE dress, bridesmaids, wedding rings, flowers, transport, guest accommodation, speeches, menus and the honeymoon – the list is endless!

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of planning a wedding is to enjoy it – once we have clarity and certainty as we go into 2021, couples can plan ahead and look forward to their very special day! n

Small and Gourmet Weddings Northcote ourmet Gourmet Gourmet Weddings Weddings Weddings at Northcote atBeautiful Northcote Northcote Gourmet Weddings atatat Northcote Weddings at Northcote

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Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 rthcote ho, Blackburn, Road,Northcote Langho, Lancashire Northcote Blackburn, Road, BB6Langho, 8BE Langho, Lancashire Blackburn, BB6 8BE Lancashire BB6 8BE Northcote Road, Road, Langho, Blackburn, Blackburn, Lancashire Lancashire BB6 BB6 8BE 8BE 8BE | | www.northcote.com | | | | | || www.northcote.com Telephone: 01254 240 555 Email: events@northcote.com | | www.northcote.com | ephone: 555 Email: 01254 events@northcote.com 240 Telephone: 555 01254 Email: 01254 events@northcote.com 240 www.northcote.com Email: events@northcote.com www.northcote.com Telephone: 240 555555 Email: events@northcote.com Telephone: 01254 240 555 Email: events@northcote.com www.northcote.com | | | | | | | @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk | | | | @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk /NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk northcoteuk

Weddings at Waddow Hall

Tailor-made celebrations in a unique location Set in 180 acres of lush greenery, Waddow Hall is certain to wow your guests. We have a licence for civil ceremonies and our experienced, friendly team are on hand to produce the wedding day of your dreams.

A variety of stunning accommodation options are available in the main house. Or, if you fancy something a little different, why not camp with us or make the most of our adventurous activities?

Take advantage of: A variety of catering options • Fully licenced bar Rooms dressed according to theme • Marquee

Wedding photos The Fromm Shoppe

Get in touch if you’d like more information or to book a wedding or reception to remember.

01200 423186 | waddow@girlguiding.org.uk

girlguidingactivitycentres.org.uk/waddow

Registered charity number 306016.

JANET ISHERWOOD JEWELLERY Wedding & engagement ring specialists Contemporary retail jewellery On-site workshop Bespoke jewellery commissions Jewellery remodelling service

32 KAY STREET, RAWTENSTALL, ROSSENDALE, LANCASHIRE BB4 7LS 01706 831257 www.janetisherwoodjewellery.co.uk info@janetisherwoodjewellery.co.uk

weddings

JUST PERFECT

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Chef Liam Cooper will work with them to recreate this, meaning that no two wedding breakfast menus will be the same.

Couples can choose to host their civil ceremony in the contemporary settings of the Raikeside Suite or surrounded by panoramic countryside views and landscaped gardens in the outdoor gazebo. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests can enjoy drinks and canapés while enjoying the stunning views in the hotel gardens – the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs.

If you are looking for a fabulous wedding venue, then look no further. The luxuriously refurbished Mytton Fold is just perfect!

2

020 was a year like no other, with the pandemic impacting the wedding industry across the world, causing many couples to put their wedding plans on hold.

Whether you are a couple who has had to postpone your big day and are still looking for your dream venue for 2021 onwards, or if you were lucky enough to have a lockdown engagement and want to get started with your wedding planning journey, the wedding team at Mytton Fold Hotel are on hand to help.

We know that wedding planning can be stressful, even without a global pandemic, and that’s why when you book your wedding at Mytton Fold, you are given full support and guidance from an experienced wedding co-ordinator, from your very first enquiry through to the day of your wedding itself.

Mytton Fold Wedding and Events Co-ordinator Emily Potter explains: “We have regular appointments with couples to really build up a picture of what they want from their wedding day, meaning

that when the big day arrives we can take care of even the smallest of details, allowing brides and grooms to relax and enjoy the most important day of their lives. We always go above and beyond to exceed expectations and to ensure that the couple have the most perfect day.”

From helping helping brides and grooms to choose their favours, to guiding them on music choices and table plans, having a dedicated wedding co-ordinator to run through everything step by step keeps couples organised and calm.

Every wedding is unique, which is why all wedding packages are bespoke to each couple.

Emily adds: “No two weddings are the same and it’s important to see the couple’s personalities shining through in their colour schemes, table centrepieces and even food and drink choices.”

Every wedding breakfast menu at Mytton Fold is personalised to each couple’s tastes, allowing them to select each course.

If the couple have a favourite dish, Executive

The beautiful Abbey Suite was purposely designed for weddings and can seat up to 250 guests for the wedding breakfast. This bright, spacious room is self-contained and belongs exclusively to the couple and their wedding party for the entire day.

In the evening, the resident DJ entertains wedding parties and guests can choose to relax in the bar area or dance the night away on the iconic dancefloor. Mytton Fold offers a discounted bedroom rate for all wedding guests, and for the newlyweds the luxurious Bridal Suite is complimentary for the night of the wedding.

There is availability for 2021 and Mytton Fold has already seen a high volume of bookings for 2022 and 2023. n To check availability, receive a personalised quote or book to view this wonderful wedding venue, please email: events@myttonfold.co.uk or call 01254 240662

Mytton Fold Hotel Whalley Road, Langho BB6 8AB 01254 240662 reception@myttonfold.co.uk myttonfold.co.uk

The One THIS IS

A TRULY MEMORABLE VENUE

Crow Wood Hotel has become the wedding venue of choice for 2021 and beyond.

It has all the grandeur of a bygone era in an ultra-modern setting, with a breathtaking panorama.

Arrange your private viewing now

crowwoodhotel.com

Imagine...

A magical private wedding in the Lake District Enter through electric gates to discover this beautiful sanctuary in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning woodland in the heart of a hundred acre estate, Gilpin Lake House is quiet, untouched, and devoid of traffic or people – a place to forget about everything.

Perfect for intimate weddings of up to 15 people, the Lake House is fully serviced with Relais & Châteaux trained staff and Michelin starred chefs, and our dedicated team balance warmth and friendliness with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences.

With its own lake and pool, the house and grounds provide an inspiring and peaceful location with an abundance of natural beauty. Set on three levels with a beautiful entrance and sweeping staircase, the interiors are stylish, comfortable and warm, with a touch of home.

The six sumptuous bedrooms are individually designed and furnished, with crisp white linen, exquisite fabrics, wonderful upholstery, and delicious art. The lounge is scattered with sofas, armchairs and bookcases, and the huge adjoining conservatory has floor to ceiling glass on two sides; both rooms overlook the private lake. On the lower floor the heated indoor pool and sauna lead to the lake, cedarwood hot and gardens.

Elsewhere in the grounds there are kitchen gardens, a boat house, mature woodland, moorland, grassland, wild ponds, and a lovely walk with 360° panoramic views of the Lake District, including Coniston and the Llangdales in the distance.

We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

love ◦ laughter ◦ happily ever after

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House ◦ Windermere ◦ 015394 88818 ◦ hotel@thegilpin.co.uk ◦ www.thegilpin.co.uk

EDUCATIONN E W S

EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAMME Blackburn College has launched its Advance Employability Programme for 16 to 18-year-old learners. The programme will facilitate the improvement of professional skills, ensuring learners are prepared for work and further study and are developing the attributes needed to excel in their careers. Gillian Cairns, Education and Workforce Lead at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted to support the Advance Employability Programme. We want to work with the college to enable young people to be successful when applying for jobs.”

Among the students involved in the Advance Employability Programme are Katy Barton (Childcare), Aamir Patel (Construction), Natasha-Leigh Hedley (Motor Vehicle) and Patrick Maynard (Health and Social Care Cadet).

NIAMH’S CHARITY BIKE RIDE Congratulations to Stonyhurst pupil Niamh (Year 2) who completed her Brownie Guide #ActYourAge challenge in partnership with Children in Need. Niamh cycled a challenging seven miles from Pendleton to Worston to Downham and back again. The weather wasn’t the best and it wasn’t helped by some very large puddles. However, Niamh’s ‘Quant Je Puis’ attitude was very evident even when she had to cycle with a very soggy foot! Niamh has raised a good amount of sponsorship too, well done!

ELF DAY

BIOLOGY FIELD TRIP

Westholme Infant and Junior students unleashed their inner elves in December by dressing up to raise money to support the Alzheimer’s Society. One of their students in Year 3 has previously raised money for the charity. The students dressed up in various outfits to support a very worthwhile charity whilst also bringing festive cheer and magic to all.

Year 13 students at Westholme School took a biology trip to Blencathra Field Studies Centre, in the Lake District, to study ecology for their A Level studies in Biology. The weather was dry and warm while the students embraced learning new skills and improving their knowledge of biology in a practical, adventurous setting. Social distancing and hygiene measures were maintained to keep everyone safe whilst taking part in a school trip surrounded by the beautiful views of the Lake District.

CHILDREN IN NEED Westholme School had a ‘spotacular’ day raising money for Children in Need. The students and staff at the Infant and Junior Schools took part in dressing up for the

occasion with painted coloured spots on their faces, Pudsey the Bear ears, tops, socks and more! The day was a great success as they raised £2,170 for this great cause!

GREAT EXHIBITION

INTER HOUSE CROSS COUNTRY

During lockdown, Oakhill pupils took part in the national Great Exhibition at Home Competition which got pupils thinking about what they would invent to benefit the world.

There were some amazing ideas and 19 pupils received certificates of commendation.

However, Thomas Pugh in Year 10 impressed the judges with his fantastic GymGenerator idea and was awarded a Special Commendation prize as his entry was one of the top entries across the whole of the country! This was an amazing achievement and Oakhill is extremely proud of him.

Students from both Westholme Junior School and Westholme Senior School took part in their Inter House Cross Country. Each year group ran separately staggered across a week to adhere to their year group bubbles, keeping them safe. The PE staff mapped out a course that took the students around the school grounds and fields that surround Westholme in the beautiful countryside.

Students from Year 1 through to Year 13 got involved and they thoroughly enjoyed being outside and taking part in a fun-filled race!

MEET RICK

RICK FOUND A NEW PASSION AND MOTIVATION THROUGH LANDSCAPING HIS GARDEN.

THIS COULD BE YOU!

FREE ONLINE COURSES TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING AVAILABLE NOW

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OF YOUR WELLBEING ENROL NOW AT WWW.LAL.AC.UK

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EDUCATIONN E W S GIRLS’ ELITE FOOTBALL

JUNIOR CURATORS Last term Upper Elements (Year 6) at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall honed their curatorial skills through a series of remote lessons devised and delivered by the College Curator, Dr Jan Graffius. The sessions looked at museum skills, using the college’s extensive collections, and featured a variety of practical exercises.

The pupils learnt about potential damage to artefacts from light levels and inappropriate handling. They examined the problems caused by insects in museums, from moth, to bookworm to the voracious woolly bear grubs. Another recent session examined the college’s stunning collection of Shireburn family portraits, asking questions about what we can learn from hidden symbols in these paintings, including paintings which boast about the sitter’s intellect or marriageability, or demonstrate loyalty to the Crown in the aftermath of the disastrous 1715 Jacobite rebellion. The pupils then created their own symbolic portraits, based on elements of their own lives, from pets to people and hobbies.

Rossall School has announced that Millie Bright, England Lioness and Chelsea defender, is to become the ambassador for the school’s brand new Girls’ Elite Football Programme in partnership with League One football club, Fleetwood Town (FTFC). Rossall has enjoyed a collaborative partnership with FTFC since early 2017 when the Boys’ Elite Football Programme was established. The success of this programme has been quite extraordinary, with membership of the programme growing from three pupils to nearly 40, who are selected from over 20 countries internationally. The programme has now expanded to include the Senior Girls’ Programme, which Millie will be supporting. From September 2021, this will run alongside a new Junior Programme

for girls and boys. Both Rossall and FTFC are committed to building upon the success of the existing Football Development Programme, which provides elite coaching, outstanding training facilities, and competitive fixtures against leading academy teams from across the UK and beyond.

WORLD KINDNESS DAY

PYJAMA DONATIONS

As part of World Kindness Day in association with the Kindness Coach, QEGS launched their very first Kindness Month. Across the month, they worked with Blackburn-based John Magee and undertook the 30 Days of Kindness Challenge, which included a range of activities across the school including reflection, tasks and discussions on what it means to be kind and how kindness can feature in every area of school life. The school also installed a Random Acts of Kindness post box in the main reception where staff, pupils and students could anonymously let the school know what acts of kindness they have shown, or have been shown, and these were shared each week. Parents and carers were also encouraged to email in the random acts of kindness that they have seen or done.

Millie said: “It’s a huge honour to be asked

by Rossall to become an ambassador for the new Girls’ Elite Football Programme.

I am really excited that they are offering scholarships for talented and hard-working girl players. I am where I am today through my work ethic and I would encourage everyone to follow their journey and dreams like I did mine through hard work, commitment and passion for the game.”

Children’s Hospital Pyjamas are a UK based charity, who collect donations of brand new pyjamas, which are then donated to hospitals, hospices, school hospital teams and women’s refuges up and down the country. These are then given to poorly or less fortunate children who are inpatients. Moorland School have raised donations to be able to provide more than 30 pairs of pyjamas in varying sizes and age groups. The children at the school bravely took part in a, slightly poorly timed, pyjama day, turning up to school in a wide range of onesies and pyjama based outfits!

Some even managing to combine dressing up as their favourite characters in their pyjamas! The children all had an excellent day, with donations allowing the school to contribute another 10 additional pairs from donations kindly received from students and parents. The support shown for this great cause was heart-warming and as part of the Moorland family we thank everyone.

A C O - E D U C AT I O N A L B O A R D I N G A N D D AY SCHOOL FOR 0–18 YEAR OLDS

Whole Sc hool Open After noon Nurser y, Junior Sc hool, Senior Sc hool, Sixth For m

WEDNESDAY 10TH MARCH 2020 2.00PM Up to 100% means-tested Sc holarships and Bursar ies are available.

exploration, enjoyment, excellence INSPIRING

Pr ivate Tours can be ar ranged on request.

For more information, to register for our next Open Event or a private tour, please visit our website:

www.rossall.org.uk Rossall School, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 8JW Telephone 01253 774201 Email admissions@rossall.org.uk

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education

NEW PRINCIPAL Dr Richard Robson, the new Principal at Westholme, is set to join the school at a momentous time in its history

D

r Richard Robson is the incoming Principal at Westholme School, a prominent independent school for pupils aged three to 18 in Lancashire. In an interview prior to his arrival in January 2021 Dr Robson explains why he is so excited about his new role.

What attracted you to Westholme?

I’ve always known about Westholme School, its family ethos, wonderful setting and strong reputation. I was attracted to the all-round education the school provides. As a school inspector, I have visited many schools and gained a unique perspective of the diverse independent sector. Westholme’s unique holistic approach chimed with my own educational philosophy and this balanced approach, educating the whole child, was very much something that I was looking for.

What brings you back to the North West?

I grew up in the North, so I am very at home with the community feel and of course the weather! Previously, I was Headmaster of an independent school in central Manchester and I always envisaged one day of leading a school in a more rural setting. When I arrived for my interview at Westholme,

3D Entrance View

I remember just standing in the car park next to the swimming pool, mesmerized by the breath-taking panoramic view that completely envelops the school. I’m so excited about the opportunity to live and work within the beautiful Ribble Valley.

What do you think of Westholme so far?

I have been very impressed with the students I have met so far – they are friendly and clearly very switched on. I was struck by how the staff camaraderie, particularly during this unprecedented global pandemic, has really pulled them together. I am looking forward to becoming part of this vibrant, Westholme community and getting to know all the staff, students and their families from January.

What will you hope to bring to Westholme?

The departing Head Boy described Westholme to me as, ‘the best of both worlds.’ I hope to build on this concept and continue to develop the school in providing academic rigour and holistic opportunities, inside and outside the classroom. In June 2019, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) reported that nearly half of all employers found young people were not ready for

3D Rear View

the world of work. They said that broader skills are needed. I firmly believe that these 21st century skills, such as problem-solving, resilience, communication and adaptability, are essential for employability and to sustain a successful career in the modern workplace.

What should we look out for in the future as you take Westholme School forward?

I have been encouraged by the strategic vision the governors have for the school in terms of a seamless education for children from three to 18. By 2022, all Westholme pupils will be educated on one site at Wilmar Lodge on Meins Road and a new, state-of-the-art Prep School will open.

Through this multimillion-pound project, many school facilities will benefit from a programme of improvement.

In 2023, Westholme celebrates its centenary.

I am thrilled to be joining the school at such a momentous time in the school’s history.

My ambition is to continue to provide a first-class, outstanding education for Westholmians for many years to come. n

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

PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER 2021 contact our registrar on 01254 506088 or registrar@westholmeschool.com

ONE SMALL STEP… The youngest children at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall enjoy a learning environment that gives them opportunities and experiences to develop skills and confidence

S

t Mary’s Hall offers a challenging and stimulating environment which allows children to feel happy, confident and valued. Children are nurtured to ensure they reach their full potential academically, socially, emotionally, physically and creatively.

The Stonyhurst motto, ‘Quant Je Puis’ or ‘as much as I can’, is as tangible and meaningful for the youngest members in St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep as it is at Stonyhurst College.

The children in the Pre-Prep at Hodder House are encouraged to embrace: • All that they can be • All that they can see • All that they can do • All that they can learn For a three-year-old, St Mary’s Hall nursery is the first step in the Stonyhurst journey that will take them seamlessly through an enriching education and into the world beyond. Based in Hodder House on the Stonyhurst campus, children from age three, or in the term that they turn three, enjoy a broad curriculum that celebrates each individual and offers them countless opportunities to discover their talents. St Mary’s Hall presents a unique opportunity for parents to give their child aged from three to 13, the best education possible. Taking a solid academic

approach with specialist teaching, children are presented with opportunities to develop a broad range of skills.

PRE-PREP PUPILS ALSO BENEFIT FROM AN ETHOS THAT COMBINES THE TRADITIONAL VALUES OF COURTESY, GOOD MANNERS AND POLITENESS Children in the Early Years learn through exploring, being creative, having the opportunity to think critically and by being active. The recently extended Hodder House building is a calm and flexible space which offers an exciting environment both indoors and outdoors within a countryside setting. The children also have access to the vast facilities within the Stonyhurst campus,

education

including indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a swimming pool, sports pitches, a theatre, an observatory and access to the unique historic collections within Stonyhurst College, which brings history to life for even the youngest of pupils.

Highly trained teachers facilitate learning by observing the children’s interactions and interests and adapting the provision to meet the needs of all children, focusing on ‘stage not age’. The activities and curriculum are carefully planned to ensure they are thought provoking and motivating, promoting independence in the children’s learning journey and a natural thirst and curiosity for knowledge. There is an emphasis on a child-led curriculum with experiences both inside and outside. Mathematics along with early reading and writing, creative arts, music or physical education including dance, swimming and tennis are integral elements to the school day. Stimulation, excitement and experiential learning are considered key. In short, learning is engaging and fun.

At each new Key Stage opportunities are unlocked with access to facilities that broaden children’s horizons. While most nursery settings keep children in one room, at Hodder House this isn’t the case. The unique campus allows for everyday learning to be taken outside of the classroom to make the most of the woodland setting.

Here children are allowed to develop a wide range of skills including confidence, independence, social and risk taking skills with a hands-on approach.

The outdoors are also used during an activities programme, which may involve getting their hands dirty in the gardening club where the Pre-Prep children have fun growing vegetables to take to a food bank. The children are given learning opportunities that build confidence and eloquence – key skills that will take t hem through St Mary’s Hall, Stonyhurst College and into the exciting world of university and work.

“We believe in equipping children to

think for themselves and take risks within safe boundaries. For example, the children are found building dens using natural materials or even toasting marshmallows on an open fire to name but a few activities!

New experiences present opportunities,” explains Ros Wroblewski, Assistant Head (Primary Phase) of St Mary’s Hall.

“We encourage creative thinking that pushes boundaries.”

CHILDREN ARE PRESENTED WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP A BROAD RANGE OF SKILLS While St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep is based in Hodder House, it is very much part of the Stonyhurst campus.Younger children take part in whole school assemblies and have the opportunity to interact with older pupils, giving them further opportunities to enjoy the international dimension to the school. As a boarding school it has a worldwide reach attracting overseas pupils, who introduce other cultures and languages. From Pre-Prep all pupils are encouraged to act, sing, dance and perform

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with confidence before an audience. The annual Nativity sees all the younger pupils perform alongside professional musicians.

The St Mary’s Hall school day incorporates various extra-curricular activities into the curriculum with all facilities on-site. In recognition of the busy working lives of some parents, the Pre-Prep unit has provision for an extended day where children can enjoy tea with fellow pupils and an exciting activities programme once the normal school day has ended.

The strong Jesuit principals of broadening horizons and looking to the future, underpins learning for Pre-Prep pupils, who also benefit from an ethos that combines the traditional values of courtesy, good manners and politeness, which they learn from an early age.

When a child starts their journey at St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep, parents become a part of the wider Stonyhurst community and all the facilities the school has to offer.

Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep welcomes children of all faiths and offers an accessible and affordable education for all children at nursery age. Parents who are looking for a nursery for their child are welcome to visit the school and see the wonderful facilities that will give their child a great start on their learning journey. n To arrange a private visit or for more information about St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep please contact Sarah Morrison the St Mary’s Hall Registrar on 01254 826242

OPEN DAYS Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall: Saturday 6th March 2021 and Monday 3rd May 2021 Stonyhurst College: Saturday 13th March 2021

Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Clitheroe BB7 9PU 01254 827073 stonyhurst.ac.uk TM

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education

HOPE FOR HENRY

P

St Mary’s College staff members have teamed up to raise money for a colleague who has been diagnosed with life threatening illnesses

am Lightbown, HE Coordinator within St Mary’s College and Jo Lewis, a tutor at Liverpool Hope University have joined forces to fundraise for their colleague Dr Henry Kum. The two colleagues are working with members of staff from Liverpool Hope University to raise money for Henry’s life improving treatment that he cannot get in the UK. He was diagnosed with lymphoma and prostate cancer over the summer, along with managing a brain tumour, which Henry was diagnosed with in 2014.

There is good news though, as treatment for Henry’s condition is available in Turkey with researchers affiliated to Boston University, at a cost of £90,000. Researchers are confident that the treatment will have a positive impact on his condition and his quality of life.

Liverpool Hope University staff members have created a ‘Hope for Henry’ fundraiser, where staff are taking part in various activities alongside a step challenge and an online auction.

Pam and Jo are taking part in a sponsored walk of 10,000 steps per day to reach their target of 90,000 steps in support of Henry.

Pam said: “Getting to know Henry’s story, I wanted to offer my support as he is a very well known and loved member of staff who has visited St Mary’s to teach.”

St Mary’s College and Liverpool Hope University have worked in partnership since 1999. n St Mary’s College Shear Brow Blackburn BB1 8DX 01254 580464 stmarysblackburn.ac.uk

Whatever you’re facing We’re here to listen Call free day or night on

116 123 Email

jo@samaritans.org A registered charity Chris O’Donovan Photography/Samaritans

samaritans.org/blackburn

“Moorland is a Magnificent School” YAYA TOURÉ 2020

The Moorland Family Welcomes Yaya Touré Yaya Touré, a world class footballing superstar known throughout the world as one of the best players who has ever played the game. Yaya Touré has previously played for Barcelona, alongside players such as Lionel Messi, and Manchester City FC. During his career, Yaya’s accolades have included winning the Premier League three times, African Player of the Year four times, the African Cup of Nations and the Champions League.

Yaya has spent the entire week at Moorland School working with all of our children from the Junior School right through to our BTEC Level 3 post sixteen cohort of football players.

However, Yaya concentrated his coaching efforts on our Under 12’s and 16’s as this is the area in which he needed to gain the most experience, having never coached these age groups had previously.

Yaya Touré was coaching the children alongside Moorland School’s Academy Manager, Coach Jackson who is the current Manchester City Head Development Centre Coach, and Moorland School past pupil and ex England and Manchester United star John Cofie.

Yaya coached the children with the same passion and enthusiasm he demonstrated on the pitch and shared with the students his experience, knowledge and expertise. The children asked Yaya many questions and he answered all of their questions warmly and engaged with all present.

Yaya shared many personal experiences during his time as a professional player within his various clubs and this extended to other professional players, coaches and managers.

Yaya developed a lovely warm rapport with all of our students and completely impressed all of our coaching and teaching staff by quickly getting to know all of our children by name.

WWW.MOORLANDFOOTBALL.CO.UK

Yaya’s touch on the ball was simply magical and effortless and the Moorland footballers watched his technical abilities in complete awe.

Yaya brought many of his own experiences into the training drills with the children and he emulated and included many of Coach Jackson’s highly technical and fast paced drills, some of which have been previously listed on the UEFA Training Ground website as being exemplar technical training drills. The children were seen laughing and joking with Yaya and theyquickly developed a real trust and bond with the international superstar.

Yaya requested to speak to the children and staff at Moorland School on his final day of coaching and said to his excited audience “Moorland is a magnificent school; I am very grateful to share this wonderful experience with the children and coaches. It has been an amazing week at Moorland and I have had so much fun, hanging out with the kids, it’s been brilliant and I’ve really enjoyed it. Charlie and John were really good with me. To be able to have this experience with the kids is really special, they’ve been really nice with me, I’ve just tried to share my experience as a footballer with them, that time was brilliant. I really appreciate it and I hope they appreciate it as well and I hope to be able to see them again soon.”

Academy Manager, Coach Jackson added; ‘I have known Yaya previously from his time as a professional player at Manchester City. I knew he was a great guy and that his attitude and ethos would be ideal to help develop the students here at the academy. Our training at Moorland School develops each player extensively on a technical level and as individuals, whilst being able to give them the opportunity to meet their heroes, which creates true aspirational experiences, whilst providing drive, dedication, passion and confidence to strive towards achieving their own personal goals.’

WWW.MOORLANDFOOTBALL.CO.UK

Academy ACHIEVEMENTS OVER 30 PLAYERS SIGNED TO PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS WORLDWIDE

ISFA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

2014

2017

ESFA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

2020

LANCASHIRE SCHOOLS CUP WINNERS

2014

2017

2018

2018

ESFA NATIONAL FINALISTS

LANCASHIRE SCHOOLS CUP FINALISTS

2020 2016

2019

Mr Harrison also spoke with a personal friend of Yaya at the end of the week to thank him for the experience and he said ‘I didn’t truly understand or appreciate the gravitas of having Yaya Touré visit with us at Moorland School for the week. I now naturally realise what a huge internationally acclaimed football star that he is. However, for me the most impressive and humbling experience was in how genuinely warm, enthusiastic, caring, patient and unassuming Yaya Touré was with the children, staff and visitors. He is truly an incredible human being both on and off the pitch and I hope that he will always consider our school as being his humble home amongst friends.’

Moorland School has achieved regional and national cup success on many occasions and they are the current Lancashire and ISFA National Champions of England. Moorland has been recognised by many as being the most prestigious footballing centre of excellence within the UK. Moorland School has seen three football players called up this week by their country for international duty.

Moorland School provides a first-class education within a safe and nurturing academic environment, where all children can achieve their true academic and social potentials in confidence.

If your son or daughter have a passion for football or indeed any other unique programme of study such as ballet or academics then we believe that Clitheroe’s only private school is the only real and sensible choice for both you and your child.

Please contact our Admissions Manager, Mr Carl Lightbown to arrange a socially distanced tour of our warm Moorland Family school.

MOORLAND PRIVATE SCHOOL RIBBLESDALE AVE, CLITHEROE BB7 2JA +44 (0) 1200 423 833 WWW.MOORLANDFOOTBALL.CO.UK

WWW.MOORLANDFOOTBALL.CO.UK

WWW.MOORLANDFOOTBALL.CO.UK

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REDEVELOPED SIXTH FORM A newly, redeveloped Sixth Form is due to open in Blackburn in September 2021

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new A-Level study centre that will form part of Blackburn College, will see a redevelopment project and an extension added to a building that opened in 2007 – and the creation of Blackburn Sixth Form.

Blackburn Sixth Form will be an environment with a unique academic ethos, however, there will also be new enrichment activities, an enhanced tutorial model, work experience weeks linking in with major employers and support for parents.

The announcement follows

a successful year of A-Level recruitment and significant increases in A-Level grades achieved in 2019/20.

Alongside the launch of Blackburn Sixth Form will be the launch of three new professional pathways of study – Law, Business and Science – which will allow students to combine A-Levels and an industryrelevant qualification.

Dr Fazal Dad, Principal and Chief Executive at Blackburn College said: “This is an exciting redevelopment that will transform A-Level and academic studies in Blackburn and give A-Level

students a truly dedicated, academic Sixth Form study experience.

“The expansion of our A-Level delivery with the introduction of new A-Level subjects including Music and the new A-Level pathways, highlight our determination to be a Further Education leader in Lancashire for A-Levels.

“The College is investing in providing the best possible education resources for future students.

“There will be a large-scale building project that will see the creation of new study spaces

resulting in a new, impressive Sixth Form for Blackburn.

“This news follows our 100 per cent A-Level pass rate in 21 subjects and our increase in A*, A and B grades in 2019/20.” n

To find more information about A-Level courses, and to apply for the 2021/22 academic year please visit: blackburn.ac.uk

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ore and more of us are now keen to support our local businesses and communities, and a newly formed constitution, Love Longridge, is working hard to raise the profile of their fabulous market town: “Longridge has a wonderful array of shops, businesses, galleries, restaurants and cafes,” explains Gary Ward of Raymond James Investment Services in the town. “The purpose of Love Longridge is to bring them together, along with members of the community, and embrace all that is so brilliant about Longridge.”

OUR TOWN IS UNIQUE, INTERESTING, PROGRESSIVE AND WORTH CUSTOMERS EXPLORING ITS BUSINESSES

A group of local businesses have come together to form a new network, Love Longridge, and need your help in putting their wonderful town firmly on the map, writes Gail Bailey

Set in glorious countryside, the market town commands some amazing views and scenery. From the top of Longridge Fell it is possible to see the Welsh mountains, the Isle of Man, the Yorkshire Three Peaks and across the local valleys.

“There are already various local companies involved in Love Longridge who are working to develop the town and combine the success of business and the community. If local businesses succeed, then the community succeeds also,” says Gary.

Some of those businesses explained why they wanted to be involved with Love Longridge.

Alistair Sherat from Longridge Gallery said: “There are a number of really great businesses in Longridge across many business sectors – construction, professional services, manufacturing, food and retail. The formation of the business group is a response to the needs of these businesses to attract customers, locally, regionally and nationally. Small businesses struggle to be heard in a cluttered media landscape. The combined weight this group brings will help the town and its businesses stand out from the crowd and highlight the reasons why our town is unique, interesting, progressive and worth customers exploring its businesses.”

This was echoed by Angela Bartley of 828 Law in the town: “I have lived in Longridge all my life and was always going to set up my business here. I am really

McDade Roberts Expect more...

keen to help to continue the growth of the town and to help local businesses thrive – it is so important we all work and support each other, especially after the last 12 months and the impact Covid has had on many businesses.”

to it was the vibrancy of independent shops and businesses that attracted me to the town.

It is a great place to live and to work and I’m so glad to be involved in this new group and excited about some of the ideas and plans we are already starting to develop,” explains Zoe.

WE ALL HAVE THE SAME CRYSTAL-CLEAR OBJECTIVE TO INCREASE, DEVELOP AND IMPROVE LONGRIDGE

Crisp White Sheets owner Zoe Cooper had previously been involved in a networking business and was immediately keen to be a part of Love Longridge and support getting the town more recognised on the local map.

“When I was looking where to re-locate

Love Longridge has members from a variety of businesses and across a range of ages and experience. They are all driven by the same goals, to increase tourists visiting the area, to encourage local residents to stay and shop in their town and to support the businesses themselves to stay healthy and profitable.

Others so far signed up to the venture are Fitness Plus Gym, Lancslocal, EGP UK, McDade Roberts, Tonic Acupuncture

and Phil Garlington Photography.

“We are still a newly formed constitution and are calling out for others to join us, volunteer and get involved in our vision,” Gary says. “Our new website is being launched and there will be a link on it for businesses or individuals to join. We all have the same crystal-clear objective to increase, develop and improve Longridge – for everyone.” n

For more information go to: lovelongridge@gmail.com

BUSINESS MATTERS

tbc lifestyle 130 business

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the thriving Ribble Valley, where business always matters If you have any Business Matters news items contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

CREATIVE AWARD FOR LOLLI

VIRTUAL HUGS

Having been shortlisted following a rigorous application and judging process, young business people in Lancashire celebrated their achievements recently at the Sub36 Awards virtual ceremony.

Organised by Lancashire Business View, the awards are designed to honour the county’s most influential, innovative and inspiring young men and women in business under the age of 36.

For Lancashire Day 2020 Marketing Lancashire invited the county to share thank-you photo messages and virtual hug videos, in a year that has challenged and affected us all.

People across the county and beyond responded in their thousands and the hashtag #LancashireDay reached out to a record-breaking 147million people in 846 different locations around the world. From the USA and Canada to the United Arab Emirates and Australia, messages wishing a ‘Happy Lancashire Day’ filled the Marketing Lancashire social media channels and were shared, liked and retweeted to millions more.

Taking place via Zoom, the ceremony saw appearances from a number of special guest speakers, and winners across 14 categories were revealed on the night.

Amongst them was Lolli Molyneux-Dixon a local creative writer, editor of LOLLIPOP magazine, and copywriter at Root Fifty Two marketing agency in Burnley who was announced as winner of the Creative Award.

Impressed by Lolli’s portfolio and her creative output, in their feedback the judges said they had been bowled over by her dedication and drive to succeed in all aspects of her work.

“When they announced me as the winner and my name flashed up on the screen, I was over the moon!” said Lolli, aged 24.

“It was a huge surprise to win this year, as the competition was tough and the other candidates were all really strong, so I’d been very careful not to get my hopes up! I think being a finalist in itself is a huge accomplishment, especially with this year being what it is – to be shortlisted for an award such as this is a big win in itself!”

Rachel McQueen, Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “Each year we try and build on the previous Lancashire Day campaign and encourage others to create their own events and activities, to increase the spotlight on our county’s incredible accomplishments and hospitality. This year, we chose to focus on sending virtual hugs and thanks, and we are delighted that this struck a chord with so many of our fellow Lancastrians. I’d like to give my particular thanks to our partners who generously supplied so many wonderful prizes, especially during such a tough time for them.”

LANCASHIRE BUSINESS CHAMPIONS Small community-based businesses locally will be given the opportunity to be crowned champion of their town or the whole of Lancashire in 2021 following the launch of an exciting awards programme. The Town & County Business Champions 2021 Awards have been launched to highlight the achievements of the UK’s very best micro and small businesses who are keeping community spirit alive in their local area. The awards are aimed at any businesses with up to 50 employees.

Now open, the awards will culminate with five regional finals in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Northern England and Southern England.

The regional finals will produce champions at both town and county levels and businesses will only be in competition with other firms from their area.

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BUILDING YOUR WEALTH

Photography: Roger Moore

With a dedicated team and vast local knowledge, these property experts are delivering excellent returns on their customers’ investments, writes Kate Ford

W

ith interest rates at a record low, the property investment route to wealth acquisition is becoming increasingly attractive to anyone with money put aside.

The benefits of property investment are well understood

by the team at Flagship North Investments in Preston, whose bespoke service is tailored to individual clients’ needs.

“Property is an extremely reliable and low risk investment,” says MD Matthew Knowles.

“It can provide a long-term income or deliver very healthy returns very quickly.”

Having agreed a tailor-made plan for each client, Flagship North source the ideal property

and then manage the whole conveyancing process. If a client wants to refurbish a property to sell on at a higher price, Flagship North even has its own refurbishment team to undertake the work.

CLIENTS HAVE SEEN RETURNS OF UP TO £18,000 IN A MATTER OF MONTHS Matthew explains: “We offer fixed price quotations for the work to ensure the client’s investment is always fully protected. Recent clients have seen returns of up to £18,000 in a matter of months.”

Matthew and operations

manager, Rachel Suthers, use their extensive local knowledge to source the perfect property for each client. “We buy at below market value in areas we know are good for resale or prime for rental,” says Rachel.

“We offer free, no obligation advice so, whether you’re looking for a quick return or aiming to build a property portfolio, we’ll talk you through the excellent investment opportunities.” n

Flagship North Investments 01772 305202 info@flagship-north.com flagship-north.com

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Robert and Amanda Parker, are taking Browsholme Hall well and truly into the 21st century

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sing the Covid lockdowns as a time to step back and reflect, Robert and Amanda Parker have taken the opportunity to take stock and re-evaluate the future of the historic Browsholme Hall, which has been their family home for more than 500 years.

As the spring and summer months of 2020 slowly set into autumn and winter, Amanda and Robert worked hard to identify opportunities which might take Browsholme Hall to the next level as an attraction.

Day visitors and weddings have been the core business, but the potential increase in families taking their holidays in the English countryside rather than abroad have opened up new avenues of enterprise that is set to bring Browsholme back to life as we enter 2021, as Amanda explains: “We have used the enforced break of the last nine months to step back. We have been so full on for so many years, it was good to be able to plan how we could adapt and develop the estate for people to enjoy.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

TO SOME EXTENT WE ARE GOING INTO THE UNKNOWN, BUT WE ARE VERY EXCITED ABOUT THE EVENTS SIDE OF THE BUSINESS “We thought, we have these wonderful grounds and gardens, we have the hall, the wedding barn and the converted cart shed – what can we do with them when visitors start coming back?”

Their agile and astute planning has already paid off. When the first lockdown was lifted, they had so many enquiries from people wanting ‘staycations’ in Browsholme’s luxury, woodland micro-lodges, Amanda struggled to keep up with demand: “As soon as I put them up on the website the enquiries kept on coming. People were wanting short breaks as well as longer holidays and the feedback we had was incredible. It was so rewarding to hear our guests say how luxurious the pods were and their delight at the beautiful setting in the Ribble Valley countryside!”

The 10 micro lodges in the Woodland Glade, were added to the estate two years ago when Robert and Amanda decided that accommodation was essential to

complement the wedding and events side of the business. “There is so little in the way of accommodation in this area – it turned out to be a good move, so it was great to welcome couples, some with children, even dogs to our lodges who enjoyed walking, cycling and the local pubs and restaurants,” adds Amanda.

While the pandemic had a drastic impact on 2020 weddings at Browsholme, Amanda and Robert, as always, were not idle and during lockdown began transforming a lost 18th century ‘wilderness’ into a picturesque garden. The ‘wilderness’ was originally created in 1707 to mark the Act of the Union having been planted in geometric quadrants representing the Union Jack.

“Each quadrant will have a different style of garden separated by beech hedges and grass paths,” explains Robert.

Below this area a ‘lily pond’ has been incorporated into the landscape, reflecting the oak pavilion constructed of trees from the estate. Now licensed for wedding ceremonies, it is anticipated that the garden will become a popular choice for couples wanting an outdoor location.

Fast forward to the 21st century another, informal wedding and events area has also been completed: “Robert calls it the Lonesome Pine – it’s near the lake and of a festival style, with no building – it’s very natural just a clearing in woodland with a 200 year old pine tree as a centrepiece – it’s beautiful,” adds Amanda.

“We realised that 2021 will be different as far as weddings are concerned,” recalls Amanda.

When lockdown was lifted some couples marrying at Browsholme went ahead with the 30-guest limit imposed by the government, but when that went down to 15, many started to postpone: “Everything went off a cliff edge. We moved around 60 weddings to 2021.

PEOPLE WERE WANTING SHORT BREAKS AS WELL AS LONGER HOLIDAYS AND THE FEEDBACK WE HAD WAS INCREDIBLE “I felt so sad for them. Some couples have been very emotional, which is understandable as they haven’t been able to plan anything and the wedding planning should be part of the joy.

“On the positive side bookings for 2022 have shot up – we already have 50 plus bookings.”

As well as weddings Amanda and Robert are planning a programme of events for 2021, when Browsholme will host overnight stays for wellbeing breaks, foraging workshops and yoga as well as training courses and skills-based classes and educational events, which will be held in the new stone-built barn conversion – the Cart Shed.

Not surprisingly this ancient historic

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Photography: Jules Fortune

Photography: Jules Fortune

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home that is Browsholme Hall, requires constant maintenance in order to safeguard its future. But Amanda and Robert are mindful that technology will help propel the estate into the future.

“We want to improve accessibility, so social and digital media will play a part in that. Those on a tour of the Hall who are unable to get upstairs, will be able to have a virtual tour. We have got the go ahead to enhance the ‘back office support’ by re-doing our IT and website. It’s both exciting and mind boggling but it will underpin the business for several years.

“We need to get everything up and running in the next few months in time for the tourist season.”

When the Hall opens to visitors in late spring it will open two days a week, with the tearoom. As soon as restrictions are lifted the Woodland Glade micro-lodges will also be up and running early in the New Year.

With Robert and Amanda responding to the challenges of an exciting future, Browsholme is in good hands so that future generations can enjoy the hall and the estate.

“To some extent we are going into the unknown, but we are very excited about these new opportunities for weddings, day visitors and new events. Browsholme is a wonderful place – but it will always need business enterprise for its preservation.” n

browshome.com

A PERFECT TIME TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE… In the heart of Longridge, situated in the old NatWest bank building on the high street, Raymond James Investment Services offers a range of services and capabilities normally only found in big cities

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aymond James Investment Services’ Branch Principal Wayne Hayhurst talks about the importance of people taking stock of their financial objectives and life goals – and what better time to do it than as part of a New Year’s resolution? Below are some ideas on what could be included in your 2021 financial plans, as well as how the Raymond James Ribble Valley branch could assist.

Make sure you’re on track to meet your financial goals People often don’t know if they’re on track to meet their most important financial goals.

In fact, when asked, the answer to this question is typically ‘no’ or ‘I don’t know’.

Financial goals are specific to each person and could be anything from making sure you’re on track to fund a three-decade retirement without financial worry, planning an exit from your business, funding a child’s

education, or perhaps making sure your estate will end up with the people you want it to, for the reasons you choose.

To get your financial affairs under control It is often the case that individuals amass a variety of pensions, investments and policies over their lifetime. This can result in a bombardment of confusing statements and updates, leaving people feeling overwhelmed and not in control of their finances. At Raymond James, we can advise on all types of pensions, plans and policies, as well as help simplify and consolidate all these accumulated assets.

Why not have 2021 as the year to get all the miscellaneous plans and policies reviewed, refreshed, simplified and back under control.

Review your pensions and retirement plans Pensions are often people’s second most valuable asset after their home but are frequently neglected. It is important that they are serviced and looked after accordingly, just like you would a car. For instance, such a considerable asset being invested largely out of line with your risk tolerance or an

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inappropriate asset allocation, could have a detrimental impact on your retirement plans.

How much will your pension provide in retirement? How much should you be saving?

How many years will your pension last at your desired standard of living before running out? We can help you answer these questions and devise a smart plan to ensure you achieve your retirement income goals.

Educate yourself financially Many people do not feel like they have a good understanding of the stock market or personal finance. A good way to increase your knowledge is to listen to a financial podcast or read a personal finance book.

The book I would recommend everyone to listen to or read is Rich Dad Poor Dad

by Robert Kiyosaki.

WE HELP CLIENTS GROW THEIR WEALTH, LIVE OFF THEIR WEALTH AND PASS ON THEIR WEALTH TO LOVED ONES Rebalance your investment portfolio

Our team of 16 in-house specialists enable us to provide bespoke solutions to match our clients’ individual financial objectives and circumstances. The specialist roles include: • Chartered Financial Planners • Chartered Wealth Managers • Pension Specialists • Detailed Cashflow Planners • Trust, Estate and Later Life Planners • Investment Analysts • Stockbrokers • Discretionary Investment Managers

2020 was a year of extreme swings for virtually all asset classes. It is imperative you make sure your portfolio is well balanced and well positioned for whatever happens next, especially in the continuing uncertain economic and political environments we are currently in. At Raymond James, we may be able to obtain better investment performance with less risk.

How do we help people with their financial affairs?

We provide a high quality, independent, full-service solution for individuals and businesses. Having a wide range of experts here in the Longridge branch, allows us to help our clients meet their financial objectives and life goals. We help clients grow their wealth, live off their wealth and pass on their wealth to loved ones. Our key service areas are savings and investments, pensions and SIPPs, tax-efficient retirement income, stockbroking and estate planning.

We don’t subcontract out to other service providers or companies – we have the capabilities, resources and expertise to do everything in-branch, in a full-service solution.

WHY NOT HAVE 2021 AS THE YEAR TO GET ALL THE MISCELLANEOUS PLANS AND POLICIES REVIEWED, REFRESHED, SIMPLIFIED AND BACK UNDER CONTROL This allows our clients to deal face-to-face with specific specialists and strips out layers of costs as clients aren’t paying several different companies for the solution they receive. n Risk Warning: With investing your capital is at risk

How are we different to other financial advisers and financial services?

My vision has always been simple – to build the most trusted and prominent wealth management firm in the Ribble Valley.

We are able to offer the financial strength, infrastructure and resources of a large multinational financial powerhouse, with access to world class systems and research.

But at the same time we can provide the personable, quality service of an owner managed, local business.

Raymond James Investment Services 8 Berry Lane Longridge, Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

LET’S GO! Whatever you’re planning for 2021, the new MINI Countryman has adventure at its core. It’s also a versatile, high performer with great looks, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

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ands up if you fancy an adventure in 2021 – the chance to pack more into your life? After so many stop-start months, we all need to unshackle ourselves from restriction and drive things forward.

So, if you’re onboard with the quest for greater freedom and more fun, take a closer look at the ‘new’ MINI Countryman – a compact, luxury motor with adventure at its very core.

The original MINI Countryman SUV was the first vehicle of its type to be launched

by BMW under the MINI marque, back in 2010. With a facelift or two along the way it has certainly stood the test of time.

But this is the ‘new’ MINI Countryman, the biggest (4.3 metres long) and most versatile member of the MINI family, now with an updated design, additions to the equipment range and some truly innovative

technology.Space,versatility,functionality and ride comfort – you’ll find it all right here.

Choose from 134bhp and 176bhp petrol engines, a 176bhp diesel and a 217bhp plug-in hybrid. The latter combines a three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, emits just 40g/km of CO2 and returns upwards of 166mpg in official tests. It also features four-wheel drive and can travel for up to 38 miles using electric power alone – so the school run

or weekday commute might not require the use of petrol!

There are seven model variants and highlights galore. Take the distinctive front design with newly-designed radiator grille, LED headlights and LED fog lights now as standard, LED rear lights in a Union Jack design, new body finishes including the spectacular Piano Black exterior option, light alloy wheels, new digital dash display with 5-inch colour screen, 8.8-inch information screen, new range of leather trims and interior surfaces and an extended range of original MINI accessories.

Externally, the front section has a precisely modified design with the new structure of the bumper covering, now entirely in body finish, ensuring a clear-cut and high-quality appearance. The redesigned radiator grille has the signature hexagonal contours and is surrounded by a slim, one-piece chrome frame.

Adaptive LED headlights with variable light distribution and matrix function for high beam are available, providing bend lighting which automatically adapts to the traffic and weather conditions.The headlights also feature an automatic selective dip function for the high beam, which can be activated and deactivated independently of each other and adapted to the situation on the road at speeds of over 43mph.

A re-designed bumper trim adds to the

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contemporary look and upright rear lights with a chrome frame pay homage to the origins of the British brand. Personal choices are limitless. It’s a case of create your own car. There are also two new body colours – White Silver metallic and Sage Green metallic.

The aforementioned and eye-catching ‘Piano Black’ exterior option allows for a high-gloss black finish on the headlight surrounds, rear lights, radiator grille and side scuttles, door handles and the model lettering on the luggage compartment lid.

Additional identification features in highgloss black are available from the range of Original MINI Accessories, including the MINI logo and the Cooper S and ALL4 inscriptions in Piano Black. Matching exterior mirror caps and side scuttles with a greyblack flag pattern in Night Jack are also available for retrofit.

You can have alloy wheels in 16, 17 or 19-inch and, with three fully-fledged rear folding seats (40:20:40 split) storage can rise to 1390 litres. That’s a lot of room!

A permanently fitted SIM card enables use of intelligent emergency call with automatic detection of vehicle location and accident severity, as well as MINI TeleServices. The navigation pack includes a wide range of MINI Connected digital services, access to the Real Time Traffic Information service as well as the internet platform MINI Online and preparation for Apple CarPlay.

MINI Connected can be used to send navigation destinations from the smartphone to the vehicle. The mobile phone connection also means that the vehicle’s navigation map is updated automatically. With Navigation Plus, the new MINI Countryman is always online, with seamless integration of the voice assistant Amazon Alexa.

The new MINI Countryman is a versatile, five-seater Sport Activity Vehicle with great looks and performance. And, as big as it may feel on the inside, this is still a MINI through and through.

So, wherever you’re planning to go –

a glide through the town, a trip down the motorway or a coast through the hills, you’ll find pleasure at every turn.

Oh, nearly forgot to mention there’s a three-year warranty on all new MINIs giving you complete protection for almost every eventuality.

Go on, what’s stopping you? n

Bowker Blackburn MINI Trident Way, Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274333 bowkerblackburnmini.co.uk @BowkerMINI @BowkerMotorGroup BowkerMotorGroup @BowkerMINI TM

LUXURY FINE DINING AT HOME 2020 has been a challenging year for the hospitality sector, but Northcote ensured their customers could still enjoy restaurant quality creations, writes Gail Bailey.

Photography: Kirsten Platt and Allen Markey

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ichelin-starred Northcote, a Stafford Collection hotel headed up by Lisa GoodwinAllen, has long been known for its adventurous menus and high-class cuisine. During these difficult times the team have worked hard to ensure customers could continue to experience fabulous five-star gourmet menus in the comfort of their own home.

October saw the launch of Northcote’s Home Delivery and Click and Collect Gourmet Boxes, and following their success, the deliciously festive Winter Box was introduced. which proved equally popular.

The highly sought-after boxes use the finest seasonal ingredients and are lovingly prepared and packaged, complete with simple instructions for diners to easily finish off and enjoy at their own dinner tables.

I HAVE BEEN ABSOLUTELY BLOWN AWAY

BY THE DEDICATION OF THE TEAM HERE AT NORTHCOTE THEY REALLY HAVE GONE ABOVE AND BEYOND IN THESE DIFFICULT TIMES – IT HAS BEEN EMOTIONAL BUT WORTH IT! “Northcote, as with many other businesses in our industry have been forced to close their doors,” says Northcote Managing Director Craig Bancroft. “The hospitality sector has always been resilient, and over the past 36 years, myself and the team have come through some huge challenges, but 2020 has been the biggest challenge so far. There have been tough decisions as you await the next government announcement, but Northcote has, and will, see this through to when we can open the doors fully for all our guests to return. In the meantime, the Gourmet Boxes are a way we can bring a taste of Northcote to your home.”

Lisa and the team worked hard to sort everything logistically and were full steam ahead within weeks. Sustainable packaging

food&drink

that could keep food at the right temperature was sourced, efficient packaging so dishes would not be damaged in transportation was also sourced along with additional fridge space, and recipe instructions were created for diners. Lisa, supported by her senior chefs, spent time developing menus which were inspired by Northcote dishes, but which could be perfectly cooked at home.

“Lisa wanted to make sure she brought a true reflection of Northcote to the Gourmet Boxes, and she is as you would expect, a perfectionist overseeing every box that left Northcote!” adds Craig.

The Gourmet Boxes have been a huge success with the restaurant producing up to 250 a week initially with this rising to 500 leading up to Christmas: “It’s been a real team effort in making this work,” says Craig.

“We are in a Covid world and the reality is that most of our staff are furloughed. There is a small team looking after Northcote and managing the Gourmet Box operation.

Led by Lisa, along with other members of the Senior Management Team, plus key members of the brigade brought in to assist. It’s all hands on deck for three full days each week as they pack these wonderful boxes – there has been some

midnight oil burned for sure!”

Given their success once restrictions are lifted, and Northcote are able to welcome guests back into their hotel and restaurant, they plan to continue with the Northcote Gourmet Boxes.

Some examples of the mouth-watering dishes included in the boxes have been

THE GOURMET BOXES HAVE BEEN A HUGE SUCCESS WITH THE RESTAURANT PRODUCING UP TO 250 A WEEK INITIALLY WITH THIS RISING TO 500 IN THE WEEKS LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS

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starters such as warm juniper cured salmon, pickled cucumber tartar and butter sauce, sweet white onion soup, Lancashire bomb cheese raviolis and chestnut crumble.

With main courses to delve into including Waterford Farm salt aged beef, marrowbone crust, smoked pancetta, mushroom Bourguignon, before ending on a sweet note with the very festive Valrhona chocolate ‘Yule’ log, smoked nuts and salted milk ice.

Christmas Day Feast for Four and New Year’s Eve Celebration Boxes for Two have been hugely popular. In the New Year there will be new Winter Boxes available, with all the details on the website, and the option to sign up and be first to receive all the details.

“I have been absolutely blown away by the dedication of the team here at Northcote,” says Craig. “They really have gone above and beyond in these difficult times – it has been emotional but worth it!”

If you are interested in trying a Home Gourmet Box you are advised to book early! n

northcote.com

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EXPECT THE BEST Pavoni & Co is a fabulous new restaurant in Longridge specialising in Neapolitan style pizzas, with a twist. Gail Bailey meets owner Marino Falasca to find out more. Photography: Kirsten Platt

O

n entering Pavoni & Co you immediately feel at ease and ready to unwind in the relaxed and stylish atmosphere created by Marino Falasca and his team.

Marino has always been involved in the restaurant sector and even at 10 years old was helping in the kitchen of Checco’s Great Harwood where his father is the owner: “It was my grandmother Maria Pavone who taught me how to cook. She helped to open the first Tiggis restaurant in Preston, and I learnt how to make the

most amazing pasta sauces and meatballs from her,” Marino says.

Aside from learning under the watchful eye of his grandmother, Marino is a self-taught chef who has worked in top Michelin-starred restaurants including L’Enclume in the Lake District, Moor Hall and also for Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire.

“I take a huge pride in the quality of food we create here and want an evening at Pavoni & Co to be about the whole culinary experience, but with a relaxed and informal vibe,” says Marino.

Neapolitan pizzas are the restaurants speciality dishes. Baked in a wood fired pizza oven that was built exclusively for Pavoni & Co in Naples, pizzas are made from dough that takes three days to ferment and are light and airy in texture.

“Our signature pizza is the Bowland, which

takes inspiration from local surroundings.

It is made with San Marzano tomatoes which are the most famous plum tomatoes to come out of Italy. They are grown in the rich volcanic soil at the base of Mount Vesuvius, which gives them a sweet flavour and low acidity. The pizza is then topped with local smoked duck, Garstang blue cheese, walnuts and truffle oil – I take inspiration from walking my dog through the forest of Bowland.”

The menu is varied and has a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine – it includes a glossary of all unusual ingredients detailing where the food comes from, how it is harvested and why it makes a dish so flavoursome.

Pavoni & Co has two floors, downstairs the open kitchen takes centre stage with a stunning black marble island and a glowing wood oven. The second floor has dramatic steel beams, a bar and an intimate private dining room. In the evening the low lighting, music, fine wines and fabulous food make it the ultimate place to relax, unwind and enjoy good times. During the day it is equally chilled, and people can pop in for a lunch, coffee and cake – even your four-legged friend is welcome and there is the added bonus of an outside space too.

Pavoni & Co is, as Marino says, the perfect place for supper, dinner, brunch or lunch: “We love our community in Longridge, local businesses have supported and worked alongside us to open – the whole town has been positive about our arrival.” n

Pavoni & Co 2-4 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3JA 01772 782947 info@pavoni.co www.pavoni.co

Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside it is the perfect stop for a hearty breakfast, delicious brunch or heavenly coffee and cake.

Located on several public footpaths and bridleways in the beautiful local landscape and surrounding villages of West Bradford and Waddington and with on site parking, it is the ideal for walkers, cyclists and four legged friends.

Open 9am-2pm Wednesday-Sunday | 01200 423523 Three Rivers Woodland Park, Eaves Hall Lane, West Bradford, Clitheroe BB7 3JG /thewoodlandcafe

Now Re-opened

To all our followers, thank you for your support over the years.

Julie, Patrick and Team www.thecartfordinn.co.uk T: 01995 670166 E: office@thecartfordinn.co.uk Cartford Lane, Little Eccleston, Lancashire, PR3 0YP

It’s not a secret anymore David!

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WITH LOVE FROM ME TO YOU! Victor Yu creates a stunning box of some of his signature dishes for you to make and enjoy in the safety of your own home. Simon Smith shares his Yu to You experience

crispy prawn and lobster wontons were ready in about 12 to 15 minutes and honestly, we were transported back to the restaurant with amazing flavours and textures – succulent chicken, tender juicy ribs and amazing wontons all packed with authentic Chinese flavours.

I

have been delighted to see the enterprise of local restaurateurs producing food boxes for us to enjoy at home! Having decided to take the plunge, it felt almost like Christmas day when a box of goodies arrived from Yu Copster Green, one of my favourite restaurants!

The packaging was robust and once inside it was obvious that a huge amount of preparation and care had gone in to preparing this feast for us! Environmentally friendly insulation and cooling sachets ensured it reached us in perfect condition.

At first there did seem to be an awful lot of different packets and pots but the clear and precise menu card soon helped us put it all in order with nine different menu items all clearly labelled with contents and which dish they belonged to. A thorough reading of the cooking instructions and setting of oven temperatures really was the important part, and the equipment required was basic.

So off we went, three starter courses, bamboo chicken, salt and pepper ribs and

IT WAS SO GOOD I ALMOST DIDN’T BELIEVE I HAD COOKED IT! ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! Our next course, our favourite aromatic duck and pancakes – this needed 25 minutes in the oven wrapped in foil. With a little planning, it was ready to serve when the starters were done, served with crispy fresh spring onion and cucumber, oozing with tangy Hoisin sauce. The box was for two people, but this was a generous portion and there was plenty of duck left over for a hungry, young man!

We had planned a little rest as there seemed lots of courses to go, the champagne

miso black cod needed 12 minutes and even came with a bamboo leaf to serve it on, drizzled with a little olive oil. It was so good I almost didn’t believe I had cooked it!

Absolutely fabulous!

Being at home, the wine was a crispy Albarino, which worked really well with the food but equally a cold beer or cider would have been delicious.

Onto the final leg and although the blackbean rib-eye appeared a little more complex, if you follow Victor’s instructions it was easy. There was also crispy chilli chicken just heated in the oven, microwaved or steamed jasmine rice and wok fried spicy vermicelli noodles with egg if you wish, and crispy, fresh vegetables, crunchy and delicious.

All the dishes tasted just as great as they would in the restaurant and I had a great feeling of achievement even though the chefs had done all the work – it was a gastronomic feast! What an amazing experience Yu to You – thank you! n Check out the Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest Yu to You box offering.

To order email: craig@yurestaurants.co.uk

Yu Copster Green 500 Longsight Road Copster Green, Blackburn BB1 9EU 01254 240665 yucopstergreen.co.uk /yucopstergreenrestaurant TM

/yucopstergreen

TAKEAWAY OPEN TUESDAY – SUNDAY 4.30PM TILL 9PM LINES OPEN FROM 3PM DAILY

AWARD WINNING CHINESE FOOD

TO TAKE H O M E AN D EN JOY IN A R E LA XE D A N D E ASY WAY VEGAN

BLACKBEAN – CHILLI, PEPPERS, GARLIC

VEGETABLE SPRING ROLLS £3.95

FILLET STEAK £14.50

CHICKEN £9.50

VEGETABLE GYOZA £5.50

CHAR SIU PORK £9.50

KING PRAWN £12.50

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI TOFU & OYSTER MUSHROOMS £5.95 SPICY SINGAPORE VERMICELLI, BEANSPROUTS, SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS, PEPPERS £8.50 SPICY MALAYSIAN VEGETABLE FRIED RICE £8.50 GLUTEN AND DAIRY FREE

MARKET FRESH FISH FILLET OF SEABASS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £16.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI KING PRAWNS £12.50 WOK SEARED KING PRAWNS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £14.50

SALT & PEPPER WILD MUSHROOMS £5.95

CLASSIC HONG KONG SATAY

STIR FRIED PAK CHOI, SPRING ONION, GINGER, CHILLI £5.95

CHICKEN £9.50

KING PRAWN £12.50

STEAK SATAY £14.50

DUCK SATAY £12.50

STIR FRIED KING PRAWNS, PAK CHOI, GARLIC, CHILLI £12.50

SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN £9.50

SOUPS

KING PRAWN £12.50

CRISPY CHILLI CHICKEN £9.50

CHICKEN & SWEETCORN £5.50

PORK £9.50

CRISPY CHILLI STEAK £14.50

HOT & SOUR SOUP £5.50

SALT & PEPPER

SMALL EATS

TRIPLE COOKED HAND CUT CHIPS £4.50 CRISPY SQUID £7.95

PRAWN CRACKERS £2.50

CHICKEN £9.50

CRISPY DUCK ROLLS £5.50 CHICKEN SPRING ROLLS £5.50 SALT & PEPPER CHICKEN WINGS £5.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI RIBS £7.50 SWEET STICKY CANTONESE RIBS £7.50 PORK CHIVE WAR TIP DUMPLINGS £5.95 SESAME PRAWN TOAST & SEAWEED £6.95 1/4 CRISPY DUCK & PANCAKES, CUCUMBER, HOI SIN SAUCE £14.50 CHARLIE YU’S (DAD’S) FAMOUS CURRY & CLASSICS KING PRAWN CURRY £11.50

CHICKEN CURRY £9.50

CHICKEN CHOW MEIN £9.50

SPECIAL CHOW MEIN £12.50

COCKTAILS LYCHEE MARTINI

COSMOPOLITAN

PORN STAR MARTINI

SMALL (EQUIVALENT TO 2 COCKTAILS) £12.00 LARGE (EQUIVALENT TO 4 COCKTAILS) £20.00

CHICKEN FRIED RICE £9.50

FROZEN DAIQUIRI

SPECIAL FRIED RICE – CHICKEN, KING PRAWN, CHAR SIU £10.50

BEER

MELON £8.50

1 LARGE BEER £4.00

STRAWBERRY £8.50

3 LARGE BEERS £12.00

W H Y NO T E NJ OY A M I DW EEK TAKE AWAY RELAX AND LET THE TALENTED CHEFS COOK YOUR SUPPER Yu Copster Green 500 Longsight Road Copster Green BB1 9EU

01254 240665 www.yucopstergreen.co.uk

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entertainment

ON SCREEN

Alice Burns takes a look at the latest blockbusters, readyto-stream films, Netflix exclusives and DVD releases

NEWS OF THE WORLD Release Date: 1st January Director: Paul Greengrass Starring: Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel, Elizabeth Marvel, Mare Winningham and Ray McKinnon Certificate:

Taking place five years after the Civil War, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd (Tom Hanks) now works as a wandering storyteller travelling from town to town, telling great tales of conquests and beasts, queens and catastrophes. As he travels through the Texan plains, he comes across a small orphan, Johanna, taken and raised by the Kiowa people. He is instructed to return her to her biological aunt and uncle, much against Johanna’s will. Along the way they face a perilous journey across the plains in the unrelenting wilderness, with both natural and human obstacles, all in the search for a place they could both call home. n

MIDSOMMAR Release Date: 3rd January Director: Ari Aster Starring: Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, Vilhelm Blomgren, Ellora Torchia and Archie Madekwe Certificate:

This folk-horror tells the story of a young American couple, Dani and Christian, who are on the brink of falling apart in their four-year relationship. When a family tragedy brings them together again, they decide to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a remote village in Sweden to partake in a traditional folk festival that only happens once every 90 years. The stunning Scandinavian landscape and rolling hills soon reveal a darker secret, when this idyllic rural retreat full of cultural learning unnervingly descends into a violent chasm of visceral bodily sacrifice and bloodshed. n

SHIRLEY

DVD

Release Date: 4th January Director: Josephine Decker Starring: Elizabeth Moss, Odessa Young, Michael Stuhlbarg and Logan Lerman Certificate:

This American biographical drama tells the story of Shirley Moss, the renowned horror writer who finds an unexpected source of inspiration from a couple of young newlyweds, Fred and Rose, who move into their family home as lodgers. Renowned for her morose nature, Shirley is magnetised by Rose and stops at nothing to exploit the open nature of her young guest. Moss’ husband, Stanley, struggles to maintain his academic dominance over his new protégé, Fred and it is not long before fireworks begin to erupt in a volatile house of sparring personalities and twisted stories. n

arts&culture

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GOOD READ Lauren Molyneux curls up with a good book to review a latest best seller

The Illumination of Ursula Flight Anna-Marie Crowhurst Welcomed into the world under the light of a bad-luck comet, Ursula Flight has an interesting destiny. Following her father’s teachings, she’s skilled in the art of storytelling, and dreams of becoming a famous playwright, or an actress ‘pon the stage.

Forced into an arranged marriage, which she must honour to fulfil her family duty, she clings to the hope that one day she might escape and be reunited with her true love.

As Ursula finally finds the pathways to fulfilling her desires, both on and off the stage, she’s flung amidst the dizzying, dazzling world of actors and aristocrats, playwrights and paupers. But being born into an era when quick-witted and clever women are to be feared rather than celebrated, she soon finds herself facing new challenges which seek to repress her spirit and send her back to the country.

As a new take on the feminist text, The Illumination of Ursula Flight tells the charming story of a young girl who will defy all odds in order to achieve her near-impossible dream. Both uplifting and empowering, Ursula’s tale is at once a beautifully constructed piece of escapism, whilst also offering a story of substance and learning.

With a witty, charismatic young female protagonist, the novel offers an interesting approach to the historical genre, ultimately casting its women at the front and centre and shining a light on their suffering, their burdens, their strength, creativity and character.

Anna-Marie Crowhurst takes on the coming-of-age novel and revives it with a fresh new approach.

The story she tells is completely original, utterly captivating, and unlike anything I have ever read, making the pages turn more and more quickly until the book’s cathartic end is reached.

TOP PICK

With a wonderful ability to weave a narrative, Crowhurst creates characters who appear entirely real – fully fleshed out, with their own histories, morals and goals.

Overall, Ursula’s world becomes a difficult one to leave behind, and readers can expect to experience a whole spectrum of emotion whilst enjoying this comedy, coming-of-age, tragedy, period drama. Once the first page has been turned, you’ll be enveloped by a novel that does not easily relinquish its hold.

Readers, be warned! n

L

ancashire born artist Michael Hunter is enjoying international success with his work that is constantly evolving.

Michael experienced a particularly productive spell during lockdown, though he says creative periods can occur at any time: “I have moments when I start a new piece or go to something I’ve been working on previously, and I can get into a creative zone where nothing else matters. I enjoy times like those so much as I switch off from normal day to day life.”

ABSTRACT ART GOES DIGITAL Having his work in galleries and private collections in the US and Europe, artist and photographer Michael Hunter finds inspiration from texture, colour and music to create stunning digital collages

Having graduated in 1994 with a Fine Art degree from UCLan at Cumbria College of Art and Design, Michael has persevered to enjoy the success he is seeing today. Like many artists, he had dreams of becoming a professional, but in 2000 he changed tack and started a successful taxi business. Often on long drives he would think about his art: “I would be driving in the middle of the night along a quiet motorway listening to music, and I would start to think about my art again and how much I missed it.”

In 2012, following a spell of not producing any work, Michael once again started to create

arts&culture

147

art and slowly began to develop his style: “I had started out as a traditional artist.

I love the outdoors so I would take my sketch book and paint and draw landscapes.

I spend a lot of time on the coast and I get a lot of inspiration there.”

Initially inspired by the landscape works of British painter David Bomberg, Michael’s style began to evolve: “Bomberg’s vivid and expressive style appealed to me at the time.”

More recently, Michael has looked to the work of Japanese sumi ink artist Toko Shinoda as a source of inspiration: “I particularly like the way she applies confident brush strokes in a spontaneous manner, and like myself, she is influenced by nature.”

Over time, Michael’s work has developed into a fully abstract style. He recalls moving from painting and drawing to digital collages: “I had always loved photography and I would go out and about with my camera. I realised I could combine painting and photography, blending textures, marks and colours into compositions. When I’m working, music has a large part to play and can sometimes dictate the way a piece is formed. There is something special and exciting about creating through feelings and emotion. It is a deeply personal process. Abstract expressionism for me has endless possibilities.”

Having travelled to art fairs all over the UK in previous years, Michael also has many followers on Instagram and has sold his work to collectors in America and Europe. He has exhibited in prestigious galleries in London and in cities throughout the UK, and he also works with interior designers who appreciate his unique, contemporary style. His work has also been featured in a prestigious UK interiors magazine.

“My art has been very much a journey

for me,” explains Michael. “Just like any other artist who may have canvasses stacked up in a studio waiting to be finished, I have digital files that I have started that I can go back to. I always save them so I can revisit them, often working on them with a new enthusiasm and with new ideas.”

Michael, a member of the Guild Society of Artists, produces limited editions printed on fine art paper using high quality pigmented inks. These are hand signed and come with a certificate of authentication: “These would be what I would call my ‘gallery’ work.

They are more collectable and produced in low edition numbers.”

He also produces open edition ‘poster prints’ for those who want a piece of art at a more affordable price.

Michael feels that he remains true to his traditional artistic background: “There is sometimes a misconception about digital art in that it isn’t a true art medium, and that it can’t possibly be an expressive process in the same way as painting or drawing. However, for me personally, every piece is filled with passion and emotion. I hope my work moves and inspires those who enjoy viewing it just as much as I have been moved and inspired to create it.” n

michaelhunterartist.com @michael.hunter.artist @millbrook_galleries_art

A Ribble Valley teacher has recently published two books and is currently writing the final one as part of her Pendle Witch Trilogy

A

busy mum of two who had always dreamed of writing a children’s book, has risen to the challenge having just had a book published in October – the second in her Pendle Witch Trilogy.

Rachel Lopiccolo, who lives in the heart of the Ribble Valley near Waddington, is a former accountant who retrained as a primary school teacher.

FOR YEARS I WOULD CARRY A NOTEBOOK AROUND WITH ME, NOTING DOWN DIFFERENT IDEAS, LITTLE SNIPPETS AND IMAGINARY CHARACTERS “Since a young age I have always loved writing stories. For years I would carry a notebook around with me, noting down different ideas, little snippets and imaginary characters.

PENDLE WITCH TRILOGY “My partner Marc is a music teacher and he has written a successful book – he said to me, ‘If I can do it, so can you’.

So, he set me a challenge to write a book by the end of the year,” recalls Rachel, who works at Waddington Primary School.

Having been interested in the story of the Pendle witches, Rachel penned The Curse of the Pendle Witch in 2019 for her daughter, and she went on to write The Betrayal of the Pendle Witch, which was published by Marc’s publishing company at the beginning of October.

“Marc’s books are very different from mine – they are adventure stories that link into the songs he writes. As a music teacher, he tells children to follow their dreams – his books are about children with ordinary super-powers!”

Rachel’s first book is set in the present and is about two sisters who find a mysterious box, which turns out to be cursed. Her second book is set in 1612 during the lead-up to the Pendle witch trials. It features two fictional girls as the

central characters, who fear being accused of witchcraft. The book tracks their friendship as they attempt to avoid being arrested by the local magistrate.

I TELL CHILDREN HOW GOOD IT FEELS TO WRITE. IT’S ALL ABOUT DAYDREAMING AND IMAGINATION “When I started writing the book my daughter was quite an advanced reader and she loved it. I was aiming at an age group from eight up to 12 years of age, but I have had lots of adults saying they have really enjoyed them too.”

Rachel’s book covers have been illustrated

by Bolton-based Andrew Warman, who also contributed towards Marc’s book: “Marc’s books are beautiful, so I was keen for Andrew to be involved. He understood exactly the sort of thing I wanted,” says Rachel, who has resided in the Ribble Valley for eight years, having always lived close to Pendle Hill.

“I am still pinching myself, I can’t believe I have actually written two books and I am now working on the third!”

Since writing the first two books Rachel has been involved in a number of Zoom assemblies at various local schools, in which she encourages pupils to write down their dreams and ideas on paper: “I tell them how good it feels to write. It’s all about daydreaming and imagination and I read extracts from my books.”

Rachel has just started writing her third book, which aims to tie the storyline of the first two stories together. The final in the Pendle Witch Trilogy is due to be launched around Easter 2021. n

The Curse of the Pendle Witch and The Betrayal of the Pendle Witch are available at Number 10 in Clitheroe and on the website: ordinarysuperpowers.co.uk

£315,000

and WC leading off. On the first floor are two double bedrooms and a third bedroom/study, a large bathroom/WC and useful separate utility. Cottage style garden to the front and a walled patio garden to the rear. Gas central heating and double glazing. No onward chain. EPC Rating E Offering a first class choice

of homes on the

South Fylde

01253 795555 johnardern.com

1 East Cliffe Lytham £315,000

Royal Lytham St Annes 4 Seafield House 23 Seafield Road Lytham £450,000 Royal Lytham

St Annes 4 Seafield House 23 Seafield Road Lytham £450,000

Tastefully appointed end terraced period house situated in the heart of Lytham, within close walking distance to Lytham Green, the town centre shops, cafes and amenities. The spacious accommodation comprises; on the ground floor is a lounge with stone dressed bay window, double opening glazed doors leading to the dining room. Family dining kitchen with cloakroom and WC leading off. On the first floor are two double bedrooms and a third bedroom/study, a large bathroom/WC and useful separate utility. Cottage style garden to the front and a walled patio garden to the rear. Gas central heating and double glazing. No onward chain. EPC Rating E

This outstanding 1st floor apartment is situated in this unique development known as Seafield House, being just yards from Lytham Green with the Ribble Estuary beyond. Lytham with it’s superb tree lined shopping facilities and town centre amenities is close by together with Lowther Gardens with its cafe, theatre and gardens, also within a short stroll away. Seafield House is a stunning Grade II listed building which was carefully converted approx 11 years ago into eight luxury individual apartments enjoying a highly sought after location. Briefly comprising; spacious lounge with balcony, dining room/bedroom three, modern dining kitchen, utility room, master bedroom with en suite shower room/wc, 2nd double bedroom and shower room/WC. Gas central heating This outstanding 1st floor apartment is situated in this unique development known as Seafield House, beingglazing. just yards from Lytham GreenBwith the Ribble Estuary beyond. Lytham with it’s superb and double Garage.

EPC Rating tree lined shopping facilities and town centre amenities is close by together with Lowther Gardens with its cafe, theatre and gardens, also within a short stroll away. Seafield House is a stunning Grade II listed building which was carefully converted approx 11 years ago into eight luxury individual apartments enjoying a highly sought after location. Briefly comprising; spacious lounge with balcony, dining room/bedroom three, modern dining kitchen, utility room, master bedroom with en suite shower room/wc, 2nd double bedroom and shower room/WC. Gas central heating and double glazing. Garage. EPC Rating B

£339,950

four bedrooms but the fourth bedroom has been incorporated into the master bedroom but could easily be returned to its former bedroom use if required. On the ground floor is an entrance hallway, cloaks/WC leading off, lounge and dining room, modern dining kitchen and conservatory. 1st floor master bedroom with en suite shower room/WC, two further double bedrooms and bathroom/WC. Gardens front and rear. Garage.

Offering EPC Rating Ca first class choice

of homes on the

South Fylde

01253 795555 johnardern.com

8 Lima Road St Annes £339,950

1 York Road St Annes £299,500

1 York Road St Annes £299,500

This very spacious modern semi detached house was originally constructed by Kensington Developments Ltd enjoying a superb highly residential location at the junction of Lima Road and Beauclerk Road with views looking over ROYAL LYTHAM & ST ANNES GOLF COURSE. The property has been the subject of considerable modernisation and enlargement of which an early inspection will confirm. Originally the house was built with four bedrooms but the fourth bedroom has been incorporated into the master bedroom but could easily be returned to its former bedroom use if required. On the ground floor is an entrance hallway, cloaks/WC leading off, lounge and dining room, modern dining kitchen and conservatory. 1st floor master bedroom with en suite shower room/WC, two further double bedrooms and bathroom/WC. Gardens front and rear. Garage.

EPC Rating C

This spacious period end of terraced house stands in spacious corner lawned gardens with established privet hedging and has excellent family accommodation including a teenagers suite on the second floor. The property lies adjacent to Clifton Drive South and being within just a five minutes stroll into the centre of St Annes square with its comprehensive shopping facilities and town centre amenities. Perfect opportunity for development into 2/3 mews houses subject to planning consent. On the ground floor are three reception rooms, cloaks/WC and kitchen. On the 1st floor are three double bedrooms and a bathroom/WC together with a 2nd separate WC. On the 2nd floor is a Lounge/4th bedroom, a 5th bedroom with en suite shower room/WC. Gas central This spacious period end of terraced house stands in spacious corner lawned gardens with established has excellent family heating andprivet doublehedging glazing.andGarage.

EPC Rating E accommodation including a teenagers suite on the second floor. The property lies adjacent to Clifton Drive South and being within just a five minutes stroll into the centre of St Annes square with its comprehensive shopping facilities and town centre amenities. Perfect opportunity for development into 2/3 mews houses subject to planning consent. On the ground floor are three reception rooms, cloaks/WC and kitchen. On the 1st floor are three double bedrooms and a bathroom/WC together with a 2nd separate WC. On the 2nd floor is a Lounge/4th bedroom, a 5th bedroom with en suite shower room/WC. Gas central heating and double glazing. Garage. EPC Rating E

John Ardern & Company Ltd 6 Park Street Lytham Lancashire FY8 5LU

01253 795555 johnardern.com

John Ardern & Company Ltd 6 Park Street Lytham Lancashire FY8 5LU

01253 795555 johnardern.com

PROPERTY SHOWCASE SH

OW

HO

ME

NO W

OP EN

THE WINDSOR AT OAK HILL RISE £695,000 GARSTANG GOLF CLUB PR3 1YE (Stamp duty saving: £24,750, including developer contribution)

GUIDE £850,000 STOCKBRIDGE LAITHE THORNTON-IN-CRAVEN, SKIPTON (Stamp duty saving: £15,000)

The Windsor is a five-bedroomed detached home. The interior layout comprises an open plan kitchen/family area as well as a separate lounge.

There are four double bedrooms, all with en-suite, as well as a master suite.

This stunning development has been built by Baxter Homes, who have established an enviable reputation for quality, in this beautiful location, overlooking the fairways of Garstang Golf Club.

A truly delightful family residence in a unique detached barn conversion, in a most sought after location set in spectacular scenery. Close to Skipton with excellent rail links to Leeds and London. This fantastic detached rural property has spacious living accommodation with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, three reception rooms, spacious garage and ample parking, large gardens, beamed vaulted ceilings, solid oak wood floors, under floor heating, solid oak double glazed windows and stone flagged floors. No forward chain.

baxterhomes.co.uk

pad-4-sale.co.uk

THE OLD DAIRY OFFERS OVER £535,000 THORNLEY-WITH-WHEATLEY (Stamp duty saving: £15,000)

WALLED GARDEN WOODFOLD HALL, MELLOR (Stamp duty saving: £15,000)

A highly attractive and quirky conversion of the highest standard and fitted with the latest energy-efficient technologies, this former dairy is set in a lovely semi-rural location within an AONB, yet just a short drive from Longridge and motorway access. Incorporating a high spec dining kitchen, three bedrooms and a bright and spacious lounge, there is also a large balcony area for outdoor entertaining with views out to Beacon Fell, Parlick and Fairsnape.

A superb and beautifully presented detached house in a secluded location on the exclusive and private Woodfold Park Estate in Mellor. This four/five bedroomed property is a meticulously maintained family home. The accommodation is set over four levels, with mature gardens and grounds including a paddock of approximately two acres and additional woodland of approximately four acres, available by separate negotiation.

abarnett.co.uk

fineandcountry.com

£975,000

property

153

A selection of stunning properties across the Ribble Valley and Lancashire illustrating some of the stamp duty savings that can be made* *Stamp duty savings relate to the reduction to 0% as part of the government’s stamp duty holiday. Guidelines suggest that buyers will need to have had an offer accepted soon in order to take advantage of stamp duty savings, which are applicable if a purchase is completed before 31/03/2021

THE OLD STABLES GARSTANG ROAD, CHIPPING (Stamp duty saving: £15,000)

£525,000

THE OXFORD LIFESTYLE BARROW (Stamp duty saving: £8,249)

£364,995

A rare opportunity to purchase this charming fully renovated four-bedroom barn conversion, nestled within the countryside with stunning far reaching views. Located in a highly attractive and peaceful setting in the much sought after rural village of Chipping, the property is steeped in character throughout with original wooden beams, bespoke sash windows, exposed stone walls and a bespoke oak kitchen.

This stunning three-bedroom detached property is nestled in the rural Ribble Valley. The master bedroom is like a luxury hotel suite, featuring walk through wardrobes and a generous en-suite. The two other bedrooms also boast an en-suite, completing the impressive specification. Downstairs, there is an integrated garage and a substantial kitchen dining room opening out onto the garden and a separate lounge.

dewhursthomes.co.uk

redrow.co.uk

REPRESENTATIVE ONLY

REPRESENTATIVE ONLY

CHARNLEY FOLD £1,200,000 WESTBY ROAD, WESTBY PR4 3PN (Stamp duty saving: £15,000)

FROM £360,995 THE FORGE 5 THE HOLLIES, FORTON, LANCASHIRE (Stamp duty saving £8,049)

Charnley Fold is a spacious detached family house set in approximately 3/4 acre of landscaped gardens, enjoying open views, located a mile from Wrea Green and close to Lytham. The M55 motorway is also within easy access. Updated and extended by the present owners, it offers beautifully presented and versatile accommodation with the benefit of a self-contained one-bedroom granny flat annexe.

The ultimate, flexible five-bedroom family home. Internal floorplans can be configured to suit your lifestyle. You can choose vast open plan designs for entertaining, office space for home working or a useful playroom/teenage retreat. If you don’t need all five bedrooms you can reconfigure the first floor for added luxury to include en-suites to every bedroom or create an upstairs office or spacious dressing room.

johnardern.com

kingswoodhomes.uk.com/developments/the-hollies-forton

CHARNLEY COTTAGE PRESTON ROAD LONGRIDGE £399,950

Charnley Cottage is a delightful stone built barn conversion with approximately 2,350 sqft of living accommodation. This spacious family home comprises; entrance porch & hallway, cloakroom, utility, storage room, spacious lounge, study, dayroom, dining kitchen and dining room to the ground floor.

First floor master bedroom with four piece en suite bathroom and fitted furniture, two further double bedrooms, bedroom two was formerly two bedrooms, with fitted wardrobes and five piece family bathroom. Externally the property offers courtyard parking, side gardens and to the rear is a spacious enclosed garden.

68 DOUGLAS LANE GRIMSARGH £330,000

Four bed family home presented to a high standard. Situated on the desirable Redrow development & having easy access to Preston City Centre & motorway networks. The current vendors have recently re-designed and modernised using high quality fixtures & fitments. Highlights include: entrance hallway, cloakroom, lounge with modern gas fire & an open plan living dining kitchen. First floor two bedrooms with en suites & a family bathroom. Second floor two further bedrooms. Externally a double tarmacadam driveway to the front & to the rear a private garden. There is also a gate which leads to a blocked paved driveway & garage offering further parking for two vehicles. No Chain Delay.

Call for your free valuation today! Open 7 days a week, until 7pm weekdays.

Dewhurst Homes 347 Garstang Road Fulwood PR2 9UP 01772 788811 Garstang 01995 601814

Longridge 01772 783993

Penwortham 01772 748000

11 NEW ROW COTTAGES, KNOWLE GREEN £415,000

Exceptional double fronted four bed cottage recently renovated to a high specification in a truly idyllic countryside location. Offering style & the reassurance of a restored property, this stunning cottage retains much of its charm & original features. Underfloor heating to the ground floor, new oak internal doors & staircase & being fully rewired, re-plumbed & re-plastered the property comprises of lounge with feature fireplace & log burner, utility, dining kitchen with bespoke cabinets, granite worktops, integrated appliances & a further stone fireplace with log burner. First floor four bedrooms & a stylish family bathroom. Externally to the rear is parking for several vehicles & to the front a substantial gated garden.

www.dewhursthomes.co.uk

Kirkham 01772 682121

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rob@teacakedesign.com

teacakedesign.com

Sales & Lettings Throughout the Ribble Valley Pendle & West Craven

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01282 851000

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YOUR LOCAL ARCHITECT the pleasure in completing a design project

Ribble Valley-based Peter Hitchen Architects introduce the practice and witnessing the client’s delight and and their availability to assist with your architectural requirements, appreciation of the service we provide.

In addition, if necessary, we always no matter how small the project will leave stimulated and excited.

Our website is packed with completed projects of various categories and we encourage you to visit the site at peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk.You will also see our work in progress and lots of visuals to inspire.

I personally have over 30 years’ experience as a chartered architect working in the Ribble Valley and Lancashire and thoroughly enjoy

A

t Peter Hitchen Architects we place a big emphasis on beautiful and functional solutions which adhere to the main principles of our clients’ needs.

We utilise our expertise and skills to offer insightful solutions, which may not have been considered or even thought possible.

We offer a ‘no charge’ initial service to inspire and create confidence in moving forward. Our fees are then offered on a fixed basis working through the stages as necessary for each individual commission.

Our office has a fantastic youthful family ethos and there’s no appointment necessary as our door is always open to discuss your project. There is ample car parking on The Sidings in Whalley and we will be delighted to offer you a seat, demonstrate our design software, our previous projects and our knowledge with the aim that you

OUR WEBSITE IS PACKED WITH COMPLETED PROJECTS OF VARIOUS CATEGORIES AND YOU WILL ALSO SEE OUR WORK IN PROGRESS AND LOTS OF VISUALS TO INSPIRE

ensure that additional expertise is utilised through our specialist consultancy base as it’s key that our clients’ are aware of all the issues and potential costs which may be associated with their particular project.

It is essential to provide the appropriate service and supply the answers to your questions as the planning system is everevolving and ambiguous.

Providing clarity and maintaining our clients’ confidence and trust, we are your local architect and we welcome your custom.

Contact us now. n

Peter Hitchen Architects Ltd Marathon House, The Sidings Business Park Whalley BB7 9SE 01254 823885 info@peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk @PeterHitchenArchitects peterhitchen.architects

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine & Countr y Head Office 121 Park Lane , Mayfair, London W1K 7AG

WOLFEN MILL, CHIPPING FELLSIDE FARM, GRINDLETON

£1,350,000NEW PRICE - £1,350,000

ThisAexceptional stone built farmhouse OPPORTUNITY. with additional extension lies in a stunning elevated position withismagnificent degree views over the Ribble Valley countryside and will appeal to the SUPERBdetached LIFESTYLE BUSINESS Wolfen Mill Country Retreats a highly180 successful and very high-quality self-catering property equestrian enthusiast as the property includes approximately 9 acres of adjoining land and a large stable and garage block with stabling for three horses and garaging for six vehicles. Fellside Farm has been consisting of nine self-contained apartments set in idyllic surroundings in the Ribble Valley in rural Lancashire.

The business has won numerous finished with high quality fitments and fixtures together with a wealth of solid ash joinery and although contemporary in character it has retained most of its original beams and trusses.The internal awards andincludes has areception provenhallway, tracksitting record. subject tokitchen comprehensive refurbishment, thisfloor property isbedroom unique suite in the and has further accommodation room,Recently dining room, farmhouse and study/sitting room to the ground and master witharea en-suite shower room andscope dressing room, three bedrooms, family bathroom a secondconsent). lounge to the first floor, forfurther development (subject to and planning EPC – E whilst the adjoining annexe includes a shower room, sauna, games room and double garage. EPC Rating D

48 HOLLINS LANE, ACCRINGTON

£425,000

HUBBERSTY FARM,district BALDERSTONE Situated inFOLD a premier of Accrington and enjoying a pleasant elevated position overlooking Oak Hill Park, number 48 Hollins Lane is a£1,100,000 large Of stone-built interest to bothsemi-detached the agricultural and equine delightfully modern farmhouse withthe adjoining barn, garaging and approximately 31 acres of adjoining and agricultural housepurchaser; which ahas been located restored anddetached upgraded under current ownership.

This superb family homegardens extends to just land.

The property comprises a recently renovated and extended six bedroom farmhouse and detached garage block set in an acre of formal gardens together with a detached stone built barn benefitting from over 3000sqft with five/six bedrooms, extensive living accommodation, basement, private walled garden, with secure private garage and parking planning permission for its conversion to provide a five bedroom dwelling with a gross internal floor area in excess of 4,000 square feet. Hubbersty Fold Farm is perfectly positioned in a quiet rural location on by a quaint cobblestoned secluded driveway. retains original features alongside modern upgrades andwhere offersthere excellent theaccessed edge of the popular RibbleValley village of Balderstone, approximately 1.5This milesproperty from the A59, 5.5 milesmany from the centre of Blackburn, and 7.5 miles from the centre of Preston are a wide value for money.

EPCincluding – D rail services to Manchester.The M6 and M65 and the wider motorway network are all within easy reach of the property. EPC Rating D range of services and amenities

www.fineandcountry.com Scan me with your smart phone to view the listed properties online.

RIBBLE VALLEY HODDER VALLEY EAST LANCASHIRE

Whalley Whalley01254 01254828922 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine Fine& &Countr Countr y yHead HeadOffice Office121 121Park ParkLane Lane , Mayfair, , Mayfair, London London W1K W1K7AG 7AG

BEECH HOUSE, MELLOR FELLSIDE DEO FAVENTE, FARM, GRINDLETON MERECLOUGH

BROOK

£800,000

NEW PRICE - £1,350,000 £525,000

This Aexceptional lovely barn detached conversion stone which built is easily farmhouse maintained with additional andan occupies extension a very lies pleasant in a stunning semi-rural elevated location position on thewith outskirts magnificent of the 180 village degree of Mereclough views over inthe Cliviger, Ribble with Valley easy countryside access toto the andthe motorway will highest appealnetworks to the for Beech house is immaculately presented to exceptional level of finish.

This architect designed family home has been constructed equestrian Manchester enthusiast (M65/66 as the - 10property minutes)includes and Leeds approximately (M62 - 20 minutes), 9 acres ofand adjoining just 4.5land milesand from a large Burnley stable Town and Centre. garage block Recently withupgraded stabling for andthree improved horsesbyand thegaraging currentfor owners six vehicles. this delightful Fellsideresidence Farm has offers been internal standards.

Large open plan living, dining, kitchen, sitting room, impressive hallway with handmade bespoke walnut staircase, Four bedrooms, four finished accommodation with high quality of immense fitmentscharacter and fixtures with together many quality with afeatures wealth of throughout solid ash joinery and comprises; and although entrance contemporary porch, hallway, in character sitting room, it hasL-shaped retainedlounge most ofand its dining originalroom, beams kitchen, and trusses. utility, master The internal bedroom with enbathrooms.

Substantial and driveway.

Surrounded by presented landscaped gardens terrace on ashower substantial plot. accommodation suite sitting area, includes dressing reception areagarage andhallway, bathroom, sittinggated three room, further dining bedrooms room, farmhouse (two with kitchen en-suites), andbeautifully study/sitting box room/study room and to the family ground bathroom. floor and Demaster Favente bedroom lies inand gently suite sloping with en-suite gardens which include room and a large dressing sun patio room, and a three lawned further area bedrooms, family by open bathroom farmland, andinaaddition second lounge to THE a detached to QUALITY the first garage. floor, EPC whilst Rating theFINISH C adjoining annexe includes a showerFAMILY room, sauna, games room VIEWING ISbordered ESSENTIAL TO APPRECIATE AND OF THIS SUPERB HOME. EPCand - Cdouble garage. EPC Rating D

BANKS HOUSE, CHIPPING

£795,000

£1,100,000 £499,950 HUBBERSTY FAR HILLOCK FOLD FARM, FARM, BLACKSNAPE BALDERSTONE A delightful, detached period farmhouse on the outskirts of Chipping, significantly extended and improved by the current owners to offer superb Of An interest attractive to both attached the flexible agricultural stone built and farmhouse equine purchaser; dating back a delightfully to theThis 18th located century, modern situated detached in an idyllic farmhouse rural location with adjoining in the heart barn, ofgaraging the West and Pennine approximately providing 31 acres country of adjoining living gardens butfinished with andeasy agricultural access towns modernised and family accommodation. property has five bedrooms with three bathrooms - Moors, a wonderful living space to toland.

The and property amenities.

Ideal foraequestrian recently renovated use,and Far Hillock and extended Farmbeautifully includes six bedroom landmaintained extending farmhouse to and approximately detached garage 4 acres, block a large setyard in anarea acre and of formal a substantial gardens detached together stable with block a detached withspectacular three stoneloose built boxes barn benefitting and tack from in a very highcomprises standard.

A large private, south facing rear garden, split into useable areas opens to views of room, planning addition permission to a goodforsized conversion garden, whilst to provide the internal a fiveaccommodation bedroom dwelling comprises; with a gross hall,floor cloakroom, area in excess utility, lounge, of 4,000 dining square room, feet.dining Hubbersty kitchen, Fold rearFarm porch/pantry, is perfectlyfour positioned bedrooms in aand quiet two rural bathrooms. location on The Longridge Fell anditsthe surrounding Forest of Bowland.

EPC -entrance F internal theproperty edge of the enjoys popular superb Ribble panoramic Valley village viewsofofBalderstone, the West Pennine approximately Moors and 1.5 miles offersfrom plentythe ofA59, opportunity 5.5 milesfor from quiet theenjoyment centre of Blackburn, such as walking, and 7.5 cycling, milesand from sampling the centre localofproduce Prestoninwhere the area's therepublic are ahouses, wide range restaurants of services and and cafes. amenities Manchester including Cityrail Centre services is also to Manchester. within easyThe reach, M6 taking and M65 just 35 and minutes the wider frommotorway nearby Entwistle networkStation are allon within the Blackburn-Bolton-Manchester easy reach of the property. EPCline.

Rating EPCDRating E

www.fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com Scan Scan me me withwith youryour smart smart phone phone to view to view thethe listed listed properties properties online. online.

RIBBLE RIBBLE VALLEY VALLEY HODDER HODDER VALLEY VALLEY EAST EASTLANCASHIRE LANCASHIRE

Move Forwards in 2021 The Home of Beautiful Proper t y

Celebrating 2 years in the Ribble Valley

Longridge

Slaidburn

Impressive, double-fronted residence, packed with period features.

An impeccable detached farmhouse situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

A beautiful detached stone-built home believed to date back to 1846 and enjoying many period features. Improved and extended by the current owners to include a superb living-kitchen space,it is close to all Longridge amenities and convenient for road and motorway links.

Set in 3 acres of ground to include formal gardens and woodland, this beautifully-presented property is welcoming and spacious, and has far-reaching, panoramic views of the Forest of Bowland.

Whalley Asking Price ÂŁ750,000

A substantial property within walking distance of the village of Whalley.

Knowle Green OIEO ÂŁ950,000

An exceptionally-rare opportunity to acquire a rural development.

With a wealth of character features set in magnificent mature gardens, the potential buyer has the scope to alter, modernise and restore this four bedroom family home to its true potential.

This handsome property, thought to be part of a former mill owner’s house, offers 2,800 sq ft of internal accommodation.

In a sought-after location, this locally-renowned property comes with planning consent for Change of Use to form five bespoke, large residential dwellings set within 1.45 acres OTA of gardens, grounds and private driveways.

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW HOME As we start a new year with new goals, new projects and a brand new website – Zara Moon Architects take a look back at 2020 to review our key projects, approvals and transformations so you can be inspired to take on your own 2021 project

S

eventy per cent of ZMA’s projects are located on sensitive sites (greenbelt, open countryside, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Conservation Areas).

Some of our planning highlights of 2020 include obtaining planning approval for two bespoke homes for a family in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, at Roughlee Booth and obtaining planning approval for numerous green belt sites across Lancashire for bespoke luxury properties and obtaining planning approval for large property transformations and extensions within sensitive sites such as the AONB.

We have designed super homes, agricultural building conversions and commercial masterplans, a selection of which include the new home of Formby Football Club, the re-development of Brockhall Farm in Old Langho and our zero carbon affordable housing scheme in Accrington.

It is that time of year again when you might be reviewing what YOU want to achieve in 2021 in both your personal or business life.

Whether you want to move house, improve your existing home or tackle your own self-build project, your home needs to be a reflection of your family, lifestyle and personal taste.

We have all had to evolve during the events of 2020, this also includes your business or work-life.Your business premises may have had to adapt to function with the ongoing restrictions and restructuring. Business premises now, more than ever, need to respond to create healthy, balanced work environments that are sustainable and create workspaces to which employees enjoy going,

especially when our home and work-lives have become so interlinked.

While we are used to creating new homes for our clients, at ZMA we now have a new home – so visit our new website to find out more about what we do and how we help transform the sites, buildings and lives of our clients.

Contact a member of the team if you want to discuss your own project goals of 2021. n

Zara Moon Architects We Transform Sites, Buildings & Lives 13 New Market Street, Colne BB8 9BJ 01282 908440 info@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Be the best version of yourself At Oakhill we strive for the highest standards and our scholarship pupils make a highly valued contribution to the intellectual, sporting, musical and creative life of the School. We welcome applications at all levels from students who excel or show potential in any of these areas.

To apply or to book a socially distanced tour, please contact the School Registrar, Suzanne Spencer on 01254 823546 or email spencer.s@oakhillschool.co.uk

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