Live Ribble Valley Issue 132 (April 2022)

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 132

SPRINGTIME BLOOMS GARDENING PROJECTS GREATEST DAYS FILM CREW IN CLITHEROE BOXING CLEVER TEEN CHAMP ALANA IN THE PICTURE CELESTIAL SKIES

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CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

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12 GREATEST DAYS A film crew and star cast, including actress Aisling Bea, began shooting Greatest Days in Clitheroe. The feel-good film will feature a big song and dance number at Clitheroe Castle, followed by shoots in London and Athens.

46 MEET THE DESIGNERS Garden designer Alli Croft and awardwinning plant expert John Foley of Holden Clough explain how they have created some of the most prestigious gardens in the region.

90 CELESTIAL BEAUTY From the winter constellation of Orion to the magical sight of a meteor shower, the skies above Bowland are filled with wonder and they look amazing when captured on camera.

114

MARRY ME NOW It’s come to light that some venues have last minute availability to host weddings in 2022. Find out which stunning Ribble Valley locations are offering this valuable opportunity.

138

ARTISAN ADVENTURES From ice-cream makers to crafters of some of the finest cheeses, beers and gins in the world, let Katie Wilson take you on an unrivalled food tour of Bowland & Bay.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 62 FASHION 80 HEALTH & BEAUTY 90 LIFESTYLE 122 EDUCATION 126 BUSINESS 131 MOTORS 138 FOOD & DRINK

90

152 ARTS & CULTURE 157 PROPERTY

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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: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Photography: Phil Garlington, Allen Markey, Kirsten Platt and Andy Tighe Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Anna Souroullas, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE Office 2 The Old Bakery, Green Street, Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465 LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston.

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Live

Magazines Editor I love this time of year when my utility room is filled with vegetable seedlings that are almost ready to be planted out. At the moment, they are taken outside on sunny days and brought in when the evening gets chilly. All are grown from seeds that have been either bought or generously gifted. So, in a couple of months’ time I will have mizuna, oriental salad leaves and Jack ice lettuce along with courgettes, French beans, beetroot, spring onions and lots of herbs, as well as the obligatory sweet peas to make everything look pretty and decorative.

Our gardens come alive at this time of year, they take centre stage and in this month’s magazine we have lots of tips from experienced growers and gardeners based here in the Ribble Valley. We meet garden designers Alli Croft and John Foley, who work together to transform our outdoor living spaces. Their projects have ranged from delightful cottage gardens to a huge four-acre site which features a pond and beautiful woodland garden.

Staying on the home-grown theme, we talk to Katie Wilson, who takes groups of people on food tours, meeting the growers and producers of Lancashire and Cumbria. From artisan cheesemakers to microbreweries, she has sought out all the best people to develop an experience that reveals the richness of the food culture across the region.

Finally, we can’t ignore the fact that the film crew and all-star cast of Greatest Days – a global, feelgood movie in-the-making, descended on Clitheroe recently. They used various locations in the town, including the castle, where one of the film’s major song and dance scenes was shot. One of the film’s producers summed up the warm, Ribble Valley welcome they received, when she said: “We are loving shooting here and we can totally see why this is one of the happiest towns in England!”

I hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Live Ribble Valley.

Jan Woolley Editor

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 132

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 105

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 131

SPRINGTIME BLOOMS GARDENING PROJECTS

PASSION FOR FASHION SPRING INTO THE NEW SEASON CULINARY TRIUMPH! JAMES MARTIN, TOM KERRIDGE & MONICA GALETTI

FEELING THE LOVE MEET THE FAZELI FAMILY

CALIFORNIA GIRL ROVERS’ LATEST SIGNING

BECOMING WORLD CHAMPION LAURA MASSARO IS ALL IN

ROYAL COMMISSION ARTIST JAMIE HOLMAN

SPRING IS HERE EASTER, MOTHER’S DAY AND MORE

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

GREATEST DAYS FILM CREW IN CLITHEROE BOXING CLEVER TEEN CHAMP ALANA IN THE PICTURE CELESTIAL SKIES

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that they can be.

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To see more of this and other fabulous kitchens visit the case studies page on our website.

Three Stuart Frazer kitchens in a row moved house house they they inherited inherited aa stunning stunning When Ian and Joanne Louise moved bespoke bespoke traditional traditional kitchen kitchen but but after after having having two two Stuart Stuart Frazer Frazer kitchens, they couldn’t be without one in their new home kitchens, they couldn’t be without one in their new home and and chose chose to to remove remove the the existing existing kitchen kitchen and and replace replace itit with with their their third Stuart Frazer kitchen. third Stuart Frazer kitchen.

For For them, them, Stuart Stuart Frazer Frazer isis not not just just the the best best but but they they love love how fabulous the SieMatic product is and wanted how fabulous the SieMatic product is and wanted aa sleek, sleek, contemporary kitchen which they felt was a better fit in their contemporary kitchen which they felt was a better fit in their new home. new home.

The The modern modern house house could could take take aa bold, bold, dark dark design design and and Manchester Showroom Manager Paul Rigby made the most Manchester Showroom Manager Paul Rigby made the most of of the light, airy space and designed a kitchen that was perfect the light, airy space and designed a kitchen that was perfect for the long, narrow room. The island makes an ideal working for the and long,Paul narrow room.

The island anthat idealit working space cleverly designed the makes table so aligned space Paul doors cleverly designed tableview so that with theand sliding and gave a the perfect out itin aligned to the with the sliding doors and gave a perfect view out in to the garden when dining. garden when dining.

The orange seating gives the overall space a splash of colour and orangefeature seatingwall gives the overall a splash of colour and aThe fabulous based on a space showroom display towards a fabulous feature wall based on a showroom display towards the end of the kitchen creates real interest with back-lit features and a magnetic backdrop allowing items towith be displayed. the end of the kitchen creates real interest back-lit features and a magnetic backdrop allowing items to be displayed.

Being a keen cook, Louise opted for Gaggenau appliances Being a keen opted for Gaggenau appliances throughout andcook, lovesJoanne how fantastic they are, especially the steam oven.and Theloves end result is a stunning that Ian and throughout how fantastic they space are, especially the Louise are delighted with.

Stuart Frazer have done another steam oven. The end result is a stunning space that Ian and fantastic job;delighted they lovewith. their Stuart third Stuart and if Joanne are FrazerFrazer have kitchen done another they everjob; needed it would havekitchen to be Stuart fantastic they another love theirkitchen third Stuart Frazer and if Frazer again! they ever needed another kitchen it would have to be Stuart Frazer again!

THERE IS NO SERIOUS ALTERNATIVE

GREATEST DAYS

Image courtesy of MCPIX

The Ribble Valley became a film set recently, for a forthcoming global, feel-good movie that has an all-star cast and Take That band members as executive producers

localfocus

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T

Photography: Lee Malone

he cast and crew for the new Take That feel-good movie, Greatest Days, were spotted filming at various locations in Clitheroe.

In one scene, the actors playing the band members, looked to be having fun as they excitedly bounded down the steps of a local church, wearing matching blue suits.

The first week of filming in Clitheroe ended with one of the major scenes from the film – a big song and dance number at Clitheroe Castle. Acclaimed producer Kate Solomon of Elysian Film Group, who was present at the shoot, said: “I’m writing this while we film our characters dancing down from Clitheroe Castle in the bright sunshine.

THANK-YOU CLITHEROE! WE ARE LOVING SHOOTING HERE AND WE CAN TOTALLY SEE WHY THIS IS ONE OF THE HAPPIEST TOWNS IN ENGLAND! “We began filming on Monday morning and the rain finally relented on Thursday, but the spirit of the town has shone throughout. We are loving shooting here and we can totally see why this is one of the happiest towns in England!”

Following filming in Clitheroe there will be further shoots in London and Athens.

The film is based on the hit West End stage musical, The Band, which made its world premiere in 2017, before embarking on a UK tour.

The production will feature some of Take That’s biggest hits including Greatest Day, Patience, Back for Good, A Million Love Songs and Shine.

The story will follow five best friends who have the night of their lives while at a concert of their favourite boy band.

The group then reunite after 25 years, reminiscing on their past and how their lives have changed in a myriad of ways

and what lies ahead in the future.

The band members are played by newcomers Aaron Bryan, Dalvin Cory, Joshua Jung, Mark Samaras and Mervin Noronha. They join a star line-up including comedian and actress Aisling Bea, who won a TV Bafta in 2020, Alice Lowe (Black Mirror), Amaka Okafor (The Responder, The Split), Jayde Adams (Serious Black Jumper), Marc Wootton (Nativity), Lara McDonnell (Belfast), Jessie Mae Alonzo (Little Joe), Nandi Hudson (Army of Thieves), Carragon Guest and Eliza Dobson.

When her casting was announced, Aisling Bea said: “I am ready to Relight My Fire and get singing and dancing in this feel-good, joy fest of a movie!”

Producer Danny Perkins added: “Greatest Days is a film about people coming together, with nostalgia, friendship and joy – the beating heart of this universal story.

“This movie will resonate with audiences worldwide and I am delighted to welcome Aisling Bea to our exceptional filmmaking

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THIS IS A REALLY EXCITING TIME FOR US. WE’RE REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO WORKING WITH SUCH A TALENTED AND CREATIVE TEAM ON THE FILM team. We are determined to honour The Band musical and Take That’s legacy with our new film.”

Tim Firth, screenwriter and playwright (The Band and Calendar Girls) is no stranger to Clitheroe having spent holidays there as a child. He recalls how he set his first TV series in the region: “It wasn’t by chance I set my first BBC TV series, Preston Front, in the vicinity. We filmed three series in Padiham, Darwen, Colne and Haslingden over a period of some five or six years back in the nineties.

“I later returned to shoot Calendar Girls up the road near Skipton.”

Speaking about filming in Clitheroe, he added: “It’s a joy to get an opportunity to show off the beauty of this town in the

same way those earlier scripts celebrated other parts of the area.”

The Greatest Days movie adaptation follows hot on the heels of the recent success of music-based films such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman and Mamma Mia! Take That who have had 12 number one singles and have sold more than 45 million records worldwide, are rumoured to be writing a new song for the film and it said that band members Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald are very much involved in the movie as executive producers.

They have dedicated the film to those who have supported the band over the years.

Describing it as a celebration of their music, their fans and friendships, they said: “This is a really exciting time for us. We’re really looking forward to working with such a talented and creative team on the film and we’re absolutely delighted to have such a brilliant cast on board.”

Delighted that Clitheroe had been chosen as one of the filming locations, Ribble Valley Borough Council leader, Stephen Atkinson, said: “Our officers have worked behind the scenes for some years to bring this major feature film to Clitheroe. The cast and crew received a warm Ribble Valley welcome from enthusiastic residents and businesses, and sizeable crowds have gathered to watch the filming.

“This film will showcase Clitheroe and the surrounding countryside to a global audience and our officers are developing some fantastic ideas to build on its legacy.

“The last two years have been the most challenging the borough has ever faced and there are truly some ‘greatest days’ ahead as we move forward and show the world that we are open for business.”

Jonny Shelton, production liaison manager for national screen agency Filming in England, added: “We are always on the lookout for unique locations and Clitheroe certainly fits the bill. It has been a delight working with Ribble Valley Borough Council staff to support this prestigious project.”

Reflecting on the cast and crew’s time in Clitheroe, as filming came to a close, producer Kate Solomon, concluded: “From the joyous wedding scene in the beautiful church with Andy the vicar, to the scenes in Swales cafe and Ironing Maids, everyone has been wonderful!

“The residents and businesses have gone out of the way to help us, Modern Mobility have lent us scooters, Brioche cafe gave our crew toasties when they saw we were working late and the Doe Bakery have been incredible.

Thank-you Clitheroe!” n

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Shades of Grey: A Contemporary kitchen, utility and boot room for a Cheshire home Initially wanting an industrial style kitchen, a couple from Lymm in Cheshire chose Kitchen Design Centre after their friends recommended them.

Having extended their home and created a large open plan area, they went to the Failsworth showroom at Housing Units and met with designer John Crosby.

Being just 20 minutes from Kitchen Design Centre’s Urmston showroom, they also visited this showroom and gained valuable inspiration and ideas from the various displays on show, especially the utility room.

Seeing other displays meant they discounted an industrial style kitchen, which was their initial idea and opted for a sleek, modern contemporary kitchen in grey tones instead. John cleverly designed a space that was modern but also homely with twists such as open shelving in the island and contrasting textures throughout.

A matching utility room was created and John also designed a functional boot room with tall units for outerwear storage and a bench and hooks for storage and seating by the back door.

The couple are delighted with John and the whole Kitchen Design Centre team including the fitters and love their new kitchen space.

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

Designer John Crosby says “Initially, the architect’s plans had a small window which would have offset the main focus of the kitchen, which was the hob wall. After successfully using the same design idea on a previous kitchen installation, I suggested a ‘letter box window’ to be positioned in the centre of the run.

This allows natural light into the space and replaces a backsplash. With the Corian running in to form the window sill it creates a seamless, easy to maintain worktop. I am really pleased with the finished space.”

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AMATO CORNER MODULAR SET £1999 Loom Loft Barrow Brook Business Village Holly Road Barrow Clitheroe BB7 9WF 01200 404404 loomloft.co.uk

HERE COMES THE SUN It’s time to get your garden summer ready with some practical accessories and stylish additions to make your outdoor space a place in which you can relax and unwind OUTDOOR BAMBOO STYLE LANTERN £49.99 loomloft.co.uk

LARGE BUDDHA HEAD PLANTER £49.99 loomloft.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

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GARDENING GAUNTLETS ENGLISH ROSE LINEN AND LEATHER £29.95 annabeljames.co.uk AMATO DUAL RECLINER SET £1099 loomloft.co.uk

SOPHIE ALLPORT BEES GARDENING KNEELER £23 sophieallport.com

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Beautiful Spaces Achieve a perfect blend of practicality and aesthetics, by combining fabulous flooring with stunning accessories

BAC K TO NAT U R E These Ca’Pietra Woodland Glade Melange Green tiles give a retro look to a beautiful bathroom. The collection of wall and floor tiles awakens the senses and comes in a matt finish porcelain. With nine different patterns and a soft, tonal nature-themed palette, each 21.5 x 24.5cm hexagon comes as part of a pre-made, mixed pattern. hyperiontiles.co.uk

IN THE PINK The YOU range from Utopia is available in 21 door finishes and eight different carcass options, so it’s easy to create your perfect modular bathroom. This unit in blush finish is paired beautifully with a brass toned mixer tap and drawer handles.

The Original Bathroom Company 84 Liverpool Road Preston PR4 5NB 01772 611622

S O F T LY D O E S I T Combined with mood lighting and stunning accessories, this matt stone freestanding bath, with Italian matt black brassware, looks warm and inviting. Large format porcelain marble tiles are used for half-tiling to create a warmer feel and when combined with contrasting black stone tops for the niche and windowsill, along with the matt finishes, the overall effect is softer.

Ribble Valley Bathrooms Barrow Brook Trade Park Clitheroe BB7 9BQ 01200 440000 ribblevalleybathrooms.co.uk

GRAIN & TEXTURE Add a luxurious and warm touch to your home with the Amtico Spacia collection. This beautiful floor boasts a realistic wooden effect, complete with imitation grains and textures. The unique Quantum-Guard urethane coating expertly protects the surface against wear and tear and adds a beautiful low-gloss finish, adding to the floor’s natural appearance. It is fully waterresistant so can be installed anywhere including high-moisture environments such as bathrooms. It is also splash and spill resistant, making it an excellent choice for any family home.

With a 25-year domestic warranty and a 10-year commercial one, it’s the perfect choice for any environment!

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

K E E P I T WA R M New to the Signature range in 2021, Berkeley Cathedral Oak is beautifully worn with undulations and the feeling of generations of footfall. Waves of honey, caramel and cocoa add warmth to these richly textured boards. Expert hand-finishing enhances every feature, highlighting the already beautiful natural finishes and hues. woodpeckerflooring.co.uk

B L AC K & WH I T E The monochrome look is guaranteed to add wow to any room scheme. But, when it comes to black and white bathroom ideas, this classic colour combination is always a winner. This stylishly modern bathroom suite is no exception. Sink into the luxurious bath tub, with the sleek, contrasting black fixtures and fittings. The marble flooring, tiling and furniture bring an added touch of glamour, setting off the striking black shower enclosure to perfection.

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BEAUTIFUL BARN BATHROOM A brief to create a sumptuous bathroom in a rural retreat was beautifully achieved by incorporating luxurious fittings alongside historic features

R

ibble Valley Bathrooms, owned and run by sisters Sophie and Abbie, was recently tasked by their clients Andrew and Henrietta, to design a bathroom and cloakroom for a beautiful, exclusive Boutique Retreat in Settle, North Yorkshire.

Working alongside designer Sophie, Henrietta, wanted to retain the original features of Hartley Hare, as Sophie explains: “Taking a bath should be an enjoyable, tranquil and uplifting experience that allows us to focus on our wellness and wellbeing. Therefore, your bathroom space should be an environment you enjoy and want to spend time in.”

Ribble Valley Bathrooms work on projects all over the UK from initial concept through to completion. It’s a collaborative process right from the initial design consultation.

WE MANAGED TO USE MODERN STYLING IN A HISTORIC SETTING “With this particular client we thought very carefully about the material choices and how they would complement the character of the barn,” adds Sophie.

With this in mind, it was decided to retain and re-use the original boskins which are the wooden panels or large flagstones that divide the stalls in a barn or outbuilding.

Andrew and Henrietta revamped the Hartley Hare wooden boskin themselves, sanding and oiling it.

“It was important that we incorporated the original features of the barn, such as reusing the boskin in the bathroom as a privacy divider between the bath and WC.”

After discussions in Ribble Valley Bathroom’s beautiful showroom and at on-site meetings, the choice of fixtures and fittings was agreed: “We selected matt sanitaryware, Pietra Gris marble worktop along with matt black Italian brassware, a soft palette to complement the surroundings,” explains Sophie.

Delighted clients Andrew and Henrietta first started their design journey at Ribble Valley Bathroom’s showroom: “It made me feel like a child in a sweet shop! There are so many varied and inspiring bathroom, shower and vanity displays – which I must add, are changed regularly to keep up to date with current trends and new products,” recalls Henrietta.

“Sophie provided excellent advice, a friendly and courteous service and extensive product knowledge, which was all delivered in a very calm and professional manner.

We managed to use modern styling in a historic setting, which included a wooden boskin, a listed artifact intrinsic to the barn, which was used to great effect.

“As a result of the overall wonderful experience, my husband and I have now RIBBLE VALLEY BATHROOMS decided to upgrade our own master en-suite.

Back to the sweet shop! Ribble Valley Bathrooms is a one-stop showroom for our whole refurbishment. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!” n

RIBBLE VALLEY BATHROOMS

Ribble Valley Bathrooms Barrow Brook Trade Park, Clitheroe BB7 9BQ 01200 440000 ribblevalleybathrooms.co.uk @ribblevalleybathrooms Hartley Hare is now available to experience for yourself through Boutique Retreats Uncover your retreat of dreams here: boutique-retreats.co.uk @boutiqueretreats

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THE PLUMBER’S FRIEND… With a huge range of domestic and commercial heating spares, all offered at competitive prices, H&S Plumber’s Merchants is the place to go

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f you’re a plumber, opening a trade account at H&S Plumber’s Merchants will give you access to an extensive range of heating and boiler spares from leading manufacturers at trade prices.

With 40 years’ experience, the team at family-run H&S understand the need to keep heating systems maintained and in good working order. They can supply the parts you need and, as a trade customer, if they don’t have what you need in stock, they will source it for next-day delivery.

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To open a trade account and become a valued trade customer is simple. Go to the website and fill in the online form or give the team a call – it’s as easy as that!

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OPEN AN H&S TRADE ACCOUNT NOW! H&S Plumber’s Merchants Oxford Mill, Montague Street Blackburn BB2 1EH (Next to Aldi) 01254 54775 sales@hs-bathrooms.co.uk hs-bathrooms.co.uk Open Monday to Friday: 8am-5pm, Saturday: 8am-3pm

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S C A N D I STYLE S candinavian design first emerged as a global design trend in the 1950s, following a successful tour of the Design in Scandinavia show, which captivated attendees with its range of Nordic furniture, glassware and home accessories.

During the last century, Nordic populations were subjected to long, harsh winters and subsequently spent a significant amount of time in their homes. As a rule, houses were small, so interiors were designed to be cosy, but not cramped with excess furniture. Recent Scandi-inspired trends like ‘hygge’ and ‘japandi’ perfectly reflect this style, with their focus on clean lines, functional furniture and warm textures.

Primarily, Scandinavian design is about creating a practical and calming space, so it’s ideal for bedrooms. Here we explore ways in which you can create the perfect Scandinavian-style sleep space that is both functional and stylish.

Characterised by minimalism and functionality, Scandinavian design has recently seen a surge in popularity as home-owners and interior designers increasingly incorporate the main elements into modern living spaces CALM & UNCLUTTERED

NORDIC NEUTRALS

Scandinavian design aims to achieve a light and airy feel, so when it comes to decorating your interior walls, it’s best to take the minimalist approach. Create a light backdrop by painting walls white and then incorporate other colours through furniture and soft furnishings. Varying shades of grey are very popular in Scandinavian design, as are natureinspired shades like muted greens and beiges.

There’s no rule to say you can’t incorporate bolder colours, just ensure that you apply the ‘less is more’ approach and use subtle pops of colour here and there to add interest to a predominantly neutral space.

Scandinavian spaces are designed to evoke a sense of calm so there is no place within a Scandi-inspired bedroom for busy, cluttered surfaces. Piles of washing, stacks of opened letters or a disorganised display of knick-knacks will only add visual distractions to the desired streamlined effect.

Have a thorough spring clean and then sort through your belongings. Donate or dispose of anything you no longer want or need. Surfaces needn’t be entirely bare – one or two simple decorative pieces are ideal.

HARTLEYS FIT TING FURNITURE FOR YOU

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LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING

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Live Magazines need enthusiastic and reliable delivery people to join our established teams across the Ribble Valley.

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

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

WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR DELIVERY PEOPLE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

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made locally just for you To request your FREE design visit, call 01756 700471 Or visit our factory/showroom Open Mon to Fri 9:30am–4:30pm Saturday by appointment

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FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE

Key to a Scandinavian room design is purpose. Ornate or overly decorative pieces of furniture are a big no-no. Furniture is mainly functional, taking up as little of your room as possible to facilitate navigation.

Designed to make efficient use of space whilst providing the clean lines often associated with Nordic design, fitted furniture is ideal for Scandi-style bedrooms. Bespoke in nature, it can incorporate all kinds of clever storage solutions to help keep surfaces clear from clutter and belongings organised. Scandinavian design also celebrates craftsmanship, which is exactly what you should receive if you choose bespoke furniture made by an independent maker.

INCORPORATE NATURE

The Scandinavians have a strong relationship with nature due to a historic scarcity of natural resources, and their need to work incredibly hard to obtain them. Natural, organic and sustainable materials frequently feature in Scandinavian home interiors, helping to achieve a light and airy feel.

Stripped floorboards and wooden furniture are popular, and nature-inspired decorative

pieces will add hints of colour and areas of interest.

Achieve the super trendy hygge look by layering soft furnishings in natural materials such as cotton, linens, hessian and sheepskin.

Don’t forget about natural light! Keep windows clear and open, or dress minimally with light drapes to allow as much daylight into your home as possible.

CREATIVE CONTRASTS

Like many major interior design styles, Scandinavian design relies heavily on contrast, but this doesn’t necessarily mean using contrasting colours. A unique and creative space can be achieved through a combination of patterns, textures and shapes. Contrast old decorative items with modern sculptures, rough materials with silky soft furnishings and straight-edged furniture with curved headboards – it’s an engaging way of adding interest to an otherwise simple and minimalist space.

At Hartleys we’re specialists in maximising space, whatever the dimensions of your room.

Our aim is to design an aesthetically pleasing, functional furniture layout which moulds itself around the contours of the room, leaving breathing space for easy navigation.

Our range of furniture finishes includes light and airy shades as well as natural woodgrains for the perfect Scandi appeal. n If you’d like to hear more about our bespoke storage solutions, you can call us on 01756 700471, visit our Yorkshire showroom, or see us online.

We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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AT HE A RT OF YOUR HO ME KI T CHENS T HE 1909 CO LLECT I O N I S A N OUTSTA ND ING E X AMPLE O F BEAU T I F U L CR AFT SMANSHI P. Featuring two core designs, the contemporary slab and the classic Shaker, the painted timber 1909 collection is available in a palette of stunning colourways. As the 1909 cabinetry can be customised to suit your style, this timeless British-made collection allows for a bespoke look … at an affordable price.

Call in to Heart Of Your Home’s stunning showroom, meet owner and designer Katie Green, to discover how the 1909 collection can transform your kitchen and enhance your lifestyle.

“Katie is a great problem solver when it comes to working around unusual, tricky spaces and we are absolutely thrilled with our new 1909 kitchen!”

Call Katie on

01200 444540 to book your exclusive studio or home design appointment

Backridge Farm Business Centre, Twitter Lane, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe BB7 3LQ www.heartofyourhomekitchens.co.uk

WINNER

HELP IS ALWAYS AT HAND With a smart new website and growing clientele, the Helping Hands Group is all set for another successful year

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ed by founder Suzanne Waring, the Helping Hands Group has evolved over more than two decades into a respected business that services both the private and commercial sectors, cleaning houses and offices throughout the North West.

One side of the businesses that has seen rapid growth is the cleaning of holiday homes as Suzanne explains: “We have built a

reputation for spotless cleans along with a quick turnaround. For the new occupiers, it’s like no-one has stayed there before.”

Lockdown saw the Helping Hands Group expand even further as commercial offices demanded deeper cleans and in the private sector the home help side of the business also grew as families were kept apart and the elderly needed extra assistance.

“The Home Help service we provide is bespoke to suit each individual. It may be that someone just need beds making, a shop or even companionship,” says Suzanne, who has Deborah and Janet at the helm of the Home Help team.

“We also try and ensure that elderly clients get the same face visiting and all our clients have the reassurance that all the team are enhanced DBS checked.”

If you are a private homeowner who

needs a weekly or one-off clean, a business that requires a cleaning team regularly for your offices or you need low-key assistance for a loved one, the Helping Hands Group has built an enviable reputation over the past 25 years. n

Helping Hands Group 5 Windmill Cottages Preston New Road Mellor Brook, Blackburn BB2 7NT 01254 812144 thehelpinghandsgroup.co.uk

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HERE’S WHAT HELPING HANDS’ COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC CLIENTS SAY ABOUT THEM: “Helping Hands has transformed how I manage my holiday cottage. I am now able to relax knowing that all the chores are covered. The teams not only do an excellent job cleaning but deliver a full laundry service and replenish household items such as toiletries, logs etc. This service is flexible around changes to bookings and is always reliable and professional.

In addition, we have recently been awarded four gold stars – the highest rating for cleanliness. I would not hesitate to recommend the peace of mind the Helping Hands service has brought to me.”

Nickie Hopwood

“After years of indifferent results with our office cleaning we appointed Helping Hands following recommendation three years ago. We required the offices, which include a shop element, to be cleaned mid-week and finished by the 9am opening time.

Despite a sizeable journey, and in all conditions, the Helping Hands team always arrive on time at 7:15am and always complete their task before opening. The team are friendly, hardworking, completely trustworthy and leave the offices spotless. I am absolutely delighted with the results and can’t recommend them too highly.”

Guy Penn

“When we built our world-class HQ in Preston, Lancashire, we knew that we needed a world-class team to take care of it.

Helping Hands can be relied upon and our building remains in its as-new condition, because they pay it the care and attention it deserves. I know that regardless of the things that need doing, the Helping Hands team of trustworthy, reliable professionals can get it done and they do so to exceptional standards.”

EKM

“I have been using Helping Hands for a number of years now, they have literally been a life saver for our ever-growing family.

I love a clean and tidy house but would work all week and then spend all weekend cleaning – Helping Hands changed all of that.

They fit in with our busy schedules, nothing is ever a problem, not even our two dogs. Not only do the teams clean my home, the property maintenance team has built a large fence around our field for extra security for our dogs. The teams are friendly, trustworthy and very efficient, they do a brilliant job! Now I come home to a clean house and have my weekends free, it really does make such a difference to family life.”

J Walsh

“We have been using Helping Hands for both our personal households and our holiday let business since 2015. During that time they have never let us down once. The staff are friendly, hardworking, respectful, unobtrusive and importantly, trustworthy.

They come in to work efficiently and leave our holiday let ready for its next occupants. Punctuality is good and they are willing to respond to any reasonable request. The standard of cleaning is very good. We also use the laundry services. This is a muchappreciated service due to the volume of bedding that we incur.

The office staff are also very easy to deal with, being helpful and polite and keep me informed of schedule changes.”

M Clarke

“Trust and confidence is very important when allowing people into your home and as such I have no qualms with Helping Hands. ‘Helping Hands’ describes them perfectly. The team provide an excellent service and set about their work with an enthusiasm not matched by me! I can only say I’m so glad I found them and appreciate the wonderful difference they make to our home.”

M Rose

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A TOUCH OF

Respected kitchen suppliers Howdens is now offering customers more choice than ever in terms of high performance, world-class solid kitchen worktops.

With their Clitheroe showroom full of displays and samples, the latest addition to the Howdens showcase is a selection of 15 Silestone samples.

Silestone combines style with practicality, so whether you’re looking to replace your kitchen or simply update your existing one with new-look work surfaces, Howdens provide a professional, end-to-end service for customers with the manufacture, fabrication, laser templating and installation of these premium, solid surface worktops.

Easy to maintain and with a high level of resistance, Silestone comes in a range of beautiful colours and Howdens offers over-the-counter competitive quotes as well as on-site visits to generate competitive price-matching.

Call into the Howdens showroom to see the latest Silestone collection and see how you can transform your kitchen into a luxurious, inspirational and practical living space that works for you and your family.

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homesinsideout

PLANTS THAT MAKE YOU SMILE M aking the best use of the lengthening days in April is a bonus and, providing the weather stays fair, it can be a brilliant gardening month.

In addition to dead-heading spring bulbs, now is the time to get planting so why not think about one or two new additions to your garden that will make you feel really happy.

A survey carried out at the Chelsea Flower Show identified the top three plants in the

The garden really comes alive in April and the number of tasks to be carried out is considerable UK that are most likely to put a smile on your face – Lily of the Valley, Sweet Pea and Jasmine – so they might make good additions to your garden this year.

Lily of the Valley – can be planted in borders or underneath a tree and they are very low maintenance and easy to grow.

They make good ground cover for shady

spots and are beautifully fragrant with creamy white, bell-shaped, nodding flowers.

Sweet Pea – available in a huge variety of bright and pastel colours with frilly, delicate and often sweetly fragrant flower heads. They work well in a sunny or partially shaded area in fertile, welldrained soil.

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Climbing Jasmine – can be highly scented, with varieties that flower in summer and winter. All produce pretty flowers and are fairly easy to grow against walls or up a trellis.

If you want to make the kids happy then there are some fun options for them to plant such as Sunflowers, Snapdragons and the Four o’Clock Flower.

The Sunflower – a real family favourite.

If you look at a sunflower, you can’t help but smile. Not only does it remind us of the sun, but its head will track the sun through the sky, and wherever the light is a sunflower will find it.

Snapdragons – great because they come in a variety of colours and sizes, and also you can pinch the blossoms so they open and shut just like a dragon’s mouth.

Snapdragon flowers are specifically designed for bumblebees, which are just the right weight to trip the opening mechanism of the lower lip of the flower to gain access to nectar.

The Four o’Clock Flower – also known as the Marvel of Peru, is a bushy plant with

trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, yellow or white. The fragrant flowers don’t open until late afternoon, around four o’clock – so, good for telling the time.

If you are growing your own veg then now is a good time to start sowing tomatoes, so you can enjoy them throughout the summer.

APRIL REALLY KICK STARTS THE GARDENING SEASON: The Royal Horticultural Society advises: “Spring is finally in evidence as daffodils and flowering trees start to bloom.

Expect the inevitable April showers this month but with sunny days too, when you can turn your attention to the lawn.

It’s an exciting month, with indoor-sown seeds well into growth, and it’s also time to start sowing outdoors. Just watch out for frosts. Top three jobs this month – sow hardy annuals, herbs and wildflower seeds outside, protect fruit blossoms from late frost and tie in climbing and rambling roses.

To grow tomatoes successfully, you need rich, fertile soil or peat-free potting compost, and a good sunny, sheltered spot. Water regularly and feed regularly once the plants start to flower. Tomatoes are split into two main growing types – bush and cordon.

Bush types are usually planted in containers and their stems trail around the edge.

NOW IS A GOOD TIME TO START SOWING TOMATOES, SO YOU CAN ENJOY THEM THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER Cordon types are trained to grow tall and are supported by a cane or stake and will require pinching out. Growing tomatoes from seed is best done under cover, into seed trays, then when the seedlings get to 2-3cm tall transplant to small 5cm pots.

Keep potting on as they grow in size. They can be planted outside with cane supports once the last frosts have gone, so around May time. For best results, choose trusted varieties like Gardener’s Delight, Money Maker or Sweet Olive. n

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A GROWING BUSINESS…

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rothers Pete and Chris Bristol sowed the seeds of success two years ago when they launched Newlands Nursery in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

Their aim was to develop a thriving hub with home-grown plants at its heart. Fast forward and today the nursery is filled with plants that are hardy and grown to specifically withstand our northern climate.

The two multi-span tunnels provide the perfect environment for plants before they are moved outside to harden off in readiness for replanting in gardens throughout the region.

HERE AT NEWLANDS WE ARE PURELY PLANTS – THAT’S WHAT WE CONCENTRATE ON AND THAT’S WHAT WE DO BEST “We have customers travelling from all over the North West,” explains Pete. “We have a lot of customers from the Yorkshire Dales and Skipton, which is quite a way to travel but they are attracted by the fact that our plants are home grown and represent great value.”

Plants at Newlands are grown from bare

There is now more choice and variety than ever at Newlands Nursery thanks to extra growing capacity added over the winter.

Photography: Kirsten Platt roots, seeds and rooted cuttings and are lovingly tended throughout the growing season by gardening experts Pete and Chris, who have worked in horticulture throughout the country since their early teens. They attended Myerscough Agricultural College where they spent three years studying for a National Diploma in Horticulture and

after leaving, worked on nurseries as well as garden landscape and maintenance for 15 years.

Newlands is a dream come true for the brothers – their extensive nursery in Chatburn has been transformed into a plant haven – all backed up by eco-friendly credentials including an irrigation system

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using rainwater captured on-site.

Open from mid-February right through to late November, Newlands has new perennials coming through all the time, which are ready for sale. Over the coming weeks there will be bedding, hanging baskets and a series of ever-changing plants on offer. From alpines and perennials to fruit and vegetables,this nursery has everything

NEWLANDS NURSERY: ALPINES PERENNIALS BEDDING HANGING BASKETS FRUIT BUSHES VEGETABLE PLANTS SHRUBS HEDGES gardeners need for spring planting and there is always someone on hand to give expert advice: “There’s always one of us on site to meet customers and tell them what we think will grow well in their garden,” explains Pete, who along with Chris, are delighted to offer their loyal customers more choice and variety thanks to extra capacity and more growing space at the nursery.

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At Newlands both novice and expert gardeners will feel at home amidst the comprehensive collections of alpines, perennials, bedding plants, hanging baskets, shrubs, hedging, fruit and vegetable plants.

CUSTOMERS ARE ATTRACTED BY THE FACT THAT OUR PLANTS ARE HOME GROWN AND REPRESENT GREAT VALUE “Here at Newlands we are purely plants – that’s what we concentrate on and that’s what we do best. We are plant specialists and grow everything that we know will thrive in this area.”

As a family-run nursery, Newlands looks forward to welcoming gardeners to their site, where there is lots of friendly advice from the experts! n

Newlands Nursery Sawley Road, Chatburn Clitheroe BB7 4LD 07701 056951 newlandsnurserychatburn.co.uk Opening hours Monday to Saturday: 8am-5pm Sunday: 9am-4pm AMPLE CUSTOMER PARKING

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MEE T THE DESIGNERS Alli Croft, garden designer and lead creative and Holden Clough owner and award-winning plant expert John Foley, talk about the many and varied projects that have evolved from the original concept of the plant nursery

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orking together on creating beautiful gardens, Alli Croft and John Foley make a dynamic team. Perfectly complementing each other, Alli’s designs are quite simply stunning while John’s expertise in plants and planting, results in gardens that are ultimately aesthetically pleasing as well as being practical outdoor living spaces.

“We each have our specialism,” says Alli, who creates hand-painted, watercolour sketches when designing a garden.

If someone wants a full garden re-design or a design from scratch the process is simple, as Alli explains: “I get involved with the design element but if it’s a reevaluation of planting then John obviously is the person they go to.

TOGETHER WE WILL DISCUSS THE PROJECT IN DETAIL AND JOHN WILL CONSIDER THE PLANTING. HE WILL LOOK AT THE DRAWINGS AND SUMMARISE WHAT WILL WORK BEST “Planting has to take into account the weather and that’s what Holden Clough does best. We can get snow in April here in Lancashire and we have to take that into consideration when planting.”

Whether you have a tiny plot or a large expanse of garden, the team at Holden Clough can develop a design that will work for you: “If it’s a larger site we will

arrange a topographical survey, or if it’s relatively small, clients can measure the space themselves. I get to know clients and what their aims and needs are with regards to their outside space, whether they entertain, where they hang their washing – all the practical things associated with a garden,” says Alli, who then produces drawings in her distinctive style.

Always recognisable, her sketches feature gentle skilled detail in watercolour, which will outline the layout, garden features and lighting as well as Alli’s personal observations: “All my thoughts about the design will be noted on the drawings.”

When the client is happy with the design, John and Alli will meet at the Croft pod located near the beck at Holden Clough: “Together we will discuss the project in detail and John will consider the planting.

“He will look at the drawings and summarise what will work best. If a client has a preferential gardener John can provide a plant specification, which they can inherit. Alternatively, we always recommend Holden Clough as the plants are guaranteed – they are grown and chosen for a perfect end result.”

John adds: “The whole concept of Holden Clough is a collection of examples of garden features and elements that make up the design of your own garden.

It has been carefully designed with this in mind to create a truly inspirational nursery setting.”

In her designs Alli always includes a garden feature: “This is the axis around

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which the garden is centred and that often brings together the house and outside space.

“It may be a water feature or a sculpture,” says Alli, who often uses antique urns as centrepieces or one of Holden Clough’s striking terracotta urns from the Pots and Pithoi collection displayed outside Holden Clough’s Croft pod office, where a stone waterfall forms a beautiful natural backdrop.

“The Pots and Pithoi urns are made in Crete and are fabulous! Even if you just have a small back garden, one of these pots with a single topiary and an uplighter can form an eye-catching centrepiece. Less is more.

“Also in a small garden, mirrors can make a huge difference reflecting the light and making it look bigger. We have used them to great effect in Holden Clough’s show gardens.”

EVEN IF YOU JUST HAVE A SMALL BACK GARDEN, ONE OF THESE POTS WITH A SINGLE TOPIARY AND AN UPLIGHTER CAN FORM A STUNNING CENTREPIECE Alli, has worked with John on projects of varying sizes, as she explains: “We worked on a four-acre site which featured a pond, woodland gardens and a theatre – we have also worked on small cottage gardens whereby someone who is retiring might want a summerhouse where they can sit and read or enjoy a gin and tonic. I like to create different areas if possible, where people can dine or meditate – no garden should have just one single feature.”

When planting is considered John curates the plants to match the setting: “It becomes quite poetic. He curates them in a beautiful way,” says Alli. “Whether it’s borders or specific areas, repeating a sequence of planting over and over again, reflects classic garden design and the results are always stunning.” n

holdenclough.com

GIVE YOUR GARDEN THE STRIPES IT DESERVES

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ith spring sprung and summer just around the corner, it’s definitely ‘step into the garden’ time. We all want to spend more time enjoying al fresco dining, sitting and socialising than slogging behind a mower, which is exactly where lawn experts Mowerpower come in.

Based in Claughton-on-Brock, just outside Garstang, the garden equipment specialists have over 70 years’ expertise sourcing, supplying and servicing every clever gadget to keep your Eden idyllic.

“People simply fell in love with their gardens during lockdowns,” says Mowerpower owner and green-stripe supremo David Webster, whose greatgrandfather founded the family business in 1948. “They’ve become important places to meet with friends, relax and recharge in nature and fresh air.”

Mowerpower’s substantial showroom bursts with every kind of quality garden

With more of us discovering the benefits of glorious green spaces, gardeners big and small are reaping the benefits of a family company renowned for its equipment, expertise, and exceptional customer service, writes Kate Bowyer. Photography: Kirsten Platt machine imaginable, from Countax ride-on mowers to Stihl hedge trimmers. Having approved retailer status with all the top manufacturers of garden equipment, including

WE ONLY SELL MACHINES THAT WE CAN EASILY SOURCE SPARE PARTS AND SERVICE OURSELVES, KEEPING THEM MATCH-FIT TO COPE WITH DECADES OF HARD LABOUR! Hayter, Mountfield, ATCO, Stiga, Echo and Masport means customers can be assured of the best range, choice, expertise, and aftercare service.

“Some customers mention cheaper mowers they’ve seen elsewhere, but, quite rightly, they’re concerned about parts,” advises David. “With a lack of spare parts available for these machines, if they go wrong, they are literally beyond repair.

If you have to buy another two years later, that’s false economy. We only sell machines that we can easily source spare parts and service ourselves, keeping them match-fit to cope with decades of hard labour!”

David used lockdown to expand and relaunch the company’s website. An inviting, ‘power-toy’-packed resource, it’s become a valuable tool for customers and staff alike: “People love browsing from the comfort of their own sofa. Some like the ease of

homesinsideout being able to click to buy online, others ring for a more detailed chat, or come in, especially with large machinery or specific needs, there’s nothing like getting a bit hands-on. And with thousands of products in stock and available to order, the website means I don’t have to rely on memory for the finer details!”

There’s also nothing like Mowerpower’s 70 years of accumulated expertise. Whether you want knife-sharp stripes, to wrestle an unruly overgrown jungle under control, or have acres of lawn stretching off to the horizon, David’s friendly team know exactly the questions to ask to get the right match between customers and machine.

Using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, Websters’ busy team of full-time mechanics can service and repair most machines within days, part of their famously comprehensive aftercare service.

They also keep up to speed with the latest technology and customer trends.

“People are discovering the professionals’ secret for maintaining beautiful, lowmaintenance lawns: Scarifying,” observes David. “This means removing debris like grass cuttings and moss, which can choke the grass and leave it dry, patchy, and even dead.”

“The new generation of scarifiers from manufacturers like ALKO, Stihl, Stiga and Eliet easily and effectively remove this waste, encouraging new growth and resulting in a greener, denser, healthier lawn, virtually overnight. They’re real gamechangers.”

From hand-tools of a few pounds and easily manoeuvrable lawnmowers for small plots, right up to £10,000 ride-ons, David and the team have something for everyone.

Their customers range from weekend trimmers to professional gardeners and landscapers, and commercial and council contractors to the specialist needs of schools, sport clubs, churches, care homes and caravan parks.

“Some need hardworking equipment that needs to be as unobtrusive to their customers or tenants as possible,” says David.

“So we’ve supplied robotic, programmable and self-guided equipment which is virtually silent, and will happily work throughout the night – residents say it’s like magic when they look out in the morning!”

It’s not just commercial outfits seeking the latest technology. “Spending more time at home instead of jetting off on holiday means many of us have the desire and cash to invest in making our garden a real ‘extra room’,” observes David. “Cordless machinery is definitely the hot ticket: It’s safer, lighter, and more versatile.” Not just hedge trimmers: literally cutting-edge cordless electric mowers like the Hayter Hawk, available to suit all size plots, give up to an hour of perfect stripes on a single charge.

Moving to their Brock showroom in 2016 allowed Mowerpower to expand their ranges, workshops for speedy aftercare, and offer easy access to customers from across the North West. However, it remains very

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much a family affair, with David hands on from website to workshop, and his mother and father Richard and Lynn still very much involved.

FROM HAND-TOOLS OF A FEW POUNDS AND EASILY MANOEUVRABLE LAWNMOWERS FOR SMALL PLOTS, RIGHT UP TO £10,000 RIDE-ONS, DAVID AND THE TEAM HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE And how about David’s home turf?

“All I’ll say is that my wife has got used to my excuses: that when the grass needs cutting at home, everyone else’s does too, and as it’s our busiest time of year, work comes first!”

Keeping busy is something David clearly relishes, but it’s all about working smart, as he leaves me with a last top tip: “With a little organisation and the right tools, your garden can be a vital, beautiful part of your living space. Don’t leave it to the last minute: get started now and you’ll find it much easier to keep on top of it all with less effort. Then during the summer months, sit back, relax, and enjoy.” n

Mowerpower Ltd. Garstang Road, Claughton-on-Brock Preston PR3 0RB 01995 643999 mowerpower.co.uk

Why Mike never Why Mike never Why Why Mike Mike never never Why Mike never mows his lawn… mows his lawn… mows mows his his lawn… lawn… mows his lawn…

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An Ambrogio L35 deluxe Robot mower.

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We still spend most We We still still spend spend most most weekends gardening We still spend most but Mike weekends weekends gardening gardening but but Mike Mike is able me other weekends gardening but Mike is able to to help help me with with other is is able able toto help help me me with with other other things instead of is able now to help me with other things now instead of simply simply things things now now instead instead ofof simply simply mowing andinstead taking of mountains things now simply mowing and taking mountains mowing mowing and and taking taking mountains mountains of grass clippings the tip. mowing and takingto of grass clippings tomountains the tip. ofof grass grass clippings clippings to to the the tip. tip. of grass clippings to the tip.

Having a to take care of Having a robot robot to to take care ofofof Having Having a robot a robot to take take care care the mowing hasto had a much Having a robot take care of thethe mowing hashas had a much the mowing mowing has had had a much a much greater knock onhad effect on the mowing has a much greater knock on on effect ononon greater greater knock knock on effect effect how the garden looks than greater knock on effect on just howhow the garden looks than just how the the garden garden looks looks than than just just improving the condition of the how the garden looks than just improving thethe condition of of the improving improving the condition condition of the the lawn - passers by regularly improving the condition of the lawn - passers by by regularly lawn lawn - passers - passers by regularly regularly compliment us,byand although lawn - passers regularly compliment compliment us, and and although although compliment us,us, and although we do work hard in italthough we are compliment us, and we we do do work work hard hard in in it it we we are are we do work hard in or it we are free towork do ashard much as little we do in it we are free free toto do asas much much or as as little little free do asdo much asor little as weto weor free towant do aswhen much orwant. as little asas we we want want when when we want. want. as we want when wewe want. as we want when we want.

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Tyler, AutoMowIt’s lawn and Tyler, Tyler, AutoMowIt’s AutoMowIt’s lawn lawn and and robot expert is fantastic, Tyler, AutoMowIt’s lawn and robot robot expert expert is is fantastic, fantastic, but then we have to say that robot expert is fantastic, but but then then wewe have have toto say say that that because our neighbour but then he’s we have to say that because because he’s he’s our our neighbour neighbour - seriously though if you’re because he’s our neighbour - seriously - seriously though though if if you’re you’re about getting a robot -thinking though if you’re - seriously seriously though if you’re thinking thinking about about getting getting a robot a robot don’t hesitate and if you’re thinking about getting a robot thinking about getting robot don’t don’t hesitate hesitate and and if aif you’re you’re visiting the AutoMowIt demo don’t hesitate hesitate and if if you’re you’re don’t and visiting visiting the the AutoMowIt AutoMowIt demo demo garden feel free to nip over the visiting the AutoMowIt demo visiting the AutoMowIt demo garden garden feel feel free free toto nip nip over over the the fence and have atolook at mine. garden feel free nip over the garden feel free to nip over the fence fence and and have have a look a look atat mine. mine. fence and have a look at mine. fence and have a look at mine.

The easier way The easier way The The easier easier way way The easier way to a perfect lawn to to a a perfect perfect lawn lawn to a perfect lawn • Advice, supply, install • Advice, supply, install • Advice, • Advice, supply, supply,install install and maintenance • and Advice, supply, install andmaintenance maintenance maintenance • and Authorised distributors • Authorised •for Authorised distributors distributors Ambrogio • for Authorised distributors forAmbrogio Ambrogio • for FreeAmbrogio remote lawn • Free • Freeremote remotelawn lawn analysis and quote • analysis Free remote lawn analysis and andquote quote analysis and quote

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Call 0800 15 22 123 Call Call 0800 0800 1515 2222 123 123 Visit www.automowit.co.uk Call 0800 15 22 123 Call 0800 15 22 123 Visit Visit www.automowit.co.uk www.automowit.co.uk Find us on Facebook @automowit Visit www.automowit.co.uk Visit www.automowit.co.uk Find Find us us onon Facebook Facebook @automowit @automowit Find us on Facebook @automowit Find us on Facebook @automowit

homesinsideout

FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS So Plants is a country plant store located in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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haven for local gardeners, So Plants is located on the site of the family’s Little Town Farm, the farm shop, tearoom and Little Town Dairy.

So Plants was established five years ago by eldest daughter Michelle Unsworth, whose knowledgeable team specialises in hardy plants for the locality.

The team at So Plants are very sensitive to changing demands and are very environmentally aware. After much research into the best growing mediums, all their own-grown perennials are now planted in locally sourced peat-free compost. Recyclable pots are used and they keep wastage to a minimum. So Plants likes to keep it local and keep the plant-miles to a minimum. So Plants also likes to keep things local to keep plant-miles as low as possible.

April is an extremely busy and fun time at the nursery as the store is packed with own-grown and locally-sourced, British plants and related goods in abundance.

The summer hanging basket season is underway and the team have grown an excellent reputation for producing top quality flower-filled baskets and tubs to last through until late autumn. Customers are invited to bring their own baskets and tubs for a bespoke, colour coordinated filling

service or buy one of their off-the-peg full colour displays.

“In recent years white, lemons and limes have been very popular, but this year red, white and blue is a growing trend due to the Queen’s jubilee,” says Michelle.

WITH A GREAT CAFÉ PRODUCING HOMEMADE FOOD NEXT DOOR, IT’S A ONE STOP SHOP FOR RIBBLE VALLEY GARDENERS An excellent range of bedding and basket plants are offered for sale from May, however customers are advised not to plant out until the chance of frosts are over at the end of May. The reasoning behind this is that although the late frosts may not kill the tender bedding plants, their vigour is diminished, and a better display will be achieved by waiting until the last week in May or early June to plant out.

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As well as a huge range of perennials, shrubs and trees, So Plants have an exceptional range of plant related sundries and over 15 lines of compost, many of which are peat free.

The nursery also has a superb range of frost proof pots, organic fertilisers and wild bird food and lots more.

With a great café producing homemade food next door, it’s a one stop shop for Ribble Valley gardeners.

The team at So Plants are always happy to offer a friendly welcome and are on hand to offer professional horticultural advice, with a team of experienced plants people on site seven days a week.

Visitors also have the added bonus of meeting Melly – the latest recruit and probably the best canine ‘meeter and greeter’ in the area! n

So Plants Little Town Farm, Chipping Road Thornley nr Longridge PR3 2TB 01772 784010 soplants

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homesinsideout means that Mediterranean-type planting will become a more popular choice.

Drought tolerant flowering plants such as lavender, perovskia and verbena will attract the bees, while shrubs such as Teucrium fruticans, Hebe pinguifolia Sutherlandii and Santolina chamaecy parissus will be planted as alternatives to traditional box and yew.

Try concentrating on implementing ecofriendly practices in your lawn care activities.

For instance, many people have started

GARDENING TRENDS Spring is here and most of us are looking forward to the better weather and getting back out in the garden. Claire Foster outlines the trends in garden design and gardening we can expect to see this year

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he over-arching trend this year will be the movement towards wildlife-friendly, plant-led gardens that enable everyone to do their bit for the environment. The heightened worry about climate change brings more understanding of the need for biodiversity, so gardens will be fizzing with plant and insect life. People re-tune to an aesthetic that is natural and perhaps a little rough around the edges, appreciating the character this brings.

Another reason for surrounding ourselves with plants is for their therapeutic value.

The pandemic has made us much more aware of our own mental health and we have learnt first hand how our gardens

have helped us through this difficult time.

Biophilia – the basic human need to interact with nature – is the word on everyone’s lips and our gardens can be used to give us the nature-hit we need.

using natural pesticides and herbicides to avoid pests and insects in their gardens instead of chemicals. You could take a similar approach in 2022. All products used should be non-toxic and safe for humans, pets and the environment. Similarly, try using recycled water to water your garden.

For most of our lives, we stay indoors.

But many of us wish to cherish the beauty of nature. Having a lawn area with beautiful bushes and trees and a cozy central space will be a great place to escape the indoors.

BIOPHILIA – THE BASIC HUMAN NEED TO INTERACT WITH NATURE – IS THE WORD ON EVERYONE’S LIPS AND OUR GARDENS CAN BE USED TO GIVE US THE NATURE-HIT WE NEED After the stresses and strains of the pandemic, we all need colour in our lives, and planting schemes are moving away from the tasteful pastels and muted colours that have been in vogue for the past decade towards something much bolder. Lustrous, jewel-like colours will be all the rage – but not necessarily in harmonious sweeps or blocks. Planting schemes will be random and natural, like a stylised meadow, designed more for pollinators than human beings.

The uncertainty of climate change and the likelihood of longer periods without rain

Like many plants in the garden, the grass in your lawn could do with a boost in spring.

This involves aerating, scarifying, tidying and fertilising your lawn, helping the grass to regenerate and grow strongly. What’s more, tidying the lawn edges helps to improve the overall appearance of the lawn.

Your first cut of the year should be done with the mower blades set high to help thicken the grass. Afterwards, focus on weeding to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. n

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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homesinsideout candle features notes of pear, white freesia, rhubarb, amber and gentle musk. The soy wax candle is vegan and is packaged with a handmade paper candle cover sprinkled with cottage flower seeds to scatter in your own garden.

COTTAGE GARDEN COLLECTION The costume maker for Netflix sensation Bridgerton, Liz Poole, has launched an exciting new collection of table linen, napkins and candles based on her own country cottage garden

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aunching in May, Bridgerton costume maker Liz Poole is delighted to introduce a new collection of limited edition table linen, home accessories and candles to her coveted Velvet Linen interiors range.

Since founding the brand in the summer of 2020, Liz has created a beautifully edited collection of home accessories which are made by hand by a team of artisans. Using only the finest Liberty print velvets and natural linen, the elegant soft furnishings and now table linen are set to become cherished heirlooms of the future.

The Peony collection similarly features table linen, napkins and a candle.

Velvet Linen is rapidly becoming a name to watch in the interior’s world, offering an incredible array of home accessories for lovers of the bold and beautiful or for those who have their keen eye on refined and elegant design.

The new Daisy Meadow and Peony collections feature beautiful digital prints taken directly from photos of Liz’s country cottage garden.

Inspired by the wildflower gardens of her cottage Liz has created a beautiful and whimsical collection of table linen and homeware celebrating flowers of the English countryside. Daisies, delphiniums, cow parsley and dahlias dance together in abundance.

It makes for the perfect backdrop to dress a table for those long summer lunches, whether they are indoors or al fresco.

The Daisy Meadow collection includes a round, square and rectangular tablecloth as well as napkins, cushions, director’s chairs and the brand’s first candle offering – the Daisy Meadow hand-poured three wick

Following the renovation of her Victorian Railway Cottage, Liz and her team worked on the finishing touches to her home. She soon realised that the cushions, quilts and seat pads that were being created using the finest velvets and natural linens, were gaining attention from family and friends.

Liz now has a studio working with the most talented team of makers and artisans, who make costumes for musicals, theatre and opera including West End’s smash-hit Hamilton, Glyndebourne Opera in Sussex and the Royal Opera House. n

velvetlinen.co uk

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

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homesinsideout

BESPOKE MEDIA WALLS A beautiful fire incorporated into a media wall becomes a focal point in any living space

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he latest craze in home improvement – media walls – combine your home entertainment systems including your TV and music centre, with modern electric fires to provide the focal point in your living room (or man cave) and they also save space.

The experienced team at Burning Desire can advise you not only on what materials and finishes will suit your interior decor – such as Venetian plastering or Microcement, tiles or paint – but also on which electric fire best fits with your requirements. Our range of top-quality electric fires provide an enormous choice of true to life log designs, flame patterns, LED colours and thermostatic remote controls. We stock all the leading international electric fire brands including OER, DRU, Gazco, Evonic, Polaris and Infinity.

We provide a full design, supply and installation service for media walls. So, why not pay a visit to our showrooms in Ramsbottom? We have working displays to show you just why everyone is asking about a bespoke media wall.

Mr and Mrs Taylor of Rossendale agree: “We chose Burning Desire because they are local to us and when we visited their showroom we had no hassle or pressure from them. Craig, the Sales Manager, was very informative and provided great advice and ideas throughout. The fire, tiled wall and TV combination really gives us the wow factor and we absolutely love our front room – everyone that visits say that they want a media wall too!” n

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

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Kinmel Pk, Bodelwyddan, N Wales LL18 5TY • SAT NAV: LL18 5TZ Lythgoes Lane (A49), Warrington WA2 7XE • SAT NAV: WA2 7XE FrithRugs is a trading name of G H Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd.

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homesinsideout For the kitchen area Mike and Georgina selected Karndean Art Select Parquet Storm Oak and for the garden room the Parquet Blonde Oak. Both fit absolutely beautifully with their new décor.

THE FLOORING LOOKS SO IMPRESSIVE THAT WE’VE HAD FRIENDS WHO HAVE INVESTED IN NEW KARNDEAN FLOORING Mike commented: “We’re absolutely thrilled with our new flooring, it is so easy to maintain and we don’t need to worry about walking on it with shoes as it is so durable. The team at Gainsborough Flooring have been

SOUND INVESTMENT Karndean Art Select Woods have created a real impact on the home of Mike and Georgina Lindley. Selected for its comfort, beauty and durability the flooring has certainly transformed their home, writes Meena McDonald. Photography: Jack Pomfret

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aving recently refurbished their kitchen and dining area along with their garden room, Mike and Georgina Lindley were keen to find appropriate flooring in keeping with their lifestyle and new décor. Their kitchen fitters suggested Karndean and recommended they speak to Gainsborough Flooring.

Following an initial consultation and inspection, the Gainsborough team confirmed that they would be able to retain the underfloor heating, which covered large areas of the ground floor, and better still, they could lay the Karndean on top of the existing stone floor in the kitchen and the tiled floor in the garden room.

Mike and Georgina were delighted as they wanted to avoid the mess and upheaval of having to rip their current flooring out.

The Karndean Art Select Woods have some stunning, intricate designs which are crafted to reflect the natural materials that inspired

them. The Art Select range is also designed to withstand the pressures of a busy household and won’t split, splinter or warp and has a non-porous surface that’s hygienic, so food and drink won’t contaminate or stain the surface. It’s easy on the eye, quiet on the ear and feels soft and warm under foot too.

fabulous and very knowledgeable, talking us through the process before we started and were so professional, hard-working and polite while in our home. I would thoroughly recommend them.”

Mike continued: “The flooring looks so impressive that we’ve had friends who have invested in new Karndean flooring for their own homes after seeing ours!” n For more details and to see how Gainsborough Flooring can transform your home, please contact Vicky Brown on 01772 250682 or email: vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street, Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682 vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

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

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Why choose one destination when you can visit several?

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cruise allows you to watch the world float by as you sail the oceans and take time to explore each port to make you feel truly immersed in the culture and history of each destination. At-sea days can be spent relaxing by the pool or enjoying the many and varied on-board activities and when the sun goes down you can up the glamour with fine dining and sparkling entertainment.

Experience the beauty of Australia and New Zealand in style with Celebrity Cruises, indulge your adventurous self by snorkelling the Great Barrier reef or relax in the onboard spa. Enjoy luxurious staterooms, cuisine and service as you discover Sydney, Dunedin, Napier and cruise through Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound. Enjoy an unparalleled on-board experience full of non-stop entertainment options and globally inspired menus at specialty restaurants.

Canada to Alaska

Western Canada is renowned for its dramatic peaks, beautiful waterfalls and the iconic rail journey, Rocky Mountaineer. Combine this with a Holland America Line cruise from the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver to wild Alaska and discover Glacier Bay National Park and the Inside Passage, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan are all colourful towns with a rich history. Not forgetting the abundant Alaskan wildlife including humpback whales, Stellar sea lions, orcas, otters, and a variety of fish. Holland America Line provide a plethora of onboard activities, five-star dining and award-winning service. Get ready to set sail to Alaska in a comfortable stateroom with an outside veranda perfect for relaxing with a drink watching the scenery pass by.

New Zealand to Australia

Explore Down Under on a cruise immersing you in cosmopolitan cities from Sydney to Auckland and natural wonders from the Great Barrier Reef to Milford Sound.

This is a region full of beautiful scenery, majestic fjords, fine wine and exotic wildlife.

New Zealand to South Pacific The South Pacific is such a vast area made up of islands, making it hard to visit a large portion of the region in one trip, unless you are on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise.

Itineraries will take you from the beaches of Fiji and Bora Bora to the volcanic island of Moorea and onto the bustling city of Auckland. Journey to the seas of the South

GET READY TO SET SAIL TO ALASKA IN A COMFORTABLE STATEROOM WITH AN OUTSIDE VERANDA PERFECT FOR RELAXING WITH A DRINK Pacific as you visit the Bay of Islands, Tahiti, Samoa and discover the Fijian islands of Suva and Lautoka. Regent Seven Seas offers an all-inclusive,luxury cruise including excursions, food and drink. Wake up each morning in a spacious suite to a new perspective from your private balcony. Evenings on board are filled with entertainment including cabaret shows, karaoke and a casino. Relax by the pool during days at sea, compete in a friendly game of trivia or indulge in an afternoon tea with your loved ones.

Caribbean

Discover the individual charms that the Caribbean islands have to offer – explore the English influences of Antigua and the glamour of Barbados, the spice isle of Grenada and the rainforests of St Lucia, the Caribbean awaits you on an intimate SeaDream cruise. Trace the pristine coastline of the British Virgin Islands, snorkel the waters of Puerto Rico and enjoy some of the most secluded ports available. The 56-stateroom twin yachts are modernised, and all offer an ocean view, including an inclusive open bar, Thai-certified spa and world class cuisine, you will be spoilt for choice on how to spend your time at sea.

Explore some of the most intimate parts of the Caribbean, the small ship allows you to travel to St Kitts, Barbuda and Virgin Gorda to name but a few.

Essence of the Canadian Rockies and Alaska Cruise

The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery including the Banff National Park, Lake Louise and the Athabasca Glacier.

There’s no better way to cross them than on one of the world’s best rail journeys – the Rocky Mountaineer. After you’ve enjoyed the journey of a lifetime, board your cruise ship to set sail on Alaska’s icy waters. Discover Alaska’s capital city, Juneau and visit Skagway, famed for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush. n

To find out more about cruise holidays go to: fcholidays.com

CRUISING INTO SUMMER

Above: Kiss Me Kate deep red sequin fitted evening gown £350 Dressed Boutique Huntleys Whalley Road Samlesbury Preston PR5 0UN Opposite page: Diego M long white satin coat £439 michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

Miss June Colorado dress £230 Precious at Whalley 33 King Street Whalley BB7 9SP 01254 822620 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

Merino wool knitwear £129, chinos £119 and trainers £119 all Thomas Maine Hope Menswear 42 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01200 423723 hopestores.co.uk

Dune Tribute zip detail, cup sole trainers £90 dunelondon.com

Miss June Dundas £220 Hope Womenswear First Floor 42 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01200 426293 hopestores.co.uk

Marc Cain dress £449 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk

Riani swimming costume £139 kaftan £145 michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

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

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER OUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES SOUTHPORTS’ FASHION RETAILER PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

2b Lynton Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside PR8 3AN 2b Lynton Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside 2b Lynton PR8 3AN Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside PR8 3AN t: 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e: sales@shawsfashion.co.uk t: 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e:t:sales@shawsfashion.co.uk 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e: sales@shawsfashion.co.uk

fashion

DISCOVER FOOTWEAR YOUR FEET WILL LOVE Do you have a problem finding footwear that fits, that is comfortable and stylish? If so, then perhaps it’s time you paid a visit to fitright footwear and allow us to help you find footwear that fits.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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he professional and friendly fitright footwear team are used to fitting all kinds of different, awkward and hard to fit feet. Our unique, complimentary measuring and fitting service and outstanding product knowledge ensures that our customers are fitted with shoes that are comfortable and fit for purpose.

During your one-to-one appointment you will receive our undivided attention from the moment you step through the door. Our fabulous range of new spring and summer stock has been carefully selected, from a variety of brands, by the fitright team, as our aim is to give everyone a choice of suitable footwear.

At fitright footwear we fully believe that if we walk better, we live better. Now that the weather is improving there is nothing better for our mental and physical health, and general well-being, than getting out and about. It lifts our mood enormously, calms us down and helps us enjoy life more and the best thing is it’s free!

To walk better, wearing the correct footwear is crucial. To walk in shoes or boots that do not fit properly is not good

for your feet. Whether you are taking a trip to town or setting off to walk through the woods, having the right footwear on your feet is so important. Ill-fitting footwear can lead to painful conditions such as corns, hard skin, blisters, Morton’s neuroma and plantar fasciitis. If you suffer from bunions, swollen feet or arthritis these conditions can be made worse simply by wearing the wrong footwear. There is nothing more miserable than having sore and uncomfortable feet.

If your feet are hurting, they are trying to tell you something.

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only your feet but your everyday life.

We also stock a range of accessories to complement our footwear from insoles, soft top socks and waterproof sprays to the Healthy Back Bag – a fabulous ergonomically designed bag, perfect for days out.

Why not ring now and get your feet ready for getting out and about this spring and summer?

Fitright footwear – more than just a shoe shop – we are dedicated to making you think differently about footwear. n Appointments only – available Wednesday to Saturday, between 10am and 5pm

WE FULLY BELIEVE THAT IF WE WALK BETTER, WE LIVE BETTER If any of this resonates with you why not book an appointment and come and see us at fitright footwear? By allowing us to measure your feet, discuss any problems you are experiencing, we can help you select the right the footwear it could make a huge difference to not

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 TM

_fitright

33 KING STREET, WHALLEY, CLITHEROE BB7 9SP WWW.PRECIOUSATWHALLEY.CO.UK 01254 822620

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style of dress in mind – but if they try on a selection, they often change their mind.”

With a collection to suit all budgets and occasions, Eddison can place specific orders or girls can select directly off the rails.

Dressed Boutique has an in-house seamstress so all gowns fit perfectly and the boutique has a unique ‘Prom Promise’ – if you buy your dress from Dressed Boutique they will not sell the same dress to anyone in your school, even in a different size or colour.

BEST DRESSED Looking for the prettiest prom dress of the season? Look no further.

Eddison is also planning a series of An exclusive boutique featuring prom dresses and occasion wear exclusive evenings for specific schools has recently launched in the Ribble Valley. within the area: “We are hoping to start off Photography: Kirsten Platt with Westholme Wednesdays and take it

from there and there will be an opportunity to win a prom dress on social media.”

Always keeping ahead of current trends, the Dressed collection is extensive: “Midnight blue is very popular at the moment along with lots of sequins and sparkle,” says Eddison, who has raised thousands of pounds for Derian House through competing in international beauty pageants.

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lamour abounds at newlylaunched Dressed Boutique – the vision of 19-year-old Eddison Emam, who has travelled the world competing, and winning, international beauty pageants.

Ribble Valley based, this boutique is unique in terms of the international labels that can be seen adorning the rails as well as Eddison’s extensive experience on the pageant circuit.

Dressed Boutique is the only UK stockist of exclusive American brand Ashley Lauren prom dresses and occasion wear, other brands include Australia’s Portia and Scarlett along with UK-based Angel Forever and Kiss Me Kate – a celebrity favourite!

Dressed also features Lavish Alice – a label known for its shorter party and wedding guest dresses.

Buying all year round, Eddison bought much of Dressed Boutique’s current collection in Atlanta, as she explains: “I’ve always sourced my own dresses from the US, shipping them in for competitions, so I have lots of experience.

“I think I have a lot to offer in this business.Young girls think they have got to look a certain way and often lack confidence.

I can offer head to toe advice to build their confidence and choose the right dress for them.

“They often come here with a specific

For any special occasion, call in at Dressed Boutique to meet Eddison and view the beautiful gowns on display.

Many of Dressed Boutique’s labels also feature bridesmaids collections. n

AS THE ONLY UK STOCKIST OF AMERICAN BRAND ASHLEY LAUREN THE BOUTIQUE ALSO FEATURES UK-BASED ANGEL FOREVER AND KISS ME KATE – A CELEBRITY FAVOURITE!

WIN A PROM DRESS! @_dressedboutique Dressed Boutique Huntley’s, Whalley Road Samlesbury PR5 OUN 07393 719950 @_dressedboutique

BARBOUR KORBEL WATERPROOF JACKET IN AMBER GREEN £139 Vareys Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk

ILSE JACOBSEN RAIN71G RAINCOAT £180 Precious 33 King Street Whalley Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 9SP 01254 822620 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

JOULES GOLIGHTLY WATERPROOF JACKET BLOSSOM £44.95 kenvarey.co.uk

APRIL SHOWERS AIGLE PARCOURS 2 WELLINGTON BOOT £149.95 kenvarey.co.uk

Keep warm and dry this spring with these ultimately stylish water-resistant accessories

REGATTA PACK IT JACKET £60 regatta.com

OMEGA AQUA TERRA 150M SMALL SECONDS WATCH £5610 Leonard Dews Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

JOYA WATERPROOF WALKING BOOTS FOR MEN & WOMEN FROM £185 fitrightfootwear.co.uk

OMEGA AQUA TERRA 150M SMALL SECONDS WATCH £5420 leonarddews.co.uk

BARBOUR PORTREE UMBRELLA £32.95 kenvarey.co.uk

MARC CAIN RAINCOAT £465 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk JOYA WATERPROOF WALKING TRAINER FOR MEN & WOMEN FROM £180 Fitright Footwear 32D King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399 fitrightfootwear.co.uk

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

FIND US ON… Live Ribble Valley @Live_RV /liveribblevalley Live Preston & Fylde @Live_PF /liveprestonfylde issuu.com/live_magazines

www.live-magazines.co.uk

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researching the concept of LANX and the direction he wanted the company to go: “I visited 10 countries and had an incredible adventure,” he says. “I was especially inspired by the talented shoemakers I came across in Tokyo – the majority I visited were deeply traditional and skilled at making shoes by hand, which inspired me hugely.”

NEW STORES, NEW COLLECTIONS, SAME QUALITY Entering their fifth year in business, LANX are continuing to grow with a bigger team, larger premises, a Manchester shop and new exciting collections and events planned for 2022. Gail Bailey speaks to owner Marco Vaghetti to find out more

F

ounded in May 2018 by former events co-ordinator Marco Vaghetti, LANX are a Lancashire footwear brand, proudly working with small independent shoemakers to create handmade brogues, boots and sneakers. The focus is on business-casual shoes that are sturdy, elegant and perfect for working hard, playing hard

and looking good on any occasion: “We pride ourselves on the individuality and quality of our designs and on using only the finest leather and British sourced textiles, with each shoe stamped with the Lancashire Rose and our own British White Bull,” Marco explains.

Marco travelled extensively while

WE HAVE CONTINUED TO GROW, AND ALONGSIDE OPENING A NEW WAREHOUSE SHOP IN WHALLEY WE HAVE A NEW SHOP IN MANCHESTER’S BUZZING NORTHERN QUARTER The expertise Marco witnessed has transferred into the ethos at LANX and the company work with different factories to ensure the best craftsmanship is sourced for each specific style of shoe.

In a short space of time LANX have doubled their staff and expanded the business both at their original shop in Whalley and with a new store now open in Manchester: “We have continued to grow, and alongside opening a new warehouse shop in Whalley we have a new shop in Manchester’s buzzing Northern Quarter,” says Marco. “The two new premises, along with exciting new collections, continue to drive forward our individuality, high quality and style.”

Recently holding a launch day for the new warehouse shop in Whalley, LANX saw people from all over the UK attend – some travelling up to five hours to be the first to visit the expanded premises and meet the team behind this unique brand.

“The launch event in March was a huge success and so good to see our large UK

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customer base visiting us along with many new customers. We ship all over the world, with a lot of our overseas following having an ancestry link to the Ribble Valley and Lancashire.”

WE SHIP ALL OVER THE WORLD, WITH A LOT OF OUR OVERSEAS FOLLOWING HAVING AN ANCESTRY LINK TO THE RIBBLE VALLEY There are more events to come with the pop-up LANX Shoe Shed attending summer events all over the country: “We will be travelling up and down the country over the summer events season, and will be at Royal Lancashire Show, the Goodwood Revival and down at the Big Feastival along with 40 other events,” Marco explains.

When LANX was first founded the company only focused their designs on men’s shoes – but as they rapidly became established they developed a strong female

WEDDING FOOTWEAR EVENTS WHAT WHEN WHERE

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GROUP DISCOUNTS UP TO 15% OFF FREE BEER ON US 17 & 23 APRIL 10AM - 4PM

following too: “We had a lot of women buying our men’s shoes, so we quickly realised we needed to create similar shoes but with a specific female fit.”

These have been immensely popular and the female following has risen, with LANX having just launched 16 fabulous new styles.

A collection of new styles for both men and women has been recently launched, including the expansions of the ever-popular sneaker range.

Throughout April there will also be wedding footwear events at the LANX Whalley warehouse shop: “The whole of your wedding party are invited on the 17th and 23rd April to browse, chat and view all our latest men’s and women’s footwear,” Marv says. “Enjoy group discounts plus a few beers on us!”

For quality, smart casual footwear that takes you from the ‘boardroom to the bar’ look no further than LANX. n

UNIT 29-30 MITTON RD W H A L L E Y, B B 7 9 Y E LANX Unit 29-30, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 7 Oak Street, Manchester M4 5JD hello@lanxshoes.com lanxshoes.com

This unique collection, hand-crafted in Paris, is made from completely natural products such as leather and stone Each pair of Lucas De Stael glasses takes 30 steps to produce from start to finish and can be crafted individually to each customer’s specification For the first time ever, try on the entire collection using virtual try-on technology

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DRUNK ELEPHANT THE LITTLES 4.0 £65 Take a #drunkbreak by using this exclusively to reset your skin to a healthy, balanced, and truly glowing state. Includes 30ml Beste™ No. 9 Jelly cleanser, 8ml C-Firma™ day serum, 8ml B-Hydra™ intensive hydration serum, 8ml T.L.C. Framboos™ glycolic night serum, 8ml Virgin Marula luxury facial oil, 15ml Protini™ polypeptide cream, 15ml Umbra Sheer™ Physical daily defense SPF 30, 5ml C-Tango™ multivitamin eye cream spacenk.com

ULTRASUN LIP PROTECTION SPF30 £8 Shield and protect the lips from cracking and damage caused

by UV rays in hot or cold temperatures. ultrasun.co.uk

ON THE GO These little luxury travel essentials will keep skin soft and hair ultra-shiny ALBUS AND FLORA BOTANICAL LIP CARE £16 Award-winning, high performance SPF30 lip care blends pure botanicals with modern UVA/UVB filters, to hydrate and protect against sun damage, fine lines and loss of lip fullness. Five shades available in clinic. discoverlaser.co.uk

ELEMIS TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR HER £65 Includes 100ml sea lavender and samphire bath and shower milk, 20g pro-collagen cleansing balm, 50ml soothing apricot toner, 14 cellular recovery Skin Bliss capsules, 15ml pro-collagen marine cream, 15ml pro-collagen oxygenating night cream. randrspa.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

PHILIP KINGLSEY SMOOTH & SHINY JET SET £30 The perfect travel sized hair products to manage frizzy, wavy or curly hair on the go. Includes 75ml elasticizer, 75ml re-moisturising shampoo and 75ml re-moisturising conditioner. philipkinglsey.co.uk

HELIOCARE 360 AGE ACTIVE FLUID £32.99 A light, hydrating fluid providing high-level, broad-spectrum protection plus a triple anti-ageing complex. discoverlaser.co.uk EVE LOM TRAVEL ESSENTIALS SET £38 Stowaway sizes of the cult favourite, multi-tasking skin care products. Includes 20ml cleanser, 8ml moisture cream, 10ml mini essence and muslin cloth. evelom.co.uk

NU FACE PREP-N-GLOW CLOTHS £19 Exfoliate and cleanse skin in one go with these dual-sided cleansing cloths, made from soft cotton lace that is gentle on the skin while providing maximum benefits. spacenk.com

SUMMER SKIN UNCOVERED As we shed the winter layers and uncover our skin, it usually needs a little care and attention, but have you ever considered a thorough skin health check?

DR. ARIF ASLAM

CONSULTANT DERMATOLOGIST

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fter months of cold temperatures and central heating, it’s a delight to pack the winter woollies away, wear lighter clothes and head out into the sun, but we usually need to give our winter-worn skin a little TLC first.

Exfoliators are the order of the day to slough off dead skin, followed by moisturisers to get skin glowing, and sunscreen to keep it healthy and protected. But dry skin might not be the only thing on your mind as you uncover your skin for summer.

When you’ve exposed your skin to the sun over the years, the appearance of new moles, or changes to existing ones, can be a concern.

And it’s not easy to figure out what’s okay and what isn’t, and any on your back can be challenging to spot and self-examine.

Add to that the difficulty in getting moles checked by your GP, who may or may not be experienced in dermatology and unable to do a full skin check, and the worry can escalate.

A simple mole check by a qualified skin specialist provides peace of mind.

But what’s involved? Dr Arif Aslam, Consultant Dermatologist, explains.

“We’re all used to regular health checks such as cervical screenings, mammograms and prostate checks, but getting a skin check is not on as many people’s radar, and it’s an equally important part of looking after your health and wellbeing.

“A Dermatologist can give you a comprehensive mole check, examining your skin thoroughly for anything that requires further investigation. They will provide you with a full and detailed explanation of any issues regarding your moles or lesions, reassuring you and discussing next steps - this may be a biopsy and any necessary treatment.

WE’RE ALL USED TO REGULAR HEALTH CHECKS SUCH AS CERVICAL SCREENINGS, MAMMOGRAMS AND PROSTATE CHECKS, BUT GETTING A SKIN CHECK IS NOT ON AS MANY PEOPLE’S RADAR. And you will be given plenty of time to talk through any concerns and ask questions.”

“While most moles and lesions are harmless, getting them checked is a reassuring investment for the health of your skin and your peace of mind. Expert eyes can spot anything suspicious, ensure it is diagnosed correctly, and, if necessary, treat it before it becomes too serious.

As a recent patient of Dr Aslam describes:

I CANNOT THANK DR ASLAM ENOUGH FOR HIS WORK AND THE VERY THOROUGH DIAGNOSIS...

I INTEND TO SEE [HIM] FOR CONSULTATIONS ON A REGULAR BASIS FOR SKIN CANCER CHECKS IN FUTURE. “[Discover Laser] is a modern, relaxing and professional clinic in a lovely location, which lacked any intimidating features of a hospital environment. All of the staff were friendly and professional, and it was a pleasure to spend time there.

“My initial consultation with Dr Aslam was the most thorough medical examination

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

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I have ever had... he undertook a wholebody examination to check for cancers and identified two more basal cell carcinomas (which I had never even noticed) on my face.

“I could not be more happy with the surgeries Dr Aslam has undertaken and the results, which are excellent, not least in removing the carcinomas but also there not being any noticeable scarring. He is exceptionally skilled. I cannot thank Dr Aslam enough for his work and the very thorough diagnosis... I intend to see [him] for consultations on a regular basis for skin cancer checks in future.”

As you prepare your skin for summer, consider having any moles, lumps or bumps checked by a skin spceialist. The best thing you can hear is “there’s nothing to worry about”, or prompt action can be taken if a problem is identified.■ Book your MOLE CHECK for £200, by calling Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 To learn more about the clinic and their treatments, you’ll find lots of information at discoverlaser.co.uk

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health&beauty

MIND MAT TERS

people. Hardworking people fail and lazy people succeed. We lose loved ones far too early, or the love of our life may leave us for someone else.

THE TRUTH IS GOOD THINGS HAPPEN TO BAD PEOPLE AND BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE

Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes advises that learning to accept, is the key to a happy life

M

any years ago, I had a boss who, when I was complaining about a customer cancelling an order or me not hitting a target, he would say, ‘Who told you, life was going to be fair or easy?’

Little did he or I know at that time, just how insightful that question was. Pain and suffering is something that connects us all and none of us are immune. Accepting this is key to happiness.

The truth is good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good

We will all have challenges and tough times, that is more or less guaranteed and we can’t always control it. Psychologists have termed the ‘just world myth’ as being the belief that if I am good, try my hardest and treat others well, bad things won’t happen to me!

What we can control is how we respond – how we frame what has happened and move on. However many times we revisit the past it is always the same, nothing changes.

We focus on the could have, should have, would have. It is a dead-end that blocks the road ahead and traps us in the past.

Whilst we are stuck in the pain and in the unfairness, we take away that opportunity for future happiness and we need to ask ourselves is that what we want? We do have a choice and we need to move away from our view of fairness and injustice and take back control. There has to be a level of acceptance for us to become ‘unstuck’ and move on.

The past is the past and it is beyond our control but what we can control is how we

view it and how we respond. With support, we can take back control and sail into calmer waters and a brighter future. However, beware that this work can take time and commitment – are you prepared to invest time in you and your future happiness.

During the pandemic I came across a podcast called Slo Mo. Mo Gawdett is an inspirational man. He is a former CBO for Google X, whose son died at the age of 21 during what should have been a routine appendectomy. He made a choice that rather than live a life of sadness and regret, he chose to celebrate the years he had with his son and not yearn for the ones he had missed. He accepted and made peace with what had happened. I can see how empowered he was by this incredibly difficult choice and how much good he has done by sharing his experience with others.

ACCEPTANCE IS A SUPER-POWER AND THE CONDUIT TO HAPPINESS. ACCEPTING LIFE’S UNFAIRNESS WILL SET YOU FREE Acceptance is a super-power and the conduit to happiness. Accepting life’s unfairness will set you free. If you feel that you have been wronged or lost someone or something very special, it can be very hard to move on and let go. A professional coach/counsellor can support you on this journey. n To find out if therapeutic coaching could help you, call Lynn at focus101 on 07753 579745 or visit: focus101.co.uk

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GET YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS BACK SAFELY As the summer approaches and world travel opens up, it really is the ideal time to focus on achieving youthful looks lines, marionette lines, smile lines, frown lines and more, the Hyapen is unquestionably perfect for a natural looking alternative to invasive injectable fillers.

WHAT CLIENTS SAY…

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ith non-invasive, scientifically proven technology from EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd, you can rediscover your youthful looks.

Emma Pearce is a highly skilled and experienced aesthetic skin specialist with extensive advanced training in skincare.

Totally amazing results have been achieved for several years with the extremely popular PlasmaPen and the revolutionary non-invasive Hyapen.

With the focus entirely on ensuring you remain looking like you, the non-invasive treatments can be used in combination to achieve natural youthful looking skin, both safely and effectively.

PlasmaPen

Emma has accomplished 100 per cent satisfaction from her clients with the PlasmaPen treatments.

Emma explains: “My clients have been completely delighted with the results of the PlasmaPen. It is superb for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the lips, crow’s feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids, chest lines and more.

“Making these astounding improvements to your skin helps boost self-confidence, and you’re never too old to make them.”

“I had aged overnight. One morning I woke up, looked in the mirror and realised I had all of a sudden aged so much. It was such a shock and affected my confidence. I can honestly say it’s been the best decision I’ve made this year. 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.

Emma continues: “For those afraid of needles and invasive treatments, it’s ideal to be able to offer non-invasive and natural looking fillers to my clients.

The Hyapen is so effective and due to its natural presence in our bodies as a hydrating substance, hyaluronic acid is extremely advantageous in providing the moisture levels needed for youthful hydration and texture.

The results are astounding and instantly give a much more natural appearance than injectable fillers. There’s no numbing nor downtown required. The treatment restores a beautiful natural plumpness to your lips and mouth area.”

Emma has spent 21 years in the industry and has gained a phenomenal amount of experience, knowledge and skill during her skincare career, and stresses the importance of being treated only by those who have the capability and expertise to treat people safely, respectfully and effectively.

Emma is renowned for providing the highest level of care and treatments in conjunction with results that clients have been absolutely delighted with. n

Hyapen

For those looking for a noninvasive volumiser for lips,smokers’

SPECIAL OFFERS!

PlasmaPen treatments start from £250 per area. Emma is offering Live readers £175 off the price of each area until 1st June 2022!

Non-invasive, Hyapen filler starts from £200. Emma is offering Live readers 20% off until 1st June 2022.

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

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Red onions, citrus, berries and green vegetables contain quercetin – a potent antioxidant which helps to calm the skin as it inhibits the release of histamines.

Keep hydrated by drinking water and avoid foods and drink that cause inflammation.

These include alcohol and spicy foods as both cause flushing and heat in the skin.

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM COVID SKIN? If your skin is unusually irritated, you can help calm and desensitize it by eating vitamin-rich foods and using mild and soothing balms

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esearchers at King’s College, London, have identified three specific types of rashes linked to Covid – including inflammation, hives, prickly heat and chilblains – alongside long-term, ongoing tiredness.

Many dermatologists and aestheticians now refer to this as ‘Covid skin’ to differentiate the condition from any conventional skin irritation. It includes the appearance of a general rash, rosacea and sensitised skin,

alongside severe itching and irritation,burning and even flaking of the skin – where there have been no serious concerns previously.

How to calm Covid skin

We recommend that you use gentle skin care products such as mild cleansing oils (try Medik8’s Lipid Balance Cleansing Oil, Medik8 Calmwise Soothing Cleanser or Soothing Cleansing Balm by Nourish) hydrating serums such as hyaluronic acid (try Medik8 Hydr8B5) and nurturing moisturisers (Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream).

Avoid any exfoliators (acids or peels) and chemical products until the skin has returned to normal.

Alleviate Covid skin symptoms from within Eat foods rich in natural oils, Omega 3 and B vitamins. Oily fish, salmon, nuts, seeds, beans and avocados are nature’s natural moisturisers and will help to nourish your skin.

Inflammation of the skin is linked to gut health, which at a time of illness can be out of balance. Adding probiotics, found in yogurt, kefir, kimchi and kombucha will help. Prebiotics support the formation of probiotics – include bananas, asparagus and garlic to ensure that you have a good supply.

And finally, add supplements to alleviate irritation. COLLAGEN SHOTS is a high potency collagen drink which will help soothe and repair skin. SKIN PERFECTING COMPLEX has been specifically formulated to destress agitated skin and IMMUNE COMPLEX will help to populate the gut with healthy bacteria.

Melt are stockists of Medk8 & Dr. Hauschka skincare and REJUVENATED skincare supplements (loyalty cards and GWP available across the ranges). n For further help or a consultation please contact: 01200 443377 or ask in store 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

B

eauty expert Angela Kay has forged a reputation for industry-leading technology and world-class treatments.

At her two salons located in the Ribble Valley and Accrington, Angela has invested in the very best equipment in terms of laser treatments, microblading and her recent qualification as a masterclass technician in wrinkle-smoothing injections, puts her among the top beauty professionals.

To herald the start of spring Angela has a number of beauty treatments that will achieve a beach-ready body and smooth, glowing skin.

Her Accrington salon has been totally remodelled to make it super glamorous and Insta-ready as she explains: “It was inspired by a recent trip to Dubai where Tiffany Blue featured everywhere. It’s a beautiful shade so I decided to use it along with white to give the salon a fresh new look.”

The team at the Accrington salon, including nail technicians Rachel and Laura, are really loving the latest new look: “I wanted it to be totally ‘Instagramable’ so that people will take pictures when they visit us and post them on social media,” adds Angela.

MICROBLADING

NEW TREATMENTS AND A STAR VISIT! Offering some of the most scientifically advanced technology, Angela Kay is leading the way in delivering revitalising and rejuvenating beauty treatments. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Coronation Street and Benidorm actress Sherrie Hewson put her trust in Angela when she visited the Ribble Valley salon recently for a microblading session that resulted in perfect brows!

A delighted Sherrie, who admitted to being somewhat nervous before the procedure, showed off her brows on social media, saying: “Before I had no brows really at all, well they were silver grey. Now, they frame my face, it didn’t hurt – I actually love them! Maybe next time a might have them a bit darker because I’ve not been very brave this time.

health&beauty

“So, come to AK Brows – but you must have them done by Angela. She has 23 years’ experience and that means everything to somebody like me.”

ELYSION

Offering some of the most scientifically advanced technology, Angela delivers the hugely successful Elysion laser hair removal system that leaves skin silky smooth.

A favourite among celebrities, the Elysion system is far superior and stronger than IPL treatments – it delivers high energy to the hair follicle without damaging the skin and, thanks to a revolutionary continuous ‘crystal freeze’ cooling system, the procedure is pain free and requires fewer sessions than IPL. It is suitable for ALL skin types and it can treat ANY area. After seven days the hair will fall out and while multiple treatments are required, the system does allow shaving in between treatments!

Angela says: “I have been offering Elysion for a number of years and it is an absolutely incredible treatment, my clients love it – it is so popular!”

To benefit from Elysion, a half-hour consultation is required with one of the laser therapists who will explain the procedure and carry out a skin test. Delivering this revolutionary treatment are Angela, Jennie, Chantelle and Lauren – the latest addition to the four-strong team of laser therapists.

SEVENTY HYAL 2000

A revolutionary new treatment, Angela Kays

can now offer clients this amazing skin booster that rejuvenates, revives and rehydrates. Seventy Hyal delivers hyaluronic acid deep into the dermis layer enabling the skin to receive the entirety of the active ingredients, as opposed to applying topical moisturisers, which sit on the skin’s surface and are unable to penetrate the

BEFORE I HAD NO BROWS REALLY AT ALL, WELL THEY WERE SILVER GREY. NOW, THEY FRAME MY FACE, IT DIDN’T HURT – I ACTUALLY LOVE THEM!

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at optimum levels these vitamins are available in injectable form, giving you an instant boost!

While many people take supplements in tablet form, some of the efficacy is lost – an injection once every three to six months goes straight into your system. n Angela is always delighted to speak with new clients to explain treatments and the exclusive special offers available. For more information you can call her or go to: angelakays.co.uk

epidermis layer. Seventy Hyal is a noninvasive treatment which also improves skin texture and volume by replenishing naturally occurring hyaluronic acid, which boosts and maintains hydration. As the hyaluronic acid is delivered into the dermis, exactly where it is needed, it also promotes collagen and elastic production, giving instant, radiant results. Treatment cost is £200 per session and it is recommended to have one treatment per month for three months, then every six to 12 months.

VITAMIN D & B12

Essential to get our body and mind working EXCLUSIVE ELYSION OFFER! Book six sessions of the revolutionary Elysion laser hair removal system and get TWO sessions absolutely FREE! angelakays.co.uk

Angela Kay’s Beauty Salon 46 Warner Street Accrington BB5 1HN Angela Kay’s Brockhall Village 07813 195888 angelakays.co.uk aklaser.co.uk akbrows.com

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

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health&beauty

SUMMER READY Make sure your legs are summer-ready at RejuvaMed’s varicose vein treatment centre in Clitheroe

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s we finally say goodbye to winter and look forward to warmer summer months ahead, many of us will finally be able to head abroad for that long-awaited holiday in the sun, so now is the ideal time to deal with troublesome varicose veins, which may be affecting your confidence.

The team at RejuvaMed Health & Wellness can help.

Based at the historic Holmes Mill in Clitheroe, RejuvaMed incorporates the only dedicated varicose vein treatment centre in Lancashire. The vein centre has built a nationwide reputation for quality care and exceptional results and has established itself as the leading provider of varicose vein treatment in the North West, at prices way below Lancashire’s private hospitals.

Consultant vascular surgeon Mr Vittorio Perricone is our local expert who will look after you when you are with us.

Mr Perricone has worked both within the NHS and privately for more than 25 years and undertakes his NHS practice at the Royal Blackburn Hospital.

He now consults privately, solely at RejuvaMed. Dr Grant McKeating, RejuvaMed’s medical director, explains: “Funding for treatment for varicose veins has been rationed by the NHS, meaning that patients often have to pay for their procedure. Where NHS

treatment is available, waiting lists are now through the roof because of Covid-19. We are therefore pleased to provide safe, relatively painless treatments with excellent results and minimal recovery time.

“Our appointments are available within just a few weeks, meaning you can get the treatment you need quickly. We don’t have the same overheads as large private hospitals, so we can offer the same treatment for up to £2500 less. That’s a huge saving.

“There is no need to undergo expensive and risky surgery under required to wear compression stockings afterwards, meaning you can return to normal activities immediately.

In UK clinics and hospitals this treatment is typically offered at a price of over £3000. However, RejuvaMed has priced this treatment at only £2410 for one leg and £2725 for both. n

general anaesthesia if you wish to say goodbye to your varicose veins, or to travel further afield for your treatment. We welcome patients with private medical insurance and are approved by the major private health insurers.

We also offer interest free credit, with repayments easily affordable over 10 months.”

As well as offering radiofrequency (RF) ablation treatment for varicose veins, the vein centre also offers the innovative VenaSeal™ procedure, which uses a medical adhesive rather than a heat source to seal the diseased vein. A small cut is made into the skin under local anaesthetic and a narrow

plastic tube is placed into the vein.

A long catheter is then inserted through this sheath and small amounts of adhesive are then injected at intervals along the vein under ultrasound guidance.

Once the procedure is complete (which may be in as little as 20 minutes), an adhesive plaster is applied over the small cut, and you are immediately able to be up and about.

The procedure is quicker and more comfortable than RF and laser ablation, both during and after treatment, as there are fewer injections required and there is less bruising. A huge benefit of VenaSeal™ over other treatments is that you are not

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

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness Holmes Cottage, Woone Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668 www.rejuvamed.co.uk

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of cake. A PT or coach is always there at every session and in between sessions they are with you, encouraging you to help you achieve your goal.

Regardless, if it’s losing weight, toning up or getting in shape for that special occasion, our job is to make sure you stay on track.

BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND Starting a fitness routine or even re-starting a regime that you’ve been working on previously can always be daunting, explains personal trainer Daniel Masters

W

hen we start a fitness routine, we often wonder if what we are doing is the right thing to do, and many of us set off without the slightest idea of even how to begin.

IT CAN BE SCARY

I’ve lost track of the times I’ve heard, ‘I’ve never been to a gym before’ or ‘I used to go before having the kids’ and even, ‘you wouldn’t believe this but I used to be in really good shape’.

If this sounds like you take solace in the fact, that you aren’t alone.

As you’ve just read, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve spoken to, and helped people, just like yourself.

That’s why it helps to go somewhere that has people who know exactly what to do, to not only get you back on track or even on track for the first time, but also to keep you on track.

we make all at once and this can actually be our downfall – especially if you don’t have someone to help keep you on track, someone to be accountable to, someone to pick you up when you fall down.

THAT’S WHERE WE COME IN Having a PT or coach isn’t like going to the gym with your mate – when you both can’t be bothered and you just bail, or your co-worker is offering you another piece

A PT OR COACH IS ALWAYS THERE AT EVERY SESSION AND IN BETWEEN SESSIONS THEY ARE WITH YOU, ENCOURAGING YOU TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOAL If you’re struggling with motivation, accountability or consistency or even if you are a total beginner and terrified you don’t know where to start – we can help.

Call today and book your free consultation or visit the website and just drop us a consultation request. n

FREE 30 MINUTE PERSONAL TRAINING SESSION When you submit a consultation form online – limited to one per person Offer ends 31st May 2022

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

Ask yourself how many times you’ve started a diet or any type of healthy living plan and it’s just fell to pieces?

It probably wasn’t all your fault. When we try to make changes it’s often major changes

Masters Fitness Brockhall Village Old Langho, Blackburn BB6 8AY 01254 313322 mastersfitness.co.uk

Lee Hunt: Heart Nebula – Pendle

CELESTIAL B E A U T Y

F

rom the winter constellation of Orion to the magical sight of a meteor shower and the fabulous sweep of the Milky Way, the skies above Bowland are filled with wonder – and look amazing when captured on camera.

The Forest of Bowland AONB Partnership and Clitheroe Castle Museum are celebrating the area’s celestial beauty with a special exhibition. And as part of the fourth Bowland Dark Skies Festival, they invited people to submit their very own night-sky photographs for inclusion.

Manager of Clitheroe Castle Museum, Claire Sutton, explains: “We have a fantastic gallery space here at the museum and we’re really excited to be hosting this brand-new exhibition.”

Images taken by amateur and experienced photographers have been selected for the exhibition and are truly stunning.

Dark skies expert and photographer Robert Ince, who is showing his work in the exhibition, has been involved in developing various Dark Skies projects in Bowland

from the start, running workshops for tourism businesses, raising awareness about light pollution and delivering a range of stargazing and night sky photography courses as part of Festival Bowland.

Speaking about the exhibition Robert says: “In the Forest of Bowland we are so lucky to have amazing, relatively light pollutionfree skies and with the abundance of local photographical talent we have enjoyed some amazing astro-photography as part of the exhibition. The standard has been so high, featuring the Milky Way, galaxies, meteors, star trails and more.

“My own shots were all taken in the Gisburn forest area with a Canon DSLR and a wide angle lens but you can even take similar images with a smartphone!”

Hetty Byrne, Sustainable Tourism Officer with the Forest of Bowland adds: “We’re lucky to have such dark skies here in Bowland and it’s great when people take the opportunity to get out and enjoy them.

We hope this exhibition will help to show just how special Bowland is once the sun has set – and how important it is that we help to keep it that way.”

Brenda Hempton: Stars over a lone tree on Longridge Fell, with a person walking with a torch through the heather

A fabulous exhibition featuring images of the night sky above Bowland can currently be seen at Clitheroe Castle

WE HAVE ENJOYED SOME AMAZING ASTRO-PHOTOGRAPHY AS PART OF THE EXHIBITION. THE STANDARD HAS BEEN SO HIGH, FEATURING THE MILKY WAY, GALAXIES, METEORS AND STAR TRAILS Truly dark skies are becoming increasingly rare as light pollution from towns and cities dilutes the blackness of night obscuring the stars for much of the population.

In 21st century Britain, many town and city dwellers may never have seen the Milky Way – our home galaxy – and will only catch the faintest glimpse of a handful of the brightest stars.

lifestyle

Chris Jones: Andy Goldsworthy sculptures on Clougha

The night skies over Bowland have been recognised as some of the darkest in England and on a clear cloud-free and ideally moonless night, the skies become home to all manner of legendary figures and mythical beasts. This is the domain of Pegasus, the winged horse, Taurus the bull, Orion the hunter and Andromeda, a beautiful princess.

And as well as these characters in the sky, there’s a whole host of other heavenly objects to look at. Many of the earth’s companion planets in the solar system are visible at various times of the year, as are more distant objects like the Orion Nebula and the Great Galaxy in Andromeda.

While the winter months, when the nights are longer and the skies are darker, tend to be the best time to stargaze, events like the Perseids meteor shower can be seen in mid-August, when observers can see dozens of shooting stars an hour, making a real celestial spectacle.

The Forest of Bowland AONB has five designated Dark Sky Discovery sites that include Beacon Fell Country Park and Gisburn Forest Hub. Speaking about the exhibition Sandra Silk of the Forest of Bowland AONB, adds: “The standard of entries for our first Bowland Dark Skies Exhibition with Clitheroe Castle Museum has been so impressive. The photographers have captured such a fantastic range of images, from nebulae to brooding, fell-top sculptures – no easy feat given the unpredictability of the weather here in Bowland. The Stewards Gallery at the Castle will be a great setting for them.” n The Dark Skies Exhibition at Clitheroe Castle will run until late May and admission to the gallery is free forestofbowland.com

Robert Ince: Gisburn hub path to the heavens

FROM THE CONSTELLATION OF ORION TO THE MAGICAL SIGHT OF A METEOR SHOWER, THE SKIES ABOVE BOWLAND ARE FILLED WITH WONDER

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Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic and oil paint, charcoal, graphite, pastels and chalks) or anything else that comes to hand – object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts or micro shredded banknotes.

‘Wait, it will reveal itself’ – 20x20cm Box Canvas Billboard poster collage and dry transfer letters

He considers the canvas to be a part of the artwork and not just the substrate, so often manipulates the canvas by stitching it together, cutting or ripping it, sanding the surface, spot varnishing elements, also embedding or inserting objects through the surface – to bring another dimension to his artworks.

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

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

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E S TAT E L I F E

tour of a lodge and the estate

Gisburne Park Estate don’t hesitate to get in touch is owned and managed with my brother-in-law Charlie charlie@gisburneparkestate.co.uk

by Guy Hindley and his wife Amber, who OUR BESPOKE are converting it into LODGES START a thriving tourist AT AROUND destination £240,000

O

ur gorgeous walled garden outdoor pool is heated and open again on Ribblesdale Park, which means it’s finally spring. And if you were in any doubt about it there are over 800 lambs running about the place already! The deer have nearly all lost their antlers, wild garlic is sprouting everywhere and the migratory birds are returning, change is afoot.

If you’re in the market for a bespoke lodge we have a new show home arriving shortly, which you will be able to view.

Demand is exceptionally high these days – post pandemic, we are really enjoying welcoming new owners to the estate. Our bespoke lodges start at around £240,000 and come from Lissett Lodges, probably the best manufacturer in the UK. We are excited to announce that we have ordered five more units all to come in the first half of 2022. In order to arrange a private

The new menu for Hindelinis will be launched shortly. Please keep an eye on our website for that. I am pleased to say Hindelinis is currently hitting its mission statement with flying colours. Our aim is to create a fun atmosphere and cook the classics using local, high quality, Lancashire produce while maintaining an exciting, seasonal and varied specials board to keep everyone interested.

Our Thursday Club has an unbelievable line up of local,

live music and events for you all to enjoy. As soon as it’s warm enough we will be enjoying live music outside in the Hindelinis Garden – we will keep you posted on when that will be.

Another holiday cottage has recently been renovated by Amber to an exceptional level, complete with a new garden by the ever-talented John from

Holden Clough Nurseries and there is a large sumptuous hot tub and fire pit. We are close to completing two other gorgeous cottage refurbishments as we continue to develop our self-catering portfolio across the estate. n THURSDAY NIGHT LINE UP 21st APRIL – QUIZ NIGHT 28th APRIL – GINJAMMERS 12th MAY – PHILIP HALLIWELL 26th MAY – LUCAS WYATT Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300 gisburnepark.com

For all updates go to: @gisburneparkestate

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THE IMPORTANCE OF LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY

It is never too soon to set up Lasting Powers of Attorney, advises Jane Burbridge of Forbes Solicitors

T

he pandemic has brought to light the importance of having measures in place to enable your family to access and manage your finances in the unfortunate case that you are unable to do so yourself.

It’s not an easy conversation to have but it really does pay to plan ahead and set up Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) sooner rather than later. Not just for the

instances that you or someone you love is diagnosed with a progressive illness such as dementia in later life, but earlier on in your life too.

Research shows that 65 per cent of us think our next-of-kin will make medical and care decisions for us if we are no longer able to. That is not the case without a Health and Welfare LPA being in place, this enables them to make decisions about social care issues and medical treatment, including life sustaining treatment. Unfortunately, it is estimated only 22 per cent of people in the UK have an LPA. There are not only problems dealing with your personal finances and making medical and care decisions, what about the business you are involved with?

Most businesses have undergone crisis management – identifying and preparing for probable risks, such as floods, computer hacks or theft. However, fewer businesses consider preparations for significant business decision-makers being incapacitated.

Without a business LPA in place, certain risks arise. For example, if one of the bank account signatories lacks capacity, the bank could freeze the account. If there is an overdraft, the possibility of the bank freezing the account is greater. Contracts entered by a person who had capacity but now lacks it, may become unenforceable owing to their incapacity. Paying creditors, employees or tax becomes difficult as does running the business generally with a businessperson who now lacks capacity. Investors may require

their investments to be returned.

The time to consider making LPAs – for personal finances, health and welfare or business – is when you are fit and able. It is never too soon to make an LPA. However, if something happens which results in you losing your mental capacity, it is too late.

IT’S NOT AN EASY CONVERSATION TO HAVE BUT IT REALLY DOES PAY TO PLAN AHEAD AND SET UP LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY (LPA) SOONER RATHER THAN LATER An application would then need to be made to the Court of Protection to have a deputy appointed.You would have no say in who applies to be your deputy, the process may take months or longer and, in the case of a business, during that time the business is exposed to uncertainty of survival.

At Forbes Solicitors we can help guide you through the steps of making a Lasting Power of Attorney to help you decide what would happen if you could not make decisions for yourself and needed support managing your affairs. n

Jane Burbidge, Partner in Wills, Tax, Trust & Probate 01772 220156 jane.burbidge@forbessolicitors.co.uk

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01254 580 000

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

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lifestyle

HOME TRUTHS

T

he atrocities of the Ukraine war fill our media daily and I watch in disbelief how inhumane and cruel Russian troops are towards civilians in towns throughout the country.

I fear things will get much worse before they get better – but President Putin has blood-stained hands and must be brought before international courts to answer for his crimes. This is his war and he must not win or be allowed to get away with appalling acts of violence and the execution of innocent people.

I visited Qatar to attend the annual spring forum, where President Zelensky Zoomed into the conference hall to speak to delegates from several countries. His request for assistance and increasing sanctions against the Putin regime were met with acclamation. The conference spoke of other world issues including spiralling energy costs. Qatar

is moving in the right direction on democracy whilst Russia ignores it. At least there is some hope in some parts of the world whilst dark clouds hover over others.

I met a politician from another far-flung territory, which had also faced invasion from a foreign neighbour – The Falklands. The Honourable Leona Roberts was telling me of their preparations to commemorate 40 years since the start of the Falklands war – there is to be a service in Westminster to mark the occasion.

I went to see an old chum of mine, wit and raconteur, Gyles Brandreth on the stage in London. He was simply incredible in his energetic one-man show and in the second half, his Ukraine jumper was worn to great effect, which will be auctioned to support Ukraine charities.

As a brief warning, I was shocked to find that someone has started a fake Instagram account in my name with attempts to get my unwitting followers to invest in a crypto currency scam. Please be aware that scammers are out there – if it doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t!

Pupils came from Barrow School to visit Parliament and it was wonderful talking with them. They were full of ideas – high on

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans visits a spring forum in Qatar, meets his old chum Gyles Brandreth and is shocked to discover that someone has set up a fake Instagram account in his name

their list was to tackle too much housebuilding and the speed of cars through our villages. I think we may have a few future MPs in Barrow!

Three cheers to the Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, for allowing visitors to Westminster to tour the State Apartments which he presides over. This is the first time it has ever been open for tours and I heartily recommend it.

Finally, I visited Windsor Castle to watch HRH Prince Edward present new colours to the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. It was the first time I have ever witnessed such a presentation and it was full of pomp in the most glorious of settings.

I spoke with Prince Edward after the ceremony and he was surprised when I told him I was celebrating 30 years as an MP this month.

It has been a huge privilege for me representing you in Parliament and when I raise a glass of wine at the Speaker’s celebration dinner it will be to say thank-you to those of you who have put me here over three decades.

It will also be to remember those who have supported me and are no longer with us. I remember the early years and I remember them and always will. Thank-you and God bless the Ribble Valley and its people. n

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AN AMICABLE DIVORCE? Whatever your personal circumstances, if you have decided to get divorced you will no doubt want to try to resolve things as amicably and cost effectively as possible anticipate an increase in the number of people getting divorced from April 2022 which will no doubt cause some delays.

What changes does the new law bring?

H

elen Lucking, head of family at Napthens, looks at changes to the divorce law which finally came into effect on 6th April 2022. This law, often called no-fault or amicable divorce, allows couples to start divorce proceedings without having to blame the other person.

The divorce process has already been made much easier as you can apply online using a simple form. The Courts have been dealing with divorce applications relatively quickly recently, with the process taking about four months from start to finish. However, we

The new law promises to end the blame game between couples. The process will be instigated with a statement that the marriage has irrevocably broken down and in fact, couples can apply for divorce jointly should they wish. It is hoped this new process will reduce hostilities, improving the situation for all concerned during a turbulent time, particularly where children involved.

It will no longer be possible to contest a divorce. There will be a minimum period of 20 weeks for couples to “reflect” before committing to divorce, followed by a further six weeks before divorce is finalised. Couples should be aware, however, that it is very unlikely issues relating to finances and children will be resolved within this same period.

that you have the correct postal address and email address for your husband/wife.

Take a look at how much the court fee is and whether you may be eligible to claim an exemption or a reduction in the fee.

You can do these things in advance so that when the time comes you are ready to make the application.

If you want the assistance of a solicitor, then arrange an appointment as soon as possible so they are aware of your situation and what you want to achieve. It is worthwhile getting your “ducks in a row” so that you are ready to go when the time comes. But please remember that the divorce is simply the dissolution of the marriage. Financial issues still need to be addressed – and this is where complications can arise.

Contact a member of our family law team to discuss your circumstances and take specialist legal advice before you take steps to resolve financial issues. n

Being prepared

If you are contemplating divorce, it is worthwhile spending time in advance to gather all the information you will need.

Find your marriage certificate and make sure

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.

Email or call

together@napthens.co.uk 0345 671 0276

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lifestyle The show gardens often form the foundations of the displays John and wife Kate produce for the Royal Horticultural Society’s Tatton Flower Show and also Southport and Harrogate Flower Shows, where they have enjoyed considerable success taking numerous gold medals for their show gardens, which have been praised for their expert planting and structure.

Down in the lovely, newly-developed beck area at Holden Clough is the re-stocked, fabulous Pots and Pithoi display – the nursery is the only stockist in the UK outside of Oxford to features these exclusive Cretan terracotta pots, which feature at Highgrove – the residence of Prince Charles.

THE COLOURS OF SPRING HAVE ARRIVED It’s the time of year when Holden Clough Nursery comes alive with bursts of colour as flowers come into bloom and wildlife is buzzing

V

isitors can take a seasonal tour around the ever-changing rural idyll that is Holden Clough and view the latest plant collections that have been beautifully curated.

Meander through the gravel pathways and observe the plants that are grouped by association and colour making it easier to choose for a specific area. And within each planting sections you will find handy ‘Did you know?’ gardening tips.

If you want plants for borders there will be a selection that will produce a perfect display throughout the summer and there is always someone on hand to give expert advice.

Nursery owner John Foley offers a free-ofcharge Border Design Service – he will happily meet you at the nursery to discuss and assist in drawing planting layouts for your borders, taking into account your aspect, flowering times, structure and style along with planting combinations to give you beautiful borders.

This year, with an enhanced offering, John and the team have curated packs

of plants that go well together in terms of aesthetics and grow well together in terms of withstanding the northern climate.

All plants at Holden Clough are hardy and especially reared outdoors to withstand our chilly, wet weather.

The curated pack-and-plant collections are named according to the type of garden you wish to achieve including Cottage Garden, Shade Loving, Wildflower and White – they are perfect for gardeners who may lack confidence in choosing what will look good and grow well. At a set price, each pack will cover a specific metreage and are great for classic ‘repeat planting’ which will create a larger stunning display or repeated along a lengthy border resulting in a beautiful summer display.

Once again, the Frame Yard at Holden Clough, which is tucked away in the pretty hamlet of Holden, will be producing four show gardens to help inspire you with your plant combinations and plant heights.

The gravelled beck area has an extensive display of pots from huge centrepieces to smaller versions, with a stone water feature as a pretty backdrop and the Holden Clough Croft pod at the hub.

A trip to Holden Clough is a must this spring – from the glasshouse with its beautiful displays of vintage-style furniture and accessories to the forthcoming artisan markets, you will delight in the magic of this stunning destination. n

ARTISAN MARKETS: Bluebell 22nd-24th April Lilac 6th-8th May Rose 10th-12th June All individually named with inspirational makers and collections, handpicked for their artisan qualities with delightful handmade products BOOK A TIME ONLINE holdenclough.com

Holden Clough Nurseries Holden, Bolton-by-Bowland, Clitheroe BB7 4PF 01200 447615 holdenclough.com Open 7 days a week: 9am till 5pm

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'All Things Garden Since 1927'

'All Things Garden Since 1927'

'All Things Things Garden Garden Since Since 1927' 1927' 'All

NURSERIES OPENING TIMES 9am till 5pm Monday - Sunday THE SHEPHERDS HUT Serving 'Grub' from HUT THE SHEPHERDS THESHEPHERDS SHEPHERDSHUT HUT Serving 'Grub' from from 9.30am 4.30pm Monday - Sunday Servingtill'Grub' from 9.30am till 4.30pm 4.30pm Monday Monday -- Sunday Sunday NURSERIES OPENING TIMES NURSERIESOPENING OPENINGTIMES TIMES 9am Monday 9amtilltill5pm 5pmMonday Monday-- Sunday -Sunday Sunday

9.30am till 4.30pm Monday - Sunday

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HISTORIC STEAM FAIR Organiser of the Slaidburn Steam Fair David McNamee is delighted to see the return of the historic fair this year

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he legendary Slaidburn Steam Fair is back and bigger than ever! The fair will, as usual, be located at the Hark to Bounty in the heart of the village of Slaidburn on 11th and 12th June with a good number of steam engines arriving from all parts of Lancashire and Cheshire.

Along with 50 vintage tractors and 50 vintage cars, there will

be entertainment over the twoday event.

Since its inception four decades ago, Slaidburn Steam Fair has been organised single-handedly

by David McNamee who, in 2019, was the winner of a Special Recommendation prize at the Ribble Valley Stars of Tourism Awards held at Holmes Mill.

The glass trophy and certificate recognised his singular work and dedication to the Slaidburn Steam Fair over the years.

During the 40-year running of the fair more than £88,000 has been raised for local village charities and organisations.

This year donations will be made to Brennands Endowed School, Slaidburn and Thorneyholme Primary School, Dunsop Bridge.

“I enjoy organising the fair tremendously. It’s a lot of hard work – we don’t have a committee which makes decisions easier, but we do have a lot of local

support from the village,” explains David.

With free admission, this year’s fair will feature a country craft fair with a clog maker, basket weaver, rugmaker and rusher, along with a fairground organ.

On the Sunday there will be clog dancers and the renowned, celebratory barbecue.

Having been forced to cancel the event over the past two years, David is delighted that the fair is back: “As far as exhibits go, we have had to turn people away as it’s so busy. We have some rare steam engines including two showman’s locomotives.

The support we have seen has been fantastic!” n

​ laidburn Steam Fair S 11th and 12th June from 10.30am Free admission slaidburnsteam.co.uk

LUXURY LODGES FOR SALE www.ribblesdalelodges.co.uk

A division of Gisburne Park Estate Ltd.

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lifestyle When it comes to adding a garden room or pod to your property to add extra room, you will need to ask different questions.

How big does the room need to be?

What is it going to be used for, what about heating, water and electricity? While pods and garden rooms may be similar in structure to lodges their use is varied and

WHEN CHOOSING ON WHICH PARK TO BUY A LODGE, CHOOSE WISELY – LOOK AT THE LOCATION, VISIT SOME OF THE LOCAL INNS AND RESTAURANTS ASK YOURSELF ALL THE RELEVANT QUESTIONS

BEAUTIFUL S PA C E S Whether you’re seeking to maximise space at home, in your business or looking for a holiday escape, lodges, pods and garden rooms can all be viewed as great investments

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f you are looking for a holiday home on one of the beautifully appointed lodge parks in the region, there are many to choose from, giving you the ultimate weekend escape as well as a property that can be let as and when you choose, enabling you to reap the benefits.

Renting out your lodge could cover the maintenance costs and more, while you can still use it as your personal holiday destination – making it a sound investment.

As lodges are becoming more and more luxurious, properties are being kitted out with all the latest fixtures, fittings and accessories to make life more enjoyable during your stay.

Don’t be surprised to find hot tubs on the decking for those balmy summer evenings or lovely wood burners in the contemporary living spaces to keep you warm on chilly autumn nights.

When choosing on which park to buy a lodge, choose wisely – look at the location, visit some of the local inns and restaurants ask yourself all the relevant questions. Are they located within walking or cycling distance of local amenities, are there shops nearby and are there lots of lovely walks and rambles to enjoy?

For your own enjoyment and for that of renting holidaymakers, there are lots of things to take into consideration.

they don’t necessarily need to be on your own property – some pods are perfect for adding extra space to a commercial property to be used as a base for business.

Pods are often contemporary spaces that have high-spec insulation and 21st century technology.

If you are installing a pod or garden room as a home office, study or quiet space in which to enjoy your garden, bear in mind that the initial cost may seem expensive, but kit it out in the correct way and it will add value to your property when you come to sell in the future.

So, all in all if you’re looking for a holiday park lodge or if you would like to create extra space at your business premises or in your garden, lodges, pods and garden rooms are all fabulous options and worthwhile investments. n

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F O R TH E RU N AWAYS

Escape from it all at our beautiful secluded hideaways, with spectacular views and total tranquility.

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Gather friends and family and enjoy real quality time together, for special occasions, or just because.

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Get out and about in the Lake District or Trough of Bowland and see what you can discover from your doorstep.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 01524 784290 OR VISIT PURE-LEISURE.CO.UK

Live Preston - A4 - November 2021.indd 1

05/11/2021 14:59:46

Photography: Kirsten Platt

RURAL IDYLL

enjoy stunning views over Longridge Fell and Stonyhurst College and with high demand anticipated, potential buyers can view the lodges now – as seen on site.

As a great investment opportunity, you can own a luxury lodge YOU CHOOSE As an investment this is perfect – as a buyer in one of the finest locations in the country

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ne of the Ribble Valley’s most attractive and popular lodge parks has a number of luxury lodges for sale. This is an opportunity to own a lodge – buy on-site, as seen with a 12-month licence – representing a great investment!

you can choose exactly how you would like to use your luxury lodge. You could buy and let your lodge throughout the year through Airbnb or through the team at Ribble Valley View. Alternatively, you can earn income from letting as and when you choose, while still enjoying your very own holiday lodge in one of the most desirable areas of the country, surrounded by nature.

The lodges can be short term holiday rentals or long-term holiday homes. It’s a good investment opportunity and a great asset.

Understandably, the park attracts holidaymakers, owners and investors from throughout the UK.

VIEW NOW!

Surrounded by green fields and farmland, the Phase One lodges that are for sale,

PHASE ONE

EARN INCOME FROM LETTING AS AND WHEN YOU CHOOSE, WHILE STILL OWNING YOUR VERY OWN HOLIDAY LODGE IN ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY

UNRIVALLED LOCATION

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Ribble Valley View launched more than a decade ago with 30 lodges and a number of these are available to view on-site and purchase now. Due to their unrivalled location, tucked away in the rural Ribble Valley, these lodges have been incredibly popular as holiday rentals.

Owned and run by the Simpson family Philip, Ian, Robert and Helen, the 40-acre lodge site represents a hugely successful diversification project. Coming from a dairy farming background spanning more than 100 years, this fourth-generation family have developed the lodge park into a popular holiday destination as well as a thriving hub within the Ribble Valley.

The Simpsons have brought thousands of visitors to the area, which is renowned for its beautiful countryside, fabulous food and hospitality.

Nestled in a sought-after rural location, Ribble Valley View lodge owners and holidaymakers enjoy high-speed wi-fi and high-tech security within this gated community.

Surrounded by fields, woodlands and indigenous wildlife, they can take advantage of the many and varied walks around the countryside as well as visiting the renowned

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country inns and restaurants and experience all the wonderful destinations that the Ribble Valley has to offer.

WE ARE REALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO AND GIVEN THAT PEOPLE ARE FAVOURING STAYCATIONS, THE LODGES ARE EXTREMELY POPULAR The lodge park is located next to the highly acclaimed Black Bull at Old Langho, as Ian Simpson explains: “We support the pub and they support us. It’s a great country inn and restaurant that our owner occupiers and holiday guests can enjoy, with great quality food and just a stone’s throw away.”

PHASE TWO

The Simpson family are delighted to announce they have been granted planning permission to develop Phase Two of Ribble

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

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Valley View. This will feature 19 new luxury lodges overlooking Dinckley Brook.

Potential buyers can pick their plot and buy off plan now. n

RIBBLE VALLEY VIEW PHASE ONE LODGES NOW ON SALE AND AVAILABLE TO VIEW ON-SITE NOW COMING SOON: PHASE TWO Enquiries call: 0800 181 4044

Ribble Valley View Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 0800 181 4044 hello@ribblevalleyview.com ribblevalleyview.com hoseasons.co.uk stonesyoung.co.uk

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lifestyle Martin Winters, Senior Business Support Manager from Blackburn Rovers Community Trust explained: “We were blown away with the support we received from Rovers fans across the country and how people came together to make the event a success.

“We wanted to raise as much money as possible for worthwhile causes, whilst ensuring the fans, who won a place in the team were rewarded with a professional, once-in-a- lifetime, match-day experience.

The participants used the first team dressing rooms, with their unique match-day kit waiting for them. They then walked out of the famous tunnel to a roaring crowd and the flash of cameras before gracing the hallowed turf for what was a very competitive game of football.

ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE A charity football match has raised an amazing £20,000 for worthy causes.

Photography: Paul Currie

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wood Park recently hosted the inaugural Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Football Aid in the Community charity match – Blackburn Rovers Home v Blackburn Rovers Away.

The evening gave Rovers fans a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to play alongside, and be managed by, former Rovers players including Danny Graham, David Dunn, Derek Fazackerley, Howard Gayle and Mark Atkins – all under the floodlights of Ewood Park.

Money generated from winning bids for a place in the team, ticket sales and via the trust’s Just Giving page, helped raised much needed funds to support Tony Parkes and his family, amid spiralling care costs following the club legend’s diagnosis with Alzheimer’s in 2019. The event also supported local community projects, such as Remember the Rovers, which supports people with dementia, as well as other initiatives aimed at tackling social isolation among the elderly.

WE WERE BLOWN AWAY WITH THE SUPPORT WE RECEIVED FROM ROVERS FANS ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND HOW PEOPLE CAME TOGETHER TO MAKE THE EVENT A SUCCESS The response to the event was overwhelming, with support from local businesses and fans alike. Greenthumb Lawn Treatment Services were the main event sponsors, with other businesses generously supporting the event too – LCC scaffolding, The Ref Stop, McDonald’s, Blades Building & Roofing, Lune Valley Pods and Norwest Medical Services.

WE WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR THEIR SUPPORT, AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO FOOTBALL AID IN THE COMMUNITY 2023 “Feedback from the day has been excellent, with players and spectators enjoying their time at Ewood Park, which helped raise over £20,000! We want to thank everyone for their support, and we look forward to Football Aid in the Community 2023.”

Taking part in the match, sponsor Tyler Stevenson from Greenthumb, said: “The atmosphere was electric, lining up in the tunnel with Derek Fazackerley and Mark Atkins giving final instructions to the two teams and then running out, it really was an authentic pro-footballer experience.

“The 600 strong crowd really got into the spirit of things and created a great atmosphere. The Rovers legends were brilliant, making sure we had a great time.

Earlier on that day I’d been aerating and scarifying customers’ lawns so I went from groundsman to pro-footballer in a matter of hours. On behalf of all the players and sponsors I want to thank the trust for all their hard work making the night such a great experience. I can’t wait for next year’s event!” n

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staying on board! At higher levels, new games are introduced, such as a sack race and even one involving a pantomime horse!

Some members specialise in mounted games and have ponies who purely excel in the fast-paced races. The majority, however, have just one pony who does all disciplines at Pony Club. Prince Phillip himself attested that he originally designed the Prince Phillip Cup for ‘ordinary children on ordinary ponies’, so anyone can give it a go!

IN THE SADDLE Within the Pony Club, there are many ridden disciplines to participate in, and the core of Chipping’s ethos is to take every opportunity to try something new, writes Megan Conlon.

Photography: Diane Marsden

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ne of the Pony Club disciplines is mounted games which I describe to my non-horsey friends as ‘relay races on horseback’, with various obstacles to navigate and items to manoeuvre. The age range is from three to 14, which neatly encompasses many different levels of riding experience.

It is a discipline which enables members to start out at novice level and advance all the way to national competitions, such as the Horse of the Year Show or Windsor Horse Show, or even international ones!

Beginners, who are at grass roots level, can still be on a lead rein. Then, as their confidence and ability strengthens, they may join a junior team and compete for

their club. If they are successful, they may qualify for the Pony Club Championships.

Over time, they then progress to a senior team and compete in the Prince Phillip Cup. This begins at the area competitions, which are held once a year in all 19 Pony Club Areas around the UK. The winners of these competitions move to the Zone Finals and the winners of those compete at the world-famous Horse of the Year Show.

There are some common races, which feature in many competitions – the simple bending race which involves weaving between poles, the mug race where riders move mugs from one pole to another and the flag race, involving moving flags from one cone to the next, all while maintaining speed and

Over the years, Chipping has been successful within this discipline and have competed at the Zone Finals! This year, we started the season with a handful of riders, who were completely new to the sport and had to be trained from scratch.

This was done by one of our members, Sarah Hoare, who is well-versed in mounted games and used that knowledge to coach our team members to be competition-ready.

Throughout the Winter League competitions, which took place on (often cold and wet) Friday evenings, the team were able to improve their performance every time, consistently getting higher placings as they went on. We are very much looking forward to entering a team into the area competition where we can put all the hard work into practice. 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

lifestyle

ALL SET…

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Dream only arrived in Yorkshire just before Christmas and she looked absolutely gorgeous in the sunshine. There is some talk of her potentially running in a quality fillies’ novice race at Chester at the beginning of May, but she needs to prove herself in a trial gallop before then.

Of all these two-year-olds, the first to run is probably going to be Admiral Jack, a very handsome steel grey colt, beautifully bred by Coolmore Stud who retained 20 per cent – always a good sign when the breeders want to keep an interest!

Jason Fildes, of Highclere Racing, looks at the prospects of the two-year-olds and when they are likely to be seen on the racecourse

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e were in Middleham this week looking at the new two-year-olds beginning to step up their training ahead of making racecourse debuts in the next couple of months.

There are two colts at Karl Burke’s Spigot Lodge stables, both of whom look very promising.

Design is Highclere’s home bred by Expert Eye. Karl thinks it will probably be towards the end of May before he’s ready to run over six furlongs.

The well named Edmund Ironside, whose sire Saxon Warrior won the 2000 Guineas over one mile is also unlikely to be sharp enough to be an out and out sprinter, so probably won’t be seen until the six-furlong races start for these youngsters (up until the Dante meeting at York it’s five furlongs only for two-year-olds).

As it’s an early start in the training yards at this time of year, some of the owners went up the night before and we had an excellent dinner at the Wensleydale Heifer in West Witton. A full English breakfast was a must the following morning before we set out onto Low Moor to see the horses working over four furlongs.

IT’S GOING TO BE GREAT FUN TO SEE HOW THESE LOVELY HORSES FARE AT THE START OF THEIR RACING CAREERS As well as bringing better weather, spring also accelerates the development of the young colts and fillies – and these months are wonderful times in racehorse ownership with their potential yet untapped and all the dreams very much alive!

Mid-morning, we moved on to the other end of Middleham Moor and the fabulous facilities at Kingsley Park stables. Mark Johnston now shares the trainer licence with his son, Charlie. Like with all family businesses, this seems a natural progression with Mark, the winning-most trainer in the history of UK racing, taking a chairman -type role with Charlie overseeing day to day operations.

Our chestnut filly, Fragrance, by Oasis

Charlie said that he expected Admiral Jack to make his debut before the end of April. Personally, I can’t wait to see him run as he seems to have a brilliant attitude and the Johnstons have plenty of other youngsters to compare him with.

It’s going to be great fun to see how these lovely horses fare at the start of their racing careers and let’s hope they give their owners lots of fun – and some wonderful days ahead. n

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

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SPRING INTO CYCLING With the onset of warmer weather, lighter mornings and evenings more people are getting into cycling. We catch up with Ashley Brough, Ribble Cycles’ Retail Manager to get an insight into what you should consider when buying a bike What makes Ribble so special and what qualities make your bikes stand out?

As one of the oldest bicycle brands in the world we have a lot of cycling knowledge, and bike design expertise but, it is genuinely the people behind the brand that make it special and standout. We endorse our brand values and embody our cycling passion through everything we do. ‘Real’ ‘Bike’ ‘People’ is the message which you will see illuminated in the showroom. This ethos permeates through everything we do as a business – from when you first enter our showroom and speak with our retail experts to the design innovation that we

lead the market in, right down to the bespoke hand-building of our product.

What are the key considerations when buying a bike?

We have such a vast range that covers every riding genre and discipline – from road, off-road, gravel and adventure through to hybrids, commuter and e-bikes, so it can be a daunting task figuring out what you want and really need. Everything we do is designed to ensure the customer can easily define what is correct for them either online or better still with one of our in-store specialists.

Here we can tailor your needs to a specific model built solely for you and your intended use. We consider everything for the user from sizing, gears, wheels, tires and all touch points. All crucial considerations when choosing a bike to fit your individual needs.

Can I test ride a Ribble before I buy one?

We will be hosting various events at our flagship showroom in Clitheroe and offering test rides from across the range.

We understand that customers need this.

It further enhances our proposition and complete customer buying experience. So, please watch this space!

Are Ribble bikes expensive?

The broadness of our range is designed to fit the pockets of all our customers. We ensure that we are inclusive to everyone’s needs when it comes to investing in a bicycle, which is why we offer a competitive product at a competitive price. The custom ‘BikeBuilder’ nature and uniqueness of our brand enables customers to run away with their imagination and build something truly special to them and that can work within their budget. We also offer financial options to help assist so that everyone can ride and enjoy their dream Ribble bike.

And finally, what is your favourite Ribble bike and why?

Never easy, given our range and my broad love of cycling. However, it would have to be the Ribble Hybrid Trail AL. Versatility is key to my limited leisure time, and as someone with a young active family it is a bike I can utilise in any setting or scenario. n

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FOR ADVENTURERS

Whether you take your own bike or hire one from our Dunsop HQ, enjoy the ride through Slaidburn and past Stocks Reservoir.

Or arrange to have one of our e-mountain bikes delivered to The Hub – Gisburn Forest is THE place to go for mountain biking and off-road trails.

ROUTES TO SUIT Every cyclist is different, and Ribble Valley e-Bikes owner Roger Wolstenholme knows there’s a local route to suit everyone

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Bowland for a scenic ride and fun-filled afternoon. Come back via Chipping and grab a brew at Chipping Farm Shop or an evening meal at the Inn at Whitwell.

FOR FAMILIES

Indulge in some of the best food in the North West right on our doorstep. Set out over Jeffrey to Ribchester for breakfast at Stydd Garden, carry on to Hurst Green for a cycle around scenic Stonyhurst and lunch at the Shireburn, and then pedal up an appetite for the best steak you’ve had this year at the Red Pump Inn. Head back over Hall Hill, and don’t worry, the electric drive will give you a boost when you need it after such a deliciously decadent day.

e’re very lucky in our little corner of Lancashire that there are great opportunities to explore by bike, whatever your age, ability or interest.

Whether you want to take in the views, take it easy, take the kids or take a ride on the wild side – you can do it all, and it all starts in Dunsop Bridge. We’ve highlighted just a few routes here, with full details online.

First things first – an ice cream at Puddleducks and a trip to the park! Practice with the children’s trailer or kid’s seats up Brennand Valley (look out for kingfishers) and then tootle over to the Wild Boar Park via Little

FOR FOODIES

FOR EXPLORERS

Versatility is key to this scenic route – you can build your own adventure, depending on how fit you’re feeling or how far you’re committed to going. From Dunsop Bridge to Slaidburn via Back Lane, there are a number of loops (of different distance) you can then choose to take a route across or around Easington Fell and return via Waddington Fell, Whitewell or Chipping.

Your efforts will be rewarded with great views at every turn.

Find out more about these trails on the website or drop us a line and we’ll do what we can to help design a route to suit you

For full details of each route and suggested stopping points visit: ribblevalley-ebikehire.co.uk

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MARRY ME NOW Say ‘I do’ in 22! A number of wedding venues have dates available this year for couples who don’t want to wait to tie the knot

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ith many weddings having had to be re-scheduled over the past couple of years, it may come as something of a surprise that this has left some dates available this year.

So, for those who want to get married without delay, this could be your chance!

While the UK has seen a surge in wedding bookings, most are for 2023 and 2024 so that couples have plenty of time to plan.

But if you’re happy to simplify things, it is quite easy to organise a wedding in a few months as opposed to a couple of years.

Booking the venue is usually the first

thing to consider. Here in the Ribble Valley we have many and varied venues – from bijou boutique locations to grand country houses so whatever style of wedding you are seeking, a date maybe available for you this year.

HERE IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY WE HAVE MANY AND VARIED VENUES – FROM BIJOU BOUTIQUE LOCATIONS TO GRAND COUNTRY HOUSES Once you have set your date and found a venue that can accommodate you, book the registrar or the service.

Once you have these two things ticked off – the rest should be relatively plain sailing. Find a photographer, florist and cake-maker, reserve suits if you’re hiring, start the search for that all important wedding gown and go shopping for wedding rings.

A few months before you tie the knot send out your invitations and you should then soon be able to confirm numbers with your chosen venue. Think about a seating plan and consider who you’re going to delegate wedding day duties to.

Many venues have wedding organisers and co-ordinators that will work with you in the run-up to your big day, which takes any worry away.

We are lucky enough to live in an area that attracts couples from all over the country who want to get married here due to the sheer number of beautiful wedding venues within just a few square miles of the rolling green countryside dotted with pretty villages.

This rural idyll really is a fabulous place, where you and your guests could be experiencing a joy-filled day that will make 2022 a memorable year!

If you dream of saying ‘I do’ in 22 then check out the venues and see what dates are available. n

Forever+Ever We d d i n g F a i r Sunday 8th May | 11am - 3pm Join us for our Spring Wedding Fair and see the beautiful Abbey Suite all dressed up.

Explore the picture-perfect gardens and take a look at everything Mytton Fold has to offer.

Our Wedding Specialists are looking forward to welcoming you and being part of many more beautiful weddings!

Unable to attend? Contact our Wedding Team for a private viewing.

Photo credit: Jules Fortune Photography | Christopher Lewis Photography

Whalley Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire , BB6 8AB Tel. 01254 240 662 Email. events@myttonfold.co.uk

my ttonfold.co.uk

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weddings perfect place for guests to stay and continue the celebrations together.

The White Bull also has the facility to offer private dining with a special ‘chef’s table’.

“Up to 12 guests can enjoy a seven-course mix of dishes,” explains Lee. “Adam will consult beforehand and then the menu will be a culinary surprise. It is a wonderful, exclusive evening and we will ensure you and your guests have a fantastic dining experience.”

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A PERFECT DAY Gisburn’s 18th century coaching inn, the White Bull has fast become a central hub in the local community and is the perfect place to hold your wedding or special event, writes Gail Bailey

I

n June 2021 Lee Hughes took over the White Bull in Gisburn making it the ideal place to relax with family and friends and, with a beautiful function room, it is also an idyllic venue to celebrate your 2022 wedding: “Our private function room is stunning and can hold up to 100 guests, making it perfect for any event,” explains Lee. Dine in style as you celebrate with either a banquet, buffet or sit-down meal (80 people in the function room plus additional in the marquee) with delicious dishes created by experienced chef Adam Bennett.

“We are so lucky to have Adam here at the White Bull, he has a wealth of experience and has worked alongside acclaimed chef and restaurateur, Marco Pierre White,” says Lee. To take the stress out of planning your wedding or celebration the experienced events management team at the White Bull can help with the organisation: “We are obsessed with making your day a special and memorable one.”

There is also the added benefit of a private conservatory and a wonderful secret garden offering a secluded spot for guests to unwind

A champion of supporting charitable causes and mental health awareness, Lee and his team have arranged a charity Sportsman’s Dinner: “We are proud to put our team’s welfare and mental health at the forefront of our business model and are happy to be raising funds for such a worthwhile cause.”

There is so much to enjoy at the White Bull, and the passion and enthusiasm from Lee and his team will ensure you and your guests have a fabulous time. “Creating wonderful moments and memories for our guests to enjoy is our whole team ethos, and we look forward to welcoming you, your family and your friends,” adds Lee. n Follow the White Bull at Gisburn on Instagram and Facebook to keep on track with what Lee and the team are up to and future events planned

and relax. With a selection of eight beautifully decorated rooms in either the historic coaching inn or the courtyard, it is also the CHARITY SPORTSMAN’S DINNER AT THE WHITE BULL Friday 24th June 2022 Inspirational guest speaker, footballer Colin Hendry, former Scotland International captain and Blackburn Rovers Premiership winner 94/95.

Tickets: £35 per head including three-course dinner and raffle.

White Bull Main Street, Gisburn Clitheroe BB7 4HE 01200 415805 hello@thewhitebullgisburn.com thewhitebullgisburn.com

Imagine...

A magical private wedding in the Lake District Enter through electric gates to discover this beautiful sanctuary in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning woodland in the heart of a hundred acre estate, Gilpin Lake House is quiet, untouched, and devoid of traffic or people – a place to forget about everything.

Perfect for both small and large weddings, the Lake House is fully serviced with Relais & Châteaux trained staff and Michelin starred chefs, and our dedicated team balance warmth and friendliness with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences.

With its own lake and pool, the house and grounds provide an inspiring and peaceful location with an abundance of natural beauty. Set on three levels with a beautiful entrance and sweeping staircase, the interiors are stylish, comfortable and warm, with a touch of home.

The six sumptuous bedrooms are individually designed and furnished, with crisp white linen, exquisite fabrics, wonderful upholstery, and delicious art. The lounge is scattered with sofas, armchairs and bookcases, and the huge adjoining conservatory has floor to ceiling glass on two sides; both rooms overlook the private lake. On the lower floor the heated indoor pool and sauna lead to the lake, cedarwood hot and gardens.

Elsewhere in the grounds there are kitchen gardens, a boat house, mature woodland, moorland, grassland, wild ponds, and a lovely walk with 360° panoramic views of the Lake District, including Coniston and the Llangdales in the distance.

We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

love ◦ laughter ◦ happily ever after

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House ◦ Windermere ◦ 015394 88818 ◦ hotel@thegilpin.co.uk ◦ www.thegilpin.co.uk

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From a classic country inn and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion to a gorgeous stately home and a romantic manor house, we have the perfect wedding venue to make your dream wedding day come to life.

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PHOTOGRAPHERS: Nick English, Kerry Woods & Jebson Photography

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weddings

A MAGICAL SETTING Set in 1400 acres of beautiful countryside, weddings at The Coniston are truly magical

F

rom panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, a majestical lake with a candlelit jetty, to charming historical features on the estate, The Coniston offers a picture-perfect setting to capture those memorable moments.

Choose to say ‘I do’ in the rustic barn contemporary space, at the on-site church or even by the lake! The Coniston’s dedicated team will be with you every step of the way to help bring your vision to life.

Wedding packages are tailor-made to you,

but when love simply won’t wait, say ‘I Do’ with The Coniston’s ‘You & I’ elopement wedding package:

THE DAY BEFORE:

Enjoy a sparkling afternoon tea on the sun-soaked terrace before exploring the estate with a Land Rover Taster Experience. Cosy up with the in-room dining service and enjoy a restful night before the main event.

Champagne dinner and luxury stay.

THE DAY AFTER:

Make the most of your time together with a four-hour spa thermal experience at the award-winning Nàdarra Spa. Enjoy a private indoor couple’s bath with fizz and strawberries to toast the future before the ultimate relaxation – a 60-minute couples massage ritual and mud-rasul. n

From £1,995.00 – Available Monday-Thursday until 31st March 2023 (excluding Bank Holidays)

THE BIG DAY:

Breakfast is served on your very own private balcony! Embrace the picturesque scenery before heading off for your intimate wedding ceremony.

A personalised cocktail awaits the happy couple before savouring a three-course

Find out if The Coniston is the perfect match by booking an exclusive viewing at: theconistonhotel.com

Relax in the landscape of luxury.

Nàdarra Spa is an award-winning exclusive spa located on the Coniston Estate, that offers a selection of indulgent experiences including pampering treatments, soothing spa days, and luxurious spa stays.

Meaning ‘Natural’ in Scottish Gaelic, Nàdarra Spa makes the most of its idyllic location as a place to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself and nature.

Our Facilities

Indulgent Treatments

Dining at Blossom Kitchen

Infinity Pool | Private Garden Bath Mud Rasul Ritual | Thermal Suite

Ishga | Aromatherapy Associates OTO CBD | Natura Bissé

Brunch | Lunch Afternoon Tea | Dinner

Make a reservation online at theconistonhotel.com The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa | Coniston Cold, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 4EA Tel: (+44) 1756 748080 | Email: info@theconistonhotel.com | Web: theconistonhotel.com

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FOOD FOR ANY OCCASION… Davina Parker is the skilled and talented cook behind High Class Catering, which has gone from strength to strength since she launched the business a decade ago

H

aving always had a passion for food and cooking, Davina Parker attended catering college before spending over 10 years working as a chalet girl and in restaurants in French ski resorts and on the Cote d’Azur.

She went on to set up her own catering business, awardwinning High Class Catering, which this year celebrates its 10th year.

Catering for private and corporate clients at weddings and

events, Davina prides herself on her reliability, consistency, professionalism and, of course, her delicious food!

Having catered for up to 1500 guests in one weekend, Davina is able to deal with all

requests no matter how large or small.

“The business has gone way beyond my expectations,” says a delighted Davina, who also delivers home-made high quality ready meals.

With lots of positive feedback from clients, High Class Catering was recently named Wedding Caterer of the Year for the North West of England at the 2022 English Wedding Awards, which recognises exceptional wedding suppliers. n

High Class Catering 14 Manor Road Wrea Green Preston PR4 2PB 01772 684545 07814 318333 davina@highclasscatering.co.uk highclasscatering.co.uk

EDUCATIONN E W S CHARITY BIKE RIDE

STUDENT SERVICES

PONY CLUB TRIATHLON

Oakhill Year 10 pupil, Finlay is set to embark on a 100-mile bike ride to raise money for Pendleside Hospice in honour of his late grandad. Finlay, who has already raised £900 towards the bike ride, said: “I’m so grateful for the donations that have already been made, my initial target was £250, but we have already made an astonishing £900.”

Burnley College’s Student Services team has been praised for its exceptional performance by national inspectors. The Matrix Standard is a quality framework used to assess individuals and bodies who give information, advice and guidance. Matrix Standard inspectors rated Burnley College’s friendly and approachable Student Services team as ‘highly impressive’ and singled out multiple strengths.

One of Stonyhurst’s Year 7 pupils, George, became National Champion at the Pony Club Winter Triathlon finals – a considerable achievement competing against some talented individuals from across the UK. The event included running, swimming and shooting. George was placed first, winning the award for ‘Best Swim’.

ART STUDY

GB ICE HOCKEY

Oakhill’s Year 3 have been studying the British artist, Lucian Freud. After experimenting with tints, tones and building up layers of colour they studied two of his paintings the Girl with a Kitten and Boy on a Sofa 1994. Year 3 are immensely proud of their finished paintings.

They taught, advised and encouraged each other from first sketches to finished pieces.

Oakhill’s Year 9 student, Lydia Lutwyche, has been chosen to represent Great Britain in the under 16s Ice Hockey World Championships, after being selected based on her outstanding ice hockey abilities. Lydia said: “It’s an honour to be chosen to represent Great Britain. Ice hockey has always been a huge passion of mine, so I’m looking forward to turning my passion into a greater opportunity.”

RUGBY SEVENS

COMPOSER PRAISES PUPIL

JUBILEE TREE PLANTING Westholme was delighted to welcome Amanda Parker, Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire, who spoke to students before taking part in a tree planting ceremony at the new Prep School site, as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) initiative to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

This initiative invites people from across the UK, including individuals, schools or entire cities, to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’, benefiting future generations and creating a legacy in honour of the Queen’s leadership.

As the Rugby Sevens season ends, Stonyhurst reflects on a highly successful period with the U11s, U13s, and Seniors winning their respective age groups with the U16s making it to the semi-finals. The Stonyhurst U15s achieved runners-up in the final and the U14s team were winners at the Bolton Tournament in their age category. The 1st VII squad played in the Rosslyn Park National Sevens where they became group winners on day one, progressing on to the final day of the competition. The senior rugby squad now turns their attention to the South Africa tour in July.

Taylor Ng’s piano performance of Michele McLaughlin’s ‘Northern Lights’ impressed not only the Highfield Priory school community but also the composer herself. Taylor was thrilled to receive a special video response from Michele, who complimented her on a ‘phenomenal job’.

The Headmaster of Highfield Priory School, Mr Duke, said the school was honoured to have so many talented pupils.

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ONE IN A MILLION

W

ith several of the year groups already full, and expanding over into two classes, Westholme is fully geared up and excited to welcome new students to its unrivalled holistic environment, which delivers the academic rigour expected of such a distinctive school.

Many students are joining the Prep School in Year 6 in readiness for the Senior part of the school, knowing they have a guaranteed place in Year 7 once they’re at the school.

The construction of the impressive new Prep School is continuing apace and the excitement and anticipation can certainly be felt throughout the whole school for the grand opening in September 2022. The new Prep School will bring forth the longheld vision that all pupils aged from four to 18 will be educated on the beautifully rural Wilmar Lodge campus, bringing together the complete Westholme family on to one site.

As always, Westholme is rising to the challenge! With increased demand for places at top independent schools, Westholme has created greater capacity, especially in the Prep School, writes Meena McDonald Dr Richard Robson, Principal at Westholme School, commented: “We’re investing in Westholme and building a truly holistic education for students throughout Lancashire

BRINGING ALL THE STUDENTS TOGETHER INTO ONE AREA AND LINKING THEM FROM THE AGE OF FOUR TO 18 IS PART OF OUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE and parts of Greater Manchester. Bringing all the students together into one area and linking them from the age of four to 18 is part of our vision for the future. The

younger children in the Prep School have full access not only to the phenomenal range of facilities the school provides, but also to the older students.

“The students in the INSPIRED Sixth Form who act as mentors, inspire the younger ones to realise they have the full support within the school to become confident young adults, who can achieve their wonderful aspirations.”

One distinctive hallmark anyone visiting Westholme will instantly witness is the warmth and friendliness of the school.

Students can be seen happily walking around and chatting with smiles on their faces in between lessons and during breaks, being

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politely helpful to fellow students and their teachers. The interaction between the students as well as with the teachers is very endearing to watch.

Dr Robson continues: “The Student Executive from the INSPIRED Sixth Form regularly lead the school assembly. At one recent assembly, the theme they chose was ‘gratitude’. They challenged the whole school to be thankful for what they have and take a step back and be genuinely appreciative of every aspect of life. The students even linked gratitude to the science of positive endorphins and how they impact human emotions.

“It was incredible to watch the faces of the younger students who were in awe of what they saw and heard. One student even commented that the school was ‘one in a million’ which was truly overwhelming to hear. Confident, motivated, intelligent young adults inspiring the younger students is what we believe makes Westholme so unique.”

CONFIDENT, MOTIVATED, INTELLIGENT YOUNG ADULTS INSPIRING THE YOUNGER STUDENTS IS WHAT WE BELIEVE MAKES WESTHOLME SO UNIQUE The school inculcates workplace skills within the heart of the curriculum to encourage students to achieve their aspirations whatever they are, whilst helping them to build the qualities they require in adulthood such as independence, problem solving, creativity, leadership and confidence to prepare them to become 21st century entrepreneurs.

The altruistic environment created by Dr Robson and the teaching staff means the students are all down to earth and personable, aware of the fantastic opportunity their parents have afforded them through their sheer hard work and determination to provide them with the best prospects for their future.

The academic rigour of the school isn’t a recent phenomenon as anyone attending the official opening of the Prep School on Friday 16th September 2022 will discover.

Professor Sophie Scott CBE FMedSci FBA, who is a British neuroscientist and Wellcome Trust Senior Fellow at University College London, is testament to this. She is a proud alumna of the school and when she was awarded her CBE recently, she cited Dr Bond,

the third Principal of Westholme, as the inspiration to achieve her aspirations.

Dr Robson concludes: “The students in the Prep School, really do receive the whole package, having all the advantages of the incredible facilities at Westholme such as the swimming pool, tennis courts, theatre, outdoor space and recording studios to name but a few.

“But most importantly it is having access to all the ambitious students throughout the school, including the INSPIRED Sixth

WESTHOLME ANNUAL OPEN EVENING 6th October 2022

Form students who act as role models, enthusing and motivating them to achieve their goals whilst having fun and gaining a first-class education.”

Come along for a Westholme taster day to see the amazing difference a top independent holistic school can make to your child.

The official Annual Open Evening will take place on Thursday 6th October 2022 and everyone is encouraged to come along and witness first-hand what makes the school so unique.

If you would like to find out more about how your child would benefit from such a well-rounded education, call 01254 506070 and the team will happily have a chat with you or arrange for you to pop in at any time for a private tour to look around this remarkable school. n

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

business

Alexandra Hatchman has recently been appointed Chief Executive Officer of North West leading law firm Napthens. Gail Bailey meets Alex to learn more about her career journey

A

lex Hatchman has a wealth of experience in different sectors, including holding senior roles in retail and management consultancy, but at school Alex never imagined she would achieve the academic success that she attained: “I was sporty and constantly in a PE kit, however I was lucky that my physics teacher, along with my mother, saw something in me which pushed me to work incredibly hard,” she says.

That hard work paid off and she gained a place at the University of Oxford, graduating towards the top of her year.

Growing up in a single parent family, Alex saw her place at Oxford as a precious opportunity to create a better life for herself and her family: “I worked industriously at university and felt a sense of responsibility to make my place there mean something.

My mother was an absolute hero and her belief in me drove me to achieve.”

WORKING ACROSS A RANGE OF SECTORS AND BUSINESSES, GAVE ME AN INVALUABLE VIEWPOINT FROM WHICH TO LEARN DURING A FORMATIVE PART OF MY CAREER Alex, a self-confessed ‘geek’, qualified originally as an engineer, however she never felt this was entirely her calling, and recognised her skills more as a natural problem solver: “I was sponsored by Ford Motor Company during my degree and did a gap year before starting university, as well as placements each summer. This work experience enabled me to grow and find my direction,” Alex says.

She then joined global management consultancy Accenture, where she had further opportunity to experience different sectors: “Working across a range of sectors

and businesses, gave me an invaluable viewpoint from which to learn during a formative part of my career. It also gave me the opportunity to observe trends and I was fascinated seeing the retail sector change – it was the beginning of the dotcom era with different customer channels opening up.”

During Alex’s seven years at Accenture, she completed an MBA at INSEAD Business School in Paris. “My mother is Spanish, so I had grown up understanding differences in cultures, however during my time at INSEAD I met many people from different nationalities and backgrounds, and this gave me an even greater understanding. This appreciation of difference has been key to my own career and learning to never view talent from a narrow focus,” Alex says.

On leaving Accenture Alex went to work in a senior role at Tesco, which had become one of the biggest performing supermarkets, and from there she was head-hunted by Marks & Spencer to run their food logistics and supply chain in the UK and across the world: “As a relatively young woman I enjoyed the opportunity to ‘break the mould’ and be successful in what had previously been a predominantly male area, being able to challenge equal opportunity was, and still is, important to me,” explains Alex, who was further head-hunted to join Coles Supermarkets in Australia in a different role, being involved in the transformation of their 800 stores: “This again gave me more opportunity to learn and develop my own skills and gain further experience – both from a business and cultural perspective.”

On returning to the UK in 2016, Alex joined Fletchers Solicitors as a non-executive director, and then shortly after as the Chief Strategy and Operations Officer: “Law was a big part of my role with Marks & Spencer so whilst it was a difficult choice to leave

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the retail sector initially, overall, it felt like a natural next step.”

During the five years Alex worked at Fletchers she became Chief Executive Officer and was instrumental in increasing the turnover from £18m to £45m, cementing the company as one of the top 100 law firms in the UK. “I have huge respect for law and for lawyers and feel privileged that my achievements whilst at Fletchers were recognised by the Law Society in 2018 when I was presented with the Excellence in Practice Management Award,” Alex says.

“I am looking forward now to utilising my management consultancy and legal experience to support Napthens as it continues on its own growth journey. I have been lucky enough to work with the firm previously and the willingness of the team to work together and the existing company culture is something that really sets Napthens apart, and something I’m keen to take to the next level.”

AS A RELATIVELY YOUNG WOMAN I ENJOYED THE OPPORTUNITY TO ‘BREAK THE MOULD’ AND BE SUCCESSFUL IN WHAT HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN A PREDOMINANTLY MALE AREA With a demanding role and a family, it leaves little time for other interests, although Alex is currently engaged in helping the Ukrainian crisis by opening up her home to a mother and daughter seeking refuge: “It isn’t easy as our government has been objectively slow on this matter. While there are necessary processes that must be followed, it is evident that unnecessary barriers are also in place which are causing delays in being able to help these desperate people fleeing Ukraine. We are in constant contact with our family and cannot wait to welcome them into our home.”

This echoes Alex’s business ethos and philosophy which is very much centred around people: “I of course drive businesses to be successful, however it is not just about the ‘what’ – it is about the ‘how’,” explains Alex.

“I often say that it is important to have a wise head, a kind heart and a strong backbone – there are always ways to drive commercial success, however it is important to treat everyone with the dignity and respect they deserve.” n

BUSINESS MATTERS

tbc lifestyle 128 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

BLACK TIE CELEBRATION

WINE RETAILER OF THE YEAR

Whalley Golf Club directors and committee welcomed members back into the clubhouse after an extensive refurbishment for a sell-out black-tie party spectacular. Whalley Golf Club can claim to be one of the best nine-hole courses in the country with great new facilities including a dining suite to accommodate up to 100 guests, fine cuisine from the catering manager Julia Duffy, a brand new and well-equipped bar and lounge, a snooker room as well as a large, seated balcony with fantastic views over the course and surrounding Ribble Valley. A fantastic evening was enjoyed by all.

The Whalley Wine Shop was named as Independent Wine Retailer of the Year at the Drinks Retailing Awards 2022.

The Drinks Retailing Awards night, held last month, was a glamorous black-tie event held at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, London. Following the event Tom Jones of the Whalley Wine Shop tweeted: “Out of the blue to say the least but unbelievably proud to win!”

HEALTHIEST PLACE TO LIVE

DRIVERS LEARN IN NEW ELECTRIC MINI

The Office for National Statistics’ Health Index recently named the Ribble Valley as the healthiest place to live. Knocking Rutland off the number one spot, the Ribble Valley came out top, while Blackpool and Manchester were among the unhealthiest locations. The ONS ranked 307 local authorities in England using pre-Covid data up to 2019 for disease and obesity rates, green space, housing, jobs, schooling and crime. The index also compared the environment, jobs and facilities where people live, their health and habits and rates of physical and mental illnesses. Ribble Valley MP, Nigel Evans, said: “It is fantastic to see the Ribble Valley named as the healthiest place in England. The beautiful scenery, excellent housing, schools and world-class restaurants make for a really magnificent place to live.”

Learner drivers in Clitheroe will be among the first in Lancashire to take driving lessons in a new electric MINI. Bob Devine of Clitheroe School of Motoring has become the first driving instructor to buy an electric MINI from Bowker. After picking up his new MINI from the Bowker MINI centre on Trident Park Bob said: “I’ve driven MINIs from Bowker for more than 16 years now. When the MINI electric was launched last year, I was immediately curious. Then I drove one – and wow, it was so smooth! I asked followers on my business page how they would feel about learning in an electric vehicle and the response was extremely positive.

“The range is perfect for my business and lifestyle needs and the environmental benefits are the icing on the cake.”

Adam O’Neill from Bowker MINI, said: “Bob is one of an increasing number of drivers taking an interest in our electric and hybrid models. We hope that Bob’s students will love driving his new electric MINI as much as he does.”

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likely times have changed since they needed to make the decisions you’re facing now.

Your family are also likely to be the ones you speak to at sensitive times, like after a divorce or the loss of a loved one. When major financial decisions need to be made, emotions are often running high, so it’s easy to take advice from family and friends just to get it off your plate.

Although your family will have your best interests at heart, a financial adviser is more emotionally removed. They can offer c lear-minded advice that your family might not be able to. They’ll still treat your situation delicately, but they’ll be able to advise you objectively.

Your situation is unique

WHY IT HELPS TO SPEAK WITH AN EXPERT… Help! We all need it now and again. Our loved ones are usually the first we turn to for advice, but should they be the first port of call for financial guidance? The experts at Raymond James find out more

W

e all have important financial decisions to make throughout our lives. Typically, as we get older, some of the major life choices we make become all the more critical. Whilst friends and family will do their best to help, they tend not to have the qualifications, knowledge and expertise that a professional financial adviser can offer.

You can get free guidance from places like Pension Wise, the Money and Pensions

service or Citizens Advice. These sources are certainly useful but won’t get the personalised or in-depth recommendations you’d get from a financial adviser.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider speaking to an expert.

It’s not always easy to talk about money

Family members who’ve ‘been there, done that’ might speak from experience, but it’s

Our finances are a personal subject, and it’s likely information like your salary and spending habits are only known by a select few. Because of our reluctance to share too much with our friends and family, they’ll never get the full picture.

A financial adviser is impartial and disconnected. This lets you share more detail with confidence. With an understanding of the full picture, an adviser can build you the most suitable and efficient financial plan and investment strategy. They will consider your full financial circumstances now, where you want to be in the future, how to get there and stay on track. They also analyse things such as your previous investment experience, risk tolerance, tax allowances, life goals and timescales and knowledge.

Conversation costs nothing

We offer a free initial consultation. The journey starts with a no-obligation call back or meeting with one of our qualified team members. They will initially help you decide if advice is right for you and answer any questions you might have.

There is no pressure, no commitment and no obligation.You can then make an informed decision as to whether we are the right company for you to work with. n Risk Warning: With investing, your capital is at risk

Raymond James Ribble Valley 8 Berry Lane, Longridge Preston PR3 3JA 01772 7803007 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley demands more CCTV to make our streets safer and asks that we all support our local shops and businesses

I

’ve been advised by some well-intentioned friends to avoid Whalley like the plague – road chaos, noise, dirt and nowhere to park were the reasons cited. This, of course, whilst all true is the exact opposite of what we should be doing.

Please try to get into Whalley as often as you can, we have some amazing independent businesses suffering at the hands of ridiculous changes to the pavement. What Whalley needs is a community car park paid for by the Section 106 monies levied from the multitude of house builders given permission to build in the last few years.

The current work carried out by LCC, on instructions from our friends at RVBC, has created a catastrophic chain of events on the already beleaguered high street. Based on my conversations with local retailers, there’s been little communication and no compensation, which in my view, once again illustrates a lack of interest in working alongside the taxpayers and those investing heavily in the village.

Please make the effort and support these wonderful shops, some of whom you’ll see advertising in this issue. ne of the other things that has come to light this month, is the publication of recommendations by the ARC Consultancy, a Birmingham-based business. The report was commissioned by RVBC at a cost taken I believe, from a fund from central government. The aim was to give direction on how to improve our high streets and drive footfall – the full report is available on the RVBC website but has been described as a complete waste of money by one county councillor. It has cost a fortune and at best, states the obvious. I know various Chambers of Trade, retailers and councillors are all up in arms at this nonsense. However, as one of the main suggestions is to improve communication between the council and the private sector, I wait with interest on the outcome and we welcome any involvement and would be happy to support.

I’ve noticed a series of articles in the Lancashire Telegraph and web-based media sharing some of my concerns and I’m so glad that other publications

O

can see some of the issues. Just last week there was an article around the low take-up of business rates relief and this struck a chord. A quote from one of the councillors said it would mean much more work for the council – well, big deal. I feel that’s what the staff are paid to do and the benefit to our businesses is immeasurable. Whatever support is available needs to be communicated and dealt with speedily. It feels once again that there’s no empathy nor understanding of the private sector and its challenges.

Another article in the Lancashire Telegraph told of a discussion regarding RVBC and a request from the Citizens Advice Bureau for ongoing support with funding for their services. I can only imagine the need for this service over the coming months will be at an all-time high – there are going to be many challenges for families and businesses alike and support will be needed.

CAB Clitheroe is the only local branch in the entire valley and in my view, their support should be increased not reduced. was once again horrified to read about a punch up – this time in Clitheroe at the end of March – a brawl in the town centre left people hospitalised with the police making arrests and asking for video footage. I know many councillors are asking about extra CCTV in our towns to keep us all safe. Blackburn with Darwen for example has received funding from another central fund so my question is, have RVBC asked for the same?

Some good news with regards to the support RVBC has shown in helping bring the cast and crew of a major feature film to Clitheroe. Officers I believe have been working behind the scenes for the last couple of years on this and it all came to fruition recently when the film crew and actors arrived in the town to receive a warm Ribble Valley welcome from enthusiastic residents and businesses. Hopefully the film will showcase the area to audiences across the world and I’m told RVBC are working on various ideas to build upon the publicity.

As you read this article, I hope you’re having a wonderful Easter and enjoying family and some time off. Please continue to be kind to each other and if you can, support our high streets. n

I

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

@TeddWalmsley

INTRODUCING THE NEW RANGE ROVER PEERLESS REFINEMENT AND LUXURY

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VERTU LAND ROVER BOLTON Kay Street, Bolton, BL1 2RX Tel: 0161 717 2189

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

PACKING A PUNCH The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 220i is agile, zippy and compact. It has also had some exceptional global reviews. Paul Agnew takes it on a test drive to find out more.

Photography: Andy Tighe

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ou could steer it with your little finger. But not for a minute am I advocating that you should – I’m just saying that you could.

Such is the agility of the handling of the zippy new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 220i, that driving it is an absolute breeze.

But the deftness of steering forms only part of the story, for this is a compact hatchback-cum-MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with real punch.

Just one of those cars that befriends you from the get-go. You know you’re going to like it when you ease in and you like it more when you ease out.

The latest version of this long-time BMW favourite has just hit the road, initially available with a range of petrol and diesel engine options, with a plug-in hybrid powertrain set to join the range later in the year. All models are fitted with an automatic gearbox.

THE INTERIOR, LIKE THE OVERALL BUILD QUALITY, IS LITTLE SHORT OF SUPERB Global reviewers rate it as far as ‘exceptional’ and given the ruthlessness of the ultracritical motor media, I reckon that’s pretty damned good.

But forget the so-called experts. What is it that we (that’s you and I dear reader) actually look for in a motor?

Comfort and practicality? Goes without saying. Technology and connectivity?

Absolutely.

Design and dynamics? Well, if you’re offering, then plenty please.

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Let’s take a closer look at the trio in order: Comfort comes as an absolute guarantee and you can throw in a Harman/Kardon sound system, heated front seats, Alcantara/ Sensatec upholstery with contrast stitching, Active Guard Plus with city braking and speed limitation, ambient lighting and a leather steering wheel.

Outstanding technology with renowned BMW live cockpit professional including fully digital, curved 10.25” instrument display with a 10.70” control touch, BMW operating system 8.0, intelligent personal assistant with personalised user account options and in-car 4G LTE connectivity.

The BMW ‘Connected Package Pro’ highlights real-time traffic information, remote services and connected parking. same pin-sharp graphics and a near-instant reaction to all your prods and swipes.

The positioning of the screen and the well laid out menus (inspired by smartphone displays) allow you to make quick adjustments.

Extra comfort comes via voice control and you’ll find buttons that control most aspects of the infotainment system right there on the steering wheel.

IT’S CHUNKY IN APPEARANCE, VERY ROOMY AND WELL-APPOINTED, WITH INFOTAINMENT WIDELY CONSIDERED BEST IN CLASS

Great design features with 18” double-spoke, bi-colour alloy wheels, LED headlights, aluminium hexacube dark interior trim, sports steering, door sill finishers with inserted aluminium, adaptive suspension, kidney grille in chrome with satinised aluminium struts.

It’s chunky in appearance (not in any way a negative), very roomy and well-appointed, with infotainment widely considered best in class.

Nobody does infotainment better than BMW and this is no exception. The fabulous touchscreen has built-in sat-nav, DAB radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring. It’s the same as the system fitted to the popular iX, with the

The interior, like the overall build quality, is little short of superb. Sturdy and reliable and comfortable over either short or long journeys, just as you would expect from a manufacturer of this stature.

Is it a family car? Most definitely. Capable of carrying numerous passengers without any compromise on cabin quality or performance.

If you prefer to enjoy the finer things in life, including a car that drives with genuine panache, then this particular BMW will not disappoint.

So what about the all-important stats?

Well, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer offers up 326 hp, zips from 0-62mph in around seven seconds and knocks out around 58 mpg with a very generous luggage space of up to 1,455 litres.

A car for every man and woman and their family.

Contemporary in design with a supreme level of technical comfort, it’s particularly suited for those with an active lifestyle.

For a car you could steer with your little finger, it’s definitely a thumbs-up from me. n

Bowker BMW Trident Park, Trident Way, Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274444 bowkermotorgroup.co.uk @BowkerBMW @Bowker_BMW BowkerMotorGroup TM

@BowkerBMW

THE UPDATED SPORTS LIMO Paul Agnew checks out the updated Porsche Panamera with more ability and bandwith than ever before. Photography: Andy Tighe

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ecisions, decisions! Choices, choices! Selecting a new car is always an experience to savour, but can you ever expect to get everything you want?

Invariably, there is need for compromise.

To guarantee high performance you might have to sacrifice a little comfort. Extra storage space could come at the expense of body shape and style.

However, if you want to swerve such dilemmas then let me offer a big tip… and a short trip.

Take a visit to Porsche Centre Preston and ask to be introduced to the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo.

For this is a car – make absolutely no

mistake – with all the answers and all the options. Unquestionably Porsche. Sporty at the very top end and with every possible refinement built in.

For performance… is a sprint from 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 182mph powerful enough? Twin-turbo

V6 engine, 8-speed transmission, all-wheel drive with a maximum torque of 750Nm, power-steering plus, Porsche InnoDrive and adaptive cruise control.

For comfort… how about a sumptuous leather interior, massage seats, soft close doors, ambient lighting, heated steering wheel and privacy glass? ParkAssist including surround view, front seats in 14-way electric with memory package, Four-zone automatic climate control. LED main headlights in black with matrix beam, including Porsche dynamic light system plus.

UNQUESTIONABLY PORSCHE. SPORTY AT THE VERY TOP END AND WITH EVERY POSSIBLE REFINEMENT BUILT IN For style… surely one of the best looking cars out there, inside and out, with SportDesign package and side skirts, 21-inch 911 turbo design wheels II, illuminated door sill guards in black brushed aluminium, majestic dashboard and white instrument dials complete with Sport Chrono stopwatch. Subtle yet stunning Porsche branding throughout, including wheel centre set with full-colour

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crest, brand crest on headrests and model logo embossed on centre console armrests.

For infotainment… BOSE surround sound system (10 speakers), USB-C interface in rear, preparation for Porsche rear seat entertainment, 7.2kW AC on-board charger, smartphone compartment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and, of course, the renowned Porsche Communication Management System (PCMS) complete with online navigation, mobile phone preparation, audio interfaces, voice control, music streaming and online radio.

IT IS CLEAR FROM THE GET-GO JUST WHAT AWAITS THE DRIVER AT THE WHEEL – ENDLESS MILES OF PURE, SENSATIONAL MOTORING PLEASURE

Not forgetting the many E-Hybrid, benefits (including a range of up to 35 miles and a ‘hold’ function enabling you to store the ‘electricity’ for precisely when you need it) which simply add to the reasons why.

Porsche E-Performance is billed as ‘soul, electrified’ and certainly it sets the iconic brand apart from other sports cars, both now and in the future.

An adaptive air suspension ensures a perfect combination of performance and comfort, able to adapt to any given situation.

There is a large luggage compartment under the wide opening tailgate while folding rear seat backrests allow larger objects to be transported too. Not traditionally typical of a sports car, but very typical of the Panamera.

But how does it actually handle?

Well, as the legendary Carrera

Panamericana is the inspiration for the name, it is clear from the get-go just what awaits the driver at the wheel – endless miles of pure, sensational motoring pleasure.

If the name itself is not enough, the combined power of up to 515kw (700PS) of the combustion engine and electric motor leaves no doubt; the Panamera packs a mighty punch.

There used to be a phrase ‘only flying is better’. Consider that now outdated.

Getting back to decisions and choices, if body colour is among your major considerations then take a look at the Amethyst Metallic model variant.

One of the world’s most prominent stones Amethyst is a regal purple long associated with nobility and aristocracy and boy does it sit well on the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo.

The latest jewel in the Porsche crown and a true gem of a car. n

Porsche Centre Preston Watery Lane PR2 1QJ 01772 911911 porschepreston.co.uk @PorscheCentrePreston @Porsche_Preston @Porsche_Preston Porsche Centre Preston

BOXING CLEVER

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GCSE student Alana Hulme, who is a twice British Muay Thai Championship winner has been awarded a prestigious grant to support her sporting future

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teen Thai boxing sensation is all set to compete at the AFSO Unified Championships in Carrara, Italy later this year.

Twice British Championship winner Alana Hulme, took up Muay Thai when she was 10.

Following in the footsteps of her mum Nicola, also a Thai boxer, Alana had initially tried kick boxing: “To my surprise I ended up really liking Muay Thai and I have grown to absolutely love the sport over the years.

“When I first began training just once a week, I started to enjoy the sessions more and more so I started to increase my time at the gym,” says Alana, whose dad Gavin and younger sister Emmie are also Thai boxers.

“I absolutely love sharing this passion with my family, it makes it even more special for me when I win a title, as we all appreciate the hard work and dedication it takes to take home a belt.”

MY PLANS AND HOPES FOR THE FUTURE ARE TO GET INTO THE GB NATIONAL SQUAD AND TO REPRESENT MY COUNTRY ACROSS THE WORLD When she was just 13, Alana clinched the British Championship title in the 12 to 14 age category and went on to successfully defend that title.

Now her sights are set on Italy and, beyond that, the 2024 Olympics, which will feature Thai boxing for the first time.

“That’s definitely my aim to get to the Olympics,” says Alana, who explains a little about the sport.

“Thai boxing is a bit like kick boxing, but you can do more things. It sounds brutal – when you are at a certain level you can use knees and elbows to the head.

I recently had my first novice fight using these techniques and I didn’t think I was going to like it, but it was fine!”

Training at least five times a week, Alana was recently selected for a prestigious Make a Difference (MAD) award by the Ribble Valley-based charity Dan’s Trust,

which was founded by Peter and Shelagh Bagshaw of Clitheroe, along with their sons Ian, Gary, and their wives Liz and Sarah. The charity was established in 2012 after the death of their son and brother, Daniel Bagshaw.

Dan, who was just 27, died on the finish line of an ITU Olympic distance triathlon in Hong Kong after suffering from a sudden and unexplained arrhythmia. Dan was a cycling enthusiast and a talented and athletic young lawyer.

The Bagshaw family are all passionate about the trust and supporting local young people with their dreams: “It’s fantastic to welcome Alana to our roster of talented ambassadors and award-winners from across Lancashire.

“We’re looking forward to supporting Alana’s Muay Thai journey and watching her talent and number of fight-wins grow,” says co-founder Ian Bagshaw.

The trust appointed 15-year-old Alana as an ambassador as well as helping fund her travel expenses and equipment that has enabled her to compete in Italy.

“I’m over the moon to have been selected for a Dan’s Trust MAD award. The funding

will also go towards paying for my nutritionists who will ensure I’m eating the right amounts for my training and get me in the best shape possible.

WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO SUPPORTING ALANA’S MUAY THAI JOURNEY AND WATCHING HER TALENT AND NUMBER OF FIGHT WINS GROW “My plans and hopes for the future are to get into the GB national squad and to represent my country across the world.

“Thanks to this extra funding, this huge dream feels one step closer,” says the rising star, who racks up 15 hours of training in a week. n As well as its successful awards programme, Dan’s Trust promotes and funds research into the early diagnosis of cardiac risk in the young, as well as the improvement of treatment methods for sudden cardiac arrest

danstrust.org.uk

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ARTISAN ADVENTURES From artisanal ice-cream makers to crafters of some of the finest cheeses, beers and gins in the world, Katie Wilson will take you on an unrivalled food tour of Bowland & Bay

aving spent many years in product development, self-confessed foodie Katie Wilson decided to take the plunge and set up Bowland & Bay – taking like-minded people on food adventures to meet artisan producers, from the fells of the Forest of Bowland to the coast around Morecambe Bay. “Burgundy is known as the prestigious area of France for fantastic food and drink.

In the UK, this is our Burgundy. I meet people who come up from London and the south and they can’t believe the breadth of small independent makers who create such fabulous products here in the north. These small artisan producers really put their heart in their homeland,” says Katie, who as part of her degree in American History, spent some time in Oregon as a student.

“I was blown away by the variety of food available out in the States. There was a bit of a hippie culture on the west coast, with an emphasis on natural, sustainable food and a lot of micro-breweries – back in the 90s these trends were virtually unheard of in the UK!” Katie’s experience in the US changed her career path and she went on to work in food related roles for a number of national organisations, including the National Trust.

But it was the pandemic that sowed the seeds of setting up her ‘artisan food tour’ business: “I had a lot of time on my hands on furlough, so I dug out my bike again and rode the Bay Cycle Way, in sections, from Glasson Dock to Barrow-in-Furness.

Somehow, everywhere I cycled I found a little local ice-cream maker and they were amazing. Ice-cream really soothes the soul.

That cycling experience inspired me.”

Full of admiration for small, craft producers, Katie adds: “The spirit of the independent

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artisans is unique – when I travelled around the States I would find myself creating food tours. Food is an important part of immersing yourself in the culture of an area.”

Aiming to provide a food experience with a micro-tourism footprint, Katie started to map out local suppliers: “They were incredibly supportive of my start up idea.

All of them said they had been longing for someone to develop an experience that revealed the richness of the food culture across Lancashire and Cumbria.”

PEOPLE LIKE THE ARTISAN VIBE, THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND THE FACT THAT BOWLAND & BAY IS AN ECO-ESCAPE – IT’S AN ADVENTURE THAT’S TOTALLY NEW TO THE UK Seeing the momentum of her food tour idea gaining traction, Katie launched Bowland & Bay artisan foodie adventures last summer and since then it has attracted people from throughout the UK as well as local Lancashire folk, who are keen to learn about the food heritage of their area.

One of the big surprises she has encountered since hosting her first food tour last summer, is how keen the younger generation are to learn about food: “They have spent their formative years with Great British Menu and Bake Off. Youngsters really know their food – it is an absolute delight!”

Bowland & Bay conducts mixed group tours from two to eight guests, private tours and specialist tours that can include brewery days or ultimate foodie experiences.

There are half days and full days around the Lake District and Lancashire and as your host and chauffeur, Katie will introduce guests to local artisans who craft some of the finest food in the UK. She will also share her local knowledge of history and legends.

“Guests can tailor make their own bespoke tour, or they can just join an existing one – you find they make friends very quickly as they all have one thing in common – they love food!” adds Katie, who was delighted

to host a tour for Craft Guild of Chefs’ national award winners Nick Smith, Steve Groves and Tom Swaby at the beginning of 2022. Starting off from Northcote, Katie took them on a half-day tour including Wild Fox Gin Distillery, the Cartford Inn, Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese, Walling’s Ice Cream and Farm Yard Ales.

“They really got the concept of the tours.

At one point they asked about butter pie – a northern delicacy. I went out and got some and there they were, three of the best chefs in Britain at a craft gin tasting session and sampling butter pie! They raved about it – I think they really saw the beauty in something simple and authentic.”

Looking to the future, Katie has various

tours planned: “I enjoy putting all the elements of a tour together so guests get the best possible experience. I tend to just give them a rough guide as to the order of the day, so it makes it a bit of a magical mystery tour.”

With over 150 artisan producers and chefs in this part of the UK, and with numbers growing, no two adventures are the same.

“People have been blown away by what we have here in Lancashire and Cumbria and I’m super proud of where I live.” n

To book your adventure: 07476 001539 bowlandandbay.co.uk

A la carte, sandwich and salad menus available all days, except Sunday Lunch Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Saturday 12 – 2pm Tea Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Friday 6-7pm • £14.50 2 courses and £19 courses Sunday Lunch:12 noon – 6.30pm • £24 2 courses £30 3 courses FOOD SERVING HOURS

COME AND JOIN US...

Monday to Tuesday CLOSED

Outdoor seating area for drinks and food.

Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm

10 beautiful bedrooms also available from £94 per night bed and breakfast.

Sunday – 12 noon to 6:30pm

Booking recommended 01200 443339 3 Millstones Inn, Waddington Rd, West Bradford BB7 4SX

@3millstone 3millstones.co.uk

food&drink

VERY SPECIAL The great food, atmosphere, service and beautiful outdoor space at the Black Bull all contribute to the success of the award-winning Black Bull, writes Tedd Walmsley. Photography: Kirsten Platt

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t was all smiles again on my latest visit to the Black Bull Old Langho – met by a beaming Becky holding up a trophy awarded at the recent Ribble Valley business awards – they had won the Hospitality Business of the Year which is a superb accolade and testimony to their continued hard work both in the kitchen and front of house.

You can image the depth of competition in this sector in the valley, and with the bar set so high Becky has decided to give up her successful day job to concentrate on the pub and to oversee the direction and development over the coming months.

She’s loved by all and is an infectious leader and I’m sure will galvanise the entire team and take the pub to even higher levels within the exalted food scene locally.

April last year saw many of you supporting the Bull by utilising the newly created outside space as lockdown rules were still driving the very limited dining options.

That innovative space gives a different dimension to the Bull’s eating options

and will once again come into its own on warmer days and long summer nights.

My trip coincided with more developments to the menu – and out of curiosity I thought I’d have a quick look on Trip Advisor for some recent comments and feedback.

The last six of the best posts to reaffirm my view of the pub and its food, included: ‘Amazing’,‘very special’, ‘5/5’, ‘best Sunday roast for miles’, ‘brilliant’ and ‘no Bull!’

Much has been made of the atmosphere, the surroundings and the super front of house team but let’s not forget the main reason we are all going out – great food, cooked well and in this current market, still representing good value too.

The new menu certainly has something for everyone from light salads to doorstep sandwiches and traditional pub classics.

They sit alongside some fantastic specials such as market fish, served with buttery new potatoes, samphire, crayfish tail and a caper butter sauce.

This is really smart cooking. The sharing boards are becoming legendary with a choice

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of meat, fish and a classic ploughman’s.

I love the fusion dishes too – Thai green curry is perhaps my favourite, which is fragrant and spicy and served with a sticky coconut rice. All in all there’s something for everyone.

THE LAST SIX OF THE BEST POSTS TO REAFFIRM MY VIEW OF THE PUB AND ITS FOOD, INCLUDED: ‘AMAZING’,‘VERY SPECIAL’, ‘5/5’, ‘BEST SUNDAY ROAST FOR MILES’, ‘BRILLIANT’ AND ‘NO BULL!’ Becky, Jamie and the entire team are committed to bringing you fabulous food in a super setting – please support them.

Book a table and go and see what all the fuss is about! n

The Black Bull Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801 enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk BlackBullLangho

TAKEAWAY O P EN TUESDAY – SUNDAY 5PM TILL 9PM LINES OPEN FROM 3PM DAILY

AWARD WINNING CHINESE FOOD

TO TAKE HOME AND ENJOY IN A RELAXED AND EASY WAY SMALL EATS PRAWN CRACKERS CRISPY DUCK ROLLS SALT & PEPPER MUSHROOMS PRAWN TOAST & SEAWEED CRISPY KING PRAWN WONTON HONEY COATED SPICY CHICKEN IN BAMBOO SALT & PEPPER CHILLI SQUID VEGETABLE SPRING ROLL SALT & PEPPER TOFU SALT & PEPPER RIBS SWEET STICKY CANTONESE RIBS PORK WAR TIP GYOZA VEGETABLE GYOZA 1/4 CRISPY DUCK, PANCAKES, CUCUMBER & HOI SIN SAUCE

£3.50 £7.50 £6.50 £7.95 £7.95 £7.95 £8.50 £5.95 £6.95 £8.50 £8.50 £7.50 £6.95 £16.50

SEAFOOD FILLET SEA BASS, GINGER, SPRING ONION SALT & PEPPER CHILLI KING PRAWNS SALT & PEPPER CHILLI SCALLOPS, OYSTER MUSHROOMS STIR FRY KING PRAWN, PAK CHOI

£17.95 £16.50 £15.95 £16.50

PORK SWEET & SOUR PORK £10.50 STIR FRY CHAR SUI PORK BLACKBEAN WITH MIXED PEPPERS £10.50 CHAR SUI PINEAPPLE £10.50 VEGAN SEASONAL VEGETABLE CURRY STIR FRY GEENS SPRING ONION, GINGER & CHILLI SINGAPORE VEGAN VERMICELLI

£9.50

RICE / NOODLES / SIDES EGG FRIED RICE STEAMED RICE PINEAPPLE EGG FRIED RICE SOFT NOODLES CRISPY NOODLES SALT & PEPPER CHIPS

£3.95 £3.50 £5.95 £5.50 £4.95 £4.95

£9.50 £7.95

CHARLIE YU CLASSICS CHICKEN CHOW MEIN CHICKEN CURRY KING PRAWN CURRY SPECIAL FRIED RICE SPECIAL CHOW MEIN CHICKEN FRIED RICE CHICKEN & CHAR SUI VERMICELLI

£12.50 £11.50 £15.50 £12.95 £12.95 £10.50 £12.95

CHICKEN SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN CHICKEN BLACKBEAN SATAY CHICKEN CRISPY CHILLI CHICKEN SALT & PEPPER CHICKEN

£10.95 £10.95 £10.95 £10.95 £10.95

CHILDREN’S MEALS CHICKEN NOODLES WITH BROCCOLI CHICKEN, FRIED RICE SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN & BOILED RICE

£16.50

When ordering please let our staff know that these are children’s meals

BEEF FILLET BEEF CANTONESE FILLET STEAK BLACKBEAN WITH MIXED PEPPERS FILLET STEAK SATAY CRISPY CHILLI STEAK

£8.95 £8.95 £8.95

£16.50 £16.50 £16.50

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.

W H Y NO T E NJOY A MI DW EEK TAKEAWAY 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

ICE CREAM AS IT SHOULD BE Established in 1929, Holdens & Co Ice Cream recently opened its latest shop in Whalley. Gail Bailey chatted to Company Director Lucy Cort to find out more. Photography: Kirsten Platt

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halley is the latest place to be lucky enough to have Holdens & Co Ice Cream in the village centre: “We are excited to be in Whalley,” says Lucy Cort. “We have been made to feel welcome already – it’s lovely to be part of such a vibrant village alongside other good quality independent businesses.”

Holdens & Co are a proud, family run, artisan ice cream maker, who have been

making their famous dairy ice cream from the same site in Edgworth village since 1929. Its history is a lovely story about how the business arrived to be the success it is today.

The business was founded by John and Mary Holden who owned the village shop in Edgworth, where they also sold their homemade ice cream. They used milk from

WE ARE REALLY EXCITED TO BE IN WHALLEY. WE HAVE BEEN MADE TO FEEL SO WELCOME ALREADY, AND IT’S LOVELY TO BE PART OF SUCH A VIBRANT VILLAGE Holstein Friesian cows, which grazed in the fields of a farm less than a mile from the shop – and Holdens ice cream is still today hand made in Edgworth from the same dairy source, and holds the same charm it had over 90 years ago.

John and Mary had three children, and their middle son Jack eventually took over

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the shop from his parents, whilst his elder sister Marion was a local schoolteacher, with younger brother Jim running the farm.

“Jack was quite a local character and some villagers of Edgworth still refer to the shop, and the ice cream, as ‘Jacks’,” explains Lucy.

Marion was the best friend of Lucy’s grandmother, and godmother to her father Richard, and as neither Jack, Marion nor Jim had children, when Jack passed away in 2009, Marion approached Richard about taking over the business: “Marion was always very astute and became a school inspector as well as a teacher,” Lucy says.

“Even now at 93 she is still a force to be reckoned with!”

So, in 2010 Holdens was taken over by the Cort family who continue to cherish

its heritage: “Dad initially kept the business as it was then began to experiment and have fun with different cones, flakes and flavours. We continue to develop and try new ideas, but always maintain the buttery rich flavour and traditional texture we’re famous for,” adds Lucy, who joined the business in 2016, just as a second Holdens ice cream parlour had opened in Haigh Woodland Park.

“I had been working in business development and corporate management, in events and hospitality, when I made the move to the family business,” explains Lucy.

“I thought originally I would be involved in the sales and promotion side, but I am actually more operational and hands-on, running the day-to-day aspects – and I absolutely love it!”

The family then completely refurbished

the original shop adding a deli counter selling local produce, along with a farm and gift shop. As Holdens has expanded over the years they work closely with other local artisan businesses and suppliers, who hold the same charm and business ethos.

It was on a family outing to Whalley that Richard spotted the ‘To Let’ sign on the former Lusso Salon – and they immediately knew it was the perfect spot in the village centre: “We worked with a fabulous spatial designer Sam Tucker who has made the shop look and feel perfect.

We opened on 1st March and were so busy our first weekend – we had an amazing response!” says Lucy.

The award-winning ice cream will always remain at the core of Holdens & Co but there are many other exciting things on the horizon: “We have lots of plans with an extra special doggy-safe ice cream for our four-legged friends, a new website

LOYALTY CARD At Holdens & Co we like to reward good behaviour! We have introduced a Loyalty Card scheme to give our customers a little something back to show our appreciation.

You can choose whether to save up your points for a special occasion or spend them when you next visit. As a card holder you will also be able to enjoy exclusive special offers! To find out more pop into the new Whalley shop.

Some of the tasty ice-cream flavours at Holdens & Co: SALTED CARAMEL COOKIE DOUGH WHITE CHOCOLATE & HONEYCOMB RASPBERRY RIPPLE OREO MANGO SORBET FERRERO

where chocolates, artisan cheeses, wines, hampers and gifts can be ordered and, watch this space, as another shop in Abbey Village will be coming soon!”

There are so many fantastic flavours and treats to try, and a wonderful range of handmade Easter eggs and Crème Egg flavour ice cream ready to enjoy. Crème eggs and ice-cream – the perfect chocolatey Easter combo! n

Holdens & Co 1 Accrington Road, Whalley BB7 9TD 01254 964924 info@holdenandco.com holdensandco.com

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food&drink

BOOTHS

RASPBERRY RHUBARB HIGHBALL Serves 1 Ingredients: 50ml Caorunn Scottish Raspberry

CUCKOO GIN

CUCKOO SIGNATURE SPRING SMASH Serves 1 Ingredients: 50ml Cuckoo Signature Gin

10ml Fresh lime juice

25ml Lemon juice

Fentimans Rhubarb Tonic Water

25ml Sugar syrup

Ice Garnish:

12.5ml Jasmine green tea 8-10 Mint leaves

Fresh rhubarb Raspberries

Method: Fill a highball glass with ice and pour over the gin.

Add the lime juice and top with the tonic water.

Garnish with a strip of fresh rhubarb and a couple of raspberries. booths.co.uk

Method: Add all of the ingredients to a cocktail glass.

Throw in some ice and place metal shaker over the glass.

Shake for 5-10 seconds, dirty pour into a rocks glass and garnish with a sprig of mint. brindledistillery.co.uk

COCKTAIL T I M E These gin cocktails are deliciously fresh and delightfully garnished LYTHAM GIN LYTHAM LADY Serves 1 Ingredients: 45ml Lytham Gin Bee’s Knees 20ml Cointreau 20ml Lemon juice 15-20ml Sugar syrup 1 egg white

RIBBLE VALLEY GIN

PINK CLOVER CLUB Serves 2 Ingredients: Ice cubes Juice of two limes 2 dashes of Grenadine 2 egg whites 150ml Garden Party Gin Strawberry slices, to decorate

Method: Shake ingredients without ice first. Add ice and shake hard for 30 seconds.

Strain with a fine strainer into a coupe glass to create a fantastic foamy cocktail.

Garnish with a slice of dried lime or lemon. sandgrownspirits.co.uk

Method: Put 8-10 ice cubes into a cocktail shaker.

Pour the lime juice, Grenadine, egg whites and gin over the ice and shake until a frost forms on the outside of the shaker.

Strain into two martini glasses.

Decorate each glass with strawberry slices and serve. ribblevalleygin.co.uk

IT’S OUR BIRTHDAY! We are celebrating our 175th Anniversary, look out for new Booths products in store this Summer!

SINGLES SUPPER CLUB IS BACK! With five successful events behind us we are now looking forward to building a programme of dinners and activities for the second half of the year. Contact our host Lynn Scholes on 07753 579745 for more information.

- ARE YOU SINGLE AND OVER 40?

- DO YOU LIKE GREAT FOOD AND GOOD COMPANY?

Next Events

AMICO MIO Book directly 01254 822495 £30 ask for Emmanuele THURSDAY 21ST APRIL 7.15pm – 7.45pm MYTTON FOLD Book directly 01254 240662 £35 (£10 deposit) ask for Jade THURSDAY 12TH MAY 7.15pm – 7.45pm

Please contact supperclubenquiries@live-magazines.co.uk for more details on the club and how to book.

AWARD-WINNING ARTISAN GIN DISTILLED IN LYTHAM, LANCASHIRE Find out more at SandgrownSpirits.co.uk

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food&drink

LUNCH FROM THE SPRING MENU… Tedd and Liz Walmsley enjoy a great value spring lunch overlooking the beautiful gardens at the Gibbon Bridge

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’m not sure there is a better backdrop to have lunch in the Ribble Valley than the Gibbon Bridge on a sunny spring day, so Liz and I jumped at the chance to road test their delightful spring menu in the main restaurant.

On arrival we were shown to our table with the trademark crisp white table linen and beautiful fresh flowers direct from the stunning gardens outside, a feast for the eyes when combined with the view of the gardens and the fell beyond.

Whilst synonymous with incredible weddings, it would be wrong to forget how good the food is at the Gibbon Bridge. The new menu is varied, with a very spring seasonal flavour to it.

In fairness I had to make a short-list from the starters but finally settled on the

legendary potted shrimps with Liz opting for her favourite, salt and pepper squid.

Both were excellent and were served with a basket of homemade bread to mop up the delicious juices and butter.

We were joined briefly by Janet Simpson who told us about the produce from the garden and her passion for using local producers. It’s amazing to think that she has been achieving this level of quality food for nearly 40 years – testimony to her dedication and the support of her team.

Onto the mains and my fillet of hake wrapped in a delicate wild garlic mousse was both light and flavoursome and cooked to perfection. Liz chose the more robust

WINE TASTING Friday 22nd April £300 per couple inclusive of wine, dinner, bed & breakfast or £70 per person wine & dinner only

shin of beef with creamy mash and both our mains were served with a selection of seasonal vegetables – both were superb and devoured with enthusiasm!

We had made sure we left room for a decadent homemade pudding and what a choice we had – all served with either custard, cream or ice-cream (or a combination). Liz opted for a timeless classic of warm apple pie with cream and my sticky toffee pudding was exactly that – sweet, sticky and absolutely delicious.

I also think I need to point out that the new menu is incredible value with one course at £20, two courses £25 and all three for £30 – bread and vegetables are all included in the price so no hidden extras. If time allows mid-week, please visit for lunch or an early supper – like Liz and I you won’t be disappointed. n

WEDDING OPEN DAY Saturday 30th April – 12-3pm Your dream wedding venue!

Join us for a glass of fizz and an informal chat

MUSICAL AFTERNOON TEAS Wednesday – 3.30pm £21 £27.50 with a glass of Prosecco 13th April, 11th May, 15th June, 13th July, 10th August, 14th September Full afternoon tea whilst the pianist plays inclusive of sandwiches, scones, cream & jam, cake & tea or coffee

Gibbon Bridge Green Lane, Chipping PR3 2TQ 01995 61456 gibbon-bridge.co.uk

food&drink

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LOYALTY OFFER A delicious midweek loyalty discount for the seasonal and specials menu.

Applicable Wednesday and Thursday throughout April and May 2022.

Quote ‘Nigel’s email’ or show your Three Fishes email to a member of the team to get: • £5 bill credit at lunch • £10 bill credit at dinner per person.

No restriction on how many times you can use the offer over the next two months.

Terms and conditions apply

running a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant.

The line-up will continue with some of the best chefs in the UK cooking at the Three Fishes.

The pub is also introducing a loyalty offer to say thank-you to customers who have supported the pub since it opened.

THE BEST OF BRITISH A new menu, celebrity guest chefs and rave reviews in the national press – enjoy a taste of success at the Three Fishes.

Photography: Allen Markey

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he Three Fishes is delighted to introduce a new specials menu to run alongside the delightful, ever-changing seasonal menu.

Chef Nigel Haworth has devised the specials menu focusing on his ‘farm to fork’ ethos – it’s a philosophy that has already gained the Three Fishes a flattering review in the latest Michelin guide, The Times has named it among the 30 best places in the country for lunch and the pub has been tipped for stardom in the national press.

The newly introduced specials menu includes a line-up of innovative dishes that feature first class ingredients such as Morecambe Bay oysters with shallot dressing, an aged Hereford beef tartare with parsley pesto and a salt baked yellow beets dish parcel-filled with sea prawn, smoked eel and horseradish with the temptation of Oscietra caviar for the perfect enhancement to an already divine dish.

Equally appealing are the Loch Fyne tempura scallops served with tartar sauce

and pickled cucumber and, among the star dishes is blue grey beef for two – a grilled double rib with Bernaise sauce and signature triple cooked chips.

As always, Nigel has a plant-based offering to suit vegetarian and plant-based guests and a separate dessert menu that diners will find irresistible!

GUEST CHEF NIGHTS

WEDNESDAY, 27th APRIL 2022

With summer approaching, excitement is building as the beautiful Terrace at the Three Fishes takes shape outdoors, where there is seating for 42, an exclusive Chef’s Table and Spanish Charcoa grill. n For more information about the Three Fishes’ seasonal, specials, desserts and Sunday lunch menus or to make a reservation go to: thethreefishes.co.uk or call 01254 826666

Tom Parker Head chef at Michelin-starred 20210816 White Swan at Fence

FATHER’S DAY 19th June Bookings now being taken

WEDNESDAY 4th MAY 2022

reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk

PARKINSON SIGNS

PAGE 02

Aktar Islam Chef director for Opheem, Pulperia & Aktar@home

Nigel’s obsession for supporting culinary talent continues as he announces upcoming guest chef nights at the Three Fishes. Nigel explains: “It’s time we throw open the doors and welcome some familiar faces to our beautiful eco-focused kitchen.”

The first guest chef will be Tom Parker, head chef at the Michelin-starred White Swan at Fence, who was mentored by Nigel and went on to become the youngest sous chef at Northcote.

The second will be Aktar Islam, the only British born chef in the country currently

THE

THE

THREE FISHES

THREE FISHES MITTON

MITTON

The Three Fishes Mitton Road, Mitton BB7 9PQ thethreefishes.co.uk FARROW AND BALL FARROW AND BALL FRENCH GRAY 01254 826666 STIFFKEY BLUE reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk

THE THREE FISHES

FARROW AND BALL FRENCH GRAY

FARROW AND B STIFFKEY BLU

LOGO TREATMENT TM

EMBRACING THE

LANDSCAPE

the Arts Manager for Styal Workshop at Quarry Bank Mill, a National Trust textile museum where she ran textile and arts related programmes for schools and educational visits where pupils could observe traditional and contemporary weaving techniques.

When artist and creative Alice Uren moved to the Ribble Valley, she discovered a painting technique that captured and embraced the stunning landscapes

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orn in Surrey and brought up in Hampshire, it was Alice Uren’s love of art that brought her north – to Nottingham, then Manchester – then on to the heart of the Ribble Valley. Now living in the picturesque village of Chipping with her partner John, Alice has had a career working with creatives across the North West.

She began her working life as a teacher of art: “When I left university it would have been nice to pursue a career as a professional artist but needs must so I went to teacher training college.

“I still managed to continue with my monoprints and still life work, but my career and the world of work took over!” explains Alice, who went on to work as

I CONSIDER THE LANDSCAPE TO BE EMBRACING RATHER THAN OVERPOWERING During her 30 years working full time, Alice has always continued to work within the art world – she has also worked with creative industries across Greater Manchester for an initiative that supported small and medium sized enterprises in start-up and development opportunities.

“I have been very lucky – I have always

arts&culture tried to stick to art and education. I love art I am also very organised so I have been able to apply both those skills in my career,” adds Alice.

She also worked as an assistant officer for Arts and Crafts with Arts Council England North West, a job that involved assessing arts-related applications for grants and lottery funding, also working on regional initiatives such as the two-year ‘Setting Up Scheme’ that helped designer-makers establish themselves as practitioners.

“It’s only during the last few years that I have been able to work part time enabling me to develop my own creative projects and artwork,” says Alice, who moved to Chipping after meeting John, who is the head gardener at Whalley Abbey.

“I love the Ribble Valley! It is the perfect place and we are so fortunate to have this environment around us. I look out of the window and think how I personally could capture the landscape in a painting.

“From where I live I can see Parlick and Wolf Fell, Leagram, Chipping Moss, Longridge Fell and Jeffrey Hill – it’s a 360 degree panorama waiting to be captured.

“For example, one morning I woke up and saw sunrise over Chipping Moss and painted it.”

Alice admits in the early days she struggled to find her own personal painting style, but as the years have gone by, she has developed: “I know quite a lot about different styles of painting and have found it difficult – I have found tension in deciding whether to paint reality, abstract or romantically. As a result, I think my painting is more expressionism – it’s a mix of all these things combined with capturing a place in time, the landscape and the colour.”

Now working as a part time library assistant, Alice has always loved writing and combining this with her creative talent, she has produced a number of small art books featuring beautiful landscapes within the Trough of Bowland.

“I went on an organised walk through the Coronation Meadows just outside Slaidburn last year to celebrate National Meadow Day,” recalls Alice. “The walk also coincided with a collaboration with local poetry and painting groups, so the booklet was really a result of that.”

Other booklets she has produced featured a winter walk around Parlick, Jeffrey Hill and Kemple End – again featuring mixed media including digitally enhanced photography.

WHEN I AM OUT PAINTING I OFTEN LOOK AT THE BIGGER PICTURE – THE BOTANICALS AND PLANTS IN ALL THEIR WONDROUS DETAIL

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A keen walker, Alice is also interested in plants and botanicals in and around the Trough of Bowland and it was during lockdown that she began flower pressing: “When I am out painting, I often look at the bigger picture – the botanicals and plants in all their wondrous detail. Flower pressing is a way of capturing that,” says Alice, who keeps walking journals to record what she sees on country rambles. Looking to the future Alice is set to continue with her art and creativity, which she says is stimulated by her interest in Qigong, an ancient Chinese health and movement technique that she has been involved with for two decades.

“I started classes when I lived in Manchester and now I am lucky enough to have gong bath sessions in our village hall. It is very grounding and really does help with creativity as it focuses attention. The Ribble Valley really is a wonderful place to be,” says Alice, a lifelong vegetarian, who has worked for the Vegetarian Society. “I love going on some of the river walks and through the villages. I consider the landscape to be embracing rather than overpowering.” n

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GOOD READ Lauren Molyneux sits down to read a modern classic that she finds ultimately uplifting, memorable and transformational

The Grapes of Wrath John Steinbeck ‘How can we live without our lives? How will we know it’s us without our past?’

Set in Dust Bowl Oklahoma amidst the era of The Great Depression, The Grapes of Wrath opens with the release of Tom Joad – the novel’s central character – from prison. What we expect will be a story akin to that of the return of the prodigal son, quickly shifts into a narrative which centres around the loss of, rather than the return to, a fixed and personal space.

Arriving to find his beloved home abandoned and his family headed west, having been driven off their land, Tom’s concerns surrounding the challenges of being reinstated into a life of freedom are replaced by fears of dwindling food supplies and the struggle to find work, as he finds himself bound to a life on the road in search of a living and a new home, motivated by his drive to survive.

With governing themes of strength and perseverance, politics, class, prejudice and histories (on both a personal and national level), the novel explores the dynamics of familial relationships and the nature of suffering, taking us on a whirlwind ride of highs and extreme lows to deliver a text that sets the binaries of human cruelty and love against one another and provides a reading experience that is ultimately uplifting, memorable, educational and transformational.

Whilst the story may centre around the idea of loss, in the loss of the home, the loss of personal spaces and authority, the loss of identity, the loss of family (in death, grief and abandonment) and the loss of faith, or a questioning of religion, so much is gained as a result and Steinbeck builds and utilises a charactercentric dialogue to make the broader concepts more accessible, identifiable and understood.

As a writer, Steinbeck accurately translates and captures both male and female spaces in equal measure. However, that being said, The Grapes of Wrath is also a text that is, arguably, a feminist one, with the exploration of female voices, female bodies and female power. When it comes to considering the central theme of human strength and perseverance, we need look no further than Ma, and the text ends with the sister’s reclaiming of her own body in a closing scene which is all at once biblical, mythical, fantastical and powerful.

Even as early as the first page, it isn’t difficult to see why The Grapes of Wrath is considered a modern classic. These simple stories from ordinary people work to uncover and encompass the complex spectrum of the human condition, bringing broad, far-reaching concepts into the discussion whilst retaining a strong sense of humanism at the novel’s core.

With language that sings, characters that live beyond the page, and a plot that rips your heart out, The Grapes of Wrath is one to read, re-read and talk about to everyone who will listen. With all of the uncertainty and fear of the current political and economic climate, it’s a novel which will provide a certain degree of escapism whilst promoting a sense of reflection, and I defy any reader to get through its 470-odd pages and come out of the other side the same person.

DOUG HYDE

Doug Hyde, one of the nation’s best loved artists, is back with a wonderful new portfolio for Spring 2022 Enchanting as ever, the new collection of limited edition prints and sculptures demonstrates once again exactly why his work is so highly thought of and collectible. The engaging characters, timeless themes and vibrant palette of the editions are classic Doug.

Demand is bound to be high for the new artworks so please visit our website or call in to the gallery to see the collection in person.

Original Paintings . Signed Limited Editions . Needleworks . Restoration . Shirt Framing . Canvas Stretching and more 78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3WH 01772 782006 www.longridgegallery.co.uk info@longridgegallery.co.uk @longridgegall /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery

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ON SCREEN

Anna Souroullas takes a look at the latest blockbusters, ready-to-stream films, cinema releases and DVDs

DR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS

CINEMA RELEASE

Release Date: 6th May Director: Sam Raimi Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Patrick Stewart, Rachel McAdams, Elizabeth Olsen and Benedict Wong Certificate:

In this Marvel Studios production, Dr Stephen Strange casts a forbidden spell that opens a portal to the multiverse and pushes its boundaries further than ever before. The threat to humanity that emerges may be too big for him, Wong and Wanda Maximoff to handle. Join Dr Strange and his mystical allies as he crosses through mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities to confront a mysterious new adversary. n

SENIOR YEAR Release Date: 13th May Director: Alex Hardcastle Starring: Rebel Wilson, Alicia Silverstone, Zoe Chao, Sam Richardson and Justin Hartley Certificate:

After falling off a pyramid, a high-school cheerleader ends up in a coma for 20 years. Waking up as a 37-year-old doesn’t stop her from going after the high-school dreams she once had and living the life she wanted to live.

She’s ready and raring to return to high school, regain her status and claim the prom queen crown. n

CYRANO

DVD

Release Date: 19th April Director: Joe Wright Starring: Peter Dinklage, Haley Bennett and Kelvin Harrison Jr Certificate:

Cyrano de Bergerac is in love with Roxanne, but so is Christian. Too selfconscious to woo her himself, Cyrano helps Christian in sharing his feelings for Roxanne. With Cyrano’s help writing love letters, Roxanne falls for Christian, not realising they are in fact the words of another. In this timeless tale, Joe Wright envelopes us in a symphony of emotions as we watch this heart-breaking love triangle. n

7794_COMPOSITE PRESTON DEVELOPMENTS - LIVE MAGAZINE - FULL PAGE_AW.indd 1

17/12/2021 15:18

Grindleton Guide Price £1,250,000

A superb five-bedroom former stone farmhouse set within 16.48 acres of the Forest of Bowland AONB.

Mellor Brow Offers Over £600,000

A spacious, detached property set within a large plot with generous mature gardens located in a popular Ribble Valley village.

Just a short drive from Grindleton, Sawley and Clitheroe this property will appeal to those looking for a smallholding for equestrian or lifestyle purposes or those simply looking for privacy and a home set in a stunning location.

Built in 1968 and offering spacious rooms, this three-bedroom bungalow is perfect for anyone looking to modernise and improve - having stacks of potential!

Haighton Asking Price £850,000

An exceptional, newly constructed and contemporary home with open plan living, five bedrooms and three bathrooms.

Chipping Offers Over £625,000

A detached barn conversion offering huge potential to any buyer.

In a semi-rural location, the property is modern with far-reaching views. Finished to a very high specification with a wealth of the latest technological fittings, it is the ideal property for those who like a rural feel but want to remain close to the main road network.

Set in approximately 1/2 an acre outside Chipping with formal gardens and magnificent views this bungalow with upstairs rooms benefits from flexible and spacious accommodation to include an annexe, double garage and large driveway.

Local expertise, national presence, international audience

FAIRVIEW, BACK LANE, WISWELL, CLITHEROE BB7 9BU

OIEO £995,000

Occupying a substantial yet secluded position in the centre of Wiswell village, Fairview is a beautiful four-bedroom family home. The plot is private and elevated offering long distance views across the Ribble Valley to Longridge Fell and beyond. The house has wide appeal and is ideally located for commuting and local schools being close to both Whalley and Clitheroe. Originally dating from the 1950s this property has been substantially extended and upgraded by the current owners and yet offers further potential for extension subject to planning consent. The property does have planning consent granted for raising the roof structure over the main house to facilitate a loft extension, granted in June 2021. Inspection is advised. EPC – D

OAKLANDS COTTAGE, WYCOLLER ROAD,TRAWDEN, COLNE BB8 8SY

£775,000

Located in the hamlet of Wycoller Country Park, within the Trawden Forest and occupying a quiet yet convenient position, Oaklands cottage is a hidden gem. Extensively re-modelled and improved under the current ownership this property is deceptively spacious extending to 2548 sq ft and internal inspection is recommended. The property is attached and has private gardens and parking to the front and rear. Internally there is a barn door entrance hall, three spacious reception rooms one with mezzanine area and a central dining kitchen. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and a house bathroom. Externally the property has a one-bedroom annexe with great potential for Air BNB / holiday letting or for a dependant relative. Inspection is recommended to fully appreciate what is on offer. EPC – Exempt

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Ribble Valley Hodder Valley East Lancashire

Head Office 119–121 Park Lane, London W1 | +44 (0)20 7079 1515 parklane@fineandcountry.com

Local expertise, national presence, international audience

DRY CLOUGH FARM, SHELFIELD LANE, SOUTHFIELD, BURNLEY BB10 3RF

OIEO £725,000

A truly rare opportunity to purchase a well-maintained smallholding with land extending to approximately 16 acres, new four bay timber barn, double garage and fully modernised four-bedroom farmhouse positioned in an idyllic location with panoramic countryside views.This property has been fastidiously maintained and significantly improved by the current owners and inspection is invited. It is located in a small hamlet of five houses, sharing an excellent communal access road and located within a few minutes of Trawden, the nearby town of Colne and has convenient access to the M65 motorway as well as East Lancashire and West Yorkshire Business centres. EPC – D

PROCTOR COTE FARM,TODMORDEN ROAD, BRIERCLIFFE, BURNLEY BB10 3PN £535,000 A substantial, semi-detached farmhouse formerly one house but now divided into two charming cottages on the outskirts of Briercliffe. Located in a rural setting and finished to a high standard, the cottages are full of character and provide flexible accommodation as either a three-bedroom family house or in the current format as cottages. The property has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and generous living spaces. It is set within a private garden and has ample parking and splendid rural views the property is well place for commuting with the M65 being a short drive away.

Chain Free. EPC – F

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Ribble Valley Hodder Valley East Lancashire

Head Office 119–121 Park Lane, London W1 | +44 (0)20 7079 1515 parklane@fineandcountry.com

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PLANNING HAT TRICK The team at ZMA have done it again and scored a planning hat trick for three sensitive sites

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hree sensitive planning applications approved in three different local authorities for three unique projects, all in the same month – quite an achievement for ZMA. Approval One: This is a super home in the rural open countryside of the Ribble Valley.

Our clients currently live on the site in a converted barn, which had been adapted over time and lost it’s agricultural aesthetic.

Our clients love their site and garden which experiences the most magnificent hillside views across the Ribble Valley. However, they wanted to adapt their home to futureproof the property for themselves, and their family to create an outstanding home with everything they could want from a property.

Our clients have a large family-run local business and are passionate about promoting sustainable business practices, and they decided now is the time to integrate sustainable living into their own personal home.

The proposed design replaces their existing property with a three-storey contemporary, rural home which references the original building but incorporates contemporary features and meets the highest levels of sustainability. The property is an ‘upside-

down house’ with the living spaces on the middle floor connecting to the existing high-level garden. The design includes a hidden courtyard with a swimming pool, gym, bar, living spaces and office wrapping around the courtyard. Various different outdoor terraces have been incorporated to allow the clients to blend indoor and outdoor living despite the weather.

Approval Two: Another lovely home, this time located in the Chorley greenbelt. An existing bungalow currently stands on the site, which our clients have lived in for the last 21 years and has been slowly adapted over time to suit their needs. However, the house had reached the extension limitations for a dwelling on a greenbelt site, and is now in need of a full refurbishment, reconfiguration and extension to accommodate our client’s living requirements. The most suitable option to increase the size of the property, whilst complying with greenbelt planning policy, was to replace the existing dwelling with a high-quality, contemporary, sustainable home. The new dwelling includes a variety of open plan living spaces, a games room, bar, a large open plan home office, double height spaces, double height sliding glass wall to the garden, panoramic views of the open countryside, wrap-around balconies and sun terraces and a sunken, outdoor, entertaining terrace with fire pit.

Approval Three: This is an extension to a house in the greenbelt of Hawkshaw, Bury.

This scheme included an existing three-storey property which had an old cottage out-building and had been identified as a Non-Designated Heritate Asset. The clients wanted to completely re-design the existing dwelling to work for their family of three children who are all under the age seven and to include an annexe for their elderly parents.

The proposal connects the cottage to the main house and incorporates within the accommodation of the main house. The design sensitively re-builds the derelict cottage and attaches it to the main house via a glazed link entrance.

Our clients are quite literally over the moon and are very excited about the next stages when their proposals will be transformed into reality. n

If you have a sensitive site with big aspirations, get in touch to discuss your project in further detail

Zara Moon Architects We transform sites, buildings, and lives.

Unit 37, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01200 403840 enquiries@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

The early years are critical for a child; there is no other stage when they will develop so quickly and the foundations laid in these years shape a child’s academic and personal success for the rest of their life. With excellent education, pastoral care, extra-curricular opportunities and experiences, an Oakhill education will give your child the very best start in life.

If you think your child would flourish here at Oakhill, 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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DISCOVER THE LEONARD DEWS BRIDAL COLLECTION

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