Live Ribble Valley Issue 126 Summer 21

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 6

LANDING THE THREE FISHES NIGEL HAWORTH EXCLUSIVE SUMMER GARDEN PARTIES GIN COCKTAILS ON THE WEST END STAGE MIA MCLOUGHLIN GETTING TOUGH ON CRIME NEW POLICE COMMISSIONER

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CONTENTS 12

F E AT U R E S 12 WELCOME RETURN Chef Nigel Haworth is set to work his magic on The Three Fishes at Mitton, transforming the pub into a place where diners can enjoy a refined yet simple menu.

64 GETTING TOUGH ON CRIME Sarah Varley meets the new Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, Andrew Snowden, who is taking a tough approach in order to cut crime.

116

SPECIAL SKILLSET Whalley-born Chris Henry talks to David Fearnhead about how he came to create his Neural Rewiring process and its life-changing potential to change the way we think.

120 LET THE FUN BE-GIN! Some of the best gins in the UK are produced by artisan makers here in the Ribble Valley, many of who use ultimately sustainable methods to create their award-winning spirits.

142

IN THE SPOTLIGHT A member of Kidz Bop, who have sold more than 21 million albums, Mia McLoughlin has travelled the world with her work singing, filming musical videos and appearing on stage in the West End.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER

15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 44 FASHION 50 HEALTH & BEAUTY 64 LIFESTYLE 96 EDUCATION 104 BUSINESS 112 MOTORS 120 FOOD & DRINK

120

140 ARTS & CULTURE 145 PROPERTY

142 Photography: Courtesy of Kidz Bop

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: Robin Lyndon, Roger Moore, Kirsten Platt and Sarah Valentine Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, David Fearnhead, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Anna Souroullas, Andrew Stachulski , Sarah Varley, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

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Live

Magazines Editor The Ribble Valley was positively buzzing when word got out that chef Nigel Haworth was once again taking over the Three Fishes at Mitton. Everyone is excited at the prospect of this world-renowned chef creating something really special when the pub re-opens – one thing’s for sure, he will fulfil his promise to create simple food that is ultimately delicious. You can read all about his plans in this, our double summer issue.

Also in this month’s Live Ribble Valley magazine, fell walker and historian Andrew Stachulski takes us on a wonderful summer walk following in the footsteps of Wainwright. He embarks on a famous Bowland crossing from Langden to Bleadsale, across the fells with glorious views along the way.

While the Ribble Valley is famed for its beautiful rural landscapes, being isolated in the countryside does have its problems. Sarah Varley meets Andrew Snowden, the new Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, who is hoping to create a robust rural task force dedicated to investigating crime in areas like the Ribble Valley.

We throw the spotlight on Longridge this month, taking a look at the busy high street and the many long-established, independent businesses as well as a number of new ones that all appear to be thriving.

Tucked away in Longridge is a small business that is making a huge impact on the gin world – awardwinning Ribble Valley Gin, which has recently created Kingsman Gin, which has been dedicated to the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

Some of the best gins in the UK are produced by makers here in the Ribble Valley, many of whom use sustainable methods to create their award-winning world class spirits. We meet some of these talented artisans to discover what botanicals go into their gin and how to create some wonderful summer cocktails.

We hope you enjoy this summer issue of Live Ribble Valley!

Jan Woolley Editor

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 6

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 99

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 5

THE MUSIC MAKERS AND THE DREAMERS OF DREAMS THE BLACKPOOL SCHOOL OF ARTS

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LANDING THE THREE FISHES NIGEL HAWORTH EXCLUSIVE SUMMER GARDEN PARTIES GIN COCKTAILS ON THE WEST END STAGE MIA MCLOUGHLIN GETTING TOUGH ON CRIME NEW POLICE COMMISSIONER

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The kitchen was a major part of the space so it was important to find the perfect kitchen company who could not only deliver a design-led kitchen but could also handle things from a project management point of view. The designer was important and after meeting Roger Astin at Kitchen Design Centre’s Urmston showroom they knew they had found the right person.

Roger worked with the couple’s architect throughout, considering different design permutations whilst making the most of the fantastic features in the room. A dark palate was chosen with Graphite units and Black Steel worktops. This industrial look was softened with natural wood and metal products such as the rustic wood worktop. The couple liked how the kitchen product allowed for intricate features such as the metal channels in the tall units and a bespoke circular dining booth area.

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Designer Roger Astin says: “This project was ideal for us, allowing me to get involved at the very start with the plans and working with the couple and their architect to achieve a unique space. Feedback from the clients was that they were impressed with not just the kitchen but our ability to help them with furniture for the living areas too. We had great fun with this project and the end result is a stunning kitchen space.”

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localfocus

F

or Nigel Haworth his latest venture is something of a homecoming.

News that he is taking over The Three Fishes has got the Ribble Valley buzzing with excitement at the prospect of this world-renowned chef creating something infinitely special when the pub re-opens.

There are rumours that he’s aiming to re-establish the pub as the best in the UK. Well why not? He’s the chef that won the Great British Menu with his refined take on a Lancashire hotpot. Since then he’s developed things even more with his stunning seasonal dishes that put sustainability, simplicity and local-sourcing at the heart of everything he does.

“The Three Fishes is a very exciting project and what’s more it feels right,” says Haworth, who first opened the hugely successful Mitton inn 17 years ago – his first venture into the pub market.

“It’s a new chapter for me. There’s a lot of work to do but it’s a great site with so much potential including the possibility of growing and working the land around the property,” he says.

Alongside plans for an on-site permaculture plot to cultivate an orchard and grow vegetables, herbs, shoots and flowers, Haworth is also hoping to source from small local growers, forming a co-operative that has mutual benefits: “The permaculture plot will be growing everything naturally,” he explains. “With Brexit I thought the country in general would be concentrating on more homegrown fruit and vegetables, but it seems the opposite is happening, which I don’t quite get.

“Our plan is to have the two-acre permaculture plot underway by next year.

It’ll be an exciting new addition that

13

WELCOME RETURN Chef Nigel Haworth is set to work his magic on The Three Fishes at Mitton, transforming the pub into a place where diners can enjoy a refined yet simple menu using fantastic, locally produced ingredients will open up a world of possibilities.

Permaculture encourages us to be resourceful and self-sufficient, by developing harmonious, efficient and productive systems, in essence it is the design of an ecologically sound way of living.”

I REALLY WANT TO ENJOY THIS, IT’S GOING TO MAKE ME VERY HAPPY Haworth’s Three Fishes venture represents a collaboration with Martin Aspinall, a trustee of the surrounding Standen Estate, who adds: “With Nigel at the head of an amazing team we are excited to develop a new dining experience that will grow on the success of The Three Fishes’ historic success.”

Eighteen months in the making, Haworth recalls: “I bumped into Martin a while back and we both said the same thing, ‘The Three Fishes!’ It’s a joint venture that we are both incredibly passionate about.”

The historic building, located in the heart of the Ribble Valley, remains in remarkably good shape despite the pub being closed for just over two years.

The exterior and interior are to be fully renovated and refurbished – the interior refurb being overseen by Haworth’s interior designer wife Kathrine along with Martin Aspinall.

“The interior will definitely be very relaxed and much softer than it was before – I felt that the last refurb the pub went through never felt right. It was too restaurant-diner based, it was all wrong.

“I want to soften everything, I know what I feel and like when it comes to interior décor – I want everything soft and polished with a patina. It has to be workable too.” With the same approach to the land the interior and exterior refurbishment will be a sustainable one, using locally sourced natural materials along with reclaimed and recycled furniture where possible, creating a longlasting environment with minimum impact on the surroundings.

While the pub’s layout will remain the same, with the bar on the upper level, there will be a private dining area on the lower level of the pub – which will accommodate dining for a private party of 10 to 12 or for a larger gathering of up to 30.

14

localfocus The upper level of the pub will cater for up to 60 diners and outside, a newly landscaped area will seat around 30: “While extending the outdoor dining area is something I always wanted to do, there were obstacles, but now is the ideal time to future proof the pub to a certain extent should there ever be a time in the future when indoor dining isn’t allowed.

“Having an outdoor dining area also means that guests can enjoy the fantastic views over the beautiful Ribble Valley countryside.”

Haworth adds: “It’s not going to be like The Three Fishes of old, which at its height was serving between 200 and 500 covers per day. We’re going to cut that right back and simplify things.”

I LIKE IT WHEN I CAN MOTIVATE A TEAM THAT SEES MY VISION AND MY STYLE OF CUISINE As chef patron and managing director, he is already starting to put a team together and intends to be hands-on in the kitchen: “As part of the refurbishment we are installing a brand-new kitchen, one that is energy efficient and uses the minimum amount of our natural resources. The Three Fishes, as it was, was heavily geared to being a gastro pub and that meant heavy duty gear in the kitchen – focusing on up to 300 covers per day. The new kitchen will be lighter, more refined and more intimate, looking to facilitate up to 150 diners a day.

“I have been really looking forward to the time when I can start being creative again. I want to inspire the chefs I am going to be working with. I like it when I can motivate a team that sees my vision and my style of cuisine.

“I really want to enjoy this new chapter, it’s going to make me very happy,” says Haworth, who was awarded a Michelin Star with Northcote, which he held for over two decades. “In future, if Michelin deems the food at The Three Fishes worthy of a star that’s fine. If it happens it happens but it’s not one of my goals.”

Since he left Northcote three-and-a-half years ago, Haworth has travelled the world cooking in Dubai, California, Ireland, Spain and Portugal: “We had some great times,” he recalls. “I also did some work in London cooking for various people. But right now, I want to get back to doing my own thing, choose my own destiny and I am so full of anticipation about what we are doing at The Three Fishes.” n

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KITCHEN WITH THE WOW-FACTOR

L

iving in a large stone-built farmhouse-style home, Deborah Brand was keen to choose a kitchen with the wow factor that would blend seamlessly with the rest of the contemporary interior.

“We had a clear vision of what we wanted,” says Deborah, a retired PE teacher.

“We had seen quite a few kitchens that we liked but they were so expensive.”

Eventually Deborah and husband Lee took a photograph of a kitchen they had spotted in a showroom and asked Rossendale Interiors to replicate it.

Part of the 200-year-old J & J Ormerod joinery company, Rossendale Interiors manufactures all its kitchen cabinets in the North West, meaning customers are able to purchase unique kitchens, bedrooms and home offices that are totally bespoke, all designed and made in-house.

Having the confidence in Rossendale Interiors’ award-winning interior designers, Deborah Brand and her husband Lee opted for stunning dark grey gloss units offset by brilliant white walls and quartz worktops. Photography: Robin Lyndon “We met with Alix the designer at Rossendale Interiors’ showrooms and she was fantastic. Her CAD drawings were amazing as we were really able to see exactly what our kitchen would look like!” says Deborah, who with husband Lee, has three sons and grandchildren too: “We wanted a big breakfast bar where all the family could sit round while I was cooking.”

gloss units and I reassured her that if we went for white walls and white quartz worktops, this would lighten the whole room as the light bounces off the white surfaces.”

NOT ONLY DOES IT LOOK GREAT BUT IT FUNCTIONS REALLY WELL ON A PRACTICAL BASIS TOO. IT REALLY DOES TICK ALL THE BOXES! Once the old white gloss kitchen cabinets were removed and the new kitchen was installed, designer Alix Gothard oversaw the installation: “Deborah had a good idea of what she wanted so I just brought it all together. She had chosen dark grey Dakota

Alix designed the large breakfast bar, which is made from solid walnut, to add warmth to the room: “From a design point of view I really enjoyed doing this,”

homesinsideout

23

she recalls. “It wasn’t something I’d done before as it wrapped around the island but it works really well.

“The layout of the kitchen is very similar to what it was before but we opted for a big bank of tall units at one end as Deborah wanted to store things out of sight so everything looks tidy.”

WHILE THE HOUSE IS VERY PICTURESQUE AND LOOKS TRADITIONAL FROM THE EXTERIOR, THE INTERIOR IS QUITE MODERN SO WE REALLY DID WANT A KITCHEN WITH THE WOW FACTOR Deborah, who chose Karndean parquet style flooring to tone with the grey cabinets, adds: “I don’t like clutter, I like a minimalist approach so the kitchen works extremely well.

The breakfast bar in dark walnut with rounded edges is just perfect as I love entertaining and we chose pendant industrial style lights to add to the contemporary style.

“While the house is very picturesque and looks traditional from the exterior, the interior is quite modern so we really did want a kitchen with the wow factor.

“Not only does it look great, but it functions really well on a practical basis too.

It really does tick all the boxes!

“Alix was so professional throughout – nothing was too much trouble. From our first meeting in the Rossendale Interiors showroom she was just amazing! The kitchen fitter too was excellent – it was a great experience from start to finish with hardly any disruption at all. The quality of the units is fabulous and we have got the kitchen of our dreams for a fraction of the price. As a company we cannot fault Rossendale Interiors!”

Rossendale Interiors is set over three floors with more than 50 kitchens, bedrooms and home offices on display with design, cabinetry manufacture, fittings and appliances

all under one roof so visitors can view the entire range and select exactly what they want, so they get a kitchen that works on every level. n For more details go to: rossendaleinteriors.com K I TC H E N S l B E D R O O M S l H O M E O F F I C E www.rossendaleinteriors.com Tel: 01706 252122 Email: rireception@j joplc.com

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homesinsideout

LIVING LARGE OUTDOORS Outdoor living spaces are all the rage. And, it’s clear why.

Whether you have a large patio to play with, a tiny balcony or even just a courtyard garden, there is so much you can do to blend a little of the indoors out!

M

aking whatever outdoor space you do have as stylish, comfortable and inviting doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.You just need to be selective, a little creative and in no time at all, you’ll have merged your indoor living room with your outdoor

space perfectly. Connecting your space can amplify your lifestyle and you’ll wonder why you’d never thought about doing it before.

Before you start making any plans, take a good look at your garden – its position, orientation and outlook – where does the sun rise and where do the winds hit? This

will determine how you best make use of your outside space.

Next think about what you want the space for. A place for entertaining or eating, or a place for relaxing? If you have the space, then you can divide the area up by creating different levels or sections.

Do you want to be able to use the area in all weathers? Then you may need to look at shelter and heating with pagodas or canopies and patio heaters, fire pits or a chiminea. If it’s an area for eating, then ensure the ground is flat and solid, as wobbly tables aren’t fun to eat from.

Invest in sturdy weather proof garden furniture. Rattan is considered the best long term garden furniture to leave outside.

Wooden garden furniture should be good

CONNECTING YOUR SPACE CAN AMPLIFY YOUR LIFESTYLE AND YOU’LL WONDER WHY YOU’D NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT DOING IT BEFORE all year round – especially if it’s a hard wood such as oak, ash or beech and regularly treated. Most furniture also comes with suitable cushions to make the sitting experience more comfortable.

Plants in pots make great additions to outdoor living areas and take little looking after. Consider the amount of sunshine

that the plant will receive each day. The containers for plants today, come in all sorts of interesting sizes, shapes and colours and can make great additions to an outdoor living area without a plant even in them.

And finally if you have the space why not create a mini bar? Some might say that an outdoor living area is not complete without one. n

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homesinsideout

A MAN WHO KNOWS WHAT HE WANTS! When Salim popped into Gainsborough Flooring looking for some ideas, he hadn’t anticipated falling in love with Amtico Signature Basket Weave. The instant he saw it, he knew it was perfect for his home, writes Meena McDonald

W

hen he visited Gainsborough Flooring Salim was in the middle of an extensive refurbishment project led by inspirational interior designer Nita Patel from Petal Interiors, incorporating a double extension, along with the renovation of a kitchen area.

Salim selected Amtico’s stunning Basket Weave in Sanctuary Grain with a 3mm gold design strip as recommended by Nita, which ran throughout the whole ground floor including the hallway, living areas, kitchen and dining room. Basket Weave has the beauty of directional grains which shine through in single-coloured woods and become the focal point of any room.

On a site visit to view and measure the flooring space, Vicky Brown from Gainsborough Flooring advised that an expert should take a look at the area as there was excessive movement in the subfloor.

GFC in conjunction with FBalls came up with a solution and screed with stopgap 700 and primer was applied to the area before the Amtico was installed.

Salim commented: “The best thing about working with Gainsborough Flooring is their knowledge and expertise. They don’t cut any corners and I was impressed when Vicky insisted I take expert advice to ensure the floor was prepared to the highest standard as she knew it wouldn’t work otherwise.

“Of course she was right and the floor would never have looked as incredible as it does if it hadn’t been properly prepared. Since the installation, numerous colleagues have visited the house and it’s the first thing they comment on. They all love the flooring!”

The stairs and landing were fitted out with Alternative Flooring’s cool and contemporary

Luxx Sheer Narwhal. With its tip-shear finish, it adds elegance and texture to any space. Luxx Sheer Narwhal black jet rugs were also added to complement the areas in the lounge and dining room.

For his son’s bedroom, Salim selected Westex Silken Velvet Chic in Smoulder ensuring unrivalled luxury, irresistible comfort and a lustrous appearance for the room.

Salim added: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the flooring and adore the new areas we have created. The installation team from Gainsborough was fantastic and their attention to detail and efficiency was amazing, especially as they had to work around numerous other tradespeople who were onsite at the time too.”

As far as Salim is concerned he’ll certainly be working with Vicky and her team for any future flooring projects: “I love working with local businesses, especially family owned ones where there is so much passion, knowledge and expertise. I’ve already recommended Gainsborough to relatives who have purchased new flooring from them.” n Interior design by Petal Interiors

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

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

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Visit Holden Clough Nurseries to view our Pod Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG

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Conservatories | Orangeries | Windows | Doors | Garden Rooms | Sunlounges | Roofline Sunlounges T: 01772 01772 703 703 777 777 W: www.croftconservatories.co.uk www.croftconservatories.co.uk Roofline T: || W:

T: 01772 703 777 | W: www.croftconservatories.co.uk Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG Unit 6 Pittman Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, 2 9ZG Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9ZG Unit 6PRPittman

RURAL RENOVATION A couple who have recently renovated a former stable block to create a stunning home, now have a kitchen that blends seamlessly into their open plan conversion. Photography: Sarah Valentine

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etired primary school teacher Sandra Lund and her agricultural engineer husband John have recently moved into a beautiful new home – a converted stable block set around a stunning central courtyard.

Located in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside at Gisburn, the historic building has wooden timber roof trusses – a feature that Sandra definitely wanted to keep when the couple embarked on their extensive restoration project.

“The roof trusses were an integral part of the house running through the open plan kitchen and lounge,” explains Sandra.

When it came to fitting out the new

kitchen in their farmhouse style home the couple turned to Katie Green of Waddington-based Heart of your Home Kitchens: “A friend of mine recommended Katie and we had also visited her studio at Backridge,” recalls Sandra.

I HAD A SPECIFIC WISH LIST THAT INCLUDED AN AGA AND AN ISLAND UNIT BUT I NEEDED SOMEONE TO COME ALONG AND ADD THEIR ARTISTIC FLAIR “We had a good idea of what style of kitchen we wanted – something fairly

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classic that we would still love in a few years’ time and which would complement the rest of the house. I had a specific wish list that included an AGA and an island unit but I needed someone to come along and add their artistic flair. Katie fitted the bill perfectly!”

As Sandra wanted an electric AGA that she could switch off during warmer weather, Katie suggested other appliances that would work well alongside it: “She suggested a Neff oven, microwave and a warming drawer too which was a brilliant idea! Katie really encouraged us to think out of the box,” says Sandra, who chose an AGA in Pewter.

THE INSTALLATION WENT VERY SMOOTHLY AND NOTHING WAS TOO MUCH TROUBLE FOR KATIE OR MICK. I WOULDN’T HESITATE TO RECOMMEND THEM! The couple selected Shaker style Fitzroy cabinetry from Heart of your Home’s Second Nature collection, choosing the outer units and larder in Stone, a natural light colour while the island is finished in Truffle – a darker, chocolate shade: “Katie was so good as she got all the stone and grey palettes for us to see. She provides a really great one-to-one service and is so patient. She encouraged me to bring door samples home so we could get the family involved and ask their opinion.

“The grey tones were beautiful but cooler and the stone shades were perfect as they complemented the warm shade of the timber roof trusses,” adds Sandra.

With huge ceramic flag effect floor tiles

from Collins and White in Clitheroe, white quartz worktops and an array of lighting performing different functions, the completed kitchen is a stunning focal point for this open plan home.

Above the island is a light that has been custom made from a recycled railway post and chains featuring industrial style filament bulbs, which was installed by local electrician Andy Waddington.

“We have spotlights angled at the beams, lighting under the AGA, lighting in display cabinets and when you open up the double larder it automatically illuminates,” explains Sandra, who also commissioned Katie to design and install a boot room and utility to match her delightful kitchen.

Using the same cabinetry and colours, Katie chose an alcove to install a coat hanging and boot area: “I know how important a

utility room is and as usual Katie came up with some great ideas.

“Katie’s fitter, Mick Pickup, who installed the kitchen and utility was so professional – the installation went very smoothly and nothing was too much trouble for Katie or Mick. Katie was always at the end of the phone and frequently popped in to check things were going well. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her!”

Having moved into their new home Sandra and John have already entertained friends and family in their lovely kitchen: “We recently got together with family and it was fabulous! We think the kitchen really complements the rest of the house.”

Katie who was delighted to work with Sandra and John on the project, adds: “It was a pleasure to meet Sandra and John and I am delighted that they love their new kitchen and boot room so much!” n

Heart of your Home Kitchens Heart of your Home Kitchens Backridge Farm Business Centre Twitter Lane Waddington BB7 3LQ FINAL ARTWORK 01200 444540 HEART OF YOUR HOME - ARTWORK 28/03/2016 heartofyourhomekitchens.co.uk

© ARTURAS JANUSAS 2016 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TM

2 0 2 0

PERFECT STRIPES SINCE 1970 The Hayter Harrier® lawnmower – 50 years at the top of it’s game.

The Hayter Harrier® rear roller lawnmower now features industry leading Crank-Safe Blade Brake Clutch system† and optional electric start, combined with exquisite striping ability and perfectly matched petrol power engines. Groovy in the 70s, even more capable today... Because a perfectly striped lawn will never go out of style. Find out more at your nearest Hayter dealer.

Mowerpower Ltd

Unit A Tom Horns Yard Garstang Road (A6) Claughton-on-Brock Models shown are the original 1970s Harrier® and the latest Hayter Harrier® 41 (CODE 375A) with electric start Briggs & Stratton® engine, self-propelled autodrive transmission, aluminium cutter deck and a 5 year warranty*. *Applies to original purchaser, for residential use, annual service required.

Call: 01706 281 700 Email: info@burningdesireuk.com Web: www.burningdesireuk.com

The latest in interior design functionality, the media wall brings together electric fireplace, TV, lighting, shelving, tiling etc to create a modern centrepiece for your living room / office / dining room / man or woman cave - wherever that will benefit from this aesthetic, space saving furniture device.

We can create bespoke walls to suit your requirements, including Venetian Plastering and Microcement finishes come in and chat about your specific needs.

Burning Desire are approved stockists of the leading international brands of electronic fires such as Gazco, Evonic, Polaris, Infinity, DRU, etc.

Remember - we have over 85 fires available for live demonstration....well worth a vist!

Coming soon for Summer 2021: Designer Firepits...

BBQs...Outdoor Stoves...

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_Walls_200x140.indd 1

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MEDIA WALLS

TV’s can be placed above an electric fire with no issues. The heat they produce and the direction it is blown in will not adversely affect a TV- or any other popular electronics for that matter!

Friendly and experienced advice on all aspects of: Fireplaces ~ Gas & Electric fires ~ Stoves ~ Installation 11/06/2021 15:28

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H

aving worked in the plumbing industry since 1964, Hughie Harris took the plunge in 1981 to start his own business selling plumbing equipment to the trade. This business has since evolved and now sells and installs stunning bathroom suites from their inspirational showroom.

Commercial contracts for the NHS and Blackburn Borough Council have been an integral part of the business from inception and are managed by plumbing expert Liam.

Fast forward and the company is now ready to celebrate its 40th birthday!

So what can be attributed to the success of H & S? In a nutshell, it’s down to building an unrivalled reputation for providing exceptional customer service and supplying high quality products, as Hughie explains: “It’s a family run business with my son Ian managing the retail side of the company and my daughter-in-law Joanne is the company secretary. We believe that our personal, friendly and professional service makes all the difference, and the amount of repeat business and recommendations we receive is testament to this.”

THE HIDDEN GEM OF BLACKBURN Established 40 years ago by Hughie Harris, H & S Plumbers Merchants Limited, along with their bathroom showroom, is a real hidden gem situated in the heart of Blackburn, writes Meena McDonald. Photography: Kirsten Platt

The recipe for the company’s success in the retail market, which has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, is all about understanding and meeting customer expectations.

“In the past 10 years, customers have become a lot more savvy in their purchasing decisions and H & S have found they are keen on the full package, from design right through to installation.

“With a range of contemporary bathroom suites alongside more traditional ones displayed in the impressive showroom, customers have plenty of styles to choose from,” adds Hughie.

What makes H & S different from other bathroom suppliers, is the fact they’ll dedicate a team member to you from the minute you walk into the showroom, helping you select the right suite for your home and installing it at your convenience.

In fact, they’re so comfortable with their

level of service, they don’t charge their customers until the bathroom suite has been fully installed and the customer is happy with it!

The team of skilled installers are a fundamental part of the H & S extended family and always leave every home clean and tidy after each installation and even take the old bathroom away!

WE BELIEVE THAT OUR PERSONAL, FRIENDLY AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE H & S have an equally successful relationship with their trade customers. Working with reliable suppliers across the globe, they are able to access high quality equipment for local plumbers. Throughout the winter in particular, H & S heating specialist, Martin, provides critical support to ensure heating and boilers remain in excellent working order.

So, if you want to purchase a top quality bathroom suite or plumbing products and be supported throughout the whole process by a team of experts, look no further than the hidden gem of Blackburn, H & S Plumbers Merchants and Bathroom Showroom. n

H&S Plumbers Merchants Oxford Mill, Montague Street Blackburn BB2 1EH 01254 664883 hs-bathrooms.co.uk

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homesinsideout

THE ART OF OUTDOOR LIVING These Ultimate Picnic Toolkits will bring a little bit of luxury to your trip to the beach, park or countryside

W

ith the arrival of summer, outdoor activities such as picnics, friends and family gatherings, garden parties and cocktail evenings are becoming an essential part of everyone’s outdoor social habits.

So, when it comes to outdoor soirees, Heating & Plumbing London have perfected this art by creating the Ultimate Picnic Toolkit.

The Ultimate Picnic Toolkits are designed to create a stylish, comfortable and practical set-up that will ensure that your picnics will be the envy of the crowd!

Heating & Plumbing London is a brand that creates playful and tactile lifestyle accessories with the majority of products made in the British Isles. Everything created is with a strong sense of fun, without forgetting usability and high attention to quality and detail.

Each of the nine beautiful Ultimate Picnic Toolkits contains: • A pure new wool picnic blanket with matching waterproof backing and made in the UK. The blanket comes with a colourful leather carrying strap.

• Portable Champagne bucket with leather strap – made in the UK and France.

Created for those summer evenings spent on the beach or in a local park

with a picnic and a nice bottle of rosé or Champagne that needs to be kept cool. The base of the Champagne cooler is shaped, so that your bottle is slightly tilted and can be nicely covered with ice and remain very cold.

• Two pure new wool cushions with waterproof backing – made in the UK. The collection of fun outdoor cushions are super cute, light and comfy. The ultimate accessory for posh picnics and garden living! The cover is fully machine washable and the inside slips out by opening the discreet zip.

• Smart cotton storage and travel bag – printed in the UK. The Ultimate Picnic Toolkits come in a variety of designs including Posh Getaway, Duck Egg Check, Highland Dream, Sunny Afternoon, Classic Hunting Lodge, Sherwood Forest, Mint Green and Yellow and Notting Hill. n

Price: £299 heating-and-plumbing.com

(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

QUALITY, LUXURY & STYLE “Both are long established family businesses

With our lives ever changing, a garden room has become the ideal with a very similar business ethos and a solution and Croft Pods offer a wide range of bespoke options strong focus on high quality British made products based in the North West.” to find your perfect outside space, writes Gail Bailey.

Photography: Sarah Valentine

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roft Pods’ story began following the lockdown when Director Samuel Hill and his family were gathered in the garden, chatting in the sunshine: “We were brainstorming ideas about how the family business, Croft Complete Homes, could develop, adapt and emerge from such strange times,” he says.

Together they came up with the concept of ‘garden pods’, to be designed and built to the same quality as Croft Complete Homes products, adding a secondary pod business that would refresh and complement.

“We scribbled, sketched, researched and arrived at the designs and logo – a creative combination of all our ideas,” explains Samuel. “A garden room allows you to work

from home, as many people had begun to, but with the added benefit of being away from the distractions of the house.”

Croft Pods is now in its new location at Holden Clough Nurseries, Bolton-by-Bowland: “The association with Holden Clough is perfect for Croft Pods,” explains Samuel.

A GARDEN ROOM ALLOWS YOU TO WORK FROM HOME, BUT WITH THE ADDED BENEFIT OF BEING AWAY FROM THE DISTRACTIONS OF THE HOUSE

Croft Pods delivers bespoke, versatile garden rooms to cater to a wide range of customer needs. The pods are completely customisable and provide the perfect extra space for your business or home. They can be built to any size, with any door combinations from bi-folding to sliding, and can be used for almost anything!

Transform your space to a home office, a gym, cinema, studio, games or hobby room, Airbnb rental space, an extra guest area – even as a library or simply a perfect

homesinsideout place to escape for some quiet time.

Enquiries for the ‘hair and beauty’ industry is also on the up.

“This is a great use of the pods, providing privacy, luxury and relaxation, and the perfect work location for a stylist or therapist.” All the units include climatecontrolled windows making them even more ideal.

A range of designs are available from Croft Pods but as the service they provide is entirely bespoke to the customer, the team will advise on space, design, door and window combinations as well as cladding colours. The pods are designed with a solution to Lancashire’s harsh weather as a top priority, with the rooms being fitted with full electrics, heating and more than capable levels of insulation: “We take great care that the materials we use to build the pods are environmentally friendly,” Samuel explains: “The cladding we use is made up of 55 per cent wood and 45 per cent recycled HDPE plastic.”

WE TAKE GREAT CARE THAT THE MATERIALS WE USE TO BUILD THE PODS ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

As the pods can be personalised, they are able to be constructed down to the exact millimetre, to fit into any space: “Having a versatile ‘grounds foundation’ system means that pods can be fitted almost anywhere, including a sloping garden or on a hillside,” Samuel further explains.

“We have the heritage and quality of Croft Complete Homes behind us, which has been providing double-glazed windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries for 25 years. This means we have the same suppliers, and the Croft 10-year guarantee to rely on,” Samuel adds.

This long-established guarantee illustrates the quality of the structures, and the confidence Croft Pods have in their product: “We know our garden rooms are structured to the highest standards by fitting teams who are well experienced and have over

40 years’ of individual experience in the industry,” Samuel affirms. “We are confident that we build our structures to the same exacting standards of new build commercial and residential properties in the UK, but with top quality windows and doors.”

Covering the whole of the North West, and also extending across the border into Yorkshire, and beyond, Croft Pods provide garden rooms across a wide catchment area. Customers can visit the website, call the expert team, or visit the showroom, which is idyllically situated by the river at Holden Clough and enjoy a day out in the beautiful Ribble Valley countryside, to discuss their requirements.

“We are more than happy to speak to customers who want to find out more, and have a free, no obligation chat about how one of our Pods could enhance their home, living or working space perfectly,” says Samuel. n Please call or email to make an appointment

Croft Pods Holden Clough Nurseries Bolton by Bowland BB7 4PF 01772 703777 sales@croftgardenbuildings.co.uk croftgardenbuildings.co.uk

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homesinsideout the niksen concept. Niksen is all about creating a haven where you can relax and free your mind from the stresses of day-to-day life, but how that space should look design-wise, is personal to each individual. However, when it comes to colours, there are a few considerations to bear in mind on the overall effect that colours can have on your mood.

Blues and greens are the most peaceful of colours and are perfect for creating a tranquil ambience. Soft pinks are highly recommended too. Try to stick to one or two colours and avoid too many patterns which you may find distracting.

Naturally calm It has long been believed that the presence of botanicals in our homes can help us to relax.

FIVE IDEAS FOR CREATING A PEACEFUL INTERIOR

‘N

iksen’, a concept that has come from Holland, simply means to do nothing, but to do so with purpose. It’s a form of self-care which encourages the mind and body to de-stress by allowing the mind to wander. It’s similar to meditation in its intended purpose but far easier to achieve.

To practise niksen is to simply take a few moments out of your busy schedule to let your thoughts flow freely. But how do we create a niksen-friendly environment within our homes?

Ultimately, it’s about having a comfortable space in which to relax without distraction.

After over a year of lockdowns,

We’ve been embracing the Danish concept of hygge for quite some time now, creating homes that are cosy and inviting. Now there’s a new lifestyle trend taking the interior design world by storm and this time it’s from Holland finding some ‘alone space’ has been hard to do, so as restrictions ease and normality returns, niksen may be just what you need for a more contented life.

In this blog, we’re sharing a few ideas on how you can transform your living space into a haven of tranquillity, thus allowing those moments of mindfulness.

Find your happy place!

Finding a space in which to relax at home can prove difficult in today’s world. Our lives are often busy and our living spaces designed to perform multiple functions. In order to fully embrace the concept of niksen, it’s key that you have a space in which to do so – a space which

is primarily yours. If you don’t have a spare room in which to create your happy place, there are a couple of other options.

Multi-purpose furniture will enable you to adapt a guest bedroom, home office or box room so you can use it for relaxation when its primary function isn’t required. Or, you can create a cosy corner of your own simply with a comfortable chair adorned with cushions and soft throws in one of the more peaceful areas of your home.

Harmonious hues Unlike other such trends, there are no set rules when it comes to designing your interiors around

Plants are natural mood-boosters and can help to alleviate stress and anxiety by injecting life into an otherwise sterile environment and helping to clean the air of toxins. Choose easy-to-maintain houseplants like succulents and cacti. As

niksen is all about relaxation, consider more than one of your senses. Calming greens and simple botanical patterns will be visually calming, but you could also introduce nature’s calming benefits through aroma.

Scented flowers, candles and aromatherapy oils add an extra layer of serenity to an already calm interior. Lavender is particularly effective as a natural calming aid.

HARTLEYS FIT TING FURNITURE FOR YOU

Clear the clutter A clutter-free home aids a clutter-free mind. Hence ‘doing nothing, with purpose’ is easier to achieve with fewer distractions. Cluttered surfaces and disorganised rooms will engage your brain in finding a solution for the untidiness and make it virtually impossible for you to switch off and take time out.

So, get savvy with your storage provision and store away anything that doesn’t need to be on display. Bespoke fitted furniture allows you to incorporate a vast array of storage options designed just for you and your space, while being streamlined and easy to clean – perfect for a niksen-inspired home!

Introduce feng shui Creating a home which promotes positive energy and reduces stress levels is by no means a new thing. The Chinese have been doing so for thousands of years via the art of feng shui. This ancient philosophy encourages harmony between a living space and an individual through a more considered layout and the careful placement of furniture. For example, the ideal living room will have at least two external walls, and in a bedroom the bed should be placed centrally and

out of line with the door in order for energy to flow freely. Feng shui interiors tend to include wooden features and fittings, so opt for natural oaks, teaks and pine on the furniture front.

At Hartleys we design bedrooms, home-offices and multi-purpose rooms which combine functionality and style. Our aim is to design storage solutions and room layouts which promote tidy and organised living, which in turn create a more harmonious and peaceful home environment.

The wood we use to create our furniture derives from managed forestations and can be enjoyed with a natural wood-grain finish or a relaxing paint shade of your choice. If you’d like to discuss your fitted furniture plans, we’d love to hear from you. You can see us at our Skipton showroom, or request a home visit from one of our experienced designers. n

at home in the office

bespoke furniture

made locally just for you

To request your FREE home design visit, call 01756 700471 Or visit our factory/showroom Open Mon to Fri 9:30am-4:30pm

hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

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homesinsideout

ONE OF A KIND… The Kairos Collective is a platform for interior designers, collectors and those who are simply passionate about beautiful home furnishings, to access the pinnacle of antique, vintage and modernist design on demand

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he Kairos Collective focuses on impeccable provenance, craftsmanship and design integrity.

From furniture and lighting to accessories and exclusive limited editions, the collective’s inventory is carefully selected

from established and emerging dealers and designers throughout the UK and Europe.

Customers will find iconic designs from names including Mario Bellini, Sergio Rodrigues and Jean Royere listed alongside unusual, rare and one-off decorative pieces.

HAVING A ONE-OF-A-KIND ANTIQUE OR A BESPOKE PIECE OF DESIGN FOR THE HOME IS THE ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF GOOD TASTE The collective showcases the work of favourite interior designers through exclusive, inspirational editorial and video content.

Recent profiles include designer Peter Mikic and his clients Fletcher Cowan and Paul Price. Customers can get the look by shopping these curated picks on the site.

For those who need more help creating their dream interior, Kairos matches customers with the right interior designer based on their style, taste and budget.

Brought together on one easy-to-navigate platform, searchable by everything from price to period, the site allows visitors to shop Europe’s foremost ‘design districts’, enabling them to access the unique aesthetic of the leading design and antique hubs in one place. The result is a beautifully put

together one-stop-shop to furnish the world’s most discerning homes and inspired living spaces.

Tanya Southworth, founder of the Kairos Collective, comments: “A key part of the Kairos Collective’s vision is to make high-quality design accessible to a wider audience.”

The Kairos Collective believes in showing courage in personal taste, investing in key items, with a focus on craftsmanship and style. Treasured pieces of furniture passed from one generation to the next, like works of art, have regained their relevance.

“In a world where everything has become ubiquitous, having a one-of-a-kind antique or a bespoke piece of design for the home is the ultimate expression of good taste.” n thekairoscollective.com

professional steel welders

MC Fabrication gates & railings

Unit 7, Tardy Gate Trading Estate, Coote Lane, Preston PR5 5JD. 01772 396680 www.irongatesnorthwest.co.uk

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

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SUMMER IN THE GARDEN June is a lovely month to be in the garden. With the evenings getting longer and brighter you can use your garden or patio as a great extension to your home, and just sit back and relax

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t’s at this time of year that lawns need to be mowed more frequently so here are some key pointers on getting that perfect cared for look. Mow at least once a week and raise the mower blades when it’s very hot weather. Don’t mow when grass is wet or during a drought and don’t collect your clippings during dry spells as this helps conserve moisture. Keep watering throughout the summer unless there is a

water shortage and repair bare patches with turf or re-seeding.

This is also the month to ensure that all your plants are adequately fed, particularly those in baskets and tubs. Plants benefit from a regular feeding programme as they are growing vigorously and need their nutrition levels to be kept up. Slow-release granules are a good idea for pots and baskets because they last for about six months and release food as it is required into the compost.

Not often thought of as a container plant, but an excellent option for small gardens, is a rose. A simple solution for June is to create an instant rose garden that you can enjoy throughout the summer. Just buy a selection of different sized pots, plant them with a variety of roses and then place them together in a group. There is a rose for every garden situation. From hybrid teas to miniatures, climbers to floribundas, the choice is endless. Roses are easy to grow and will thrive in most soil types providing there is good drainage. They prefer a position that is sunny and not too exposed and need regular feeding which will improve their resistance to pests and disease, although some roses will require spraying to combat aphids and mildew. Pruning is also important to remove dead heads and improve flowering over a longer period of time. If you are replacing old roses with new ones, ensure

that the old soil is removed and replaced with fresh soil. n THINGS TO DO IN JUNE: As the temperature rises and mid-summer’s day arrives, here are few ‘must do’ jobs for the garden this month from the Royal Horticultural Society: • Lawn mowing and management • Plant out summer bedding plants • Trim hedges • Look after your tomato plants • Pick first of the salad leaves and herbs • Keep on top of weeding • Ensure all plants are fed and watered • Pest control • Sow French and runner beans • Feed local wildlife particularly in dry weather

JOULES WELLS CROSS BODY BAG FRENCH NAVY £34.95 kenvarey.co.uk

18CT WHITE GOLD RAINBOW SAPPHIRE BANGLE £3350 NECKLACE £995 EARRINGS £2100 Leonard Dews Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

JOULES WATERPROOF COAST MAC ANTIQUE GOLD £109 kenvarey.co.uk GEORGE PRINTED MIDI POCKET DRESS £18 GEORGE COTTON BLACK CHAIN MULE £16 direct.asda.com

LACOSTE SURUGA SANDALS £65 next.co.uk

STAYCATION STAPLES With more of us inclined to take a staycation this year, these holiday accessories will brighten up your day

BARBOUR BOBBIN WATERPROOF JACKET £219 kenvarey.co.uk

BARBOUR COASTAL SPORTS CAP NAVY £37.95 kenvarey.co.uk

LACOSTE STRAIGHTSET TRAINERS £80 next.co.uk

MERRELL KAHUNA WALKING SANDAL TAUPE £ 84.95 Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk

BARBOUR CASCADE SPORTS CAP £19.95 kenvarey.co.uk

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

OLIVER BONAS CREAM ANGLED SUNGLASSES £24 oliverbonas.com

TAN PLATFORM CUTOUT WEDGE SANDALS £45 kaleidoscope.co.uk

NO SA W LE O N

FABULOUS FOOTWEAR AT VAREYS FOOTWEAR GALLERY Step out in style with everything from high quality fashion footwear, walking shoes and wellingtons to British-made and hand-made shoes.

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trained and friendly staff will measure your feet and help you find and choose shoes that fit and are comfortable.

We recognise that everyone’s feet are different and so we stock a wide range of brands and styles in different sizes, widths and depths for men and women, with removable footbeds to accommodate custom-made or off-the-shelf insoles.

STILL PUTTING FEET FIRST! Put a smile on your feet this summer and visit fitright footwear – one of the UK’s leading specialist shoe shops.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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ummer is here, and fitright footwear is the place to visit if you want to make sure your feet are professionally fitted in footwear that will help you make the most of the great outdoors and of course the glorious British weather.

Getting out and walking in the fresh air is amazingly beneficial to our mental health and wellbeing. It’s exercise on the doorstep and it’s free!

However, to make the most of it, correctly fitting footwear is a must. There is nothing worse than having uncomfortable, ill-fitting shoes that make your feet hurt and put you off, or worse, stop you getting out and about.

Now that many Covid restrictions have eased and places to visit are open once again, we are all keen to enjoy and make the most of our freedom once more. Whether it’s walking out in the countryside, around town or

HEALTHY FEET EQUAL A HEALTHY BODY AND HEALTHY MIND places of interest, we all need something on our feet that is so comfortable we can forget about them and concentrate instead on enjoying ourselves. Healthy feet equal a healthy body and healthy mind.

At fitright footwear, we offer a complimentary, personal and bespoke measuring and fitting service. Our highly

There is no such thing as a standardised fit when it comes to buying shoes. Beyond childhood adults rarely get their feet measured.When you consider that our feet continue to change – becoming longer, flatter and wider, as we get older, in addition to potentially developing issues such as bunions and hammer toes, the importance of wearing shoes, which fit correctly, increases.

Customers return again and again to purchase footwear at fitright footwear.

After benefitting from the in-depth product knowledge and advice on footwear and discovering that their shoes have successfully alleviated painful foot conditions, and got them out and about with confidence once more, they are reluctant to shop anywhere else.

Ring and book your one-to-one appointment now. Fitright footwear – measure – fit – go! n

Fitright Footwear 32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399 clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk 3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172 harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk fitrightfootwear.co.uk comfort.fit.style _fitright TM

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE Patek Philippe is revisiting the Aquanaut Luce collection known for its modern, sporty chic – and launching a new travel watch for women

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uilding on its success, Patek Philippe is presenting a new development in the design of the ladies’ Aquanaut Luce – luce meaning light in Italian.

In 1976, Patek Philippe defined its own vision of casual elegance by launching the famous Nautilus. And having done so well, it did not stop there. In 1997, it reaffirmed its ability to innovate by unveiling another high-end sporty watch, the Aquanaut, this too destined to become a cult model.

For women wishing to combine modern sporty chic with a touch of sparkle, Patek Philippe created a special version of the Aquanaut, lit by a circle of diamonds on the bezel and named it Aquanaut Luce.

NEW AQUANAUT LUCE MODELS FOR 2021

Over the years Aquanaut Luce has enjoyed outstanding success with women, who delight in its unique style and the elegance that it brings to every occasion.

It has become a cult watch and Patek Philippe is now adding to its allure.

A SAPPHIRE-CRYSTAL BACK REVEALS THE MOVEMENT’S ARCHITECTURE AND FLAWLESS HAND-FINISH It is revisiting the original design of 2004 in a new generation of quartz-powered models in steel and a self-winding model in rose gold that together will take over from the previous models. The manufacturer is also introducing the first additional function to join the Aquanaut Luce collection, namely the Travel Time dual time zone.

The new Aquanaut Luce timepieces feature a larger diameter (38.8mm) and a new integrated strap.

The Aquanaut Luce with a self-winding mechanical movement was launched in 2010 with a rose-gold model with a chocolate brown dial and strap (Ref. 5068R-001), joined in 2013 by a version in white (Ref. 5068R-010).

The rose-gold case, water-resistant to 120m, contrasts the polished finish on its flat surfaces with a satin-brushed finish on the flanks. The emblematic rounded octagonal bezel has a polished bevelled edge and sparkles with 48 Top Wesselton pure diamonds (1.11 carat) set with textbook precision.

A dial in matt white with the embossed Aquanaut motif forms a luxurious backdrop to rose-gold applied Arabic numerals and rose-gold baton-style hour and minute hands with a luminescent coating. A slender rose-gilt sweep-seconds hand completes the time display, while the date appears in an aperture at three o’clock.

This sporty, elegant timepiece is powered by the calibre 26-330 S C self-winding movement. Introduced in 2019, this calibre is endowed with a number of technical

fashion innovations and optimisations (two of which are patented) relating particularly to the winding system. The presence of a stop-seconds device, which stops the balance when the crown is pulled out, enables the user to set the time to the second. A sapphire-crystal back reveals the movement’s architecture and flawless hand-finish. The watch is worn on an integrated matt-white strap made of an ultra-resistant composite material with a patented fold-over clasp secured by four independent catches.

A CASUALLY ELEGANT MODEL FOR ALL OCCASIONS The Aquanaut Luce Travel Time represents a new practical and elegant travel watch for women. In developing this globetrotting Aquanaut Luce, Patek Philippe drew inspiration from the manufacture’s ingenious Travel Time dual time-zone mechanism. This exclusive system is already a feature of the men’s Aquanaut, where two push-pieces on the left flank of the case set the local time.

But to retain all the elegance and finesse that women love in the Aquanaut Luce, the manufacture reinterpreted this useful, user-friendly function to incorporate two innovations – a new quartz movement with a dual-time-zone function, calibre E 23-250 S FUS 24H, and a discreet, practical setting system via the winding crown. This device required that the

electronic movement be fitted with a dual time-zone mechanism similar to those that equip all Patek Philippe’s World Time and Travel Time watches, but controlled by the clutch-pinion that activates hand-setting, rather than by pushers.

The new Aquanaut Luce Travel Time has two central hour hands – a skeletonized hand for home time and a solid hand for local time. When its owner changes time zones, the hour hand for local time may be set forwards or backwards by increments of one hour using the crown pulled out to the intermediate position, without this affecting the accuracy of the movement.

During the time spent abroad, the skeletonized hand will continue to display home time, coupled with the day/night indicator at six o’clock.

When the watch’s owner remains at home or no longer needs a second time zone, the two-hour hands can be superimposed to become a single hand, using the winding crown. In this way, the Aquanaut Luce Travel Time offers two watches in one – a casually elegant model for all occasions, transformable in an instant into a dual time-zone watch for those who travel and communicate worldwide.

The rose-gold case, equipped with a non-screw-down crown to make using

the Travel Time function practical and unobtrusive is water-resistant to 60m. The Aquanaut Luce’s chic, sporty personality gains extra sparkle from a bezel edged with a polished bevel and set with 48 Top Wesselton pure diamonds (1.11 carat).

The dial presents an embossed Aquanaut motif beneath rose-gold applied numerals and rose-gold baton-style hands, the solid hands feature a luminescent coating.

The new Aquanaut Luce Travel Time complements the existing Patek Philippe travel watches for women, which comprise four models – the World Time with 24 time zones, available in white gold or rose gold, and the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time, also in white gold or rose gold, whose design pays tribute to classic aeronautical style. n

Leonard Dews Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

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BY TERRY TEA TO TAN FACE & BODY £58 Tea infused liquid bronzer for the face and body. Creates a warm tan finish, sheen or matte depending on whether you shake the water-based formula. byterry.com

ISLE OF PARADISE MEDIUM SELF-TANNING MOUSSE £19.95 Green colour corrective that cancels red tones, results in the perfect medium golden tan.

The naturally derived colour guide guarantees an easy, fuss-free application. theisleofparadise.com

BEAUTIFULLY BRONZED Give your skin a natural golden glow with these multitasking tanning products that also hydrate and nourish

COOLA SUNLESS TAN ANTI-AGEING FACE SERUM £49 This multi-tasking facial serum is formulated with over 70 per cent organic ingredients that work to hydrate and smooth the skin, all while delivering a natural-looking tan. spacenk.com

KORA ORGANICS GRADUAL SELF TANNING LOTION £40.95 An ultra-hydrating body moisturiser that builds a natural sun kissed glow, featuring nourishing rosehip and sea buckthorn oils and scented with the essential oils of lavender. parfumdreams.co.uk CHARLOTTE TILBURY UNISEX HEALTHY GLOW £35 Hydrating tinted moisturiser with bronzing tan pigments to give your complexion a natural-looking tan that morphs to your skin tone for the perfect looking glow. charlottetilbury.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all pricesand stockists are subject to change.

DR SEBAGH SELF TANNING DROPS £35 A couple of drops mixed with your daily moisturiser delivers a radiant and healthy looking, sun-free glow. drsebagh.com

SISLEY PARIS SELF TANNING HYDRATING FACIAL SKIN CARE £100 The perfect alternative to sun exposure, giving the skin a golden glow while deeply moisturising it. The skin is softer, more supple and luminous. sisley-paris.com

TAN-LUXE THE BUTTER £24 A luxurious, nourishing gradual tanner.

A multi-tasking, four-in-one skin treat that replenishes, hydrates, perfects and illuminates all while creating a gradual tan. tan-luxe.com

OMOROVICZA GLAM GLOW £39 This citrus-scented self-tanner reveals a natural-looking golden glow overnight.

Once the tan develops, your complexion appears healthy, rested and youthful. omorovicza.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

DIAMOND…

BY FITNESS PLUS

A new all-inclusive gym membership package that is tailored to transform your body and mind, is now available at Fitness Plus

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s one of the region’s leading gyms, Fitness Plus has introduced a new supercharged, elite-level Diamond Membership package.

Diamond Membership by Fitness Plus includes a weekly one-hour personal training session and a separate nutrition development session to allow Fitness Plus coaches to gain a full understanding of your goals, habits, lifestyle and experience. The coaches can then begin creating a bespoke training plan and nutrition programme based around your personal needs. On top of this, it gives Diamond members 24/7 access to the gym.

“This membership is for anyone looking to make a life-changing transformation in body

and mind over a three-month period with the total support of Fitness Plus,” explains owner and personal trainer Will Smith.

THIS IS OUR FIRST EVER ALL-INCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE THAT IS ABSOLUTELY TAILOR-MADE TO EACH INDIVIDUAL Fitness Plus on Kestor Lane, Longridge, is a long-established and popular gym that features state-of-the-art equipment including free weights, cardio and plate loaded machines – as well as having some of the region’s best personal trainers to help clients achieve their fitness goals. There is a newly stocked reception area featuring leading

fitness merchandise, a consultation area and modern showers and changing rooms.

The gym also has online learning resources relating to fitness and nutrition, and it even has its own Fitness Plus Gym app that members can download to check the gym’s capacity.

“Members can see how busy the gym is at any given time, which is great!” adds Will.

Fitness Plus also has a multitude of safety measures in place including temperature checkers, sanitisers, wipes and sprays so members can feel confident when they work-out. n For more information on how to apply for Diamond Membership and pricing go to: fitnessplusgym.co.uk or call 01772 366004

Fitness Plus Stonebridge Mill, Kestor Lane, Longridge PR3 3AD 01772 366004 info@fitnessplusgym.co.uk fitnessplusgym.co.uk

@FPGYMOFFICIAL

DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP

The Diamond Membership at Fitness Plus gives you elite level access to the facilities and our coaching services. This membership is for anyone looking to make a life changing transformation in body and mind over a 3-month period with the total support of Fitness Plus.

This all-inclusive membership leaves no stone unturned and is a guaranteed transformational result.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 1 Hour exercise based personal training session every week - where you will undergo a structural assessment, biomechanics test and be given a programme to follow in your own personal gym sessions.

30 Minute nutritional development session every week - To develop your understanding of nutrition and allow our coaches to review, progress and refine your current diet.

Full exercise and nutrition-based consultation - To allow our coaches to gain a full understanding of your goals, habits, lifestyle factors and experience. We can then begin creating a bespoke training plan and nutrition programme based around your needs.

3 Months of full 24/7 Platinum Access - Allowing you to train whenever you want.

Access to our learning resources - Such as our eBook series, commercial eating guides, Facebook & WhatsApp groups and 24/7 access to your coach.

Merchandise/Supplement package – This includes a Fitness Plus logbook, shaker bottle, T-shirt, 1kg of Whey and a 500g Creatine.

15% discount - On ALL products and supplements throughout your membership.

MyFitnessPal Premium - one year subscription.

Stonebridge Mill, Kestor Lane, Longridge, Lancashire, PR3 3AD

fitnessplusgym.co.uk info@fitnessplusgym.co.uk 01772 366 004

IMAGES SHOW RESULTS AFTER 3 WEEKS, BEST RESULT ACHIEVED AFTER 3 MONTHS

HOW TO DRAMATICALLY REDUCE AGEING AND REVERSE SUN DAMAGE WITHOUT GOING INVASIVE

Emma Pearce, founder of renowned non-invasive skin clinic EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd in Preston, talks us through the incredible results she achieves in reversing sun damage and ageing

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MA founder and aesthetic skin specialist Emma Pearce explains: “Ultraviolet rays from the sun damage your skin and cause up to 90 per cent of skin ageing.

This ‘photo-ageing’ causes premature ageing of your skin due to exposure to UV radiation. The sun’s heat also dries out areas of unprotected skin and depletes the skin’s supply of natural oils, so it really is terrible for making us look older.”

Emma has seen a concerning rise in sun damage causing significant ageing this year.

IMAGES SHOW RESULTS AFTER 3 WEEKS, BEST RESULT ACHIEVED AFTER 3 MONTHS

IMAGES SHOW RESULTS AFTER 3 WEEKS, BEST RESULT ACHIEVED AFTER 3 MONTHS

“Because we have been indoors all winter and in general through this pandemic, our skin is not used to the sun and has been acting very differently this year,” says Emma. “People have gone out in the sun all of a sudden

and I have seen so much ageing from sun damage, it really is alarming. The sun is the number one cause of premature ageing of the skin and the damage happens extremely quickly.”

Fortunately, Emma has come

to the rescue. “I wanted to share the fantastic results I have been achieving in reversing sun damage and ageing,” says Emma. “These astounding photos show the anti-ageing results my clients are experiencing after only two to

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three weeks. Full results aren’t achieved until three months, but you can see almost immediately my clients are looking fantastic and enjoying the benefits of these treatments! The final results are going to be mind-blowing!

“The Plasmapen Ultra is phenomenal for reversing sun damage and restoring your youthful looks. It tightens and erases 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 noninvasive solution that provides incredible and long-lasting results, this is the perfect treatment for you. My clients have been seeing visible results in just two weeks and final results are achieved after three months.

The results last up to three years and can last even longer.

“I have also been achieving amazing results with HyapenTM, the natural non-invasive volumiser for lips and the mouth region.

It’s perfect if you’re concerned about your lips thinning, and especially if you’re scared of needles,” says Emma. “It gently introduces hyaluronic acid fillers into the skin without a needle – there is no numbing needed and absolutely no down time. Hyapen and Plasmapen work so well together, they are my ultimate go-to combination.

“We never stop wanting to look our best,” says Emma.

“I have a client who is 85 who finally came to see me after

“I had aged overnight. One morning I woke up, looked in the mirror and realised I had all of a sudden just aged so much. It was an awful experience. It was particularly my lower face that had just gone, I felt so old. It was such a shock and completely affected my confidence. I had read EMA’s articles before and intended to do some treatments.

This just pushed me to do it earlier. I can honestly say it’s been the best decision I’ve made this year. Not only has Emma reversed the ageing process with Plasma and Hyapen, I actually look younger than I did before my wake up call. Thank you so much Emma and I’ll look forward to my next treatment.

Lydia M

reading several articles and she is thrilled with how great her skin looks now. Another client in her 70s whose husband never usually notices anything, has just commented on how great she looks after having the Plasma pen treatment.

“I’m hearing from lots of women from their mid-30s onwards suddenly noticing sagging jowls. They are so upset but have not known what to do about it. In my experience, Plasmapen is the only effective and lasting solution for sagging jowls and I am so happy to be able to provide this.

“Plasmapen Ultra is state-ofthe-art non-invasive technology.

It gives you the fantastic skin confidence you want without any invasive surgery. I want everyone to feel as good as my clients do. That’s why I am bringing Live readers a best ever, one-time-only offer so I can reverse the misery of sun damage, sagging and ageing for as many people as possible.” n

SPECIAL OFFERS! Plasmapen Ultra treatments starting from £250 per area.

Emma is offering Live readers a sun rescue one-time-only offer of an incredible £195 off the price of each area until 4th August 2021!

Hyapen non-invasive filler starting from £200. Emma is offering Live readers 10% off until 4th August 2021.

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

PAIN RELIEF DOESN’T HAPPEN BY CHANCE IT HAPPENS BY APPOINTMENT

Performance Centre With access to our physiotherapy clinics you no longer need to deal with lockdown pain. Dedicated to keeping you safe, with measures in place, our team of trained physiotherapist’s will soon get you on the road to recovery, so you can go back to normal activities.

Join teaMM in your process to optimal movement and a pain free future.

Pain relief doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment. mmphysiotherapy.co.uk Whalley: 07951 350 070

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

health&beauty

NATURAL BUT NOTICEABLE

a tightening effect on the skin, smoothing wrinkles. An hour-long process that combines a deep level of micro-needling with radiofrequency, Morpheus8 helps boost collagen, leaving the skin rejuvenated.

Dr Natalie, who pursued a career as a women’s health surgeon working at various North West hospitals, before training in aesthetic medicine.

“The Dr Natalie Clinic offers a holistic approach to aesthetics, working with our patients to provide bespoke treatments unique to them. The aim is to achieve natural results that make skin look noticeably fresher and rejuvenated.

THE AIM IS TO ACHIEVE NATURAL RESULTS THAT MAKE SKIN LOOK NOTICEABLY FRESHER AND REJUVENATED

Dr Natalie Walsh, a leading aesthetics physician, has opened “In addition to non-surgical treatments, a new practice in Whalley our offering includes premium skin care

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ith a focus on natural but noticeable results, Dr Natalie Walsh specialises in corrections, non-surgical rhinoplasty and youthful rejuvenation, with safety and aftercare at the forefront.

Having treated thousands of patients at clinics across the UK, including the acclaimed Harley Street, Dr Natalie is bringing the prestige of premium aesthetics to her new clinic in Whalley.

The opening of the Whalley clinic follows an increase in demand for Dr Natalie’s esteemed aesthetic methods: “Demand for premium aesthetics has risen considerably and to accommodate the increase in patients I am delighted to open a dedicated clinic in the beautiful town of Whalley,” explains

ranges, comprising ZO, Heliocare and Skinceuticals, along with more advanced technology including Morpheus8 and Lumecca from Inmode.”

Morpheus8 is hailed as the skin saviour, with celebrities including Judy Murray and Amanda Holden raving about the skin smoothing effects of the treatment.

Dr Natalie explains: “Mopheus8 is a fractional skin treatment that remodels the face by moulding the fat and stimulating collagen production. This can truly give you the appearance of a facelift without the knife.

This revolutionary technology targets the deeper layers of the skin. The building blocks then reorganise themselves in a natural anti-ageing process leaving the skin firm, plump and fine lines visibly reduced.”

Helping reduce acne scars, stretch marks and sun damage, the treatment also offers

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Treatment is recommended every 12-18 months.

Whalley’s resident skin therapist and make-up artist, Rebecca Haworth-Slater, from Bec & Co, joins the Dr Natalie Clinic as senior therapist providing indulgent skin therapy treatments including ZO skincare, facials, peels and skin needling.

Dr Natalie and Bec are joined by Georgia Ingham, a junior therapist, who will support the team in delivering best in practice aesthetics and practice manager Stephanie Wearden.

Dr Natalie will continue to offer services at associate clinics across the UK including Harley Street alongside her main practice in Whalley. n

Dr Natalie Clinics

Nymrod House

85 King Street

Whalley BB7 9SW

01200 871227 drnatalie.co.uk

Dr Natalie

@drnatalieclinics

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health&beauty

WORLD CLASS With a pool, gym, fitness studio and world class tennis dome, the facilities at Stonyhurst College Sports Centre are unrivalled

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tonyhurst Sports Centre is situated within the grounds of Stonyhurst College, in the heart of the Ribble Valley, and offers a wide range of sports and state-of-the-art facilities to members throughout the local area. Whether you are interested in getting fit and healthy, losing weight or socialising, the family-friendly atmosphere ensures there is something for everyone.

The swimming pool is very much at the heart of the Stonyhurst Sports Centre, with a gym overlooking the pool area, and a viewing balcony and cafe for parents and supporters. Swimming is a vital life skill which everyone should learn, whatever their age. Whether you have never been swimming before, or your goal is to improve technique, Stonyhurst Sports Centre offers swimming lessons for all abilities.

Over the past few years, the Stonyhurst Sports Centre has grown considerably to include an all-weather pitch, world-class

tennis dome, multi-functional gym and fitness studio.

The fitness centre operates on two levels and offers everything necessary to complete a full work out. Air-conditioning, 37 fitness stations, six televisions, mood lighting to

synthetic all-weather-pitch is floodlit and available to hire as a full or half pitch for team sports such as football, hockey, netball or rugby.

Here at Stonyhurst we pride ourselves on helping our members to find the perfect way to keep active. Our fitness classes run throughout the week and are available to members and non-members on a pay as you go basis.

WE CREATE A POSITIVE AND PRODUCTIVE ATMOSPHERE IN WHICH TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH, FITNESS AND WELLBEING Our friendly, helpful and qualified staff are always ready to help each member achieve their personal goals. We create a positive and productive atmosphere in which to improve your health, fitness and wellbeing.

Download your free seven-day pass from the Sports Centre website to sample the facilities. Alternatively, feel free to contact the Sports Centre to speak to a member of the team about the range of membership options available. n To enquire about our facilities or to discuss membership options with one of the team, please visit our website at: sportscentre.stonyhurst.ac.uk or call now on 01254 827015

enhance the fitness experience along with qualified and professional staff make achieving goals more obtainable.

Beyond the facilities, Stonyhurst Sports Centre also offer lifeguard courses, tennis, rugby and multi-sports camps, fitness classes and tennis court and pool hire. The 3G

Stonyhurst Sports Centre Stonyhurst, Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827015 sportscentre.stonyhurst.ac.uk

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LOVING THE SKIN YOU’RE IN...

Anti-ageing skincare, does it exist and does it work?

Happily, the answer is yes, but time and again the science comes back to three, clinically proven, key ingredients – Vitamin C, sunscreen and Vitamin A

NEXT IN YOUR ARSENAL IS SUNSCREEN: SPF is the most powerful anti-ageing weapon there is – and it is clinically proven, so no argument there. Although if you are younger, you might argue that SPF belongs in the ‘prevention’ category. You also want to ensure that it is broad spectrum, environmentally clean and photostable.

It doesn’t fix any damage that is already done – that’s the job of Vitamin A.

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he truth behind whether a topical skin product works or not comes down to the ingredients it’s packed with, how that product is formulated and whether or not they contain high enough levels of the active key ingredients to be of any value to the skin.

The point of anti-ageing skincare is to make older, possibly damaged, skin behave in a younger and healthier way and this is how these three key ingredients do it.

FIRST UP IS VITAMIN C: This is one of the most powerful vitamins for preventing the signs of ageing and reversing the signs of skin damage. It is an exceptional antioxidant which protects your skin throughout the day from free radical attack caused by pollutants and it also disrupts the formation of melanin, so helps prevent age spots and promotes even skin tone. It is essential for the formation of collagen – which in turn prevents lines and wrinkles. So, no Vitamin C – no collagen!

behave in a younger and healthier way – and so with continued use, you can expect your skin to be smoother brighter and firmer.

But choose your Vitamin A with care – and use it wisely! All Vitamin A products should be phased in over a period of four weeks.

Melt have partnered with Medik8, Nourish and Dr Haushka and are specialists in skincare which is scientifically proven to help ageing skin look younger.

More importantly, they can help 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.

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

Melt are also stockists of Powder, Chalk, niche perfumes, cashmere, jewellery and more.

Retail outlet, Chandlery and Reading Room open seven days a week. 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon-4.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays

THE POWERHOUSE THAT IS VITAMIN A: Hailed as the gold-standard in anti-ageing, Vitamin A (a retinoid) is one of the most well proven ingredients in skincare. It is the only other ingredient along with SPF that is legally allowed to claim to be anti-ageing.

As we age, loss of Vitamin A and collagen helps create those signs of ageing such as wrinkles and a dull complexion. But retinoids (Vitamin A) can help reverse this.

It rebuilds collagen, increases cell turnover, targets hyperpigmentation, tackles acne, refines skin texture, repairs sun damage, targets wrinkles – and is an all-round good egg.

Essentially, it challenges ageing skin to

Melt Backridge Farm Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 www.themeltco.com /meltcandles themeltco @meltcandles

RVBA Small Business Award 2018 Independent Retailer 2017 Artisan Business 2017

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health&beauty

EYELID LIFT SURGERY IS NOW AVAILABLE IN CLITHEROE Upper blepharoplasty or eyelid lift surgery is the only effective way to deal with saggy eyelids

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ave you spent time in lockdown over the past year looking at yourself on Zoom calls, or in the mirror, and thought, ‘I really hate my eyes.

I wish I could sort out those loose, saggy upper eyelids!’ Or are you finding that heavy upper eyelids are beginning to affect your vision?

RejuvaMed in Clitheroe has the solution. Mr Vikesh Patel, consultant oculoplastic surgeon at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, has brought 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 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.You will be in and out of our Covid-secure, CQC-registered clinic within a couple of hours, and our fixed price package includes two follow-up appointments.

If you are considering eyelid surgery we would recommend that you always choose a specialist consultant oculoplastic

surgeon. Mr Patel operates only on, or around, the eye area.

Mr Patel is offering consultation at a price of just £150. During this 30 minute appointment he will undertake a full assessment and discuss treatment solutions with you. Appointments and surgery are usually available within two weeks.

The cost of surgery (upper blepharoplasty) is just £2695 (compare this to £3980 at a Manchester clinic).

For more information, or to book a consultation with Mr Patel, please call 01200 538668 or email the clinic at: info@rejuvamed.co.uk

SHAPE UP WITH OUR MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES with our Morpheus8 and 3D

Are diets and exercise not working? Do you need Lipo Ultimate Pro systems, which help shift stubborn pockets that extra bit of help losing weight?

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ultiple lockdowns have brought an unwelcome increase in weight for many. At RejuvaMed’s specialist medical weight loss centre we offer two effective medical weight loss solutions.

If you’ve tried every diet available, and now need some help with losing excess weight,

then RejuvaMed has the answers!

The first is the Elipse gastric balloon, which 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 a 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. The balloon

£200 OFF THE ELIPSE GASTRIC BALLOON UNTIL AUGUST 2021

helps prevent over-eating, and snacking in between meals.

The programme is incredibly effective at helping participants keep weight off after the balloon deflates.

A consultation with medical director Dr Grant McKeating is required to discuss our medical weight loss options, the second of which is daily or weekly prescription medication which suppresses appetite and assists with effective weight loss.

If the Elipse balloon is not the right solution for you, then medication may well be an effective alternative.

Once you’re on the way to losing that excess weight then you can think about body sculpting and skin tightening,

of fat, and tighten loose skin, all without surgery.

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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buying a ‘topper’ initially to try the look out and see how it feels. If they are happy with this, we can then turn this into a more semi-permanent solution,” says Cass.

The mesh integration system can also be applied to just the perimeter: “Some clients have no need for a hair loss solution on top and it is possible to integrate mesh just around the sides and back of the head allowing extensions to be added to hair that wouldn’t normally be able to take them,” Cass further explains.

IT GIVES ME A HUGE AMOUNT OF SATISFACTION BEING ABLE TO OFFER SUCH A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE SEEING CLIENTS REGAINING THEIR SELF-ESTEEM

EXTENDING THE BOUNDARIES Cass Preston of The Volume Clinic has a wealth of experience in providing solutions for those suffering hair loss problems, writes Gail Bailey

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air loss or thinning hair can be incredibly distressing for the individual and have a huge emotional impact on well-being and confidence. Cass Preston based at her Volume Clinic in Brockhall Village has a vast knowledge in this area of hair care, styling and solutions: “It gives me a huge amount of satisfaction in being able to offer such a life-changing experience in the salon and in seeing clients looking their best and regaining their self-esteem,” she says.

The Volume Clinic recognise the wide range of reasons that can cause hair loss.

As Cass explains: “Hair loss, or thinning, is often a result of cancer treatment, alopecia, hormone treatments or can even be hereditary, it is so difficult for the person involved, and it is important to offer a personalised service to find the most suitable solution.”

The Volume Clinic offer a mesh integration system which involves blending

existing hair with real hair that is attached to a custom-made ‘unit’ – it is ultra-fine and shaped to fit cleverly and discreetly to the head. Colour-matched to the hair, it achieves a seamless, natural appearance and creates thickness and volume from the top. Furthermore, being hypoallergenic and breathable, it feels just the same as natural hair would – ideal for those for whom extensions are not a solution.

The mesh integration system is long lasting but does require re-visiting every six to eight weeks for maintenance: “We appreciate the commitment for the client of the mesh system, and for this reason often suggest

Managing the health of the hair is an important first step and The Volume Clinic also offer a micro-scoping service. Cass says: “Micro-scoping the scalp allows us to assess if there are any ongoing issues underlying hair health, such as the condition of the hair follicles, and that further allows us to suggest products to help.” Some of the products recommended by the salon are Nioxin, specially formulated to treat a wide variety of thinning and hair loss problems, and new Alterna Caviar Clinical range which uses a blend of natural products designed to gently moisturize and purify the scalp and encourage naturally fuller hair that appears and feels denser.

The Volume Clinic is a tranquil, luxurious space that allows complete client privacy. As Cass has over 30 years industry experience, it is not only the perfect place for practical, modern solutions for hair loss – it is also ideal for all your hairdressing needs. n For further information and appointments call 01254 823333 or email: hello@thevolumeclinic.co.uk

The Volume Clinic 2 Eden Gardens, Brockhall Village Old Langho BB6 8HW 01254 823333 thevolumeclinic.co.uk

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spotlightonlongridge

SUMMERTIME IN LONGRIDGE If you live in the Ribble Valley you will undoubtedly be aware of all that Longridge has to offer. With its independent businesses it’s definitely a great place to visit!

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s it sits on a hilltop, or long ridge, the town of Longridge has breath-taking views across the surrounding rural Ribble Valley.

With a Heritage and Visitor Centre located in the Old Station, in the centre of the town, Longridge is famed for its high street, Berry Lane, which features many and varied independent businesses.

It is very much the hub of the town with a thriving selection of shops including longstanding family businesses and more recent arrivals.

Recent additions to the high street include Tails of the Town, a quirky eco-friendly pet food and accessories shop that’s sure to thrive, given how much we all love our pets!

Touchwood Flooring have also just moved on to Berry Lane with their stunning collection of solid wood and luxury vinyl flooring as well as a great selection of locally-manufactured and eco-friendly carpets.

Famed for its high quality household goods is Swifts Hardware that was recently hit by a serious fire. However, showing the agility and determination that got many

businesses through lockdown, this family business is continuing to trade from the back of the shop and neighbouring business Pipkins is trading through a series of pop-up shops.

It’s essential that the surrounding communities supports independent businesses like these to ensure that they continue to succeed.

IT’S ESSENTIAL THAT THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES SUPPORTS INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES LIKE THESE Also on Berry Lane are a good number of service businesses including chartered accountants, business advisers and financial advisers, who have many years’ experience helping local businesses and individuals plan for the future.

With new places to eat and new businesses opening their doors, Longridge is once again flourishing and it’s great to see shoppers enjoying and appreciating all that the town has to offer. n

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WE HAVE IT COVERED From seagrass to super-soft velvet, traditional solid wood to ultra-luxurious vinyl, Touchwood Flooring has it all!

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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estament to their many years’ experience supplying and fitting first-class flooring, Belinda Tolenaar and business partner Daniel Hodson have expanded the respected Touchwood Flooring Company, moving into a beautifully presented studio in Berry Lane, Longridge.

Specialising in flooring of all types – including Karndean Design Flooring, real wood, laminates, luxury vinyl and sumptuous carpets, the move to their new showroom has enabled Touchwood to offer their growing number of customers even more choice.

Keen to deal with local manufactures such as Cormar and Cavalier, Touchwood Flooring also stocks Brockway, a company which uses locally-sourced wool from rare-breed sheep in the Lake District.

The spectacular collection, curated personally by Belinda, also includes wool

and silk carpet made in India, sisal and seagrass and super-soft velvet carpet.

“At Touchwood we like to help customers visualise their new floor – sometimes being taken out of their comfort zone to explore all options,” explains Belinda, who has a keen eye for detail.

“We will also advise on installation and

any sub-floor preparation requirements – our in-house team are fully certified and experienced in all aspects of flooring installation.”

FROM QUIRKY TO CLASSIC, THIS FLOORING COMPANY WILL CERTAINLY ADD A TOUCH OF LUXURIOUS STYLE TO YOUR HOME From quirky to classic, this flooring company will certainly add a touch of luxurious style to your home. Call in to meet Belinda and her team at the welcoming new showroom, where there are numerous displays and samples to view. n

Touchwood Flooring have the only Karndean Select showroom in the North West of England

Touchwood Flooring 18-20 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3JA 01772 378300

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spotlightonlongridge

PAMPER YOUR PET Quirky, exciting and most definitely different, eco-friendly Tails of the Town features everything that your pet could possibly wish for!

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egistered Veterinary Nurse Kirsty Mullen is behind a fabulous new pet food and accessories store on Berry Lane.

Kirsty, who has worked with animals for more than a decade, opened her eco-friendly shop, Tails of the Town, a few months ago

and it is already proving a great hit with pet-owners and their pets!

With green credentials, Tails of the Town minimises plastic encouraging pet-owners to weigh out loose food in their own containers.

Pet food and treats, such as Frozzys dog yoghurt, are all-natural and most nutraceuticals and treatments, such as pet shampoos are also naturally formulated.

At the rear of the shop is a nail clipping and tick removal area, for all animals from dogs and cats to birds and tortoises, and Kirsty also does home visits as required.

The shop also features a quirky pet photo-booth that Kirsty has themed, enabling

G. ROW LES

M A S T E R B U TC H E R S D E L I C AT E S S E N Locally sourced produce from the Ribble Valley

owners to have their pet photographed at significant milestones, in fun surroundings.

Photos are then emailed out or printed on request for owners to cherish.

For any advice on pet care and nutrition, pop into the shop to chat to Kirsty, who is always happy to help.

Outside the shop, which proudly supports Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, are complimentary dog-poo bags and a watering station for pets. n

Tails of the Town 82 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3WH 01772 437753

Greenwoods

Vehicle Re-finishers

BODY WORK INSURANCE ACCIDENT REPAIR PAINT SPRAYING

T H E B U TC H E R S

A L L O U R M E AT I S LO C A L LY S O U RC E D Locally sourced Longridge local spring Lamb BeeF • Gammon joints • Homemade burgers • Kebabs & huge variety of Sausage’s

T H E D E L I C AT E S S E N D A I LY S PE C I A L S

• Hot and cold sandwiches for breakfast and lunch • Paninis • Local cheeses • Salad boxes • Wide range of pies and pastries • Large family pies to order • Homemade sausage rolls • Award winning pork pies 6 Inglewhite Road Longridge Preston PR3 3JR 01772 786308

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

01772 784 974 sales@gvrf.co.uk www.gvrf.co.uk Kestor Lane Longridge Preston PR3 3AD

spotlightonlongridge

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MEET THE TEAM McDade Roberts Chartered Accountants has had a home in Longridge since 2002 alongside its other offices is Bamber Bridge and Fulwood, Preston.

We meet its latest director Christine Richards

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hristine Richards, the latest director to be appointed within the growing business has been a member of the team since 2007. Her career has grown alongside the McDade Roberts business and now Christine is looking forward to brighter times ahead for all businesses in the area.

Following a 13-year career with McDade Roberts, Christine became a director and shareholder of the business in April 2020.

Christine explains: “I started as an accounts trainee, then progressed through the business to become the manager of the Longridge branch before being appointed a director last April.

I love our team at McDade Roberts. We all work very hard, but we also know how to be friendly and approachable which is very important to me.”

Christine has shown dedication to learning throughout her career and became a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) in 2012. She has extensive experience working with a wide range of businesses, including her specialisms of agriculture and construction and is now in the process of taking on more of Philip McDade’s clients.

Philip, one of the original founders of at McDade Roberts welcomes Christine’s input to his client’s businesses. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Christine over the years and know that my clients will be in very safe hands as I continue to reduce my hours with a view to retirement. Succession planning is vital and something we have

helped many businesses with over the years so now it is my turn. I know Christine is up for whatever challenges the business community face post Covid and I agree that there are bright times ahead for

of her free time. Her family background is in farming with her father being a gamekeeper and she has a keen interest in rural pursuits. Out of work, Christine enjoys running, long walks with her family and is a keen reader and member of a book club.

I KNOW CHRISTINE IS UP FOR WHATEVER CHALLENGES THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY FACE POST COVID AND I AGREE THAT THERE ARE BRIGHT TIMES AHEAD

McDade Roberts, as well as the local business community.”

Christine was born and still lives in Hurst Green, where two young children take up most

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers 98% of our clients rate our helpfulness, communication, ease of contact and trust they place in us as good or excellent. *

Call for a no obligation meeting to see for yourself.

* Source: December 2019 Client Satisfaction Survey

Longridge Office, Chapel Hill, Longridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR3 3JY T 01772 786 858 | Offices also at Fulwood and Bamber Bridge W www.mcdaderoberts.co.uk E office@mcdaderoberts.co.uk

Christine is equally at home in a pair of wellies as she is in a boardroom and her down to earth and approachable style is synonymous with what makes McDade Roberts such a trusted partner for hundreds of Lancashire businesses.

If you would like to contact McDade Roberts to see how its approachable style and no nonsense attitude to accounting could help you to manage and grow your business, offer advice on succession planning, retirement planning or managing your wealth, just give its office a call. The first consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose. n To get in touch with Christine, you can email her on: christinerichards@mcdaderoberts. co.uk or call the Longridge office on 01772 786858 and she will be more than happy to have a chat

mcdaderoberts.co.uk

HIS MASTER’S STEPS:

LANGDEN TO BLEASDALE

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Fell walker and Ribble Valley historian Andrew Stachulski follows a famous crossing of Bowland in the footsteps of Wainwright

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lfred Wainwright’s ‘A Bowland Sketchbook’, published in 1981 when the author was into his seventies, is probably one of his least known books, but it definitely carries the old master’s stamp. He describes just three walks in what is largely an introductory text to the whole region, but how characteristic they are – a visit to the highest point, a north-south traverse through the very heart of Bowland and the watershed crossing (Ribble-Wyre) which is the subject of this article. It is indeed a splendid walk, only seven miles in length but with some steep gradients, demanding ground, especially in wet weather, and some memorable scenery. It would make an excellent two car walk, if two parties could make suitable arrangements.

THE LANGDEN VALLEY, WHICH BEFORE LONG, BEARS COMPARISON WITH A SCOTTISH GLEN Assuming a start from the north east, park on the Trough Road at Langden intake, where there is ample off-road parking and frequently a mobile snack bar.

Carry on down the pleasant, tree lined avenue, pass the water bailiff’s house and keep to the clear rough track ahead, entering the impressive Langden Valley which before long, bears comparison with a Scottish glen.

About two miles ahead, with all traces of road and outside world now out of sight, you meet the remarkable Langden Castle.

Truly, no castle at all, but an old shooting lodge with a difference, with its Gothic arch windows. It is a most welcome refuge in bad weather.

Keep straight ahead here, the stream crossing to the left of the castle belongs to another walk, which takes you up Bleasdale Water and eventually onto the main Fair Snape Fell ridge. Instead, you cross the stream about half-a-mile further on where it is much lower, then proceed quite steeply south-south west up the fine narrow valley of Fiendsdale. The sketchy but sufficient track climbs steadily onto the plateau, a typical high Bowland panorama

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of sweeping moorland with more distant heights soon coming into view, and most likely the soulful cries of red grouse borne on the wind.

This is the most demanding section.

Do be sensible and note that in poor weather, including mist, a good sense of direction is called for here – compass at

CONTINUE ROUGHLY SOUTH TO REACH THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST EADMER the ready! When you approach the old county boundary fence, there is a particularly boggy patch to negotiate. Once across, the ground slowly begins to improve. To the left, going up parallel with the fence, is another path leading to Fair Snape summit, but we keep straight on and before long the ground begins to decline. Follow what is by now a good clear track, descending south west to reach the intake wall. The flat country of the Fylde is ahead now, a complete contrast to the high moorland just crossed, while the great bulk of Fair Snape dominates to the left.

When you drop to the farm road below, there is a choice. Wainwright’s original route turned left at this point, proceeding via Holme House Farm then continuing roughly south, reaching the parish church of St Eadmer (pictured) in about threequarters of a mile near a junction. From here a private road, but public footpath, takes you easily over to emerge onto the public road by Higher Brock Mill. Alas, the café of Wainwright’s day has long since disappeared, but it still makes a natural finishing point with space for parking.

A good alternative, finishing on the road to Oakenclough, calls for turning right at the above-mentioned point, then following a good track for about half-a-mile until you reach Clough Head cottages. Turn right ahead, passing the fine Victorian edifice of Bleasdale Tower situated among pleasant trees. Continue along the lane, past Fell End Farm, and soon emerge onto the road. There is a convenient small car park a few hundred yards down the road on the left. n Photography: Courtesy of Jean E Fone of Bleasdale Heritage Group

Andrew Stachulski is co-author with Helen Shaw of ‘The Forest of Bowland’, published by Merlin Unwin @ £14.99

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lifestyle

This is a fantastic ride with the beautiful Forest of Bowland forming a spectacular backdrop for a trip over the Trough of Bowland. By conquering this climb you will be following in the footsteps of Tour of Britain riders as this iconic limb is a regular feature when the race visits the North West

SCORTON CAFÉ STOP VIA WHITEWELL AND THE TROUGH OF BOWLAND Route: 26.81miles / 43.14km Elevation: 523.95m / 1719ft Difficulty: 3.5 / 5 connect.garmin.com/modern/ course/62860215

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

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his ride starts at Ribble Cycle’s brand new Clitheroe showroom at Barrow Brook Village off the A59. From the showroom head to the roundabout and take the right exit onto Hey Road, then first right into Oak Lea Gardens. See the path at the end?

Take it and turn left onto Whalley Road. Continue until you reach the mini roundabout signposted for Whalley Railway Station.

Turn right to pass the station and follow the B5246 as it gently ascends out of Whalley. Continue all the way to its junction with the B6243 where you turn right.

Follow the road until you reach a sharp right bend with a signpost indicating a turn for the Trough to the left.

Turn left onto a quiet country lane follow it to the end where it merges and bear left for a climb of easy to moderate intensity all the way to Cow Ark. Continue past Browsholme Hall and shortly thereafter the road veers left and you summit the climb to be met by a signpost indicating that Whitewell lies off to your right.

Turn right for a short sharp climb before the road eases off and you descend gently into Whitewell. Upon entering the village, the road forks, take the

right fork and follow the road as it criss-crosses the River Hodder on its way towards Dunsop Bridge.

Upon entering Dunsop, you will encounter a large house with a signposted left turn. Turn left here and enjoy the views as the road undulates up towards the Trough. Soon enough you will see the pass that cleaves the fells in two and the climb begins in earnest.

Look for the S-bend ahead where it’s at its steepest and get in a

nice low gear. The cattle grid ahead signifies the end of the climb and the hard work is done.

On a clear day you will be treated to some wonderful views of the Lakes. Continue until you reach a lane veering off to the left with a signpost that indicates that Scorton is a mere six-and-a-half miles ahead. Follow this road all the way into Scorton for a well-deserved coffee and cake. n

ribblecycles.co.uk

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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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Why not pay a visit to the new show ground or call the friendly, helpful staff for more details.

Three Rivers Woodland Park, Eaves Hall Lane, West Bradford, Clitheroe, BB7 3JG.

01200 423523

www.threeriverspark.co.uk • enquiries@threeriverspark.co.uk

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

lifestyle

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BLENDED FAMILIES AND WILL DISPUTES Blended families are the fastest growing type of household in the UK but many haven’t considered the implications this can have when it comes to inheritance, explains Rachel Harrison, contentious probate specialist at Farleys this, however, a lack of discussion on the topic with loved ones before they pass away can cause stress, arguments and possibly even legal action if a step-child feels they have been unfairly excluded.

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ouseholds made up of a couple living with their own children, as well as children from previous relationships have increased by three quarters over the last 20 years according to the Office for National Statistics. While many live successfully in this blended set-up, unexpected problems can arise on the death of a step-parent.

Statistics show that 32 per cent of stepparents currently have a will which does not treat their children and step children equally while 17 per cent plan to exclude their step-children completely. There can be a number of perfectly valid reasons why a step-parent would choose to do

A LACK OF DISCUSSION ON THE TOPIC WITH LOVED ONES BEFORE THEY PASS AWAY CAN CAUSE STRESS, ARGUMENTS AND POSSIBLY EVEN LEGAL ACTION On the other side of things, step-parents who have no will in place may believe their step-child will automatically be entitled to a share of their estate alongside a spouse and/or blood relative. However, this is not the case. If you fail to make a will, your step-children will not be entitled to anything and may have to formally dispute the will to receive a share of your estate.

It is also important to remember that a marriage will invalidate any previous will

that has been drafted. If you had made provisions for your partner’s children in your will but have since married your partner, your step-children could miss out if you don’t update it.

Will disputes have been on the rise over the past few years and the increase is thought to be a combination of new family set-ups like blended families and cohabiting couples alongside the rising costs of property increasing the size of the estates people are laying claim to. n

For comprehensive, tailored legal advice on disputes over wills, please contact Farleys’ contentious probate team today on 01254 368040 or email: info@farleys.com You can also find more useful information on our website: www.farleys.com

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lifestyle they were riding. Some of the most notable include: • Hold the reins with a lightness of hand, but be ready to go from concrete to feathers in a split second.

• Ride at a jump as if you were going to refuse.

• Go uphill on the diagonal, down in a straight line.

IN THE SADDLE The mum of a Chipping Pony Club member reports on the day her daughter spent with legendary cross-country rider Lucinda Green MBE. Photography by Shutter Bugz

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ne of Chipping Pony Club members, Sarah, had a fantastic opportunity recently to have a cross-country lesson from the six-time Badminton winner, World Champion and double-European Champion, Lucinda Green MBE. Sarah herself described it as ‘the best day of the year so far’ and was ecstatic to be given the lesson of a lifetime to aid both herself and her Irish sports horse, Ellie, in their journey and partnership.

A series of canter exercises served as a way for Lucinda to check out rider partnerships, followed by a walk-only exercise that saw the riders travel up, across and down a bank maintaining a consistent speed, an activity requiring control and discipline. Sarah

described the instruction as forthright yet refreshing, served with a side order of praise! There was attention to detail with sound reasoning, patiently explained in support of why such care and preparation should occur in this fast-paced, competitive sport. Lucinda’s care and love for these four-legged friends is, in itself, inspirational, as she went round adjusting tack and getting to know each horse.

One piece of advice is remembered as ‘cuddle rather than hug with your legs’, with Sarah going onto relate that this provides a constant awareness to the horse to give them confidence.

Lucinda never refrained from wanting to support these riders and educate them, providing a range of top tips all the time

The jumping challenges were varied, zig zagging over ditches, logs, roll tops and a water complex, making the most of the undulating grassroots’ field in front of the splendid Kelsall Hill facilities. Opportunities were offered to ride a route again if it didn’t quite go right the first time, nothing was too much trouble. Towards the end, the riders were encouraged to choose their own jumps and lines, but with the ever-present enthusiasm and guidance from this stalwart of the eventing world.

A warm-down and final chat, allowing the horses to cool off, enabled further stories to be woven and questions to be answered, a message of faith in upholding eventing’s most daring of phases, to an audience of believers who drank in her words. Being told you should be ‘proud of your daughter, and tell her so,’ by this hugely-admired icon was beyond words.

Well done Sarah, your mum is very proud! n

If you’d like to know more about Pony Club, and in particular Chipping Branch, please contact the District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 01200 445143 or email: chipping@pcuk.org

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A WONDERFUL ASCOT OF NEAR MISSES… Only 12,000 lucky people each day were able to be at Ascot this year but in many ways it was one of the best ever, writes Jason Fildes of Highclere.

Photography: Steven Cargill

Highclere had seven runners at the meeting, which meant that over 100 owners could be present. Every day there was a Tattinger picnic in the car park before racing so everyone could meet up and have a couple of nerve-settling sharpeners.

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scot is always the finest flat racing festival but this year it was also a return to the sort of racing experience we once took for granted.

As an official ‘test event’, everyone had taken a Covid test prior to arrival so, once in the racecourse there was no need for social distancing and limited use of masks.

It meant an almost ‘normal’ return to meeting old friends, sharing a tip, having fun and a few drinks together while enjoying superb racing. And that’s before the party at the bandstand started after it was all over each day!

THERE WAS A TATTINGER PICNIC IN THE CAR PARK BEFORE RACING SO EVERYONE COULD MEET UP AND HAVE A COUPLE OF NERVE-SETTLING SHARPENERS It was so good to see owners from all over the country who we had only been able to be in touch with via Zoom and phone over the last year.

Suddenly we were all there together again in party mode and sharing the excitement of having a runner in a big race.

Although we didn’t have a winner, Title

and Parachute both finished third, Thunderous was a mighty fourth in the Hardwicke Stakes and Cachet fifth in the Albany Stakes.

All of them ran with huge credit and will certainly be winning other races throughout the summer.

We are hoping to have a big team of runners at the Ebor meeting at York in August – there are also plans for more Highclere picnics during the four days. Flat racing is a fabulous, sociable sport and we’re certainly going to make the most of it now we’re allowed to! n

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

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lifestyle

HOME TRUTHS

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ummer is here and at last we can all sit outside without the fear of hypothermia! I love going into my Pendleton garden and seeing the flowers blooming and birds swinging into the feeder station. April and May were so depressingly cold, I never thought we would see summer, but here it is!

Also, its great so see crowds, limited as they are, going back into stadiums for Euro 2020. While I am hugely disappointed that we are not seeing a full easing of lockdown this June, I am grateful for the further relaxations on weddings and wakes. At least weddings are no longer limited to the impossibly low number of 30 – and I know this is a huge boost to the amazing wedding venues we have in the Ribble Valley. They have suffered enormously and this has had huge consequential damage to other allied businesses which rely on the wedding trade such as flowers, cakes, food and drink, laundry and accommodation. A real shot in the arm for local business.

Another shot in the arm was my second jab at Blackburn Cathedral.

A huge thank you to Dot and Lisa for administering it. My researcher, Jack Buller, 23, proudly told me he has already booked both his jabs. I know there are still a few people out there reticent about getting vaccinated, but can I reassure you that all the data shows that with this new wave, the vaccines are hugely effective in protecting against severe illness, hospitalisation and death. If you have not already done so, book via the NHS website or consult your GP. A few people have consulted me over plans to alter the Parliamentary constituency under proposals via the Boundary Commission. Please consult how it may impact on you via the Boundary Commission for England website and you may give your views by sending them via their website response portal or send them to me at the House of Commons.

I sat in the Chair of the Commons for a debate on the appalling

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans welcomes the arrival of summer and encourages everyone to get out and about in a bid to support local shops and businesses

consequences that some journalists face by simply reporting the news. At the end of the debate, I was able to send good luck to our newest news channel, GBNews and point out that many of their seasoned journalists are greatly respected. We are lucky to live in a free country where you can report critical aspects of the news without fear of being arrested.

I know many businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic but on Clitheroe Market traders tell me they have witnessed a surge in trade. This is music to my ears. I hear as well that the Three Fishes in Mitton is about to be given a new lease of life. The Ribble Valley is truly a magnet for the hospitality trade where local pubs, hotels and restaurants serve the very highest quality local food providing employment and trade for other businesses.

We have also seen new businesses opening up so please, as we see a huge beam of light at the end of the tunnel, let’s all do our bit and give them our custom and support. n

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FINANCIAL ENTITLEMENT ON DIVORCE Reaching a financial settlement following a marriage breakdown can be complex and stressful so it’s vital to consult the experts, advises family law specialist Adrienne Baker

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pon facing the realities of a marriage breakdown, Forbes’ family team find that clients’ main concerns are that of the matrimonial finances. Whether you are the party wanting to protect assets or the party in a more vulnerable financial position, you will want to know what a financial agreement will look like for you.

What you will be entitled to will depend on the complexity of the case and it’s not always a straightforward answer. Below are answers to questions you may have considered if you are contemplating a divorce.

1. What is a financial settlement?

An agreement designed to fairly separate your finances upon the breakdown of the marriage. If an agreement can be reached within divorce proceedings, a Consent Order recording the agreement could be sent to the court for a judge’s approval. If the judge deems the agreement fair, the order becomes a legally binding document.

The benefit of a Court Order means your ex would not be able to make any further financial claims against you in the future.

2. How to prepare for a financial settlement You should attempt to get your finances in order at the earliest opportunity, have discussions about how any financial obligations will continue to be paid and start to collate your financial information. Parties are under a duty to provide each other with ‘full and frank disclosure’.Your legal representative will be able to provide you with an extensive list of what disclosure will be required based upon your individual circumstances.

3. What assets will be considered?

All assets that each party own whether individually, jointly with each other or another person will form part of the ‘matrimonial pot’. The assets will then be broken down into ‘matrimonial’ and ‘non-matrimonial’. Matrimonial assets are the financial assets built up during the course of the marriage ie the family home.

Non-matrimonial assets are financial assets which were acquired before or after the marriage but whilst such assets can be treated differently to matrimonial assets this does not necessarily exclude them from any financial settlement.

4. What if we cannot reach agreement?

Parties who are finding it difficult to discuss or agree any settlement with their spouse may benefit from some legal assistance and/ or attending mediation. Another alternative is to seek the court’s assistance. For most

parties it is a requirement to at least attempt mediation before issuing court proceedings.

5. How do the courts decide what is a fair settlement?

Its is a common misconception that all matrimonial assets are to be split on a 50/50 basis. It is not a rule but it is generally used as a starting point. The court’s aim is to divide assets in a way that is fair. S.25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 provides the court with a list of factors to consider in every individual case. The welfare of any children will be considered first and foremost and then the following: • Parties’ income and earning capacity.

• Parties’ needs (eg where are they going to live).

• Standard of living throughout the marriage.

• The age of the parties and duration of marriage.

• Any disability.

• Contributions.

• Conduct of each party.

No matter what the value is of the overall matrimonial assets, configuring how they should be divided can become complex and stressful for all involved. It is advisable to seek the guidance of a family law specialist. n To discuss this with a family law specialist, contact Adrienne Baker, Solicitor by email: adrienne.baker@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call 01254 580000

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GETTING TOUGH ON CRIME

L

ancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden is aiming to rebalance resources in the Ribble Valley in his new role.

He will endeavour to ensure that fighting rural crime is effective as he explains: “I think the rural communities have felt, over a period of time, that they are at the bottom of the list of policing needs and criminals have filled that void. I get lots of people reporting increased anti-social behaviour in rural areas, such as increases in drug dealing taking place in car parks and beauty spots.

Sarah Varley speaks to the new Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, Andrew Snowden, who is taking a tough approach in order to cut crime What should Ribble Valley residents expect from you during your time as Police & Crime Commissioner?

What the people of the Ribble Valley can expect of me as Police & Crime Commissioner is someone who will be passionately leading the fight on crime.

If done well, by someone who genuinely wants to make a difference, the role can have real value in shaping public safety and that’s what I hope to achieve. I’m here because I want to see a much tougher, no-nonsense approach to getting criminals off our streets.

lifestyle but great to be out there speaking to police officers about what they need to be able to do their job effectively. A really tough approach on crime is what’s needed.

What are your priorities for the Ribble Valley?

I want to make sure we bring resources to the rural areas so I’m hoping to double the size of the rural task force in Lancashire Constabulary. In rural communities it is not an efficient deployment of resources to have bobbies on the beat patrolling every area – the chances of catching someone committing a crime is minimal. That’s why the rural task force is really important, having officers who are dedicated to investigating crime in rural areas and really understanding the communities and issues faced.

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efficiencies we can make and where we can then prioritise that funding.

We’ve got an uplift in funding from central Government so you will see over the next year or two more and more officers joining the force. I’ve built a very good working relationship with the Chief Constable already, around how we make best use of that uplift to get the most officers possible on the front line. The real focus needs to be that increased visible police presence.

WE WILL BE DOING EVERYTHING WE CAN TO ENSURE WE’RE GETTING TOUGH ON CRIME

How do you plan to deliver on this?

I will be starting afresh with a whole new policing and crime plan. Too often we see offenders getting off lightly and excuses being made for repeat offenders.

Here in Lancashire, I will be working closely with the Chief Constable Chris Rowley to deploy as many resources as we possibly can.

Dismantling and disrupting serious and organised crime will be a major priority because they are usually the head of the snake, where a lot of anti-social behaviour and other problems trickle down from, and drugs are often at the heart of it. Last week, I joined officers on the front line in drug raids on two properties. It was terrifying,

I have already told the Chief Constable I will be reviewing the decision to close the front desk at Clitheroe Police Station.

First and foremost I’ll be looking at Clitheroe as the main hub for Ribble Valley and then we will look at what more we can do.

You do reach a point of diminishing return however and have to consider if you want the police tied up on front desks or out fighting crime.

I hope by the time I’ve left office, Clitheroe Police Station will have a front desk again, right at the heart of the Ribble Valley community where residents can report crimes and engage with the police. What I really want to focus on is neighbourhood policing, with a strongly-rooted connection to specific areas so the police know the troublemakers, they’ve got the intelligence at their fingertips and if there’s a report of crime, they know immediately who they need to go and speak to.

We will be doing everything we can to ensure we’re getting tough on crime and bringing all the resources we can to tackle criminals, particularly repeat offenders, and anti-social behaviour to make sure that people feel safe on our streets.

How will funds be distributed?

I’ll set out a police and crime plan over the next few months, consulting with the public and the force on their priorities, and that will determine how I allocate the budgets. I’m working with the Chief Constable on where there might be

How do you plan to attract officers and new recruits into Lancashire Constabulary?

There’s a mix of things we’re doing. We can transfer officers in from other forces, making sure Lancashire remains and continues to be seen as an excellent police force that people want to work for.

I’ve been speaking to PCSOs about the role they play in talking to schools about careers in the police force. I want to continue to build that sense of pride in Lancashire Constabulary, that the police are there to serve local communities – it’s getting that message out there to this generation that if you join Lancashire Constabulary, it’s an amazing career and a huge contribution to make to society.

How do you intend to tackle concerns about an increase of organised crime coming into Lancashire?

It’s going to be a tough nut to crack so we’re going to have to keep hammering it and the police will have my 100 per cent backing in doing that. No excuses or exceptions will be made for these criminals, these are dangerous people who should not be on our streets. n

commissioner@lancashire-pcc.gov.uk lancashire-pcc.gov.uk 01772 533587

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lifestyle

H

aving had some interesting discussions with local councillors about the proposed boundary changes currently being considered, I wonder how the residents of Whalley or Langho may feel about being part of Hyndburn sometime in the future? Whalley councillor Ged Mirfin started a petition and we’ll be talking to him in a future issue on this subject. I’m also told Wilpshire may become part of Blackburn - the political and practical fallout from these changes could well be far reaching – my advice is again, don’t leave it too late to look and register your thoughts and concerns with your local councillors, that’s what they are there for.

F

irstly, I’d like to thank you for sending me such positive messages about my first column last month, it seems to have hit the right note with many of you. There were no negatives though - perhaps I should be more controversial!

L

et’s have a recap and its not good news on the Clitheroe Food Festival. Despite a Zoom call with many interested parties there simply wasn’t time nor a clear mandate from the council to search for alternative dates or smaller versions of the event.

N

ow, what really worries me is, I’m told that the committee-led RVBC could take up to six months to agree on a date for 2022. This is simply ridiculous but indicative of the slow pace and lack of ambition.

My message to them is very clear – don’t leave it too late! If you do, commercial sponsorship will have already been spent on the myriad of events already set in stone for 2022 and some key producers will already be committed elsewhere.

I

hadn’t realised that RVBC is one of the few remaining councils still operating a Jurassicperiod committee system rather than a cabinet-style approach. Make decisions and stick to them and create rapport and support from your commercial, independent local businesses.

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley calls for swift action from the council, talks about controversial boundary changes and reveals a 110k pipeline plan that will wreak untold havoc across the Ribble Valley

I

also spoke last month about the terrible condition of local pavements, which are both poor quality and possibly dangerous. This is particularly true in Clitheroe. I’m reliably told that after a positive meeting with LCC that our local council could get match funding for this work – can I ask them to stop counting their money, boasting of surpluses and get a detailed plan in front of them soonest?

We need to make the Ribble Valley aesthetically pleasing and also safe and do our utmost to drive footfall here (not literally of course) – again, don’t leave it too late!

H

ave you heard of the HARP Project?

The juggernaut that is United Utilities Haweswater Aqueduct Resilience Programme – this is a huge, proposed piece of work stretching across 110km of pipeline that runs from Cumbria to Manchester. Why do I mention this? I’m told that the disruption to our area will be immense. Waddington, West Bradford, Grindleton and Chatburn will be severely affected as will the overall area with restrictions to traffic and diversions. With our local economy barely clawing its way back, I’m deeply concerned that this will have a damaging impact on tourism and the wider economy. At this stage I can find no start date as it appears all of the conditions are yet to be met with LCC however if you’re concerned about this – don’t leave it too late. Lobby your councillors and check out harpconsultation.co.uk

I

n other news, I’m thrilled that at long last the remaining businesses here in the valley can finally open. The wedding market is huge - alongside creating employment, the bigger contribution to the local economy through the supply chain is enormous.Music, sport and theatre are all essential for our wellbeing and should be open soon – please let’s get behind any local initiatives throughout the summer and support our retail and hospitality sectors.

I

’m back in September but in the meantime please get in touch to tell me your stories, both good and bad, but you guessed it, don’t leave it too late!n

The views above are my own and I’d be delighted to get some replies to my questions and report back in September on any progress and positive outcomes tedd.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk @TeddWalmsley TM

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Within the garden, four large metal moon gates also form arches to support climbing roses. “They have been especially made for the garden and will form a romantic series of arches,” adds Amanda, who explains that Browsholme has adopted a ‘no mow’ ethos in parts of the grounds in order to create a habitat for wild grasses, plants and wildlife.

“We are creating pathways through a new

HISTORY IN THE MAKING This summer Browsholme Hall with its beautiful gardens, tea room and walking routes is open to the public, giving visitors a unique insight into this historic Grade I listed house

A

s one of the region’s most beautiful and interesting visitor attractions, Browsholme Hall has everything you could possibly wish for – historic gardens, woodland walks, a renowned local tea room, daily tours and for a staycation, luxury, woodland micro-lodges in the Woodland Glade.

Set in the heart of the Ribble Valley, Browsholme Hall is a Grade I listed historic house that was built in 1507.

Fast forward through the centuries and today, the hall is undergoing a continuous programme of restoration under the guidance of Robert and Amanda Parker along with the next generation – their daughter Eleanor and son Roland.

This year the reimagining of the unusual ‘Wilderness Garden’ is ongoing with the planting of each themed segment underway. The garden, which was created in 1707 to mark the Act of the Union, was originally designed and planted in geometric quadrants representing the Union Jack.

woodland garden by the lake and planting a colourful display of rhododendrons, trees and shrubs for all seasons. Our visitors, will then have more routes to enjoy within the gardens and dogs are always welcome.”

An enthusiastic volunteer from Myerscough College has also been helping in the gardens, working with organic methods to make the enterprise as green and eco-friendly as possible.

THIS SUMMER AFTER SUCH A TORRID YEAR, WE HAVE A SPECIAL WELCOME FOR VISITORS WHO COME AND SEE US AND WHO LOVE THE HALL AS MUCH AS WE ALL DO

Both exotic and indigenous plants are being used in the restoration, and in the centre of the garden, will be a sculpture by local sculptor Sarah Smith: “Sarah uses stone from Waddington Fell Quarry and she will use her skill to carve an ‘eyecatcher’ that will be a dramatic focal point,” says Amanda.

Fourteen generations of the Parker family have lived at Browsholme since it was built and with agile and astute planning, Robert and Amanda have brought Browsholme well and truly into the 21st century.

In the long term, their son Roland will be involved in estate work at Browsholme, while their daughter Eleanor has now joined the events and administration team: “The plan is that they will both be involved in the running of Browsholme, so Robert and I can begin to take a step back,” says Amanda.

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Eleanor has taken on marketing and social media responsibilities as well as helping with staff management, accommodation bookings, and Browsholme’ s hugely successful Bowbearer’s pizza enterprise, that was developed for regular pizza evenings at the Tithe Barn and as an evening food option for wedding celebrations.

Over in the Cart Shed is a tea room managed by Elizabeth Robinson.

Browsholme takes sustainability very seriously and therefore sources all main ingredients from local suppliers - these form the basis of a Five Mile Menu indicating that all ingredients are sourced or bought locally. The tea room serves up delicious cakes and quiches made by Tora Thompson who with Elizabeth is part of the 14-strong permanent team that constantly works behind the scenes to make Browsholme and its grounds

help to make Browsholme a very special place. This summer after such a torrid year, we have a special welcome for visitors who come and see us and who love the hall as much as we all do.” n

BROWSHOLME HAS ADOPTED A ‘NO MOW’ ETHOS IN PARTS OF THE GROUNDS IN ORDER TO CREATE A HABITAT FOR WILD GRASSES, PLANTS AND WILDLIFE a successful commercial enterprise for visitors to appreciate and enjoy.

In the hall, archivist Anna Watson is training volunteers to catalogue historic documents and items: “We have found some real treasures,” explains Amanda.

“We have discovered letters from the Boer War and a drawer untouched and filled with Beatrice Parker’s housekeeping documents from the 1920’s.

“There were even invoices from Byrnes and other local suppliers, shopping bills and details of Beatrice’s goats and poultry.

It is a fascinating insight into social history going back 100 years.”

With support from Historic England’s Culture Recovery Fund, it is the intention

that historic documents will become available to researchers worldwide: “We will be scanning some of the documents and making them available online so people will be able to gain access to them anywhere in the world.”

Many members of the team at Browsholme have been working at the hall for more than a decade including Catherine Turner, who has been there for 28 years, Adele Loi 26 years, Stephen Brown for 22 years, his brother Charles 10 years, while Rebecca Clarke has been managing weddings and events for 11 years.

“Once they come to Browsholme they don’t leave!’ says Amanda. “We are so lucky to have an extremely loyal team who all

Browsholme Hall and Tearoom is open Tuesday and Wednesdays with tours starting at 11.30am every hour, on the half hour.

Last tour at 2.30pm. Booking essential.

See browsholme.com for further information and contact details.

Browsholme Hall Clitheroe Road, Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160 browsholme.com

tbc lifestyle 80 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

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING On 24th September Macmillan Cancer Support’s iconic Coffee Morning event is back, and bigger than ever, with those attending or hosting an event set to raise millions to ensure Macmillan can continue to support people living with cancer. Every event, no matter how big or small, will help – events are already being planned throughout the UK, from back gardens to businesses, there will be a coffee morning where you are!

The money raised goes towards funding Macmillan – who rely almost entirely on donations – and their services across the country. This means absolutely every penny raised is cherished and appreciated and really helps provide vital support. Rob Turner, Macmillan’s Area Fundraising Manager for Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside and Isle of Man, says: “The countdown to Coffee Morning is officially on, and it’s always so fantastic to see so many people get involved as every penny makes a huge difference to those affected by cancer. Every single coffee morning hosted or attended enables Macmillan to support more and more people living with cancer and their families.”

Do something amazing today, sign up to host a World’s Biggest Coffee Morning at: coffee.macmillan.org.uk

DESIGNER STORE FUNDS MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Cancer Assessment Rapid Early Support (CARES) is a Lancashire-based charity helping in the early detection of cancer through funding endoscopy equipment for Burnley General Hospital in order to speed up waiting times for screening. Last year CARES opened a designer charity shop in Burnley, the first of its kind in the UK. The shop opened thanks to the local business community offering their services from carpenters to alarm installers, chipping in and providing the services free of charge. The shop opened its doors selling brand new designer clothes at up to 70 per cent off the recommended retail price, with 100 per cent of all revenue going directly to the charity. From Karen Millen to Moschino, the clothes were donated free of charge from various suppliers, the main one being the Boohoo group as well other designer outlets. Now back trading after lockdown, the store has celebrity fans such as Catherine Tyldesley as well as influencers and followers on social media. So far £75,000 has been donated to CARES to purchase two endoscopy machines which are up and running detecting cancer in adults and children. The next stage is to launch the concept in the Ribble Valley and CARES is set to open a store at the Wellsprings on Pendle Hill which will become CARES’ Ribble Valley branch. Fully backed by NHS East Lancashire Healthcare Trust, CARES is now hoping to fund a robot to further assist in the fight against cancer.

ULLSWATER CHALLENGE Open water swimmer David Holden is hoping to raise money for East Lancashire Hospice by swimming the length of Ullswater next month.

The seven-mile swim is in memory of friend Ian Ward, who died of cancer last year, aged 57. David’s previous open water endeavours have included swimming Windermere a total of 10.5 miles in 2017, and Coniston, five miles, in 2016. For his latest Ullswater challenge, David is training at Stonyhurst College pool where he swims on average four miles each day – more than 200 lengths – and he also open water swims on a regular basis at Salford Quays. If you would like to support David in his bid to raise money for East Lancashire Hospice go to: justgiving.com/fundraising/david-holden12

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IT WAS A JOY TO WORK ON, BUT ALSO A CHALLENGE TO LIVE UP TO SUCH GORGEOUS SURROUNDINGS!

FROM THE CARIBBEAN TO CUMBRIA Meet the family business giving luxury lodges on Morecambe Bay a flavour of the Platinum Coast

P

ure Leisure is somewhat of a household name when it comes to holiday parks in the North West.

With more than five decades of experience, the brand has grown steadily and organically to become one of the largest independent operators in the area. Their latest development is a stunning, boutique park in the southern Lake District, named Coniston View.

Lucy comments: “You can’t help but be inspired by this glorious location, the rolling hills, the wide expanse of sea and sky. It was a joy to work on, but also a challenge to live up to such gorgeous surroundings!”

PROVEN NOT PROMISED

Lakeland Leisure Homes Director, Andrew Jenkinson, explains: “We designed this lodge specifically for the Coniston View site, with large windows and glass patio doors to make the most of these beautiful surroundings.”

It is these finer details and the investment in them that makes Coniston View lodges different to others on the market, and all the more sought-after too. Coupled with the heritage of the Pure Leisure brand, you have the reassurance that their reputation is proven, not promised. n

A GLORIOUS LOCATION

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A short drive from the historic market town of Ulverston, the aptly named Coniston View treats every lodge to stunning 360-degree panoramas across the Lakeland fells and Morecambe Bay. It’s an exclusive address, with just a handful of properties available to purchase. The latest installation is a fully bespoke Lakeland Lodge, with two bedrooms, open plan living area and expansive decking to enjoy those fantastic views.

The property has been dressed by seasoned interior designer, Lucy Tattersall, whose impressive portfolio includes work locally in Preston and across the globe. Notably, she has worked on the interior furnishings and décor of several multi-million pound villas in Barbados, at Pure Leisure’s Royal Westmoreland resort.

Coniston View offer personal park and lodge tours, which you can arrange by calling 01539 769124 or visit: pure-leisure.co.uk for more information about this unique lodge development

THE JOYS OF AN ENGLISH SUMMER Tucked away in the pretty village of Holden is Holden Clough – one of the best destination nurseries in the region!

S

ummer at Holden Clough is set to be a magical time with a line-up of exciting and creative events to enjoy. From artisan summer markets to children’s treasure trails, there’s something for everyone over the coming months.

Whatever the weather Holden Clough is a sanctuary to discover, there’s no better place to be than Holden Clough, where you can relax, take a stroll through the grounds and enjoy a drink and something delicious from the Shepherd’s Hut or visit the Ice Cream Shop for a traditional locally made ice-cream, home-made juices or a slice of delicious cake.

The beautiful larch clad Potting Shed has everything you need to nurture your garden including trugs and trowels, secateurs and watering cans, fertilisers and fungicides, and for junior gardeners there are children’s gardening tools, den building kits and activity sets to make outdoor play exciting! It’s also here where everything begins – visitors can look through the round viewing window in the shop and see thousands of young plants being potted up before they go off in the growing field.

The Growing Field is stocked with all manner of home-grown plants potted

by Holden Clough’s team of expert horticulturalists, who work tirelessly to create a stunning array of plants to introduce into the old Frame Yard, which is organised by association and is laid out in such a way that it allows visitors to select plants – from cottage garden favourites to those that maybe enjoy shady areas, as well as a range of pollinators helping attract wildlife into your garden.

You will find an area within the grounds that features beautiful English roses grown

by David Austin – Holden Clough is proud

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SUMMER AT HOLDEN CLOUGH This summer also sees a stunning line-up of events at Holden Clough: 29th June 10.30am – 12pm: All About House Plants with Anthony £30 1st July 10.30am – 12.30pm: Summer Salads with Head Chef Radek £50 4th July 10am – 12.30pm: Modern Calligraphy Workshop Mellor & Rose £68 7th July 10.30am – 11.30am: Nursery Tour with John Foley £30 9th-11th July 9am – 5pm: Summer Market ‘Strawberry’ Handpicked artisan stallholders from the North to have been hand-picked to stock these, the UK’s best roses.

The new area by the beck showcases a collection of terracotta hand-thrown pots from the Pots and Pithoi company, famous for their unique high quality collection of Cretan pots. Still using an ancient 1000-year-old method, these beautiful hard-wearing pots can withstand the harsh Lancashire winters. The display of pots is located alongside Holden Beck at the bottom of the nursery – a delightful area to wander through and while you’re there, you will also spot a new addition to Holden Clough – a stunning Croft Pod showcasing just how you can create a multi-functional garden room in your outdoor space. Nestled amongst the contemporary natural planting, the pod could be a home office, craft room or gym – it can be anything you want it to be!

Events coming up at Holden Clough include a Strawberry Treasure Trail for little ones in July, while in August watch out for a Children’s Cut Flower Hunt – both with the reward of a delicious homemade biscuit along with a plant for them to take home, grow and nurture. n

11th July Gresgarth Hall Open Garden – visit Holden Clough at this beautiful garden 13th July 10.30am – 12.30pm: Summer Vase Arrangement with Alli and Helen £60 17th July 10am – 12pm: Children’s Printmaking Workshop with Aire Studio £18 21st-25th July Tatton Park Flower Show – Holden Clough’s opportunity to win another medal!

22nd July 10.30am – 12.30pm: Macrame Plant Hanger Workshop £50 22nd July 6pm – 8pm: Mindful Drawing with Kinswoman £30 31st July 10am – 12pm: Flora and Fauna Lino Mono Printing with Aire Studio £30 4th August 10.30am – 12pm: The Cottage Garden with John Foley £30 6th August 10am – 12pm: Beastie & Botanical Workshop for Children with Aire Studio £18 7th August 10.30am – 12pm: Flower Crowns with Kinswoman £40 8th August 10am – 12pm: Plantable Paper Origami Workshop with Aire Studio £30 10th August 9.30am – 4.30pm: The Art of Wire Sculpting £120 including lunch 11th August 10.30am – 12.30pm: Flower Arranging and a Conversation about Crocosmia with Alli and John £30 13th August 10.30am – 12pm: Adults and Children Pot Painting with Kinswoman £25/£15 20th-22nd August 9am – 5pm: Summer Market ‘Dahlia’ Handpicked artisan stallholders from the North 25th August 10.30am – 12.30pm: Summer Drinks with Head Chef Radek £40

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RELAX & ENJOY Although no two James’ Places are alike, what links them is a passion for good food, great service and a warm, friendly ambience that’s apparent as soon as you walk through the door

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J

ames’ Places is a name associated with good times. Comfortable, ultimately relaxed, great food – always in a stunning environment.

From rural inns with roaring fires to country houses and an industrial-style beer hall, not to mention a fabulous food hall showcasing the best that Lancashire has to offer, James’ Places are always the ‘go to’ venues when you want to enjoy time out with friends and family.

HOLMES MILL CLITHEROE BOWLAND FOOD HALL

A wonderful showcase of the finest, tastiest and healthiest food and drink from producers, farmers, artisans and growers from Bowland and beyond, the food hall features suppliers who are passionate about what they do.

Expect to discover new recipe suggestions and advice on how to cook the produce as well as ideas for barbecue boxes and what to add to your summer picnic basket. Part farm shop, part deli, juice bar and health food shop Bowland Food Hall is also a tasting parlour, coffee shop, wine bar and restaurant.

Discover a world of fabulous food!

BOILER HOUSE CAFÉ & GELATERIA

A destination in its own right, enjoy a continental style experience sitting outside the café enjoying a cup of coffee, artisan baked cake or a home-made gelato. At the Boiler House Café & Gelateria visitors can enjoy the very best gelato using locally sourced milk and cream, with a pinch of sugar. With the best milk in the world produced in Bowland, the gelateria creates a selection of classic flavours for a beautifully fresh ice-cold treat.

BOWLAND BEER HALL

Bowland Brewery Beer Hall features one of the longest bars in Britain! At just over 105 feet, it is home to 42 hand pulls, 16 keg pumps and hosts a minimum of 24 individual cask beers at any one time.

Featuring almost every beer you can think of, the beer hall is famed for its expertly curated collection that changes every week!

Enjoyed indoors, within the amazingly original industrial space complete with its very own steam engine, or outdoors at the mill, there’s a vibrancy at the beer hall that’s hard to beat!

1823 SPINNING BLOCK HOTEL: BISTRO BAR & GRILL Set to re-open at the end of July, the Bistro Bar & Grill is a buzzing, cosmopolitan-style bar located in the oldest building within the Holmes Mill complex – the 1823 Spinning Block, which has seen a stunning renovation.

A new focal point in the restaurant is a fabulous copper gin distillery – if this can make spirits as good as it looks it’s sure to be a winner! Perfect for any occasion, the Bistro Bar & Grill is an elegant space, which serves cocktails along with wines sourced locally from D Byrne and features a menu that includes tapas style small plates along with classic and contemporary dishes from the Esse chargrill. Adding to the chilled ambience, the Bistro Bar & Grill also features individually curated soundtracks and hand-picked live music by local legends Six15. And if you really want to make a night of it there are 39 brilliantly designed and themed bedrooms on the floors above.

Check out: holmesmill.co.uk for all updates, what’s on and table reservations.

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THE EMPORIUM

FALCON MANOR

THE ROYAL

WADDINGTON ARMS

MITTON HALL

THE SHIREBURN ARMS

A grand Parisenne style café, the Emporium was the first of many James’ Places concepts.

Featuring an eclectic mix of style, design and dining, in a historic old chapel in Clitheroe, the Emporium continues to be a place that attracts those who enjoy dining in a unique setting. Whether it’s a latte or a lunchtime glass of fizz, this elegant old building has been lavishly converted to create three glorious floors of eating and drinking. Or, visitors can enjoy watching the world go by with the bi-fold doors open, sitting at a pavement table in a continental style café setting.

Located in the heart of the pretty village of Waddington, the Waddington Arms is the hub of this small, vibrant community.

Come rain or shine it’s the perfect place to eat, drink and relax. Cosy up inside in front of a roaring wood fire or sit outside in the sunshine on the terrace. There’s lots to look forward to at the Waddington Arms: • Hot August Nights – live entertainment on Saturday 1st and 15th August.

• Annual Sausage Sizzle – 29th August.

An elegant country house on the edge of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, Falcon Manor is a great place to enjoy a peaceful staycation!

Perfect for walking in the dales, a romantic night away or a day out in the countryside, Falcon Manor features a sophisticated restaurant and bar and luxurious hotel.

It forms a stunning backdrop in which to enjoy great food and drink, games on the lawns or afternoon tea. The menu at Falcon Manor takes the freshest ingredients, preparing them with care and respect to create stunning dishes, packed full of flavour.

• Botanical afternoon tea special offer!

• Flowerpot Festival 1st July – 31st August.

Effortlessly beautiful, Mitton Hall is a stunning country house in a fabulous location.

It features a restaurant and bar that exude charm, a grand hall with roaring fire and terrace that is simply perfect for afternoon tea outdoors. Mitton Hall’s afternoon tea menu features traditional, champagne or gin options and a whole host of delicious light bites. Sitting on the terrace at Mitton is also a favourite place to enjoy summer sundowners as dusk falls.

01200 407180 info@jamesplaces.co.uk jamesplaces.com

Located in the market square in the lovely town of Kirkby Lonsdale, the Royal is centrally located giving visitors access to all the lovely independent shops and surrounding countryside, which is top of the list in this Area of outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It is the perfect base from which to explore the outstanding landscapes in the picturesque Lune Valley, where the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks converge. The Royal gives guests the best of both town and country in a beautiful environment that offers fabulous food and stunning accommodation.

A true rural retreat, the Shireburn Arms has an ultimately informal atmosphere in which to enjoy fabulous food. With open fireplaces and cosy corners, the Shireburn also has one of the Ribble Valley’s best kept secrets – a stunning terrace at the rear of the pub with breath-taking views.

Whether you’re eating out or in, the chef at the Shireburn has crafted a menu that pays homage to the region’s fresh, local produce. Dog friendly, the pub is perfectly located in Hurst Green where visitors can embark on many different rural rambles, including the famous Tolkien Trail. Historic Stonyhurst College is also within a stone’s throw of the pub. n

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RESTORING THE MAGIC

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After 35 years of Gisburne Park being a private hospital, it has now been bought back by the Hindley family, who have exciting plans for its future. Gail Bailey talks to Guy Hindley to find out more

et in 1000 acres of parkland, Gisburne Park Estate has a rich and extraordinary history having been owned by just two families over the last 400 years. It was the Lister family, whose title was Lord Ribblesdale, who established the estate having acquired the property in 1614. Then for the last 100 years it has been owned by the Hindley family.

As Guy Hindley explains: “The hall was converted into a private hospital by my father in the mid-eighties and reluctantly the family moved out. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to own it again, I always thought it would be something my kids Hunter and Teddy would have to figure out.”

Gisburne Park has had many noble visitors over the years, the most notable being Oliver Cromwell who stayed in the mansion on the 16th August 1648 on his way to the Battle of Preston. More recently Prince Charles was a regular visitor to the estate to visit his friend, Guy’s father Christopher Hindley, and hunt across the Ribble Valley. There was a five-acre wood planted on the estate and named after the Prince of Wales to commemorate his first visit in 1975.

The estate now boasts a sprawling

parkland that has been designated with a Grade II listing and a mansion house that is one of the very few Grade I buildings

IMAGINE AFTERNOON TEA IN THE OLD BALLROOM, BOWLING IN THE OLD WINE CELLARS, A POP-UP COCKTAIL BAR BY THE RIVER OR LISTENING TO A SYMPHONY IN THE WALLED GARDEN in the UK: “Amber and I can’t wait to reimagine and establish it as one of the UK’s leading hospitality destinations, and allow visitors and guests to share its splendour. We have a unique opportunity

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to reveal the history of the estate while creating a sustainable and self-sufficient business which provides for and supports the local community,” Guy explains.

Having been a hospital for so long the house will now require considerable investment, approximately £20 million, but Guy and Amber intend to re-open it as a private members club, hotel and garden spa and it will become the focal point of the estate: “Re-acquiring the house is like the final piece of the jigsaw for us,” he says. “We are now able to fully restore Gisburne Park in its entirety and this enchanting, historical estate will finally be back together, enabling members and guests to enjoy an unparalleled holiday experience. The vision will be very personal

WE HAVE A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO REVEAL THE HISTORY OF THE ESTATE WHILE CREATING A SUSTAINABLE AND SELFSUFFICIENT BUSINESS to us drawing on Amber’s acting career in Los Angeles and wellbeing experience and my years as a practicing artist in NewYork.”

Gisburne Park already has a host of fabulous accommodation and experiences including the award-winning Ribblesdale Park with luxury lodges, houses and cottages which together can sleep over 250 guests.

Glamping is available in the exclusive glamping village of 10 luxurious widely spaced bell tents along with the superb Hindelinis restaurant, renowned for serving an array of gourmet dishes.

Gisburne Park is also an idyllic wedding venue with a 10-acre private valley, Riverside bridal house, upstream ceremonial woodland

and accommodation for up to 200 guests – it couldn’t be more perfect!

The estate certainly saved the summer of 2020 for many, with its spectacular Gisburne Park Pop Up Festival which Guy and Amber founded and operated, allowing visitors to enjoy music, family shows and an outdoor cinema in a safe and socially distanced way. Plans for the future include more music events, literary festivals and car shows.

“We have so many really fun and adventurous ideas to pursue for our guests to enjoy,” explains Guy. The exciting plans for the estate include, re-establishing the former deer park, rewilding certain areas of land, fishing on the Ribble, an ice skating rink, bee and wildlife safaris (the estate now has 10 beehives), clay pigeon shooting, a kitchen garden cookery school, bowling alley, cinema and recording studio, horse riding, tennis courts around the estate and a spa: “This estate has the potential to

be a world class destination. It is now down to us to sensitively reimagine such a historic location with 21st century vision,” Guy says.

“We are currently pulling together a leading team of experts who will begin working on the transformation of the house and we can’t wait to get started,” he adds.

“Imagine afternoon tea in the old ballroom, bowling in the old wine cellars, a pop-up cocktail bar by the river or listening to a symphony in the walled garden – pure bliss!”

With their infectious enthusiasm, Amber and Guy and the team look set to create a resort that will rewrite hospitality in the north of England. n

To receive updates: @gisburneparkestate info@gisburneparkestate.co.uk gisburneparkestate.co.uk

A PASSION FOR CARS Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, Michael Oliver Hanson has turned his passion for cars into an enviable business in the Ribble Valley, writes Meena McDonald

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ibble Valley Wedding Cars Ltd is a luxurious wedding car business with an amazing fleet of magnificent cars dating from 1928 right through to modern vehicles, ranging from Bentleys to Rolls-Royces and Cadillacs.

All the vehicles are completely authentic and maintained to an exceptional standard throughout the year. Many have fascinating histories having originated and been acquired from across the globe.

Very recently Michael was commissioned by a client to provide two immaculate ivory Rolls-Royces, one a classic 1930s limousine convertible and the other from the 1980s.

Michael commented: “Once the wedding vows were performed and the ceremony complete, it was time to drive to the reception. The groom chose to take his guitar with him in the car. As the two cars journeyed through the glorious sun in the Ribble Valley and the champagne flowed,

THE AIM OF THE BUSINESS IS TO MAKE THE DAY AS UNIQUE AND SPECIAL AS POSSIBLE WITH EVERY LITTLE DETAIL CONSIDERED AND TAKEN CARE OF the groom started to sing ‘Mr Blue Sky’ to his beautiful new bride. As they drove through Whalley people on the main street stopped to cheer and wave at the happy couple, it really was a tremendous scene and truly sums up what we’re all about.”

The aim of the business is to make the day as unique and special as possible with every little detail considered and

taken care of, from the personalised silk ribbons and the spectacular floral displays to the delectable hamper that is provided with each car.

THE PERFECT PACKAGE Michael has teamed up with local supplier, KeiCo Drinks to provide their indulgent hampers containing a delightful collection of luxury gifts for couples to enjoy during their wedding day. The hampers can also be utilised as gifts for the bride and groom so guests can choose wonderful items that they know the couple will truly enjoy.

To complete the package Michael also offers his clients the opportunity of a perfect honeymoon at the Hanson Villa,Yalikavak.

With its dreamy sunsets overlooking the Turkish Rivera it really is the idyllic setting for a honeymoon.

TAILORED WEDDINGS Living in the Ribble Valley, Michael knows he has a genuinely sophisticated audience who want to create the perfect day with

lifestyle every aspect being considered and delivered to the highest standard.

Whatever his clients’ tastes, Michael has something for everyone from extravagant glitzy weddings to very simple ones, fitting in with the required themes and styles the couple desire.

SO, WHERE DOES MICHAEL’S PASSION FOR CARS COME FROM? Michael was brought up with cars, with his dad being an avid racer from a young age and one of his grandparents being a driver of an airfield ambulance during World War Two for the famous Dambuster Squadron.

MANY HAVE FASCINATING HISTORIES HAVING ORIGINATED AND BEEN ACQUIRED FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE When Michael’s dad sadly lost his leg in his 20s, Michael’s grandfather bought him an automatic Rolls-Royce so he could drive it more easily and in comfort. This was completely rejected by Michael’s dad as it was far too sedate a vehicle for a man in his 20s!

Michael started collecting WW2 vehicles from a young age, and these have been hired out on many occasions for special events such as film works and his vehicles can be viewed in films such as Fury with Brad Pitt and TV series such as Heartbeat and The Darling Buds of May.

For as long as Michael can remember there has always been a Rolls-Royce in the family, along with a Lancaster bomber engine in the foyer of the company offices.

Over the years Michael has gathered a fleet of wedding cars worth well over a million pounds and is planning to continue adding to his fleet as the business expands. The demand for original authentic vehicles is tremendous as people are looking for the ‘real McCoy’ and and not just the replicas which are easily available.

So, why not use some of these incredibly beautiful and unique vehicles to create the perfect day for couples in the Ribble Valley?

His aspiration is to now deliver a unique and exceptional experience to couples throughout Lancashire, helping create the most memorable day of their lives. n

WEDDING CARS LTD

Ribble Valley Wedding Cars Ltd Megitta House, Kenyon Lane Dinckley, Blackburn BB6 8AN 01200 400115 info@rvweddingcars.co.uk rvweddingcars.co.uk

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N O I T C A CALL TO I

Town centre trader Kevin Horkin warns of the mirage of prosperity and calls for a Clitheroe Town Centre Task Force to put civic pride back into the borough

’d like to preface this piece by making a confession – I’ve been a high street trader for 40 years and have had premises in Clitheroe for a third of a century. So yes, I have a vested interest as a business owner in the continuing prosperity of the town centre. However, I believe I have a broader public interest in preventing the continued visible decline of the civic infrastructure of Clitheroe, especially its pavements and road network.

This was my prime motivation for standing as a borough councillor for the ward where I live – West Bradford and Grindleton.

The issue for me is the stark paradox that exists between the apparent prosperity of the Ribble Valley, which was roundly trumpeted as the borough rose to the top of the wealth league in Lancashire. I wonder whether that’s a mirage? Some of our pavements are an utter disgrace – it’s hardly a good advertisement to attract the footfall necessary to revitalise the town centre, which like Sleeping Beauty, has been asleep during the pandemic. Politicians

at a higher level have for too long, been seduced by the vision of wealth and prosperity and have used it as an excuse for why Ribble Valley has not received its fair share of public funding.

FOOTFALL IS AT THE HEART OF THE SURVIVAL AND CONTINUING PROSPERITY OF HIGH STREET BUSINESSES Footfall is at the heart of the survival and continuing prosperity of high street businesses like my own. It isn’t just that town centres have entered a period of suspended animation as a consequence of three lockdowns, but on-line shopping now represents a much more potent challenge to the experiential shopping model. Covid has accelerated the demise of town centres as shopping destinations.

The question is, what are local authorities currently doing and what do they need to do in order to ensure that our town centres stay

lifestyle

sustainable? Ribble Valley Borough Council has been extremely effective in delivering business support funding to businesses closed as a consequence of the pandemic.

It richly deserves its accolade for being a high performing council in the Top 10 Councils in England and Wales for delivering this funding. Sleeping Beauty however, has now woken and requires care and attention.

If Clitheroe town centre does not receive this care it will fall back to sleep never to be revived. The problem is that serious not least because the council is heavily dependent on business rates for its continued survival.

Ribble Valley appears to be better at propping up businesses than it does in cultivating growth.

So, what needs to be done? In the book Sold Out, which started all this off, published in 2012, Bill Grimsey offered an alternative vision of the high street calling for a reinvention of town centres as community hubs. Grimsey et al called for local authorities to demonstrate the leadership required to put transformation plans in place. Town centres are a symbolic representation of community wellbeing.

When you see photographs of Clitheroe town centre, one is confronted by a lack of civic pride – a bizarre chess board of uneven and badly broken, mismatched paving slabs alongside squares of poorly applied tarmac. It gives the impression of a down-at-heel town centre in comparison to the heavy investment that has gone into surrounding town centres.

You certainly wouldn’t think that Ribble Valley had risen up the league table of prosperity in Lancashire. If civic beautification and revitalisation projects are a mark of civic pride then I’m afraid Clitheroe does not compare favourably. It appears that any lobbying for funding has been unsuccessful – which is a shame because there is a large amount of social capital within the business community, but it is not being engaged with properly.

There is a real frustration on the part

of local high street businesses over a lack of consultation. Relations between the Chamber of Trade and the Borough Council are frosty and there has been a failure to reach out to the FSB with whom regular events were previously held. Clitheroe Town Team last met over two years ago despite the proliferating array of video-conferencing software like Zoom and Teams. It all appears to be too much for a much-vaunted Regeneration Team.

WHAT IS NEEDED IS A CALL TO ACTION, WHICH REMOVES THE BARRIERS AND FACILITATES CHANGE QUICKLY I would encourage RVBC to start holding meetings once again with the Clitheroe Town Team, say once every four to six months, and regular surveys would give an indication of business confidence on the high street and establish a two-way dialogue on emerging issues, not least on planning, where there seems to be more concern with heritage

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preservation than business enterprise.

I acknowledge that there has to be a balance between the two, but not the preponderance of one to the exclusion of the other. Regular meetings and surveys would help boost trade and would also be an easy win for the Economic Development Committee, established by RVBC, which does not yet appear to have found a role despite being in existence for over three years.

It needs to be recognised that there is a danger of barriers emerging between the borough council and high street traders as the economy begins to open up. What is needed is a call to action, which removes the barriers and facilitates change quickly.

This is why I am calling for the creation of a Clitheroe Town Centre Task Force made up of representatives from local business to put together a series of proposals on how the town centre should be revitalised.

Of course, none of this means anything if Ribble Valley Borough Council lacks the institutional machinery to deliver much-needed funding to where it is urgently required. What differentiates local authorities who have been able to deliver town-scape and high street renewal schemes is the large regeneration teams in-situ in places like Rossendale, Burnley, Hyndburn and Blackburn – with specialist officers who source and submit convincing bids in order to deliver projects that will have an impact. It appears that Ribble Valley is lacking in such specialist resources and regeneration funding falls on too few shoulders.

I’m an optimist and like to think that the changes that are required can happen quickly because there is a real danger that rather than being part of the levelling-up agenda there will be an irreversible levelling-down.

As someone who has a love-hate relationship with local government, I’m experienced enough to know that I’ll continue to be frustrated. That won’t stop me trying however – I for one will fully embrace change to build back better. n

EDUCATIONN E W S

LEAVERS’ CELEBRATIONS person, the ceremonies were live-streamed and a great time was had by all pupils.

Importantly, the day provided one last opportunity for friends to be together and to enjoy each other’s company before embarking on adventures new.

Rhetoricians (Year 13) celebrated their Great Academies, the traditional event which concludes pupils’ time at Stonyhurst in their final year. The day began with Leavers’ Mass in St Peter’s Church, followed by Prize Giving and then a lunch served in

a marquee in the Stonyhurst grounds.

The leavers were entertained by a live band, Furious Styles, who helped them toast the conclusion of their school careers in style.

Even though social restrictions meant that families couldn’t be part of the day in

HUGO SELECTED

SIXTH FORM BLUE PETER LETTER Year 1 pupil, Juliet, wrote Blue Peter a STUDENT EXECUTIVE Oakhill lovely informative letter telling them all about

Stonyhurst are proud to announce the great achievement of one of their Lower Grammar (Year 9) sports scholars, Hugo. His commitment and dedication to sport has been rewarded in his selection for the Under 14 Lancashire Cricket Squad. Stonyhurst are proud of Hugo and how he has progressed as a cricketer – Quant Je Puis!

Westholme have announced their new Sixth Form Student Executive and members have begun planning for the events taking place, such as their speech to be delivered at the school Prize Giving ceremony in July. In their new roles as Heads of School, Tilly and Ben proudly represented Westholme at the Civic Sunday ceremony at Blackburn Cathedral.

her knowledge of space. She told them all about the planets and the features of each one. Juliet also did a beautiful drawing of the solar system – labelled perfectly. Finally, Juliet included some aqua bead planets she had made and a Blue Peter badge also out of aqua beads.

Make sure you wear your badge with pride Juliet as it is a great achievement!

EDUCATIONN E W S

STAMP COMPETITION RACE TO THE TOP

CRICKET WIN

Moorland’s Junior School pupils had a chance to flex their artistic muscles in a very exciting opportunity with Royal Mail. This year, Royal Mail want to honour those heroes who have been such an amazing help during the coronavirus pandemic. The stamps will feature designs created by eight school-aged children so Moorland asked pupils to think about who their lockdown hero was and then design a stamp in their honour.

Oakhill’s Prep children recently participated in their first fixture in over 18 months. The Prep cricket squad travelled to Highfield Priory to play in a T20 game. Oakhill batted first and got a respectable first innings score of 59. The boys knew they would have to bowl and field well to have a chance of winning. The game ended up going down to the last over and Oakhill won by four runs.

Well played boys!

Burnley College Themis plumbing apprentice Tom Race has won first place in a national plumbing competition – earning money, tools and more as part of his prize. Tom triumphed in the gruelling six-hour test in HIP Magazine’s Learner of the Year 2021 Competition. Head of Construction at Themis at Burnley College, David Lord says: “Tom has shown a really high level of skill and knowledge throughout his training. His success is also testimony to his outstanding attitude and dedication.”

E-SPORTS COURSE Playing computer games is a serious business – and a new course at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre will give students the expertise they need to flourish in the booming e-sports industry.

Applications are now open for the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in E-Sports which starts in September. Audiences around the world for this new online sports offering are growing.

In 2020 the World Championship for The League of Legends – an online team-based strategy game – attracted in excess of 150 million viewers – and that’s just one game. Rocket League, Overwatch and StarCraft are just a few of the other games which attract millions of viewers worldwide.

TOP HAIR AND BEAUTY STAR Blackburn College has been running a competition for pupils in Years 10 and 11 inspired by the BBC’s make up programme Glow Up. The competition allowed pupils who have a potential interest in a hair and beauty career to compete to be Blackburn College’s next Hair and Beauty Star. Bowland High School student Karolina Sadko, 15, who is in Year 10 at the Grindleton school won the competition in a prestigious finale held at the college. Karolina has now been provided with hair and beauty essentials to build up her own kit, while Bowland High School will receive £250 towards a piece of kit or a facility.

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LOCAL GRADUATE RE-INVENTS HERSELF WITH DEGREE A promotional television campaign is aiming to recruit potential higher education students in order to improve their long-term career prospects

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ocal graduate Melissa McConnell plays a starring role in Blackburn College’s new Reinvent Yourself television advert, to promote the College’s University Centre.

Melissa studied BSc (Hons) Psychology at Blackburn University Centre and now works in the community in Local Government with Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

She shared her positive experience and journey at Blackburn University Centre to encourage potential students to retrain at the Higher Education provider and ‘reinvent themselves’.

Melissa, 34, who started at Blackburn College with few qualifications, said: “When I decided to retrain I sat down with my Volunteers Coordinator and set out a five-year plan. At Blackburn College I did my GCSEs, Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma: Social Sciences and my Psychology degree.

“I knew how passionate the lecturers were about the applied aspect of Psychology – adapting it to the context of everyday life is what appealed the most to me. I also knew that the University Centre had small

class sizes so I could get the most out of my tutors.

“I always knew I wanted to retrain to provide a better life for my children and to be a positive role model for them once they were a bit older. After completing my degree at Blackburn University Centre, I was able to gain my dream job.” n

It’s not too late to apply and enrol at Blackburn College or Blackburn University Centre for September 2021 Simply visit: www.blackburn.ac.uk and choose your course

Need help? Why not book the help of a one-to-one Careers Advisor?

Email: careers@blackburn.ac.uk

CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE OF EDUCATION IN LANCASHIRE Westholme is leading the way to deliver excellence in education across Lancashire to create confident, enthusiastic and leading individuals throughout the region, writes Meena McDonald

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ed by inspiring and innovative Principal Dr Richard Robson, Westholme is determined to provide the highest level of education, focusing on delivering the essential skills required for the 21st century.

From September 2022 the school will achieve its vision of One Family, One Site, One Westholme with the creation of a new state-of-the-art Prep School on the same site as the Senior School and the INSPIRED Sixth Form.

New junior school provision One key element of the Westholme evolution is the doubling of the Prep School Junior provision from one form to a two-form entry for Years 3 to 6 with the development of the new site at Wilmar House.

The perfect dynamics will be created by keeping the class sizes small, allowing for excellent pupil interaction combined with personal support by specialist subject teachers.

The relocation to Wilmar Lodge will also increase curriculum diversity and opportunities so pupils will be able to tap into an extensive range of facilities.

There will be something to fulfil everyone’s passion, including a professional theatre, a brand new state-of-the-art music department and the amazing sporting facilities.

THERE WILL BE SOMETHING TO FULFIL EVERYONE’S PASSION

Fulfilling the Westholme vision As the school approaches its centenary year Dr Robson will be delivering the vision of Westholme’s second Principal, Mr Arthur Rouse, who first opened the Senior School at Wilmar Lodge in 1968.

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New Prep School opening in September 2022

Parents at the school have already witnessed the fruits of Dr Robson’s vision, passion and energy with the INSPIRED Sixth Form where the external intake has more than doubled for September 2021. Parents are extremely impressed that he has applied his experience as a UK Schools’ Inspector to enhance the school’s offering.

Dr Robson commented: “Mr Rouse’s vision was to bring the whole school together on one site and we’re delighted to be able to fulfil that dream for him in 2022.

Over the past 100 years there have been only five Principals before me, and that is testament to the culture, ethos and values of the school. These have remained

distinctive for nearly a century.”

Dr Robson continued: “One Westholme will have the academic rigour that we’ve always had, but more importantly, it will develop and nurture the essential skills employers are seeking in our young people, such as leadership, independence, teamwork, problem solving, communication and confidence.”

OVER THE PAST 100 YEARS THERE HAVE BEEN ONLY FIVE PRINCIPALS BEFORE ME, AND THAT IS TESTAMENT TO THE CULTURE, ETHOS AND VALUES OF THE SCHOOL Come and see the educational innovations for yourself by popping into the school.

Dr Robson will be delighted to share his holistic vision to deliver a first-class unrivalled education to children aged four to 18 across Lancashire. n

Enhanced learning One key aspect of the school’s educational advancement is the development of its new Forest School on the new site, bringing science and nature together and delivering outside the classroom, experiences which provide immeasurable mental and physical health benefits.

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

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the perfect fit that we should run a financial business from a fabulous old former bank, and I secured the property in 2017,” explains Wayne.

The services provided by Wayne and his team include discretionary investment management, stockbroking, financial planning and ethical investing.

Wayne Hayhurst of Raymond James Ribble Valley credits growing up and working on the family farm as his inspiration, writes Gail Bailey

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orn and educated in the Ribble Valley, Wayne Hayhurst says he never wants to live anywhere else, and being the founder of a successful financial services business in Longridge, he is proud to work in and support the local community.

Wayne explains: “My first ever 10 clients from 15 years ago, still remain clients, which is something that gives me great pride and highlights my business ethos of honesty, integrity and service.”

On leaving Longridge High School Wayne gained an apprenticeship at BAE Systems and progressed onto completing a BSc in Computer Science, but all the time had a passion for the stock market, along with very much being a people person.

risky and even a little scary leaving a promising and secure career with BAE Systems, I headed for London and spent an intense 12 months training – but it was the best decision I could have made,” Wayne says.

There was never any doubt that Wayne would return to set up his own business back home in Longridge, but with no office, no clients and no real experience, there was a lot to do: “That was when my work ethic from growing up on a working farm really kicked in,” he explains.

“I had seen my father work 12 hours a day, seven days a week and I did exactly the same. In 2006, for six days a week over three months I literally knocked on doors introducing myself to the local community, touching on the services we could provide and how I could help people plan for the future. The response I got was somewhat mixed but mainly positive, obtaining a lot of interest and ‘good lucks’.”

Wayne gained an astonishing 1,300 phone numbers of people who were interested in his financial services offering, and then had the task of setting up meetings and building his clientele.

OUR ROLE IN OUR CLIENTS’ LIFE STORY IS TO WALK ALONGSIDE THEM TO HELP THEM ACHIEVE THEIR LIFE GOALS

“One Monday morning, aged 23, I was browsing my stock portfolio and the markets, not even thinking about a change of job, when I came across an advert for a trainee stockbroker with Edward Jones Investments.

Within a single week, I had stumbled across the job opportunity, travelled to London for an interview, was offered the position and handed my notice in on the Friday! Although I knew it was somewhat

In 2009 Wayne made his next move taking steps to become the owner and founder of his own company, working with Raymond James Investment Services: “Building my own company was always my ultimate aim and this gave me the perfect opportunity,” says Wayne. “In January 2010 I was a one-man band, but in just over 11 years we now have a team of 20, offering a wide and specialist range of financial services.”

Bringing ‘Wall Street to the high street’ Wayne has always worked on Berry Lane, first renting two office spaces before the opportunity to move into the old Nat West Bank building became an option: “It seemed

MY FIRST EVER 10 CLIENTS FROM 15 YEARS AGO, STILL REMAIN CLIENTS, WHICH IS SOMETHING THAT GIVES ME GREAT PRIDE “Our role in our clients’ life story is to walk alongside them to help them achieve their life goals such as planning for the retirement of their dreams. We provide a totally bespoke financial planning and investment management service, tailored around each of our client’s unique situations.

“Being part of the global investment company Raymond James, gives the stability of such a big financial powerhouse but with the quality and service typically only found in owner-managed businesses,” adds Wayne, who is married to Sophie and the couple have two young daughters.

A lover of the outdoors, Wayne now shares the experience he had as a young man with ambitions to become a stockbroker, by creating his own in-house academy within the branch in Longridge: “Just over three years ago we created an in-house academy, where we selected four post-graduates and supported them through the relevant training and qualifications for their suited role within the business. All of the four academy members have remained with the business and that’s something I’m extremely very proud of.” n

ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

BUSINESS MATTERS

tbc lifestyle 106 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

SAY CHEESE

WORLD GIN DAY

UK restaurant chain Honest Burgers has swapped Stilton for Blacksticks Blue in a new partnership with fourth generation family cheesemakers, Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses. Diners can now choose to top their classic Honest beef burger with a melted Blacksticks Blue mega slice, complete with its unmistakable amber hue, smooth, creamy texture and distinctive blue bite, all handmade in Butlers’ Lancashire dairy. The burger is made with a homemade red onion relish and lettuce, served with Honest’s signature homemade rosemary salted chips.

To celebrate World Gin Day, Northcote dispatched exclusive gin tasting boxes featuring the restaurant’s local gin heroes.

The boxes contained three sample gins from Batch, Cuckoo and Lytham Gin with information about each distillery. A Batch branded gin glass, specially-selected tonics from Fever Tree and a selection of Northcote cocktail recipes also featured including Gunpowder Plot – an explosive mix featuring Cuckoo Spiced gin and Lytham Lady featuring Old Tom Lytham Gin with citrus flavours, balanced by the sweetness of honey.

ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY

UK CITY OF CULTURE Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden recently launched the search for UK City of Culture 2025 and, for the first time, the competition is welcoming bids from groups of towns joining together to win the bid for an area. Lancashire will bid for the title – the first time a county has re-imagined itself as a virtual city with a mission to produce an ambitious, inclusive cultural programme that will be woven together to integrate the urban, the coast and the countryside. The citizens of Lancashire are at the heart of the bid and as part of the bid process, Lancashire 2025 is now recruiting a Citizen’s Advisory Panel. Loz Kaye, Citizen Engagement Manager for Lancashire 2025 said: “We are looking for people who are passionate about a positive future for Lancashire, and the role played by culture, arts, nature and digital technology. The Citizens’ Advisory Panel is a great chance to be part of something really ambitious.”

With Lancashire tourism and hospitality businesses re-opening, Marketing Lancashire, the county’s destination management organisation with support from VisitEngland’s DMO Recovery Marketing Fund, will showcase Lancashire as it aligns with the national tourism agency’s Escape the Everyday campaign.

The fund will enable a bespoke Visit Lancashire campaign aimed at reintroducing visitors to the county – highlighting attractions, accommodation and bookable experiences.

Rediscover Lancashire – Escape the Everyday is a multimedia campaign including short films, ready-made itineraries and branded content across social media and digital channels.

Rachel McQueen, Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “The team has been working hard behind the scenes to secure this funding and to recruit the partners required to launch this important marketing activity for the sector.”

LOCAL GOVERNMENT STALWART IS RIBBLE VALLEY’S NEW MAYOR A councillor who has fought 11 elections, served on district councils for 21 years and parish councils for 34 is Ribble Valley’s new mayor. Retired computer programmer Tony Austin, who represents Billington and Langho, moved to the area in 2015 and was immediately co-opted to Billington and Langho Parish Council, before being elected to Ribble Valley Borough Council in 2019. Councillor Austin said: “Ribble Valley has a strong identity and heritage, and I look forward to representing this remarkable borough during my mayoral year.”

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PENSION SHARING IN DIVORCE Around 80 per cent of married couples have at least one pension, yet prior to a report by the Pension Advisory Group if a couple divorced, they were faced with uncertainty on how pensions should be divided. Helen Lucking, head of family at Napthens, looks at the implications of the PAG report

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he Pensions Advisory Group (PAG) includes solicitors, mediators, financial advisers and pensions experts and was established to provide guidance on pension sharing in divorce. Whilst not enshrined in law, the advice is highly regarded and used by judges to assist in decision making.

During divorce financial proceedings, both parties are required to put assets ‘on the table’ and provide evidence on properties, savings and pensions. Pension’s evidence is the most recent cash equivalent value (CEV).

Before the PAG report it was common for pension CEV to be ‘offset’ against another asset eg a wife proves her pension CEV is £100,000, if the family home holds £100,000 equity she may suggest she keep her pension, her husband keeps equity in the home. But pension values can be misleading – if from

a defined benefit scheme, income upon retirement is potentially more valuable than the CEV. Before the report, circumstances of the parties were not necessarily considered in decisionmaking. The PAG report specifies ages, health and earning potential are all relevant.

It recommends pensions be dealt with separately to other assets and considered as future income – and pensions divided with an aim of equality of income upon retirement.

To calculate pension income, pension on divorce experts (PODEs) can produce reports that calculate this – but reports are expensive and can be lengthy to prepare. The PAG indicates a pensions report be obtained where pension CEV is £100,000 or above. However, CEV less than £100,000 does not necessarily reflect the income the pension will produce.

Courts usually require a pensions report.

Courts are taking PAG advice seriously.

In a recent case a couple separated in 2011 but only divorced and settled finances at trial in February 2019 (prior to the report).

The wife’s pension had grown significantly during separation. She requested the court consider the value of her pension up to 2011 as a matrimonial asset and the court initially agreed.

The husband appealed. The appeal was heard in February 2020 (after the report) and the judge found the initial decision not in line with PAG advice. The pension was valued over £100,000 so a PODE should have been instructed – parties’ needs, ages and contributions had not been considered (the husband was 59 with health issues so unable to work and unlikely to have sufficient income upon retirement without a share of this pension). The appeal judge listed the matter for a further hearing to re-evaluate steps to be taken in line with the guidance.

If you have any queries or concerns about pension sharing, always consult an expert. n Helen Lucking is a Partner and Head of Family & Divorce at regional law firm Napthens napthens.co.uk

napthens.co.uk

For life’s biggest challenges Together is better Moving home. Solving disputes. Divorce. Probate.

Estate planning. Complicated issues, often a worry.

But the support and advice from our experienced lawyers will guide you through the process. When you’re facing life’s big decisions, together is better.

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DAY ONE OF THE REST OF YOUR LIFE… Visualising what you want in retirement before you get there may lead to greater fulfilment, writes Alastair Brown of Raymond James

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ike all major life events, transitioning to retirement will be an adjustment.

One day you may go from your seat at the top as a powerful executive to an armchair in your living room. It is important that you are ready for that change, so you can step into your new life with confidence. Without your career to define you, you will want to discover new purpose.

Finding the answer takes a lot of preparation – emotionally, physically and financially – and a lot of thought. While the financial component is critical to a sustainable retirement people often forget

to consider the psychological factors. If you can start visualising your ideal retirement now, you will set yourself up for a more satisfying and fulfilling one.

THINKING AHEAD

Experts say a steady transition into retirement makes for a more successful one. One psychologist suggests focusing on these key areas to consider the life you’re looking for.

Focus on enhancing relationships.

Establish weekly game nights with friends or Sunday dinners with family, for example.

Be sure to maintain or expand your social life and stay connected. Studies show having friends and family for entertainment and support significantly enhances a retiree’s quality of life.

Keep your mental and physical health a priority. Set up and keep wellness appointments and exercise daily.

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Don’t forget to relax.You have earned it!

Take time for yourself when you need to and nap when you feel like it.

NEXT STEPS

As you approach retirement: • Visualise how you’d like to spend your days in retirement without a schedule to dictate your day.

• Consider each psychological/emotional aspect of your life to ensure it’s being fulfilled by your retirement plans.

Need help? Speak to one of our wealth managers today to ensure the financial plan you have in place will make your vision a reality. n

AS YOU WORK TO FOCUS IN ON THE ACTIVITIES THAT WILL HELP YOU LIVE WELL ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS, MAKE SURE YOUR VISION IS DETAILED IN A WELL-DOCUMENTED FINANCIAL PLAN Set key milestones and make sure you feel as financially secure as possible.

An adviser will make sure that your financial life is well organised, so you feel in control and won’t leave a mess behind for your loved ones when your time is up. Milestones are a bit like waypoints on a long journey, they enable you to check that you’re on course, without worrying about how much longer you’ve got to travel to get to the destination.

Most people’s principal financial milestone is to get to a place where money is not something they worry about, nor holds them back from living the life they want.

Stay young at heart. Take up an old hobby or find a new one, learn welding or Spanish, play a new instrument. The point is to plan and embark on a new adventure every week, even if that’s tutoring a student in maths or trying a new restaurant. Find something that keeps your brain firing.

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Risk Warning: Opinions constitute our judgement as of this date and are subject to change without warning. With investing, your capital is at risk

ONE DAY YOU MAY GO FROM YOUR SEAT AT THE TOP AS A POWERFUL EXECUTIVE TO AN ARMCHAIR IN YOUR LIVING ROOM Be kind. Acts of kindness make everyone feel good. Volunteer, donate time or money, or contribute to your community in another way.

As you work to focus in on the activities that will help you live well on a day-to-day basis, make sure your vision is detailed in a well-documented financial plan. Being able to clearly articulate your vision helps to prioritise your needs, wants and wishes in order to figure out how to make them a reality.

Raymond James 8 Berry Lane Longridge, Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

WORK YOUR WAY AT L O N G R I D G E BUSINESS HUB Make a home for your business with a private office at Longridge Business Hub. Our serviced offices have everything taken care of - from the furniture to the smoking-fast WiFi - so you can focus on driving your business forward. Find flexible office space for rent for as little as a day or stay for longer and personalise your space to suit the unique needs of your business.

Our workspaces enable you to work whenever you need to, in a productive, professional environment, close to clients, partners, suppliers or home. Create a workplace that’s right for your business today – and tomorrow – and thrive among the local community.

hat want a relime every time.

HELLO@LONGRIDGEBUSINESSHUB.CO.UK

We offer a number of different office space options: SERVICED OFFICES

Fully equipped, private workspace space in the centre of Longridge’s bustling high street. The development gives you an established base for your business. It would be your workspace with no access to anyone but yourself, 24-7 hours a day, 7 days a week with office amenities included. All our serviced offices are fully supported by our professional facilities Coordinator, enabling you to focus on your business.

DAY OFFICE

Access a fully equipped, private office space from as little as one day. Your day office comes with all the things you need to get straight to work – including business-grade WiFi and high-quality furniture – so you can do your best work. All rates and services included, everything you need to get to work.

Contact us today to arrange a viewing.

FACEBOOK.COM/LONGRIDGEBUSINESSHUB

FOR SALE 1966 AUSTIN HEALY 3000 MK3 This much loved car is now on the market ready for a summer of fun.

Ideal for classic car drivers that want a reliable car they can just jump into on a warm summers day. This car drives beautifully starting first time every time. The BMIHT certificate confirms this Austin Healy 3000 MK3 Ph2 RHD was built in 1966. Spending its early years in Boston, USA, it returned to the UK in 1990 where it was converted to a RHD and lovingly restored both mechanically and cosmetically. Dark blue over white complemented with a grey leather trim and chrome wired wheels.

The original engine remains and this, along with the transmission, wasn’t neglected during this renovation.The gearbox was rebuilt and flywheel lightened, the engine opened up and new pistons fitted. The accompanying history file confirms that the whole engine assembly was balanced along with the lightened flywheel. A reliable classic car that you can jump into and drive away, this car drives like a big Healey should!

Mileage is approx. 54,000. Price ORO £54,550.

For further information or to view the car please call 07976 623008.

MEN’S SKIN HEALTH SPECIAL WITH DISCOVER LASER

www.consultingroom.com PATIENT RATING 5/5

SKIN PROBLEMS

AND HOW TO TREAT THEM Skin care was once considered ‘just for women’ but the specialist doctors at Discover Laser are welcoming a growing number of men to their skin clinic for dermatology and rejuvenation

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ore and more men are investing in their skin health and appearance. Some have seen the positive effects of their partner’s treatment, while others have picked up from the media that non-surgical and surgical treatments are for them too.

While they have a common desire to resolve skin issues and look and feel their best, their reasons for wanting treatment are varied.

I’m troubled by brown patches, lumps and bumps on my skin Many men have neglected their skin (most of us are guilty of not using sunscreen) and have age spots, pigmentation, broken veins and blemishes. Most are nothing to be worried about, but it’s worth getting anything unusual checked out by someone qualified in dermatology. Harmless, or more serious, you can choose to have effective non-surgical and surgical treatments done privately. Blemishes big and small can be banished quickly and effectively with minimal downtime.

I look tired all the time Stress and fast living takes its toll physically and is most evident on the face. Many men want to look ‘fresh-faced’ and maintain their appearance to compete in the job market.

Smoothing out lines and sagging features with wrinkle-smoothing injections and

dermal fillers gives a stronger, more confident look without looking ‘frozen’ or over-done.

My face is red like a heavy drinker Men are often troubled by flushing, facial redness and facial veins. Unbeknown to them, they have a blood vessel disorder called Rosacea, which affects the face, and is made worse by sun, stress, spicy food and alcohol.

While there is no permanent cure, symptoms can be greatly reduced through a highly effective combination of treatment which includes laser. The results make a dramatic difference to their confidence and appearance.

My excess hair is a pain While many men are thankful for the hair they still have, some have too much. Shaving and painful waxing can lead to annoying bouts of razor burn and ingrowing hairs.

Men are starting to discover the benefits of permanent laser hair reduction, which ends the constant cycle of hair removal and the problems it causes.

The amount I sweat is embarrassing Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) causes men to be soaked under their arms even when not working out. Those who change shirts several times a day can have injections to get heavy perspiration and confidence under control.

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

www.discoverlaser.co.uk

My scar stands out on screen From work meetings to family catch-ups, we now spend a lot of time on camera.

Scars we’ve lived with for years (from acne, accident or illness) can suddenly seem more evident. Their appearance can be improved with clinically proven treatments that start a repair process leading to a smoother, flatter, and more even surface.

Discover Laser provides an environment where men can feel comfortable and not intimidated. They aim to exceed their expectations and deliver safe subtle improvements to help them feel better about their appearance.

DISCOVER LASER IS AN AMAZING PLACE TO VISIT AND HAVE TREATMENT...

THE EXPERIENCE AND PROFESSIONALISM HERE WAS FIRST CLASS. THE RESULTS ARE AMAZING TOO. ~ CRAIG, PRESTON ~

DR. MIGUEL MONTERO Principal Aesthetic Doctor

DR. ARIF ASLAM Consultant Dermatologist

To book a General Skin or Dermatology Consultation with Discover Laser’s resident skin experts call 01282 420886 To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

BECOME A CONVERT If you’ve never driven a convertible, you need to check out the BMW 4 Series, a sleek open-top four-seater that has power and pace, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

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irst impressions do count. Whether you’re choosing a house, a hotel, a pet or a partner – but especially when you’re choosing a car!

From the moment you make eye contact you know whether this is the one for you.

Hard to explain, it’s just a gut feeling.

A feeling you certainly get when being first introduced to the BMW 4 Series Convertible – a sporty car of genuine elegance with instant, stop-you-in-your tracks appeal.

Down the decades, convertibles have always had something of an edge over the rest on appearance, but this latest BMW variant is the new benchmark.

And, difficult as it might be to believe, the handling and functionality are every bit as good as the look.

Pure, dynamic, driving pleasure combined

with the allure of exclusive open-air motoring, make this open-top, four-seater (not many of those around) a highly-compelling proposition in a competitive marketplace.

First up, the overall handling is nothing short of magnificent. This is a car of power and pace, but one that holds the road superbly and takes the corners like a dream. Not at any point does it threaten to race out of your control.

THE OVERALL HANDLING IS NOTHING SHORT OF MAGNIFICENT With a low centre of gravity and perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics, the BMW 4 Series Convertible offers sharp response across all petrol and diesel options with all models complying with the Euro 6d emissions standard.

The flagship M440i xDrive comes with 374hp and 500Nm of torque and powers from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds. Supporting the twin power turbo six-cylinder petrol

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engine is a 48V mild hybrid battery, which helps with stop/start functionality, boosts acceleration and also delivers favourably in terms of fuel consumption.

Impressive stuff, but you can expect excellence and performance whatever your fancy or budget, like eight-speed Steptronic transmission for starters.

Inside there is an ambience of quality and flair with driver-centric cockpit design, electrically adjustable sports seats in the front with automatically extending and retracting belt feeders, Vernasca leather trim and seat heating, plus leather sports steering wheel. The two rear seats are individually styled and there are harmoniously designed surfaces on the instrument panel, door panel trim and rear passenger compartment.

The BMW 4 Series Convertible perfectly suits both everyday journeys and longer distance trips. Storage options are surprisingly good and the top-class equipment make open-top driving an even more pleasurable experience.

Optional wind deflectors can be stored behind the rear backrest and optional neck warmers are integrated into the front head restraints. Three-zone automatic climate control is standard and also available are ambient lighting features with welcome light carpet, Harman Kardon surround sound system and an auxiliary heating system controlled via smartphone or the BMW display key.

There is front collision warning with brake intervention, lane departure warning including lane return with steering assistance and speed limit info system. Optional driving

assistant professional adds a number of features including steering and lane control assistant with the new active navigation and emergency lane assistant functions.

There is also innovative 3D visualisation of the surrounding area in the digital instrument cluster.

ONE LEADING MOTOR CRITIC, NOTED MORE FOR FAULT-FINDING THAN PLAUDITS, TERMED IT ‘HIGHLYRECOMMENDED’ Park distance control with sensors at the front and rear come as standard while an optional parking assistant also includes reversing assistant. The latest generation of BMW head-up display and BMW drive recorder are also available.

The glorious BMW Operating System 7 provides the platform for individually configurable, personalised content in the control display (measuring up to 10.25 inches) and the optional 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. There is intuitive, multimodal operation using the control display touchscreen, iDrive controller, steering wheel buttons or voice control and BMW intelligent personal assistant

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with new graphics in the control display.

A cloud-based navigation system (BMW Maps) provides fast, precise calculation of routes and arrival times, real-time traffic data updated at frequent intervals and a facility for entering any word when searching for destination.

Featuring Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and now also Android Auto, wireless connection via wi-fi, all information is shown in the control display, the instrument cluster and head-up display.

In short, it wants for nothing. One leading motor critic, noted more for fault-finding than plaudits, termed it ‘highly-recommended’.

High praise indeed.

The BMW 4 Series Convertible is a motor for anyone who loves carefree driving, coupled with a touch of panache and excitement.

If you’ve never tried a ‘drop top’ then check it out.You might well become a ‘convert’! n

Bowker BMW Trident Park, Trident Way Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274444 bowkermotorgroup.co.uk @BowkerBMW @BowkerMotorGroup BowkerMotorGroup @BowkerBMW TM

INSIDE STERLING AUTOMOTIVE: THE GREAT BRITISH LUXURY CAR DETAILER Luxury comes in many forms. For some, its time. For others, it’s exploration. For Sterling Automotive - the North West-based luxury vehicle detailing specialists - it’s craftsmanship and detail

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room floor. But there are a select few that match the esteem and aura of Sterling Automotive, ones that live and breathe the company’s fixation on quality and style. And it’s those that make it to the design phase.

This is the first hurdle - the forging of a concept. Most ideas are left on the cutting

Using parts manufactured in the UK, each concept is meticulously refined into a workable component that reflects the brand in its truest sense. Long days are spent inside Sterling Automotive’s state-of-the-art workshop placing and replacing, finding the right blend of aesthetic and tone to take a piece from concept to construct. And only once it receives a strict seal of approval, when the design has been mastered and there’s

terling Automotive’s obsessive detailing is born at the beginning of every project. Often finding themselves surrounded by some of the automotive world’s most beautiful creations, from the E-Type Jaguar to the Land Rover Defender, Managing Director, Carl Williamson, and Brand Director, Doug Topott, start by envisaging an end goal - one which is more extensive and accomplished than anything else on the market. They talk, sketch, reflect, spending hour upon hour poring over every minute detail that makes a Sterling Automotive vehicle unique.

nothing more to give, does it then find its resting place through the hands of a condensed team of expert fitters.

Every external component adheres to the same process. Each element is intensely scrutinised in-house to ensure it meets the demands and expectations of the discerning customer. It’s why every Sterling Automotive vehicle tells its own story. It provides an insight into the craft, the toil, the relentless pursuit of excellence. It defines a company - a company that takes you on another journey when you set foot inside one of its creations.

Luxury is defined as a state of great comfort or elegance. It’s desirable and one which

brings pleasure. It’s the highest-grade, handtrimmed, bespoke-styled perforated Italian leather seats. It’s the exclusive, hand-stitched leather gear selector. It’s the soft touch, 1500gsm floor furnishings that increase interior sophistication and reduce road noise.

It’s every expertly crafted, fully customisable hand-stitched element that unites as one to create an unmatched, unrelenting example of automotive design royalty.

But deep in the Lancashire hills, surrounded by a small team of dedicated experts, the highest-quality materials and the latest advancements in vehicle design technology sits a unique selection of Sterling Automotive creations. From the refined and remastered Audi Q8 to the bespoke Ford Ranger Wildtrak and Transit Custom utilitarian all proudly standing, representing British elegance and exclusivity with one extremely important component missing. Something that helps transform a Sterling creation into more than just finely-crafted materials and tightly-tuned performance. The one thing that gives every Sterling Automotive vehicle its purpose.

You. Find your unique luxury creation at sterling-automotive.co.uk

Highlights From The Sterling Range Sterling Heritage Land Rover Defenders The aim of our Defender programme was to build on the synergy between the classic and new Land Rover Defender.The focal point of both vehicles is the front grille and bumper assembly, which were designed in tandem to bolster the rugged DNA of the Defender.

The synergy between the two is continued inside, with contemporary styling paired with world-leading quality materials creating a group of interiors that are unmatched in the market.

Audi Q8 The Sterling Automotive Audi Q8 redefines German automotive elegance through attentive British detailing which creates a subtly bold finish. The 16-piece Britishcrafted package provides a defined subtlety, which includes modifications to the front and rear corners, splitter, roof wing and the addition of 22” custom alloy wheels with bronze callipers.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class The fundamental concept behind our Mercedes-Benz C-Class was to compose subtle to orchestrate the most dramatic changes. The C-Class conversion is intellectually designed to possess a more imposing stance and identity including extended and exaggerated aerodynamics, a complete front grille replacement and our signature Hemiola interior, providing an unprecedented example of British design, craftsmanship and comfort.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Through Sterling Utility, the iconic Ford Transit Ranger is reimagined both inside and out, evolving from a rugged, no-nonsense workhorse into a bespoke symbol of modernday luxury. The exterior consists of a full Sterling Ranger bodywork conversion which creates a more imposing and aggressive posture, alongside Mustang front headlights, smoked taillights, upgraded 20-inch black Sterling alloy wheels and a fully bespoke interior package.

View our entire vehicle range at sterling-automotive.co.uk.

WHAT’S THE FREQUENCY, CHRIS? Whalley-born Chris Henry has been credited by a Ryder Cup player and several snooker world champions as a key component in their success.

He talks to David Fearnhead about how he came to create his Neural Rewiring process and its life-changing potential

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ould it really be 40 years since John McEnroe uttered his immortal line, ‘You cannot be serious!’ Modern technology may have proven him right, the ball was indeed ‘on the line’, but one question remains. How good could he have been if, like Roger Federer, he had learned to curb his volcanic temper?

The answer could surprisingly be not as good. What’s worth remembering is that his most quoted outburst came in

the first round of Wimbledon 1981 – a championship he would go on to win by finally beating his great rival Björn Borg.

Only in recent years did McEnroe re-evaluate and reveal that perhaps he knew what he was doing all along. That his loss of temper was actually a benefit.

“He was changing the neurotransmitters and chemicals in the brain,” explains Neural Rewiring coach Chris Henry. “Dopamine and endorphins are preferred brain hormones for performance rather than cortisol.

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Cortisol is anxiety, stress and fight-flight state related leading to increased heart rate, brainwaves and also promotes negative thoughts. So what McEnroe was doing was to change that state.”

However, there’s more to it than just yelling at the linesman. “To play at your optimal level you need to be in what we call alpha brainwave state, which is a calm state. So, it’s alright letting it blast, but in that blast needs to be positive reminders of process keys that promote high levels of performance, but you quickly need to calm yourself down. It’s a bit like tuning into the right radio frequency allowing the optimum brainwave state to communicate with the physical body via electrical impulses.”

In order to do that requires, at risk of sounding like Liam Neeson, a very special set of skills. Skills which Chris has studied,

honed and now teaches. Speaking to Chris is a fascinating insight into the human mind.

His passion for neuroscience is clear and so too is his desire to awaken others to its practical application.

His own journey of discovery started in an unlikely venue – a snooker hall toilet.

Chris was on a hot streak at the 1988 Dutch championship. He’d looked comfortable in both the quarters and semis, but the final was different. It was being televised live all over Europe and in the 80’s snooker drew viewers by their millions. “I couldn’t hold my cue, I was that nervous and anxious.

I didn’t even want to be in the room,” confesses Chris.

After losing the first two frames he took a toilet break. “I just let rip at myself, not realising that that was actually a good thing to do. By doing so I’d managed to change the chemicals in my brain and as a result, my emotional state.”

What happened next would be life changing. He went on to win 5-4. “I did an interview after the final and mentioned I was going down to Antwerp for a couple of days to do some coaching. There was a Belgian businessman watching on television who owned the club that I was going to, along with 11 other clubs. He introduced himself to me, congratulated me on the win and offered me a contract.”

The 12-month contract came with a salary, a car, and a house for his use.

“I was 24 at the time, so I was interested,” says Chris with a wry smile. The house turned out to be in the stunning medieval city of Bruges – a place he calls home today: “It grabbed hold of me straight away and I accepted.”

Losing his mother Sheila through cancer a year later saw him return home to live with his father, Thomas, in Accrington.

Then after two years in England he decided to head back to Belgium.

However, he never forgot that moment in the toilet of a Dutch snooker hall. He was curious as to why he felt so nervous and what had changed. It led him first to study psychology and then eventually

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into neuroscience. It brought a deep understanding of what actually happened to him and if you can understand it, you can replicate it and teach it to others.

Key to his understanding is that the subconscious brain doesn’t know the difference between fantasy and reality.

“A neuroscientist I met in San Diego explained to me that belief and habit are the two things that control performance and that there are clusters of neurons and connections in your brain caused by repetition. The exciting thing is you can design your neurons and connections with what you choose to wire in there via the five senses plus motion and visualisation.”

TO PLAY AT YOUR OPTIMAL LEVEL YOU NEED TO BE IN WHAT WE CALL ALPHA BRAINWAVE STATE, WHICH IS A CALM STATE It’s this neural rewiring process, an upgrade in brain software, that has seen Chris guide professional golfer Rafa Cabrera Bello to be a leading European point scorer in the 2016 Ryder Cup and Rolex series winner in 2017. This year Chris made history by coaching both players in the World Professional Snooker Championship final. His accomplishments as a coach are many but his process is not exclusive to sport.

“It’s a technique that anyone can use,” says Chris. “Everything we’ve been through with the pandemic has resulted in a lot more fear and anxiety than normal. There’s a lot of people getting into a more depressed state of mind.

Beliefs and habits are the two keys and I’m now looking to get in front of people via corporate training and open seminars to explain and teach this subconscious emotion-controlling process.” n

chrishenryinternational.com

START RAISING YOUR GAME - TODAY The Ultimate Practice Environment and Your Pathway To Perform

JOIN NOW PERFORMANCE GOLF ACADEMY at CLITHEROE GC Academy membership packages from £199 You do not need to be a member of Clitheroe Golf Club to join

Offering an unrivalled teaching & practice experience for players to learn, improve and hone their game throughout the year, utilising the very latest in cutting-edge technology.

Director of Golf, Wayne Johnson, has assembled a team of experienced & knowledgeable PGA coaches and designed a purpose built golf academy to deliver an exciting range of instructional programmes to cater for all abilities.

3 month | 6 month | 12 month memberships

Academy membership includes: Unlimited practice access to the Performance Golf Academy for membership duration: Grass & undercover synthetic practice tee Short game practice zone – bunker practice green — practice fairway Unlimited use of premium quality Srixon practice balls Monthly group golf clinic 18-hole green fee vouchers Social membership of Clitheroe Golf Club

pgaclitheroe.co.uk hello@pgaclitheroe.co.uk 01200 422292 – Option: Golf Reception Performance Golf Academy at Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 1PP

LET THE FUN BE-GIN Some of the best gins in the UK are produced by artisan makers here in the Ribble Valley, many of whom use ultimately sustainable methods to create their award-winning spirits

W

hen the trend for artisan gins rocketed, who could have predicted that the Ribble Valley would become one of the UKs most prolific producers.

Micro-distilleries popped up all over the region and today, we have some world class, award-winning artisan producers here in Lancashire.

Since it launched its first hand-crafted gin, Ribble Valley Gin has gone from strength to strength, Cuckoo Gin produced at Brindle Distillery has just launched its fifth gin Supernova, Bashall Spirits, Batch and Lytham Gin – all are producing first rate gins.

A perfect example is Cuckoo Gin made at Holmes Farm’s Brindle Distillery. Nestling in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, all the raw materials that go into Cuckoo

come directly from the farm or are sourced locally – even a natural spring on the farmland delivers water that is used in the distillation process and for cooling the still.

WE HAVE SOME WORLD CLASS, AWARD-WINNING ARTISAN PRODUCERS HERE IN LANCASHIRE In 2017 the Singleton family who have farmed the land around Holmes Farm for many years, saw an opportunity to use their land and resources to diversify into distilling sustainably hand-crafted spirits.

Sustainability is key at Brindle Distillery – the cows are fed the spent grains from the distilling process, the pigs love the delicious

used garnishes while the bees that buzz around the wildflower meadows on the farm make the delicious honey used in Cuckoo Sunshine Gin. “Being hands-on at every stage, we create truly artisan spirits made with dedication, care and passion,” says master distiller Mark Long, of Brindle Distillery, which has just launched Supernova.

“People are changing their drinking habits, they are inviting people to their homes for garden parties and we think Supernova is going to be the star of the summer!” adds Mark, who has also been instrumental in designing a UK-made bespoke bottle for Cuckoo.

The bottles are made in Leeds and have ‘Lancashire’ etched into the glass – making them totally unique to Cuckoo.

Another example is award-winning Ribble Valley Gin that was founded by Luke Moyes and Justine Harrison – a young couple, who spent two years researching the best way to develop a first class gin that breaks the mould in terms of taste and smoothness. Their first gin – Little Lane – was made in a still sourced from Kentucky and shipped to their base in Longridge.

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Using a vapour infusion method, the gin produced by the still is clean-tasting with flavours that can be clearly identified.

Today, Ribble Valley gin continues to produce their signature Little Lane as well as developing four others gins, Country Market a vegetable-based gin, Garden Party – featuring rose, honeysuckle, strawberries, marigold and hibiscus giving this gin a light fruity floral flavour, Winter’s Night a warming gin featuring cinnamon and cloves and their latest Kingsman gin, which has been dedicated to the Duke of Lancaster’s regiment in order to support the regimental charity that helps serving soldiers, veterans and their families.

PEOPLE ARE CHANGING THEIR DRINKING HABITS AND THEY ARE INVITING PEOPLE TO THEIR HOMES FOR GARDEN PARTIES Celebrating recently at the Gin Guide Awards were Fiona McNeill and Hamish Allan of Ribble Valley-based Bashall Spirits. With hundreds of entries from over 30 different countries, Bashall Spirits’ Damson and Elderberry Gin was announced as a winner in the Flavoured Category for 2021. Fiona and Hamish created this award-winning gin, based on a great aunt’s damson wine recipe which added a twist of rich elderberries.

Bashall Spirits’ entire flavour range – Orange & Quince inspired by a collection of handwritten marmalade or ‘marmalet’ recipes from the 1750s, Parkin Cake which captures the comforting aromas and flavours of treacle and ginger taken from a recipe from the Victorian era, and the Damson and Elderberry which harks back to a time when flavoured wines were commonly created from hedgerow ingredients – also

received silver medals in the 2021 London Spirits Competition, joining the London Dry, which received silver the previous year.

Their London Dry is inspired by the moorland surrounding Bashall Eaves and features 11 botanicals including cranberry, elderflower and caraway, homage to the native woodland and hedgerow plants.

Burnley-based Batch Gin supplies Booths, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Fortnum and Mason and exports to the USA, Canada, China, Italy and Austria winning numerous awards.

As for many people, 2020 was a year when Batch became all too familiar with Zoom. The team hosted live Facebook cocktail demonstrations that included

Q&A sessions with the team. In May 2020 Batch released Don’t Bottle It Up, a fruity and floral gin with a deeper message – raising awareness and money for local mental health charities.

Lytham Gin by Sandgrown Spirits is one of the UK’s leading and most awarded craft gin producers. All of the Lytham Gin range is unapologetically juniper-led, using the best possible ingredients, many of which are home grown or foraged.

Lytham Original Dry Gin recently won the Traditional Gin category in the 2021 Gin Guide Awards to the delight of founder Sara Dewhurst, who spent years sampling different gins from around the world, talking to mixologists and distillers to discover the flavour profiles she wanted to create and share.

Whatever your taste in gin, there’s plenty of new and exciting flavours being developed in the heart of rural Lancashire. n

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smooth gin is a wonderfully sweet and summery spirit.

CUCKOO SOLACE

SUPERNOVA:

THE STAR OF THE SUMMER Master distiller Mark Long explains the ethos behind the legendary Cuckoo Gin, which has won numerous worldwide awards

I

t’s been an exciting few months for Brindle Distillery, which produces award-winning Cuckoo Gin. Not only has the distillery launched its fifth gin – Supernova, which is set to the be the star of the summer – it has also designed its own gin bottle with ‘Lancashire’ etched into the eco-friendly glass.

Eighteen months in the making, the bespoke Cuckoo spirits bottle, ‘Shaped

by Nature’, is made in Leeds and is a beautifully decorated adaptation of an off-the-shelf option which launched in 2017, when Brindle Distillery started handcrafting spirits on their Lancashire farm.

Today, the bottles are being used for gins across the Cuckoo range including the new Supernova – a gin that explodes with fresh grapefruit and pomelo.

With soothing, mellow and comforting aromas, Cuckoo Solace is a savoury combination of home-grown botanicals, teamed with olives and vibrant flavours of lemon and fresh grapefruit. A percentage of profits from each bottle sold is donated to Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust to help raise awareness of cervical cancer screening.

CUCKOO SPICED

Cuckoo Spiced Gin features clove, ginger, cinnamon, fennel and lemongrass, followed by spicy Tellicherry black pepper then mellowed with hints of jasmine, fig, rosehips and the unmistakable scent of tonka beans with a sharp orange finish.

CUCKOO SIGNATURE

Cuckoo Signature Gin is a complex, smooth gin. After a slightly sweet, piney juniper start, the flavour develops into citrus from orange, grapefruit and lemons.

With a lingering taste of cinnamon spice and liquorice, Cuckoo Signature is dry on the finish with a peppery kick from coriander seeds. n

For more information about the Cuckoo’s Nest bar and Cuckoo Tours and Workshops go to: brindledistillery.co.uk

CUCKOO SUPERNOVA

“We are so proud to be producing gin here in Lancashire so we thought it was fitting that it features on the bottle and we are also dedicated to sustainability so the new bottle is 50 per cent lighter than the previous ones and uses recycled glass, so it’s better for the environment,” explains Brindle’s director and master distiller, Mark Long.

Created over three years, Supernova features three different distillations of grapefruit – dried, fresh and Brindle’s specially created grapefruit oil – this has been blended with a juniper heavy gin base to give a real explosion of grapefruit with every sip!

CUCKOO SUNSHINE

Buzzing with natural honey produced on the distillery farm by Lancashire honeybees, and infused with mouthwatering raspberries, this refreshingly

Brindle Distillery Holmes Farm, Sandy Lane Brindle PR6 8LZ 01772 323313 brindledistillery.co.uk

T H E LY T H A M L A D Y

BASHALL CLUB

A dignified delight: the citrus flavours balance out the sweetness of the honey

Sweet strawberry, tart lemon and Damson & Elderberry Gin makes the delectable Bashall Club

- 50ml Bee’s Knees - Old Tom Lytham Gin - 20ml Cointreau - 20ml lemon juice - 2.5ml sugar syrup egg white

- 50ml Bashall Damson & Elderberry Gin - 5ml lemon juice - 20ml strawberry puree - 1 egg white

northcote.com

bashallspirits.co.uk

IN THE MIX These gin cocktails are the perfect summer drink for you to enjoy at home

PINK CLOVER CLUB Ribble Valley Gin’s take on the classic cocktail - 75ml Garden Party Gin - juice of 1 lime - 1 dash of Grenadine - 1 egg white - ice cubes -stawberry slices, to decorate ribblevalleygin.co.uk

CUCKOO SOLACE GIN DIRTY MARTINI Solace: comfort in a time of uncertainty - 50ml Cuckoo Solace Gin - 12.5ml Vermouth (e.g. Doin or Noilly Prat) - 12.5ml olive brine brindledistllery.co.uk

Available to buy at

www.bashallspirits.co.uk Follow us online

SINGLES SUPPER CLUB IS BACK! After an enforced absence of 18 months due to the Covid restrictions on numbers we are delighted to announce the return of the club in September 2021.

Join our host Lynn Scholes for a fantastic first event at

- ARE YOU SINGLE AND OVER 40?

BLACK BULL, OLD LANGHO, Old Langho Rd, Blackburn BB6 8AW

- DO YOU LIKE GREAT FOOD AND GOOD COMPANY ?

THURSDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 2021 7pm for 7:30pm

£45 to include three delicious courses with fizz on arrival Please contact supperclubenquiries@live-magazines.co.uk for more details on the club and how to book.

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food&drink Bringing together juicy tomatoes, carrots and sweet shallots, gives it a subtle savoury and slightly sweet finish.

Botanicals also include beetroot, peppers, basil, pink peppercorns and wild thyme.

• Garden Party: a summer gin, created to celebrate the beautiful English garden.

Using rose, honeysuckle, strawberries, marigold and hibiscus giving this gin light fruity and flora notes throughout. Garden Party gives you a true sense of summer, perfect for the warm summer nights.

• Winter’s Night: taking inspiration from Christingle this combines peppery citrus with smoky black cardamom. It is the perfect tipple to warm you through the festive season. Botanicals include, mistletoe herb, sloe berries, cloves, cinnamon and winter thyme.

TASTE OF SUCCESS The success of Ribble Valley Gin continues unabated, leading to the founders looking for new premises in which to expand their artisan business

S

ince launching their first Little Lane signature gin, Ribble Valley Gin has enjoyed ongoing success – with their most recent spirit, Kingsman Gin, being made exclusively for the Duke of Lancaster’s regiment and enjoyed by the Queen!

As Colonel in Chief to the regiment, the Queen was sent a bottle of Kingsman following a request from Buckingham Palace: “We were delighted when the palace responded to an email saying that, yes, the Queen would very much like us

to send her a bottle!” explain company founders Justine Harrison and Luke Moyes.

It has been a project close to the couple’s hearts, Luke having served with the regiment.

They set out to formulate a unique gin to support the regimental charity that helps serving soldiers, veterans and their families, and having extensively researched the regiment’s history, have created the gin to reflect the regiment’s heroic achievements.

Using botanicals that grew on the battlefields and to symbolise significant celebration days, has resulted in a complex zesty gin as Justine explains: “We have used red rose petals to symbolise St George’s Day, poppies to commemorate the Battle of the Somme and orange zest to reflect the regiment’s presence at the Battle of Arroyo.”

After taking out their distilling costs to make the gin, all proceeds from Kingsman go to the regimental charity.

Joining the hugely success Kingsman in the Ribble Valley Gin line-up is: • Little Lane Gin: a unique layering of rich and delicate botanicals creating an elegant dusty floral and hedgerow gin, this gin perfectly reflects the Ribble Valley countryside. Botanicals include stinging nettles, blackberries, oak, meadowsweet and pine.

• Country Market: this second signature gin pays homage to the simple vegetable patch and the traditional country market for a contemporary take on a classic gin.

Longridge-based Ribble Valley gin uses a copper still sourced from Kentucky to make their hugely popular spirits that have been so successful that Justine and Luke are now on the lookout for larger premises.

“Ideally we need to build a larger distillery and we would also like to see a gin school in there and maybe a pop-up shop – that’s our plan. We are very excited about the future for Ribble Valley Gin!” adds Justine. n

Ribble Valley Gin Little Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3NS 01772 597791 ribblevalleygin.co.uk TM

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One of our favourite things that our guests say, is that when they think of Gilpin, they think of love and laughter – ours, and theirs – which is such a lovely compliment. At the heart of Gilpin is a passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for our guests, who return time and again for romance, celebrations and escapes. For us, hospitality starts with a very warm welcome and ends with a friendly goodbye, with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences in between. We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

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

015394 88818

www.thegilpin.co.uk

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TTHHEESSTTEEAAKKHHOOUUSSEE Mon Mon&&Tue Tue Closed Closed Wed Wed&&Thu Thu 6~8:30pm 6~8:30pm Friday Friday 6~9pm 6~9pm Saturday Saturday 12~2pm 12~2pm 6~9pm 6~9pm Sunday Sunday 12~5:30pm T H E S T E12~5:30pm AKHOUSE

Mon & Tue Closed Clitheroe Clitheroe Road, Road,6~8:30pm Bashall BashallEaves, Eaves, Wed & Thu Clitheroe, Clitheroe,BB7 BB73DA 3DA Friday01254 6~9pm 01254826227 826227 Saturday 12~2pm 6~9pm

Welcome back!

We have our new a la carte, pub grub and salad menus available.

Lunch and Tea time treats £14 2 courses and £18.50 3 courses Wednesday to Friday 12 – 2pm and 6-7pm, Saturdays 12 – 2pm FOOD SERVING HOURS

COME AND JOIN US...

Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm

Outdoor seating area for drinks and food.

Sunday – 12 noon to 6:30pm Sunday Lunch £20.50 2 courses £26.50 3 courses.

10 beautiful bedrooms also available from £94 per night bed and breakfast.

Booking recommended 01200 443339 3 Millstones Inn, Waddington Rd, West Bradford BB7 4SX

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Dine in the heart of the action at The Chef ’s Table…the best seats in the house!

If you’ve ever looked in amazement at the dish presented to you and wondered how it’s created, here’s your opportunity to witness all the culinary action right before your eyes.

Watch the brigade at work in the Michelin star kitchen. You’ll be up close with the chefs as they create the masterpieces you’ll be enjoying.

• Sliding glass doors bring you into the kitchen • Screens to watch close-ups, or switch over to a sporting event • Dedicated Front of House Team and Sommelier • Choose to enjoy The Seasonal Lunch, Tasting or Gourmet Menu or a bespoke menu

The best seats in the house

Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography mantha phy Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography

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• Available for parties of 6* for lunch or dinner bookings.

PatsyHolmfirth - Tripadvisor

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A leading member of the kitchen team will be on hand talk you through your chosen menu and you will have a dedicated team of waiting staff to look after you for the duration of your visit.

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 Road, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE 8BE rthcote ho, Blackburn, Road,Northcote Langho, Lancashire Northcote Blackburn, Road, BB6Langho, 8BE Langho, Lancashire Blackburn, BB6 8BE Lancashire BB6 8BE |events@northcote.com | www.northcote.com | Email: | www.northcote.com Telephone: 01254 240 555 Email: Telephone: 240 555|555 |01254 || Email: |events@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 Email: 01254 events@northcote.com 240 www.northcote.com events@northcote.com www.northcote.com | | | | @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK | |@NorthcoteUK |||/NorthcoteUK || northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk northcoteuk *Subject to Government Covid restrictions - groups of up to six, or two households of any size.

CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS! With some fantastic events in the pipeline, the team at the Black Bull is looking forward to a fun-filled summer

C

onstantly refreshing what they do to keep ahead of the game, the team at the Black Bull Inn have a line-up of fabulous events this summer!

Expect acoustic jazz evenings, a saxophonist and a sunshine-filled Caribbean Christmas!

“Everyone missed out on a proper Christmas last year so we decided to go one better – we’ll be getting our Bermuda shorts on, there will be a Caribbean-style menu and of course, there will be a steel band!” says an enthusiastic Jamie Govier, who runs the pub with partner Rebecca Govier.

As just one of the highlights of the summer, the fun-filled Caribbean Christmas event will also see the team launch this year’s actual Christmas menu, which will feature first class food and a festive experience for which the Black Bull Inn has become renowned.

In recent weeks, the team has been

strengthened once again with an additional restaurant manager along with additional new chefs, who are putting a fresh twist on

WE’RE GETTING OUR FABULOUS EVENTS SCHEDULE OFF TO A GREAT START AND WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO A BUSY SUMMER!

the summer menu.

On both the a la carte and garden and bar menus, many favourites will remain but expect to find some new, exciting dishes with a truly modern take on traditional classics and fine dining.

Eating outdoors remains just as magical at the Black Bull Inn with its impressive stretch tent, known as the pavilion and new patio area, with twinkling pontoon lighting,

food&drink

outdoor heaters and comfortable seating.

“We have made the decision to retain table service even when all restrictions have been lifted,” says Jamie. “It has been really successful in terms of our guests engaging with our team and it also reflects the high level of service that we offer at the Black Bull Inn. Our aim has always been to focus on great service and customer experience.”

Over the coming months there will also be regular barbecues at the Black Bull Inn as well as pop-up street food: “We have already enjoyed a barbecue in the sunshine – it was really popular so we will definitely be organising more over the summer,” adds Jamie.

Inside there are distinct areas to the inn that lend themselves to very different dining experiences. The stunning Fire Barn restaurant represents an opportunity to enjoy fine dining with family and friends, while the rustic bar is the perfect place for walkers to enjoy a hearty meal and a pint

in front of a roaring log fire.

The cosy library has now become a piano room – with its grand piano and feature clock, this intimate space is now available for private dining with a tailored menu to suit small groups of guests.

EXPECT ACOUSTIC JAZZ EVENINGS, A SAXOPHONIST AND A SUNSHINE-FILLED CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS!

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Located in the heart of the Old Langho community, the historic Black Bull Inn has been transformed by Jamie and Rebecca into a fabulous 21st century venue that works on every level whilst retaining its centuries old character.

Paired with excellence in food and drink, the surroundings are elegant yet comfortable – meaning guests will have an ultimately enjoyable experience when they visit.

Creating something unique is what Jamie and Rebecca set out to do and they could not have wished for a more successful return after lockdown.

“It’s a very exciting time for us,” says Rebecca. “The outdoor area has been a phenomenal success so we’re not changing anything. We are also glad to be welcoming diners back inside too, so they have the best of both worlds.

“We’re getting our fabulous events schedule off to a great start and we are looking forward to a busy summer!” n

The Black Bull Old Langho Road Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801 enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk BlackBullLangho @blackbull_oldlangho

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 SMALL EATS

SALT & PEPPER

PRAWN CRACKERS £2.95

TRIPLE COOKED HAND CUT CHIPS £4.95

CRISPY DUCK ROLLS £6.50

CRISPY SQUID £7.95

CHICKEN £9.50

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI RIBS £7.50 SWEET STICKY CANTONESE RIBS £7.50

VEGAN

CRISPY KING PRAWN WONTON £7.50

VEGETABLE SPRING ROLLS £4.50

HONEY COATED SPICY CHICKEN

VEGETABLE GYOZA £5.50

IN BAMBOO £7.50

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI TOFU £5.95 (GF)

PORK CHIVE WAR TIP DUMPLINGS £5.95

SPICY FRIED SEASONAL VEGETABLES,

SALT & PEPPER MUSHROOMS (GF) £5.95

SPRING ONION, GINGER CHILLI £7.95

SESAME PRAWN TOAST & SEAWEED £6.95

SPICY SINGAPORE VEGAN VERMICELLI £8.95

1/4 CRISPY DUCK & PANCAKES, CUCUMBER, HOI SIN SAUCE £14.95

SPICY MALAYSIAN VEGETABLE FRIED RICE £8.50

BLACKBEAN – CHILLI, PEPPERS, GARLIC FILLET STEAK £14.50 CHAR SIU PORK £9.50

CHICKEN £9.50 KING PRAWN £12.50

FILLET STEAK £14.50 KING PRAWN £12.50 CHICKEN £9.50 CHARLIE YU’S (DAD’S) FAMOUS CURRY & CLASSICS CHICKEN CHOW MEIN £10.50

CHICKEN CURRY £9.50 CHICKEN FRIED RICE £9.50

SPECIAL FRIED RICE – CHICKEN, KING PRAWN, CHAR SIU £12.50 SPECIAL CHOW MEIN – CHICKEN, KING PRAWN, CHAR SIU £12.50

RICE /NOODLES STEAMED RICE £3.50

FRIED RICE £3.95 CRISPY NOODLES £4.95

CHICKEN & PRAWN SINGAPORE VERMICELLI £10.95 CHILDREN’S MEALS ALL SERVED WITH PRAWN CRACKERS CHICKEN NOODLES, BROCCOLI £7.50 CHICKEN, FRIED RICE £7.50 SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN WITH STEAMED RICE £7.50 COCKTAILS

FISH & SEAFOOD FILLET OF SEABASS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £16.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI KING PRAWNS £12.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI SCALLOPS OYSTER MUSHROOM £14.95 STIR FRY KING PRAWNS, PAK CHOI £12.50 (GF)

LYCHEE MARTINI

CHICKEN £9.50 KING PRAWN £12.50 CHAR SUI PORK PORK £9.50 CRISPY CHILLI STEAK £14.50

COSMOPOLITAN

PORN STAR MARTINI

SMALL (EQUIVALENT TO 2 COCKTAILS) £12.00 LARGE (EQUIVALENT TO 4 COCKTAILS) £20.00 FROZEN DAIQUIRI BEER

SWEET & SOUR CRISPY CHILLI CHICKEN £9.50

CHILLI, MIXED PEPPER, BLACKBEAN £9.95

SOFT NOODLES£4.95

CLASSIC HONG KONG SATAY

KING PRAWN CURRY £12.50

STIR FRIED BEYOND MEAT,

MELON £8.50

1 LARGE BEER £4.00

STRAWBERRY £8.50

3 LARGE BEERS £12.00

Please be advised that any allergens and intolerances should be reported to Yu Express before placing an order. Customers should be aware that although all due care is taken, there is a risk of allergen ingredients still being present. (GF) where marked is Gluten Free.

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

‘BACK TO WHAT WE DO BEST, COME AND JOIN US AT YU!’ V I C TO R MON - Closed TUE - 17:30 - 22:00 WED - 17:30 - 22:00 THU - 17:30 - 22:00 FRI - 17:30 - Until late SAT- 17:30 - Until late SUN - 17:00 - 22:00 YU COPSTER GREEN | 500 Longsight Road | Copster Green | BB1 9EU | 01254 240665 | yucopstergreen.co.uk yu_copstergreen

Isle of Wight Tomatoes

Whitby Cod

PROBABLY THE BEST VALUE LUNCH IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY?

W

e arrived at a very busy Freemasons on a beautiful June summer’s day. It was so encouraging to see a nearly full house that reflected the range of menus and hospitality at the award-winning eatery.

In my last meeting with Steven Smith, we’d talked a lot about value, and whether our readers truly understood what incredible value the set lunch and early supper is, so Rob and I thought we’d have a long catch up and put it through its paces.

We’d committed the time needed to savour each tasty morsel and every course – we kicked back and relaxed and enjoyed the first-class service for which the Freemasons has become synonymous.

I’ve asked in many of my

The best value lunch in the Ribble Valley? Tedd and Robert Walmsley put this bold claim by Steven Smith, chef patron of the Freemasons, to the test articles for patience from diners as the restaurants build up to full steam, though we needn’t have worried as a mix of old faces and new colleagues were

Herdwick Lamb

a great combination front of house. The Smiths were in the kitchen, so we knew we were in for a real treat.

So just to remind you that the two courses at just £22 or three courses at £27 already represents good value – add to it the pre-cursor titbits and treats and it would be hard to argue with Steven’s bold claim.

Small bite sized canapés, which had a salmon theme were light delicate and very tasty – this was swiftly followed by the signature bread and butter and, you guessed it, we were off on a culinary tour of delights.

With a 3-3-3 menu choice there was plenty to go at to suit both palate and hunger.

Rob had brought his A-game, voracious appetite and ordered

the flavoursome summer greens soup followed by a hearty lamb suet pudding. Plentiful, robust and very tasty.

Salmon roasted with samphire and a perfectly cooked sticky chicken dish with a light curry sauce and noodles were my choice of the day.

All three options on the menu looked amazing and would be well worth a second visit before it’s too late. I’m not sure how we found enough room for pudding, but we did and they were divine – sticky, sweet and the perfect way to end the meal. Replete, we relaxed and re-affirmed that we’d had an incredible meal complemented, as always, with perfect wine choices and it had proved beyond all doubt that it is indeed, incredible value for money.

I caught up with Steven

FORTHCOMING EVENTS EVERY WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY CHEF FOR THE DAY | Experience being a pro chef and then enjoy your hard work

THURSDAY 12th AUGUST | GLORIOUS TWELFTH Only 16 places in Mr Smith’s Kitchen – to feast on the freshest game of the day | 7pm | £70 per person EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS THREE COURSE SET MEAL Watch all the action and enjoy great food and drink

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WELCOME BACK MENU SET LUNCH AND EARLY SUPPER

Two courses £ 22.00 – three courses £ 27.00 Lunch: Wednesday to Friday: 12 noon - 2.30pm, Saturday: 12 noon - 2.30pm Dinner: Wednesday to Friday: 6pm - 7pm * STARTERS Soup Velouté of English summer greens, fondue of Lancashire cheese Wild Mushroom Pearl barley risotto, Wiswell fried sweetbread, aged parmesan Organic Salmon Roast loin, samphire, roe & dill, forager’s sauce * MAIN COURSES Herdwick Lamb Slow cooked shoulder steamed suet pudding, French style peas, Jersey Royals, sauce of mint Whitby Cod Roast loin, crispy potatoes with whipped cod’s roe, vegetable & herb nage Organic Chicken Slow cooked & sticky leg, buttermilk fried thigh, smoked egg noodles, Katsu curry sauce * DESSERTS Pavlova Peach jam, bergamot & vanilla cream, raspberry & lavender soup Croissant Bread & butter pudding, poached and sorbet of new season apricots, Earl Grey custard Cheese Selection of British artisan cheeses from Courtyard Dairy of Skipton and biscuits (£6.95 supplement)

Pavlova

Smith after lunch as Rob reluctantly headed back to the office, as I wanted to compliment him and the team for once again serving up a

Chicken Liver

feast with style. I did however notice two things on his desk – dare I say it Christmas menus.

I know it’s early but like many others the Freemasons will be launching these in September to match demand after the disastrous 2020 Christmas lockdown.

He also touched on some exciting great value mini-breaks incorporating the four on-site stunning rooms combined with the myriad dining choices and events to choose from.

The Freemasons is back doing what it does best! So, whether its lunch with family or friends be sure to get a date in your diary to visit. n

TASTY OPPORTUNITIES! Freemasons are hiring front of house and floor staff.

Do you have passion, ambition, commitment and the ability to work under pressure with a smile on your face, a love of great food and a drive for progressing within one of the UK’s most revered gastropubs?

Then look no further!

Email your CV and covering letter to: steven@freemasonswiswell.co.uk

THURSDAY 19th AUGUST FOOD & WINE CLUB 6pm – 6.30pm dining | Three courses | £60 per person

FREEMAATSWISWELL ONS Freemasons at Wiswell 8 Vicarage Fold Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218 freemasonsatwiswell.com

The Freemasons

2020

@wiswell chef

2020

2020

Culinary Excellence

Steven Smith Chef & Managing Director 01254 822218 ext 2 / 07794 408887 freemasonsatwiswell.com/steven-smith/consultancy

THURSDAY 23rd SEPTEMBER | EAST MEETS WEST Hosted by chef patron Steven Smith alongside guest head chef Victor Yu | £70 per person

MONDAY 30th AUGUST SUMMER BANK HOLIDAY LUNCH Served from 12 noon until 5pm | Three courses | £45 per person

A unique place to shop for local art and support Lancashire’s artists

Art

Jewellery

Experiences

Gifts

The Cartford Gallery is a re��ection of our love for art and creativity. It features a studio with resident artist and local jeweller Tanicia Hayton - amongst exhibitions and pieces from other local artists, group craf� workshops, homeware and gif�s. Relax and feel inspired whilst enjoying a co�fee and cake in this multi-purpose, creative workspace.

Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm

The Cartford Inn, Cartford Lane, Little Eccleston, PR3 0YP

@cartfordgallery www.cartford.gallery

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ON SCREEN

Anna Souroullas takes a look at the latest blockbusters, ready-to-stream films, Netflix exclusives and DVD releases

BLACK WIDOW

CINEMA RELEASE

Release Date: 9th July Director: Cate Shortland Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, William Hurt and Ray Winstone Certificate:

Following civil war, Natasha Romanoff finds herself alone. Forced to confront a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past, she is pursued by a force that will stop at nothing to bring her down. Natasha must deal with her history as a spy and the broken relationships she left in her wake long before becoming an avenger. Will Natasha’s past get the better of her? n

AWAKE Release Date: 20th August Director: Brian Andrew Mendoza Starring: Jason Momoa, Isabela Merced and Adria Arjona Certificate:

In this action thriller, we follow Ray, a devastated husband committed to his pursuit for justice. Hunting the people who are responsible for his wife’s death, Ray must balance staying true to his vow and protecting his daughter Rachel. Will those responsible pay for their crimes, or will Ray get lost in his vengeance? n

HELD

DVD

Release Date: 13th July Director: Travis Cluff and Chris Lofing Starring: Jill Awbrey, Travis Cluff, Bart Johnson, Rez Kempton and Zack Gold Certificate:

Emma and Henry’s marriage has lost its spark. In the hope of rekindling, they take a vacation to a remote, high-end rental. After suspecting a nightmarish intruder to have made it inside one night, they attempt to flee the house, only to be trapped inside by the automated security system.

Throughout the house an unknown ‘voice’ commands their every move, revealing intimate details about their marriage. The situation grows increasingly brutal but Emma and Henry must work together to uncover the truth.

Their marriage is put to the test and their lives are at stake, will they find a way out before it’s too late? n

arts&culture

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

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limited edition prints in a variety of styles and mediums, as well as providing the quality in-house framing and restoration service for which the gallery is already renowned.

Looking to the future, the couple are set to immerse themselves in the Longridge community and culture, and Nick is hoping to drive the business forward on both the art sales and framing sides.

“We will definitely be looking to grow the business and our customer base. One of the ways we can do this is by using social media to let people know about upcoming projects and artists that will be featured at Longridge Gallery. We get a great response already to our posts and we hope to improve on this further.”

As the next generation to take over the family-run Longridge Gallery, Nick Smith and fiancée Sophie Hart are looking forward to introducing new artists and working alongside other businesses within the community. Photography: Kirsten Platt

I

n their first month at Longridge Gallery Nick Smith and fiancée Sophie Hart have been warmly welcomed to the town by customers old and new as well as local high street businesses.

“It’s been great,” says an enthusiastic Nick, who is the next generation to join the family business owned by Alistair Sheret since 2000 and his wife Caroline.

“Customers and other businesses on Berry Lane have been hugely supportive so we are really looking forward to the months ahead. We have received a really warm welcome and we are delighted to be part of the Longridge community.”

Longridge Gallery has always exhibited work from the UK’s most collectible artists alongside local favourites and the very best up and coming young talent, all of which makes the gallery a focal point for the region’s art lovers.

Nick and Sophie are hoping to keep the essence of the gallery the same, while introducing new artists and innovative projects. Currently artist Hamish Herd is featuring at the gallery. South African born, Herd is now based in Yorkshire, where he shares a creative studio with his wife. He produces beautifully soft sweeping landscapes inspired by his lifelong passion

for painting.

“We have previously featured Hamish here at the gallery and we are delighted to bring his work back. The response to his previous paintings was phenomenal. There was a lot of interest in them,” adds Nick, whose vision is to continue working with first class artists, displaying paintings and

WE HAVE RECEIVED A REALLY WARM WELCOME AND WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE PART OF THE LONGRIDGE COMMUNITY

Longridge Gallery has long been associated with community projects including Create Longridge, of which the gallery was a founder back in 2016. “We will definitely be looking to continue our support for local events and community projects,” adds Nick. “We will also be introducing new artists to the gallery, which is always exciting – and we are very much looking forward to the next chapter for Longridge Gallery.” n

Longridge Gallery 78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3WH 01772 782006 info@longridgegallery.co.uk longridgegallery.co.uk /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery @longridgegall

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Photography: Courtesy of Kidz Bop

IN THE SPOTLIGHT T A member of Kidz Bop, who have sold more than 21 million albums, Mia McLoughlin has travelled the world with her work singing, filming musical videos and appearing on stage in the West End

een star of the stage and screen Mia McLoughlin, who has worked in the West End and sung on a Robbie Williams album, is all set for a new chapter in her life.

Mia, 16, who is from Whalley, attended Whalley Primary School before being awarded a scholarship at the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London five years ago.

Within two days of starting at the theatre school, Mia landed her first job at the tender age of 12 playing Cosette in Les Miserables, one of Cameron Mackintosh’s longest running musicals of all time.

Jo McLoughlin, Mia’s mum, recalls: “Mia auditioned in the presence of Cameron Mackintosh and got the role.

MIA FLEW OUT WITH THE FULL CAST OF LES MISERABLES, TO DUBAI TO PERFORM THE FIRST EVER WEST END SHOW IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES “She started rehearsals in London then flew out with amazing chaperones, a tutor and the full cast of Les Miserables, to Dubai to perform the first ever West End show in the United Arab Emirates. It was a six-week residency to celebrate the opening of the Dubai Opera House.”

Following her performances in Les Miserable, Mia went on to play Amanda Thripp in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda the Musical for over a year in Covent Garden.

“She spent a full year performing up to five times a week, in all she completed 148 performances,” explains Lee McLoughlin, Mia’s dad.

Mia and the Matilda cast appeared as special guests on Brtiain’s Got Talent finals show, in front of Simon Cowell and the other judges.

In 2019 Mia, who as a youngster attended Little Voices in Whalley and Dance Works in Clitheroe, auditioned and was selected

for Kidz Bop – a worldwide music brand that produces family-friendly cover versions of pop songs.

Kidz Bop have sold more than 21 million albums and generated more than 4.5 billion streams worldwide.

Since being selected Mia has been lucky enough to travel the world with Kidz Bop – making music videos in Miami, New York and Germany.

In 2019 while still at the Sylvia Young Theatre School and performing with Kidz Bop, Mia got the opportunity to audition to sing with Robbie Williams. “Many others auditioned but Mia got the chance to be a part of it and is the credited featured artist on Robbie Williams’ Cocos Christmas Lullaby track on The Christmas Present Album.”

Last year Kidz Bop were planning a world tour including two nights at the London Palladium, but as Jo recalls: “Everything was cancelled due to the pandemic.”

However, Mia and members of Kidz Bop were asked to take part in a five-part Kids Sky documentary which covered the cancellation of their tour, the ups and downs and what goes on behind the scenes.

MIA ALSO TOOK PART IN THIS YEAR’S OPENING OF THE TELEVISED CHILDREN IN NEED APPEAL AT THE BBC STUDIOS They then performed their full show to a virtual audience live.

Having performed with Kidz Bop at the BAFTA Children’s Awards at the Roundhouse Camden, Mia also took part in this year’s opening of the televised Children In Need appeal at the BBC studios in London.

Now aged 16, Mia is moving on to the next chapter of her life when she will continue her training at Performers College in Essex for three years while still auditioning for stage roles. n

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GOOD READ Lauren Molyneux curls up with a good book to review the latest best seller

Daisy Chain Julia Vaughan Todd Prospero is in mourning. After returning home from his tour to find his five-year-old daughter, Daisy, murdered in the woods by their house, it doesn’t take long for his whole world to fall apart. His beautiful wife is next, losing her life to a desperate act of suicide in their family home three months later, when the police have come up with no leads.

Ten years on, they’re still no closer to catching the killer. That is until Detective Chief Inspector Kath Fortune is given the budget to build her own team to tackle the mountain of cold case files that have been piling up.

Armed with years of experience, a genius computer whizz working on his first case, and a psychic who has proven to reveal case-making details in the past, Kath is determined to find the boy (now man) who killed Daisy all those years ago.

And when a woman turns up on Todd’s lawn with a stomach full of pills and whiskey, and a canvas bag filled with hand-written letters addressed to him, it isn’t long before the pieces of the puzzle begin to realign themselves.

When encouraged to remember all he can about Daisy, Todd brings a worrying new detail to light and the mysterious figure of Daisy’s apparently imaginary friend, cousin Jack, sees things shift into something more sinister than anyone could have imagined.

With an intriguing plot line which sees two narratives played out simultaneously – one sharing with us what happened back in 2009 in the woods near Daisy’s home, and one documenting the detectives’ attempts to catch the killer - the question becomes not of who killed Daisy, but of where he is now, and how the police might track him down.

For fans of crime fiction, Daisy Chain delivers an interesting plot which navigates grief and suicide, combining themes of childhood trauma with explorations into cult mentalities. Although the story’s premise is refreshing in terms of the genre, in my opinion the characters remain underdeveloped, which ultimately affects our engagement with the text.n

www.PAD-4-SALE.co.uk

www.PAD-2-LET.co.uk

Far Newfield Edge Farm, Edge Lane, Barnoldswick, BB18 5SD This is a unique opportunity to purchase a substantial, beautifully presented, six bedroomed family home. Within the grounds of the farmhouse is also a two bedroomed detached cottage, which is finished to a high standard. The property offers multi-generational living accommodation or the potential for income generation through holiday lettings.

The Farmhouse dates back to 1750 and has many unique features such as beamed and vaulted ceilings, exposed stonework and an original inglenook fireplace. This property has to be inspected to fully appreciate what it has to offer. Set within extensive private gardens with ornate gravelled paths, a pond and outbuildings, totalling approximately three acres of land.

At the rear of the property is a covered outdoor kitchen dining area, with a log burning stove, there is also a large insulated outbuilding with

£1,100,000

power, water and a decking area, which could be developed into an ideal home office or holiday pod. There is also a summer house/pavilion at the bottom of the garden. A large fully equipped double garage and workshop with electric doors, power, LED lighting and water. The garage also houses the water filtration unit. There is parking to the front and side of the property for numerous vehicles. The property also benefits from two forms of renewable energy: a 5kw wind turbine and 4kw of photovoltaic cells.

Ideally located in a secluded setting with breath taking panoramic longdistance views towards The Yorkshire Three Peaks and Malham Cove, yet the property is just two miles away from the bustling old mill town of Barnoldswick. The M65 motorway network is just several miles away allowing for excellent commuting to Manchester and beyond. Skipton Train Station is also just a short drive away, offering direct trains to Leeds and London’s Kings Cross Station.

Find your dream PAD.....

T. 01282 851000 E: info@pad-4-sale.co.uk

16 Church Street, Barnoldswick, BB18 5UT

The glorious view from Jeffrey Hill, just 4 miles from our Alston Grange development

Welcome to your best life...

Your dream home in the Ribble Valley could be more affordable than you imagined when you part buy, part rent through Shared Ownership.

Oak Leigh Gardens, Clitheroe | Alston Grange, Longridge and coming soon to Coupe Green, Hoghton

0300 330 5533

hello@mytogetherhome.co.uk

mytogetherhome.co.uk

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LUXURY NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT The first phase of this new residential development is now available for reservation

T

he launch of the first phase of Hurstwood Homes’ latest luxury residential development, Newchurch Meadows in Rossendale, has got off to a fantastic start with 70 per cent of the homes being reserved off plan on the first day.

Situated in the popular town of Rawtenstall, Newchurch Meadows is an exceptional development of 30 three, four and five-bedroom detached, semi detached and mews homes nestled in the scenic Rossendale Valley and starting from £375,000.

Nine of the houses are available exclusively on a part buy, part rent basis meaning that there are several options for people at various stages on the property ladder – from first homes to generously proportioned family homes.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Newchurch Meadows comprises eight different house types all of which have a secure, private garden and off-road parking.

Using traditional local materials including

stone and slate externally, inside the houses benefit from state-of-the-art Siematic kitchens

by Stuart Frazer, high quality bathrooms and en-suites from Hansgrohe and Duravit as well as beautiful log burners*. Thoughtfully designed and carefully considered layouts provide sociable and friendly living areas downstairs.

THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED AND CAREFULLY CONSIDERED LAYOUTS PROVIDE SOCIABLE AND FRIENDLY LIVING AREAS DOWNSTAIRS Sam Ashworth, Project Director at Hurstwood, comments: “We have had a very high level of interest in this new development to date, which is testament to the exceptional design and unique

offering of the homes.

“Rossendale has seen a huge surge in popularity, which is due not only to the eclectic offering of the bustling town but also because of its easy access to Manchester city centre as well as the direct motorway links to Bury, Bradford and Leeds whilst still allowing residents to enjoy a home life in the country.”

Sam continues: “We are very busy on site with construction well under way and will be launching the show home later this year so people can see first-hand the exceptional quality and superior finishes for themselves.

The first homes are due to be ready for occupation by the end of the year and we look forward to handing over the first set of keys!” n *Bilberry spec differs

For further information and to find out how you can reserve your new home now please contact Fine & Country on 01706 531315, or visit: newchurchmeadows.co.uk

WELCOME

TO THE TEAM Having enjoyed a record year, this thriving estate agency has strengthened the team at their Ribble Valley office welcoming experienced property agent Rob Lloyd.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

S

enior property agent Rob Lloyd is thrilled to be joining Armitstead Barnett, an agency renowned for its top-end rural and village properties, equestrian and agricultural sales along with land and development opportunities.

Born and educated in the Ribble Valley, Rob has a comprehensive understanding of the locality, having worked in the industry for 14 years handling sales in the Ribble Valley.

Hannah Towers, Agency Partner of Armitstead Barnett, says: “We are delighted to bring Rob into our Ribble Valley team as he brings a wealth of local knowledge and relevant property experience to our branch and will be invaluable as the office grows.”

Rob’s role within the business will be to value properties and nurture them to completion: “I would like to think I am bringing fresh ideas to the business and have a real passion for the area,” says Rob, who will be working alongside Simon Wells, who specialises in the agricultural side of the business. “We make a great team,” adds Rob.

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BRING ROB INTO OUR RIBBLE VALLEY TEAM AS HE BRINGS A WEALTH OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND RELEVANT PROPERTY EXPERIENCE TO OUR BRANCH Having grown year on year, the Ribble Valley branch of Armitstead Barnett has experienced a huge rise in enquiries and sales, as Hannah explains: “We are having a record number of enquiries from enthusiastic buyers wanting to know what is coming onto the market. There is a high demand for rural and high-end properties and many are making over the asking price.”

Renowned for its exceptional, measured sales techniques and first-class property

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photography, Armitstead Barnett has forged a fantastic reputation within the Ribble Valley: “We are able to adjust our sales process to try and make sure that we are meeting aims and objectives during a sale.

It is important to expose the property to all interested buyers in order to get the best possible price for our clients,” says Hannah, who adds that Armitstead Barnett also specialises in selling properties that may have challenges such as rights of access and structural issues, as well as dealing with development sites, new builds and conversions. They have also run successful private sale campaigns using a combination of techniques.

THERE IS A HIGH DEMAND FOR RURAL AND HIGH-END PROPERTIES AND MANY ARE MAKING OVER THE ASKING PRICE Armitstead Barnett has offices in Garstang, Burscough and Kendal and prides itself on having local knowledge whilst having a regional presence. Providing a five-star service, the agency is well-known for its strong property marketing campaigns, as Hannah explains: “It is clear that our clients appreciate the breadth of services that Armitstead Barnett is able to provide, working across a number of different platforms to ensure we offer a bespoke and tailored service to each and every client.

“With Rob joining our Ribble Valley office in Clitheroe now we not only have a strong rural surveying presence in the location but a locally-based property agent.” n

Armitstead Barnett 5 Church Street, Clitheroe BB7 2DD abarnett.co.uk Ribble Valley 01200 411155 North Lancashire 01995 603180 Cumbria 01539 751993 South Lancashire 01704 895995

WHAT THE CLIENTS SAY… “Having moved house three times in the last four years and sold several more over the last decade, using the services of various estate agents, I feel somewhat qualified to comment on my experience in dealing with Armitstead Barnett in Clitheroe.

In short, it was excellent. The original meeting to discuss valuation, presentation and marketing strategy was professional and authentic, all done in a friendly and personable manner. The service from the team at Clitheroe continued in the same vein. Our lead negotiator made certain her colleagues were kept fully informed which provided comfort to me as a seller. Our negotiator really tuned into us with her knowledge and professional approach and most importantly, her personality. We jointly achieved the desired result in selling the property in short order at the target price. Top quality in every respect.”

“The difference between the cheaper agent alternatives and the professional service I received from Armistead Barnett was staggering. Their professionalism was amazing! The marketing they produced for our property showed it in its very best light, the aerial views and the interior shots were beautiful. An offer was quickly negotiated and unlike other agents I have experienced, Armitstead Barnett continued to offer regular sales progression and helped to resolve problems quickly and efficiently. They maintained this service holding a long chain together right to completion, making what could have been a very difficult time a lot easier. I would not hesitate to recommend the team at Clitheroe and would definitely use them in the future.”

Goosnargh Asking Price £725,000

This charming property is set just outside the village of Goosnargh in a lovely rural location.

Waddington

Located in the well-regarded village of Waddington, this property presents a fantastic opportunity to put your own stamp on it.

Offering flexible accommodation, it is ideal for those looking to enjoy multi-generational living, or potentially provide an income. Set in well-presented gardens, it includes a field across the road, extending to 1.9 acres (0.79ha) should the purchaser have agricultural or equestrian interests.

With five bedrooms and three bathrooms, it makes the ideal family home and includes equestrian facilities and two acres of land with stables. There is also a one-bedroom internal annex.

Waddington ORIO £1,100.000

A substantial property offering exceptional levels of privacy, yet within a short distance of Waddington.

Longridge

A superb, three bedroom family home convenient for Longridge and access to motorway junctions.

This spacious four-bedroom house enjoys three-four large reception rooms and includes a separate three-bedroom annex, providing space for extended family living, or holiday-let business. Formal gardens and agricultural land total 7.5 acres (3ha) or thereabouts represents a fantastic opportunity overlooking the Ribble Valley.

This attractive, semi-detached stone barn conversion has light and airy reception space and sits in spacious gardens with garaging.

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YOUR HOME-OWNING JOURNEY

Home Reach, enabling buyers to step onto the property ladder

H

Ultimately flexible, buyers can purchase up to 75 per cent share and heylo will become your landlord granting you a 125-year lease, meaning you will live in your home as if you’ve bought it outright.

You can buy more of your home in the future and stop paying rent on that part.

Locally, Home Reach is here: • Tootle Green, Longridge. Three-bed homes for 50 per cent ßshares from £104,498.

• Alston Grange, Longridge. Three-bed homes for 50 per cent shares from £119,998.

• Whittingham Park, Whittingham. Two-bed homes for 25 per cent shares from £24,988.

• Holbeck Park, Burnley. Two, three and four-bed homes for 50 per cent shares from £92,498.

• The Avenues, Broughton. Two-bed homes for 50 per cent shares from £105,000.

• Ash View, Bowgreave, Garstang. Three-bed homes for 50 per cent shares £107,498. n

ome Reach, with more than 150 sites across the UK, is a totally different approach to home buying.You buy a share of your newly-built home and pay a monthly rent on the part you don’t buy at a rate of 2.75 per cent.

With Home Reach your budget will decide on the size of the share you buy, rather than the actual size of your home allowing you to under STYLISH LYTHAM APARTMENT buy a bigger share of a lower priced home or a smaller share of a larger, more expensive home.

For more information: 0203 744 0415 homereach.org.uk

LOVE LYTHAM? A luxury fully renovated 2 bedroom apartment located in the heart of Lytham and close to the bars, cafes, restaurants and golf courses.

AVAILABLE FOR SHORT TERM BREAKS AND STAYCATIONS. churchviewapartmentlytham.com | Find us on

under Stylish Lytham Apartment

Get on the property ladder with Home Reach With Home Reach you buy a share of a newly built home and pay a low monthly rent on the part you don’t buy. Your budget decides the size of your share, rather than the size of your home.

How it works Buying a 50% share of a £200,000 home would look like this:*

Part Buy:

Choose the share you can afford. Shares up to 75% available

Part Rent:

Pay a monthly rent on the unsold share

Deposit:

Reserve with a deposit from 5% of your share

A 50% share would be

£100,000

You will require a deposit for your share (not the whole home) from 5%

£5,000

You will require a mortgage for the remaining share amount

£95,000

You will pay a monthly rent on the share you don't buy

£230/pm

(you can initially purchase up to 75%)

Why choose Home Reach?

Affordable

Choice

You only require a deposit for your share, not 100% of the property

A wide range of houses and apartments available across the country

Freedom

Staircasing

Freedom to decorate and improve your home

Increase your level of ownership at any time

Flexibility

Pets

Flexibility to sell and move at any time

We are happy for you to have pets in your home**

Security

Investment

Provides the security of home ownership

You can benefit from any increase in property prices

To find out more about Home Reach and discover the new homes available in your area

visit: homereach.org.uk call: 020 3744 0415 *Starting shares vary across sites and plots. Initial shares up to 75% available. Eligibility criteria applies. Rent on the unsold share is charged at 2.75% and increases annually by RPI + 0.5%. Rent excludes monthly lease management fee and building insurance, along with any estate fees or services charges which may be applicable. **You may need the permission of the managing agent or developer

Photography: Kirsten Platt

SPECIALIST PROJECTS With a team of specialists, RHS Developments takes a holistic approach to deliver wide-ranging construction projects partly attributed to the project management skills of the team, which are critical for delivering projects on time and within budget.

Anyone who has dealt with a building development or refurbishment will fully appreciate the complexities of finding the right experts and managing all the different elements.

Managing a complete development in-house is rather unique, but it gives the client the ability to have total control right from the start. Each assignment is managed by a dedicated Project Manager along with experts ranging from interior designers to utility consultants or even tree surgeons.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

I

magine taking a simple construction idea or drawing and turning it into reality.

That’s what RHS Developments do.

Your idea could be your dream home, a major refurbishment project or a complete refitting of a pub or restaurant.

RHS Developments have the creativity and in-house expertise to deliver your project from inception right through to handing you the keys of a completed development.

This involves utilising the specialist skills of the RHS Developments team, producing architect’s drawings and commissioning surveys, sorting out all of your utilities and helping you select and install your new furniture.

Established in 2015 by Scott Stephenson, the business has thrived in recent years with inspiring projects throughout the Ribble Valley. With a background in construction and expertise in listed buildings and conservation sites, Scott is able to deliver a totally holistic service to his clients.

In 2019 Elliott Hodgkinson joined Scott as his business partner following 13 years at Laing O’Rourke. His experience with new builds, residentials tower blocks, refurbishments of Grade II* listed buildings and football stadiums added another dimension to the expanding business.

The success of RHS Developments can be

property

Scott and Elliott thrive on delivering multi-faceted developments: “We love large complex projects as that is where our expertise lies. Plans and timescales are agreed right from the start so that everyone is aware of what they are working towards.

We work very closely with clients, advising them throughout the whole process and always being on hand to answer questions or resolve any issues.”

RHS Developments have delivered many sizeable projects in prestigious private homes throughout Lancashire. With Scott and Elliott’s knowledge of historic buildings, they understand the complexities and challenges faced with these types of projects and are therefore able to provide a team of specialists who can see the development through successfully.

One recent commercial project included the tremendous Coach & Horses in Bolton-by-Bowland – a major refurbishment project which included revamping seven guest bedrooms with en-suites, a stunning new restaurant, new bar areas plus a new kitchen. This involved everything from developing design concepts through to working with furniture and lighting suppliers.

The team also completed the refurbishment of the fabulous Freemasons at Wiswell, delivering a bespoke four-bedroom renovation, plus a rear extension to enable guests to sit with the chef and watch their meals being prepared, something which has proved incredibly successful for the Freemasons.

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hard work and commitment.

The team contains experts in a number of keys areas such as architects, interior designers, utility consultants, structural engineers, landscaping, mechanical and electrical plus bespoke furniture specialists, who have delivered projects for many years.

The combination of Covid and Brexit has certainly contributed to the challenges faced by the construction industry over the past year, resulting in a shortage of materials and a major hike in prices. RHS have used these challenges as an opportunity to streamline processes and systems and deliver a more enhanced service to clients.

WE WORK VERY CLOSELY WITH CLIENTS, ADVISING THEM THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE PROCESS AND ALWAYS BEING ON HAND TO ANSWER QUESTIONS OR RESOLVE ANY ISSUES

The ethos of RHS Developments is to invest in their team to enable them to deliver exceptional customer service to their clients. The established team is extremely loyal and committed, many of who have been with the company right from the start while others have joined during recent years to add to the ever-increasing skillset. The culture is one of work-life balance where staff are taken care of and rewarded for their

So, if you’re looking at a development project upwards of £100,000 the team at RHS Developments is absolutely perfect for you. They will manage the whole process leaving you with a completed development of which you’ll be incredibly proud. n

RHS Developments Green House Barn, Balderstone BB2 7LL 07949 191593

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property and the North West with 12.8 per cent growth. House prices continue to increase as housing market demand outweighs supply, putting upward pressure on prices. In April, 32 per cent of properties sold for more than the original asking price.

Jason continues saying, Rightmove reported that housing market demand was 52 per cent higher in April 2021 compared to April 2019. Despite increased demand, stock is still low, with Zoopla reporting a 21 per cent decline in the year to mid-May compared to the 2020 average.

“The supply shortage is particularly noticeable for family homes with three or more bedrooms. Available stock for sale in April 2021 was down by an average of 50 per cent, compared to the same period in 2019. In contrast, properties with two bedrooms or fewer have availability down by 24 per cent,” he comments.

The overall outlook for the property

England and Northern Ireland reduce at the end of June and come to an end in September.

So, what does the future hold for the market? Jason says that according to Zoopla, the high level of housing market demand in 2021 has led to £149bn of homes sold subject to contract in the first 15 weeks of the year. With restrictions easing and foreign summer holidays likely to be off the cards, housing market demand is likely to remain high over the summer.

Zoopla estimate total sales completions this year will be 1.52 million, making 2021

WITH RESTRICTIONS EASING AND FOREIGN SUMMER HOLIDAYS LIKELY TO BE OFF THE CARDS, HOUSING MARKET DEMAND IS LIKELY TO REMAIN HIGH

HOUSING MARKET

BOOM CONTINUES The housing market continues to grow with many properties selling for more than the original asking price

W

ith demand skyrocketing and limited supply, the housing market boom continues to surge forward as we head into the warmer seasons. This is according to Jason Preston of Fine & Country Ribble Valley, who adds that the imbalance of supply and demand continues to push prices up with over a third of homes now selling for more than the original asking price.

He adds that the Nationwide House Price Index reported further acceleration in annual house price growth in May 2021 to 10.9 per cent, the highest level recorded since August 2014. Monthly house prices rose by 1.8 per cent in May, following a 2.3 per cent rise in April. According to the ONS House Price Index, Yorkshire and the Humber has seen the largest annual increase in prices, at 14 per cent. This is followed by the North East at 13.7 per cent,

market remains positive. Housing market momentum has been maintained following the original stamp duty deadline in March 2021, which caused a huge spike in transactions. According to HMRC, an estimated 117,860 transactions completed in April 2021, 21 per cent higher than the April 2014 to 2019 average.

THE SUPPLY SHORTAGE IS PARTICULARLY NOTICEABLE FOR FAMILY HOMES WITH THREE OR MORE BEDROOMS Mortgage approvals also remain high, with 86,921 approved in April 2021, 30 per cent higher than April 2014 to 2019, and an astonishing 439 per cent higher than last year. A recent survey by Nationwide found that the stamp duty extension in England and Northern Ireland was not the key factor in maintaining housing market demand – 68 per cent of homeowners either moving home or considering moving said this would have been the case even if the stamp duty holiday wasn’t extended. This stands the housing market in good stead for when savings from the stamp duty holiday in

one of the busiest sales markets since the Global Financial Crisis, and one of the top ten most active years since 1959.

According to the RICS residential survey, agents remain positive when reporting on house prices, with three-month price expectations showing a +51 per cent net balance. Agents foresee upwards pressures on prices remaining firm over the next 12 months, with the latest net balance standing at +68 per cent. n

Fine & Country Ribble Valley 39 King Street Whalley BB7 9SP 01254 828922 fineandcountry.com

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine & Countr y Head Office 121 Park Lane , Mayfair, London W1K 7AG

FELLSIDE FARM, GRINDLETON

NEW PRICE - £1,350,000

This exceptional detached stone built farmhouse with additional extension lies in a stunning elevated position with magnificent 180 degree views over the RibbleValley countryside and will appeal to the 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 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 accommodation includes reception hallway, sitting room, dining room, farmhouse kitchen and study/sitting room to the ground floor and master bedroom suite with en-suite shower room and dressing room, three further bedrooms, family bathroom and a second lounge to the first floor, whilst the adjoining annexe includes a shower room, sauna, games room and double garage. EPC Rating D

CAPPERS FARM, NEWCHURCH-IN-PENDLE, BB12 9LR

£1,150,000

Situated in a rural yet convenient location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Cappers Farm is a stunning family home which has been sympathetically upgraded and meticulously maintained by the current owners. This detached property will appeal to those seeking generous family accommodation, blending beautiful period features together with contemporary fixtures and fittings.The property has five/six bedrooms, snug, dining/ sitting room, family lounge, breakfast kitchen, utility room together with a leisure complex featuring a gym, indoor swimming pool and relaxation room. £1,100,000 HUBBERSTY BALDERSTONE Externally FOLD there FARM, are attractive formal gardens including an orchard, a substantial stone-built stable block with three large stalls, separate tack room, Of numerous interest to bothstorage the agricultural andand equine purchaser; aThere delightfully modern two-storey detached farmhouse adjoiningwith barn, garaging andbedroom approximately 31 acres of adjoining gardens agricultural land. rooms workshop. is located a detached guestwith annexe en-suite and a fabulous first floorandentertaining 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 suitepermission with a mahogany corner bar above an integral garage.

There additional double a separate planning for its conversion to provide a five bedroom dwellingsingle with a gross internal floorare areatwo in excess of 4,000 square feet.garages Hubberstytogether Fold Farm iswith perfectly positionedsubstantial in a quiet ruralbuilding location on thethat edge of the formally popular Ribble Valley village of Balderstone, approximately 1.5 miles from theextremely A59, 5.5 milesversatile from the centre Blackburn, miles from the centre of Preston where there are aenjoys wide was a helicopter hanger/storage unit, which remains and of suitable foranda 7.5 variety of alternative uses.The property range services and including rail17 services Manchester.

The M6 M65 andby theseparate wider motorway network are all within easy reach of the property. EPC Rating D theof benefit ofamenities approximately acrestoof land which is and available negotiation.

www.fineandcountry.com Scan me with your smart phone to view the listed properties online.

RIBBLE VALLEY HODDER VALLEY EAST LANCASHIRE

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine & Countr y Head Office 121 Park Lane , Mayfair, London W1K 7AG

THE RECTORY, RISING BRIDGE, BB5 2SB

£550,000

A rare opportunity to acquire a truly individual and sympathetic conversion from a former church to stunning contemporary four-bedroom NEW PRICE - £1,350,000 FELLSIDE FARM, GRINDLETON residence.

The Rectory retains much of its original architecture and heritage and has been adapted to create substantial living accommodation This exceptional detached stone built farmhouse with additional extension lies in a stunning elevated position with magnificent 180 degree views over the RibbleValley countryside and will appeal to the extending to 3,319 sq ft over two floors which viewing appreciate its quirky nature.

Internally this beautiful has Fellside extensive living equestrian enthusiast as the property includes approximately 9 acresrequire of adjoining land andto a large stable and garage block with stabling for three horses and garagingbuilding for six vehicles.

Farm has been space four fitments reception rooms - the lounge being height of the building by the bedroom and finished withwith high quality and fixtures together with a wealth/ofnave solid ash joinerythe andfull although contemporary in characteroverlooked it has retained most of itsmaster original beams and trusses.

Theframed internal by beautiful, stained glass windows at room, either end.

Thefarmhouse property hasand a large private terrace tomaster the rear andsuite ample parking to the with room, accommodation includes reception hallway, sitting dining room, kitchen study/sitting roomoutdoor to the ground floor and bedroom with en-suite shower roomfront and dressing three further bedrooms, family bathroom and a second lounge to the first whilst the adjoining includes abusiness shower room, sauna, games roomisand double garage.

Rating D electric gates. Superbly positioned for commuting to floor, Manchester or Eastannexe Lancashire centres, viewing essential.

EPCEPC -D

BROWFOOT, HOLDEN, BB7 4PF

OFFERS OVER £900,000

£1,100,000 HUBBERSTY FOLD FARM, BALDERSTONE UNEXPECTEDLY RE-OFFERED Browfoot is a superb, five bedroomed detached family home, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Of of interest to both theofagricultural andThe equine purchaser; a delightfully located modern detached farmhouse withof adjoining barn,on garaging and approximately 31 acres of adjoining gardens agricultural land. the Trough Bowland. house stands in a semi-rural location in the hamlet Holden, the outskirts of Bolton-by-Bowland nearand Clitheroe.

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 This spacious and well presented house offers flexible family accommodation and occupies a private and attractive setting with mature gardens and 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 delightful A superb location1.5for commuting within Lancashire Yorkshire, market thethere doorstep. thegrounds edge of thewith popular RibbleValleyrural villageviews. of Balderstone, approximately miles from the A59,to 5.5 miles from the centre ofor Blackburn, and 7.5and mileswith fromathe centre oftown Prestonon where are a wide Early inspection is advised.

- E 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 includingEPC rail services

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

CAPPERS FARM, NEWCHURCH-IN-PENDLE, BB12 9LR

£1,150,000

Located in a rural yet convenient location, Cappers Farm is a superb family home which has been sympathetically upgraded NEW and meticulously PRICE - £1,350,000 £525,000 FELLSIDE DEO FAVENTE, FARM, GRINDLETON MERECLOUGH maintained by the current owners.

This property will appeal to those seeking generous family accommodation blending beautiful period features ThisAexceptional lovely barn detached conversion stone which built is easily farmhouse maintained with additional and 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 overinthe Cliviger, Ribble with Valley easy countryside access to the andmotorway will appealnetworks to the for together with contemporary fixtures and fittings.

The property has five bedrooms, snug, dining room, sitting room breakfast kitchen, utility room, 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 leisure complex pool.

Externally there areafeatures attractive aentrance substantial stable block sevenlounge stables and separate room.

There finished accommodation with high quality ofand immense fitments character and fixtures with together many quality with wealth of throughout solidformal ash joinery andgardens, comprises; and although contemporary porch, hallway, in character sitting room, itwith hasL-shaped retained most ofand its dining original room, beams kitchen, andtack trusses. utility, master The internal bedroom with enis asuite separate two-storey annexe building with suite and two double garages and a and separate building that was formally helicopter accommodation sitting area, includes dressing reception area and hallway, bathroom, sitting three room, further diningentertainment bedrooms room, farmhouse (two with kitchen en-suites), and study/sitting box room/study roomand to the family ground bathroom. floor Demaster Faventebedroom lies in gently suite sloping with en-suite gardens shower whichainclude room and a large dressing sun patio room, and a three lawned further area bedrooms, bordered family byhas open bathroom farmland, andinaaddition second17 lounge to aacres detached to the garage. floor, EPC whilst Rating the C adjoining annexe includes a shower room, sauna, hanger.

The property approximately of first land which is available by separate negotiation.

EPCgames - D room and double garage. EPC Rating D

LOWER BLACKWOOD FARM, FENCE, BB12 9QA

OFFERS IRO £800,000

Located in theFOLD village of Fence and tucked away in a quiet yet convenient location, Lower Blackwood Farm is a beautiful family home. The property has been £1,100,000 £499,950 HUBBERSTY FAR HILLOCK FARM, FARM, BLACKSNAPE BALDERSTONE extensively underbuilt the current ownership inspection will not disappoint. accommodation to approximately sqliving ft, gardens comprising four Of An interest attractive to upgraded both attached the agricultural stone and farmhouse equine purchaser; dating back a delightfully to and the 18th located century, modern situated detached in an idyllic farmhouse ruralThe location with adjoining in the heart barn, ofgaraging theextends West and Pennine approximately Moors, providing 31 acres3104 country of adjoining but with andeasy agricultural access toland. towns reception rooms, entrance hall, open dining master bedroom with suite and three further double bedrooms, one suite, The and property amenities. comprises Ideallarge foraequestrian recently renovated use, Farlarge Hillock and extended Farmplan includes six bedroom land kitchen, extending farmhouse to and approximately detached garage 4 acres, block aen large set yard in an area acrebalcony, and of formal a substantial gardens detached together stable withblock a detached with three stone loose builtwith boxes barnen benefitting and tack room, from in andaddition separate bathroom, downstairs utility, andcomprises; boot Externally, large gardens, large stone built double garage, ample parking, atwo private planning permission to a family goodforsized its conversion garden, whilst to provide the internal alavatory, fiveaccommodation bedroom dwelling with aroom. gross entrance internal hall,floor cloakroom, area inprivate excess utility, lounge, of 4,000 dining square room, feet. dining Hubbersty kitchen, Fold rearFarm porch/pantry, is perfectly four positioned bedrooms inand aand quiet rural bathrooms. location on The lane, together approximately acre.

Ideally for and commuting, providing commuting throughout Lancashire andlocal Manchester.

Allarea's the village the property edge of the enjoys popular superb Ribble panoramic Valleyone village views ofofBalderstone, the Westpositioned Pennine approximately Moors 1.5 miles offersfrom plenty the ofA59, opportunity 5.5excellent milesfor from quiet theenjoyment centre of Blackburn, such as walking, and East 7.5 cycling, miles and from sampling the centre ofproduce Prestoninwhere the there public are ahouses, wide range restaurants of services and and cafes. amenities including Cityrail Centre services is also to Manchester. within reach, M6 taking and M65 justpost 35 and minutes the wider from motorway nearby Entwistle network Station areaallprimary on within the Blackburn-Bolton-Manchester easy reachare of the EPCline.

Rating EPCDRating E distance. amenities including a Manchester Michelin-starred restaurant and easy pub,The village store, office, library, churches, and school all property. within comfortable walking EPC - D

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

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property

YOUR SUMMER HOME Connecting your home to the outdoors promotes well-being, rest and relaxation and creates additional indoor/outdoor living spaces to enjoy with your friends and family

S

ummer 2021 for most, is possibly not how anyone would have predicted last year. We have all spent an unprecedented amount of time in our homes throughout the Covid lockdowns, and many of us have been eager to leave behind our home office and get back to the office work environment.

For most of us holidays this year will mean a ‘staycation’ and if you do get away you may only have one holiday. This means that our home has yet again had to evolve into becoming our destination spot, and our summer sanctuary.

One of our most popular requests when re-designing a property is to ‘bring the

outdoors in’, however summer is the time when everyone wants to experience the great outdoors, making the most of the weather and utilise their gardens to instead ‘bring the indoors out’.

Your garden is literally an extension of the internal space of your home where you can create fully functioning spaces to entertain, relax and spend quality time with your family and friends.

OUR HOME HAS YET AGAIN HAD TO EVOLVE INTO BECOMING OUR DESTINATION SPOT, AND OUR SUMMER SANCTUARY When you extend the limits of your project to include your full garden, land or ownership you can create a home that works for you, your extended family members and even your business.You can evolve your home into a one-stop-shop for everyday living, family gatherings, health and well-being and good old-fashioned R&R.

You may wish to add more wow-factor to your home, add a leisure wing, create a family annexe, or you may even want to create a second home or holiday lodge for your family to retreat to.

Summer is the time when you can evaluate if your home works for you, or if there are areas which require improvement. If you want to improve your property, add additional space or even create a holiday home contact a member of our team for a free consultation to discuss your project. n

Zara Moon Architects We Transform Sites, Buildings & Lives Unit 37, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01200 403840 info@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Come and explore all that Oakhill has to offer

“Children are alert, happy and interested in their environment.”

- Quotation from our latest ISI Report

Book a tour with us at a time that suits you and your family.

For more information or to book a tour, please contact the school registrar Suzanne Spencer on 01254 823546 or email spencer.s@oakhillschool.co.uk.

| oakhillschool.co.uk | 01254 823546 | Wiswell Lane, Whalley, Lancashire, BB7 9AF

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