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Dales THE BEST OF HARROGATE, ILKLEY & THE YORKSHIRE DALES I S S U E 11

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY FOR HISTORIC RAILWAY LINE

SEEING THE SEASONS

FROM INTERNATIONAL FASHION TO THE DALES

WALKING, WELLBEING AND WILD SWIMMING

RECONNECT WITH NATURE AT NEW FESTIVAL

WOOLLY WONDERFUL

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CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

10 JOURNEY THROUGH TIME Named by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten most scenic railways in Europe, the Settle-Carlisle railway line is celebrating its 150th anniversary of passenger services. 60 WALKING, WELLBEING & WILD SWIMMING Reconnect with nature at the new Sedbergh Walking & Wellbeing Festival which will be launched in September alongside a new long-distance trail. 74 WOOLLY WONDERFUL Skipton’s annual Yarndale festival draws visitors from across Britain and beyond every autumn to celebrate knitting, yarn and crafts. We explore the festival’s history and success with its co-founders. 122

TUNNING IMAGES INSPIRED BY NATURE S Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust announces winner in photography competition celebrating the landscape, people and wildlife of the area.

124

SEEING THE SEASONS From a high-flying career in international fashion, a worldwide watershed moment led artist Graeme Black to a new home, career and vocation in a quiet corner of the Dales.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 13 HOMES INSIDE OUT 36 FASHION 44 HEALTH & BEAUTY 52 LIFESTYLE 88 EDUCATION 95

BUSINESS

MOTORS

102 FOOD & DRINK 118 SPORT 122 ARTS & CULTURE

128 PROPERTY 130 MY DALES

122

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Late summer and autumn are fantastic times to explore the countryside - as hot summer days give way to cooler weather and enchanting scenery. And in this part of the world there’s one journey that everyone really should try. It’s 150 years since the first passengers began travelling on the Settle-Carlisle railway line. The marvel of Victorian engineering - which includes the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct - has survived despite the odds and today it is a muchloved tourist attraction as well as being a normal working line. In this issue we take a look at the line’s history and the celebrations which are taking place this year. The Settle-Carlisle railway is a fantastic way to enjoy the splendour of the Dales, not to mention the beauty of Cumbria - but of course it is just one way to enjoy the wonderful scenery which makes those areas so special. One of the stops on the historic line is Horton-in-Ribblesdale - which ties in very nicely with a walk we are featuring in this edition. The 14 mile hike to Hawes is classic fell-walking with open moorland - and it features in Steve Garrill’s book The North West Way. In September the public are being invited to reconnect with nature at the new Sedbergh Walking & Wellbeing Festival which will be launched alongside a new long-distance trail. The festival offers a week of guided fell walks alongside wellbeing sessions, wild swimming, evening talks and therapeutic treatments, set in one of England’s most striking landscapes. This is certainly one not to miss! And there are other festivals which are also well worth checking out in September and October. Skipton’s Yarndale Festival will celebrate everything wool and in this edition we talk to the event’s founders. That it’s taking place in Skipton is hardly surprising as the very placename means ‘wool town’. Meanwhile a clutch of big names will descend on Ilkley in October for the town’s annual literature festival - an event which is now nationally renowned. So even though summer may be coming to an end there’s really no excuse to sit at home. There’s so much to see and do in and around the Dales - get out there and enjoy it! Annette McIntyre Editor

The

Dales THE BEST OF HARROGATE, ILKLEY & THE YORKSHIRE DALES I S S U E 11

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LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY FOR HISTORIC RAILWAY LINE

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WALKING, WELLBEING AND WILD SWIMMING

RECONNECT WITH NATURE AT NEW FESTIVAL

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The marvel of Victorian engineering that is the Settle-Carlisle railway line celebrates a landmark anniversary this year. We look back at its history

s a railway that was almost never built and then came very close to closure 100 years later the Settle-Carlisle line has defied

all the odds. Today the iconic route provides one of the UK’s most picturesque railway journeys – so picturesque in fact that it has been named by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten most scenic railways in Europe. After marking 150 years of freight transport last year the railway is now celebrating its 150th anniversary of passenger services. The line’s stunning views are in no doubt – but it also provides a vital service connecting communities between Leeds and Carlisle and providing access to three national parks – the Yorkshire Dales, Westmorland Dales and Lake District National Park. It provides a valuable commuter service and is part of the national rail network with its passenger trains operated by Northern

Rail. It is also a lasting tribute to the men who built it – some of whom lost their lives – and the determined campaigners who fought to save it from closure in the 1980s.

As Settle-Carlisle celebrates its landmark anniversary it’s worth looking back at the highs and lows of its history which earned it the soubriquet the “line that defied all the odds – twice”.

VAST NUMBERS OF NAVVIES WERE NEEDED FOR THE PROJECT AND AT ONE TIME AS MANY AS 6,000 WERE WORKING ON THE SCHEME Born out of a dispute between rival train companies the line was in danger of being scrapped before work had even begun. The Midland Railway Company wanted to extend its network northwards to Scotland but this relied on co-operation from its unco-operative rival the London and North Western Railway, which controlled key routes. As a way of breaking the deadlock the Midland petitioned Parliament for permission to build its own route from Settle to Carlisle. Following the granting of approval in 1866 it changed its mind as the two companies had reached a compromise. But Parliament refused to allow it to back

Photography: John Rowley

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

localfocus

But the public were determined to stop the plan – and a campaign was launched to save the line. As increased publicity led to more passengers, eight stations were reopened to accommodate them. Campaigners won the battle and in 1989 it was formally announced

THE SETTLE-CARLISLE LINE HAS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE IN PEOPLE’S HEARTS. IT IS AN ICONIC LINE, WITH THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SCENERY AND HISTORY that the line had been reprieved. It was revitalised and restored and became a magnet for tourists and railway enthusiasts. Today it offers regular passenger services and occasional heritage steam trains, passing through dramatic landscapes such as the Yorkshire Dales and Eden Valley. With much of its original Victorian

infrastructure still intact, the line is one of the most complete examples of nineteenthcentury railway engineering in Britain. Since the reprieve three organisations have worked to bring about improvement, support local communities and attract new passengers. The Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line – its original saviour – is a voluntary organisation, which supports, promotes and helps to develop the famous route as part of the national network. The Settle-Carlisle Railway Development Company was set up in 1992 to market and promote the line. The Settle & Carlisle Railway Trust was formed in 1990 to preserve the heritage of the line and help restore station buildings. Chair of the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company, Pete Myres, said: “The Settle-Carlisle line has a very special place in people’s hearts. It is an iconic line, with the most beautiful scenery and history. There are many opportunities for people

Photography: Anthony Paul Driver

down and the company was forced to go ahead with the ambitious scheme, which was a marvel of Victorian engineering and which is seen as the last great mainline railway construction in Britain. Scheduled to take four years the challenging project ended up taking six and a half years to complete. Vast numbers of navvies were needed for the project and at one time as many as 6,000 were working on the scheme. The men lived in squalid shanty towns, sometimes with their families. One of the largest temporary camps was on Batty Moss, where more than 2,000 people were accommodated in 100 huts. Working conditions were harsh, with navvies facing extreme weather, dangerous blasting operations and poor sanitation.The project took a huge toll on its workforce and there were more than 100 recorded deaths during construction, more than 80 of them during a smallpox epidemic. By August 1875 the Settle-Carlisle Railway opened for goods traffic, with the first regular passenger train setting off in May 1876. The line quickly became an important route to Scotland but by the mid 20th century, its profitability had declined and it became increasingly vulnerable to closure. The Beeching Report in 1963 signalled the deathknell for many lines and stations. And although the Settle-Carlisle line was not axed it was judged to be uneconomical, with the result that its stopping trains were withdrawn in 1970. By the late 70s Settle and Appleby were the only stations still open on the line. Freight traffic stopped amid competition from cheaper road haulage – and in the early 1980s British Rail announced its intention to close the line.

localfocus

Photography: Robert Avery

A number of celebratory events have been staged throughout the year – and on 3rd October the public are being invited to travel on a steam train with heritage carriages from Bradford Foster Square to the Border City of Carlisle. “Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company Ltd has commissioned the steam charter train to give people the opportunity to travel as passengers did in bygone eras – so bring your travel blankets and dress for travel on an original historic carriage, pulled by steam from the West Coast Railways’ pool of heritage carriages and engines,” a spokesperson said. The development company has also

launched ‘Traxplorer’ – an interactive app showing passengers the landmarks and places from Carlisle to Leeds. And a play has also been commissioned to mark the anniversary. Author of Lives Along the Line Joan Barnard said: “It is clear from my research that the story of the Settle Carlisle Railway is full of drama, from its construction, through its long service in the days of steam, to the ultimately successful battle to save it from closure. “We hope that ‘Lives Along the Line’ will do justice to these achievements and particularly to the many who made them possible.” n

Photography: Anthony Paul Driver

to get involved and enjoy celebrating our 150th anniversary.” Karen Morley-Chesworth, Settle Carlisle Railway CRP Officer added: “As we mark 150 years of passenger services on the Settle-Carlisle line, we’re reminded that this railway has always been about more than transport. It’s about connection. “Through our work as a Community Rail Partnership, we are ensuring the line continues to serve everyone, supporting inclusive, sustainable travel and bringing communities together. And 150 years after the first passenger service, the line today continues welcoming tourists and locals and is beneficial for all who live in and visit our area.”

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kitchen. Reconfiguring the ground floor also meant we needed a first-class builder. The team at Clearly Interiors told us they could help with all of that.” Working with Clearly Interiors designer Becca Lowcock, company owner Paul Capstick, who lives near to Philip and Brenda, embraced the challenge, project managing the ambitious transformation from concept through to completion. The original layout featured a modest 8ft by 12ft kitchen accessed from the hallway, complete with dated light wood cabinets, a black vinyl worktop and a glazed door leading into an old conservatory. While basic and functional, it lacked space and flow. Becca’s vision was to create a contemporary, open-plan living area perfectly suited to

DREAM DELIVERED A complete home transformation demonstrates how Clearly Interiors brought an ambitious renovation to life, through expert design and skilled project management. Photography: Kirsten Platt

hen Philip and Brenda Acheson-Gray bought their dormer bungalow in Higherford two years ago, they knew they were taking on much more than a decorating project. The property

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WHAT WAS ONCE A SERIES OF DISCONNECTED, DATED ROOMS HAS BECOME A LIGHT-FILLED HOME DESIGNED AROUND MODERN LIVING “We had heard about Clearly Interiors through word of mouth, so we called into the showroom,” recalls Philip, who works for Farmhouse Biscuits. “We were asked what we were looking for and we said, ‘Everything!’ We literally needed someone who could project manage from top to bottom. The house needed rewiring, plumbing, a new conservatory, new flooring, new bathrooms and a new

modern life. The kitchen was combined with the rebuilt conservatory which now runs the full width of the property. “We love sitting in the conservatory, so that was really important to us,” says Philip. Now the extended conservatory is seamlessly integrated into the open plan kitchen, flooding the space with natural light. A custom-built media wall takes pride of place in the living room which has two glazed doors adjoining the elegant, new Bauformat kitchen finished in sophisticated Black Burned

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cabinetry, beautifully complemented by predominantly Glacier White Corian work surfaces. A generous island incorporates a complementing breakfast bar with a co-ordinating large dining table – both in Black Burned. This provides the ideal gathering place for family meals and celebrations. A matching slim bar also features decorative glass hangers. The kitchen’ s practical working area features premium Neff appliances including two integrated ovens, integrated fridge/freezer, an integrated dishwasher, washing machine, downdraft induction hob and wine cooler. A striking wall of floor-to-ceiling cabinetry incorporates a clever pull-out spice cupboard and spacious larder unit, ensuring everything has its place.

For Brenda, who enjoys baking and cooking, the new kitchen has transformed everyday life. “The family have definitely placed their booking for Christmas Day here!” laughs Philip. The renovation extended far beyond the kitchen. An understairs area has been converted into a downstairs WC while an existing study has created an additional new bedroom and modern en-suite shower featuring large-format, floor-to-ceiling tiles, adding both comfort and practicality. Upstairs, the outdated bathroom was completely removed and replaced with a stylish, contemporary walk-in shower, bath and basin all finished with elegant floor-toceiling tiling, creating a bright, luxurious space. With such an extensive renovation underway, Philip and Brenda temporarily moved out of the property while work progressed. However, throughout the project, communication remained a priority: “The team constantly kept us updated,” says Philip. “They kept in touch to keep us up to speed.” Now settled back into their beautifully transformed home, Philip and Brenda are delighted with both the finished result and the journey that has brought it to life. What was once a series of disconnected, dated rooms has become a light-filled

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project management that ensured every stage ran smoothly. For the couple, choosing Clearly Interiors proved to be one of the best decisions they made: “We would most definitely recommend Clearly Interiors,” Philip concludes. “Without a doubt they had everything covered and were extremely efficient.” Designer Becca, who with Paul was delighted with the end result, adds: “It was a big project but we enjoyed every minute – we loved working with Philip and Brenda. Their home has been transformed and like them, we are very happy with the design and layout, which works perfectly for them.” For Philip and Brenda, their dormer bungalow now reflects exactly what they had hoped for from the beginning - a beautiful, welcoming home that has been thoughtfully designed for the next chapter of family life. n

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Stunning Transformation Our clients chose Kitchen Design Centre because they wanted a dedicated expert to lead the way, rather than a mere supplier of parts. They required a team to guide them from the first spark of an idea to the final finishing touches. The brief presented a unique challenge - transforming a blank-canvas garage into a space that celebrated the charm of a traditional barn conversion. The room, featuring expansive wooden beams, demanded a thoughtful design. More than just a kitchen, the clients required a family-oriented living hub with a dining area tailored for entertaining. Working with Simon, the Manager at our Barrowford showroom, provided total peace of mind. He spent time listening and meticulously exploring various layouts until the vision felt just right. The result is a traditionally-styled kitchen filled with modern gadgets. The breathtaking Dark Blue Shaker cabinetry serves as a bold anchor, paired with light-toned units to accentuate the warmth of the timber beams and flooring. As keen cooks, the clients opted for high-tech, self-cleaning Neff ovens, a Quooker Flex tap and a premium Blanco sink. Project management was described as ‘spot on’ by the couple who commented: “We looked at an empty garage and couldn’t quite see how it would ever become the heart of our home. Simon took that blank canvas and created something spectacular. It looks like a traditional part of the barn, but it’s packed with all the modern gadgets we could ever need.” Our fitters ensured a seamless installation, completing a puzzle where every piece - from the lighting to the chairs - fits perfectly, to create a stunning heart of the home kitchen.

Designer Simon Thomas says: “It was an absolute pleasure to work with Andrew and Katharine, bringing their vision for a blankcanvas garage into a vibrant, familyoriented space. Transforming an unused room with character was a rewarding challenge to overcome and I’m thrilled we could seamlessly blend that traditional rustic charm with the very best in modern kitchen technology.”

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homesinsideout requires minimal preparation and creates a beautifully soft, matt finish. Neutral shades such as sage green, warm cream, soft grey or muted blue suit both traditional and contemporary interiors, while bolder colours can make a striking statement. Finishing with furniture wax or a clear protective lacquer helps preserve the new look for years to come. Repurposing furniture also offers endless creative possibilities. An old ladder can become a stylish blanket rack, vintage suitcases can be stacked to form an unusual bedside table and an unused dresser can be transformed into a drinks cabinet or kitchen storage unit. Wooden crates can become shelving, while an antique sewing machine base can become a bespoke hallway console table. These imaginative updates add personality and create a unique piece of furniture for your home. Restoring furniture is about more than appearance. It reduces waste, supports

TIMELESS REVIVAL Reclaiming old furniture is one of the most rewarding ways to refresh your home while embracing sustainable living

ather than replacing worn or outdated interiors pieces, restoring, repainting and repurposing furniture allows you to create unique items filled with character and history. Whether it’s a vintage chest of drawers, a weathered dining table or a forgotten armchair, every piece has the potential for a new lease of life. The first step in any restoration project is to assess the condition of the furniture. Solid wood pieces are often well worth saving,

even if they appear scratched, faded or chipped. A gentle clean with sugar soap or a specialist wood cleaner removes years of dirt and polish, revealing the true beauty beneath. Loose joints can usually be repaired with wood glue, while small dents and holes can be filled before sanding the surface smooth.

RESTORING FURNITURE IS ABOUT MORE THAN APPEARANCE. IT REDUCES WASTE AND SUPPORTS ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS LIVING Painting is one of the easiest ways to transform old furniture. Chalk paint has become a popular choice because it

environmentally conscious living and often proves far more economical than buying new pieces. Many older items were originally crafted from high-quality hardwoods that are difficult to find in modern mass-produced furniture, making them particularly valuable once restored. The beauty of reclaimed furniture lies in its imperfections. Gentle signs of age, original handles or visible wood grain all contribute to a piece’s individual charm. Rather than striving for perfection, celebrate these unique features as part of the furniture’s story. With a little patience, creativity and care, forgotten furniture can become the standout feature of any room. Reclaiming, restoring, repainting and repurposing not only creates beautiful interiors but also preserves craftsmanship and encourages a more thoughtful approach to decorating the home. n

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Elegant Balance The most sophisticated homes are moving beyond the pursuit of perfection and trend-led styling, favouring spaces rich in character, comfort and personal expression. Luxury today is no longer defined by excess, but by thoughtful design that enhances everyday living through exceptional craftsmanship, timeless materials and interiors that feel both elegant and effortlessly liveable.

At the heart of this evolution is a growing appreciation for sensory design. Rather than viewing furniture as individual pieces, designers create layered interiors where natural timber, richly veined stone, handcrafted ceramics and tactile fabrics work together to create warmth, atmosphere and emotional connection. Contrasting textures, sculptural lighting and carefully selected finishes bring depth and visual interest, resulting in homes that feel curated rather than overly styled. For Richard Mason, Owner and Designer at The Secret Drawer, successful interiors always begin with understanding how people truly want to live. “Every project starts with listening,” he explains. “Before we consider colours or finishes, we take time to understand our clients’ lifestyles, how they use each room and what matters most to them. From handcrafted cabinetry and bespoke furniture to lighting, electrical layouts and spatial planning, every detail needs to work together effortlessly. Once those foundations are established, we layer in the materials, textures and finishing touches that give a home its individuality.” This philosophy shapes The Secret Drawer’s interior design service, guiding clients from the earliest concepts through to completion. Every project begins with an in-depth consultation, either in the client’s home or at one of the showrooms, where designers explore how each space will be used and discuss

“Luxury today is defined by skilled craftsmanship.”

Material Character aspirations, practical requirements, preferred finishes and budget, ensuring every design is tailored to the individual. It’s about creating spaces that feel calm, beautifully balanced and entirely personal. Following approval, clients receive a complete design package, including detailed layouts, lighting, plumbing and electrical plans, alongside a clear schedule of works. Designers oversee the entire process, coordinating every stage while refining the finer details, from worktops, handles and colour palettes to fabrics, soft furnishings and decorative finishes. Each piece of furniture is handcrafted in The Secret Drawer’s Skipton workshop by skilled cabinetmakers. Clients receive regular progress updates and are encourage to visit the workshop to see their furniture taking shape. Bespoke cabinetry is complemented by collaborations with trusted local artisans, including upholsterers, makers of curtains and blinds, artisan lighting specialists, custom hardware makers and creators of handcrafted accessories, resulting in interiors with exceptional depth and individuality. Ultimately, true luxury lies in creating homes that enrich daily life. By combining bespoke craftsmanship, considered planning and beautifully layered materials, The Secret Drawer creates interiors that balance comfort with sophistication, resulting in timeless spaces designed not simply to impress, but to be enjoyed for generations.

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homesinsideout

Rather than filling a room with brand-new furniture, consider mixing treasured family heirlooms or carefully chosen vintage finds alongside modern pieces. This layered approach creates a home with personality and tells a story that’s uniquely yours. Nature continues to influence interior design too, encouraging us to bring the outdoors inside. Organic materials such as marble and natural stone accessories introduce beautiful texture, while handmade ceramics

WARMTH, TEXTURE AND A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA When the countryside begins to glow with autumn colour, our home naturally becomes a place of comfort and retreat

utumn interior trends are set to reflect a desire for warmth, embracing rich, grounding tones, tactile textures and a welcome nod to 1970s-inspired design. Leading the way is a shift away from the cool greys that have dominated our homes for years. Instead, chocolate and cocoa browns are taking centre stage, creating spaces that feel cosy, sophisticated and effortlessly inviting. Layer these deeper

shades with spiced earth tones such as burnt orange, cinnamon, rust and soft sage green to capture the essence of the season while maintaining a timeless appeal.

NATURE CONTINUES TO INFLUENCE INTERIOR DESIGN TOO, ENCOURAGING US TO BRING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE Texture is equally important this season. The secret to creating an inviting room lies in combining different fabrics and finishes that encourage you to slow down and relax. Think chunky wool throws draped over a favourite armchair, sumptuous velvet cushions adding richness to a sofa and soft bouclé upholstery bringing warmth and depth to seating. These tactile elements instantly make a room feel more welcoming without the need for a complete redesign. There’s also a growing appreciation for vintage style, with interiors taking inspiration from the 1960s and 70s. Curved furniture, warm mid-century woods and statement burl wood pieces are making a strong comeback, adding character and craftsmanship to contemporary homes.

add an artisanal touch. Simple arrangements of dried eucalyptus, pampas grass or seasonal foliage provide effortless decoration that lasts throughout the season and complements the earthy colour palette perfectly.

The beauty of this autumn’s trends is their versatility. Whether you introduce a handful of velvet cushions, invest in a statement chocolate-brown armchair or refresh your styling with natural materials and vintage accessories, each addition contributes to a home that feels warm, welcoming and wonderfully lived in. Ultimately, this season is all about creating interiors that offer comfort, celebrate craftsmanship and invite us to embrace slower, more relaxed living as autumn settles in. n

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CREATIVE LANDSCAPES Photography: Kirsten Platt

Experienced landscape designer Richard Worth has joined Bannister Hall, bringing creativity, expertise and innovation to homeowners across the Ribble Valley

here is something wonderfully fitting about Richard Worth’s career journey. A film studies graduate, who switched direction to become an award-winning garden designer, Richard has followed a path that has been anything but conventional. Now, having joined Bannister Hall last month, his experience is being put to work as the company’s new design co-ordinator, helping homeowners turn their ideas into beautifully considered outdoor spaces.

of the industry while gaining experience in the creative art of designing and delivering prestigious projects.

“I shared a unit with a friend, who was a vertical garden specialist while I was a designer and landscaper,” he says.

He subsequently launched his own landscaping business, designing and building gardens across the capital. His reputation grew, eventually leading to a highly successful specialism – creating award-winning beer gardens and outdoor spaces for brewing giant Heineken, who earmarked Richard as their designer of choice.

Four years ago, Richard and his family made the decision to move north. He began working for a prestigious Cheshire landscape business while living in Manchester, but Bannister Hall had already begun to attract his attention.

IT’S A SEAMLESS, JOYFUL PROCESS DESIGNED TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF LANDSCAPING AND REPLACE IT WITH EXCITEMENT AND CONFIDENCE

“My career to date has grown very organically,” explains Richard.

“It was very niche, but it absolutely took off,” recalls Richard, whose career continued to evolve.

After university, Richard spent some time working as a young labourer for a landscaping business in Hackney, London. It was here that he learned the practical side

As a designer working in London and with a growing family, Richard joined forces with other creatives to develop a shipping container yard in Hackney.

“With my work I had heard about Bannister Hall and to be fair, I did a bit of exploration and realised just how much they had developed the plant growing and the design and landscape side of the business. It is amazing!” For Richard, one of the biggest attractions is the sheer breadth of plants and landscaping materials available on site. “Having all these wonderful home-grown plants and landscaping materials that are tangible, gives so much freedom to me as a designer,” he says. That combination of creativity, horticultural expertise and physical products is central to Bannister Hall’s expanding design proposition. While Bannister Hall has been established for many years, the company’s state-of-the-art Landscaping Design Centre

homesinsideout

opened its doors last year, bringing together the comprehensive materials showroom and extensive outdoor plant nursery with an immersive virtual reality 3D garden design service.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Bannister Hall is home to thousands of plant species, from instant hedging and ornamental trees to shrubs and fruit trees. Homeowners can also explore natural stone and porcelain paving, decking, sleepers, pergolas, decorative aggregates, water features, lighting and much more.

THE VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE IS FABULOUS FOR US AS DESIGNERS BUT EVEN BETTER FOR OUR CLIENTS WHO CAN SEE THEIR NEW GARDEN COME TO LIFE Working in the Design Centre, Richard is particularly enthusiastic about the technology available to landscape designers: “The VR (virtual reality) experience is fabulous for us as designers but even better for our clients who can see their new garden come to life. It streamlines the design process making it so easy.” As design co-ordinator, Richard works closely with clients, project managers and contractors, helping ensure the creative vision remains at the heart of every project from initial concept through to completion. For Bannister Hall CEO Jon C Hollywood LLB (Hons), that personal approach is fundamental to the company’s philosophy: “The ethos is simple, to provide homeowners with true peace of mind. This isn’t about a mere transaction – it’s about creating a trusted partnership.” The journey begins with a professional home site visit, followed by a visit to the Design Centre where clients can explore materials, discuss ideas and experience

their proposed garden through immersive 3D virtual reality. “It’s a seamless, joyful process designed to take the stress out of landscaping and replace it with excitement and confidence,” says Jon. It is a proposition that reflects Bannister Hall’s evolution over more than 25 years. From its roots as a one-stop landscaping supplies centre, the business now combines building materials, paving, decking, timber, decorative aggregates, topsoil, turf and plants with specialist horticultural and design expertise. As Jon explains: “Our point of difference isn’t simply selling everything a landscaping project requires but providing tailored creative solutions and expert horticulturalist advice for any garden or landscaping project irrespective of scale.” For homeowners, the result is a genuinely joined-up service and with designer Richard

Worth now part of the team, Bannister Hall has added another layer of creative experience to an already comprehensive service. n

Bannister Hall Ltd Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087 sales@bannisterhall.co.uk bannisterhall.com Business Hours Open Monday – Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm Free on-site parking everythingplants.co.uk

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homesinsideout Inside the home, continue the Halloween theme – dress your dining table with a black or orange tablecloth, decorative pumpkins and autumn foliage. Candles, lanterns, and fairy lights help create a cosy ambience while maintaining the spooky mood. Replace everyday cushions with Halloweenthemed designs featuring bats, pumpkins or ghosts and add cosy throws in autumn colours such as burnt orange, deep red and mustard yellow. If you’re hosting a Halloween party, create themed areas throughout your home. A cauldron filled with sweets makes an eye-catching centrepiece, while spooky signs and sound effects add to the atmosphere. Consider serving treats on

SPOOKY INTERIORS Halloween has become one of the most exciting times of the year in the UK, with families, neighbours and communities embracing spooky decorations

hether you’re planning a haunted house, welcoming trick-or-treaters or simply getting into the Halloween spirit, decorating your home can be both creative and fun. Start with your home’s exterior as this creates the first impression for visitors. Hang a seasonal wreath featuring pumpkins, autumn leaves or ribbons on your front door. Add carved pumpkins or realistic pumpkin lanterns along the doorstep and place LED candles inside for a warm, flickering glow. String orange, purple or white lights around your porch or windows to create an inviting yet eerie atmosphere. Cobwebs are a Halloween classic and can instantly transform fences, bushes and

doorways. Stretch artificial spider webs across railings and corners, then add plastic spiders for extra effect. Skeletons, witches, ghosts and black cats are popular decorations that can be displayed in the garden or peeking through windows to surprise passers-by.

DECORATING YOUR HOME FOR HALLOWEEN IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON AND BRING SMILES TO FAMILY, FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS themed platters and decorating drinks with novelty stirrers. For families with young children, focus on fun rather than frightening – friendly pumpkins, smiling ghosts and colourful bunting can make the home festive without being too scary. Craft projects such as homemade paper bats, painted pumpkins or decorated jars are enjoyable activities that children can help create. Remember to prioritise safety when decorating. Use battery-operated candles, ensure pathways remain clear for trickor-treaters and secure outdoor decorations against autumn winds. Decorating your home for Halloween is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and bring smiles to family, friends and neighbours. With a mix of traditional decorations, creative ideas and a little imagination, you can transform your home into a delightfully spooky space that everyone will enjoy. n

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THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON SKIN CANCERS

Mohs surgery • Single-visit surgical treatment • Local anaesthetic • Lab work done while you wait • Smallest possible scar • 99% cure rate for a primary skin cancer

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had a small blemish on my forehead that was worrying me. My daughter had been saying to get it checked because it had started bleeding and had got a bit bigger. “I went to my GP, who thought it was a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). She said she could put me on the waiting list to have it removed on the NHS. It only sunk in afterwards that I probably had a skin cancer, and I decided to get it treated straight away. I called Discover Laser because they’ve looked after my skin before. “After a consultation confirmed my GP’s diagnosis, I was scheduled for Mohs surgery with Dr Aslam at Discover Laser just two weeks later. “On the day of my surgery, I received the usual warm welcome and was settled into their lovely waiting area. I wasn’t in the least bit nervous because I knew I was in the right hands and knew what would be happening. “Dr Aslam removed my BCC in stages. Each time, he took the smallest amount of skin and biopsies were done to check if any cancer cells were left. I had three stages altogether to make sure they were all gone. I didn’t feel any pain at all, thanks to the local anaesthetic. “During surgery, I felt completely at ease. I chatted with the surgical assistants and even got to choose what music I listened to, which was lovely. Afterwards, Dr Aslam stitched me up, and I was allowed to go home. It was a long day, but I didn’t feel anxious because I was so well cared for, and my daughter was with me. “After three days, when my daughter took the bandage off, I was shocked to see the size of the wound compared to the size of the BCC, but I do know they travel under the skin. “We followed the aftercare instructions, and I had no problems with infection. I did have some bruising and two black eyes, but the swelling was minimal. I went back to the clinic to have my stitches out, and their nurse, Deborah, did it with a great deal of care and with no pain at all.

Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers – one Discover Laser patient explains why the procedure gave her such peace of mind after a recent diagnosis

BCC before surgery - white circle indicates total removal area.

Five days after Mohs surgery

“Since then, the wound has carried on improving. I had some numbness, which Dr Aslam said might last 12 months, but that has gone. At my three-month follow-up with Dr Aslam, he was pleased with how the surgery had gone and how I’d looked after the wound. I was surprised but very grateful to be given a thorough, full-body skin check to make sure there were no other areas of concern. “I was told it would take 12 months for the pinkness to fully fade, but it’s already looking so much better. Now, eight months later, my scar is hardly noticeable. This is down to Dr Aslam’s skill as a surgeon and Discover Laser’s brilliant aftercare. “Mohs surgery has given me peace of mind that there is only a one per cent chance of my BCC returning. The only thing to remember now is to wear factor 50 sun protection. “I can’t say how grateful I am for the procedure. If you have a skin concern, I would recommend 100 per cent to go to Discover Laser for the best treatment possible. “You know you are in professional hands, cared for, comfortable, reassured and you will be welcomed by the lovely, friendly team.” ■

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Eight months after Mohs surgery

NOW, EIGHT MONTHS LATER, MY SCAR IS HARDLY NOTICEABLE. THIS IS DOWN TO DR ASLAM’S SKILLS AS A SURGEON AND DISCOVER LASER’S BRILLIANT AFTERCARE. ~ DISCOVER LASER PATIENT, RIBBLE VALLEY ~

TO BOOK A DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATION call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 To find out more about treatment visit: discoverlaser.co.uk

health&beauty If you’re training regularly, a useful guide is around 1.4 to 2.0g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. For someone weighing 60kg, that’s roughly 84 to 120g across the day. And it doesn’t all need to come from chicken, fish or eggs. Lentils, beans, tofu, edamame, peas, nuts, seeds and wholegrains all contribute too. A few grams here and there really do add up.

NOBODY WANTS TO SPEND A SPECIAL DAY FEELING BLOATED And carbohydrates absolutely have their place too. Oats, sweet potatoes, rice, sourdough and fruit give you the energy to train properly and get something out of those sessions. Then think about what goodness you can add. Colourful vegetables, berries, legumes, herbs and spices bring vitamins, minerals, fibre and polyphenols to the table. And I promise you, when you’ve got an outfit you cannot wait to wear, good digestion matters. Nobody wants to spend a special day feeling bloated and uncomfortable.

NUTRITION WITH KELI Expert Keli Thompson explains how you can achieve the feelgood countdown to a big event with great nutrition

e’ve all done it. There’s a big event in the diary, you’ve found the outfit (or you’re desperately searching for it) and suddenly you’re thinking, ‘I want to feel REALLY good for this’. Maybe you’d love

to lose a little body fat, feel tighter, have more definition or simply not worry about bloating on the day. Having something exciting in the diary can be the best incentive to really dial things up.

EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, AVOCADO, NUTS, SEEDS AND OILY FISH PROVIDE ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS THAT HELP KEEP YOUR SKIN LOOKING HEALTHY AND HYDRATED Now, before your mind goes to cutting everything out, we are absolutely not spending the next few weeks living on salads and ditching carbohydrates. There is a much better way to do this. Because I don’t just want you looking good in that outfit, I want you feeling absolutely amazing in it too. First, let’s talk body composition. If you want to lose a little body fat or see more definition, eating less and less is not the answer. Protein and fibre are two things I’d really focus on here. Protein helps maintain muscle, supports recovery and helps keep you fuller, while fibre rich foods support satiety, your gut microbes and digestion.

And let’s not forget those all-important healthy fats for that lovely healthy glow. Extra virgin olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds and oily fish provide essential fatty acids that help support your skin barrier and retain moisture, keeping your skin looking healthy and hydrated. Now, this is the bit I really want you to take on board. Give yourself four to six weeks if you can. Use the event as motivation but make it something you can maintain afterwards too. Then when the next invitation lands, you’ve already got it covered and can just get excited, put on the outfit and enjoy yourself knowing you already feel good. If you’re thinking, ‘Okay, I love this, but I wouldn’t know where to start’ let me take the stress out of it for you. I’ll plan your four weeks nutritionally and make it work around you and your lifestyle, so all you need to do is put it into practice. n Find out more at: nutritionwithkeli.com.

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IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE Broughton Sanctuary invites you to reconnect with nature and rediscover yourself with forest bathing, yoga, wild swimming and restorative retreats

here is something about autumn that encourages us to slow down. As the days become shorter and the landscape shifts through russet, gold and green, nature seems to offer a gentle reminder to pause, breathe and reconnect. Perhaps this is the perfect time to discover a different kind of escape, one that doesn’t require travelling too far. Just outside Skipton, an extraordinary transformation has been taking place across 2,500 acres. For more than 900 years, the Tempest family has called this place home. Today, Roger Tempest is guiding the sanctuary through an exciting new chapter, reimagining it as a place centred around nature recovery, wellbeing and human connection. The philosophy is simple – by helping to restore the land, we can also restore something within ourselves. This is the thinking behind the sanctuary’s rewilding journey. Woodland, wetlands, wildflower meadows and natural habitats

are being given space to recover, creating a richer and more biodiverse landscape. But this isn’t a project that asks you to simply stand back and admire nature. It invites you to step into it. Broughton Sanctuary’s retreats take this philosophy one step further, combining the restorative power of nature with experiences designed to nourish mind, body and spirit. Yoga is at the heart of many retreats, creating space to move, breathe and find stillness, surrounded by the sanctuary’s beautiful landscape. Forest bathing invites you to slow down and become immersed in the woodland, noticing the scents, sounds and changing light around you, while wild swimming offers an invigorating connection with the elements, followed by the warmth of the woodland sauna. There are also opportunities for moon bathing beneath the night sky. Imagine being wrapped up in cosy blankets, breathing in the fresh air, surrounded by stunning landscapes

and moorland heather. Woodland dining and Fire Temple experiences take retreat guests beyond the traditional idea of wellness and out into nature in its truest sense. At the heart of the experience is Avalon, a state-of-the-art wellbeing centre offering an indoor pool, sauna and steam alongside more immersive therapies. Float tank therapy, the Somadome and crystal light therapy provide further ways to switch off, relax and restore. Wellbeing is about more than movement and mindfulness. Gut health is an important part of the process too, with nourishing plant-based food at Utopia helping to support the body from within. Set within a beautiful walled garden, its contemporary, floor-to-ceiling glass allows you to take in the stunning gardens, while enjoying the culinary delights on offer. You don’t have to travel far to escape the noise of everyday life, with Broughton Sanctuary on your doorstep, we invite you to lose yourself in the woodland, breathe in the Yorkshire air, and take time to truly immerse yourself in this magical place. Rewilding is not only about restoring the landscape, it’s about remembering that we are part of nature too. n

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health&beauty skin examination allows suspicious moles or lesions to be assessed before they become more serious, often leading to better outcomes. People with fair skin, a history of sunburn, large numbers of moles, previous skin cancers or a family history of melanoma should be particularly vigilant.

SUMMER OF SUNSHINE Consultant dermatologist and specialist in Mohs surgery, Dr Arif Aslam explains why you should look at skin health and get any concerns checked out

fter a summer of prolonged heatwaves, many of us have spent far more time outdoors than usual.

Whether relaxing in the garden, playing sport or simply making the most of the warm weather, our skin has been exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than in a typical British summer. Consultant dermatologist and Mohs micrographic specialist Dr Arif Aslam believes the end of the summer is the perfect opportunity for people to take stock of their skin health and arrange a professional examination.

Dr Aslam is one of the UK’s leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. He has undertaken advanced fellowship training in Australia and worked in New Zealand, countries recognised worldwide for their expertise in skin cancer prevention. Although many people associate sun damage with holidays abroad, UV exposure builds up over time. Everyday activities can all increase the risk of skin cancer. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Dr Aslam advises people to become familiar with their skin so they can spot changes: “The signs to look for

THIS HIGHLY SPECIALISED TECHNIQUE OFFERS THE HIGHEST CURE RATES FOR MANY SKIN CANCERS WHILE PRESERVING AS MUCH HEALTHY TISSUE AS POSSIBLE He says: “Most of the time the UK climate sees our skin being covered. But with the heat waves over the summer, skin has been exposed. If you notice any changes in freckles or moles it’s time to get a full skin check.”

are new moles or any changes in existing ones – in diameter, colour, or if they are itchy – watch out for non-healing sores too.” Early diagnosis is one of the most important factors in successfully treating skin cancer. A full-body

Dr Aslam provides comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment and is one of only a small number of dermatologists in the UK and Europe to have completed fellowship training in Mohs micrographic surgery. This specialised technique offers the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr Aslam adds: “Every week in my clinic, the same scenario plays out. A patient walks in assuming a routine skin check is merely an over-cautious chore. Too often, they are surprised when a small, unremarkable blemish turns out to be an early melanoma.”

Who else sits firmly in the high-risk tier? • Men and women with a high mole count: Having had numerous moles as a young adult remains one of the strongest predictors of future melanoma. • T he fair-complexioned profile: Anyone with red or light blonde hair, blue or green eyes, pale skin that burns instead of tans and heavily freckled shoulders. • Patients with ‘sunspot’ history: If you have had solar keratoses frozen off or non-melanoma skin cancers removed, your skin has already demonstrated significant UV damage. • A family history: Having a first relative who had melanoma significantly elevates vulnerability. The critical insight from modern dermatology is that early melanoma rarely hurts, bleeds, or announces itself loudly. It quietly evolves.

IF YOU FALL INTO THESE HIGH-RISK BRACKETS, IF YOU ARE A MAN OVER 50 WHO HAS NEVER HAD A SKIN EVALUATION, DO NOT WAIT FOR AN OBVIOUS WARNING SIGN The data behind who is truly at risk is clearer than ever. Groundbreaking findings from the QSkin Study, tracking over 40,000 Australians, show that people with the highest statistical risk have no idea they are high-risk.

If you fall into any of these highrisk brackets, especially if you are a man over 50, do not wait for an obvious warning sign. A routine, head-to-toe check takes only 15 minutes, but catching a melanoma while it is still thin makes it almost entirely curable.

Dr Aslam emphasises that one group stands out above all others – men aged 50 and older: “Men in this demographic face a disproportionately high risk of developing invasive melanoma and suffering poorer outcomes. They often accumulate decades of ambient sun exposure across the scalp, neck and back – areas hard to monitor in the mirror – and tend to delay seeking medical attention until a lesion becomes thick or symptomatic.”

Following a summer of exceptional sunshine, a professional skin check can provide reassurance – or ensure that any problems are treated early. For anyone with concerns, now is the time to have your skin assessed. n Call Claire on 01282 348434 or email: contact@drarifaslam.com drarifaslam.com

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PICN ICS , PL ITA AN T T H LIA S A E SU NR ND OO PERMMER TS, FEC ED LA MAR T DA IT CEL NCAS YS L A’S HIR LIM E SP ONC IRIT CHO ELL RLE FLOW EMM O Y FL ER AB OW POW OOT ER H TA BU SHOER LKS SINE W FAM SS H ILY VALOUR U

Whilst you might tell the kids about the fairies who inhabit the woods, they also have another more sinister tale to tell. But we’ll have to head right to our starting point in Grassington to find out more about that. Grassington may be one of the best-known places in the Dales. Even if you’ve never set foot inside the pretty market town, you might have heard of All Creatures Great and Small, which is filmed there or the Calendar Girls, which originated down the road in Rylstone. Aside from its celebrity associations, Grassington is a fantastic hub to start and end a family walk! From the picture-perfect cobbled streets of the market square, why not grab yourself an ice cream before you set off? Fuelled by those tasty treats, head up the main street to Tom Lee’s smidy. Now, here’s that bit of horrible history. ‘Notorious’ Tom Lee was a

EXPLORING GRASS WOODS Who’s up for an adventure through one of the Yorkshire Dales’ rarest ancient woodlands? Because with the seasons beginning to shift, these woods really begin to glow. Samantha Brown from the Reluctant Explorers tells us more

f you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big adventure! Admittedly, the chance to explore some ancient woodland is a rarity in the Yorkshire Dales, with only 5 per cent of the national park having any at all, but Grass Woods is fabulous to explore with the kids, because there are so many exciting things to spot along the way. This family-friendly walk really comes to life in the late summer and early autumn, when the leaves begin to take on that golden-green tone and the fungus comes out to play. And who doesn’t love hunting down some fly agaric? Because when it comes to toadstools, those vibrant red spotty mushrooms are SURELY where the fairies come to sit and put their feet up!

local landlord and blacksmith and whilst parts of this legend are likely to be rooted a little more in the fiction category, what

TOM LEE WAS CONVICTED OF THE MURDER OF THE LOCAL MEDIC, DR RICHARD PETTY AND THE STORY GOES THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO HIDE FROM HIS CAPTORS IN A CAVE NEARBY we do know is that his notoriety came from his dastardly deeds as a highwayman. Tom Lee was convicted of the murder of the local medic, Dr Richard Petty and the story goes

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that he attempted to hide from his captors in a cave nearby. This walk will take you right past it, visible from the path as you reach the entrance of Grass Woods. Whether you tell the kids the fairy tales or the horrible history is your choice, but as you enter the ancient woodland, it’s not just legends that you will face. There’s a prehistoric settlement and the ruins of an ancient Brigantian hill fort too. Admittedly, there isn’t a lot left to see after nearly two thousand years, but it is a cool place to stop by and we’ve spotted deer here too. As far as nature goes, that’s not all there is to offer! Keep your ears pricked for the sound of woodpeckers, spotted flycatchers, goldcrests and the wide range of other species found in the trees.

THERE’S A PREHISTORIC SETTLEMENT AND THE RUINS OF AN ANCIENT BRIGANTIAN HILL FORT TOO As you head out of the woodland, you’ll reach the edge of the River Wharfe, which is the perfect spot to skim some stones and soak up the sun before your return along the riverside. Before you reach Grassington, check out Ghaistrill’s Strid. This narrowing of the river into two limestone passages creates an area of rocky rapids as the water is forced through the channels. Impressive to see when the river is high! When it’s low and calm, adrenaline-seeking swimmers have been known to swoosh down it, although it’s not something we would attempt with the kids. The use of the word ‘strid’ is derived from the word ‘stride’ and relates to the short

distance between the two rocky edges. But don’t get this one confused with the deadly Bolton Abbey version, that is certainly not an area for swimming! From the riverside head back into Grassington and check out some of the brilliant independent cafes and shops, perhaps to spend some pocket money! Or maybe a stop at the Devonshire, aka the iconic ‘Drovers Arms’ from All Creatures Great and Small is on the cards? Its tempting beer garden is perfect to soak up some of the last of those warm sunny rays, before taking the kids to the play park. The ideal way to end an adventure with the family! n

For all the route instructions and finer details of the Grass Woods and Ghaistrill’s Strid route head to: thereluctantexplorers.com

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A CELEBRATION OF

COUNTRY LIFE A firm diary fixture for countryside enthusiasts, the Lancashire Game and Country Festival returns on 12th-13th September in Scorton

howcasing a rich programme of rural pursuits, including fly fishing, clay pigeon shooting, equestrian events, fast-paced carriage driving and gundog scurries, the Lancashire Game and Country Festival is a celebration of country life with something for everyone. This fabulous event gets bigger and better every year. The emphasis is very much on ‘having a go’ whether you are a newcomer to country sports or a seasoned professional. The Food Theatre, compered by the everentertaining Peter Gott of Sillfield Farm, features demonstrations by celebrity chefs including ‘This Morning’s’ Phil Vickery, game specialist Tim Maddams and wild food guru, Lancashire-based Dominique’s Kitchen. There is artisan produce to sample and buy, as well as crafts and lots of fantastic top-brand fashions. In the main arena, demonstrations include headline act Jonathan Marshall and his unique and inspirational choreographed ‘Free Spirit’ horseback and falconry performances. Jonathan is the world’s leading horseback falconer, flying birds of prey from his highly trained stallions. There will be music from Samba Espirito drumming band, as well as a shopping village and children’s fair.

EXPLORE & HAVE A GO

Clay shooting and fly fishing are both increasingly popular sports and if you have never had a go, but would like to, there will be experts at the Festival that can help you with tuition and tips. Blackpool Sporting Clays will be on hand to help beginners with all the equipment you’ll need to have a go while instructors from the Game Angling Instructors Association are on hand to teach some of the basics.

FOOD THEATRE HIGHLIGHTS

ITV This Morning’s Phil Vickery is a farmer with roots in the North and a writer and author. He will be demonstrating recipes from his book: ‘Game: A Modern Approach to Preparing, Cooking and Curing’. He will

be joined by game specialist Tim Maddams and foraging queen Dominique Ashford from food theatre sponsors Esse.

ALL THINGS EQUINE

Horse shows have their own dedicated part of the event for enthusiasts and on Saturday the Working Hunter Classes, sponsored by Shorefields Supplies, take centre stage. Sunday sees the heavy horses, ridden and in-hand classes.

DOGTASTIC!

Darren Kirk of Kirkbourne Spaniels, twice winning ‘Gundog Trainer of the Year’, runs the scurries. They are designed for shooting dogs, but anyone can bring their dog along and have a go. Enjoy the entertaining ‘Little Nippers’ terrier displays and go into the arena to meet the harriers from Vale of Lune.

LONSDALE AUCTIONEERS Shooting enthusiasts will be able to visit sponsor Lonsdale Auctioneers stand. The specialist auction house is one of the very few in the UK to deal in both antique and modern guns. n Tickets include free parking: £18 for adults and £12 for 10-16-year-olds with under-10s free. Ringside VIP marquee featuring a fizz reception and gourmet lunch: £60pp. Weekend camping: £140 which includes entry for two.

Scorton Showground Woodacre Lodge Farm Hazelhead Lane Scorton, Preston PR3 1BN lancashiregamefestival.co.uk

HUG A TREE (They really need it right now) The native woodlands of the Dales urgently need your help. After such a long, hot summer, our trees are really struggling. YDMT is working hard to create more sustainable woodlands to mitigate the impact of climate change. Scan the code to support our work and create more resilient woodlands in the Dales.

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Whalley such as Viaduct View, The Arches, The Abbey and The Abbot’s Suite: “The rooms vary in size so we really can cater for everyone,” explains Lauren. “The Arches is the first room to welcome you in and offers a cosy and characterful stay with a relaxed inviting space for guests and their dog – even four-legged friends deserve a taste of boutique indulgence!” Abbot’s Court is in the very experienced hands of General Manager Rebecca Clarke,

A TOUCH OF LUXURY These are exciting times for Abbot’s Court in Whalley, which has re-opened as a beautiful boutique bed and breakfast as part of The Reilly Collection, writes Gail Bailey

boutique stay designed for those who appreciate thoughtful details, warm hospitality and a little luxury along the way, Abbot’s Court has opened with nine beautifully appointed bedrooms: “My mother Candice and I have designed each of the bedrooms mixing comfort with the character of the area – ensuring every detail tells a story,” explains Managing Director Lauren Reilly.

Nestled in the heart of Whalley, the hotel had been a restaurant for many years prior to its recent refurbishment and the building is a much-loved landmark for Whalley villagers and visitors: “We wanted the hotel to reflect the area and be an intimate space designed for comfort, elegance and relaxation,” Lauren says. The name of each stunning room follows the theme of the history and landscape of

who worked at the Inn at Whitewell for 21 years before spending 16 years at Browsholme Hall, therefore knowing both the industry and the local area very well: “It’s lovely to be now working at Abbot’s Court and for The Reilly Collection,” Rebecca says. “It’s wonderful to be part of this venture and we’re incredibly excited to begin welcoming visitors and sharing everything Abbot’s Court has to offer.”

WE WANTED ABBOT’S COURT TO REFLECT THE AREA AND BE AN INTIMATE SPACE DESIGNED FOR COMFORT, ELEGANCE AND RELAXATION Alongside its beautiful rooms, Abbot’s Court offers a delicious continental breakfast, while the fully licensed Reilly’s Bar provides the perfect setting to unwind with a drink after a day exploring the picturesque Ribble Valley and its fantastic array of gastro pubs, independent restaurants and culinary gems.

lifestyle There are further future plans for The Reilly Collection with Thorneyholme Hall in Dunsop Bridge, soon to become an exclusive holiday property: “Thorneyholme was our family home and holds many special memories for us,” says Lauren. “It’s exciting to be opening it as a holiday house and knowing guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful space and all it has to offer.” Thorneyholme Hall stands on the banks of the river Hodder close to the centre of the village of Dunsop Bridge. Set in private, exquisite gardens the hall has eight bedrooms, a games room and a cinema room with a pitch and putt, hot tub, wood fired pizza oven and teppanyaki grill outside for guests to enjoy. “There is a long and wonderful history to Thorneyholme Hall,” adds Rebecca. “It was home to John Towneley, the 13th Lord of Bowland, in the period up until his death in 1878. Prior to that it had been the home of Richard Eastwood, an acclaimed breeder of racehorses. There is a painting of the 1861 Derby winner ‘Kettledrum’ on the ceiling above the altar in St Hubert’s Church in the village. Owned by the Towneley family and stabled opposite the hall, it is said that the church was paid for with the horse’s winnings! Lauren adds: “My family opened and ran Thorneyholme Hall Health Spa in the 1990s before converting the hall back into our family home. We have revived the original logo we had for the spa – a white swan – as our company logo for The Reilly Collection. The swan signifies grace, elegance and transformation – it’s perfect to represent our family business and something my dad was really keen to do.” And with more exciting news to come about another boutique bed and breakfast hotel, there is certainly plenty to look forward to. Watch this space! n

Abbot’s Court Whalley 41 Station Road, Whalley BB7 9RH 01200 411794 bookings@abbotscourtwhalley.co.uk abbotscourtwhalley.co.uk

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RAINWATER OR WASTEWATER? Learn more about the hidden pipes protecting – and polluting – our rivers, writes Victoria Benn

Across the country, plumbing mistakes and misconnections mean that wastewater from washing machines, dishwashers, sinks and even toilets sometimes end up in the wrong drainage system. Instead of travelling to a wastewater treatment works, detergents and household chemicals flow directly into rivers, damaging water quality and wildlife.

As part of their conservation and restoration work, Rivers Trusts like Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust deliver surface water outfall surveys – called ‘outfall safaris’ – often with the help of volunteers, to correctly map them and identify concerns. Surveys are carried out following at least 24 hours of dry weather since outfalls should stop flowing once wet weather has passed. If water is still emerging, it’s often a sign something isn’t right.

NEVER POUR FATS, OILS, PAINT, WHITE SPIRIT OR OTHER CHEMICALS DOWN ROADSIDE DRAINS – AS THESE OFTEN LEAD DIRECTLY TO RIVERS WITHOUT ANY TREATMENT

Surface water outfalls are designed to do one simple but vital job – carry clean rainwater from roofs, roads and pavements into rivers and streams, helping to prevent flooding after heavy downpours. Unlike the foul sewer network, they should never carry wastewater from our homes.

During a survey, each outfall is checked for visual clues such as discoloured water, excessive algae or ‘sewage fungus’ before samples are tested for phosphate and ammonia. High phosphate levels can indicate detergents from household appliances, whilst ammonia is often a sign of sewage contamination. Any concerning results are reported to the local water company for further investigation and rectification.

ave you ever walked alongside a stream or river and noticed a pipe emerging from the riverbank? Sometimes they may be large and noticeable, sometimes not. Perhaps you’ve never given them much thought, but either way these ‘outfalls’ tell a story about the health of your local waterway.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

While specialist outfall surveys are essential, there’s still plenty we can do at home to help. Never pour fats, oils, paint, white spirit or other chemicals down roadside drains – as these often lead directly to rivers without any treatment. The same applies to washing your car on the driveway, where soapy water washes straight into surface drains. Commercial car washes recycle and treat their wastewater, making them a much kinder choice for the environment. If you’re planning building work or replacing plumbing, make sure new appliances are connected to the correct drainage system. And, if you notice a surface water outfall flowing during dry weather, see cloudy water, unpleasant odours or signs of pollution in your local stream, report it to the Environment Agency on their 24-hour incident hotline – 0800 80 70 60 – as it could signify a misconnection. Our rivers may look resilient, but they rely on thousands of small actions from all of us. By understanding what should – and shouldn’t – be going down our drains, we can all help keep our waterways cleaner, healthier and thriving for generations to come. n

For further information visit: ydrt.org.uk

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AN EXTRA TOUCH OF MAGIC Whether it’s gourmet dining, country sports or luxurious relaxation, Grantley Hall is the perfect place for a staycation

ell established as one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Grantley Hall offers plenty of reasons to stay beyond dinner. Set within 38 acres of the North Yorkshire countryside, the five-star retreat lends itself perfectly to an extended staycation, with enough to discover both within the grounds and beyond its gates to make each day feel different. Dining naturally plays a starring role at Grantley Hall. With five restaurants and three bars to explore, guests can move from Michelin-starred dining at Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall to the vibrant Pan-Asian flavours of Bar & Restaurant EightyEight, with cocktails in Norton Bar and Afternoon Tea in between. Even Grantley Hall’s sister property and country pub is close at hand. The Grantley Arms is just a stone’s throw away and offers all the charm of a quintessential Yorkshire pub with elevated, seasonal menus for guests and locals alike.

As the seasons transition from summer to autumn, the surrounding countryside becomes an experience in itself, with a wealth of off-site activities and experiences available to book as part of your stay at Grantley Hall. For those looking to embrace country life, the nearby Swinton Estate is home to the Northern Fishing School, where Marina Gibson and her expert guides offer tailored fly-fishing experiences across rivers, lakes and reservoirs. From first casts to days spent in pursuit of salmon, trout and grayling, experiences can be adapted to suit every level.

MORNINGS CAN BE SPENT EXPLORING THE NORTH YORKSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE, AFTERNOONS IN THE THREE GRACES SPA AND EVENINGS DISCOVERING A NEW RESTAURANT OR BAR Clay pigeon shooting offers another way to make the most of the Yorkshire lifestyle. Suitable for both beginners and more seasoned shots, guided sessions combine expert tuition with spectacular countryside surroundings, with all equipment provided. Golfers are particularly well catered for with Ripon City Golf Club, Rudding Park Golf Club and the

renowned Alwoodley Golf Club all within easy reach. A morning on the fairways can be followed by an altogether slower afternoon back at Grantley Hall. The beauty of a longer stay, however, is having nowhere you need to be. At Grantley Hall, the Three Graces Spa offers a change of pace, with its indoor swimming pool and extensive thermal facilities providing a welcome retreat after a day in the great outdoors. Those keen to maintain their fitness routine can also make use of the ELITE Gym, with state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated strength and conditioning spaces. Mornings can be spent exploring the North Yorkshire countryside, afternoons in the Three Graces Spa and evenings discovering a new restaurant or bar. With world-class dining, countryside pursuits and luxurious suites all within reach, guests can make Grantley Hall their home away from home, with an extra touch of magic. n

To learn more about Grantley Hall and book your stay, visit the website. Grantley Hall Ripon HG4 3ET 01765 620070 grantleyhall.co.uk

WALKING, WELLBEING & WILD SWIMMING The Sedbergh Walking & Wellbeing Festival will be launched in September alongside a new long-distance trail

new festival celebrating walking and wellbeing will take place from 14th to 20th September in and around Sedbergh, the Howgill Fells, Wild Baugh Fell and the Upper Lune Valley. The Sedbergh Walking & Wellbeing Festival offers a week of guided fell walks alongside wellbeing sessions, evening talks and therapeutic treatments, set in one of England’s most striking landscapes. The programme is designed for solo visitors and groups and for people attending for a single day or the full week. The festival is an invitation to slow down and reconnect with nature, blending walking with rest, relaxation and mindfulness. It will also mark the launch of the new Westmorland & Furness Way, a 120-mile walking trail taking in some of

the region’s most varied landscapes, from Alston in the north to Furness Abbey in the south, passing through the North Pennines National Landscape, the Yorkshire Dales

THE FESTIVAL IS AN INVITATION TO SLOW DOWN AND RECONNECT WITH NATURE, BLENDING WALKING WITH REST, RELAXATION AND MINDFULNESS National Park, the Lake District National Park and alongside Morecambe Bay. From high fell and open moorland to rolling countryside, rivers and coast, the terrain offers walking opportunities suited to a range of ages and abilities – and the route is presented in six sections so walkers can plan anything from a day walk to a weekend

adventure. The trail was inspired by local walker and guidebook writer David Pitt and developed by the team at Westmorland & Furness Council. The Westmorland & Furness Way officially launches on 15th September as part of the festival. For more information, visit westmorlandfurnessway.co.uk

Alongside the walking, festival-goers will find plenty of wellbeing therapies on offer from some of the UK’s leading practitioners, including Dalesway Therapies, spanning massage, myofascial release, CranioSacral Therapy, earthing sessions and foot/Achilles care. There will also be on-demand sunrise and sunset walks for those who fancy catching the start of the day or its close, sunrise over the Dales and the Pennines, or sunset over the Lake District and Morecambe Bay. More talks, wellbeing sessions and walks will be added to the programme in the coming weeks and details will be available on the festival website.

Photography: Rob Whitrow

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Each day of the festival features a different guided walk: • Monday 14th September – Sedbergh & Frostrow Fell (4.5 miles / 2.5 hours) • Tuesday 15th September – Howgill’s Skyline, taking in six summits (8 miles / 5 hours) • Wednesday 16th September – Cautley Spout & the Calf, visiting England’s highest waterfall (6 miles / 4 hours) • Thursday 17th September – Firbank Fell & River Lune, including an optional wild swim (4.5 miles / 3 hours)

• Sunday 20th September – A circuit of Wild Boar Fell (8 miles / 5 hours)

• Tuesday 15th September – Alfred Wainwright Books & Memorabilia, with collector Chris Butterfield

Practical outdoor sessions will also explore the benefits of direct skin contact with the earth for energy, sleep and stress reduction. Participants will also receive guidance on foot and Achilles care and balance.

• Wednesday 16th September – Managing Emergencies on the Fells, covering planning, kit and decision-making

PRACTICAL OUTDOOR SESSIONS WILL ALSO EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF DIRECT SKIN CONTACT WITH THE EARTH FOR ENERGY, SLEEP AND STRESS REDUCTION

• Friday 18th September – Howgills Traverse, the festival’s longest walk (10.5 miles / 6 hours)

A programme of talks will run each evening from 6pm to 7pm at The Black Bull Inn, Sedbergh:

• Saturday 19th September – A Pennine Journey, following in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright (5 miles / 3 hours)

• Monday 14th and Friday 18th September – Navigation for Fell Walkers, an introduction to map and compass skills for novice walkers

• Thursday 17th September – The Red Squirrels of Sedbergh, on the work of the Sedbergh Red Squirrel Society, with proceeds supporting the cause Festival-goers can base themselves at The Black Bull Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn at the foot of the Howgill Fells. James Ratcliffe, co-owner of the inn, explained: ‘’We wanted to create something that reflects what makes this part of the world special, with big open fells on the doorstep and a chance to properly switch off at the end of the day.” Mark Kenyon of Sedbergh Summits said: ‘’The Howgills and the Lune Valley have some of the best walking in the north of England – and this festival is a fantastic opportunity to share routes and terrain that even regular visitors to the Dales might not have explored before.’’

Photography: Rob Whitrow

Yvonne Cervetti of Dalesway Therapies and qualified Earthing Guide, added: “Sedbergh offers a perfect area to reconnect to nature, even taking your shoes off to fully charge and mobilise your feet and fascia before a day out in the hills. There is a vast assortment of both hands-on and talking therapies, classes, workshops, creative arts, singing and books to complement your time on the fells.’’ n Full details on booking walks and talks will be available via the festival’s booking channels: trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/115235 For further information, visit: sedbergh.org.uk/ festivals/sedbergh-walking-wellbeing-festival

lifestyle kits available to buy but these do not give you any of the advice that a legal practitioner would – and more often than not cause greater issues when someone dies without a will. For example, if you do a DIY will leaving everything to your spouse, what happens if you die together in a car accident – where does your estate go? Or rather, where would you want your estate to go? Children? Grandchildren? Close friends?

IT GIVES YOU PEACE OF MIND THAT THE WILL IS CORRECT AND THAT UPON YOUR DEATH YOUR LOVED ONES ARE NOT LEFT IN THE DARK

WILLS: THE WAR AGAINST INTESTACY It’s a common misconception that only wealthy people need wills. Will McGarry, Associate Solicitor with McGarry & Co, explains why this couldn’t be further from the truth

will, in simple terms, is a document that sets out where your individual estate goes upon your death. Hence the need for everyone to have their affairs in order with a will, because very few people actually know when they are going to die. If you don’t have a valid will at the date of your death your estate will be distributed in accordance with the Law of Intestacy, which in simple terms means it will be distributed to your closest living next of kin. This could be your spouse, if you have one, or your children if you don’t. It could mean your parents or siblings if you are unmarried and childless. The Law of Intestacy will distribute your estate following your bloodline, so if you wish to leave specific gifts, such as jewellery or watches, to someone who is not the next in line (i.e. a grandchild or a godchild) this may not happen after your death unless it is specified within a will.

There are three main points to consider when making a will: 1. Who your executors are going to be. 2. Who the beneficiaries are going to be. 3. The inheritance tax position of your estate.

IF YOU DON’T HAVE A VALID WILL AT THE DATE OF YOUR DEATH YOUR ESTATE WILL BE DISTRIBUTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAW OF INTESTACY These are things that are often overlooked without expert advice. I recently had a client who asked me to check a will for him. It gave no reference to any executors, so I asked who would administer his estate upon his death and I got no response. He later told me this was an AI generated will and we set about creating a new one that would not be questioned by the court. There are DIY will

When drafting your will considering all possibilities is of paramount importance, this is why having specialist advice is key. Going to see a legal practitioner who has the expertise of both advising and drafting but also administering estates (probate) post death is the best course of action. It gives you peace of mind that the will is correct and that upon your death your loved ones are not left in the dark as to how you wanted your estate to be distributed. While wills protect your interests after your death, there are also steps that you can take to protect your interest whilst you are still living by putting in place Lasting Powers of Attorney. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney – one deals with property and finance and one deals with health and care decisions. Lasting Powers of Attorney allow you to appoint ‘attorneys’ to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity (and before if you think appropriate) to assist in managing your financial affairs and matters relating to your health and wellbeing. Having a specialist to draft and advise on the execution of your Lasting Powers of Attorney can provide peace of mind that the document is correct. For further detailed advice contact one of our offices across the North East. n

mbmcgarry.co.uk

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IT’S ALL GO… A period of convalescence reveals Goosnargh Lodge Park’s growing community, while lakes, leisure facilities, gardens and golf bring fresh momentum into autumn, writes Tedd Walmsley. Photography: Anthony P Driver

ometimes you have to stop to notice just how quickly things are moving. Following an unexpected health scare and the fitting of a pacemaker, I found myself doing something I’m not particularly good at – sitting still. For part of my convalescence, that meant returning to our lodge at Goosnargh. Liz inevitably had to return to work, leaving me with strict instructions to take things easy and plenty of time sitting on the deck watching the world go by. What I hadn’t anticipated was just how much that period would reinforce one of the things we have come to value most about owning here. Food parcels appeared. There were friendly knocks on the door, offers of help, cups of tea and regular chats to make sure I was doing as I was told. Nothing intrusive or overbearing, simply people quietly looking out for one another. We have talked about the emerging community at Goosnargh Lodge Park in

previous articles but, when you experience that kindness personally, it takes on rather more meaning.

There was, however, only so much sitting still I could manage, particularly when everywhere I looked something seemed to be happening. If there is a phrase to describe Goosnargh Lodge Park as we head into autumn, it is quite simply – it’s all go. Perhaps the most visible transformation is taking place around the main lakes. Anyone visiting recently will have seen some fairly serious machinery at work as a major programme of restoration and landscaping gathers pace.

WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE THAT KINDNESS PERSONALLY, THE COMMUNITY TAKES ON RATHER MORE MEANING The lakes are being reshaped and restored, with fountains forming part of the finished scheme. It is substantial work but, within weeks, much of what currently resembles a construction project will have been transformed into another of the park’s defining features. Elsewhere, the new gym and sauna are moving into place, adding another dimension to the facilities available to owners. The community garden is progressing too.

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Meetings with greenhouse suppliers are taking place and the aim is to have another element of the park taking shape as autumn arrives. It is easy to imagine residents growing produce, exchanging ideas and inevitably enjoying another excuse for a coffee and conversation.

I ARRIVED NEEDING SOMEWHERE PEACEFUL TO RECOVER, YET AROUND ME WAS A PLACE ANYTHING BUT STANDING STILL Even my enforced spell on the deck managed to reconnect me with another old passion – golf. The park retains several holes from its former life as a golf course and the collaboration between Goosnargh and nearby Longridge Golf Club is gathering

pace. Plans are progressing to work on new tees and greens for the remaining holes, sympathetically bringing another part of the original landscape back into use. I may have been under instructions to convalesce, but I couldn’t resist getting involved in some of the conversations. Old habits die hard. All this activity is also opening up what I think will become some of the most attractive positions on the park. A limited number of plots remain overlooking the two main lakes, including just two further opportunities around the main lake itself. As the landscaping reaches completion, it becomes much easier to appreciate quite how special these locations will be. For anyone wanting to make the move more quickly, there is another option. Five or six completed lodges from existing stock are currently available, offering the opportunity to move in without waiting for a new lodge to be ordered and commissioned. They provide a variety of styles and specifications, with prices ranging from around £150,000 through to approximately £325,000. It is a subtle but important distinction.

Goosnargh is increasingly becoming somewhere you can visit today, find the lodge that feels right and potentially start enjoying the lifestyle almost immediately. The photographs accompanying this article show the scale of what is happening, but inevitably they capture Goosnargh at a moment in time. Within weeks, machinery

will have disappeared, banks will have been landscaped and the lakes and fountains will begin to reveal the finished picture. Perhaps that is what struck me most while sitting on our deck. I arrived back at Goosnargh needing somewhere peaceful to recover and found exactly that. Yet around me was a place anything but standing still. There was machinery working in the distance, plans being discussed, gardens developing, golf holes being rediscovered and new friendships forming. And occasionally, thankfully, someone arriving with a cup of tea. As autumn approaches, Goosnargh Lodge Park feels as though it is moving into another phase of its story and for once, I had the perfect excuse to sit quietly and watch it happen. n

Goosnargh Lodge Park Inglewhite Road Preston PR3 2ED 01772 211211 goosnarghlodgepark.co.uk

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CHILDREN’S CHARITY MARKS 15 YEARS A Skipton-based charity is supporting some of Yorkshire’s most vulnerable children and their families by providing free, week-long respite breaks

he Principle Trust Children’s Charity is inviting Yorkshire businesses and the wider community to come together and celebrate 15 years of helping families facing adversity. The charity is staging A Night at the Seaside on Saturday 26th September at the Queens Hotel, Leeds, to mark the life-changing impact it has had on more than 6,000 children across Yorkshire. Guests will be transported to the nostalgia of a traditional British seaside holiday, with an evening filled with music, enchanting circus performances, traditional seaside games and continuous entertainment designed to delight all the senses.

SINCE ITS LAUNCH IN 2011 BY FOUNDER MIKE DAVIES, THE CHARITY HAS PROVIDED ESSENTIAL RESPITE BREAKS FOR CHILDREN FACING HARDSHIP Attendees will indulge in a carefully curated three-course menu inspired by Britain’s coastal towns, complemented by sweet seaside treats and bespoke cocktails to honour the charity’s three holiday locations. Guests are encouraged to embrace the occasion with a summer evening dress code and enjoy the spirit of the seaside. Since its launch in 2011 by founder Mike Davies, the charity has provided essential respite breaks for children facing hardship. These breaks offer children and their families the opportunity to rest, reconnect and create precious memories together. The anniversary event will raise vital funds and with the charity’s 100 per cent donations policy, every penny of profit will go directly

towards supporting children and families across Yorkshire, helping those facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Tickets are available at £99 per person or £950 for a table of 10. Visit theprincipletrust.co.uk/event/a-night-at-the-seaside to book. Corporate Development Manager, Linda Yates, said: “As we celebrate 15 years of creating life-changing memories for children and families, we would love Yorkshire businesses to be part of this landmark evening. A Night at the Seaside offers a fantastic opportunity for organisations to bring colleagues together for such a brilliant cause. Every table booked helps us continue our mission of providing memorable respite breaks across the region.” What began as one man’s vision to help children facing adversity has grown into a charity that has now raised more than £2.26 million to provide children and their families with free, life-changing respite breaks. Its founder Mike Davies was inspired by his own childhood. Mike lost his mother to cancer when he was just five years old – and he understood first-hand how challenging childhood can be when life feels overwhelming. Determined to make a difference, Mike founded The Principle Trust to provide free respite breaks for children facing adversity, not only those experiencing bereavement, but also families living with poverty, trauma, abuse, serious illness, disability and other significant life challenges. Fifteen years later, that vision continues to change lives across Yorkshire. Over the years, the charity has grown into a trusted regional organisation supporting more than 300 families every year. It now has eight respite homes across Blackpool, Filey and the Lake District. n

theprincipletrust.co.uk

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E S TAT E LIFE Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy and Amber Hindley, who are converting it into a thriving five-star resort

s another wonderful summer draws to a close, we have been reflecting on what has been one of our most memorable seasons yet. From busy weekends filled with weddings and family holidays to exciting new additions across the estate, it has been a summer full of unforgettable moments. This year saw the addition of five brand-new glamping tents, making our glamping field bigger than ever. It has been a real pleasure watching families make the most of the long summer days, with children playing in the fields,

guests relaxing around the estate and making memories together before cooling off in our heated outdoor pool. Seeing so many families enjoying everything the estate has to offer has been incredibly rewarding. Our estate has also welcomed several new members. Alongside Sol the horse and Teddy the miniature Shetland pony, we’ve been delighted to introduce Nigerian dwarf goats and their three adorable kids, two Valais Blacknose sheep and another new lamb. Our resident deer and magnificent peacocks continue to delight visitors, making every walk around the estate feel that little bit more special. As autumn arrives, we also say farewell to another exceptional wedding season. We were

honoured to host so many beautiful celebrations, each bringing its own unique style and personality. From the unforgettable Bridgertoninspired wedding of Nina and Jacob, owners of the TikTok sensation Spud Bros, to woodland ceremonies, riverside photographs, jazz bands, crazy golf, fun barbecues and incredible dining experiences, every wedding has been a privilege to be part of. We would like to thank all of our couples for choosing to celebrate with us and we are already looking forward to welcoming our 2027 couples. For anyone considering Gisburne Park Estate for their special day, we will also be opening our doors for our next Wedding Showcase on

OUR WEDDING SHOWCASE ON THE 26TH AND 27TH SEPTEMBER WILL BE A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY FOR COUPLES TO EXPLORE THE ESTATE

Photography: @byhannahphotography

the weekend of 26th and 27th September. This will be a wonderful opportunity for newly engaged couples to explore the estate, view our beautiful wedding spaces, meet members of our team and discover everything we have to offer for your perfect day. Hindelinis has enjoyed another fantastic season, becoming the main hub of the park throughout the summer months. Friday

evenings came alive with live music, while Saturdays welcomed DJs from our local radio station, Ribble FM, creating the perfect atmosphere for guests. We can’t wait to bring even more exciting events in the months ahead. October half-term is already proving incredibly popular, with only limited availability remaining for glamping stays and family breaks. Autumn provides the perfect backdrop for cosy escapes, woodland walks and seasonal dining. As we head towards the last few months of another incredible year at Ribblesdale Park, we can’t wait to share the magic of the coming months with you. n

Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300 events@gisburneparkestate.co.uk gisburneparkestate.co.uk @hindelinis @ribblesdalepark @gisburneparkestate

FELL-WALKING ALONG THE PENNINE WAY This hike is Day Five of the North West Way, a long distance walk from Preston to Carlisle by Steve Garrill HORTON-IN-RIBBLESDALE TO HAWES DISTANCE: 14 miles ASCENT: 1,510’ DESCENT: 1,490’ TERRAIN: Field paths and tracks TIME: 6 hours START: Horton-in-Ribblesdale MAPS: OL2 Yorkshire Dales Southern & Western

oday’s walk is classic fell-walking with open moorland, little shelter and few signs of habitation. The route is easy to find, as much of it is along green lanes, usually old packhorse routes. To aid navigation you are following the Pennine Way. There are some excellent views, particularly of the Three Peaks of Yorkshire – especially emotive if you have ever completed the challenge. The market town of Hawes is an excellent destination with a wide range of

accommodation, as well as many shops, cafes and restaurants. The Dales Countryside Museum is open 10am-5pm. 1. From the Crown Inn car park [SD808 727] turn left onto Harbor Scar Lane, a stony walled track. Pass through a gate and continue to the highpoint of the climb. As the track swings right, pass through a smaller gate on the left-hand side. Bear right and climb to superb views of the Dales. You briefly join the route of the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge but continue on the Pennine Way. At the next gate turn left, signposted Pennine Way. This is the preturnpike pack horse route from Settle to Hawes. There is evidence that at least parts of the road could be Roman or earlier. 2. The route winds between Cave Hill and Fair Bottom Hill to reach the deep limestone ravine of Ling Gill and pass through Ling Gill National Nature Reserve. The route passes Ling Gill Bridge [SD803 789].

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You are now five miles into the walk and this is an idyllic place to pause for a break. Ling Gill National Nature Reserve is a small sub-alpine woodland. It is situated in a narrow limestone gorge through which flows Cam Beck and contains Birch, Rowan and Ash trees along with rare plants. These survive because the steep slopes have prevented access to grazing animals. Ling Gill Bridge was built in the 16th century and a commemorative stone built into the bridge marks its repair in 1765. Cam High Road was a Roman road which ran between the Roman fort at Bainbridge and Ingleton which followed the alignment of a prehistoric track. It was repaired as part of the Richmond to Lancaster Turnpike road but abandoned around 1795. 3. T he trail now meanders uphill – look left to see views of the Ribblehead Viaduct. Continue to Cam End and turn right [SD802 804] to join the Dales Way along Cam High Road. Ribblehead Viaduct, on the Settle to Carlisle railway, was opened in 1874. It has 24 arches, is 104’ high and took 6,000 navvies to build it – hundreds of whom died in the process. If you ever get the chance you should visit Ribblehead Station and

look at the fascinating exhibition of the railway’s history. settle-carlisle.co.uk/shop/

As you descend you look ahead into the fertile dale of Wensleydale (home to the cheese beloved by Wallace and Gromit!)

If you look back now you should be able to see all three of the famous Three Peaks of Yorkshire – the gritstone capped peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. I’ve done the challenge a few times and from here you wonder how on earth you managed it!

6. Pass Gaudy House on the left. Continue into Gaudy Lane, a tarmac track and follow it to the end [SD865 889]. Turn left then right and then left again down another lane. Follow the lane down past Rookhurst Country House and bear left onto a flagged path which runs diagonally across two small fields. Cross straight over a road and pass between houses. Cross straight over again to pass between more houses. Turn left onto a road and then right along a flagged path above Gayle Beck to pass to the right of the beautiful St Margaret's church and emerge opposite the White Hart in the centre of Hawes. The White Hart Inn is an old coaching Inn and stage post dating from the late 16th century. n

4. Cross a wooden stile alongside a large metal gate and then bear left through another large metal gate. The Dales Way forks off to the right, but the Pennine Way continues along the high top. Continue to Kidhow Gate (1,877’). Fork left off the road onto the old packhorse road, now called West Cam Road. Look left and marvel at the straightness of the dry stone walls which rise up on the far side of the valley of Snaizeholme. 5. Follow West Cam Road for approximately 45 minutes before you bear right onto a path signposted Pennine Way [SD842 868]. (In particularly wet weather, after a prolonged period of rain or failing light you should continue straight ahead to the end. Turn right onto the main road to walk into Hawes). The path climbs up in roughly the same direction before dropping down and bearing right.

North West Way (Preston-Carlisle) by Steve Garrill is available from Plackitt & Booth Booksellers in Lytham. Scan the QR code to order.

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A STEP OUT OF THE ORDINARY Pay a visit and experience why fitright footwear is one step ahead of other high street retail shoe shops

itright footwear is a unique, specialist retail shoe shop. We are unlike other shoe shops as we are by appointment only and offer a complimentary one-toone shoe measuring and fitting service rarely found in average high street shoe shops for adults. As each visit is as individual as you are, we also have a locked door policy to make sure your experience is relaxed, private and undisturbed. Each customer has a 45-minute personal appointment as it takes time to find the right shoe. Each member of our team is a highly trained, professional shoe fitter with in-depth knowledge and understanding of many foot problems and the shoes that can help to relieve the discomfort that comes with them.

Our extensive product knowledge is key to the service we provide in-store. Like clothing there is no standardisation when it comes to footwear – it’s important to remember the number on the box is only a guide. Shoe sizes vary extensively from brand to brand and even within

Waldlaufer, YDA and DB Wider Fit, giving our customers access to footwear designed with comfort and different fitting requirements in mind. Our shoes also feature removable insoles, which means we can often accommodate customers who wear orthotics.

one person may not work for another. That’s why our personal approach is at the heart of everything we do.

Fitright Footwear – because finding the right shoe should be a comfortable experience from the very first step. n

the same brand it’s very common to find that the same size will fit differently from shoe to shoe, depending on its style. We can accommodate feet of all shapes and sizes as our extensive stock of footwear offers a range of depths, widths and sizes, including half sizes, for men and women. We stock quality brands such as Finn Comfort, Joya, Fidelio,

Once prescribed, orthotics can be difficult to fit comfortably into ordinary footwear, but the right shoe can make all the difference. We can help you find styles with the space, depth and adjustability needed to work alongside your orthotics.

Appointments only: Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

Fitright Footwear

From everyday footwear to shoes for more challenging fitting requirements, our aim is simple – to help you find footwear that feels as good as it looks. We understand that everyone’s feet are different and what works for

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

lifestyle More quiet lanes take you back to Kirkby Stephen. For something more challenging there’s a 45km circular road ride which explores the Westmorland Dales – an area which became part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park in 2016.

KIRKBY STEPHEN AND SMARDALE GILL

Kirkby Stephen Seven miles Kirkby Stephen and Crosby Garrett Toilets: Kirkby Stephen Nearest train station: Kirkby Stephen (one mile out of town) Photography: Andy Kay

Start/Finish: Distance: Refreshments:

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. From the middle of Kirkby Stephen take the road signed Auction Mart, Soulby and Crosby Garrett at the mini roundabout.

LET’S TAKE A RIDE… 2. As you leave town you come to a large junction by a school. Turn left here signed Waitby.

Photography: Paul Harris

irkby Stephen is one of the best cycling bases in northern England, sitting between the Yorkshire Dales, North Pennines and the Eden Valley. It offers a mix of quiet country lanes, challenging hill climbs, scenic off-road riding and access to several famous long-distance cycling routes. The town itself has a wide range of shops, cafes and

Photography: Andy Kay

This route is a nice 12km road ride starting from the centre of Kirkby Stephen and following narrow, quiet lanes through to Smardale

accommodation and sits on the Coast to Coast Path National Trail. For many people the highlight of this ride will be locking the bikes up at the entrance to Smardale Gill and taking a walk through the nature reserve on the old railway line as far as the impressive 14 arch viaduct.

3. Follow this lovely country road to reach another junction. Turn right signed Moorlands, Stripes and Smardale Mill. Go past Stripes Farm, over a cross roads continuing straight ahead signed Crosby Garrett. After a short distance turn right signed Crosby Garrett. 4. You then come to a ford (where a stream runs across the road) with a footbridge alternative. When you reach a T-junction with no sign, turn left which will take you to Crosby Garrett. 5. Drop down to the main street through the village and turn left.Turn left again by the bus shelter signed Smardale and Waitby. Continue along this narrow lane and cross another ford or use the footbridge. You come into the little village of Smardale and the road bends to the right. Here you will find the start of the walk along Smardale Gill to the viaduct. 6. Continue out of Smardale village and follow this road through to Waitby. As you arrive at the village bear right signed Kirkby Stephen. This road returns you to Kirkby Stephen by the school. Turn right to return to the high street. n

Details of this route and many others of varying lengths and difficulty, can be found at cyclethedales.org.uk

WOOLLY WONDERFUL Winding to Skipton for the last weekend of September, Yarndale is the Dales wool festival that’s captured everyone’s imagination. Kate Bowyer grabs a minute with busy organisers Emma Sandoe and Kate Beard to talk about knitting friendship, craft and heritage together

ne of the country’s best-loved celebrations of yarn, wool and creativity, Skipton’s annual Yarndale festival draws visitors from across Britain and beyond every autumn. Yet, as I discover from friends and co-founders Emma and Kate, it all began with a simple question back in 2012. “Why doesn’t Skipton have its own wool festival?” they say together. Surrounded by sheep-filled hillsides and

SURROUNDED BY SHEEP-FILLED HILLSIDES AND PROUDLY KNOWN AS THE GATEWAY TO THE DALES, SKIPTON’S VERY NAME COMES FROM THE OLD NORSE FOR SHEEP (SCĒAP) AND TŪN (TOWN OR SETTLEMENT)

proudly known as the Gateway to the Dales, Skipton’s very name comes from the Old Norse for sheep (sceap) and tun (town or settlement). If anywhere deserved a festival celebrating wool, surely it was the original ‘sheep-town’. “We lived close to each other, just a few miles out of town, but it took Yarndale to connect us,” recollects Emma. “Kate was involved with Grassington Festival, while I was part of a local knitting group in Skipton. Talking about how desperate falling fleece prices were for local farmers, it seemed shocking there wasn’t a local festival celebrating this wonderful natural resource that built the town.” Gathering around 160 exhibitors for the first Yarndale in 2013: “We held our breath to see if any visitors would turn up!” Kate laughs.

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They certainly did – and momentum quickly grew. This year, around 200 carefully chosen and wonderfully varied exhibitors and thousands of visitors, will gather from around the UK and far beyond to spend a weekend immersed in yarn, textiles, craft and creativity. Between them, Kate and Emma continue to steer the festival with the same enthusiasm they shared at the very beginning, thanks to a dedicated army of volunteers – and some familiar faces. “My children have grown up with Yarndale,” Emma smiles. “They’ve all left home now, but every September they love coming back to help. My husband, my dad, Kate’s partner – basically, if you know us, you can’t escape!”

CHILDREN ARE WARMLY WELCOMED, WITH FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES ENCOURAGING LITTLE HANDS TO DISCOVER THE PLEASURE OF CREATING SOMETHING THEMSELVES, HELPING TO PRESERVE TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AND PASTIMES This is why Yarndale still retains its communal warmth, much appreciated by visitors, including those dipping their toe in the woolcraft community for the first time. While knitting and crochet may once have been seen as traditionally female hobbies, Kate has watched the audience become increasingly diverse. “We have more men, every year,” she says. “Some with their partners, but many who knit or crochet themselves. From absolute beginners to visitors who’ve been crafting all their lives, it’s lovely to be surrounded by people who share the same interests, or beautiful crafts anyone can appreciate.” “At this kind of event, you might wear something you’ve made yourself,” adds Emma. “And you’ll always be asked: ‘That’s beautiful – did you make it?’ Then suddenly you’re chatting about a yarn, pattern, how long it took – sharing tips and sparking ideas. I always say the wool community is a very warm one – literally!” Putting the final touches to Yarndale 2026, at Skipton Auction Mart across 26th and 27th September, Emma and Kate ensure there’s plenty for everyone. Visitors can browse beautiful yarns, fibres, fabrics and handmade treasures from hundreds of exhibitors, but there’s equal emphasis on learning, sharing skills and inspiring

the next generation of makers. In an everincreasing digital world, there’s a joy in face to face learning and Yarndale embraces that spirit with a wide variety of free talks included in the admission, alongside bookable practical workshops. Children are warmly welcomed, with family-friendly activities encouraging little hands to discover the pleasure of creating something themselves, helping to preserve traditional crafts and pastimes. For first-time visitors, a little planning helps make the most of the weekend. Booking in

advance, timed entry tickets help spread arrivals throughout the day, avoiding queues, making browsing more comfortable and giving visitors plenty of opportunity to chat with exhibitors without battling crowds. All visitors are invited to contribute to the Worldwide Creative Project 2026 prior to the event. Details are on the Yarndale website. With priority parking at the auction mart being given to accessible spaces, the local Rotary Club are running a park-andride from the central town car park, or take advantage of Skipton’s rail connections, with a shuttle bus direct from the railway station. There’s an onsite café and coffee vans for refreshment, plenty of seating throughout and outdoor picnic areas. Kate’s insider advice is wonderfully practical: “Wear comfortable shoes,” she laughs. “Remember it’s a working auction mart with concrete floors designed for cows! There’s so much to see and so much ground to cover, you’ll be walking around all day! n

Yarndale Festival Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September Skipton Auction Mart Gargrave Road, Skipton BD23 1UD yarndale.co.uk Yarndale

COHABITATION REFORM In the UK there are 3.5 million cohabiting couples. Isabel Ward family solicitor at long-established law firm Walker Foster explains how proposed changes in legislation could affect them

n 2026, the government introduced its consultation ‘A Fairer End to Relationships’, which could lead to huge changes in the laws relating to cohabiting couples – people who live together but who are not married or in a civil partnership

THE CURRENT LAW

There is a common misconception that cohabiting couples benefit from rights arising out of a ‘common law marriage’, however, this is not a concept that exists in English law. Cohabiting couples have limited

legal rights meaning that if a couple separates or if one partner dies the other often has no automatic rights to property, money or inheritance. The current position can cause serious problems, especially for partners who depend on each other financially.

THERE IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION THAT COHABITING COUPLES BENEFIT FROM RIGHTS ARISING OUT OF A ‘COMMON LAW MARRIAGE’ COHABITATION AGREEMENTS At present, cohabiting couples can take steps to protect themselves using a cohabitation agreement. A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that sets out how a couple will manage their finances, property and other important matters while living together and beyond.

lifestyle The agreement can include details about how property is owned, how bills and expenses are to be paid and shared and what should happen if the relationship comes to an end. For example, a couple may agree how certain assets should be divided or whether one partner will receive financial support. This agreement is similar to a pre-nuptial agreement, and acts to provide much needed clarity in the event of relationship breakdown. These agreements are especially useful for couples who want to remain unmarried but still wish to have clear legal arrangements in place. There are misconceptions that these types of agreements, including cohabitation agreements and pre and post nuptial agreements, are not legally binding in the UK. The reality of the law at present is that courts are likely to uphold these agreements so long as they are fair, entered into with legal advice and clearly written. Therefore, for a cohabitation agreement to be effective, it should be properly drafted and entered into freely by both parties having had legal advice.

THE REFORMS AIM TO BETTER PROTECT VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED DOMESTIC ABUSE OVERVIEW OF PROPOSED CHANGES

Whilst cohabitation agreements go some way to protect cohabiting couples, they also present their own issues – and the proposed changes look to bridge this gap. Very few cohabiting couples make cohabitation agreements. This is often because people are often unaware of the protection cohabitation agreements can provide, they assume they already have legal rights through the misconception of the ‘common law marriage’ or they avoid the conversation because it feels awkward and unromantic. The proposed reform aims to fix these issues by giving cohabiting couples more automatic legal protections. The reforms focus on three main areas, financial rights on separation, inheritance rights and increased protection for vulnerable partners.

FINANCIAL RIGHTS ON SEPARATION

Eligible cohabiting couples may be able to apply for financial remedies on the breakdown of their relationship. This could include a

share of property, ongoing financial support or compensation for contributions made during the relationship. Importantly, the Court would be able to consider non-financial contributions such as raising children or managing the home rather than relying solely on the legal ownership of assets. To qualify couples would likely need to meet certain conditions such as living together for a minimum period or having a child together. The court would also look at whether a relationship was ‘serious’ and ‘long-term’ in nature before making any decisions and it would likely be a hugely discretionary area of law. This approach is intended to ensure fairness without being too broad-brush.

that come with marriage. Introducing automatic rights and remedies could therefore undermine personal autonomy and impose obligations that the couples did not intend to sign up for. Concerns have also been raised about the potential increased disputes and uncertainty around determining which relationships will qualify for protection and how a ‘serious’ and ‘long-term’ relationship should be defined.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The proposed cohabitation reforms aim to make the law fairer by providing greater protection for cohabiting couples, particularly those in vulnerable positions. While they reflect modern relationship structures, it is important the reforms also respect individual choice and the desire for financial independence. The success of the reforms will depend on achieving a balance between these considerations. n

INHERITANCE RIGHTS

Another important area of the reform is inheritance. Currently, if someone dies without a will, their unmarried partner has no automatic right to inherit anything. This can cause huge emotional and financial difficulties for the families involved. The new proposals would allow surviving partners to have automatic inheritance rights in certain situations.

PROTECTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE

The reforms aim to better protect vulnerable individuals, especially those who have experienced domestic abuse. Courts may be encouraged to consider factors such as economic abuse, financial dependence and power imbalances in a relationship when making decisions. This would allow for more tailored and fair outcomes, particularly for individuals who have been disadvantaged during a relationship.

CONCERNS AND CRITICISM

Despite the potential benefits of the proposed reforms, there are several concerns and criticisms. One of the main arguments is that individuals who choose to live together without marrying often do so to avoid the legal responsibilities and financial obligations

Walker Foster Solicitors Skipton Office 3 High Street, Skipton BD23 1AA 01756 700200 Barnoldswick Office Craven House Newtown, Barnoldswick BB18 5UQ 01282 812340 Silsden Office 63 Kirkgate, Silsden, Keighley BD20 0PD 01535 656000 Settle Office 1 High Street Settle BD24 9EX 01729 811240 Ilkley Office 27 Riddings Road, Ilkley LS29 9LX 01943 609969 Northallerton Office Century House, Thornfield Business Park Northallerton DL6 2XQ 01609 711158 Harrogate Office First Floor, 7 Victoria Avenue Harrogate HG1 1EQ 01423 222950 info@walkerfoster.com walkerfoster.com

hen Jane arrived in England from Denmark in June 1995, she could hardly have imagined that, three decades later, she would be running her own successful graphic design business from her home in the heart of historic Ilkley. With her early years spent growing up on a fjord island in northern Denmark, Jane moved to Yorkshire after meeting her English partner while they were both working for a large Danish furniture manufacturer. She explains: “There were obviously some cultural differences, but there are lots of similarities too – I immediately felt that people were very friendly and welcoming, whereas us Danes might take a bit of time to warm up! “Having grown up on a farm and coming from a small island community, Ilkley and the hilly Yorkshire landscape was very different to being surrounded by water – but it’s such a beautiful place.”

NATURE AND THE OUTDOORS ARE A BIG SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR ME – ALONG WITH THE CLASSIC, CLEAN SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN ETHOS, I’VE GROWN UP WITH

M EE T T H E DESIGNER With Danish roots, a love of the Yorkshire landscape and an entrepreneurial career which led her back to university in her 40s, Ilkley-based graphic designer Jane Hansesgaard brings a wealth of business experience to every creative brief

Jane initially worked alongside her partner developing a children’s furniture business, but it wasn’t long before her entrepreneurial instincts took over. As customers began enquiring about furniture in other categories and requesting different products, she spotted an opportunity and, in 1998, launched her own furniture wholesale business. It was a move that would unexpectedly lead to an entirely new career. Having previously focussed on designing own label ranges for her customers, this brought a new, exciting challenge. Jane was suddenly responsible not only for developing and bringing products to market but also for managing a brand. A website, lifestyle photography, brochures and sales material were all now needed. “I have always enjoyed learning new skills and taking on new challenges, so I decided to learn how to do it myself,” she says. After enrolling at Leeds College of Art to study Graphic Design, Jane’s initial intention was simply to gain the skills required to support her existing company – but the degree ignited a new passion. “It was so exciting,” she recalls. “I was in my 40s and had already established a very

lifestyle

successful career, then suddenly I was in this whole new environment and back to being a student – it opened up a new world to me.” By then a mum of three, Jane was also ready for a lifestyle change. Years of running her furniture business had involved considerable travelling, so she made the decision to sell the company and pursue her newfound creative career. After graduating, she spent 18 months gaining valuable industry experience with a graphic design business in Otley before launching Hansesgaard Design in 2016.

NEVER STOP LEARNING – IF YOU WANT SOMETHING, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF AND MAKE IT HAPPEN REGARDLESS OF YOUR AGE AND WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK Today, Jane works from home in Ilkley with businesses of all sizes, offering everything from brand and web design to print, packaging, exhibition graphics and product launches and, she says, her previous career gives her an unusual advantage: “Having spent years designing and developing products and taking them to market myself, I now understand branding from the perspective of both designer and business owner. With that knowledge, I’m able to think beyond the design element to help my clients from a strategic business perspective as well. I understand that business owners are spinning many plates at the same time – their focus is quite rightly their product or their service. It’s important for me to advise on how to spend the budget wisely and deliver the right design outcome in order for their business to grow.” While collaborating with clients locally, nationally and internationally, she continues

to manage the branding for Stompa – her former children’s furniture business – bringing her career neatly full circle. The Ilkley business community has rallied, with recommendations from satisfied clients proving instrumental in growing Hansesgaard Design.

“I’ve been very fortunate,” says Jane. “I had a great start working with some really good local businesses and their recommendations have really helped grow my reputation, which I am very grateful for.” Jane’s Danish roots remain an important part of her life and she returns regularly to Denmark to spend time with the family. Back home in Yorkshire, with her children now growing up – the youngest is 17 – she loves heading outdoors with the family’s little dog, particularly to explore Ilkley Moor. It’s often there, surrounded by the landscape she has come to love, that the ideas begin to flow. “Nature and the outdoors are a big source of inspiration for me – along with the classic, clean Scandinavian design ethos, I’ve grown up with,” she says. Thirty years after swapping Denmark for Yorkshire, Jane has successfully combined her business experience, Danish roots and creative eye to build a new career. She reflects: “If I could give one piece of advice to my children, it would be, never stop learning – if you want something, believe in yourself and make it happen regardless of your age and what other people think.” n

joanmurray.co.uk

lifestyle with what you want to say, but don’t aim to memorise every sentence. Giving yourself permission to pause, smile or even laugh if you lose your place, often makes you appear more relatable, not less. What you say is far more important than it being perfect. For those who find being the focus of attention uncomfortable, it’s helpful to gently shift your attention outward. Instead of wondering how you look or whether you’re saying the right thing, notice the faces of the people present. Make eye contact with someone who makes you feel safe. Focus on connecting rather than performing. It’s also worth remembering that significant events often bring mixed emotions. Alongside

MIND MAT TERS Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes advises on how we can conquer anxiety and positively prepare for a big event

as much as you imagine. They’re there because they care about you. They want to celebrate with you, not assess your performance.

hen we think about preparing for a big life event, we often focus on the practical details – the venue, the guest list, the outfit – but one of the most important parts of preparation is often overlooked and that is preparing yourself emotionally. Whether you’re getting married, giving a speech, celebrating a milestone birthday, or marking another significant event, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. In fact, I’d be more surprised if you didn’t. When something really matters to us, our emotions naturally become more intense. Many people fear being the centre of attention and think others will be judging them, or noticing every tiny mistake. The reality is that most people don’t scrutinise you nearly

Our brains have a habit of interpreting excitement as anxiety. A racing heart, butterflies in your stomach, shaky hands – these are all signs that your body is preparing for something important. Rather than trying to eliminate those feelings, try changing the story you tell yourself. Instead of thinking, ‘I’m so anxious’ experiment with, ‘This matters to me and my body is getting ready’. Tell yourself that being nervous is perfectly normal and it will help you focus.

THE MOMENTS WE REMEMBER MOST ARE RARELY THE PERFECT ONES. THEY’RE THE AUTHENTIC ONES Ensure that the team supporting you understand your hopes for the perfect day. A professional, experienced team will take a lot of the stress out of the day. Likewise, if it’s a wedding, choose your chief bridesmaid carefully – someone who is calm and organised can be a real asset. If you’re making a speech, remember that authenticity is far more memorable than perfection. People connect with genuine emotion far more than perfectly delivered words. Practice enough that you feel familiar

excitement, there may be sadness, nostalgia or uncertainty. Weddings, for example, can highlight absent loved ones, changing family relationships or the transition into a new chapter of life. Experiencing these emotions doesn’t diminish your happiness – it simply reflects the complexity of being human.

In the days leading up to your event, prioritise the basics. Get as much rest as you can, eat regularly, stay hydrated and avoid filling every spare moment with last-minute tasks. Building in short moments to breathe, take a walk, or simply sit quietly, can help regulate your nervous system far more effectively than endlessly trying to ‘push through’. Finally, remind yourself why you’re there. A wedding is not about delivering a flawless performance, it’s about making a commitment to someone you love. A graduation isn’t about giving the perfect speech, it’s about celebrating years of hard work. When you reconnect with the meaning behind the occasion, the pressure to get every detail right often begins to soften. The moments we remember most are rarely the perfect ones. They’re the authentic ones – the laughter during a speech, the happy tears, the shared smiles and the genuine connections. Those are the moments that stay with us long after the day itself has passed. n Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.

To find out more contact Lynn on 07753 579745 or go to: focus101.co.uk

LUXURY RETREATS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT At Gilpin, everything feels personal, effortless, and genuinely special. Exceptional service, stunning surroundings, beautiful spa experiences, and incredible dining at the Michelinstarred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and Gilpin Spice.

Stay

Dine

Spa

Choose between the laidback Gilpin Hotel or the charming Gilpin Lake House, with beautiful bedrooms (many with private spa facilities), gorgeous grounds and delicious dining. From romantic escapes and relaxing spa breaks to seasonal stays, so that you can make the most of time together in the Lakes.

Experience dining excellence at our two acclaimed restaurants, Michelin-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and pan-Asian Gilpin Spice, or indulge in afternoon tea at our scenic Lake House. From seasonal tasting menus and bold flavours to a traditional selection of sweet and savoury treats, there’s plenty to discover.

Wellness is at the heart of the Gilpin experience, with private Spa Trails, two dedicated spas and wellness facilities in many of our bedrooms. From private hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms to inroom treatments, there are plenty of ways to relax and recharge during your stay.

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

015394 88818

www.thegilpin.co.uk

weddings

AUTUMN LOVE STORY If you are dreaming of an autumn wedding, now is the perfect time to start planning

here is something truly magical about an autumn wedding. As the leaves turn golden and the countryside is filled with rich shades of red, orange and brown, autumn provides a beautiful natural backdrop for your special day. One of the biggest advantages of an autumn wedding is the atmosphere. Cooler temperatures create the perfect excuse for candlelit tables, warm drinks, blankets and cosy indoor spaces. Imagine celebrating with soft lighting, seasonal flowers and delicious food, surrounded by friends and family. It can feel intimate, relaxed and wonderfully romantic. Autumn also offers plenty of inspiration for your wedding colours. Deep burgundy, burnt orange, forest green, gold and warm neutral shades can create a sophisticated colour scheme. These colours work beautifully with flowers, bridesmaid dresses, invitations and table decorations. Natural foliage, berries, dried flowers

and seasonal greenery can add texture and character to your celebration. Your menu can become part of the autumn experience too. Seasonal ingredients provide plenty of opportunities for delicious and comforting food. Think hearty main courses, apple desserts, spiced cakes and warming drinks for guests to enjoy. Even your wedding cake can embrace the season with autumnal colours, fruit, foliage or edible flowers.

COOLER TEMPERATURES CREATE THE PERFECT EXCUSE FOR CANDLELIT TABLES, WARM DRINKS, BLANKETS AND COSY INDOOR SPACES Fashion is another reason to love an autumn wedding. Cooler weather allows brides and bridesmaids to add stylish layers, such as elegant shawls, wraps or jackets. Grooms and guests can embrace richer colours and fabrics too. There is also something wonderfully cosy about photographs taken outdoors among colourful autumn leaves. Of course, autumn weather can be unpredictable, so good planning is essential. Choose a venue with attractive indoor spaces

as well as outdoor areas and make sure you have a plan B for photographs and the ceremony. Providing umbrellas, blankets or heaters can also help guests stay comfortable if the temperature drops or rain arrives. So why should you start planning now? Autumn weddings are popular, and the best venues and suppliers can become booked well in advance. Starting early gives you more choice when it comes to your venue, photographer, florist, caterer and entertainment. It also gives you time to compare prices and make decisions without unnecessary pressure. Planning ahead means you can enjoy the exciting parts of organising your wedding rather than rushing at the last minute. You will have time to think about the small details that make the day memorable, from handwritten place cards and seasonal flowers to thoughtful wedding favours. Whether you picture a grand country-house celebration or a small gathering surrounded by autumn leaves, this season offers endless possibilities. With its beautiful colours, cosy atmosphere and naturally romantic setting, autumn could be the perfect time to say “I do”. If that is your dream, there is no better time to start turning your plans into reality. n

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thesaddleroom.co.uk

FOXFIELDS COUNTRY HOTEL

a romantic wedding venue

Set within 9 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, Foxfields Country Hotel offers a romantic countryside setting for your special day. Independently and family owned, we can host intimate celebrations for 15 guests through to weddings of up to 200 guests, with our Pendle Suite, gazebo and gardens providing beautiful settings for your ceremony and photographs. With 42 comfortable bedrooms and spacious suites, your guests can relax and stay with us, while our dedicated team are on hand to help create a truly memorable wedding day. 01254 822556 | foxfieldshotel.com | enquiries@foxfieldshotel.co.uk Foxfields Country Hotel,Whalley Road, Billington, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB7 9HY

weddings

COUNTRY HOUSE ELEGANCE Abbey House Hotel offers couples a beautiful, romantic wedding venue with stunning gardens, luxurious accommodation and exceptional hospitality

ombining classic elegance with warm, personal service, the historic Abbey House, that has played host to dignitaries and royalty, has become one of the region's most sought-after wedding venues. Whether couples dream of an intimate celebration or a grand gathering, the experienced wedding team works closely with them to create a day that reflects their individual style, with flexible packages, bespoke menus and even exclusive use of the hotel. The venue has recently unveiled its beautiful new Wedding Garden, providing a dedicated outdoor ceremony space surrounded by immaculate lawns and lovely floral borders. It is an idyllic setting for exchanging vows beneath open skies before celebrating with drinks and photographs in the stunning grounds. Inside, the opulent reception rooms offer an equally impressive backdrop, whatever the season. Sales and Events Manager Donna Conroy, explains: “The Wedding Garden offers further flexibility for couples who can choose from a wide range of packages to suit every budget. “We are licensed for weddings seven days a week, giving couples complete freedom to choose any day that suits them best.”

WEDDING OPEN DAYS

ABBEY HOUSE HOTEL, CUMBRIA Sunday 8th November & Sunday 10th January 2027 TIME: 11AM – 2PM

BOOKING NOT NECESSARY

For guests travelling from the Dales, Abbey House is perfectly placed for a wedding weekend away. Excellent road links make for an easy journey, while the hotel's 59 bedrooms, including three luxurious honeymoon suites, allows guests to stay together and continue the celebrations long after the evening reception ends. Food is another highlight. Wedding breakfasts are created by the talented kitchen team behind the hotel's AA Rosette restaurant, Oscar's, ensuring every menu is as memorable as the setting itself. Every wedding is supported by a highly experienced events team whose attention to detail has earned Abbey House an outstanding reputation. From planning right through to the final dance, their calm professionalism allows couples to relax and enjoy every moment. The venue hosts around 100 weddings each year, yet every celebration is treated as completely unique. Photography opportunities are endless, from the handsome honey sandstone exterior to the woodland walks and beautifully maintained gardens – and adding a touch of fun is Herbie, the hotel's charming wedding buggy, which transports the wedding party around the grounds for unforgettable photographs.

Romantic in every season, from colourful summer garden ceremonies to cosy winter celebrations beneath twinkling lights, Abbey House Hotel is a venue where exceptional surroundings, outstanding hospitality and meticulous attention to detail come together to create unforgettable weddings. n

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens Abbey Road Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria LA13 0PA 01229 838282 abbeyhousehotel.com

IT STARTED WITH A YES When Bashall was transformed into a dedicated wedding venue, the large sliding barn doors became more than just practical features, they became part of the experience.

Every wedding tells a different story. Long before the dress, the flowers or the first dance, every wedding begins with one simple word: ‘Yes’

Photography: Charlotte Shepherd Photography

t Bashall Barn, it started with a ‘yes’ too. Yes, to transforming the family farm into a wedding venue. Yes, to creating a place where couples could celebrate in their own way. And every year since, we’ve continued saying yes to new ideas, new traditions and new ways of making weddings feel personal. Over the last decade we’ve watched weddings evolve. Couples are less interested in following a formula and more interested in creating a day that reflects who they are. Whether that’s a twilight celebration, a wedding planned in just a few months, bespoke menus created by our own chefs, or a four-legged ring bearer, we’re always asking one question, ‘How can we make it happen?’ Being an independent, family-owned venue means we can be flexible. Owner Simon Barnes is still involved in the day-to-day running of Bashall because this place has always been close to his heart. Every wedding matters because every couple matters. One of the things guests remember most is the journey through the venue itself.

of doors marks the next chapter of the day, creating those magical ‘wow’ moments guests talk about long after the wedding. Of course, saying yes doesn’t mean saying yes to endless extras. The team at Bashall Barn believe in being transparent. That’s why the Wedding Store, filled with centrepieces, easels, hurricane jars and styling pieces, is free for our couples to use. Fairylights, projectors, white table linen and the use of The Den for partners to get ready, are all included too, because we believe those little details should simply be part of the experience. Weddings will continue to change. Trends will come and go. Planning times may get shorter. Guest lists may become bigger or smaller. But every unforgettable wedding still starts in exactly the same way. With a yes. n

EVERY WEDDING MATTERS BECAUSE EVERY COUPLE MATTERS They create moments of anticipation, from opening into a beautifully dressed wedding breakfast room to later revealing the evening celebrations. Imagine your guests waiting as the doors slide open to reveal the newlyweds striking a dramatic pose at the bar, or perhaps your band ready to start the party. Every set

Bashall Barn Bashall Eaves Clitheroe BB7 3LQ 01200 428964 weddings@bashallbarn.co.uk bashallbarn.co.uk

Photography: Kyle Mac Photography

weddings

Photography: Kyle Mac Photography

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A collection of 7 Dream Venues across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley, Wyre & Yorkshire Dales.

Dream Wedding Showcases Find ‘the one’ for your big day. Explore our beautiful venues at a Dream Wedding Showcase, or enjoy a more personal experience with a private showaround. Visit www.dreamvenues.co.uk to discover upcoming Showcase dates or book your private viewing.

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Paige Hargreaves, Love & Luna, James Jebson, Paige Hargreaves, Nick English & Emilie May

EDUCATIONN E W S GCSE RESULTS

“Stonyhurst is celebrating another strong set of academic results as pupils receive their 2026 GCSE grades, bringing the school’s examination results season to a successful close. This year, 16 per cent of grades were awarded at Grade 9, 30 per cent at Grades 9–8 and 45 per cent at Grades 9–7.

A school spokesperson said: “Pupils achieved strong results across a broad range of subjects, with several pupils securing exclusively Grade 9s and 15 per cent of pupils achieving exclusively Grades 8s and 9s. The results reflect strong year-on-year progress and the hard work and commitment of pupils and teaching staff.”

STRONG ACHIEVEMENTS

Stonyhurst is celebrating the achievements of its 2026 leavers following the publication of this year’s results. Across A Level, IB and Cambridge Technical qualifications 46 per cent of outcomes were graded at A*-A equivalent or better, with 59 per cent of outcomes graded at A*-B equivalent or better.

A spokesperson said: “Beyond the grades, our pupils continue to make strong academic progress, with Stonyhurst placed within the top 25 per cent of schools nationally for pupil progress and a range of subjects ranking within the top 1 per cent and top 10 per cent nationally. Our leavers are now preparing to take their next steps, with over 60 per cent heading to Russell Group universities alongside leading international destinations.”

NEW ERA FOR NETBALL

Sedbergh School is announcing an exciting new netball partnership with AO Manchester Thunder, becoming the club’s first official regional hub outside Greater Manchester. The new Cumbria Hub will bring Thunder’s elite player pathway to Sedbergh, creating outstanding opportunities for talented young players across Cumbria and the North West.

The school said: “With expert coaching, exceptional facilities and programmes from U12 through to 16+, this landmark partnership strengthens Sedbergh’s position at the forefront of school sport and athlete development.”

B o ard d e r

in lo at i g a T stonyhurst Join the school voted The Best Senior School for Boarding

Board here during the week

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Weekly, flexi and occasional boarding options available

Open Days on 24th September & 3rd October

stonyhurst.ac.uk/tailored-boarding Scan the QR code to book your place

Co-ed 11-18 | Boarding & Day Jesuit, Catholic School

GLOBAL VISION Drawing on decades of leadership in Jesuit schools around the world, Stonyhurst’s new Head, William Doherty, is guiding pupils to thrive through reflection, service and a sense of purpose

hen William Doherty arrived at Stonyhurst earlier this year, he found himself captivated not only by the beauty and history of the school but, more importantly, by the people who bring it to life: “It is a stunning environment in which to work, but my strongest first impressions were of the people,” he says. “It’s easy to get absorbed in the history and the grandeur of the place but for me it is the people and in particular the pupils, who make Stonyhurst so special. They are happy, joyful, courteous and polite.” As the new Head of Stonyhurst, William joins one of the most historic educational institutions in the world. Founded in 1593, Stonyhurst is the oldest continuously operating Jesuit school globally and occupies a spectacular 1,000-acre estate in the Ribble Valley. Yet despite its rich heritage, William believes its enduring success lies in its ability to remain relevant.

Born and educated in Brisbane, Australia, William spent his final two years at school as a boarder before beginning his teaching career at St Ignatius’ College Riverview, a leading Jesuit day and boarding school in Sydney. More than three decades later, following senior leadership roles across Australia and Singapore, he has brought his extensive experience of Jesuit education to Lancashire. For William, the philosophy underpinning a Jesuit education has never been more important: “I think a Jesuit education is more relevant than ever in the 21st century,” he explains. “A Jesuit education is not one

dimensional – too often schools are focused on academic achievement, but a Jesuit education focuses on the whole person. “It is about putting fundamental traits such as morality, spirituality, wellbeing, decision-making, reflection and service at the core of the entire person. In Jesuit schools you see the person, not the product.”

A JESUIT EDUCATION ENCOURAGES DISCERNMENT AND GRATITUDE: RECOGNISING WHAT BRINGS YOU JOY, AND LEARNING TO APPRECIATE IT That commitment to educating the whole person is central to Stonyhurst’s mission. Alongside academic excellence, the school places equal emphasis on character formation, leadership, service and wellbeing, guided by the Jesuit principle of cura personalis – care for the whole person. William believes that one of the most valuable qualities schools can nurture today is the ability to reflect.

education

“I think we have lost the power of reflection,” he says. “We are preparing young people to take action and make decisions, but what matters most is the ethics that guide their choices. We encourage pupils to pause, reflect and consider the impact of their decisions before they act.” It is an approach that prepares young people not only for examinations and university but also for the complexities of modern life. “We live in a global, complex world and we are aware of the challenges of our time,” William says. “We want to give our pupils the confidence to go into different frontiers. They need to engage with others both virtually and physically. We give pupils many and varied opportunities, so they experience a lot about the world around them. We think it is important to produce citizens that impact the world.”

That blend of tradition and innovation remains a defining characteristic of Stonyhurst. While the school proudly celebrates more than four centuries of history, William is equally focused on ensuring pupils are equipped for the future. “Stonyhurst has more than 430 years of tradition and innovation, and it is important that a school with such a rich history continues to look forward as well as draw on the wisdom of the past,” he says. “The Jesuit philosophy is: don’t get so attached to the past that you can’t detach and look ahead.” For pupils, this includes embracing emerging technologies thoughtfully and responsibly. “AI has come along so let’s embrace the best of it in an ethical and discerning way. It’s a fine balance.” Recent recognition from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) reinforces the strength of Stonyhurst’s approach. The school met all Independent School Standards and was awarded the rare distinction of a Significant Strength for its Co-curricular provision. “Again, this is about educating the whole person,” William explains. “Pupils grow and develop because of the

Co-curricular Programme – it makes an impact on their formation.” The inspection also highlighted the school’s welcoming community, strong pastoral care, commitment to wellbeing and the respect pupils show towards different cultures and perspectives.

OUR AIM IS TO CULTIVATE OUTSTANDING TEAM PLAYERS WHO HAVE A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE William sees the combination of day and boarding pupils as another of Stonyhurst’s great strengths: “We have a fantastic blend of boarding and day pupils,” he says. “From a boarding point of view, we recognise that it often represents a great sacrifice on behalf of parents as it is all about letting go – preparing your children to fly from the nest with confidence.” Looking ahead, William’s ambitions are clear: “Our aim is to cultivate outstanding team players who have a global perspective. Academic formation is important along with the development of good intellectual habits by way of clear thinking and knowing when to act.

“A Jesuit education encourages discernment and gratitude: recognising what brings you joy, and learning to appreciate it,” adds William. With his wife, Terina, William is equally enthusiastic about their new home in the Lancashire countryside: “I love it here in the Ribble Valley – it is so beautiful!” It is a fitting sentiment for a Head whose vision combines appreciation for tradition with a determination to prepare young people for a changing world. At Stonyhurst, he believes education is about much more than academic success. It is about helping every pupil discover their purpose, develop their character and make a positive difference wherever life takes them. n

Discover more at an Open Day

Stonyhurst Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073 stonyhurst.ac.uk ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

tress and anxiety in UK children is reportedly at an all-time high. With figures showing that 20.3 per cent of eight to 16-year-olds have a ‘probable mental disorder’, elevated mental health problems are significantly disrupting classrooms, driving higher absenteeism, reduced academic engagement and increased behavioural problems. For Melissa Watson, English tutor and founder of Thrive Learning tutoring services in Ilkley, this is a personal and familiar story. A decade since sitting her GCSEs, she reflects on how stress and anxiety plagued her own school years. “I was always a sensitive child and found myself struggling at secondary school. The pressure to educationally excel only worsened my anxiety as I tried to prove my worth through academic success,” she says. “It became a self-destructive cycle. The more I achieved, the more I felt I needed to achieve. The pressure I put on myself – and the pressure

REMOVING BARRIERS TO EDUCATION For Melissa Watson secondary school brought overwhelming stress and anxiety. But she is putting her own experience to good use with the launch of a tutoring service to help children overcome their struggles

from school – was overwhelming. My identity became defined by my success which only perpetuated the stress I was feeling. I was constantly exhausted, withdrew from socialising and battled an eating disorder. My balance between education and life skewed further each year.”

THE PRESSURE TO EDUCATIONALLY EXCEL ONLY WORSENED MY ANXIETY AS I TRIED TO PROVE MY WORTH THROUGH ACADEMIC SUCCESS Melissa achieved A*-grades in her GCSEs and A levels. At university she secured a First-Class Honours Degree in Journalism while working part time at Ilkley Grammar School, supporting students with special educational needs. “Supporting students who felt the challenges of mainstream education was eye-opening, as I could see my own experiences reflected back at me. It was rewarding being able to relate to their difficulties and make a difference to how they could learn,” she says. “That’s when I decided to become a teacher and began my Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).”

education

As an English teacher Melissa worked in schools including Colne Park High and Prince Henry’s in Otley. “Because of the range of needs in today’s classrooms, it’s impossible to tailor lessons to effectively support every young person,” she continues. “I realised that if I really wanted to make a difference, it needed to be in small groups or one-to-one tutoring. After spending two years at a tutoring agency, I decided that the only way of delivering a truly bespoke learning experience was to take the plunge and do it myself.” Melissa has now realised her vision and launched Thrive Learning, a personalised English tutoring service which supports students one-to-one in their own homes, online or from her learning space in Ilkley.

MANY ANXIETIES ARE A GENUINE RESPONSE TO AN ENVIRONMENT WHICH IS UNSUITABLE AND YET STUDENTS ARE OFTEN MADE TO FEEL THEY ARE THE PROBLEM Students include those seeking additional support with English and exam preparations, those with school and classroom-related anxiety and students with autism and special educational needs. “Teaching one-to-one finally feels like finding my home,” says Melissa. “The years spent suffering with my educational anxieties and then as a teacher, wrestling with making a difference in the classroom, mean I have a deep, personal understanding of what many students are experiencing and of the environment they face at school. “One style of education does not suit all. To have the insights and the headspace to understand what my students need to feel engaged, while having the techniques to help manage overwhelm and the time to create bespoke lessons to help support learning and foster enjoyment within education, is a gift.” One parent from Ilkley, whose daughter was falling behind after finding the classroom environment overwhelming and stressful, contacted Thrive in March this year. She said in just six months, Melissa had been “transformative” in their daughter’s learning journey. “We contacted Thrive for additional support with English and not only has Melissa helped bring our daughter’s English skills back up to speed, she has also played a huge role in rebuilding her confidence and self-belief,” she explains.

Removing barriers to learning is key to Melissa’s tutoring style. “I see young people with all sorts of needs, including those who can’t access learning in the classroom because of sensory discomfort, overstimulation or emotional dysregulation. One student says she benefits because of the release of pressure, noise and overload in the classroom and

feels it’s a good way for her overly anxious mind to learn. “Many anxieties are a genuine response to an environment which is unsuitable, and yet students are often made to feel they are the problem. I focus on removing as many barriers to learning as I can – and environment is key. Feeling safe, heard and supported is what we all need to thrive, and this has never been more important than in today’s changing educational and social landscape.” n

To contact Melissa email: thrivelearningilkley@gmail.com You can also follow Thrive Learning posts on Facebook, or call Melissa directly on 07889 665301.

education

What should families expect from their child’s time at Sedbergh? Families are investing in opportunities. We want pupils to follow their passions, take the lead in areas that inspire them and make the most of what is available, rather than being spoon-fed.

MEET THE HEAD Robin Pyper, Headmaster of the Senior School at Sedbergh School talks about strong values, future plans and what makes Sedbergh stand out

edbergh School’s new Senior School Headmaster took up the role in April 2026, succeeding Dan Harrison.

What kind of school leader would you like to be remembered as? People are at the heart of everything I do. With every decision, I ask: how is this going to benefit the pupils? Relationships and trust are central to everything we do and trust is a two-way street. My aim is to make Sedbergh even better by gently evolving and improving the things we already do really well.

When you first arrived at Sedbergh, what struck you the most? The obvious answer is the incredible landscape, but what struck me most was the sense of community and togetherness. It exists between pupils, staff and the local community. There is a real sense of warmth, openness and welcome that you simply can’t manufacture.

Sport, music and performing arts are also hugely important, as is our famous Friday morning congregation where pupils come together and sing. Each and every pupil has the opportunity to develop their talents and take genuine pride in being part of Sedbergh. Is outdoor adventure as important as classroom learning? Absolutely. We believe in developing the whole person. Pupils can be pushed outside their comfort zone mentally, physically and emotionally and it is often in those moments that they discover more about themselves and develop resilience. Looking ahead, what legacy would you like to leave? Quite simply, to make Sedbergh an even better school. It isn’t about changing what we do, but doing it even better, offering an outstanding holistic education with real breadth of opportunity, while instilling our core values of humility, ambition, resilience and kindness.

Robin Pyper previously served as Deputy Rector (Senior Deputy Head) at Dollar Academy. His earlier roles included leadership positions at Merchiston Castle School and Lord Wandsworth College. He began teaching at Bloxham School. He was educated at Gordonstoun, studied Sport Science & Physiology at Leeds, trained as a teacher at Warwick and completed an MA in Educational Leadership at Exeter with Distinction.

Outstanding pastoral care underpins everything we do here and the boarding houses create strong communities where pupils live and grow together, while giving us the opportunity to support each individual.

How do you define success for a pupil beyond exam results? One of my favourite phrases came from a wise teacher: “too often we have made the measurable important, rather than the important measurable.” Academic results are important, but we shouldn’t focus solely on what is easiest to measure. At Sedbergh, we want to nurture young people who are inwardly confident and outwardly modest, with the character and values to go out into the world and make a positive difference.

And finally, what piece of advice would you give to every Sedbergh pupil? “Do what is right and not what is easy.” Character is what you do when nobody else is watching. Be true to yourself, embrace challenge and don’t always take the easy route. n Sedbergh School Sedbergh, Cumbria LA10 5HG 01539 620535 sedberghschool.org

YOUR LEGAL COMPANIONS With offices throughout the Dales from Sedbergh to Skipton, we understand farmers, farming and the needs of those involved in the sector. We’re a family law firm where agricultural matters are at the heart of our business and can offer expert, but local, advice on: • Agricultural Disputes • Agricultural Land • Common Rights • Partnership Agreements • Wills, Divorce & Family Law • Wind Farms & Green Energy

Commercial Advice Personal Support Offices at:

Barnard Castle - 01833 600160

Hawes - 01969 666290

Darlington - 01325 777000

Sedbergh - 015396 22340

Darlington Auction Mart - 01325 965111

Leyburn - 01969 621230 Grassington - 01756 753015

Authorised and regulated by The Solicitors Regulation Authority Number 8000441

www.mcgarrylaw.co.uk office@mcgarrylaw.co.uk

business

one that reconnects guests with the countryside which surrounds them. “I think people are craving something real,” he says. “People come here because they want to experience Yorkshire. They want to enjoy the views, eat local food and feel connected to the place they’re visiting.”

Following in the footsteps of his uncle and his father, Roddy Bannister grew up on the Coniston country estate and is now leading the way, welcoming guests to the reinvigorated Coniston Hotel and Spa

hen Roddy Bannister talks about The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, it’s impossible to separate the business from the man. This isn’t simply a hotel, but a family legacy which has become his own. “It sounds like a cliché, but it’s absolutely in my blood,” says Roddy. “I grew up here and I’ve experienced the very best of what the countryside can offer. It’s the most wonderful, special place and I want to share that with as many people as possible.” Now, as Managing Director, Roddy represents the third generation of his family to lead The Coniston, following in the footsteps of first his uncle and then his father. Taking the reins has come at one of the most challenging periods the hospitality industry has ever faced, but Roddy is clear about his vision – restoring the hotel back to doing what it has always done best. He continues: “I’ve been brought up in hospitality and I know it’s probably the hardest industry to be a part of, especially at the moment. It’s never been tougher.” Roddy remembers a very different Coniston from his childhood. “Fifteen years ago, the hotel was smaller, much more community-centred and it just worked,” he explains. “As the business grew, it inevitably became more complicated to run. That coincided with economic uncertainty, the financial downturn, Covid and rising costs. It all culminated in a bit of a perfect storm.” By the end of 2025, the business was facing significant challenges and a potential sale was being explored. Since then, Roddy has successfully led a major financial restructuring, providing the stability and breathing space required to concentrate on recovery and growth.

Roddy explains: “We’ve managed to restructure things into something much more manageable and sustainable, which gives us the opportunity to concentrate on getting the business back to where it should be. We also have some of the best and most passionate people in place to form what is now an amazing and focused management team.” For Roddy and the whole of the team, that begins with rediscovering the essence of hospitality.

IT SOUNDS LIKE A CLICHÉ, BUT IT’S ABSOLUTELY IN MY BLOOD. I GREW UP HERE AND I’VE EXPERIENCED THE VERY BEST OF WHAT THE YORKSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE CAN OFFER “I think we’d lost sight of what really matters,” he says. “We’re in the service industry and the guest has to be placed at the centre of absolutely everything. Providing an outstanding experience has always got to be our goal – it sounds obvious, but somewhere along the way, we’d forgotten that.” Rather than trying to be all things to all people, Roddy believes The Coniston’s greatest strength has always been its authenticity. “We need to be much clearer about what we are,” he says. “We’re a genuine, honest Yorkshire hospitality venue. What truly sets The Coniston apart is the estate itself. Nobody else has what we’ve got here – you drive in off the road and the building looks fairly unassuming. Then you walk through the doors and you’re greeted by this incredible view across the lake towards Malham Moor and Gordale Scar. It’s breathtaking.” That landscape forms the foundation of Roddy’s long-term vision for the business,

His ambition is to create an estate-led hospitality experience where livestock, gardens and local produce all become part of the guest journey. “We have all the elements in place already and we’d love guests to share in that experience – from the produce in the walled garden and the cattle in the fields, right through to what’s then produced in the kitchen. It becomes a circular ecosystem that’s sustainable, traceable and authentic.”

PROVIDING AN OUTSTANDING EXPERIENCE FOR THE GUEST HAS ALWAYS GOT TO BE OUR GOAL That renewed focus is already being driven by the new leadership team, including recently appointed Head Chef Mark Constable, who brings with him a passion for showcasing seasonal Yorkshire produce. Beyond the hotel itself, guests can immerse themselves in everything the estate has to offer, from clay pigeon shooting, fishing and archery to off-road 4x4 driving and relaxing spa facilities – all set against one of the famous county’s most spectacular landscapes. For Roddy and the team, however, the future isn’t about reinventing The Coniston – it’s about rediscovering what made it so special in the first place. “If we can give people the very best of Yorkshire, make them feel genuinely welcome and create experiences they’ll remember, then we’ll be successful,” he says. “We’re incredibly lucky to live in a place like this and we’re really excited about what the future holds for both the hotel and the estate.” n

The Coniston Hotel, Country Estate & Spa Coniston Cold Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 4EA 01756 748080 theconistonhotel.com

business

BUSINESS MATTERS

Here is some of the latest news from businesses in and around the Dales.

If you have business news contact: annette.mcintyre@live-magazines.co.uk

BUSINESS AWARDS FINALISTS

Sarah Howsen, Skipton BID Manager, said: “The judges said every category in this year’s awards included tough competition. In fact, they said it was the most difficult year yet. “We were pleased with the high quality of entries, showing how passionate our local business community is about the Business Awards. “Each finalist has been contacted – and we can’t wait to celebrate with you all at the ceremony in October!” Among the awards is Skipton’s Shining Star, which highlights those who make an outstanding contribution to the town’s community. The finalists for this are Dean Majors, Gillian Seed, Skipton Step Into Action and Share Skipton.

The finalists have been announced in this year’s Skipton Business Awards after more than 1,200 nominations. The annual awards are organised by Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) to celebrate the local business network, with entries received from across the town.

Sarah added: “We really couldn’t do it without the support of our sponsors every year, so a huge thank you goes out to them.” To view the full list of sponsors and finalists visit the BID website: skiptonbid.com

FREE ONLINE TRAINING Ilkley Business Improvement District (BID) has partnered with leading online training provider Virtual College to give more than 300 levy-paying businesses access to over 50 online training courses free of charge. The initiative means every member of staff working within an Ilkley BID business can access high-quality online training designed to develop skills, improve compliance and support professional development, while potentially saving businesses

thousands of pounds in external training costs.

• Health and Safety, with RoSPAassured courses

Virtual College is one of the UK’s leading providers of online compliance and professional development training. Through the partnership, businesses will have unlimited access to its extensive course library, including:

• Leadership and Management

• Food and Drink, including Level 1 Food Safety and Hygiene • Business Compliance, including GDPR and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

WOOLLY SHEEP TRAIL

• Personal and Professional Development Sarah Brookfield-Almond, Ilkley BID Manager, said: “We are always looking for ways to support our local businesses and this initiative is another example of how we are delivering practical benefits that help businesses thrive.”

Improvement District (BID), to encourage residents and visitors to explore the town centre while supporting local businesses and raising money for charity. Volunteers have been crocheting, weaving and knitting for more than six months to create 21 different sheep models themed around businesses based in Skipton. Celebrating ‘Sheep Town’s’ heritage, the Skipton Woolly Sheep Trail will run until 27th September – the end of Yarndale. The models will be auctioned to raise money for Spirit of Endeavour, which provides accessible canal trips around Skipton.

Visitors to Skipton have been enjoying the town’s brand-new Woolly Sheep Trail over the summer.

Stephanie Haithwaite, of Spinning Jenny and one of the volunteers that worked on the project, said “We’re incredibly proud to see the project finally unveiled, not only because it celebrates creativity and showcases our wonderful town, but because it’s helping to raise awareness and support for the incredible work of Spirit of Endeavour.”

The free, family friendly event has been organised by local organisation Spinning Jenny and Skipton Business

Trail sheets, maps and passports can be collected from inside Craven Court.

motors

were their own, every team member shares a common goal: making every visit effortless and enjoyable. We understand that choosing and maintaining a vehicle is a significant event in anyone’s life, this is why the team at Lloyd Colne goes beyond the transaction to provide honest advice, clear guidance and

RE-DISCOVERING EXCELLENCE If you’re looking for motoring excellence you’ll find it in established business Lloyd Colne

ince joining the Lloyd Motor Group family in 2007 following the acquisition of the former Prestons site, Lloyd Colne has stood as a cornerstone of automotive excellence for drivers across Lancashire and the surrounding area. While our presence in Colne spans nearly two decades, our commitment to delivering a warm, customer-focused experience remains as fresh and dedicated as ever. As part of the wider Lloyd Motor Group – which has grown from a single Cumbrian retailer established in 1976 into a trusted family-owned network with over 1,700 employees across more than 40 locations – Lloyd Colne combines the strength and resources of one of the UK’s leading automotive groups with the personal touch of a close-knit local dealership. Whether you are searching for your next car, exploring

certified pre-owned vehicles, or seeking specialist maintenance, our showroom offers an inviting environment tailored to your needs. As custodians of the BMW and MINI brands, alongside our industry accredited Bodyshop, we ensure that every experience with us is representative of brand.

WHILE OUR PRESENCE IN COLNE SPANS NEARLY TWO DECADES, OUR COMMITMENT TO DELIVERING A WARM, CUSTOMER-FOCUSED EXPERIENCE REMAINS AS FRESH AND DEDICATED AS EVER At the heart of Lloyd Colne is our team – a dedicated group of familiar faces, seasoned specialists and skilled technicians who take genuine pride in what they do. From our knowledgeable sales advisors who guide you through the latest model innovations and electric technology, to our factory-trained technicians who care for your car as if it

ongoing support. Whether you are dropping in for a casual catch-up and a coffee, booking routine servicing, or exploring luxury vehicle ownership for the first time, you can always count on a warm welcome and expert care. As proud custodians of the BMW and MINI brands – supported by our industryaccredited Bodyshop – we ensure that every touchpoint and experience with us reflects the prestige and quality of these iconic names. This commitment to brand excellence is deeply rooted in our wider history as part of Lloyd Motor Group, which proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Five decades on from opening our first dealership, the values of integrity, passion, and personal service continue to guide everything we do at Lloyd Colne today. As we look to the future, the team at Lloyd Colne remains proud to uphold the standards, family values and local commitment that have defined the Lloyd name for fifty years. We warmly invite both long-standing customers and new visitors to step through our doors, reconnect with our team and experience the Lloyd difference for yourselves. n

Lloyd Colne Crown Way Colne BB8 9NP 01282 881816 lloydmotorgroup.com

heat, the prospect of spending hours behind the wheel could easily have been torturous. Instead, climbing into two very different electric cars turned out to be something of a revelation. The BMW iX xDrive45 M Sport was first up and, from the moment the door closed behind me, it was clear this was going to be a very different sort of drive. Cool, calm and remarkably quiet, its cabin felt almost cocoon-like against the heat outside. The air conditioning was working hard but there was none of the usual sense of battling the elements. Instead, the iX simply cruised along, making the journey feel effortless. There is certainly no shortage of performance either. Offering 408hp and an impressive range of up to 374 miles, depending on specification, the iX has the ability to cover serious distances without making a drama of it. There is instant acceleration when you want it and, on faster roads, it settles into a beautifully relaxed rhythm, making the outside world seem to disappear.

COOL, CALM & COLLECTED Two very different electric cars prove that going green doesn’t mean giving up comfort, character or driving pleasure

here are days when driving is something you look forward to and days when it is simply something you have to endure. On one of the hottest days of the year, with temperatures climbing and the roads shimmering in the

TOGETHER, THESE TWO CARS DEMONSTRATE JUST HOW BROAD THE APPEAL OF ELECTRIC MOTORING HAS BECOME The M Sport Pro Pack adds a more purposeful edge to the exterior while retaining the sophisticated feel of the car. Inside, the curved display, quality materials and supremely comfortable seats reinforce the impression that this is an electric SUV designed to make long journeys feel shorter. And that is perhaps the most impressive thing about the iX. It never feels like an electric car that is asking you to compromise in any way. Instead, it is a perfect example of how comfort, refinement and cutting-edge technology can come together to create what is widely considered by motoring critics to be one of the most highly rated driving experiences in its class. Next up was the MINI Aceman SE and, while the contrast could hardly have been greater, it was just as enjoyable in its own way. Where the BMW is all about serenity, the MINI brings personality. It is smaller, more playful and more connected to what is happening around you. The 218 PS electric motor gives it a useful turn of speed, with 0-62mph taking 7.1 seconds, while its official range of up to 238.6 miles

motors should be more than sufficient for most everyday driving. The Aceman also feels unmistakably MINI, with its distinctive design, nippy performance and agile handling. The driving position is good, the cabin is packed with character and the interior design is a refreshing change from the increasingly clinical approach taken by many electric cars. Our car’s 19-inch JCW wheels and JCW interior added another layer of attitude without becoming unnecessarily aggressive.

THIS YEAR MARKS 50 YEARS OF LLOYD IN BUSINESS AND LONGEVITY IN THE MOTOR TRADE DOES NOT HAPPEN BY ACCIDENT Inside, the large central OLED display dominates the dashboard and gives the Aceman a genuinely modern feel. There is useful practicality too, with five seats and a 300-litre boot that expands to more than 1,000 litres with the rear seats folded. It may not be the largest car in its class but it is more than capable of handling everyday family life. Together, these two cars demonstrate just how broad the appeal of electric motoring has become. The BMW is the choice for someone who wants space, luxury, effortless performance and the ability to cover long distances without arriving feeling as though they have just completed a workout. The MINI is smaller, cheekier and more characterful, offering a more compact package without sacrificing the benefits of electric driving. There is also a bigger story behind taking these two cars out. This year marks 50 years of Lloyd in business and longevity in the motor trade does not happen by accident. Customer relationships and retention have always been central to the business and that same philosophy is evident in the way it approaches vehicle finance. For sole traders, small local businesses and growing companies, Lloyd offers Business Contract Hire, Business Contract Purchase, Business Hire Purchase and outright purchase. Corey, who specialises in BMW business sales, takes a particularly personal approach, looking at how each business uses its vehicles before recommending the most appropriate solution. Packages can then be tailored around annual mileage, contract length, servicing and maintenance, with dedicated support throughout the

lifetime of the contract. It is an approach that makes sense. Choosing the right car is only part of the equation. How it fits into your life, your business and your budget matters just as much. And after a day when simply walking from the car to the door felt like hard work, both proved one thing rather convincingly. If you’re not already a convert to all-electric, then one of these two cars may just tip you over the edge. Electric motoring can be many things but, when the temperature is soaring, cool and calm is definitely high on the list. n

Lloyd Colne BMW and MINI Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720720 lloydcolnebmw.co.uk lloydcolnemini.co.uk @lloydcolnebmw @lloydcolnemini

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A STAY WORTH SAVOURING From Michelin-starred dining to seasonal menus and classic pub fare, Grantley Hall offers a sumptuous Yorkshire escape where every stay is an opportunity to savour more

or those who plan a getaway around where to eat next, one night at Grantley Hall may simply not be enough. Home to five restaurants, three bars and a quintessential Yorkshire country pub, the five-star retreat has all the ingredients for a two-day dining excursion, moving from Michelin-starred tasting menus and Asian-inspired dishes to Afternoon Tea, seasonal dining and comforting pub classics. Set within 38 acres of North Yorkshire countryside, Grantley Hall has become a gastronomic destination in its own right. The beauty of staying a little longer is the opportunity to experience its restaurants

as they were intended, at your own pace and without having to choose just one. Arrive in the afternoon and begin suitably with Afternoon Tea. Served within the opulent Drawing Room, it brings together dainty sandwiches, freshly baked scones and intricately crafted pâtisserie that changes with the seasons. Take your time over tea, add a glass of Champagne and allow the classical melodies floating through the room to leave you feeling relaxed and ready to check-in to your suite. Come evening, make Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall the centrepiece of your first night. The hotel’s Michelin-starred

restaurant is led by Chef Patron Shaun Rankin, whose menus are shaped by his Yorkshire upbringing and a commitment to hyperlocal produce harvested just steps from the restaurant within the Kitchen Garden.

SET WITHIN 38 ACRES OF NORTH YORKSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE, GRANTLEY HALL HAS BECOME A GASTRONOMIC DESTINATION IN ITS OWN RIGHT The ten-course Taste of Home menu features a collection of signature dishes for which Shaun has become renowned, from his distinctive bread course to the playful Magnum, which bridges the transition from savoury to sweet. Served in Grantley Hall’s original Music Room, the evening is elevated by its intuitive front-of-house team, whose meticulous attention to detail ensures every need is anticipated, allowing you to simply settle in and enjoy the experience from start to finish. The following morning leaves plenty more to discover. After exploring the grounds or spending a few hours in the Three Graces Spa,

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lunch can be a relaxed affair at Fletchers Restaurant. Sitting at the heart of Grantley Hall, Fletchers is the hotel’s home of brasserie-style, all-day dining overlooking the Norton Terrace and tranquil River Skell. The menu champions modern British cooking, drawing on seasonal ingredients with a modern twist, making it an easy addition to a stay when the day calls for something a little more laid-back. Lunch and evening menus both feature signature dishes including the Fillet of Beef Wellington alongside charcoal-flamed cuts from the Josper Grill. For something a little more relaxed, the Orchard offers a change of pace. Grantley Hall’s much-loved indoor-outdoor dining destination evolves throughout the year, transforming with the seasons to offer guests a new experience each time they return. As the Yorkshire countryside changes beyond its doors, the Orchard follows suit, with seasonal menus, creative drinks and beautiful interiors to match the time of year.

AS THE COLDER MONTHS ARRIVE AND THE FESTIVE SEASON APPROACHES, GRANTLEY HALL COMES INTO ITS OWN The atmosphere shifts again with the Pan-Asian creations of Bar & Restaurant EightyEight. Located separately to Grantley Hall within the grounds, this hidden gem brings an unexpected inner-city energy to its North Yorkshire setting. With Asian-inspired interiors, low lighting and booth seating for an intimate evening, Bar & Restaurant EightyEight is perfect for date nights and special occasions that deserve something a little more spectacular. With Head Chef Andy Lynam at the helm, dishes are made for sharing and do not hold back on theatre. Guests can choose from the à la carte menu or settle in for the 8 at EightyEight tasting menu, taking you through iconic dishes like the Thai-Spiced Halibut and Black Peppered Dry-Aged Beef Fillet. Before the journey home, there is one more stop worth making. Just around the corner from Grantley Hall sits the Grantley Arms, a local pub filled with quintessential Northern charm and the same level of luxury service you would expect from its sister property. Seasonal menus celebrate locally sourced ingredients, including comforting favourites like the North Sea Fish Pie and Braised Beef

& Ale Pie. Visit on a Sunday and the roast takes centre stage, complete with tender roasted meats, crisp Yorkshire puddings and all the trimmings. Whether stopping for lunch or simply enjoying a pint after an afternoon walk, it provides a fittingly relaxed finale to a food-filled stay. As the colder months arrive and the festive season approaches, Grantley Hall comes into its own. Magnificent trees, twinkling lights and festive installations transform the historic house and grounds, with festive

dining sitting at the heart of every visit. Throughout Grantley Hall, seasonal menus and a calendar of exclusive events offer an unforgettable Yorkshire escape that makes the winter something to look forward to. Whether you’re hosting a festive get-together or looking for a reason to extend your staycation by another night, discover just how much there is to taste at Grantley Hall. n grantleyhall.co.uk

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food&drink Soups are one of the easiest places to begin. Roasted butternut squash blended with onion, garlic and a touch of warming spice creates a velvety bowl that needs little more than crusty bread. For something earthier, try beetroot with apple or roast parsnip with thyme. A spoonful of Lancashire cheese stirred through just before serving adds extra richness and a welcome local note.

AUTUMN IS ALSO THE PERFECT TIME TO BRING SLOW COOKED DISHES BACK TO THE TABLE Autumn is also the perfect time to bring slow cooked dishes back to the table. Beef, lamb and game all benefit from gentle cooking with root vegetables, herbs and a splash of red wine or local ale. A Lancashire hotpot remains difficult to beat, especially when topped with thinly sliced potatoes that turn golden and crisp around the edges. Vegetarian versions work beautifully too, using mushrooms, lentils and caramelised onions beneath the traditional potato topping. For a lighter approach, roasted vegetables can form the heart of an autumn salad. Try combining squash, beetroot and red onion with peppery leaves, toasted hazelnuts and crumbly cheese. Warm grains such as pearl barley or spelt make the dish more substantial without losing its freshness. Fragrant spices

FLAVOURS OF AUTUMN As the fields, orchards and kitchens shift into autumn, seasonal produce brings warmth, colour and comforting flavours to every table here in the Ribble Valley

utumn has a way of changing the way we eat. As the evenings draw in and the air turns cooler, crisp salads and light summer plates make way for richer flavours, slow cooking and dishes designed to warm from the inside out. Lancashire and the Ribble Valley in particular, is well placed to make the most of the season. Local farms, markets and independent food shops begin to fill with pumpkins, squash, beetroot, apples, pears and sturdy greens such as kale and cabbage. These ingredients are affordable, versatile and full of flavour, making them ideal for relaxed family meals or more polished dishes for entertaining.

such as cinnamon, nutmeg and smoked paprika can deepen flavour without overwhelming the natural sweetness of autumn vegetables. Apples and pears naturally take centre stage when it comes to pudding. A classic crumble is always welcome, but baked apples stuffed with oats, cinnamon and dried fruit offer an equally comforting alternative. Pears poached in spiced apple juice can be served with cream, yoghurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Even simple everyday meals can be given an autumn lift. Add roasted pumpkin to risotto, stir sautéed mushrooms through pasta or top jacket potatoes with braised leeks and cheese. The key is to let seasonal ingredients do the work. Autumn cooking does not need to be complicated. With good produce, a little time and plenty of warmth, the season offers some of the most satisfying food of the year. n

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WEDNESDAY 25TH NOVEMBER TO FRIDAY 18TH DECEMBER STARTER LEEK AND POTATO SOUP [V] [GFO] Garlic Croutons, Aged Cheddar, Crusty Bread SMOKED SALMON & SMOKED MACKEREL PÂTÉ [GFO] Sea Salt & Pepper Croûtes, Pickled Cucumber Salad PULLED HAM HOCK & LEEK HASH CAKE Soft Poached Egg, Dijon Mustard Sauce, Chorizo Oil DEEP FRIED BRIE [V] Dressed Rocket & Apple Salad, Hot Honey

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MAINS TURKEY ESCALOPE Wrapped in Smoked Bacon, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Turkey Gravy GRILLED SEABASS FILLET [GF] Butternut Squash, Crispy Kale, Chive Cream Sauce, Herb Oil, Garlic Roast New Potatoes CONFIT DUCK LEG [GF] Star Anise & Orange Braised Red Cabbage, Glazed Carrots, Buttered Mash, Red Wine & Thyme Sauce KATSU TOFU [V] Golden Panko Tofu, Katsu Sauce, Coconut Rice, Pickled Asian Vegetables DESSERTS TIRAMISU [GF] Coffee, Mascarpone, Crushed Amaretti Biscuit APPLE & MINCEMEAT STRUDEL Proper Vanilla Custard BLOOD ORANGE CHEESECAKE Blood Orange Segments, Chantilly Cream STILTON & FRUIT CAKE Orchard Apple Chutney, Biscuits, Celery

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and in addition to your points, you will receive We appreciate the loyal custom you show rewards andandiscounts. us exclusive all year round, become SPC Member so we can show you how much. Sign up and receive a £5 voucher on your next visit. Sign up here and receive a £5 voucher Earn 5% back on all spend on food, drink enjoy on yourEnjoy next exclusive visit. or to accommodation. SPC Member rewards throughout the year.

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FESTIVE TREATS Tables of four or more dining on or before Friday 4th December on the three course festive menu, enjoy a bottle of house wine per four or a glass of prosecco each on the house.

Book online using code FESTIVE26

Tables of 10 or more require a pre-order and credit card authorisation of £10 per person. In the unlikely event of supply shortages, ingredients could be subject to change.

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For larger tables of 10 or more dining on the three course festive menu, as a thank you to the party organiser, we will be gifting a £50 voucher on the day you dine to redeem in January or February 2027.

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POTATO PANCAKES

Serves: 12

Prep time: 40 Minutes

WITH SPINACH, SCRAMBLED EGG & NDUJA BUTTER

Cook time: 15 Minutes

As autumn arrives, this tasty potato pancake recipe featuring warming nduja butter, is brought to you by Booths

For the potato pancakes:

Ingredients:

75g salted butter

4 free range eggs 50g nduja

1 pack baby spinach 4 Maris Piper potatoes 1 shallot, thinly sliced 25g self-raising flour 2 free range eggs 1 1

/2 tsp salt

/2 tsp crushed black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Method: • Wash the potatoes and then grate the potato into a clean tea towel.

• Squeeze all the potato water out and place into a bowl with the shallot, flour, two eggs, salt and pepper and bring together. Split into four even sized balls. • Melt 25g butter with two tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan and add the four potato pancakes. Press gently to flatten and shallow fry for two minutes. • Turn each pancake over and cook for a further two minutes. Once the pancakes have set and they hold together, flip again and cook for a further two minutes each side until they are golden and keep warm. • Scramble four eggs in 25g of butter and keep warm. • Add the remaining butter to a pan and fry the nduja to release all the spices and to make the buttery sauce, then wilt the spinach in the hot butter. • Plate the pancakes with a generous mound of scrambled egg, wilted spinach and dress with the nduja butter. n Chef’s tip: The pancakes can be batch cooked in advance and frozen, then simply grilled from frozen to heat up. Visit booths.co.uk/recipes for more great recipe ideas.

booths.co.uk

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CHR I STM IS COM AS OPE I N NO G N 08 .10.2 026

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food&drink Michael’s steak and ale suet pudding has become something of a signature, while Lancashire cheese soufflé shows how familiar ingredients can be elevated when treated properly. Changing specials allow the kitchen to make the most of produce at its seasonal best. Autumn is when this style of cooking really comes into its own. After a day walking through the Ribble Valley countryside, there is something particularly appealing about returning to a warm pub, ordering a pint or opening a bottle of red and settling down to generous, comforting food. This autumn there is another good reason to make the journey, with The Higher Buck promoting its dinner, bed and breakfast offer from £180 per night on its website. The value has not been created by trimming back the experience. Guests still stay in one of seven individually

OVER THE BORDER With autumn calling, The Higher Buck makes a tempting base for a relaxed Ribble Valley escape filled with great food, walking and village charm, writes Tedd Walmsley

here are some places that seem made for autumn and Waddington is one of them. I caught up with Michael Heathcote at The Higher Buck and it struck me that, for readers of Live the Dales, this Ribble Valley village deserves to be on the radar for a midweek escape. For many of us, the instinct when contemplating a couple of nights away might be to head north towards the Lake District. Wonderful though that undoubtedly is, sometimes it pays to turn in another direction. Cross the border into Lancashire and Waddington is waiting. Just a couple of miles outside Clitheroe, it is a picturesque village where stone cottages line the streets, the brook meanders gently through the centre and surrounding countryside provides mile after mile of walking country.

At its heart is The Higher Buck. Michael Heathcote has been associated with excellent food and hospitality in the Ribble Valley for many years. His philosophy remains straightforward – really good food, great ingredients and somewhere people feel comfortable.

CHANGING SPECIALS ALLOW THE KITCHEN TO MAKE THE MOST OF PRODUCE AT ITS SEASONAL BEST That approach is evident throughout The Higher Buck, a stylish country inn backed by an experienced team and a kitchen that places importance on provenance, seasonality and flavour. The classics remain for good reason.

designed en-suite bedrooms, enjoy the hospitality for which The Higher Buck is known and, crucially, have that excellent kitchen downstairs. Clitheroe is minutes away, while some of Lancashire’s prettiest villages, excellent walking country and the landscapes surrounding the Forest of Bowland are all within easy reach. Michael’s son Harry has added another reason to linger. His Wild Buck café and deli, a short stroll away, is firmly established in the village, offering a refined breakfast and brunch-style menu alongside mouth watering sandwiches and daily seasonal bakes. Father and son have created two distinct businesses with a shared thread – good produce, genuine hospitality and an understanding that quality matters. From £180 including breakfast and dinner, crossing the Yorkshire-Lancashire border certainly has its rewards. n The Higher Buck The Square Waddington BB7 3HZ 01200 423226 higherbuck.com

SEAFOOD SUPPER

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CHAMPAGNE & OYSTER RECEPTION

COCKTAIL & SAUSAGE ROLL RECEPTION

Laurent Perrier NV Cuvee Cumbrae Oyster Pickled Grape and Mint -

SCALLOP, SEABASS & TUNA CEVICHE Pickles, Lime and Sauce Antiboise -

TWICE BAKED CRAB AND CHEDDAR SOUFFLÉ Crab Bisque -

CHALKSTREAM TROUT

Sea Asparagus Fritto, Confit Leeks, Truffle Risotto, Mushroom, Leek and Chive Velouté -

STICKY DATE CAKE

Toffee Apples and Ice Cream

Sloe Gin & English Apple Fizz Game Sausage Roll -

KENTUCKY FRIED PHEASANT Celeriac Apple Slaw, Spiced Wildflower Honey -

VENISON HAUNCH

Cherries, Dauphinoise Chips, Roast Beetroot, Horseradish, Crispy Cabbage, Pinenuts -

PLUM AND GINGER DUCK EGG BRÛLÉE Roasted Plums £49 per person

£49 per person

BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT THE FLEECE 152-154 Main Street Addingham Ilkley LS29 0LY

T: 01943 830397 E: thefleece@seafoodpubcompany.com W: the-fleece.com

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At the heart of the experience is a suite of ESSE cookstoves that Liz felt perfectly represented what she was trying to create at Byre: “The power limitations here led me to research wood-fired ovens and I became really excited about the flavours they could achieve. I reached out to ESSE and the response from the team was so open and welcoming.

FIRE & FLAVOUR Acclaimed chef Liz Cottam brings intimate, fire-led dining to rural North Yorkshire, celebrating seasonal produce, instinctive cooking and traditional ESSE cookstoves

“My style has always been instinct-led rather than rigidly recipe driven. I care deeply about helping people understand how to cook. The best cooking comes from learning to notice – heat, texture, smell, sound and timing. “Tools are central to that process. Wood-fired ovens demand attention and reward instinct. They slow you down, make you connect and ultimately make you a better cook.” Liz will be using ESSE’s Ironheart, Bakeheart and Lightheart, as well as an electric ESSE 1000, which combines electric efficiency with timeless style and performance.

enowned chef Liz Cottam has swapped the bright city lights of Leeds for the quiet, rural appeal of a dairy farm close to Bolton Abbey.

With ESSE’s rich heritage and Byre’s ethos, rooted in place, history and atmosphere, this northern collaboration is grounded in craftsmanship, authenticity and the value of doing things properly.

Liz’s immersive new restaurant Byre is set within atmospheric spaces of an old stone barn – an environment perfectly suited to thoughtful, grounded cooking. Liz explains: “Byre is not a traditional restaurant. It’s a place where people will experience food in several ways – intimate, longer format dining experiences with food cooked close to the table, fire-led lunches and suppers and small-group cooking lessons.”

“These stoves changed the way I cook,’ Liz adds. “You’re paying attention all the time – to the heat, the sound, the smell. It’s like having a conversation with the food.

TOOLS ARE CENTRAL TO THAT PROCESS. WOOD-FIRED OVENS DEMAND ATTENTION AND REWARD INSTINCT Open three days per week, Liz plans to keep numbers low, with seasonal ingredients taking centre stage. Byre will serve the same menu to all diners with dishes arriving as they’re ready. “Guests can ask questions while I cook,” adds Liz. “Or, they can just sit back and enjoy. It’s an informal, relaxed experience.”

The shift from Leeds to the fields and fells of rural Yorkshire might seem an unconventional move for a well-known chef patron, but it makes perfect sense to Liz: “So much of my food has been inspired by the dales and the moors. Being out here means I’m cooking in the place that gives me that inspiration.” The cooking capabilities of the ESSEs are complemented by an intensely local larder – fell water filtered through limestone, honey from on-site beehives, milk, cream and eggs from neighbouring farms, local game and fish supplied from regional producers. n

Reservations are now open via byre.kitchen and more information on wood-fired cookstoves and electric range cookers can be found at: esse.com.

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LIV E T HE DA LES

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STILL RAISING THE BAR As autumn arrives, The Rum Fox enters another exciting chapter, combining seasonal cooking, a brilliant team, special events and yet more awards

here is a particular kind of confidence that comes from knowing exactly what you are – and doing it exceptionally well. At The Rum Fox, that confidence continues to define everything from the kitchen to the welcome at the door. Chef-patron Bob Geldeard remains firmly on the pass, while partner Kiaja Monk leads front of house with the warmth, polish and attention to detail regulars have come to expect. Around them is a talented team who work hard to make every visit feel special, whether guests are dropping in for a relaxed lunch, settling in for Sunday dinner or celebrating something important. It is that consistency that has become such an important part of The Rum Fox story. The food is ambitious without losing sight of the pub at its heart, the service is polished without feeling formal and there is always the sense that the team genuinely wants people to enjoy being there. As autumn arrives, the kitchen has another opportunity to do what it does best and make

the most of the season. Expect menus to evolve as richer flavours begin to appear, with vegetables taking on a starring role rather than simply sitting at the side of the plate. Roots, brassicas, squash, mushrooms and the best of the local harvest will begin

EXPECT MENUS TO EVOLVE AS RICHER FLAVOURS BEGIN TO APPEAR, WITH VEGETABLES TAKING ON A STARRING ROLE RATHER THAN SIMPLY SITTING AT THE SIDE

to shape dishes, bringing the warmth and depth that suit this time of year. The game season also brings plenty for Bob and the kitchen team to work with. Alongside the core menus, specials will continue to change according to what arrives through the door, what is at its best that day and what sparks an idea in the kitchen. It means there is always the possibility of finding something completely new, even for those who visit regularly. That ever-changing element has become part of the appeal. Produce leads the way, rather than dishes being fixed for the sake of it, allowing the kitchen to respond to quality and seasonality. It keeps things interesting for the chefs and perhaps more importantly, gives diners another reason to keep coming back. There is plenty happening beyond the day-to-day menu too. October sees The Rum Fox continue its relationship with The Unruly Pig, currently ranked number two in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs. Following Bob and the team’s successful visit to Suffolk in July, the return collaboration at The Rum Fox is already sold out. It is another reflection of the reputation the pub has built and of the appetite for one-off events that bring together like-minded chefs and kitchens. For anyone disappointed to have missed

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out, joining The Skulk through The Rum Fox website is the best way to hear about future events. These special dinners have a habit of filling quickly, so those who enjoy something a little different would be wise to keep an eye on what comes next. There has been plenty to celebrate on the awards front too. Earlier this year The Rum Fox was named the Highest New Entry at number nine in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs, placing it firmly among the leading gastropubs in the country. It has since been confirmed as a finalist in the Great British Pub Awards 2026 in the Best Pub for Food category, with the winners announced in Leeds on 23rd September. Success in its category would also put the pub in contention for the ultimate Great British Pub of the Year accolade.

THE FESTIVE MENU IS CURRENTLY BEING WORKED ON AND WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM SEPTEMBER, BUT WITH KEY DATES DISAPPEARING EARLY, PLANNING AHEAD MAY BE SENSIBLE Attention is also turning to The Good Food Guide’s search for Britain’s 100 Best Pubs. Public nominations closed in August and the team will now be hoping that support from diners translates into another piece of national recognition. Given the pub’s growing reputation, it would certainly be another welcome addition to an increasingly impressive list of achievements. Yet while awards are always worth celebrating, the more meaningful measure of success is often found closer to home. Tables continue to fill, regulars return and celebrations become part of life at the pub. Private dining remains popular for intimate occasions, including small weddings, family gatherings and milestone celebrations, with bespoke menus and a more personal setting helping make those important moments memorable. Christmas is already beginning to appear on the horizon too, although nobody at The Rum Fox is rushing the year away. Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve are already sold out, while at the time of writing only a small number of tables remain for Christmas Eve. The festive menu is currently being worked on and will be available from September, but with key dates disappearing early, planning ahead may be sensible. If there is a message running through all of this, it is simply that The Rum Fox is

not standing still. Menus change, specials evolve, collaborations bring fresh ideas and recognition continues to grow, but the foundations remain reassuringly familiar. Bob on the pass, Kiaja out front, a talented team around them and a shared determination to get the details right. For a pub that has achieved so much in a relatively short time, perhaps that consistency is the most impressive thing of all. There is always something new to discover, but it still feels unmistakably like The Rum Fox. n The Rum Fox Sawley Road Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691 info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk

AUTUMN COLOURS – SEASONAL FLAVOURS Eight at Gazegill are celebrating nature’s kitchen with the arrival of their autumnal menus, writes Gail Bailey

s the seasons begin to change, Eight at Gazegill welcomes autumn with a menu that celebrates the very best of what the farm and surrounding countryside has to offer: “Expect dishes inspired by the harvest, featuring orchard apples, wild brambles, farm-reared Gazegill mutton and carefully sourced British venison,” says General Manager Kimberley Talbot. “Everything our talented chef Doug Crampton and his team create showcases the richness and depth of the season.” Eight at Gazegill’s menus are ‘farm-to-fork’ with every dish beginning just a few steps from the kitchen door: “Our menus are guided by the rhythms of the land and the seasons, changing regularly to reflect what is at its very best right now,” explains Kim. “We work closely with a small network of like-minded local producers who share our commitment to organic, ethical and sustainable farming, ensuring that every ingredient is chosen with care and purpose and that includes our rare-breed meats and seasonal vegetables, orchard fruit and herbs.” As the days shorten and temperatures begin

to drop the plates served in the restaurant show a celebration of the best of the season’s harvest: “Our dishes embrace rich root vegetables, wild game, sweet orchard fruits

EXPECT DISHES INSPIRED BY THE HARVEST, FEATURING ORCHARD APPLES, WILD BRAMBLES, FARM-REARED GAZEGILL MUTTON AND CAREFULLY SOURCED BRITISH VENISON and the distinctive flavours discovered through seasonal foraging,” adds Kim. “Enjoy our special autumn treats such as

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seasonal Parkin cake - perfect to enjoy with a coffee on the terrace enjoying the last of the seasonal sunshine!” Success at Eight at Gazegill has been bountiful over the last two years, with a host of prestigious awards and accolades celebrating the restaurant’s exceptional culinary offering, commitment to sustainability and unwavering dedication to the finest local and seasonal ingredients. The team has also made the venue available for a select number of weddings, which have proved to be a huge success. For larger celebrations, a beautiful marquee can accommodate up to 200 guests, while smaller parties can enjoy the exquisite octagonal restaurant at Eight at Gazegill, which seats up to 80 diners and can accommodate up to 120 guests for an evening reception. Whichever option you choose, the dedicated team will work with you to create and plan a truly unforgettable celebration, perfectly tailored to your special day.

“It has been lovely to welcome wedding parties this year,” says Kim. “Doug and the team created a wide choice of wonderful dishes for the wedding breakfasts and we worked closely with couples to draft the perfect menu. And as the day blends into night, guests were able to organise hog roasts, pizza vans or street food independently too – it was the perfect match! We’re looking forward to welcoming more wedding parties and creating menus and memorable dining experiences, while sharing all that our wonderful Eight at Gazegill has to offer.” With thoughts of Christmas not too far away Eight at Gazegill are now welcoming festive bookings and enquiries: “Whether guests are planning an intimate family

celebration, a festive lunch with friends or a memorable end-of-year gathering, our reservations team would be delighted to help,” says Kim. And with some mouthwatering dishes infused with all the tastes of the festive season it really is the perfect place to raise a glass and celebrate the magic of Christmas.

OUR MENUS ARE GUIDED BY THE RHYTHMS OF THE LAND AND THE SEASONS, CHANGING REGULARLY TO REFLECT WHAT IS AT ITS VERY BEST RIGHT NOW Since opening its doors in 2024 Eight at Gazegill has been constantly delighting customers with a dining experience that has a conscious obligation to nature. One customer recently said: “Every single dish

was a masterpiece. Their farm-and-fieldto-plate ethos truly shines through in the outstanding freshness and flavours. The service was absolutely flawless too!” Wonderful praise for a wonderful place. n

Eight at Gazegill Dancer Lane, Rimington Clitheroe BB7 4EE 01200 445519 (option 2) reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk eightatgazegill.co.uk

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CAFÉ DE COSTA RICA Wild Pen Coffee Roasters source their beans from Costa Rica in Central America where only the Arabica Bean is grown. Here they talk about the country and the process

osta Rica is a beautiful country. Due to the mountainous terrain the coffee cherries are hand-picked, so respect for the workers is very high as is the care for the rainforest itself and the wildlife.

COFFEE SEEDLING TO ROASTED COFFEE

Whilst visiting Costa Rica we were invited to stay on the farms and there we learnt first-hand about coffee production directly from the growers – we saw nursery planting, the picking of ripened cherries, beans being graded, processed and cupped.

WE ARE SOURCING COFFEES FROM 2 REGIONS:

Turrialba Volcano Region – coffee trees grow in rich soils and benefit from the winds prevailing from the Caribbean Sea. Tarrazú Valley Region – high up in the beautiful mountains of Los Santos, coffee trees are cooled by winds from the Pacific Ocean. These farms grow some of the most sought-after coffees, competing with the best in the world for quality and flavour. Both are Carbon Neutral and Rainforest Alliance Certified. n

Fresh roasted coffee Whole bean or Ground

Direct from the Roasters Barrowford

Order Online

Delivery or Pick-up at the roastery

www.wildpen.coffee Tom & Milly tom@wildpen.coffee

If you wish to buy our coffee or learn more visit: wildpen.coffee.

Wild Pen Coffee Roasters Café de Costa Rica

Single Origin - speciality coffee High-quality Coffee traceable to the farms of theTurrialba and Terrazú regions of Costa Rica 100% Arabica - harvested by hand

Microlot Entre Rios Anaerobic Natural Obatá

La Minita Tarrazú

Caturra and Sarchimore Turrialba

Microlot Combines the Marsellesa and natural Obatá Varietals

Caturra, Red and Yellow Catuai varietals Influences from Pacific Ocean winds

Traditional varietals Influences from the farm’s high elevation and Caribbean winds

wildpen.coffee

caffeinated

Wild Pen Coffee roasters ro

Wi asted i le ld Pend

Mountain Water D'caff Café de Mexico

“All of the Flavour, None of the caffeine”

wildpen.coffee

food&drink

FINDING ITS FEET

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autumn and towards Christmas, with festive lunches, parties, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve all on the horizon. The Farm Shop is now open Thursday to Sunday and its development remains an important part of creating something firmly connected to the local community. Outside, the space has really come into its own, with room for families to relax and a children’s playground, while inside there’s darts and pool for a little friendly competition.

welve weeks isn’t very long in the life of a new hospitality business, particularly in a part of the world where we are fortunate to have so many excellent places to eat. Yet at Bowland Forest Farm, those first few months have provided an opportunity to listen, learn and begin shaping a venue that has ambitions to become a genuine year-round destination. When we first featured the newly opened Bowland Forest Farm, there was a real sense of excitement about what was being created. That enthusiasm remains, but there is now an added confidence as the team discovers what customers want and where the venue can make its mark. Central to the next chapter is the kitchen, with new chefs bringing fresh ideas, creativity and a clear vision for the food. From Thursday 3rd September, the Forest Lounge will have a brand-new menu built around relaxed, informal dining. Think

good, uncomplicated food in comfortable surroundings, whether you are meeting friends for lunch or arriving fresh from a walk across the fells. Muddy boots remain very welcome and so do dogs. Alongside it comes an exciting new concept, The Bowland Grill, which will focus on great-quality grilled food served in the same relaxed spirit. The full menu will be revealed online from 1st September and it represents another significant step in establishing the venue’s food identity.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

BOWLAND FOREST LISTENS TO ITS CUSTOMERS AND CONSTANTLY INTRODUCES SOMETHING NEW Earlier in the day, breakfast is already proving popular. Served Thursday to Sunday from 9.30am until 11.30am, the Farmers Breakfast has quickly become a favourite, alongside dishes including baked eggs. Homebaked cakes and freshly made coffee provide another excuse to call in throughout the day. There’s plenty happening beyond the food too. Afternoon Tea is served on the first and third Thursday of each month, while live entertainment on Friday or Saturday evenings is becoming a weekly fixture. A growing programme of themed evenings and events will take the venue through

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Just 12 weeks after opening, Bowland Forest Farm is evolving quickly, with new menus, new ideas and even more reasons to visit, writes Tedd Walmsley

Perhaps most interesting is how Bowland Forest Farm is becoming more than somewhere simply to eat. Onsite accommodation is performing strongly, motorhomes and campervans are welcome and plans remain in place to expand the accommodation with new lodges during 2027. It is still early days, but that is part of the appeal. Bowland Forest Farm is finding its feet, listening to its customers and constantly introducing something new. In a competitive hospitality landscape, it is creating its own identity as a place to eat, drink, shop, stay and enjoy. n

B O WLAND F O REST F ARM Bowland Forest Farm Settle Road Bolton-by-Bowland BD23 4SN 01200 400545 bowlandforestfarm.com OPENING HOURS Thursday: 9.30am - 10.30pm Friday: 9.30am - 11.30pm Saturday: 9.30am - 11.30pm Sunday: 9.30am - 10.30pm Please visit the website, or call for food service hours.

THE GENTLE ART OF SELF DEFENCE Gracie Jiu Jitsu Ilkley welcomes people of all ages and abilities to build life-changing confidence, fitness and safety skills through the Brazilian martial art. Ben Hopkins meets lead trainer Francis Robinson and convert Martin Brown

s Francis welcomes me into the training centre in Ilkley he explains: “Gracie Jiu Jitsu is all about self-defence.” The venue opens into a wide-open space of padded floors and soft edges, lending an air of professionalism and safety for newcomers. “We teach students of all ages and abilities that even a smaller, weaker person can defend against a larger adversary using proper techniques rather than raw strength.”

Jiu-jitsu translates to ‘the gentle art,’ a philosophy rooted in yielding to and redirecting an opponent’s energy rather than meeting force with direct resistance. Originating from judo it was developed and refined by the Gracie family in 1920s Brazil. Instead of relying on punches and kicks, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu focuses on initial conflict prevention through language, eye contact and posture. Failing that, close-quarter control and joint-locks are used primarily to

neutralise threats from either standing or ground positions. Having recently gained the status of a Community Interest Company (CIC) both Francis and the club members are keen to utilise their new status to draw attention to these life skills. Through access to community funds the club hopes to connect with a broader diversity of people.

JIU-JITSU TRANSLATES TO ‘THE GENTLE ART,’ A PHILOSOPHY ROOTED IN YIELDING TO AND REDIRECTING AN OPPONENT’S ENERGY RATHER THAN MEETING FORCE WITH DIRECT RESISTANCE “We’d like to reach out to schools and other community groups to provide access to those who can’t currently afford to join the club, but who would ultimately benefit

sport

from our training to improve their own situations,” says Martin. These groups may include women’s refuge centres, youth groups and schools enabling young people to build confidence and broaden their horizons beyond the digital screen. Men, women and children of all ages and levels of fitness are welcome as are people from towns and regions beyond Ilkley.

“Our youngest group are the three to five-year-olds,” says Francis, a black belt who also works for the NHS, training staff in conflict prevention. “The youngest kids turn up with their parents, which in itself

becomes a fun activity for the family.” While the young ones develop their communication and athletic abilities, their parents are invited to follow suit and learn a technique or two for themselves. Each program is tailored to suit individual needs, starting with the Gracie Bullyproof program for kids aged five to 14. Like all Gracie techniques it’s a non-striking, self-defence approach that builds confidence and character development. Women Empowered teaches 20 self-defence techniques for women of all ages, while Gracie Combative takes people from 14 years old upwards. “Training for Jiu Jitsu can develop a mindset that helps in everyday life,” says Francis. “You’re presented with problems that you have to find immediate solutions for. This can overspill into your work and social life.” “It’s also a great de-stressor,” Martin adds. “When you go on to the mat, you switch off and forget the daily stresses of life.” People considering signing up needn’t be in peak physical condition or bursting with confidence. The whole point is to help each individual gain confidence, strength and agility one step at a time. Everyone has their own reason or motivation behind their first step into Jiu Jitsu. For Martin it was to accompany his son, a Muay Thai fighter then based in Australia who’d returned home during Covid back in 2020. Muay Thai is all about using elbows and knees to strike your opponent. An effective technique in attack, less so in defence. “He used Jiu Jitsu as a way to get out of situations where you’re held back or pinned to the ground.” It’s for this reason that Jiu Jitsu became the foundational martial art that built the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)

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in 1993, making Jiu Jitsu a mandatory core discipline for every mixed martial art fighter. For students at Gracie Jiu Jitsu Ilkley, it’s less about stadium glory in Vegas and more about learning new skills and meeting new people.

TRAINING FOR JIU JITSU CAN DEVELOP A MINDSET THAT HELPS IN EVERYDAY LIFE “We have regular social events throughout the year and host Jiu Jitsu games days and even kids’ parties at the club,” says Martin. At these events, the kids get to demonstrate their techniques, one by one, while the others “sit there like black belts in silent focus”. Many of the parents are impressed by the degree of focus amongst the youngsters. “Sometimes, the parents are amazed at the level of discipline. They say to the instructors, ‘I like that, I want that for my child.’ “At a recent party one of our five-year-olds demonstrated how to take down Luke, our six-foot-two instructor. A Jiu Jitsu version of David and Goliath if ever there was one, only this time with a gentler approach and a friendlier outcome.” n 07495 494979 evolutionjj@outlook.com evolutiongraciejiujitsu.com

A RACING LIFE At Greystoke, on the edge of the Cumbrian fells, racehorse trainer Nicky Richards is continuing a family tradition stretching back almost 60 years. Ben Hopkins visits the yard to discover a world of horses, friendship and racing

ntering the spacious kitchen of Nicky Richards’ country home the welcome is immediate and informal. “You found us easy enough, then?” he asks before putting the kettle on. In front of him the papers are open on the racing pages while on the wall framed pictures tell a story of great champions and memorable moments. Greystoke has been home for most of

Nicky’s life. His father, the celebrated National Hunt trainer Gordon W Richards, began as a jockey before a broken neck at Perth brought his riding career to an abrupt end. After establishing a riding school in Northumberland, Gordon moved the family to Greystoke in 1967. “I was ten or eleven,” Nicky remembers. “This place has been my home ever since.” As a boy, Nicky imagined becoming a

jockey himself before nature intervened. “I was too big. It wasn’t going to be. I won my first race at 15, but it only lasted a couple years.”

IN SOME CASES YOU CAN JOIN A SYNDICATE FOR AS LITTLE AS £10. IT MAY ONLY BUY YOU A HAIR ON A HORSE’S TAIL BUT AT LEAST YOU CAN SAY YOU’RE A PART OF IT Instead, he worked alongside his father and, following Gordon’s death 29 years ago, took over the licence and continued a remarkable family-racing story. His father trained more than 2,300 winners. Nicky has now passed the 1,000 mark himself. Looking ahead, his daughter and assistant trainer, Joey, is set to take up the role of

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changes through the decades: Nutrition, interval training, artificial surfaces are to name a few but what really fuels Nicky’s love for national hunt goes beyond technical advancements to the timeless value of friendships and relationships with the people involved – from stable hands to owners. When describing his relationship with horse owners his enthusiasm is almost contagious. “To start with you’re on a business footing, then you get a trust, then you become friends,” he says, warming to his theme. “And that’s a brilliant thing – they’re not just owners, they’re friends. You take victory together, you win together, you lose together, the emotions are up and down. You learn to win but you’ve got to learn to lose, take positives out of losing and move on.”

head trainer when the time is right. With that kind of pedigree, I half expect the world of racehorse ownership to be an exclusive one. Nicky is quick to dispel the idea. “Some people think it’s all a bit secret but it’s not secret at all. It’s an approachable world.” There are around 60 to 70 horses at Greystoke, with approximately 50 racing during a typical year. Nicky is in no hurry to send them out before they are ready and his training methods remain deliberately traditional – grass, hills, patience and an instinctive understanding of the horse. The team of stable hands, staff and riders come from all corners of the British Isles and beyond. “They’re family,” says Nicky. “Everyone is welcome to come in here, put the kettle on and make themselves at home. I think most trainers have that approach. If not, you’re in the wrong business.” The sport of horse racing has seen many

One of the biggest changes in horse ownership over the past ten years has been the growth of racing syndicates. Rather than needing the resources to own a racehorse outright, an increasing number of people can now buy a share in one and experience many of the same thrills. “Syndicates mean a working man can have part ownership of a horse,” Nicky explains. “It’s a way into the sport, a way to get a feel for it. You can have as much fun as an owner.”

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He points to Fine Claret syndicate, which has interests in several horses. “In some cases you can join a syndicate for as little as £10. It may only buy you a hair on a horse’s tail but at least you can say you’re a part of it.” The rewards of an owner’s reaction to success, be they part owners from a syndicate or an individual owner, clearly make all the decades of hard work and commitment worth it, not just for Nicky but for all the riders, stable hands and staff involved.

THIS IS A WONDERFUL SPORT. IT’S FOR EVERYBODY. OWNERSHIP AS WELL. THE SPORT IS FOR EVERYBODY Nicky highlights an owner from Carlisle whose horse had just won for the first time. While everyone else headed towards the winner’s enclosure, he remained alone in the grandstand, tears running down his face. “His wife said, ‘Just leave him there, Nicky.’ He was just soaking it up. It was very personal for him. Brilliant, just brilliant.” Other winners, Nicky laughs, jump up and down and cannot get the champagne open quickly enough. “This is a wonderful sport,” he says. “It’s for everybody. Ownership as well. The sport is for everybody.” Back in the kitchen, with racing photographs on the walls and another working morning unfolding outside, you rather believe him. n

nickyrichardsracing.com

The other 12 images to feature in the 2027 calendar are: Andrew Fletcher – Dalesbred Sheep Paul Clark – Winterings above Gunnerside Phil Martin – Lone Tree Above Stainforth Paul Whitton – Ribblehead Viaduct Andrew Fletcher – Gunnerside Bottoms Hay Meadows Tom Kolour – Buttercup Bridge Michelle Bray – Curlew on the Moors Ken Readshaw – Orange Tip and Milkmaid Julie Forrest – Autumn colour Aysgarth Jackie Slater – Pen-y-ghent Sam Mashford – Winter Sentinel Rich Stott – Cow’us overlooking Swaledale A total of 35 shortlisted finalists had their work featured in a summer exhibition at The Garden Rooms at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn over the summer. Photography: Phil Martin - Reflecting

STUNNING IMAGES INSPIRED BY NATURE Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust and The Garden Rooms at Tennants have announced the winner of their prestigious photography competition – celebrating the landscape, people and wildlife of the Yorkshire Dales

support the charity’s work to care for the Dales for future generations.

The overall winner will feature in the 2027 Yorkshire Dales Calendar. Proceeds from sales of the calendar fund YDMT nature recovery projects across the Dales.

The overall winning entry received a prize of a £100 photographic voucher and a £100 Fodder voucher. Lindsay Wallace, Development Director at YDMT, said: “Once again, we’ve been absolutely stunned by the quality of the entries for this year’s competition – they really capture the changing character of the Dales through the seasons. We hope that this gallery of wonderful images inspires people to connect with nature and help us raise awareness of why these landscapes need looking after.” Alison Tennant, Director at The Garden Rooms, added: “The Yorkshire Dales is rich with beautiful landscapes and teeming with wildlife and we are always astounded by the incredible photographs that capture the spirit of the area. There are so many talented amateur photographers in the region and it is a pleasure to showcase their work to our visitors.” n

he beautiful scenery, wildlife and character of the Yorkshire Dales are being celebrated in a calendar after a competition open to photographers of all levels.

WE HOPE THAT THIS GALLERY OF WONDERFUL IMAGES INSPIRES PEOPLE TO CONNECT WITH NATURE AND HELP US RAISE AWARENESS OF WHY THESE LANDSCAPES NEED LOOKING AFTER

The competition is helping Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust highlight why this special place deserves protection and will help

This year’s overall winner was Phil Martin, who captured a beautiful shot of a red squirrel reflected in a pond at Snaizeholme.

The Yorkshire Dales 2027 Calendar will be available shortly from the YDMT website: ydmt.org/shop

Photography: Tom Kolour - Buttercup Bridge

Photography: Michelle Bray - Curlew on the Moors

Photography: Ken Readshaw - Orange Tip and Milkmaid

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Photography: Paul Clark - Winterings above Gunnerside

Photography: Rich Stott - Cow’us overlooking Swaledale

Photography: Jackie Slater - Pen-y-ghent (Channeling its inner volcano)

Photography: Andrew Fletcher - Dalesbred Sheep

Photography: Phil Martin - Lone Tree above Stainforth

Photography: Sam Mashford - Winter Sentinel

Photography: Paul Whitton - Ribblehead Viaduct

Photography: Andrew Fletcher - Gunnerside Bottoms Hay Meadows

Photography: Julie Forrest - Autumn colour Aysgarth

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SEEING THE SEASONS From a high-flying career in international fashion, a worldwide watershed moment led artist Graeme Black to a new home, career and vocation. Kate Bowyer discovers the creative hub he and partner Jonathan Reed are carefully curating in a quiet corner of the Dales

thought I knew Wensleydale well, but it takes only a few miles beyond Hawes to feel as if I’m entering a whole new world. Roads narrow, dry stone walls weave across the hillsides and the glisten of Semerwater appears between the folds of the quiet Raydale valley. Tucked into this remarkable setting is Thorns Gallery, a beautifully restored collection of former stone barns that is becoming one of Yorkshire’s most exciting new creative spaces. Artist Graeme Black welcomes me, surrounded by the landscape that transformed not only where he lives, but how he chooses to spend his life. “It was one of those epiphany moments,”

explains Graeme, who grew up on the rocky east coast of Scotland: “Spending years travelling the world, I realised I was never seeing the seasons.” It’s a striking admission from someone whose previous career placed him firmly at the pinnacle of international fashion. After studying at Edinburgh College of Art, Graeme worked alongside some of the industry’s most celebrated names, including sixteen years in Italy with Giorgio Armani and Salvatore Ferragamo, before moving to Hugo Boss in Germany. With Graeme Creative Director of a luxury cashmere brand in China and partner Jonathan Reed leading a London practice

specialising in interiors and architecture for clients across the globe, simply being in the same place at the same time required meticulously planned diaries. “It was exciting,” Graeme reflects, “But constant travelling, in Beijing for two weeks every month for six years. When Covid halted us all, it made me stop and think. We all make sacrifices for our careers, but I realised I wanted to be present, enjoying where I was, rather than chasing departure boards.” For Jonathan, who grew up in North Yorkshire, the answer was closer to home – and an area they already loved as a weekend bolthole whenever possible. Together they began searching for somewhere to live, with character, outbuildings, land and enough potential to create something lasting. After an extensive search, they found an eighteenth-century farmhouse looking down to Semerwater, the second largest natural lake in North Yorkshire. “It wasn’t just about renovating a house,” Graeme explains as we wander between

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beautifully rebuilt stone walls and wildflower meadows alive with late summer colour. “It was about creating a way of living.” Over the next two years, they painstakingly restored the house in partnership, respecting its architectural heritage while creating a calm, contemporary home filled with craftsmanship, ceramics and art. Outside, the couple replanted the surrounding land, creating vegetable gardens and wildflower meadows which sit comfortably in the rugged landscape. We walk across to two former rundown cow barns, which became the next step in their journey. “From the beginning,” says Graeme, “We wanted this to be a hub that celebrates creativity. Not just somewhere to hang pictures on walls, but somewhere artists could spend time, respond to this landscape and create new work.”

IT WAS ONE OF THOSE EPIPHANY MOMENTS. SPENDING YEARS TRAVELLING THE WORLD, I REALISED I WAS NEVER SEEING THE SEASONS That vision became Thorns Gallery. Opened in summer 2025, it is run as somewhere far more immersive than a traditional commercial gallery. Alongside exhibiting work, it welcomes artists to stay in the valley, work from Graeme’s own studio, explore the surrounding landscape before creating new collections inspired by their time here – and exhibit in situ. First visitors and exhibitors included sculptor Simon Gaiger, potter Janet Leach and contemporary British artist Jake Attree. Having evolved as an artist since leaving the fashion world, Graeme has also exhibited his own large-scale, tactile canvases, capturing the texture and life-force of the magnificent trees that line the valley and further afield in the hardy eucalyptuses of South Africa’s Karoo desert. The nature-rich philosophy comes beautifully to life in the gallery’s September exhibition, Wake This Land, curated by Jacqueline Moore, Director of Make Hauser & Wirth Somerset. Bringing together six contemporary artists and makers, it explores the relationship between landscape, craft and material, with many of the works beginning quite literally in the fields and woodlands surrounding the gallery. I walk among fallen trees captured in sculpture, lime kiln dust transformed into

glowing canvas pigments and sheep’s wool gathered from hedgerows and barbed wire, woven into intricate textile pieces. It’s the perfect exhibition for this remarkable setting. “Being here seems to help artists slow down and immerse themselves in the landscape,” nods Graeme, “Finding inspiration in things most of us simply walk past.” Visitors are also encouraged to slow down and just enjoy the quietly welcoming atmosphere. With exhibition viewing days every Friday, artists are often on hand and always on the opening Saturday, enabling natural conversations between visitors, artists and makers. As we leave the gallery for a “surprise”, Graeme confirms this grew out of that ethos: “We love introducing people to the beautiful and vibrant hidden Dales. We realised often they were travelling quite a long way – Leeds, York, or further afield and thought – wouldn’t it be lovely if they could make a whole day, or stay, of it?”

That thought and my delicious surprise, became Bosc Kitchen in nearby Hawes. Opened this summer with friends Jules and Dave Colley, the café and restaurant has transformed a former electrical shop into a warm, contemporary space. Designed by Jonathan, the partnership draws on everyone’s different talents. Graeme created the artwork and branding, Jules brings years of baking and cooking experience, Dave heads hospitality and everyone threw themselves into everything from rubble clearing and painting to barista training and gaining a drinks licence. “We felt we should understand every part of the business,” Graeme says. “Otherwise, how can we share it as ours? It’s also the climate – not all our builders were enthusiastic about working in a shell during a Yorkshire winter!” Named, like Thorns, after nature (“Bosc” is Old Norse for forest), I’m treated to a menu of thoughtfully sourced local ingredients,

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simple seasonal dishes, excellent coffee, carefully chosen wines and warm Yorkshire hospitality. Upstairs, two stylish apartments offer visitors another reason to linger a little longer and explore the Dales.

FOR VISITORS DISCOVERING THORNS GALLERY FOR THE FIRST TIME, NESTLED AMONG THE HILLS, IT FEELS RATHER LIKE STUMBLING ACROSS A HIDDEN SECRET – AND ONE WELL WORTH THE JOURNEY As I reluctantly begin the drive home, I take Graeme’s inspiration and open my eyes to the seasons, the first rich hints of autumn beginning to colour the meadow grasses and weathered stone walls. For visitors discovering Thorns Gallery for the first time, nestled among the hills, it feels rather like stumbling across a hidden secret – and one well worth the journey. n Thorns Gallery presents Wake This Land from 5th September to 18th October, opening Fridays from 10am-5pm. Booking is recommended, although drop-in visitors are welcome during exhibition opening hours. Bosc Kitchen is open Thursday to Saturday from 11am-3pm a short drive away in Hawes.

graemeblack.com thorns.gallery/visit-us Bosc.kitchen @thorns.gallery

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UNMISSABLE LINE UP AT LITERATURE FESTIVAL Andrew Davies, Dame Margaret Hodge, Si King, Jacqueline Wilson and Judy Murray will be some of the top attractions at this year’s Ilkley Literature Festival

he north’s longest-running literary festival has announced its 2026 line-up. A host of household names including politicians, national treasures, journalists, novelists, poets, historians, comedians and academics will head to Ilkley across 17 packed days from Friday 2nd to Sunday 18th October. Andrew Davies, the undisputed maestro of literary adaptations (House of Cards, Pride & Prejudice, Bleak House and Bridget Jones), opens the festival, having finally turned his razor sharp pen on the most challenging subject of all – himself, with his memoir, An Unsuitable Boy. The opening weekend continues with Labour Peer, Dame Margaret Hodge, talking about her five decades in politics in her memoir Battleaxe – and Zahra Joya, the groundbreaking Afghan journalist, telling the story of her fight for women’s rights in The Vanishing Girl of Kabul. Actress Rachael Stirling will be talking about her exceptional mother, Diana Rigg – icon of stage and screen and the subject of a new memoir, in which Rachael shares the woman she knew – gloriously naughty, deeply loving and taking no prisoners. And swimmer Mark Foster, five-time Olympian, six-time World Champion and eight-time World Record holder, will be in Ilkley to discuss his inspiring and moving memoir, My Double Life.

Poetry lovers can spend an evening with the poet laureate, Simon Armitage. Poet, broadcaster, entertainer and national treasure Pam Ayres will also be at the festival, talking about her latest book, Doggedly Onward: A Life in Poems, which brings together some of her best-known poems from the last fifty years.

THE FESTIVAL HAS BEEN ENCOURAGING CURIOSITY, OPEN DIALOGUES AND A SHARED LOVE OF WORDS FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY Other well known names include Kate Atkinson, returning to her native Yorkshire with her new book Our Noble Selves, set in post-war Britain. Tennis player, national coach, mother to two champions and former Strictly contestant Judy Murray, will be talking about her crime novel, Game, Set & Murder. Hairy Biker Si King will be discussing his first solo cookbook, Proper Home Cooking, since the death of his great friend Dave Myers. Gyles Brandreth will be joined by physiotherapist Finola Burrell to discuss the secrets for a long and healthy life. Younger members of the family are also in for a treat, with Dame Jacqueline Wilson introducing her brand new book, Esme Pepper and talking about her career, writing more than 120 books for children.

Themes explored through this year’s programme include investigative journalism, writers on writing, the impact of technology on human behaviour and biology, nature and wildlife. To celebrate the National Year of Reading there are also a series of book club-style events. Erica Morris, Chief Executive of Word Up North, the producer of Ilkley Literature Festival, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming some of today’s most exceptional writers, thinkers and entertainers to Yorkshire this autumn. The festival has been encouraging curiosity, open dialogues and a shared love of words for over half a century.” n

To view the full programme and book tickets visit the website.

ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk

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property care for the landscape and invest in businesses and infrastructure across the Dales. One of the most significant changes is the formal recognition of Rural Estate Plans as a material consideration in planning decisions. The new approach is designed to enable estates to work with the National Park Authority to look at the bigger picture, rather than considering individual planning applications in isolation. A Rural Estate Plan could, for example, help an estate set out a long-term vision for its land and buildings, including opportunities for local housing, employment, tourism, the reuse of historic or redundant buildings and improvements to infrastructure.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE What could the new Yorkshire Dales Local Plan mean for rural communities? Sally Ormiston, a director at Rural Solutions, explains planning applications, helping to balance the need for homes, businesses, farming, tourism and community facilities with the protection of the Dales’ landscapes, heritage and environment. The latest plan takes a more strategic approach to the future of rural estates in supporting thriving rural communities.

What is the Yorkshire Dales Local Plan?

It sets out how land and development should be managed across the National Park. It provides a framework for decisions on

Protection and progress

The new policy does not mean planning will suddenly become easy – and development in the Dales will still be tightly controlled. The Yorkshire Dales faces some significant challenges, from changing agricultural policy and the need for affordable homes to ensuring tourism benefits are spread more widely across the National Park. Any proposals will need to demonstrate that they conserve and enhance the National Park while delivering benefits for local communities.

The Yorkshire Dales community

Planning ahead is key for estate owners. For the people who live and work in the Dales, the hope is that this more strategic approach will help ensure that change works not just for individual estates, but for the communities and landscape that make the Yorkshire Dales such a special place. Rural Solutions was involved in helping shape the policy during its development and welcomes the opportunity for more open, strategic conversations between estates and planning authorities about the future of the Dales. n

Photography: Alamy stock image

he Yorkshire Dales is a landscape shaped by generations of farmers and landowners carving out a living from the land. Now, the adoption of the new Yorkshire Dales Local Plan could help rural estates take a more strategic approach to managing their land and buildings – with potential benefits for the wider communities that depend on them.

THE NEW POLICY DOES NOT MEAN PLANNING WILL SUDDENLY BECOME EASY – AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE DALES WILL STILL BE TIGHTLY CONTROLLED

Why does it matter?

Around 35 per cent of the Yorkshire Dales is managed by privately owned estates, but they are much more than landowners. They provide homes, support local employment,

Rural Solutions 01756 797501 info@ruralsolutions.co.uk ruralsolutions.co.uk

A different view Rural Solutions have been helping people to ‘Live the Dales’ for over 20 years. Whilst our reach is national, our roots are firmly in the Dales. From our Skipton office, we offer consultancy, planning, architecture, and landscape services for those looking to develop land and property across North Yorkshire. Whether creating or remodelling individual country homes, delivering sensitive small scale housing schemes, diversifying a farm or estate, establishing new leisure or commercial enterprises, regenerating natural landscapes, or entering new nature markets, our team has the expertise to help. We specialise in sensitive development in high-value landscapes, the imaginative reuse of heritage buildings, and in planning and design for all types of rural development and placemaking. If you are considering development in the Yorkshire Dales, call us on 01756 797501 or email us at info@ruralsolutions.co.uk. We’d be delighted to have a chat.

Consulting • Planning • Architecture • Landscape ruralsolutions.co.uk

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mydales

MY DALES… As Ilkley’s annual literature festival approaches we speak to Erica Morris who leads the team which produces the event

rica Morris is the Chief Executive of Word Up North, a literature development organisation with a mission to raise up voices, stories and writers in the north of England. Word Up North evolved from the roots of the Ilkley Literature Festival which has now been running in the West Yorkshire spa town for more than 50 years. This year’s Ilkley Literature Festival takes place from Friday 2nd – Sunday 18th October with more than 100 events featuring some of the best authors, poets, journalists and thinkers at work today. Where is home? I grew up in Leeds and now live in North Yorkshire.

How did you become involved with Ilkley Literature Festival? How important is the festival to the town? I’ve worked in the arts and heritage sectors for over twenty years. My involvement with Ilkley Literature Festival started with a short-term contract and ten years later I’m still here. Now I lead the Word Up North team who produce the annual festival. The festival is important as a reflection of West Yorkshire and its people – forward looking, interested in ideas and curious about lives and experiences beyond their own. Each October it attracts hundreds of writers and thousands of audience members to Ilkley creating a real buzz in the streets. We’re very lucky in that the festival is

What do you most like about Ilkley, the Dales and the surrounding area? Leaving town and in a few short minutes being immersed in nature and surrounded by big open spaces. What’s your favourite walk or view? My favourite view is from the Dew Stone above Riddlesden at sunset. The Dew Stone is one of six ‘Stanza Stones’ which form a 50-mile trail from Marsden to Ilkley. The trail was created in 2012 by (now) Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and the Ilkley Literature Festival. The stones, each bearing a carved poem, are set in the Pennine landscape for walkers to discover.

Photography: Rich Bunce

generously supported by local businesses. Thanks to a scheme run by the Ilkley BID, festival goers can show their ticket to get discounts and offers at a range of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops across the town.

Where do you most like to eat locally? The Ilkley Tap serves Italian-inspired small plates made with delicious high-quality ingredients. It’s a great place for a team lunch as our office dogs can come too! What’s your favourite time of year in the Dales and in Ilkley? Autumn. Wharfedale looks stunning when the leaves turn russet and gold and a mist rises from the river. Which Yorkshire writers, artists or sportspeople do you admire most? Writers Kate Atkinson, Alan Bennett, Sally Wainwright and Tony Harrison have all shaped my love of literature in some way.

Photography: Rich Bunce

Favourite Sunday roast? Back in the day, my grandma’s. More recently, at the Abbey Inn at Byland Abbey. Five people you’d invite to a Yorkshire dinner party – and why? Assuming the guests can be living or dead: Diana Rigg, Richard III, Amy Johnston, Sayeeda Warsi and Brian Blessed. Why? The stories you’d hear! That’s if anyone except Brian Blessed could get a word in. Your favourite inspiring quote or advice? More instructive than inspiring: “Words are the clothes thoughts wear.” – Samuel Beckett. n

PROPER

MEMORIES

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