WHAT’S IN A NAME? WHY WHARFEDALE VILLAGE CHANGED IDENTITY
HEART OF THE COMMUNITY SHOP RUN BY LOCAL PEOPLE
Visit our mill. It’s much more than just a kitchen showroom. It’s full of stuff, full of ideas and inspiration. It’s our home six days a week.
Open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. Saturdays, 10am-3pm.
Unit 6 Eastburn Mills Main Road, Keighley, BD20 7SJ T: 01535 656297 E: mail@eastburn.co.uk
10
‘BAREFOOT SHEPHERDESS’ CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH NATURE
Born and bred into a hill-farming family, Alison O’Neill shares her love of caring for nature and animals.
Clapham Village Store is more than just a shop - it’s the community-run beating heart of a close-knit village.
66 HOW A HYDRO CHANGED A VILLAGE NAME
Why did a Yorkshire settlement change its name to the Scottish-sounding Ben Rhydding? Local historian Mike Dixon explains.
72 THE ‘TERRIBLE KNITTERS’ OF DENT
The former mill telling an intriguing story of the past and keeping traditional skills alivewhile also looking to the future.
84 THE VANISHING CURLEW
With declining numbers threatening its survival, what does the future hold for a unique Dales resident?
Photography: John Dawson
LIVE MAGAZINES
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Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Lucy Bail, Victoria Benn, Kate Bowyer, Mark Dixon, Mike Dixon, Katie Hammond, Rebecca Hay, Ben Hopkins, Joe Varley, Andrew Vaux, Alan Veale, Jan Woolley and Tedd Walmsley
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Editor
Is there a better time of year than spring? The nights are getting lighter, the days are becoming warmer and new life is appearing everywhere.
This season of hope, optimism and renewal is reflected in our latest edition of Live The Dales - not least in our interview with Dales shepherdess Alison O’Neill.
Alison has devoted the past 25 years to building a farm on 37 acres of hillside, working in harmony with nature. She cares for her sheep in an idyllic setting and welcomes visitors to the farm so that they can share the peace and closeness to the living world that she enjoys.
While newborn lambs are the epitome of spring an equally iconic image is that of newly-hatched chicks. Worryingly these days many types of birds are under threat as their numbers decline - and one case in point is that of the curlew.
In the last 25 years the UK has lost nearly half of its breeding curlew – with Wales, Northern Ireland and southern lowland England now having almost none left at all.
But in the Dales at least there is reason for optimism as local people work together to help protect these threatened birds. The Clapham Sustainability Group formed their own ‘Curlew Cluster’ in 2022, following meetings between farmers, landowners and the RSPB. Thanks to a grant from Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust they provide a nest protection payment for farmers to leave an acre uncut around nests when due to be cut for silage. The cluster has increased every year and there are now 15 farms and 20 volunteers involved all doing their bit to help ensure the survival of curlew in this region.
That strong sense of community can be seen again and again in this part of the country where people have a commitment to working together for the common good.
A microcosm of that sentiment is Clapham Village Store which is run by locals and supported by more than 40 volunteers, many of whom have been helping out since the shop opened ten years ago. We talk to them about what makes their store so special.
Another successful community endeavour is Farfield Mill at Sedbergh - once a busy working mill but now a thriving heritage, workshops and exhibition centre dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive. Owned and run by a charitable community benefit society the mill aims to give an understanding of the history and significance of the local wool industry. It also provides a platform for artists and craftspeople.
There’s so much good work going on in our Dales communities there really is a lot to be cheerful about.
Annette McIntyre Editor
However crowded our country sometimes feels, we in the Dales nurture a secret – a few paces in the right direction and you step straight into nature, wildness and peace. Just a few miles east of where the M6 follows Roman footsteps up through Tebay Gorge, in the lee of the smoothly rounded Howgill fells, I could be in another world, as quiet and undisturbed as if I’d been cast back to the times of those Roman Legionaries.
It’s a world that, 25 years ago, called Alison O’Neill back to her farming roots and one where people now seek her to share a slice of the unique peace and rhythm with nature she’s created on her 37 acres of hillside.
I GENUINELY HAD VISIONS OF A LITTLE FARMHOUSE IN A SMALL PLOT OF LAND ON A HILL
Arriving at Shacklabank Farm, near Sedbergh, on a bright spring day, I find Alison and a circling collie checking her flock of rough fell sheep, an idyllically traditional scene among green fields, gorseclad fell-sides and circling buzzards.
Alison laughs: “It’s not always like this! But every season, every kind of nature, brings its own rewards. Even when I left, here was home. I’ve been called many things, but I think my proudest is ‘Daughter of the Dales’.”
Born and bred into a hill-farming family, Alison learned from her father- whom, now 94, she now looks after in turn. “Like my brother and sister, I had a yearning to go out into the world, but by my late twenties I couldn’t ignore the growing pull back to the Dales. Any jobs I’d had just didn’t have the meaning that caring for nature, animals and the land does.
THE ‘BAREFOOT SHEPHERDESS’ CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH NATURE
A deep love for the Dales drew Alison O’Neill
back
to the area of her childhood where she created her own idyllic farm. Kate Bowyer finds out more
“I genuinely had visions of a little farmhouse in a small plot of land on a hill. I wanted to breed sheep, to hang my washing out in the wind, to follow the seasons, to be part of a community, to follow my childhood dreams. Yes, I admit it, I’m a romantic!”
As with most of us, realities had to be faced. With no ‘silver spoon’, or farm to inherit, Alison was able to rent Shacklabank from the local church, which she still does today. Her first sheep arrived and not long after, newborn daughter, Scarlett. Newly single and already distinct from many of the surrounding households, Alison’s individuality continued to reveal itself.
“You can’t plant crops on these slopes,” she points out as she strides and I pant my way up the rough ground (Shacklabank, fittingly, means ‘Steep Hill’). “Breeding sheep for the table supports most small farms around here and the British food industry. It’s an important cycle and these sheep have the best outdoor life possible, I just found it increasingly hard taking these wonderful creatures to slaughter. I’d also started looking at the balance of farming, nature and wildlife in a different way.”
Instead of fighting to conquer the elements, Alison had begun working in harmony with nature, allowing a stubbornly boggy field to revert to ‘wet pasture’, leaving trees to grow, clearing woodland scrub to enable ancient bluebells to surface once more. Nature reclamation, rewilding and creating linking pathways for wildlife are increasingly important strategies, including the embryonic Penrith to Kendal Arc Landscape Recovery Project just the other side of the M6, but in her “little nature reserve on a hill farm”, Alison was doing this by instinct two decades ago. And people were beginning to notice.
“I’ve always been a devoted hillwalker and I’d started guiding a few people with me,”
explains Alison. “I realised from their comments that for many of them, they loved being welcomed to the farm, meeting the sheep, learning about the wool processes and seeing what was going on across the farm, equally as much as getting up on the fells. Slowly, the pieces were coming together, really opening up the farm to wider experiences and changing the flock from meat to fibre.”
For over a decade, Alison’s flock has been farmed purely for wool, which is made into 100 per cent natural clothing and traditional products, including dog leads, horse halters and rugs. It’s also enabled her to recognise her sheep “family” (all named) have as distinct personalities as ours. “A lot of people cuddling lambs on TikTok don’t realise just a few months later they’ll likely be going for meat,” she says, wryly. “Our lambs are born and live out their natural lives here. When people meet them, they soon find they’re meeting real characters!”
OUR LAMBS ARE BORN AND LIVE OUT THEIR NATURAL LIVES HERE. WHEN PEOPLE MEET THEM THEY SOON FIND THEY’RE MEETING REAL CHARACTERS
Listening to her visitors’ responses, Alison continued to develop what the farm could offer in harmony with nature, from farm experiences and visiting the sheep, to wildlife and birdwatching, to simply finding peace in nature.
We’ve reached the top of her land, where the hills reach towards the fells above, while stone walls and a glint of river curve into the rolling woods and fields below. “I love this view,” she says, simply. “Even more because Scarlett always called the Howgills the ‘Faraway Fells’. So now when I’m guiding up
here, when we sit and meditate, or just listen to the skylarks, lapwings and curlews that have returned, that’s what I call them, too.”
While Alison’s guided farm visits remain popular, from individuals and families to organised clubs and societies, they’re now complemented by evolving awareness and wellness visits.
“I’m a shepherdess, I look after the land and my animals. Doing that in rhythm with the seasons fits with what people are increasingly looking for, whether that’s meditating in the bluebell woods, walking barefoot on the fell, paddling in the river, sketching in the shepherd’s hut, or doing yoga amongst the sheep in the hay meadows. It’s as bespoke as people want, they can contact me and we’ll put together the visit they want. Whatever it is, it’s a privilege to see visitors leave a mixture of lightened, calmed and re-energised, some vital connection to the rhythm of the planet restored.”
ALISON CONTINUED TO DEVELOP WHAT THE FARM COULD OFFER, FROM FARM EXPERIENCES AND VISITING THE SHEEP, TO WILDLIFE AND BIRDWATCHING, TO SIMPLY FINDING PEACE IN NATURE
I can vouch that they’ll also go away well-fed. Returning to the warm farmhouse kitchen, I’m enjoying Alison’s famous hospitality and home-baked cakes. And if a morning’s not long enough, why not simply stay? Alison hosts week-long women’s holidays, based at her neighbour’s A Corner Of Eden farm cottages, with local produce cooked to perfection by your personal chef.
“The holidays are women-only because so many ladies asked for that,” she explains, “A relaxed, safe, welcoming environment, whatever and wherever they’ve come from, in a group or arriving solo. Here they can be open and share, be quiet and reflect, relax and enjoy. We ‘meet up’ on Zoom beforehand, so there’s no strangers and everything, from the food to the itinerary, is geared to everyone’s requests.”
Returning to my car with a chunk of Alison’s tea loaf in my pocket (“I’m a giver!”), it strikes me – the quiet of the Dales, the occasional bleat of a sheep, the grass crackling underfoot, the curlew crying overhead. Who could want much more? n
SMALL SPACES BIG IDEAS
Creating storage for smaller areas in the home needs an innovative designer who is able to maximise all the space available
With space and time at a premium, making our homes practical, multifunctioning and yet still stylish and relaxing can be a challenge.
But not for brilliant designers, who can be relied on to think up ingenious solutions for the most space-starved rooms and unused, awkward corners of the home reinventing them into functional, beautiful spaces.
Behind every clever remodelling idea there is a talented designer who must carefully consider every available centimetre and conjure solutions that maximise the floor and wall space without sacrificing style.
We’re used to rooms doubling up, like the eponymous kitchen diner or open plan studio, but furniture designer and owner of The Secret Drawer, Richard Mason, took the idea to the next level when he was tasked with designing a multi-zone space from a thin, narrow end of an existing boot room.
He says: “Our client wanted additional storage for their sport-loving family plus a utility and a drinks fridge. The design fulfilled everything on their wish list and more, as we utilised the full wall space and the awkward sloping roof with a wine store at the top. We added ladders, that roll away into a corner when unused, so that the full height of the bespoke cabinetry can be reached with ease.
“We added bespoke cabinetry that included a dog sink, storage, upholstered seating and extra coat hooks, all with beautiful panelling. This project shows that even the narrowest of unused spaces can be transformed with practical, proportioned design, bespoke, hand-crafted cabinetry and precise installation.”
Even in a larger home, every inch counts and taking advantage of architectural quirks can add character and useability to a space –like this gorgeous window seat, which doubles up as storage while acting as a design link between the kitchen and dining areas of this Georgian home.
This bespoke shelving, designed and built in around the doorway between the dining room and conservatory, elevates and personalises the ultimate in unused space, creating a beautiful library with shelves and storage for the customer to display belongings and books.
SOLUTIONS THAT MAXIMISE SPACE WITHOUT SACRIFICING STYLE
The odd configuration of this kitchen required Richard to embrace the space and use the end of the kitchen island to create booth seating along with custom-made chairs and pedestal table to optimise the available floor space.
The key to designing smaller spaces is to eliminate awkward gaps. Furniture tends to float more in a small room, and it can be difficult to find items that are in proportion to the space. Think about using bespoke, built-in furniture that fits properly into nooks and crannies and that double up as storage. A small room does require more thought than bigger rooms, but with the help of a designer that understands your needs and style, you’ll find the right solution for any space in your home. n
secret-drawer.co.uk
With increasing focus on health and well-being, dedicated wellness spaces are becoming a staple in home design.
The bathroom is one of the most frequently used spaces in the home, a place where you begin and end your day. It needs to be highly functional and practical as it tends to be one of the smaller spaces in the home, yet it should serve way beyond functionality, to be a relaxing sanctuary.
Getting the balance right is a one of the joys of designing says Richard Mason, Owner and Furniture Designer at The Secret Drawer. “I like to consider the space from floor to ceiling and how the proportions work in the room. Getting the flow right is the starting point.
Moving the location of a wall or a door can totally transform the possibilities for the layout. Getting storage right is key, but we make sure that our designs are practical and stylish.
Vanity units provide convenient storage for everyday essentials, maintain a tidy space but also create a gorgeous aesthetic.
A large mirror above not only aids in grooming but also reflects light, creating a sense of openness and promoting a calming, spa-like atmosphere.”
If you have the budget, refresh your space with new marble tiles, underfloor heating and bespoke, handcrafted furniture to create your ultimate at-home spa. However, with a few simple changes, you can transform your bathroom into the perfect personal retreat.
HERE ARE SOME GREAT, BUDGET- FRIENDLY IDEAS:
• Fragrance changes our mood making candles, essential oils and diffusers a must for a home spathroom.
• Invest in soft robes and fluffy towels to contribute to a sense of serenity.
• Layers of lighting creates the perfect mood setter. For extra drama and if the space will allow, consider a chandelier.
• Plants are proven to improve wellbeing, they add a gorgeous bathroom aesthetic and improve the quality of the air, reducing the amount of dust.
• A cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind, so to create your sanctuary make sure the space is clean and tidy.
• Go for soothing, neutral tones that are relaxing and timeless.
• Upgrade your fixtures and fittings with a new rainfall showerhead, gold or brass taps.
A spa is all about being pampered and you can transform your bathroom into a luxurious spa-like retreat. Achieving a serene and elegant bathroom is easier than ever, no matter your budget.
The
Luxury Accents
Candles and warming accents contribute to a sense of serenity Focus on Lighting
Neutral Decor
Opt
MEET THE DESIGNER
In an age of mass-produced items, Dales craftsman Tom Addison is flying the flag for traditional, lovingly-made, handcrafted items. Andrew Vaux talks to him about his work
In his home-based workshop in the tranquil village of Nappa Scar, Wensleydale, Tom Addison is living his dream.
Passionate about perfection and quality, Tom painstakingly creates individuallycrafted, bespoke, wooden items which all reflect unique parts of the beautiful Dales countryside around him.
He explains: “It’s a lifestyle for me. I’ve got two daughters aged three and four and I’m able to spend a lot of time with them and see them growing up.
“I’m working from home, I’m doing something I love, I look out of the workshop window and see all the hills. It’s everything I dreamt of.
“I think it’s very special that I can make something locally here and that link to the countryside and the Yorkshire Dales can go anywhere in the world!”
And so where did this dream start?
Growing up in Kendal, on the edge of the Lake District, Tom admits he often “lived in his own creative world” and expressed himself through GCSE art and woodwork classes.
He started a furniture making course at Kendal College, but his passion to begin working in the furniture industry meant he quit the course after just over a year.
I’M WORKING FROM HOME, I’M DOING SOMETHING I LOVE, I LOOK OUT OF THE WORKSHOP WINDOW AND SEE ALL THE HILLS. IT’S EVERYTHING I DREAMT OF
He comments: “I was so keen that when I heard Peter Hall & Sons were looking for a new apprenticeship, I turned up just before they closed one day and handed over my CV, application form and some bits that I’d made!
“I knew there’d be a lot of competition for the job because it’s a very niche industry. Apprenticeships with a well-established company are very hard to come by so I was delighted when they took me on.”
This was the true start that Tom needed to set him on the road to a successful career.
He says: “I was working alongside some of the best furniture makers in the country in my opinion. We worked on some amazing commissions including making furniture for the Duke of Westminster.
“I got chance to work on some fantastic pieces which really allowed me to hone my skills and strive for the best. High quality and nothing but the best was drilled into me from the start of my career.
“You started off by learning the real basics. You’d do small parts of larger commissions, for example planing some chair legs and then as you became more experienced you’d make a full commission from start to finish.
“I really loved all the training and learning about the different woods and the individual qualities they have.
“Working on such a variety of commissions sowed the seed for me that I wanted to do this for myself one day. The dream of having my own business with my own workshop making fine handcrafted pieces of furniture really excited me. I wanted the creative freedom to be able to influence designs.”
In 2021, he launched Tom Addison Fine Furniture.
He remembers one of his first commissions: “A lady who lived in London but had grown up in the Dales asked me to make an oak desk. She wanted something which was handcrafted in the Dales and reflected her time here.
“I made the Ribblesdale desk and aspects of the design reflected the area, for example all the dovetails reflecting the arches of the Ribblehead Viaduct and the lower profile of
the desk reflected the slopes of Pen-Y-Ghent. It really inspired me getting out in the Dales and using my creativity to design a unique piece of furniture.”
YOU REALLY DO LEAVE A PART OF YOURSELF IN WHAT YOU’VE CREATED, EVERY PIECE IS DIFFERENT
He’s currently working on some oak louvers to replace the old ones in St Oswald’s Church in Askrigg. He says: “I was honoured to be asked to do this, as it’s such an historic building. What I’m making will be there for generations to come and when they’re older my daughters will be able to drive past and think ‘my dad made them!’
Tom’s dream is still very much alive and
listening to his passion and enthusiasm there are certainly no signs that it’ll die anytime soon.
Tom concludes: “You really do leave part of yourself in what you’ve created. Every piece is different. I think this is something people will always want in their homes as they appreciate the love that’s gone into it from the maker and the time and effort involved.
“People treasure handcrafted pieces because they can’t be replaced, they’re truly one-off pieces and they’re timeless as well.
“I don’t think I’ll ever retire. I’ll just keep pottering on doing what I love until I can’t do it anymore!” n
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RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.
Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB
Bannister Hall is a premier retailer of Millboard, a revolutionary decking that transforms outside spaces
Easter is typically the time that many of us start thinking about spending time in our gardens and outside space. Lighter evenings and longer, warmer days signal that spring is finally around the corner and is usually the incentive we need to embark on any landscaping works. Many of us spend far too much time ‘on’ our gardens rather than ‘in’ them so its vitally important that our outside space suits our own individual lifestyles. Any time outdoors and being at one with nature is good for our mental health and ideal for reinvigorating the senses when taking a break from working from home. So, irrespective of whether your outside space is in a rural or a more urban setting, having designated areas to be able to relax, read, eat and enjoy will no doubt be top of everyone’s ‘must-have’ list.
Bannister Hall Nursery & Landscaping Materials Centre is now a premier retailer of the revolutionary, virtually natural, wood
decking by Millboard, which offers the perfect solution for any commercial or residential outdoor project.
Operating for more than two decades, Bannister Hall is a family-run business, dedicated to environmentally ethical business practices and to providing a first-rate customer service. Eco-friendly and of exceptional quality, there is a natural synergy with the Millboard brand whose products align perfectly with this ethos, as Alan Lovell, MD at Bannister Hall Ltd, explains: “Millboard products are highly innovative and truly superior to other types of decking in terms of durability, variety and quality. The range will sit perfectly alongside our new Spanish porcelain tiles and natural stone paving ranges within our landscaping store. Millboard truly has the beauty of natural wood but without the maintenance downside.”
Bannister Hall grow, source and deliver the very best quality in hedging, specimen trees, shrubs and plants, all at a fraction of the cost of garden centre prices. As the North West’s premier single-source supplier of soft and hard landscaping materials, it is also
a source for porcelain and a wide range of natural stone paving. For Bannister Hall, becoming a Millboard retailer significantly enhances the company’s impressive qualityled, product portfolio.
SO WHY CHOOSE MILLBOARD?
• It’s resistant to algae, unlike wood, there is no protein content to assist algae growth within the boards.
• It’s also environmentally friendly as the base materials have low impact on global warming.
• Millboard is hygienic as it has a non-porous surface that is easy to clean for spills and deposits.
• It has UV and weathering stability and has been tested in most weathers and temperatures so remains UV stable.
• The boards are slip resistant with a high grip surface which is much safer than wood, especially in the wet.
• It’s lightweight making it easy to handle and install.
• Millboard is low maintenance and resists stains from food or drinks spills and algae growth.
It benefits from lost-head fixing – Durafix fixings are virtually hidden beneath the unique Lastane surface.
• Millboard is moulded from real oak – not extruded like most composites.
• It doesn’t warp or rot like real wood.
• It’s splinter free – no wood content means absolutely no splinters.
• Millboard has a low carbon footprint – it’s independently and UKAS accredited to the ISO 14064-1 Verified Carbon Footprint Assurance mark.
MILLBOARD
PRODUCTS ARE HIGHLY INNOVATIVE AND TRULY SUPERIOR TO OTHER TYPES OF DECKING IN TERMS OF DURABILITY, VARIETY AND QUALITY
ONE MATERIAL MANY APPLICATIONS
Millboard cladding and decking is incredibly versatile not just from a design perspective but also in helping solve common landscaping problems.
Aesthetics – designers can use one material for a number of purposes which results in a unified look without the need to source alternative materials. Built-in seating, planters and even dining tables and pergolas are just a few examples of how Millboard can be used.
Wet gardens have limitations in that other materials such as stone, concrete and natural wood can be become slippery when wet. Millboard products contain no wood and consequently isn’t susceptible to rotting or warping – it’s also highly slip resistant. Sloping gardens present specific design challenges, decking offers an easier and often, a more economical alternative to extensive groundworks and excavation.
SELECTION AND VISUALISATION
Choosing your Millboard decking is a significant decision and one that you will want to get right. At Bannister Hall, the team makes it easy with free samples sent to your home and a wide range of Millboard decking to view and choose in-store. Bannister Hall can also arrange ‘approved expert’ installation of all Millboard products. n
Contact the team today to discover more about Millboard decking and cladding.
Bannister Hall
Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087
bannisterhall.com
OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY
FREE ON-SITE PARKING
ICONIC COOKER WITH A UNIQUE HISTORY
Get to grips with 170 years of heritage and test drive a range cooker at ESSE’s Barnoldswick base
On the Lancashire-Yorkshire border, by the side of the scenic Leeds-Liverpool canal, a team of experts still build ESSE range cookers and stoves by hand, using time-honoured techniques, skills, and knowledge built up since 1854.
This foundry-turned-factory in the charming market town of Barnoldswick produces ESSE’s full range of modern clean-burning stoves and energy-efficient range cookers, all featuring the iconic script branding that represents the company’s rich history.
The company was founded following a shipwreck with a dramatic survival story and ESSE cookers have been relied upon for food and warmth in Florence Nightingale’s hospital and in Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition hut. They were at the heart of historic homes and the epicentre of commercial kitchens like The Savoy. There is a modest museum close to the ESSE factory that explores the company’s development over the years.
THE COMPANY WAS FOUNDED FOLLOWING A SHIPWRECK WITH A DRAMATIC SURVIVAL STORY AND ESSE COOKERS HAVE BEEN RELIED UPON FOR FOOD AND WARMTH IN FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE’S HOSPITAL AND IN SHACKLETON’S ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION HUT
Showcasing why ESSEs continue to have such unwavering appeal for modern homeowners, there is a welcoming on-site showroom where visitors can book an appointment to explore and examine products in more detail. There are nine beautiful range cookers on display, including wood-fired models and energy-efficient electric, with a live Ironheart providing welcome warmth whatever the weather.
Marketing Manager Alix Eltringham says: “We take great pride in producing beautifully
Today, ESSEs are still relied upon at River Cottage, in Royal households, and in homes across the world.
informative product brochures, but nothing compares to coming and seeing these range cookers for yourself. Visitors to the showroom can ask questions, compare colours, visualise the size and oven capacity, discuss moisture control ovens or heat surround technology, and experience the many little details that make ESSE range cookers so special, right down to the nudge-shut handles.
“If you’d like to ‘try before you buy’ there is also the option to book onto a cookery or baking course with renowned local chef Dominique Ashford.”
Dominique has worked in some of the UK’s premier kitchens. Having trained under Michelin-starred chefs, she went on to spend 13 years as Head Pastry Chef at the Houses of Parliament.
Her food focuses on comfort and quality, with a seasonal approach to ingredients, and places on her cookery courses and renowned bread-making experiences are snapped up quickly.
Dominique works with ESSE as a product tester, putting range cookers thoroughly through their paces and advising on anything that could be improved to ensure ESSE continues to evolve, even after 170 years. She is now hosting her coveted cookery
classes on an electric ESSE within the wellequipped ESSE showroom.
Dominique also uses an ESSE 1000 X at home, featuring a three-zone induction hob for instant efficient heat, combined with a more traditional cast iron hotplate which can be used for searing, chargrilling or toasting directly on the plate. Large rectangular lids double as an effective splashback.
IF YOU’D LIKE TO ‘TRY BEFORE YOU BUY’ THERE IS ALSO THE OPTION TO BOOK ONTO A COOKERY OR BAKING COURSE WITH RENOWNED LOCAL CHEF DOMINIQUE ASHFORD
The capacious ovens of this electric range cooker use ESSE’s unique ‘power share’ engineering, to direct energy where it’s needed so all cooking zones heat quickly, with lower running costs. Ovens have a deep insulated design which retains heat for even temperatures and succulent flavours.
Dominique says: “I need a cooker that’s easy to use and easy to clean. To ‘earn its keep’ it must offer swift and responsive heat up times. I make all my bread at home and the 1000 X is like using a professional bread oven. I love the versatility of the solid cast iron top –it’s perfect for simmering a stew, making pancakes, or even searing meat or vegetables.
Book an ESSE showroom appointment: esse.com/book-a-showroomappointment/
Or book a place on one of Dominique’s cookery classes: dalehousebarn.co.uk/ courses-at-dale-house/
“With my cookery sessions at ESSE, I’m looking forward to teaching people new skills and also sharing the benefits of these range cookers with potential new ESSE owners. Personally, I find the quality of these cookers and stoves second to none, which is reflective of ESSE being a local, family-run firm with a commitment to quality that stretches all the way back to the 1800s.”
Dominique will be offering small group cookery courses designed to inspire and empower food lovers of all skill levels. With a maximum of six participants, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, hands-on experience in a supportive and friendly atmosphere. Private courses are also available for those seeking a more bespoke culinary adventure.
Classes include ‘Cooking with Wild and Foraged Ingredients’, ‘Sourdough and SlowProve Breads’, ‘Artisan Bread’, and ‘Afternoon Tea Making.’ n
ESSE Engineering Long Ing Lane Barnoldswick BB18 6BJ 01282 813235 enquiries@esse.com esse.com
SPRING DELIGHTS
At last, we reach the highlight of the gardening year – and a few subtle tweaks can extend and enhance any garden space at this time of the year to give a longer display throughout the summer. Nigel Eaton from Moss & Moor gives his top five tips for this spring
1. My first recommendation is to plant up a few containers with a mix of annual and perennial plants that will give you six months of glorious colour. Good combinations are made by using complementary colours such as deep red and pink. Firstly, pick your container and make sure there is a layer of drainage in the bottom to make sure the pots don’t become waterlogged. A pleasing selection would be dark red dahlias, uncinia rubra grass and pale pink begonias. This combo would sit in either a sunny or semi shaded area and flower from now through till October. Uncinia is an evergreen grass with dark copper-coloured leaves and makes a great foil for the begonias to show against.
2. Secondly feed your growing plants, not just for the spring display, but for continued flowering through the summer. Liquid
or calcified seaweed is an excellent rose fertiliser encouraging strong growth, more flowers and subsequent later flowerings through the summer months. The seaweed allows the plants to take up extra trace elements that give healthy strong growth that is more resistant to pests and diseases. Make sure you deadhead your roses after flowering to encourage new buds.
LIQUID OR CALCIFIED SEAWEED IS AN EXCELLENT ROSE FERTILISER ENCOURAGING STRONG GROWTH, MORE FLOWERS AND SUBSEQUENT LATER FLOWERINGS THROUGH THE SUMMER MONTHS
3. As we get through the spring and into early summer make sure that autumn planted bulbs like tulips and daffodils are deadheaded and fed whilst still flowering, with a high potash liquid feed that will
build the bulbs up for the following season. This way the bulbs flower longer this year and will bulk up and offer a greater display next year.
4. Plant a late flowering viticella clematis at the base of early flowering shrubs like lilac and forsythia. The viticella varieties flower August and September and use the shrub to scramble up to raise their flowers for insects to pollinate. The joy of this is that they give the shrub a second flush of colour later in the season and obligingly the clematis gets cut down to the floor in early spring every year so that the host plant is not choked by the climber when it is flowering itself.
5. Finally, my usual request for gardening with nature and not against it. Many short-lived gains for keeping pests at bay such as slug pellets have far reaching effects on our native wildlife. Try and use safe methods and a little patience in dealing with the ‘usual suspects’ such as cabbage white caterpillars, or slugs in your hosta bed and try barrier deterrents such as decorative wire cloches over your cabbages and crushed oyster shell around your hostas.
Your efforts will be greatly appreciated by the other visitors to your garden. n
The comfort dial is set to move even further towards warm and enveloping hues, with Mocha Mousse being named as Pantone’s Colour of the Year
Described as a ‘warming, brown hue imbued with richness’, Mocha Mousse is a coffee tone shade that is predicted to dominate the design industry over the next 12 months. Highlighting the relationship between colour and culture, Mocha Mousse captures a global mood of connection, comfort and harmony.
Nurturing the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, Mocha Mousse is an answer to our desire for comfort and simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.
French Bedroom has long been a fan of rich natural hues, with collections crafted from solid oak, ash or mahogany frameworks.
Stained with a satin varnish to enhance the grain of the wood, they are paired with rich brown velvet and soft natural brown linens that ensure the designs sit effortlessly with natural room schemes.
Bringing the outside in, harking back to nostalgic easy-going times and creating a connection to Mother Earth, the pieces and collections from French Bedroom offer new classic styles for the discerning eye, their warm rich tones bringing a grounded aesthetic, with a focus on quiet luxury.
You can curate your own sanctuary to escape to with French Bedroom, a brand that has been advocating timeless style and thoughtful, quality design since 2006. Discover luxury, handmade furniture that has been designed and manufactured by this family-owned business with authenticity at its core.
Founder Georgia Metcalfe fuses colours and textures, taking inspiration from centuries-old pieces. Customers described her designs as ‘antiques of the future’. Categories include wooden and upholstered beds ranging up to a 7ft emperor, with complementary bedsides, chests, armoires, seating and storage, plus chandeliers, lamps, linens and luxury cushions. n
BESPOKE BOOT ROOM…
A busy family home has been transformed thanks to a new luxurious boot room that provides much-needed storage for sporting equipment along with a fabulous, illuminated drinks cabinet.
Photography: Kirsten Platt
ARibble Valley couple were so impressed with a designer that had previously created a kitchen for them, they sought her out to design a boot room in their beautiful five-bedroom cottage in Ribchester.
Nataša and Marko Šabanovi´c visited Clearly Interiors in Burnley where they re-connected with designer Claire Kelly as Marko recalls: “Nataša and I went over to the showroom in Burnley last year after deciding we desperately needed more storage space.”
Nataša and Marko chatted with Claire discussing how the dining and hallway area of their home could be transformed into a boot room giving them all the storage they need for coats, shoes and sporting equipment.
“We are quite a sporty family. Both Nataša and I play tennis, one of our twin boys plays
basketball while the other is into martial arts.
“The dining area had been used only once in all the years we have lived here as it wasn’t really practical – we always dine in the kitchen. So, it became a bit of a dumping area for all our sports equipment.”
WE ARE NOW ALL ORGANISED AND VERY NEAT. IT IS SO EASY TO KEEP TIDY AS THERE IS SO MUCH STORAGE SPACE
The family home has a large farmhouse kitchen, with a warming, cosy AGA, lovely cream-coloured cabinets and a window seat overlooking stunning views of the brook and fields beyond.
The space Marko and Nataša were keen to convert forms part of the entrance hallway to the cottage so it seemed the ideal place to create much-needed storage for this busy family.
After visiting Clearly Interiors showroom and looking at the many and varied displays, the couple chatted with Claire about colours
and materials that would work well and how the space could be optimised.
“We were really impressed with Claire. Her designs are fantastic and there is never any pressure – she really took on board our ideas,” agree Marko, who works as a freelance laser engraver and Nataša, who runs a busy logistics company.
After meetings with Claire and project manager Adam Schofield, both at the Clearly Interiors showroom and at the family home, Claire produced an excellent design that incorporates hidden, yet elegant storage space for the family’s sporting equipment –including bespoke cupboards and drawers for well-worn trainers, walking boots, shoes, racquets and jackets.
THE TEAM WERE MARVELLOUS AND VERY RELIABLE. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND CLEARLY INTERIORS, THEY DO A FANTASTIC JOB!
One end of the former dining space and hallway has been transformed with a dark glass, illuminated drinks cabinet, a wine rack and small beer and wine chiller.
“We saw the glass cabinet in the Clearly Interiors showroom and really liked it,” says Marko. “Claire suggested we put one cabinet on top of the other, which works really well as it fitted perfectly.”
A large expanse of one wall is used for bespoke, floor-to-ceiling cabinets in Hunter Green that illuminate when opened, providing a huge amount of storage, while the wall opposite has a matching bespoke, built-in bench with pull-out drawers for shoe and trainer storage.
Above the bench, original beams have been retained as features with brass coat hooks above, while neat, downlighting has been installed to replace former traditional pendants, making this a welcoming yet ultimately practical space that has an added touch of luxury.
This newly created boot room has transformed what was a tired, impractical space into a fabulous area that is now used by all members of this sporting family. It has changed the dynamics of the house and, being adjacent to the kitchen, it has very much become the busy hub of this fantastic family home.
“We are now all organised and very neat. It is so easy to keep tidy as there is so much storage space,” says Marko.
Speaking about the work carried out by the
and project manager Adam was really helpful too. I would highly recommend Clearly Interiors, they do a fantastic job!”
“Claire is a very talented young designer
Designer Claire adds: “Marko and Nataša are a lovely couple whom I have worked with previously, so to get a direct message from them requesting a home visit to discuss their boot room was a lovely surprise. The Šabanovi´cs are a super active family so following the design brief for this room was key. As always it was a pleasure to work with them and to see the finished article being utilised is fantastic!” n
Clearly Interiors team of craftsmen over the two-week conversion, he adds: “They were marvellous, really organised and very reliable.
whitewash oak backless stool, which seamlessly complement the much-loved collections.
Made-to-last, these pieces are perfect for busy kitchens and stylish spaces alike.
For added peace of mind the new bar stool styles include a 15-year structural guarantee.
Simple seasonal updates can also be achieved effortlessly with a stylish selection of home accessories.
Choose from organically shaped lamps in elegant summer hues, beautifully crafted jute rugs with scalloped edges and fresh designs, or a wide array of cushions in luxurious textures, floral prints and classic styles – perfect for layering on sofas, armchairs and beds.
A new line of four exclusive UK-made scented candles in wood-lidded glass vessels add a touch of ambience to the home – the Flower Garden scent combines summery notes of bergamot, cassis, apple and violet,
NEW COLLECTIONS
These beautiful new additions to the home will refresh and revive your interior just in time for the arrival of spring
The arrival of spring often brings with it a desire for change and there’s no better place to start than at home.
This spring the Cotswold Company has unveiled a beautifully curated and thoughtfully designed collection of furniture and home accessories, perfect for a seasonal
refresh or a full interior redesign.
For the first time, the brand introduces a collection of bar stools designed to suit any style of kitchen, from a traditional farmhouse setting to a contemporary space with clean, simple lines.
FOR THE FIRST TIME, THE BRAND INTRODUCES A COLLECTION OF BAR STOOLS DESIGNED TO SUIT ANY STYLE
Highlights include the Elkstone mellow oak, spindleback bar stool and the Inglesham
blending into an uplifting floral aroma. This is complemented by the herbaceous charm of hyacinth, peony, rose, iris and jasmine, all balanced with patchouli, cedar wood, vanilla and musk.
From a chic new dining table to gather the family around to a beautifully crafted desk to celebrate a career change, or perhaps elegant garden furniture to enjoy the start of warmer days, the 2025 collection is beautifully curated to offer versatile, well-crafted and made-to-last furniture and home accessories, welcoming the new season in timeless style. n
cotswoldco.com
Another colourful addition, albeit more subtle, is bronze fennel. Unlike standard Florence fennel, bronze fennel – Foeniculum vulgare ‘Purpureum’ – will not form a bulb, but with its aromatic fern-like bronzed foliage, pretty small yellow flowers and slightly aniseed scent, it is a magnet for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This plant ticks all the boxes for a garden all-rounder.
SPRING HAS SPRUNG!
The days are getting longer and warmer now and colour is building in the early spring garden
March is a month of digging and sowing and a time to get busy preparing seed beds, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up.
In addition to getting vegetable and flower seeds started in the greenhouse or undercover, you can also sow hardy seeds outside into their final positions depending on where you live in the UK. Your garden’s climatic conditions will affect when you sow and plant out. In the south that’s going to be March, but the further north you live it will be early or even late April, dependent on frost.
Leaving behind the subdued colours of winter, March brings a pop of colour to the garden and a smile to the face, as spring bulbs burst into bloom. There are carpets of crocuses, masses of golden daffodils and as the month progresses, the first jewel-like tulips start to appear. Some daffodils might be coming to the end of their flowering period, in which case a bit of deadheading will keep bulbs healthy and if you let the leaves yellow and wither naturally, they will return nutrients to the bulb. If the weather turns dry, daffodils will benefit from watering and if they are growing in pots, feed weekly
with a potassium-rich fertiliser such as tomato feed. Favourite varieties include Narcissus ‘February Gold’ that has early bright-yellow flowers in February, Narcissus ‘Fragrant Rose’ with a scented, soft pink daffodil flower that appears in April and Narcissus ‘Tete-a-Tete’ the much loved miniature with bright yellow trumpet flowers that show in March and April.
IT WAS ONE OF THOSE MARCH DAYS WHEN THE SUN SHINES HOT AND THE WIND BLOWS COLD, WHEN IT IS SUMMER IN THE LIGHT AND WINTER IN THE SHADE
Charles Dickens
It’s edible and a fast grower and pops up in spring after dying back in winter reaching a height and spread of around two metres by one metre. It can sit happily among the thyme and rosemary in a sunny herb garden, or be planted in an ornamental border. The seeds, which can be used in cooking and infusions, should be removed as they turn brown and then dried. n
TOP TIPS:
The longer days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks. Here are some top tips from the Royal Horticultural Society:
• Prune bush and climbing roses
• Plant onion sets and shallots
• Plant summer flowering bulbs
• Plant early potatoes
• Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials
• Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed)
• Cut back ornamental grasses that have been left standing over winter
• Prune buddleia to encourage new flowering growth
• Feed trees, shrubs and hedges
• Start sowing veg seeds outside in mild areas eg broad beans, carrots, parsnips, beetroot, onions, lettuces, radish, peas and spinach
CUTTING EDGE
Introducing AutoMowIt. Taking lawn care to the next level –effortlessly!
Taking a fresh innovative approach to lawn care, AutoMowIt combines decades of experience with cuttingedge robotic mowers to simplify and elevate lawn maintenance.
Founder Tyler Stevenson’s 20 years’ premium lawn care experience with GreenThumb ensures that every customer receives expert guidance on choosing the right mower for their specific needs. AutoMowIt focuses on delivering highquality, durable equipment supplying from brands like Ambrogio and Mammotion.
AUTOMOWIT OFFERS A TAILORED, COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO KEEP YOUR LAWN IN TIP-TOP SHAPE
The real beauty of robotic mowers is in the consistency they provide – perfect for maintaining a lush lawn effortlessly. While some people enjoy mowing, the truth is that keeping your lawn healthy requires frequent care, which is exactly what these mowers do best, even when you’re busy or away. With
AutoMowIt you can also customise your mower’s design patterns to add a bit of fun, creating messages or designs in your lawn! These mowers are designed to be efficient and eco-friendly, using grass clippings as natural fertiliser to nourish your lawn. Plus, by frequently mowing, daily if you choose, they prevent the growth of moss and thatch, a particular issue for larger lawns. Keeping your lawn looking vibrant has never been so easy.
The cost savings also make these mowers extremely popular. For example:
• Mr A, with a 600m 2 garden, saw his mowing costs drop dramatically from £80 a visit to just £1.81 per mow with the Mammotion Yuka Mini.
• Meanwhile, Mrs B, who manages a large field, is now able to maintain 2.5 acres with a Mammotion Luba 10,000, cutting her need for a garden tractor and providing her family with a beautiful, well-maintained outdoor space.
“AutoMowIt is totally independent so we can advise and recommend the type of mower which will work best for each individual client,” says Tyler, who took on the Ambrogio brand five years ago and has more recently added Mammotion to the first-class AutoMowIt line-up.
THESE MOWERS ARE GAME-CHANGERS!
By combining lawn care expertise with the latest robot mower technology AutoMowIt can deliver a truly first-class lawn service for both domestic and commercial clients.
“Each time I supply and install a robot I get referrals for friends and family. I only make a recommendation if it’s the perfect fit,” Tyler adds. “These mowers are gamechangers and exceed all expectations!”
So, whether you have a small garden or a large estate, AutoMowIt offers a tailored, cost-effective hassle free solution to keep your lawn in tip-top shape day in and day out. n
AutoMowIt Unit 3, Portland Farm Buckholes Lane Higher Wheelton
HIM: Barbour Sander casual
HER: Mansted Hibiscus ice jumper
BESPOKE TAILORS
Wherever your day takes you, make sure you stand out in a bespoke suit, or separates from Norton and Townsend.
From our showrooms in Ilkley & London we aim to cover as much as the UK as possible. Instore appointments or home/office visits to suit you.
Bespoke Suits for Business, Pleasure, Weddings, Shooting & Racing ILKLEY
Put a spring in your step and visit fitright footwear for a fitting experience you won’t forget.
Photography: Kirsten Platt
Fitright footwear is a unique, specialist, independent, retail shoe shop that offers an adult only, one to one measuring and fitting service by appointment only.
Why appointments? Why a locked door?
These are questions we are often asked. Our success over the last nine years has proved that along with our amazing range of footwear brands and styles, our outstanding, professional customer service is one of the many reasons our customers return again and again.
By offering an appointment only system in our stores with a fully trained shoe fitter, and providing a personal one to one service, we believe we have vastly enhanced our customer experience, and the locked door ensures a relaxed, stress free, private atmosphere with no interruptions during their appointment.
The customers who walk through our door are struggling to find footwear in an average high street retail shoe shop and so need more assistance to find shoes that fit.
This is mainly because they have awkward and hard to fit feet due to problems such
as bunions, arthritis, corns, hammer toes and wider than average feet, and many high street shoe shops do not have the variety of widths, depths, styles and sizes needed, product knowledge or the time and expertise to accommodate these issues. We measure our customer’s feet and take the time to fully understand the nature of any foot problems our customers are experiencing and establish what footwear they are looking for and ensure that they are fit for purpose.
There is nothing worse than painful feet and while shoes that fit well are not a cure, they will go a long way to easing some of the discomfort you may be experiencing.
THERE IS NOTHING WORSE THAN PAINFUL FEET AND WHILE SHOES THAT FIT WELL ARE NOT A CURE, THEY WILL GO A LONG WAY TO EASING SOME OF THE DISCOMFORT YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING
At fitright footwear you will find an extensive range of fabulous, stylish footwear within an array of different brands – some of which you may never have heard of or even seen before and all of which fit differently. Just like our fingerprints all feet are different; there is no standardisation for feet. No ‘one size fits all’.
It’s just not possible. Our customers have learnt that you can buy elsewhere but you just won’t get the service or the range and comfort available at fitright footwear.
Feet are important so let’s look after them! Treat them to shoes that fit. If you are experiencing problems with your feet, continuing to wear shoes that don’t fit correctly will only result in your problems getting worse and more painful. There is no substitute for comfortable, correctly fitting shoes.
Book your appointment now and make a difference to how you and your feet feel.
Fitright footwear – with you every step of the way. n
Appointments only:
Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm
100 per cent cashmere pieces a year, with founder Ali Orr turning her hand to saving the precious fabric from going to waste and pledging her commitment to making luxury affordable and accessible for everyone.
The business expanded from humble beginnings, with Ali starting as a secondhand seller on eBay. She began sourcing 100 per cent discarded cashmere and now sees her garments enjoyed by customers from all around the globe, via the company’s shop and website.
I’VE
ALWAYS LOVED CASHMERE – FOR ME IT’S THE ULTIMATE LUXURY AND I COULDN’T BEAR TO SEE EVEN A SCRAP OF THIS PRECIOUS FABRIC GOING TO WASTE
Ali explains a little more about how her vision came to fruition: “I’ve always loved cashmere – for me, it’s the ultimate luxury and I couldn’t bear to see even a scrap of this precious fabric going to waste. Our business model means that not only are we achieving sustainability but also providing a more realistic price point for customers who love cashmere but want to spend less – this has become increasingly important over the past couple of years, given the current financial climate. I love the fact that we are making this beautiful and traditionally high-end product available for less, for more people to enjoy.”
And what a journey it’s been. Ali continues: “From my original idea and setting up the business we have grown rapidly and now restore thousands of discarded 100 per cent cashmere items over the course of a year –we recycle mostly post-consumer waste, which is cashmere that has been owned and worn before.
WHERE LUXURY MEETS SUSTAINABILITY
A love of cashmere has turned into a thriving business with a global reach. Ali Orr tells Katie Hammond how her company grew from a simple hobby
When an avid second-hand shopping enthusiast turned her hobby into a business a unique and appealing luxury offering was born – minus the hefty price tag.
The Nearly New Cashmere Company restores thousands of second hand
“Whilst the majority of our garments don’t need repairs, occasionally we make minor alterations to an otherwise perfect jumper to give it a new lease of life. Each piece of knitwear is individually inspected to ensure it meets our exacting quality standards, before being carefully reconditioned and prepared for sale.”
In order to further meet customer expectations the pieces are roughly half the price of a new garment and the website provides precise measurements and sizing guides as part of their buyer satisfaction commitment. Each piece is photographed on the correctly sized model, along with detailed measurements of the garments to give clarity around sizing, complemented by an easy exchange and returns policy.
WHILST THE MAJORITY OF OUR GARMENTS DON’T NEED REPAIRS, OCCASIONALLY WE MAKE MINOR ALTERATIONS TO AN OTHERWISE PERFECT JUMPER TO GIVE IT A NEW LEASE OF LIFE
True to Ali’s original goals, there’s nothing that goes to waste, with any pieces which don’t reach the team’s high standards being re-worked into new items such as snoods, gloves and hats.
With the company now thriving, having moved to bigger premises in 2023 and employing seven members of staff, Ali reflects on how far the business has come.
“From establishing the brand in 2017 we began to build our community from the ground up, initially at charity second-hand fairs across the UK.
“In 2019 we opened our first shop in my hometown of Masham, North Yorkshire. Covid forced our next move in 2020 when we transitioned to an online business model alongside our retail shop. In 2021 we introduced a range of vintage silk scarves to our online collection and in 2022 we extended our offering by creating a range of cashmere tank tops and neck warmers knitted from
With the business set to go from strength to strength, Ali’s sense of pride is obvious and justifiable. She continues: “Coming from such a rural area, I’m particularly grateful to have been able to offer more opportunities to local people, who might otherwise have struggled to follow their creative passions
and ambitions.
“I’m so proud of all we have achieved so far and to be consistently living up to a motto we coined right at the very beginning –‘we are proud to be second hand, but never second best’.” n
nearlynewcashmere.co.uk
80 per cent recycled cashmere yarn.”
N°1 DE CHANEL REVITALIZING
EYE SERUM £78
Enriched with red camellia extract and camellia yeast, its fresh gel formula boosts the skin's vitality and protects the delicate eye area. Under-eye bags, dark circles and stress lines appear reduced. Also leaves eyebrows visibly fuller. chanel.com
FLORAL HEAVEN
Unwind and give yourself a floral treat with these sensuous products that will leave you feeling and looking your very best
TATA HARPER HYDRATING FLORAL ESSENCE £104
Moisturises and plumps with hyaluronic acid and natural humectants, prepping the skin for maximum absorption of treatments that follow. Best for dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. tataharperskincare.com
DIPTYQUE SOFTENING & COMFORTING
HAND WASH £56
Fine lavender from Provence lends its regenerative qualities to this soothing hand wash, it also delivers lavender and rosemary notes softened by subtle accents of ylang-ylang and amber. diptyqueparis.com
ELEMIS GENTLE ROSE EXFOLIATOR £39
A skin-smoothing exfoliator that gently buffs away dirt and dead skin cells to reveal a soft and smooth complexion. uk.elemis.com
SUSANNE KAUFMANN BATH FOR THE SENSES £55
Infused with the delicate, soothing scent of ylang ylang, patchouli and lavender, this bath soak works to help unwind the body and the mind, while the calming formula leaves the skin feeling comforted. suzannekaufmann.com
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.
LANCÔME ABSOLUE ROSE 80 ESSENCE-IN-LOTION £140
A concentrated treatment in a lotion enriched with 80% absolue rose essence for firmer, smoother, stronger skin which is visibly refined and looks revitalised.lancome.co.uk
JO MALONE LONDON TAIF ROSE COLOGNE INTENSE £112
Taif Rose takes its name from a precious rose indigenous to Taif, a city where the flower fills the streets, markets and fields with its scent and vivid hue. It is fresh and luminous with a moreish finish that is completely unique. jomalone.co.uk
THE RITUAL OF SAKURA SUGAR BODY POLISH £18.90 Renew your skin with this mix of nourishing oils, sugar and cherry exfoliant. rituals.com
Improves appearance and functionality of the skin
Non-invasive with minimal downtime
NOSE KNOW HOW
Rhinophyma, a severe form of rosacea, can impact confidence and quality of life. Discover Laser in Burnley offers UltraPulse CO2 laser treatment to restore natural contours and self-assurance
Characterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, Rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn.
Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser in Burnley offers life-changing treatments for Rhinophyma using the UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.
Rhinophyma typically presents as a bulbous, enlarged nose with thickened skin and visible pores. In advanced cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airflow, causing functional and aesthetic concerns.
Linked to advanced or untreated rosacea, it develops gradually and, like rosacea, can be triggered by sun exposure, alcohol, spicy foods or stress. While early medication intervention can help control rosacea, Rhinophyma often requires a more targeted approach to address the thickened tissue and restore the nose’s natural shape.
Dr Montero explains how the UltraPulse CO2 laser has revolutionised the treatment of Rhinophyma at his clinic: “UltraPulse is ideal for Rhinophyma because it allows us to target thickened areas of the skin with incredible accuracy. The results are not just aesthetic – treatment can relieve discomfort and even improve breathing in severe cases.
“Precise and safe, the advanced laser technology removes excess tissue layer by layer, smoothing and reshaping the skin while preserving healthy underlying structures.
“Unlike surgery, laser treatment is minimally invasive with less downtime,
allowing our patients to return to normal routines within a week.”
Patients treated at Discover Laser often describe their journey as nothing short of transformative:
“The shape of my nose changed over 10 years, becoming lumpy and wider. I had seen a dermatologist who prescribed topical treatments for the redness, but they didn’t improve the lumpiness. I was concerned when I looked further into what Rhinophyma can do to people. I didn’t want my nose to become an embarrassment.
“When I spoke to Dr Montero about treatment, I told him I wanted a smooth, narrower nose. He talked me through the treatment and answered my questions.
“My biggest fear was how much pain I’d have during treatment and after, but I followed his post-care instructions to the letter and had none. The whole experience was terrific from beginning to end and I’m 100% happy with the results. My confidence has come back and my fears of what might happen have gone.
“If you’re considering having treatment for Rhinophyma, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dr Montero and UltraPulse.”
Discover Laser is a trusted destination for advanced dermatological skin care in the North West. If you or someone you know is living with Rhinophyma, there’s no need to feel resigned to the condition. With expert care and advanced laser treatments, Discover Laser can help restore both appearance and confidence.
To book your ROSACEA CONSULTATION with Dr Montero, call Discover Laser’s team on 01282 420886
MY BIGGEST FEAR WAS HOW MUCH PAIN I’D HAVE DURING TREATMENT AND AFTER, BUT I FOLLOWED HIS POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE LETTER AND HAD NONE.
THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE WAS TERRIFIC FROM BEGINNING TO END AND I’M 100% HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS.
~ TONY, DISCOVER LASER PATIENT ~
REAWAKEN YOUR INNER GLOW
Step into spring feeling happy and comfortable in your skin, thanks to safe, effective and advanced clinical treatments at Ilkley’s award-winning Jacqui Mac Medispa
Celebrating a year since picking up the keys to new premises, conveniently situated on The Grove, owner Jackie McGarry has transformed them into a tranquil, comfortable and welcoming haven offering a wide range of life-enhancing aesthetic treatments, including prescription-only anti-wrinkle, skincare and dietary therapies.
As a registered nurse specialising in aesthetic therapies, Jackie personally heads the only CQC-registered clinic in the area. This means you benefit from the best advice, latest treatments, clinical hygiene, best results and aftercare from Jackie and her team of skilled, understanding medical nurses and skin therapists.
Perfect for getting legs summer-ready, Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal is the world-class gold standard in permanent depilation. The only genuinely ‘sting-free’ laser treatment in the area, precise emerald crystal laser wavelengths target swift, permanent hair removal without affecting surrounding skin. Suitable for the widest range of hair types and colours, including very light and thin, wider coverage leaves you ready to bare even quicker!
Harness the power of advanced, medical-grade energy-based treatments,
holistic aesthetics, pioneering topical and non-invasive procedures, fillers, medicalgrade injectables and microneedling, for confidence-boosting, life-enhancing natural results. Recently introduced, new PLLA and PCL thread lifts create more collagen for more effective, natural-looking and longer-lasting results for jaw, lower and mid-face lifts.
AS A REGISTERED
NURSE SPECIALISING IN AESTHETIC THERAPIES, JACKIE PERSONALLY HEADS THE ONLY CQC-REGISTERED CLINIC IN THE AREA
“Common conditions, including redness, acne, pigmentation, rosacea, frown lines, sagging skin and thread veins affect confidence but they no longer need to make us feel unfairly older, tired and unhappy, thanks to the comfortable, painless and immediate results offered by modern treatments,” Jackie says.
“For example, clinically proven DermaluxTri-Wave MD LED Phototherapy, which uses therapeutic light energy to trigger the skin’s natural repair and rejuvenation processes, for naturally radiant and clearer
looking skin. Fully insured to offer these treatments from 14 years old, it’s been wonderful helping teenagers regain their confidence at what can be a very sensitive time.
“Suitable for all ages, we’ve been seeing amazing results, from acne, redness and psoriasis to healing wounds and damage. These non-invasive rejuvenating light waves can also boost our ‘happy hormone’ serotonin, helping with mood and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – perfect as we all emerge from a long winter!”
Helping you stay healthy and happy from the inside out, safely guided weight management is proven to boost energy and confidence, while reducing the risk of joint issues, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. Jacqui Mac Medispa’s understanding and effective nurse prescriber-led weight management programme includes detailed initial consultation, bespoke treatment plan, access to the latest prescription breakthroughs to aid appetite control and regular follow-ups to ensure supported success.
From one-to-one treatments to group spa experiences, all no-rush therapies take place in well-appointed private rooms, so pre-booking is essential. For summer-ready confidence book your free consultation. n
Jacqui Mac Medispa
58 The Grove, Ilkley LS29 9PA 01943 618118
jacquimacaesthetics@gmail.com jacquimac.com
jacquimacaesthetics
Photography: Gemma
Suckley
Photography: Gemma
Suckley
WATCH FOR HIDDEN SUGARS
Sugar isn’t always labelled as ‘sugar’, so it’s worth looking out for sneaky names like:
• High-fructose corn syrup
• Dextrose
• Maltodextrin
• Cane juice
If sugar (or one of its many disguises) is near the top of the ingredient list, it is likely more than your body needs.
BE WARY OF SUGAR-FREE CLAIMS
Many sugar-free products contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, which may disrupt gut bacteria and increase cravings for sweet foods. Since they taste sweet without providing energy, they can confuse hunger signals, possibly making you crave even more sugar. Instead, opt for naturally sweet foods like fruit or honey in moderation.
NUTRITION WITH KELI
FIBRE IS YOUR BALANCE
UPFs are often stripped of fibre, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full. If a product has little to no fibre, it’s likely been heavily processed.
Akitchen filled with nourishing foods makes healthy eating more manageable and more enjoyable. With so many ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on supermarket shelves, it’s easy to overlook what’s really in your cupboard, but small changes can make a big difference. A quick label check can help you swap out the worst offenders for foods that fuel your body, boost your energy and support your well-being. Every smart choice brings you closer to a healthier, happier you!
WHAT ARE UPFs?
Ultra-processed foods contain additives, preservatives and flavour enhancers you’d never use at home. And yes, they’re convenient –I get it! But they often lack essential nutrients and can leave you feeling sluggish. You don’t have to give up convenience to eat better. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy both!
COMMON UPFs:
• Sugary cereals
• Packaged snacks (crisps, protein bars, sweets)
• Soft drinks and energy drinks
• Instant noodles and ready meals
• Processed meats (hot dogs, sausages)
WHY INGREDIENT LABELS MATTER
My goodness, food marketing can be misleading! Labels like ‘healthy’ ‘natural’, ‘high fibre’ or ‘high protein’ don’t always mean a product is good for you. The real truth lies in the ingredient, not the label. Here are a few tips on what to look out for:
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The longer the ingredient list, the more processed the food. If there are lots of unfamiliar ingredients, it’s likely ultraprocessed. Whole foods, on the other hand, have short, simple ingredient lists.
SIMPLE SWAPS
Spring cleaning your diet doesn’t mean giving up convenience, it just means making smarter choices:
• Swap sugary cereals for oats with fresh fruit
• Choose plain Greek full fat yoghurt with honey or berries instead of zero per cent fat-flavoured ones
• Pick wholegrain bread instead of white
• Snack on nuts or popcorn instead of crisps – or, in moderation, find crisps made with olive oil
Make homemade dressings instead of store-bought
Once you start checking labels, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make better choices. It’s not about perfection – it’s about small, sustainable swaps that leave you feeling healthier, more energised and in control of your food choices. Over time, these little changes add up, turning your kitchen into a space filled with nourishing, wholesome foods. n
nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli
Nutritionist Keli Thompson explains how small changes can help spring clean your daily diet
• Portman straightforward (fixed braces exclusively for under 18s – without the wait)
• Teeth whitening (for over 18s only)
POWERED BY COMMUNITY, DRIVEN BY HEART
The age-old Yorkshire community spirit is alive, kicking and thriving within the beautiful village of Clapham, writes Katie Hammond
Clapham Village Store is more than just a shop – it’s the beating heart of the vibrant, close-knit rural and historic village. Run by locals and supported by the enthusiasm and ongoing endeavours of its dedicated volunteers, the store offers a unique blend
of traditional charm and the modern convenience required for local life in 2025.
WE OFFER THE SAME SIMPLE THINGS CONSISTENTLY – A FRIENDLY CHAT AND A WARM SPACE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS TO GATHER
For residents picking up daily essentials, walkers exploring the stunning limestone landscapes, or visitors drawn to the village’s rich history and picturesque setting, the store welcomes everyone with a warm smile
and a carefully curated selection of locallysourced goods.
March of this year sees this vibrant hub of the community celebrating 10 years of being open for business. General Manager Helen Rollinson gives us more insight into how the store is a crucial part of daily life in Clapham: “As a village shop, we obviously pride ourselves on stocking the best in local produce, from everyday household essentials to baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables and a great selection of craft beers, wines and spirits.
“We are, however, so much more than a shop. We have more than 40 volunteers from the
village, many of whom have been with us since we opened in 2015, who carry out various duties including baking, operating the till, preparing the morning papers and looking after our finances and maintenance repairs.
“We managed to thrive and support our customers throughout the pandemic and as a result, have continued to provide services such as dry cleaning, home delivery for essentials for those struggling to get out to see us. We offer the same simple things consistently – a friendly chat and a warm space for our customers and friends to gather.”
As the shop and its services have gone from strength to strength, the past decade has seen significant expansion to accommodate the changing needs of the community. There’s now a dedicated area for cards and gifts and a hugely popular selection of home-made food, created with love in the shop’s own kitchen, to take away. There’s also a welcoming garden area at the rear of the shop for cyclists and visitors to rest and take refreshment.
Helen continues: “One of our volunteers said that after moving into the village, joining the shop gave her the opportunity to get to know the local community, help others and enjoy the rapport with the staff and customers. She thinks she probably appreciates being part of the team
as much as any help she can give back to the community, so it’s a win-win.”
A successful business, of course, puts its customers and their needs at the forefront of everything they do and Clapham Village Store is no exception.
WE HAVE MORE THAN 40 VOLUNTEERS FROM THE VILLAGE, MANY OF WHOM HAVE BEEN WITH US SINCE WE OPENED IN 2015
A villager tells us: “The shop is truly amazing. It feels as if it stocks practically everything, with so much variety from all the basics you could need, right through to niche ingredients and luxuries. And it is such a friendly place – a real community resource and service.”
With the tenth anniversary celebration planning well underway and the cakes on
order, Helen concludes: “We’re so proud of what we’ve managed to achieve so far by pulling together and working as a team for the village that we love to call home. None of us are here because we have to be, we are here because we want to be.
“As a community enterprise, Clapham Community Store Ltd is owned by shareholders, all of whom have committed to materially supporting the existence and continued development of the shop. Shareholders are the foundation of the business and all that it stands for and most see their involvement as an important and long-term contribution for the future – a chance to play an important role in a community enterprise that has become the heart of the village. Many have generously chosen to make this a lasting legacy which will continue to benefit the community, hopefully for this generation and many more to come.”
Whatever the future holds for this testament to team effort and social responsibility, the time-old adage is certainly true – it does, indeed, take a village. n
LET’S TAKE A WALK…
Short walks don’t have to be dull. The Grassington riverside walk is a 30 to 45 minute gentle stroll (albeit with a couple of steep sections) that offers great views in a beautiful part of Wharfedale. It will also allow plenty of time to visit the town centre
Grassington has been made famous in recent years as the fictional market town of Darrowby in the new series of All Creatures Great and Small. The pretty cobbled market square is lined by cafés, restaurants, galleries, artisan shops and plenty more to explore.
This walk starts at the National Park Visitor Centre and heads down the iconic Snake Path to the River Wharfe and Linton Falls. The National Park Visitor Centre is based on the edge of the lovely town of Grassington in the heart of Wharfedale.
GRASSINGTON RIVERSIDE CIRCULAR WALK
Distance: One mile
Time: 30 to 45 minutes in total
Parking: National Park Centre, Grassington
Toilets: National Park Centre, Grassington Refreshments: Grassington
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
1. Go through the gate at the bottom corner of the visitor centre car park, turning right down the narrow lane.
2. Take time to admire the falls, which are especially impressive if there’s been plenty of rain. The nearby weirs once channelled water into a large textile mill, now demolished.
3. Just before the bridge go through the gate to your right.
4. Follow the riverside path across the field.
5. Take the small wooden footbridge over the little stream and go through the two gates to the road.
6. Take care as you cross the road, turn right and walk up the hill towards the village centre.
7. At the top, follow the road round to the right.
8. Cross the road at the zebra crossing which takes you back to the National Park Visitor Centre. n
Discover more about the history, landscape, wildlife and culture of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, including this and many other walking routes, at: yorkshiredales.org.uk
Photography: Grassington by Stephen Garnett
Photography: Linton Falls by Paul Harris
IDYLLIC WEDDING SETTING
Getting married is one of the highlights of anyone’s life and picking the right location is key to a perfect day. Rebecca Hay checks out idyllic The Alma Inn on the Lancashire-Yorkshire border
Dreams of a picture perfect wedding certainly come true at a historic coaching inn with the most stunning of moorland scenery.
Attention to detail is the key to the success of The Alma Inn at Laneshawbridge. Brides to be and their grooms are treated to bespoke individual weddings, which tell a couple’s story in a fairytale setting of stone floors, beams and roaring fires.
The popular venue is a versatile one and the perfect setting for receptions, blessings and civil ceremonies. Only 10 minutes from Colne and 20 from Skipton, the inn has fabulous uninterrupted views which make wonderful backdrops for photographs. And the beauty of the inn is it can cater for up to 120 guests during the day and 200 in the evening.
Local excellent quality produce is used to ensure the freshest and most creative of dishes and the menus are designed with that ‘special occasion’ feel about them. Sumptuous breakfasts are served up the morning after the wedding to give guests a chance to reminisce about the big day.
Nine elegantly decorated bedrooms, including the honeymoon suite, are
ONLY 10 MINUTES FROM COLNE AND 20 FROM SKIPTON, THE INN HAS FABULOUS UNINTERRUPTED VIEWS WHICH MAKE WONDERFUL BACKDROPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHS
available to the wedding party and feature traditional and contemporary furnishings which run right through the inn, owned by the prestigious Seafood Pub Company.
And the good news for couples is that the inn is holding a wedding fayre on Thursday,
UP TO 30% OFF WEDDING PACKAGES
Up to and including 13th December 2025 New enquires only
3rd April and offering up to 30 per cent off wedding packages for the remaining dates, up to and including 13th December.
The fayre will run from 5.30 pm until 9pm, with canapés served. The event is designed to give couples a chance to meet the inn’s trusted suppliers and run through inspirational ideas with the experts, with wedding packages with individual themes which blend in beautifully with the timeless character of the inn.
The 30 per cent deal is for new enquiries only, with existing bookings not eligible for transfer, and could save up to £2,450, with dates secured once a deposit has been made.
Three packages are available, the Prestige from May to September currently costs £9,950, dropping to £8,950 between October and April, now discounted to £7,500.
The Elegance package for the May to September dates is priced at £6,995 or £5,995 from October to April, but the discount price brings it down to £4,995.
And the Classic deal from May to September starts at £5,500, down to £4,500 from October to April and dropping to £3,750 with the 30 per cent off.
For more information on the deals and a virtual tour of The Alma Inn visit the website or follow on Instagram. n
To register for the wedding fayre, email: almaweddings@seafoodpubcompany.com
• INSECURITY AND LOW SELF-ESTEEM: By diminishing others, they seek to elevate themselves or alleviate their own feelings of inadequacy and inferiority.
• MANIPULATION AND EXPLOITATION: Gaslighting can be a tool for manipulation, used to exploit someone for personal gain, whether in a personal relationship, at work or in other settings.
• LEARNED BEHAVIOUR: Some people gaslight because they have been exposed
MIND MATTERS
Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes explains gaslighting, the confusion it causes and how a victim can eventually find clarity
Gaslighting is the most insidious form of manipulation used to destroy a person’s confidence and self-esteem in order to gain greater control. The psychological implications can range from that of feeling confused to a person genuinely believing that they losing their mind. I recently worked with a client who, following two years of this type of abuse, was questioning if she maybe had a brain tumour. She was so afraid this was true that she couldn’t face going to the doctor and getting a diagnosis. The anxiety this fear was causing brought her to me.
Gaslighting is a psychological manipulation technique that seeks to make a person doubt their own perceptions, memories or understanding of reality. The term originates from the 1938 play. ‘Gas Light’, where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she is going insane by dimming the gas lights and denying that the light has changed when she points it out.
This form of manipulation can occur in various types of relationships, including romantic partnerships, friendships, family dynamics and even in workplace settings. The process of gaslighting often involves the gaslighter denying facts, dismissing the victim’s feelings or twisting information to confuse and destabilise the victim. Over time, the victim may begin to question their own judgment.
Gaslighting can manifest in several ways –the gaslighter may lie about past events, insist the victim is misremembering or minimise their feelings and experiences. They might also use projection, accusing the victim of being manipulative or deceitful, which can further confuse and deflect attention from the gaslighter’s own behaviour.
There is no one reason why a perpetrator chooses to gaslight but these include:
• CONTROL AND POWER: The primary motive is often to gain control over another person. This can be seen in abusive relationships where the abuser wants to maintain power.
• AVOIDING ACCOUNTABILITY:
Gaslighting is also used to deflect blame and avoid responsibility. By convincing the victim that their concerns are unfounded or exaggerated, the gaslighter can evade consequences for their behaviour, whether it’s infidelity, dishonesty, or other harmful actions.
SELF-PROTECTION: By invalidating someone else’s perspective, they can maintain a facade of being in the right or being morally superior.
to similar behaviour in their past, such as in their family. They may have learnt that this is a way to deal with conflicts or assert control.
The impact of gaslighting can be severe. Victims may experience anxiety, depression and a sense of isolation as they feel increasingly disconnected. They may also struggle with trusting their own thoughts, leading to a cycle of dependency on the gaslighter for validation. In some cases, the effects can be long-lasting, even after the gaslighting has ended, as the victim may continue to grapple with self-doubt.
Recognising gaslighting is the first step towards addressing it. Some signs that one might be a victim of gaslighting include frequently questioning one’s own memory, feeling confused about what is true or false and feeling like one is walking on eggshells around the gaslighter. It is also common for victims to feel a sense of dread when discussing certain topics, as they anticipate the gaslighter’s dismissive or hostile reaction. Ultimately, overcoming gaslighting involves reclaiming one’s sense of reality and self-worth.
If you believe you may be a victim, reach out to trusted family or friends. If like many victims of gaslighting you have been isolated from close relationships, get professional help. In the next issue I will talk about the tactics employed by perpetrators and steps you can take to recover. n
Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.
Free Glass of Prosecco for every Mum on Mother’s Day
Mother Day...
Sunday 30th March
Let us take care of the cooking this Mother’s Day.
Give mum a well-deserved break and treat her to a delicious Sunday roast with all the trimmings. All mums will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco to make her meal extra special!
Sunday lunch served from 12 - 5pm, full dinner menu available from 5 - 8.15pm.
Easter Weekend...
Make it a memorable Easter with family, fun, and fantastic food at The Gamekeeper’s Inn!
Sunday 20th April
Celebrate with a traditional homemade Sunday roast, served from 12 - 5pm.
Monday 21st April
Bring the little ones along for our Children’s Easter egg hunt at 1.30pm, followed by a disco, games, and buffet from 2 - 4.30pm.
£9.95 per child, pre-booking is essential.
light bulbs, plastics, glass and fabrics. Start with some quick wins to create space –for example flatten big cardboard boxes and take them out for recycling.
If there is a big job, break it down into smaller chunks – one room, one drawer, one cupboard, one shelf or one surface at a time. Once the decluttering is finished, give every kept item a designated home,
CLEAR OUT FOR SPRING
If it’s time for a spring clear out but you don’t know where to start a few tips could come in handy. Rachel Cordingley, from A Tidy Mind, gives useful advice on how to tackle tasks without becoming overwhelmed
Prepare with some bags or boxes at the ready to corral items by category. I use a system with colour coded bags for ‘keep’ and ‘let it go’. If you are letting an item go you need to consider if you are realistically going to sell it, or else donate or discard. Don’t forget to recycle items such as cardboard, paper, scrap metal, wood, electricals, batteries, ink cartridges,
where it should belong or where it will be used.
MY ULTIMATE TIP IS TO DO A LITTLE AND OFTEN, YOU WILL MAKE PROGRESS IN MANAGEABLE CHUNKS
As spring unfolds and hopefully the weather improves consider the garden, garage and shed.
My ultimate tip is do a little and often, you will make progress in manageable chunks. Once you start flexing your decluttering muscle, it may become easier to let things go and to gain some momentum. n
Therapist Amy Brown, of the Power of Your Mind in Skipton, describes the importance of being connected
Spring awakens a flurry of activity and collaboration in nature. Coupled swans begin building their nests together, meanwhile jackdaws and deer
form a symbiotic bond – jackdaws help deer shed their winter coats and, in return, they gain warm fur to line their nests.
As the weather warms, the hardworking honeybees embark on their collective efforts. Each bee has a vital role – gathering nectar, protecting the hive, or caring for the young. Though the queen leads, she depends on the efforts of drones and workers to sustain the hive. Their success as
a colony is built on cooperation, delegation and a deep reliance on one another.
This interconnectedness exists beyond the animal kingdom. Humans, too, benefit from mutual relationships. Our pets bring us companionship and stress relief, while we provide them with food, shelter and care. In every successful community, there’s an agreement, often unspoken –by working together, we all thrive.
Like a hive of honeybees, we are at our best when we connect. Each of us has unique strengths that can enhance both our own lives and the lives of those around us. Whether through communication, support, organisation, creativity, practicality or problem-solving, our contributions – whether big or small – really do matter.
LIKE A HIVE OF HONEYBEES, WE ARE AT OUR BEST WHEN WE CONNECT
Collaboration not only fosters a sense of purpose and belonging but also strengthens connections, boosts well-being and helps us to build something that is greater than ourselves. n
thepowerofyourmind.co.uk
SUPPORT WORLD CURLEW DAY
Ahead of World Curlew Day on 21st April, Victoria Benn, from Friends of the Dales, explains how a few simple actions could help to protect one of the area’s most vulnerable birds
In the last 25 years the UK has lost nearly 50 per cent of its breeding curlew – with Wales, Northern Ireland and southern lowland England now having almost no breeding curlew left at all. Yet, because the UK is home to about 25 per cent of the entire population of Eurasian curlew, a decline like this threatens curlew globally, making this beautiful, iconic bird one of the most pressing conservation priorities there is in the UK.
“The reasons we have lost so many curlew are complex,” explains Friends of the Dales executive director, Ann Shadrake. “Curlew and other big wading birds such as lapwings and oyster catchers need large undisturbed spaces with the right mix of grassland, moorland and wetter areas. Changes such as development, more people and dogs visiting the countryside, earlier cuts for silage and an increase in some natural predators have all taken their toll, meaning far fewer chicks now survive each year. If we are lucky enough
to see or hear plenty of curlew returning to the Dales in early spring, we might think all is well, but unfortunately it isn’t.”
EVEN ON AN INDIVIDUAL LEVEL THERE ARE SOME KEY ACTIONS WE CAN TAKE TO HELP IMPROVE CHICK SURVIVAL RATES DURING THE BREEDING SEASON FROM MARCH TO AUGUST
Curlew surveys now indicate that only about one in every four breeding pairs are managing to raise their chicks to maturity each year – a mathematical equation which basically means that not enough young birds are surviving to take the place of their
parents and grandparents. To stop the dire decline, 10,000 more chicks need to survive each year, a mammoth figure which requires collective action, otherwise even within our own lifetime, curlew could become extinct in the UK.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and other bodies and charities such as Curlew Action offer guidance and potentially funding to farmers and landowners to help with managing nest marking, cutting silage later and guidance about the best habitats for growing chicks.
Even on an individual level there are some key actions we can take to help improve chick survival rates during the breeding season from March to August. “Studies show that curlew are disturbed just by people walking on nearby footpaths,” explains Ann. “But if you have a dog with you the impact is even greater, as curlew see dogs as predators and so become agitated, therefore keeping dogs on a short lead will dramatically reduce the chance of frightening the birds off their nests. #PawsOnPaths is a great way to remember this!” n
Community groups wanting to actively raise awareness of curlew ahead of World Curlew Day on 21st April can download a Curlew Awareness Resource Pack from Friends of the Dales website.
Why did a Yorkshire hamlet change its name to the Scottish-sounding Ben Rhydding? Local historian Mike Dixon delves into the story of how a Victorian hydro gave a new identity to Wheatley
Iwas on a train from Leeds to Ilkley when I first saw the name Ben Rhydding. It was 1960 and I was on my first visit to my then girlfriend (now wife) by train. I ticked off the names of the stations as I got nearer to Ilkley. Then I read ‘Ben Rhydding’ and thought: “What the heck is that? A Scottish name in the Yorkshire Dales.”
Many years later I learnt it was not the original name and the change was the consequence of a so-called ‘hydropathic’ hotel being built above the hamlet of Wheatley.
The Old English (Anglo-Saxon) name comes from hwaete (wheat) and leah (a clearing in woodland). Wheatley features in numerous documents from the Middle Ages, usually in transactions with the Middleton family, the Lords of the Manor, but no remnants of
buildings survive from this period. During the 17th century stone-built houses appeared and a few, such as Wheatley Hall, remain standing today. There was little if any growth
THERE WAS LITTLE IF ANY GROWTH DURING THE 18TH AND EARLY 19TH CENTURY AND IN THE FIRST NATIONAL CENSUS, TAKEN IN 1841, WHEATLEY HAD JUST 43 INHABITANTS IN EIGHT DWELLINGS
during the 18th and early 19th century and in the first national census, taken in 1841, Wheatley had just 43 inhabitants in eight dwellings. But all this was set to change, for
three years later Ben Rhydding hydropathic hotel opened.
Hydropathy, or the ‘Cold Water Cure’, was a departure from the bath regimes practised in Harrogate and other spas of the day. It involved the application of ice-cold water by wet-sheets, baths, showers and douches followed by a vigorous rub-down ‘to restore the circulation’. This was allied to regular exercise and a plain, but nutritious, diet. It was rigorous, even bordering on brutal, but it was effective, at least according to its protagonists. The cold-water regime was developed during the 1820s by a self-trained practitioner, Vincent Priessnitz, in Gräfenberg, now called Jesenik, in the Czech Republic. News of the efficacy of his ‘cold water cure’ spread throughout Europe.
One person who read of its success was a Leeds banker, Thomas Bischoff, agent for the Bank of England and the first one outside London. Possibly seeking relief from his stressful job, he undertook the long journey to Silesia and placed himself under the
Wheatley Hall
care of Priessnitz. After several weeks of treatment he returned to Leeds rejuvenated and a confirmed disciple of the Priessnitz regime. Bischoff persuaded a small group of his business associates that Yorkshire needed a purpose-built hydropathic establishment and that Ilkley was the obvious location with its scenic setting, its pure water springs and its proximity to the moor for exercise. Convinced, the consortium set about purchasing land for their hotel.
Unfortunately, the Middletons had tight control of the land in Ilkley itself and it was not for sale. A search of neighbouring Wheatley, however, proved more fruitful. In 1843 the Leeds businessmen purchased 65 acres of land from William and Lister Bolling of Wheatley Hall. The land was situated on the slopes leading up to the Cow and Calf Rocks and contained two, allimportant, natural springs. The consortium, however, did not include Bischoff. As the plans developed and the likely expense became apparent, around £25,000 for the building alone, Biscoff dropped out. His share of the costs would have been around £4,500 (today equivalent to at least £500,000), way beyond the means of a bank employee. His departure from the group left Hamer Stansfeld, a textile merchant and the deputy Mayor of Leeds, to take the lead. Their plans laid, the group lost no time in appointing builders and the edifice began to take shape before the end of the year.
They planned to have the hydropathy and hotel as separate enterprises, in the same building but in distinct wings. The name
WHEN THE ‘HYDRO’ FIRST OPENED, GUESTS ARRIVED BY HORSE-DRAWN TRANSPORT, EITHER THEIR OWN PRIVATE BROUGHAMS OR IN CARRIAGES PROVIDED BY THE HOTEL FROM ITS OWN STABLES
One possible explanation was that a field on which the hydro was built was originally called the Bean Ridding. Ridding was derived from a word brought to Yorkshire by the
Vikings and meant a clearing. It was frequently used in the old field names, but fields were rarely named for a crop such as beans. Crops were subject to rotation, field names were permanent. Furthermore, no such name was found in the details of the 1843 land sale. It could be that the name was a complete contrivance. ‘Ben’ conjures up the romance of the Scottish mountains, while the alteration to the spelling of ‘ridding’ to ‘Rhydding’, brings it closer to its Norse roots, although this linguistic nicety is more likely to be by accident than by design. Whatever the true explanation, the village of Wheatley became dominated by the hydro/hotel, a destination for large numbers of water-patients and their families. When the hydro first opened, guests
‘The Wharfedale Hydropathic Establishment’ was a straightforward choice – but where did the Gaelic/Norse hybrid name ‘The Ben Rhydding Hotel’ originate?
Ben Rhydding
c1856
Ben Rhydding
c1862
arrived by horse-drawn transport, either their own private broughams or in carriages provided by the hotel from its own stables. Carriages sent from the hotel would meet guests at the railway stations in Bradford or Leeds or, for the shortest route, at Arthington on the Leeds-Harrogate line, but even that was an uncomfortable journey of over 11 miles. What was needed was a railway line up Wharfedale, but this was over twenty years away.
When Dr William Macleod took over as resident physician and tenant in 1847, he soon amalgamated the business under the banner of ‘The Ben Rhydding Hydropathic Establishment’. A charismatic figure,
IN LATER YEARS IT GREW FURTHER TO BECOME THE LARGEST HYDROPATHIC HOTEL IN THE UK AND ONE OF
THE LARGEST IN EUROPE
Macleod subsequently took over ownership and greatly expanded the hydro in 1859. In later years it grew further to become the largest hydropathic hotel in the UK and one of the largest in Europe.
Macleod soon became a leading advocate of a railway line through Wharfedale and in 1861 he saw his persistent lobbying bear fruit with parliamentary approval for a line linking Ilkley to Bradford and Leeds. In a rare instance of cooperation, the Midland and North Eastern Railways had come together to build a railway through Wharfedale and to operate the line from Otley to Ilkley as a joint railway. However, a station in Ilkley was not enough for Macleod. He argued with the railway companies that a station to serve Ben Rhydding was a necessity. When the line opened in 1865, Macleod had his station, albeit only a small wooden building and not without him agreeing to pay for the stationmaster and open the station privately. He ensured that the station was named not ‘Wheatley’, in
accordance with its geographical location, but ‘Ben Rhydding’, for the convenience of his guests.
Passengers bought tickets to Ben Rhydding and it was logical for them to conclude that the station served a community, not simply the hydro. In 1871 Macleod paid for a handsome stone building to replace the wooden one, arguing that it was more in keeping with the stature of the hydro.
The village prospered. It acquired shops and churches. Towards the end of the century, directories listed its streets under the heading ‘Ben Rhydding’ and in the early 20th century, picture postcards of the village were labelled ‘Ben Rhydding’. Only the OS maps seemed reluctant to accept the village’s
new identity. As late as the survey of 1950 it was labelled ‘Wheatley or Ben Rhydding’. As for the hydro, orthodox medicine displaced hydropathic ‘cures’ and it lost its appeal. In the 1920s and 30s it was rebranded as a ‘golf hotel’ but with little success. During the Second World War the building was requisitioned by the Wool Control Board for offices. After the war it failed to reopen as a hotel. It was put up for sale but did not attract any buyers. It lay abandoned and vandalised for some years before its eventual demolition in 1954-5. Years later, the site became a housing development containing a small remembrance of its former glories, a cul-de-sac named ‘Hydro Close’. Oh, how the mighty have fallen. n
Wheatley
Ben Rhydding Golf Hotel
Ben Rhydding Railway Station
EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN
EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES
EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN
EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN
EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES AT GILPIN
AT GILPIN
Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.
Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.
Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses.
Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.
Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.
Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.
Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.
Experience Michelin-starred dining at SOURCE, where passion and creativity converge to celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable journey of flavours, set against the backdrop of our stunning location. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings, SOURCE promises a experience to treasure.
Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.
Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.
Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.
Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.
Step into the vibrant world of Gilpin Spice, where the bold and fragrant tastes of Asia are reimagined. Designed for sharing, our dishes are packed with authentic flavours that transport you across continents. The relaxed, contemporary setting makes every visit a delightful blend of warmth, adventure, and exceptional cuisine.
Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk
Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.
Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.
Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.
Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk
Discover a world of exquisite culinary offerings at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, where dining is an art form. From the refined elegance of SOURCE, our Michelin-starred restaurant, to the vibrant flavours of pan-Asian cuisine at Gilpin Spice, every meal is a celebration of taste and creativity. For a quintessentially British indulgence, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Gilpin Lake House, complete with freshly baked treats and serene views of Knipe Tarn. Each dining experience is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, offering unforgettable moments to share with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed escape, the dining options at Gilpin promise to captivate your senses. Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk
Enjoy a timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the enchanting surroundings of Gilpin Lake House. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and freshly baked scones, all paired with fine loose-leaf teas. Overlooking the tranquil Knipe Tarn, this is the perfect way to unwind and embrace the elegance of a Lake District retreat.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk
Rules governing business
It is not possible for you to change the legislation governing your business – such as the Companies Act 2006, the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2000 and the Partnership Act 1890.
However, you can have your company rules (your Articles of Association), agreements between company owners/shareholders/ members (a shareholder agreement), or a partnership or Limited Liability Partnership Agreement, depending upon your business structure.
The Articles are company rules that are legally binding on the company in addition to all its shareholders. A shareholder agreement is a legal agreement between the shareholders. A partnership agreement/deed is an agreement between the partners and an LLP agreement is an agreement between the members of an LLP. Different kinds of agreements are needed for different types of business structure. If you’re a sole trader there is no need for an agreement because there is no co-owner.
Why bother? An investment or a cost?
‘We’re fine and it will never happen to me!’
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” Benjamin Franklin.
TRUSTED BY GENERATIONS OF BUSINESS OWNERS
Documented agreements between you and your fellow business owners are crucial. Keith Hardington, director, solicitor and head of corporate commercial law at Walker Foster explains why – and examines the kind of agreements you should have in place
It’s important to mitigate risks to you and your business, whatever its structure. Business owners are ultimately individuals and at some point, interests will not fully align. There is value in planning for growth, exits, succession, illness, and potential arguments regarding individual contributions, value and differing objectives.
A WRITTEN PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT COULD SAVE YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS FROM COSTS AND STRESS AND COULD EVEN SAVE THE BUSINESS
Shareholder Agreements
A shareholder agreement defines the rights and responsibilities of shareholders. Note that a shareholder has no right to be appointed a director and has no access to the day to day running of the business unless this is agreed or provided for. Clearly drafted shareholder agreements prevent disputes, avoiding or
mitigating the effect of legal battles. They protect minority shareholders from majority shareholders abusing their voting advantage. Transfer of shares can be controlled to maintain ownership structure and continuity. Fair valuation of shares can be included. Crucial decision-making processes can be clearly set out. Lenders and other stakeholders can take comfort that the company is owned and run by shareholders that are organised and a well-structured leadership.
Partnership Agreements
If your business is a partnership without a written partnership agreement, you are at the mercy of the Partnership Act 1890. You have no documented agreement to protect the partners and the business. Death triggers dissolution of the partnership. Why not provide for retirement and continuity instead? Set out profit shares, capital interests, provision for making crucial decisions, restrict leaving partners from competing, deal with retirement and succession. The Partnership Act 1890 will
otherwise dictate what happens. You are likely to be disappointed with the damaging consequences. A written partnership agreement could save you and your business from costs and stress and could even save the business. Written partnership agreements require careful consideration and drafting and tailoring to each business. Some are more complex than others. One size does not fit all.
Farming Partnership Agreements
Farming partnerships present challenges beyond other business partnerships. Many have evolved without documented agreements and this can result in arguments about assets, including land, buildings, machinery and livestock. Disputes arise regarding capital and profit and retirement and succession.
IT’S IMPORTANT TO MITIGATE RISKS TO YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS, WHATEVER ITS STRUCTURE
Death, divorce and disputes between partners (often family members holding expectations) regarding the farm lead to fall outs and even court proceedings. We work closely with the farm business accountant because tax advice is essential. Properly documenting a farming partnership addresses the many risks of not having a documented farming partnership agreement. They should be tailored to each farming partnership or farming family partnership. Without a documented farming partnership agreement, partners must rely upon the Partnership Act of 1890. This does not address your risks. A written farming partnership agreement is a valuable investment for the future and will likely save you from substantial costs and stress. It could even save the business.
LLP agreements
A Limited Liability Partnership has a separate legal status from its members but does not have a governing document like a company’s articles of association. Absent an LLP agreement, the default provisions in the LLP Act 2000 and Limited Liability Partnerships Regulations 2001 will apply.
Drafting an agreement is the best way of protecting the LLP and each member. Like other owner agreements, it can document responsibilities of ordinary members and designated members, capital investment and non-financial contributions, ownership and control, profit-sharing and remuneration, leave, pensions and other entitlements, admission, retirement, resignation and procedures for appointing new members, confidentiality and non-compete, key decision making and resolving internal disputes.
Other agreements
Contractual joint ventures and investment arrangements can also be properly recorded in agreements between owners and other stakeholders.
If you are considering issuing shares to an employee (outside the various employee share schemes available – another topic), you should protect you, them and the business, with a shareholder agreement.
Cross option agreements make provisions for the deceased shareholder’s shares to be purchased, often using the proceeds of life insurance, leaving the estate with the cash and aiding continuity and control for the surviving shareholder(s). It’s important that these are drafted as options and that they do not create a contractual obligation at the point of signing the agreement.
Next steps
If you co own a business or are considering doing so, whether partnership, LLP or company. Please plan for you and the owners as well as you do for your business and your clients and customers. There is great value in the thinking process to get you to a documented agreement and great value in the agreement itself and the greater clarity and protection
it provides. These are not simple documents and should be tailored in each case. I repeat, one size does not fit all.
We are passionate about helping business and business owners and our dedicated and experienced team of commercial, corporate, commercial property and employment lawyers are here to help. Get in touch. n
The Old White Horse Market Place, Settle BD24 9EF 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
walkerfoster.com
‘TERRIBLE KNITTERS’ & TRADITIONAL CRAFTS
Farfield Mill was once a booming centre of production in an area where knitting and textiles were a way of life. Now it is keeping traditional crafts and old stories alive as a community venue. Annette McIntyre found out more from the mill’s marketing and communications manager Clare Huggonson
They might sound like characters in a dark fairytale or a dystopian nightmare – but the ‘Terrible Knitters of Dent’ were very real.
Made famous all over Britain in a story by Robert Southey published in 1834, they weren’t being described as bad or frightening but rather ‘terribly good’. The true story focussed on Betty and Sally
Yewdale, who were sent to Dent in the 1760s, to learn how to knit. They were forced to knit as fast as they could, all day long – until eventually they ran away.
The tale shines a light on a phenomenon that was commonplace in the area at the height of the local wool industry – and this fascinating history is one of the many stories remembered at the former Sedbergh woollen mill.
“If you had visited Sedbergh, Garsdale or Dent 300 years ago, you would have seen people knitting wool everywhere,” Clare said.
IF YOU HAD VISITED SEDBERGH, GARSDALE OR DENT 300 YEARS AGO, YOU WOULD HAVE SEEN PEOPLE KNITTING WOOL EVERYWHERE
“They sat on their doorsteps knitting and they knitted as they walked to work in the fields. After dark, they met in each other’s houses and kept knitting, while they sang and told each other stories.
“Knitting helped support families alongside farming. Simple tasks such as carding could be easily done by children, who also learned to knit as skills were passed on from one generation to the next. Women in families would spin and knit, with men in the family knitting and weaving, fitting in the work around working in the fields.”
Farfield Mill’s own place in the history of the local textile trade and the area’s industrial development is significant. Built in around 1830, at the height of the Industrial Revolution, it was initially a water powered woollen mill.
It changed hands multiple times and business boomed as demand for woollen goods grew.
“As the 20th century progressed, the rise of synthetic textiles and mass production led to a decline in traditional textiles,” Clare said. “Farfield Mill, like many other mills, eventually ceased production. With the last cloth being woven in the 1990s.”
ENGAGING IN TRADITIONAL CRAFTS CAN ENHANCE INDIVIDUAL CREATIVITY, SATISFACTION AND MINDFULNESS
That could have been the end of the road for Farfield – but in 2002 it was reopened as a cultural venue after extensive restoration work and is now run by a charitable community benefit society.
“It was transformed into a space to celebrate both the history of the local textile industry and contemporary craftsmanship. The mill now hosts exhibitions, craft workshops and a visitor centre, showcasing the history of textile production in the region,” Clare explained.
“The mill also operates as a gallery and studio space for artists and craftspeople, emphasizing the area’s continuing connection to creative industries.
She added: “Today, Farfield Mill remains a key cultural and historical landmark in the Yorkshire Dales, offering insights into the area’s industrial heritage and its legacy in the textile industry. It also serves as an educational and creative hub, linking the past with present-day art and craftsmanship.”
Clare believes that in a fast-moving world it is important to keep traditional skills alive –arguing that not only do they support the local economy through crafts and tourism, they also foster community bonding and intergenerational learning, passing knowledge and techniques to younger generations.
“This is very much apparent from our demonstrators sharing their weaving and spinning skills with the public. Engaging in traditional crafts can enhance individual creativity, satisfaction and mindfulness. Preserving these skills contributes to a deeper understanding of our world, our past and promotes mindful creativity in a busy world.”
Farfield Mill is a free to all venue but the cost of keeping it open is significant.
“As with other cultural venues we rely on grants, donations and sales, which makes it challenging to secure consistent funding,
especially during the recent economic climate,” Clare said.
She added: “Going forward we will be aiming to attract a diverse audience, particularly younger generations, who may engage with art differently, requiring innovation in creative programming and interpretation.
“We have adapted to the new digital landscape of virtual exhibitions but still feel that ‘in real life’ experiences are still essential. Balancing a traditional gallery experience with interactive and engaging exhibits is crucial for attracting and retaining visitors.”
Fairfield Mill has a variety of events and activities planned for this year, including exhibitions, workshops, meet the maker events and its first textile competition. n
An exhibition of the finalists of the competition will be on display from 19th March until 1st June. Exhibitions taking place now (until 6th April) include one on handwoven tapestry – Heallreaf 5 Tapestry Exhibition – and another on natural remedies, Back to the Future of Medicine, with Nik Hunter-Dale.
Visit: farfieldmill.org to find out more.
Photography: Farfield Mill
ESTATE LIFE
Guy and Amber Hindley are continuing their ambitious conversion plans for Gisburne Park Estate. Here Guy outlines their latest news
January seems to have flown by and 2025 is well under way. Amber and I are extremely busy pulling together our planning application for the mansion house and grounds and hope to have that submitted by June this year. As you can imagine with it being a Grade 1 listed building, one of only eight in the Ribble Valley, it’s extremely complex and is taking longer than we would have hoped. This doesn’t change the goal which is to create one of the most prestigious private member
clubs / boutique hotel / wellness resorts in the UK.
At the beginning of the year we promoted Kai Jones to head chef of Hindelinis. Kai has been with us now for two years and is
into my professional life doesn’t only make chef-ing more enjoyable for both myself and the customer, but it also promotes sustainability and making the most of the world around us,” he said.
LATER THIS MONTH WE WILL BE LAUNCHING OUR OWN RANGE OF ORGANIC SIKA DEER VENISON BOXES WHICH ARE BEING PRODUCED AND PROCESSED ON THE ESTATE
a passionate foodie. “Growing up, my family really pushed eating seasonally, organic ingredients and the importance of foraging. Being able to carry that through
“Living and working on Gisburne Park Estate, It’s hard to not be inspired by the produce and wildlife that roams and grows here. Each week the estate rangers
supply me with organic wild sika deer venison and estate lamb. I have access to our own organic kitchen gardens and acres and acres of wild garlic, it really is a special place for a young chef to develop dishes. Each week the specials board is changing. This week, to start, I have torched mussels with fermented chilli and wild garlic focaccia followed by an 8oz organic wild venison loin, confit tomatoes, chimichurri, arugula and aspen fries special.”
Later this month we will be launching our own range of organic wild sika deer venison boxes which are being produced and processed on the estate.
On the 26th April we have our wedding showcase event from 11am to 3pm (see the advert on page 63). Our new sail tent arrives this month and will be on display. Guests will be able to experience our magical 10 acre wedding valley including the listed bridal house and the up stream ceremony island. n
We now have over 250,000 followers across our social media platforms – please keep a close eye on these for up to date information. We look forward to seeing you about on the estate.
Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300
weddings@gisburneparkestate.co.uk
gisburneparkestate.co.uk
@hindelinis
@ribblesdalepark
@gisburneparkestate
CYCLE THE DALES
Bike enthusiast Marek Szczeplek discusses the benefits of cycling, a sport which enhances fitness, mental wellbeing and promotes active travel
My passion for bikes started when I was seven. Wanting to respray my red BMX black, I snuck into my grandfather’s shed to strip it down. Impressed by my efforts he went on to teach me everything he knew about bike building and servicing. From that time on I was the boy who fixed everyone’s bikes! My passion became my profession, culminating in Aurelius Cycles which I opened in Gargrave 12 years ago.
Be it Park Rash, Fleet Moss or Buttertubs Pass, the Yorkshire Dales is full of awe-
inspiring views. Do those climbs on a bike as opposed to walking or driving up and you will appreciate them more than ever. The reason for this is chemical, as cycling is the number one way to build endorphins. Simply by pedalling hard your brain becomes loaded with them, enriching how you feel about what you see. Plus, you also get a great workout.
IF YOU ARE A BEGINNER WITH A REASONABLE LEVEL OF FITNESS THEN TRY A 45-MINUTE RIDE A COUPLE OF TIMES A WEEK
Any type of cycling is a good place to start –be that road, gravel, MTB or e biking. If getting out into the landscape appeals then gravel or MTB might be for you. Or, if you prefer putting in the miles, consider road or e biking. The
main thing is to do it and do it regularly. If you are a beginner with a reasonable level of fitness then try a 45-minute ride a couple of times a week. You don’t need to challenge yourself on the hills or with your speed, what matters is spinning your legs, developing confidence and stamina and building bike rides into your routine.
Barriers to success can simply be not knowing where to cycle or plugging skills gaps, which is important if you are wanting to cycle off-road. Joining a local club or going out with someone who can coach you will help with both of these things.
Kit is important for all cycling, with a well-fitting helmet top of the list. Pads and gloves are also vital for gravel and MTB. Take water, puncture repair kit, pump and spare inner tube on your rides and ensure you not only have a fully charged phone, but always tell someone your planned route. If you already have a bike there are essential checks to carry out before you set off, including checking the wheels are correctly attached, the chain is clean and lubed and tyres are pumped to the correct pressure for the environment you plan to cycle in. If you don’t have a bike then speak to an expert who will help match you with the correct type of bike for your physical stature and cycling aspirations.
Finally, remember the Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the UK’s biggest cycling events including the Etape du Dales sportive –supporting young people to get into cycle racing and the internationally renowned 3 Peaks Cyclo Cross. Maybe it’s time to become part of the action? n
aureliuscycles.com
Arrange
LET’S TAKE A RIDE…
This is a relatively short route with no big climbs, which takes you from the small town of Gargrave up into the southern Yorkshire Dales. The roads have little traffic and there are great views of Flasby and Barden Moors
Gargrave is a great starting point served by train from Leeds and Carlisle and has several free car parks. There are toilets, cafes and a small supermarket – as well as a bike mechanic and specialist tandem bike shop tucked away near the Leeds to Liverpool Canal.
The route takes you on a quiet exploration of the southern part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. There are quiet roads, great scenery and some stunning stone built villages and impressive buildings en route. Gargrave has the well-known cyclists’ café called the Dalesman and Hetton has the Michelin starred restaurant ‘The Angel at Hetton’.
GARGRAVE CIRCULAR
Start and finish: Gargrave village hall
Distance: 8 miles (14km)
Refreshments: Gargarve and Hetton
Toilets: Gargrave
Nearest train station: Gargrave
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
1. Gargrave village hall is close to a free car park and if you are coming from the train station is just on the other side of the A65 down the side of the Dalesman café. Facing the entrance to the village hall you need to take the small road to the left. This takes you over the Leeds to Liverpool canal, then you turn immediately right. At the end of this road turn left and follow this road out of Gargrave.
2. At the end of a straight section take care as you turn right, signed to Grassington. This road is followed through Flasby to Hetton. There are a few short climbs on the way and lovely views over the Dales.
3. When you arrive in Hetton you turn sharp left, almost doubling back on yourself, on the road signed to Winterburn and Airton. If you fancy a break the Angel Inn is 100m further up the road. This quiet road wends its way through the undulating countryside to reach a small hamlet called Winterburn.
4. The Yorkshire Dales Cycleway turns right here. Do not take this turn unless you want to extend the ride – carry straight on. This road shortly takes you past Friars Head, a lovely building originally used by Furness Abbey which controlled land nearby. You also pass close to St Helens Well, a natural spring whose waters were reputed to have healing properties.
5. At the T-junction turn left and follow this slightly busier road back to Gargrave passing Eshton Hall. n
For more routes visit: cyclethedales.org.uk
Photography: Christopher Werrett
The Saddle Room Restaurant & Accommodation
m Restaurant & Accommodation
e Sadd e Room Restaurant & Accommodation
The Saddle Room Restaurant & Accommodation
The Saddle Room Restaurant & Accommodation
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,The Saddle Room boasts two esteemed restaurants including White Goose Pizza Co serving traditional Neapolitan pizzas, 5* Bed & breakfast, luxury self catering cottages, and gorgeous event spaces for any & all occasions.
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,The Saddle Room boasts two esteemed restaurants including White Goose Pizza Co serving traditional Neapolitan pizzas, 5* Bed & breakfast, luxury self catering cottages, and gorgeous event spaces for any & all occasions.
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,The Saddle Room boasts two esteemed restaurants including White Goose Pizza Co serving traditional Neapolitan pizzas, 5* Bed & breakfast, luxury self catering cottages, and gorgeous event spaces for any & all occasions
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,The Saddle Room boasts two esteemed restaurants including White Goose Pizza Co serving traditional Neapolitan pizzas, 5* Bed & breakfast, luxury self catering cottages, and gorgeous event spaces for any & all occasions.
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales,The Saddle Room boasts two esteemed restaurants including White Goose Pizza Co serving traditional Neapolitan pizzas, 5* Bed & breakfast, luxury self catering cottages, and gorgeous event spaces for any & all occasions.
thesaddleroom.co.uk
thesaddleroom.co.uk
thesaddleroom.co.uk
thesaddleroom.co.uk
thesaddleroom.co.uk
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
RIDING HIGH
Ian Cation, manager at Escape Bike Shop, moved over from the North York Moors area to Ingleton. Ian has more than 25 years’ experience in the bike trade and is a keen, active rider. Here, he discusses the transformation happening to cycling in the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales offer a huge variety of options to people looking to venture out into the wide-open countryside. Since two-wheeled machines were invented, cyclists have taken to the winding lanes to discover the same places as travelling on foot or by car would allow.
But there has always been one, not so small obstacle, for all but the most energetic and determined... hills!
The Dales are not flat, in fact the Yorkshire Dales has some of the steepest, most challenging road and offroad climbs in the entire British Isles. The Tour De France didn’t choose Yorkshire for an opening stage purely based on the locals welcoming hospitality
and quaint pubs after all. Because of this, some of the most stunning routes have until recently remained the domain of only the most determined rider.
Well things have changed and in recent years cycling has had something of a recent revolution in the form of E-Bikes.
THERE IS NOW A REAL SHIFT TO PROVIDE ATTRACTIVE, ACCESSIBLE AND MOST IMPORTANTLY ENJOYABLE CYCLING POSSIBILITIES TO EVERY CYCLIST NO MATTER YOUR FITNESS LEVEL
Not to be confused with electric motorbikes or sometimes questionable online offerings of cobbled together washing machine motors on junk bicycle shaped objects, but proper quality bicycles from the world’s top brands. With
even the likes of Bosch and Porsche providing their electric motor technology know-how.
The cycle industry for a long time focused its main efforts towards the sporting or die-hard rider and treated the recreational and leisure cyclist as a little bit of an afterthought.
There is now a real shift to provide attractive, accessible and most importantly enjoyable cycling possibilities to every cyclist no matter your fitness level.
Just as riding with a tail wind makes progress so much easier, so can an E-Bike with its motor assisting the pedalling efforts of the rider.
Tackling hilly terrain, taming a strong head wind or conquering a rough track can now be enjoyable when ridden at the pace and level of excursion chosen by the rider.
Now all of a sudden, Park Rash heading out of Kettlewell can be ridden with a smile not a grimace. The Settle loop, taking you up to Malham Tarn via the world famous Malham Cove, and once dismissed as way too tough, can be enjoyed on a ride out.
Bicycles truly have become the transport for all, bringing the spectacular, and now accessible, beautiful Yorkshire Dales into everyone’s reach.
If you are contemplating experiencing what an E-Bike can provide or perhaps you already have taken the plunge, Escape Bike Shop, situated on the A65 just a mile or so north of Ingleton, is primed ready to assist with all your needs.
Our friendly expert advice comes with a wealth of knowledge to help with every aspect of cycling but with a particular focus on leisure and mountain E-Bikes.
With a great selection of quality brands in stock, offering servicing backup and summer months’ hire, we are here to talk to. n
Escape Bike Shop Kirksteads Westhouse
Ingleton LA6 3NJ 01524 241226
sales@escapebikeshop.com escapebikeshop.com
OVER HILL AND DALE
Keen cyclists will enjoy this route which is arguably one of the most hidden gems of a cycling loop in the Yorkshire Dales
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
1. Starting in the village of Ingleton, you can set off from the village community center car park. Head out of the village by rolling down the hill towards the stone bridge over the river and head north underneath the old viaduct towards Thornton in Lonsdale.
2. Turn left in Thornton at the corner of the church and start climbing up the lane towards Kingsdale. Kingsdale is a spectacular wideopen valley between the Whernside and Gragareth mountains. The single track lane winds up the gated single track road with a fantastic opportunity to visit Yordas Cave just before Kingsdale Head Farm.
3. At the crest of Kingsdale, the panoramic vista looking out over Dentdale and Deepdale will take the breath away of anyone with an appreciation for the Yorkshire countryside.
4. Start the steep descent down into Dentdale, taking care to slow for the gates on the winding
road down the side of the fell.
5. Pedal down the narrow lane towards Dent and take a right at the road junction, this will head you along the valley bottom with the river down to your left to the small hamlet of Cowgill where you will pass the turn for Dent Station which is positioned high above on Dent Fell.
6. Carry along the valley road passing the Artengill Viaduct at Stone House and then
start climbing up towards Newby Head passing underneath the Dent Head Viaduct.
7. Joining the B6255 Hawes to Ingleton Road, turn right and roll down the valley with the view of Ingleborough growing in your sight. After approximately three miles, the world famous Ribblehead Viaduct will loom into view at the head of the valley down to Ingleton.
8. After a stop at the Station Inn perhaps, carry on along the main road for another mile or so, dropping down the hill to a right hand turn into Chapel Le Dale.
9. Proceed along the cattle gridded, quiet back lane with Twisleton Scar towering to your right and the imposing heights of Ingleborough across to your left. Start descending down the bank through the trees back into Ingleton arriving back at the stone bridge you first crossed as you set off on your loop.
10. Once back in the village, pay a visit to one of the great cafes or local pubs to replenish your energy. n
If you need any cycle servicing or even a summertime bike hire, give Escape Bike Shop a call on 01524 241226 or visit: escapebikeshop.com
LOCAL EXPERTS IN WORLDWIDE CRUISES
Ben Hopkins talks to Juliet Archer, Managing Director of Blue Water Holidays about the open-door approach to booking the perfect cruising holiday
For Juliet Archer and her small team of cruise experts, a personalised approach is key to planning the ultimate cruising or boating holiday.
“Just pick up the phone and have a chat,” she says from her office overlooking the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in Skipton. “We don’t rush people. We invite customers to come in, have a coffee and talk with us about what suits them.”
Specialising in river, luxury and small ship cruises since 2002 Blue Water Holidays have earned their reputation as local experts in worldwide cruises, tailoring bespoke advice to individual needs. While the choice may seem daunting to some, Juliet is keen to assure potential clients there is something for everyone, including first timers unsure of how to find the cruise that suits them best.
“We sell to customers all over the world but really enjoy working with our local
customers. A lot of people in this area don’t want to have to start their holiday from London or Southampton, so we can arrange regional flights, or a cruise departing from the nearest port, to make holiday planning as relaxing and stress-free as the holiday itself!”
You can take a week or two-week long cruise exploring the diverse rivers of Europe, the magnificent fjords of Norway, the sun-drenched French Riviera or the beautiful Greek Islands, disembarking to discover local life during the day while enjoying a full package of food, drink and entertainment onboard. The cruise of a lifetime can start from as little as £599 per person.
WHILE THE CHOICE OF WHERE TO GO MAY SEEM OVERWHELMING, ONCE ON BOARD EVERYTHING IS TAKEN CARE OF
Established long-standing and trusted links with over 40 different cruise lines around the world means Blue Water Holidays has access to exclusive discounts and deals.
For those looking to go further afield the choice is almost limitless. It could be a luxury cruise down the Mekong River in Vietnam or setting sail for the Caribbean; discovering the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands; an African
Safari Cruise or an ice-breaking adventure to the North Pole.
While the choice of where to go may seem overwhelming, once on board everything is taken care of. “You unpack once and from then on you can do as much or as little as you choose,” says Juliet. Some enjoy the solitude and tranquillity offered by the open seas while others prefer to immerse themselves in social activities both on board and on land.
Those looking for something more adventurous might choose an exciting expedition cruise to Antarctica. Wildlife experts will take guests out on zodiac dinghies, trekking on glaciers or kayaking through icy waters and catching sight of endemic wildlife. Back on board the enchanted adventurers can enjoy five-star luxury and world class cuisine.
And to think, it all begins with a coffee and chat in an office overlooking the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Skipton! n
Blue Water Holidays
Bowers Wharf, Sackville Street Skipton BD23 2PD 01756 706500 bluewaterholidays.com
Venice and the Jewels of Veneto
Uncover the enchanted beauty and breathtaking history of Venice and Northern Italy on this luxury, all-inclusive 7-night cruise holiday, with return direct flights from Manchester
Enjoy this ultimate Venetian vacation with your stay onboard this luxurious floating boutique hotel. Not only will you benefit from an enviable location in Venice, you’ll also find that your hotel transports you to hidden gem towns nearby.
Explore the waterfront shops, colourful facades and peaceful canals unique to Burano, Murano and Torcello on unique included guided excursions. Explore the medieval town of Padua or renaissance Vicenza, and Chioggia, described as Venice in miniature. Savour the spectacular wine and cuisine of this atmospheric region every step of the way.
Day 1: Manchester – Venice
Fly direct from Manchester to Venice and transfer to your boutique river cruise ship. Unpack, relax and enjoy your first evening on the Venetian Lagoon.
Day 2: Venice
With your early morning visit to the Doge’s Palace, you’ll be able to marvel at the estate in total peace. Cap the day off with a private once-in-a-lifetime experience at an after-hours lighting ceremony inside St Mark’s Basilica without the crowds.
Day 3: Padua or Vicenza, Burano
Start your morning in one of two of the Veneto region’s UNESCO World Heritage cities, Vicenza or Padua. In the afternoon, enjoy scenic sailing across the lagoon towards Mazzorbo and Burano. Burano’s brightly painted fishermen’s cottages are an artist’s dream - hot pink, chartreuse, orange and lemon yellow.
Day 4: Torcello, Murano
Spend the day exploring the northern lagoon of Venice and its captivating islands. Visit Torcello’s famous basilica with an art historian, then in the afternoon see the renowned glassblowing artisans of Murano at work.
Day 5: Chioggia
Admire the charms of coastal Chioggia, or visit Dominio di Bagnoli, one of the oldest wine-producing properties in Europe, for a private tasting.
Day 6: Po Delta or Castello del Catajo
Explore the Po Delta where the Po River and the Adriatic Sea meet, or set off for the Euganean hills to discover one of Europe’s most majestic castles, Castello del Catajo.
Day 7: Venice
Explore Venice on a guided tour or see how Venetian Carnival masks are created at one of the top handmade mask ateliers.
Day 8: Venice – Manchester
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return direct flight to Manchester.
• Direct return flights from Manchester
• Overseas transfers between airport and ship
• 7-night all-inclusive cruise in an en-suite riverview stateroom on luxury 130-passenger boutique river cruise ship La Venezia
• 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners onboard in choice of dining venues, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions and Gala Dinners
• Free Wi-Fi
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wines, beer, spirits, speciality coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
• Choice of included excursions, all fully guided by English-speaking local experts
• All tips, gratuities and port taxes
THE VANISHING CURLEW
It is almost spring. As the chill of winter recedes, life returns to the soil. New growth appears beneath our feet, snowdrops and crocuses giving way to taller companions. As daffodils bring the promise of warmer days, Alan Veale looks at the season ahead.
What does the future hold for a unique Dales’ resident?
Dawn breaks earlier each day. A miscellany of nests is under construction in trees and hedgerows. Throughout the Dales in particular, some lie hidden on the ground. These are known as scrapes and they are built by a bird with a distinctive, bubbling call. Yes, the curlews are back in their breeding grounds.
And yet that particular sound, such a familiar part of our grasslands, is diminishing.
That remarkable bird, with the speckled plumage and long curved bill, is becoming as scarce as – well, curlew eggs.
Listen. What do you hear? Beneath whatever birdsong you may distinguish, there is a rumbling in the undergrowth. Probably farm or industrial machinery, working on yet another human-led demand for resources we cannot live without. Or, oddly enough, it could indicate a conscious effort to protect our environment, working in harmony with nature, exploring new ways to help us live alongside birds and mammals –without threatening their (or our) future. Yes, there is reason for optimism. But before we look at the good bits, here’s what the curlew is up against. According to the RSPB: “Intensive farming practices, including drainage and reseeding, are likely to
Photography: Rodney Dinnen
Photography: Clapham Curlew Cluster
have contributed to declines in breeding populations, as has the turning of areas of moorlands into forest. Together, these activities are having a huge impact on curlew populations. Curlew numbers are also impacted by nest predators, mainly foxes, who take eggs, chicks and adult birds.”
According to The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust: “There is simply too much predation for the curlew population to sustain.”
Like any species on earth, avoiding extinction demands successful breeding. While adult curlews often live between eight and 15 years, a normal breeding season will only result in an average of three eggs –with a bleak chance of all surviving. The UK population has halved over the last 30 years, causing them to be added to the Red List on the UK Conservation Status Report (source, RSPB). South of the Pennines,
in January 2024, only 500 breeding pairs remained. Looking at the broader perspective, those curlews nesting in Britain make up two thirds of Europe’s entire population, so if action is not taken here then that familiar bubbling call could soon vanish altogether. But let’s cast gloom aside!
At the far western edge of the Dales, I found one of three regional groups trying to protect curlew numbers. The Clapham Sustainability Group formed their own ‘Curlew Cluster’ in March 2022, following meetings between farmers, landowners and the RSPB. They secured a grant from Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust in 2023, providing a nest protection payment for farmers to leave an acre uncut around nests when due to be cut for silage. The grant also provided cameras to improve data collection
THOSE CURLEWS NESTING IN BRITAIN MAKE UP TWO THIRDS OF EUROPE’S ENTIRE POPULATION, SO IF ACTION IS NOT TAKEN HERE, THEN THAT FAMILIAR BUBBLING CALL COULD SOON VANISH ALTOGETHER
and funded educational work carried out by three artists, which involved a farm visit with two local primary schools to learn about curlews. That resulted in around 60 children creating paintings, poems and a stunning felted quilt. Their work contributed to the creation of the ‘Cry of the Curlew’ exhibition at the Dales Countryside Museum in February 2024. That exhibition has been displayed across the Dales and even as far afield as Kendal Museum. It can now be seen at The Folly in Settle from February to June 2025. The display includes a short film giving farmers the opportunity to have their voices
heard (search June Gersten Roberts and Cry of the Curlew on YouTube).
The cluster has increased every year and there are now 15 farms and 20 volunteers involved. Farmers and landowners are vital for the group. Those like Colin Price of Long Bank Farm near Clapham, working organically, are better placed to adjust their seasonal work. He will only cut his fields at the start of July – after the breeding season. But others are under pressure to produce silage much earlier, which is why financial help will ensure nesting areas are protected. Closer monitoring of those sites is under way, so that action can also be taken to help guard nests against predators.
THE CLUSTER HAS INCREASED EVERY YEAR AND THERE ARE NOW 15 FARMS AND 20 VOLUNTEERS INVOLVED
Remember the rumbling in the undergrowth? That may stem from those building electric fences around scrapes or setting up cameras to keep an eye on them. It’s good to know that, in the Dales where they are more numerous, positive progress is helping to stop curlews from disappearing into the sunset. n
ydmt.org curlewaction.org
Photography: John Dawson
Photography: Clapham Curlew Cluster
Photography: Clapham Curlew Cluster
EDUCATION NEWS
FOREST SCHOOL
Wharfedale Montessori School has announced the return of its public Forest School sessions. Woodland Explorers will run on Tuesdays between 1pm and 3pm, from 11th March whatever the weather. A spokesperson said: “Come and join WMS children in the woodland at school, located in Strid Wood, on the Bolton Abbey Estate. Parking can be found in the Strid Wood car park in the allocated school parking bay. A short walk down the woodland trail into Strid Wood will bring you to the school.”
The cost of £4 per child includes a campfire snack. wharfedalemontessori.co.uk
SIXTH FORM SUCCESS
Ashville pupils achieved the best A Level results in Harrogate (The Sunday Times, 2024). Current Upper Sixth pupils have now secured an exciting and varied range of university offers from prestigious institutions in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. A spokesperson said: “From Oxford and Cambridge and the Ivy League to The Royal Northern College of Music, the offers are impressive. These achievements highlight the advantages of the ‘new’ Ashville where the Sixth Form years provide a unique pre-university experience, enabling pupils to build future-ready skills for a rapidly changing world.”
OUTSTANDING PLAYER
Ellie Kildunne has become World Rugby’s Women’s Player of the Year. Ellie, a former pupil of Woodhouse Grove, in Apperley Bridge, was also recently crowned the 2024 Women’s Six Nations Player of the Tournament and represented Team GB at the Paris Olympics. A school spokesperson said: “Ellie is still a regular visitor at The Grove, leading workshops for students, helping with training sessions, advising our elite athletes in areas such as time management and mental and physical preparation and was our guest speaker at Prize Day 2023. Ellie continues to inspire young Grovians to excel.”
AWARD-WINNING SCHOOLS
Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate are celebrating after one of their senior schools, QE Faculty, was awarded the prestigious title of ISA Senior School of the Year 2024 for its modern, flexible curriculum of BTECs, A Levels and elite programmes for sports and the arts. In addition, QE College won the Sunday Times Parent Power Award for Academic Performance in the North of England for a fourth year in a row after the students achieved 99 per cent A*-B at A Level, 74 per cent Distinction in BTECS and 87* Grades 7-9 in GCSEs.
RUGBY VICTORY
The Stonyhurst College 1st XV Rugby Squad has secured a spot in the Lancashire Schools Cup Finals for the second consecutive year after a “stunning” semi-final victory against Scarisbrick Hall School. A school spokesperson said: “Their skill and unity on the pitch were outstanding, following in the footsteps of last year’s champions. This remarkable achievement reflects the strength and commitment that define Stonyhurst rugby, a program built on teamwork, resilience and a deep commitment to excellence. The squad continues to represent the values of the school, both on and off the field, with exceptional sportsmanship.”
CHEF COMPETITION
Young chefs produced their finest cuisine when they were put through their paces in an annual competition. The final of the Young Chef of the Year competition, organised by Skipton Rotary Club, took place at Craven College. Eight contestants took part from Skipton Academy, Settle College, Ermysteds, Upper Wharfedale, Brooklands and home education. Their culinary creations were judged by Bruce Elsworth from Elsworth at the Mill and Chris Gregson from The Tempest Arms. In first place was Sam Craig from Settle College, second place went to Evie Collins from Brooklands School and third place went to Athelstan Kelsey from Upper Wharfedale School.
Photography:
Emma Taylor, Skipton Rotary
Joseph Joseph win 14 Red Dot Awards since 2008
Product Designer (Dyson)
Our proudest achievement since leaving Stonyhurst has been building Joseph Joseph, designing and developing our own products. Over 20 years, we’ve grown the business to employ over 250 staff and operate in 104 markets worldwide. Richard Joseph “
Open Day 8th March 2025 stonyhurst.ac.uk/sixthform
Cambridge University (MA)
Joseph Joseph win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise
Co-Founder (Joseph Joseph)
Stonyhurst (Alumnus 1994) Loughborough University
SIXTH FORM Co-ed 16-18 | Boarding & Day | Jesuit, Catholic School
BRIGHT FUTURES
At Stonyhurst College, practical and proactive support is consistently available for pupils exploring future opportunities
Taking a unique approach, Stonyhurst College offers a totally tailored curriculum for each Higher Line (Sixth Form) pupil, drawing on their individual interests and academic strengths.
Awarded the Quality in Careers Standard, Stonyhurst’s Careers Department has forged a reputation for unrivalled excellence. Higher Line pupils are provided with numerous and diverse opportunities to explore potential careers, while being continually supported by a team dedicated to preparing them for a life that reflects the school’s Jesuit ethos of ‘creating men and women for others’.
“At Stonyhurst we take a very holistic approach to education,” explains Lorraine Wright, Deputy Head Academic.
“We shape individuals who can go into
WE FIND A SOLUTION THAT BRINGS OUT THE STRENGTHS OF EACH INDIVIDUAL CHILD
the world and make a positive impact. It’s not just about academia and exams. While pupils are in a position of privilege, they know they have a duty to help others.”
Unlike most schools which only offer A level qualifications, Sixth Form pupils at Stonyhurst have the choice of three distinct pathways. Along with traditional A levels, the College offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) plus the Cambridge Technical Diploma (CTEC) – providing pupils with the flexibility to choose the academic journey that best fits their career goals and aspirations.
“We don’t have a stringent approach to timetabling. Unlike other schools we can be much more flexible when it comes to considering what each pupil is capable of and how we can support them. It’s not a one size fits all approach.”
The opportunity to study for the IB Diploma has proved immensely popular, with approximately half of Higher Line pupils opting for this internationally-recognised academic qualification.
“The IBDP is for intellectually agile pupils as they have to study six subjects. If pupils want to go on to study or work abroad it’s an
excellent and highly respected qualification, both in the UK and across the globe.”
Pupils also have the option to pursue the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) that helps boost their UCAS points, enhancing university applications.
While A levels and the IB Diploma are academically focused, the Cambridge Technical Diploma combines coursework and exams to suit different learning styles: “It offers pupils variety, allowing them to add an A level subject to the programme if they wish to.
“Often GCSE results alone determine a pupil’s academic pathway and some pupils just aren’t suited to exams. So, at Stonyhurst, we offer a bespoke approach to the curriculum and aim to find a solution that brings out the strengths of each individual child – our varied curriculum reflects this.”
Stonyhurst is ranked in the top 25 per cent of schools and colleges for value-added progress, earning the prestigious Added Value Award. It is also ranked among the Top 30 IB Schools in the UK, reflecting its dedication to academic excellence and global readiness.
While studying at Stonyhurst, Higher Line pupils also have access to a first-class Careers Department that has seen pupils progress to some of the world’s top universities and gain prestigious apprenticeships.
Their career journey starts in Year 7, with Year 9 pupils guided in selecting their GCSE subjects, while Year 10 introduces a more in-depth approach to career education.
As they progress, pupils embark on their journey with Unifrog, a successful global online platform where they can build their CV, explore leading international universities and degree courses, express their academic, sporting, and cultural interests, and develop their UCAS personal statement.
The Stonyhurst Careers Department also provides pupils with employability workshops, work experience and inspiring talks from leading figures – including Stonyhurst alumnus and World Cup-winning England rugby player Kyran Bracken.
“Former Stonyhurst pupils play a huge part in our Career’s Department,” says the
“We recently invited speakers who advised predominantly IB pupils, about studying in Europe and the US. We also have Old Stonyhurst (OS) speakers advising on apprenticeships from a whole host of companies including Rolls Royce, Bentley and BAE.”
From Year 11, pupils can access various societies, including the Medical Society, Law Society and a society dedicated to preparing for and gaining access to Oxford and Cambridge University: “If pupils have medicine, veterinary or dentistry interests they are advised on what they need to be doing in terms of their university applications and they are given advice on UCAS preparation and mock interviews.
“Our Law Society recently hosted an alumnus studying law at university and a talk by an international lawyer who joined via Zoom from Singapore.”
Potential Oxbridge pupils at Stonyhurst benefit from a range of opportunities, including advice on ‘super-curricular’ reading lists and UCAS preparation. One pupil, passionate about Norse and Anglo Saxon history, was granted access to the College’s unique historic collections, while a music pupil is currently leading the school choir. “To succeed in applications to such prestigious universities, this is what’s expected. Every potential Oxbridge pupil receives comprehensive support with applications, interviews and extracurricular activities. It’s a significant process, but it works.”
Similarly, all prospective university and degree apprenticeship pupils receive
practical support with applications, interview preparation and CVs.
As an independent international boarding school, Stonyhurst College serves pupils from around the world and its Higher Line curriculum reflects this diversity.
Looking to the future the College is set to launch an International Language School giving overseas pupils a unique opportunity to improve their English before they begin their journey at Stonyhurst: “It’s a very exciting development and one that we will be promoting all over the world.” n
Stonyhurst College Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073
ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk stonyhurst.ac.uk
College’s Head of Careers Emily Nolan.
MEET THE HEAD
Jeremy Clarke was appointed head of Wharfedale Montessori in September 2024. He took some time out to chat to Katie Hammond
How did your involvement with the Montessori model come about?
In the early 2000s, I began working at Gorton Mount Primary, a state school in East Manchester. It was situated in an area of significant economic and social deprivation. The school had just come out of special measures and had just appointed its seventh head in six years.
We found that the children were often lacking in the skills needed to become independent learners, to regulate their emotions and to concentrate for any length of time. The headteacher, Carol Powell, saw that we required a fresh approach to be able to give the children what they needed, so she looked to Montessori. Having begun her education journey in a similarly deprived area of Rome, her approach works by looking at the child’s immediate needs and how to meet them. By removing the pressures of a set curriculum and getting to know the child on a deeper level, we were able to help the children grow emotionally, socially and because of this, academically.
Tell us more about your early career and any milestones or defining moments?
Spending time in nature has always been a big part of my life and it is something I want to share with children. The freedom, the
SPENDING TIME IN NATURE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A BIG PART OF MY LIFE AND IT IS SOMETHING I WANT TO SHARE WITH CHILDREN
beauty, the challenge – they are all aspects I have tried to integrate into my educational approach. Sometimes life presents new opportunities, and working at an inner-city school in Manchester certainly reduced my access to ‘big’ nature. I did love going on residential trips with the older children to the Lake District and having a twinge of
jealousy at their genuine awe and wonder as they experienced grand vistas and day long mountain walks for the first time.
Much more humbling perhaps, was the time I spent with a four-year-old refugee from a war zone. He joined my class mid-year and did not speak for around twelve weeks. Every day he would hold my hand or hook his fingers into my belt loop, gradually building up to just standing next to me, or following me around the classroom. One day, after almost two months, he left my side and began working and playing with the other children as if it was something he had always done. It has always served as a lesson in humility, to remind me of the power of security we can offer in a young child’s life and of the child’s immense power of observation.
What excites you moving forward?
The joy of working in a school is that every day is exciting. Children are unpredictable, but in such new, innocent, honest and purposeful ways that they can amaze and inspire on a daily basis. As educators we are lucky to be able to spend time with them and witness this growth. As Maria Montessori said, the child is both the hope and the promise of humanity. We are helping children to create a better world – we owe it to them and to ourselves. n
In an age where many corporate organisations are consolidating their work and services away from their traditional community roots, McGarry & Co is bucking the trend. Andew Vaux talked to senior partner Michael McGarry about his commitment to the Yorkshire Dales and the towns and villages on the Pennine Ridge
It is clear from Michael McGarry that he has a passion and drive to provide a trusted and friendly legal service to his clients where it matters most – in their local community.
Michael explained: “It is simply about trying to keep services local. Most people do not want to have to travel an hour or more to see their solicitors, perhaps just to sign a document.
“It is far easier to have someone you know and who understands your circumstances on the ground. Most of our work is not simply transactional, it is not a case that our clients simply use us for one job and then go elsewhere. We build up longstanding relationships and that is what works. I have many clients who I was dealing with in the 1980s and I am still dealing with them and perhaps now their children and grandchildren.”
Michael likened his business to a chauffeur service, chauffeuring his clients throughout the course of their life rather than being a taxi from A to B.
Over the last 37 years Michael has devoted himself to building up a community based legal firm. McGarry has 21 qualified lawyers based in towns including Grassington, Hawes, Sedbergh, Leyburn and Barnard Castle and also at the Darlington Farmers Auction Mart –and a reputation built on excellent levels of service where the client is the constant focus of attention.
McGarry & Co are members of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners, the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly Solicitors for the Elderly) and the Agricultural Law Association.
Michael is also a panel deputy for the Court of Protection, looking after vulnerable members of the community who lack mental capacity or whose families are in dispute. The firm provides a wide variety of services including
private clients, client law (wills, probate and trusts), family law, commercial and residential property conveyancing as well as general law and litigation, with an emphasis particularly on rural issues.
Michael remembered one of his first bosses way back in the 1980s who always said to him: “You won’t be rich working in the countryside but you will earn a good living and you will have a nice life if you look after your clients.” Michael says that that is what he aspires to.
WE BUILD UP LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIPS AND THAT IS WHAT WORKS
For a number of years Michael was based in Hawes. With changes within the firm in which he was a partner he decamped back to Barnard Castle, but he was spending a lot of time going backwards and forwards into Wensleydale to see clients, ultimately he bought back the office from his partner to re-establish a base in Wensleydale. It may not be understood but it is really very difficult employing solicitors in rural areas. It was explained that certainly many of the younger solicitors want the thrills of working in Leeds, York or possibly even Harrogate whereas Sedbergh, Grassington, Leyburn and Hawes seem fairly sleepy, but Michael explained that there is plenty of really good quality work with an excellent quality of life. One of his worries has been about acquiring offices in Sedbergh and Grassington – as the existing partners in those firms were coming towards retirement and if the firms shut down Sedbergh and Grassington would be left without a local Lawyer on the ground. The work would then move to Kendal or possibly Skipton or further afield.
So how does McGarry & Co look at the way forward? Michael said he wants to keep services local and maintain relationships with all the clients that have been built up over the years with the various different solicitors in the different offices. Sometimes the evidence of the relationship is by what comes through the door. Often a loaf of bread from a baker, a bunch of flowers, a piece of beef or pork or half a dozen eggs but importantly little messages of thanks. Whilst I was speaking to Michael he had received a text from a client who had had a small problem which had been resolved satisfactorily and the message read: “Many thanks for your support and advice this morning. I am so lucky to have an excellent solicitor and a good friend.”
Messages like that make everything worthwhile. There are however disadvantages which might not have been appreciated. Michael explains that he and a number of his solicitors struggle to walk down the street for a sandwich at lunchtime and get back in reasonable time because of the people they bump into who want to chat. He said: “Yes we do things differently now to how we did them 30 years ago. On a legal level we are looking at things like AI, which would have been unthinkable, but the underlying ethos and principles by which we operate have not changed. We will continue providing a friendly, personal service with expert knowledge to our clients and supporting them in their needs for the years to come.”
Michael and other members of the firm are also involved in local organisations and charities. Michael is Vice Chairman of the Upper Dales Community Partnership in Wensleydale, which is quite well known for its activities, owning and running the local filling station in Hawes, operating the Little White Bus and Little White Car, operating the post office, library and other services. In Teesdale Michael is Chairman of the Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Service providing a vital service to the local agricultural and rural community. What shines through is that Michael and his team have a passion. Michael might be glossing things a little but he did say that never once in 37 years has he got out of bed in the morning thinking: “Do I really have to go into the office today?”
There is no doubt that McGarry & Co are busy but they are bucking the trend in how they practice for the benefit of their clients. n
mbmcgarry.co.uk
BUSINESS MATTERS
The Dales and surrounding area are home to a wide variety of thriving businesses. Here is the latest news from just some of them. If you have any Business Matters news contact: annette.mcintyre@live-magazines.co.uk
REFURBISHMENT FOR VICTORIAN PUB
A pub which has served its community for more than 160 years is welcoming back customers after a three-month refurbishment.
The Wheatley Arms in Ben Rhydding first opened in 1863 and has built a strong reputation for its warm welcome and delicious food.
In 2024 the beautiful stone built pub, which is just minutes away from Ilkley, underwent a major refurbishment, re-opening its doors on 20th November. The 190 capacity pub has 12 bedrooms for guests and has a decor which combines the contemporary with a traditional, warm atmosphere.
With a strong reputation for good quality food it is open seven days a week serving brunch, lunch and dinner. Its new menu includes pub classics such as fish and chips, lamb hotpot and steak and ale pie. Its mouth-watering cuisine also includes prosciutto and burrata bruschetta, black pollack loin served with chorizo and mixed bean cassoulet.
DREAM GARDENS IN ILKLEY
A Yorkshire company which aims to create ‘dream gardens’ is opening its new centre in Ilkley in March. Outdoor Living Gardens, which already has offices in Harrogate and Skipton, is also opening at 34 Leeds Road, Ilkley.
A spokesperson said: “Outdoor Living Gardens is excited to open its first showroom in Ilkley. We’re dedicated to delivering outstanding garden design and build services, from the first consultation to aftercare. Our team shares a passion for creating stunning outdoor spaces, ensuring a seamless experience for every client. Visit us and see how we can bring your dream garden to life with our expertise and dedication.”
The company’s website says: “Choosing the right team to build your dream garden can be a difficult decision, given how much information and choices there are available.”
It adds: “Our clients say one of the biggest benefits of working with Outdoor Living Gardens is the fact that we offer a turnkey service. This takes away the hassle of having to communicate with several different contractors, only dealing with one main point of contact throughout the entire process.”
RUBBISH COLLECTIONS FOR GOOD CAUSES
A waste collection company is helping to free up money for good causes by supporting Ilkley Round Table events this year.
Divert is the official waste partner of the 2025 Ilkley Beer Festival and Ilkley Half Marathon and it has pledged to provide bins and waste collections free of charge for both events. Last year the beer festival raised £55,000 for local causes and the half marathon raised £30,000.
Writing on LinkedIn Mark Hall, co-founder of Divert said: “As a local Ilkley lad I’m very proud that Divert can support Ilkley Round Table, an incredible charity making a real difference in our community. Through events like the Ilkley Beer Festival and the Ilkley Half Marathon, they raise an impressive £100,000+ annually to support local causes. With 100 per cent given to charity. Their dedication to community spirit and charitable giving is inspiring and I’m honoured to be part of their journey.”
The 2025 Ilkley Beer Festival took place in early February. This year’s Ilkley Half Marathon will be held on 13th July.
Photography:
Fiona Walsh Landscapes
HEARTS ACE OF
There are some cars that are just winners. Paul Agnew explains why the All-Electric MINI Aceman SE Sport fits into that category.
Photography: Gemma Suckley
Choosing a car is a big deal. Definitely exciting, but not without its confusions and complications.
There is such an array of excellent motors out there, how on earth do you ensure you get it right?
Well it’s certainly worth doing your research, listening to recommendations and taking test drives. You might even find some guidance and answers from reading a review or two!
In my book though the best policy is often the simplest.
Go with your gut.
Take the latest addition to the MINI family – the brand spanking new All-Electric MINI Aceman.
You know at first sight that this is a very special car, somehow you just feel it.
Billed by the manufacturer as a “progressive crossover with everyday usability”, the All-Electric MINI Aceman had practicality zero emissions, sleek sophistication and a cheeky pinch of attitude.
With two performance options, E and SE, you are assured of maximum driving pleasure with a genuine go-kart experience, whether it’s an everyday city run or road trip adventure.
YOU KNOW AT FIRST SIGHT THAT THIS IS A VERY SPECIAL CAR, SOMEHOW YOU JUST FEEL IT
Take the SE Sport – the leader of the pack –for a quick spin and within half-an-hour it will become crystal clear why the MINI designers and engineers believe they have a genuine winner on their hands.
With next level sporty styling, the individual front and rear design emphasises its sporty nature with Black High Gloss features alongside Legend Grey paintwork, black contrast roof, mirror caps and bonnet strips, as well as JCW (John Cooper Works) 18” alloy wheels with black brake calipers. There is also a natty rear spoiler with airblades, and roof rails.
Step inside and get ready for the ride with race-inspired sport seats upholstered black with red contrast accents and stitching –extending through to the patterned dashboard. Automatic air conditioning, heated front seats/steering wheel, front armrest, lidded storage box and head-up display all add to the comfort factor.
The interior is uncluttered and roomy and I’m reliably told that there is actually enough space in the back for a six-foot-tall passenger to sit behind a similar-sized driver.
As for the technology, entertainment and communication. Top notch.
Combining the impressive circular OLED Display with MINI Operating System 9, means a wealth of connectivity is right there at your fingertips. The MINI Connected Package (optional), allows access to an ever-growing range of practical features and entertaining apps, including gaming, music and video streaming.
When you want to know the latest traffic or weather conditions, or to find a charging station along your route, or just fancy a chitchat, the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant is ready and waiting to assist. Activate by simply saying “Hey MINI” or by pressing the
push-to-talk button on the steering wheel.
And listen up – you can add further spice to excellent acoustics with a Harman Kardon surround sound system, featuring no fewer than 10 loudspeakers. The optional MINI Connected Package lets music streaming apps like Spotify and Amazon Music integrate perfectly into the round OLED display.
THE RADAR-BASED DRIVING ASSISTANT HAS A NUMBER OF KEY FUNCTIONS THAT HELP KEEP YOU SAFE AT ALL TIMES AND IN ALL CONDITIONS
Rest assured that safety and assistance features are plentiful. Intelligent navigation helps you work out your route and find your way. Parking Assistant offers features for manoeuvring smoothly into spaces, working alongside the rear-view camera to project the view behind the vehicle onto the OLED display when reverse gear is engaged. The radar-based Driving Assistant has a number of key functions that help keep you safe at all times and in all conditions.
And so to the all-important electric facts or, to use the correct terminology, ‘technical data’. We have already established that it comes emission free and the SE Sport offers output of 218 (hp) and 330 (Nm) torque with the
capability to go from 0-62mph in just over seven seconds.
You’ll find ‘range’ in the region of 250 miles and charging is very good (10-80 per cent) in about half an hour.
Oh and a mention too for the brilliant MINI App – the digital partner to your MINI, connecting you to your car any time, any place. From checking the health and status of your MINI, planning your next trip or controlling a variety of functions remotely –the MINI App unlocks a world of possibilities and opportunity from the convenience of your phone.
The All-Electric MINI Aceman basically has it all. Bold, stylish, quirky, responsive and playful, what’s not to love?
Go on, give yourself up to the Ace of hearts! n
Lloyd Colne MINI Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720740
lloydcolnemini.co.uk
@lloydcolnemini
A YORKSHIRE RENAISSANCE
In November last year The Wheatley Arms reopened its (new) doors after a four-month refurbishment. Joe Varley took his appetite and drinking boots to the celebrated Ben Rhydding hotel and inn
August 2024.
The Wheatley Arms’s car park is half empty. Or, with the level of optimism in the untainted Ben Rhydding air, should that be half full?
As a member of the Stockport-based Robinsons Brewery family, The Wheatley Arms has brought in the good folk at Blackpool-based Ark Construction to oversee their refurbishment – and it’s expected to be quite the dramatic makeover. Builders, labourers and electricians swarm
the car park, each concentrating on specific duties. Inquisitive folk pass by to observe the activity, wondering how their beloved local hostelry will look after its lavish revamp.
FOUR MONTHS IS A LONG TIME FOR ANY LOCAL INSTITUTION TO CLOSE ITS DOORS. FOR THE WHEATLEY ARMS, HOWEVER, IT PROVED A SHREWD MOVE
Four months is a long time for any local institution to close its doors. For The Wheatley Arms, however, it proved a shrewd move. Although the pub was well-known before, convivial General Manager Andy Pye reveals why the refurbishment came about.
“Our renovation was planned to give The Wheatley Arms a new lease of life. The aim was to make areas open and fresh to attract new customers, as well as providing our loyal local community a contemporary ambience. The focus was to be accessible for everyone.”
And accessible to all it certainly is. With new-and-improved upstairs luxury accommodation (complete with Nespresso coffee, free WiFi and Smart TVs), a restyled events room and superbly designed dining/
drinking areas, all bases are covered for anyone looking for a hearty meal or a few leisurely pints. Plus, their celebrated quiz nights on Tuesday evenings reward the winning team with Sunday lunch for four diners. So, in honour of their quizzing pedigree, let’s give readers some trivia about The Wheatley Arms and its environs.
1. The dog-friendly hotel is the only licenced public hostelry in Ben Rhydding – a village one mile east of Ilkley. Its population is just shy of the 3,000 mark.
2. The inn is named after Wheatley – the village’s former name. It sits on Wheatley Lane and nearby roads include Wheatley Close, Wheatley Avenue and Wheatley Grove.
3. Ben Rhydding is named after the Wharfedale Hydropathic Establishment and Ben Rhydding Hotel, which opened in 1844 and was demolished in 1955.
4. Though Robinsons Brewery has around 250 licenced premises in its portfolio, The Wheatley Arms is one of only two of the brewery’s inns situated in West Yorkshire – the other being The Woodman Inn, just south of Huddersfield.
5. Robinsons Brewery claims to operate the world’s largest hopnik – a piece of
equipment used during brewing that recirculates hops, intensifying flavour.
Fast forward to February 2025, the day after Valentine’s Day. My partner and I arrive for an early Saturday dinner, stomachs rumbling in unison. We spot the umbrella stand, relieved to take cover from the winter gloom (Ilkley’s Cow and Calf Rocks are concealed by the mist). Andy welcomes us with his trademark smile as we take in the unpretentiously grand ambience.
EVERY FRIDAY DURING THE SUMMER
WE’LL TREAT DINERS TO WOOD-FIRED PIZZAS
“Our guests love the open plan design,” he beams. “The décor and new furniture have been especially well-received, as well as the garden room and extra drinking areas.”
We are shown to our table, taking in the bustling atmosphere. Nearby, a 70th birthday party is in full flow, which adds to the sense of inclusivity. The Wheatley Arms is an inn and hotel at heart, but that’s just half the story. Here guests can enjoy private events for up to 100 people, being a popular choice for weddings and good old fashioned family get-togethers.
As we peruse the menu, my partner sips from a glass of Flor De Lisboa Reserva while I quaff Robinsons’ IPA Hopnik Citra – an ale so moreish that a second pint swiftly follows. Starters are immaculate spicy – ’nduja prawns on sourdough and harissa and honey halloumi (its pronunciation proving a stumbling block after the Portuguese vino).
The inn’s signature steak & Unicorn ale pie follows with a chicken supreme served with French beans, creamy mash and a wonderful truffled mushroom sauce. Both are worthy of ‘double thumbs up’. Stomachs no longer rumbling, we share a delicious crème brûlée with forest fruits, before polishing off the rest of the subtly spicy red wine.
Spring is a favourite season for many, but what are the expectations for the summer?
“Every Friday during the summer we’ll treat diners to wood-fired pizzas,” says Andy. “There will be full outside service too and live music.”
There’s every reason for The Wheatley Arms to be optimistic. The refurbishment is an outstanding success. n
and the Yorkshire Dales
Yorkshire and the enchanting Yorkshire Dales is steeped in history, character, and natural beauty... with its charming villages, bustling market towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the openness of the Yorkshire Dales, where rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hike along scenic trails that criss-cross the countryside, taking in panoramic views of lush valleys and meandering rivers. Or for a more sophisticated break, immerse yourself in the towns and cities with rich cultural heritage, from the historic city of York with its ancient walls and majestic cathedral to the quaint towns of Harrogate and Skipton.
The Beverley Arms, Beverley beverleyarms.co.uk
The Lister Arms, Malham listerarms.co.uk
The Red Lion, Burnsall redlion.co.uk
The Judge’s Lodging, York judgeslodgingyork.co.uk
danielthwaites.co.uk
Middletons Hotel middletonsyork.co.uk
The Golden Lion, Settle goldenlionsettle.co.uk
The Lister Arms, Malham
The Golden Lion, Settle
The Red Lion, Burnsall
The Beverley Arms, Beverley Middletons, York
The Judge’s Lodging, York
THE WOW FACTOR
The Angel at Hetton is known for its delicious cuisine and stunning presentation – and this recipe is no exception
Run by chef patron Michael Wignall and his wife Johanna the Angel at Hetton aims to serve food that “wows on every plate”. Two-Michelin starred chef Michael describes his food as “modern, technical and meaningful” and his creations entice diners to experience new combinations and ingredients. Here you can enjoy a taste of what makes the restaurant so successful.
MACKEREL WITH DASHI AND TARAMASALATA
Mackerel
Ingredients:
4 x fillets mackerel (pin boned)
50g Maldon sea salt
50g Demerara sugar
(Blend the sea salt and sugar together)
1 /4 cucumber, peeled and diced
approx 1 /2 cm squares
20ml virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Squeeze of lemon juice
Method:
1. Place the fillets onto a tray, skin side down, sprinkle the salt and sugar mixture over each fillet and cure for 45 minutes in the fridge.
2. Wash in icewater and pat dry.
3. With a sharp knife, skin the mackerel and then dice into 1cm dices.
4. Place into a bowl and mix with the diced cucumber with a little lemon juice and season with salt and olive oil.
5. Spoon into a ring cutter and push down until bound together. Leave to rest in a fridge.
Dashi
Ingredients:
1000g bottle water
50g kombu seaweed sheets
25g bonito flakes
45g light soy sauce
12g mirin
12g rice wine vinegar
Method:
1. Bring the water and kombu to approx 85˚c for three minutes. Remove from the heat and add bonito to infuse for 20 minutes.
2. Pour the mixture through a fine cloth into a clean stainless steel bowl. Then add the mirin, vinegar and soy.
3. This can be frozen in small batches once cooled.
Taramasalata
Ingredients:
30g smoked cod roe
1 /2 slice of white bread (crust removed)
75g milk
11g Dijon mustard
1 /4 clove of garlic
1 /2 tsp lemon juice
120g sunflower oil
Sea salt to taste
20ml boiling water
Method:
1. Soak the bread in the milk and place all the other ingredients into a blender, apart from the oil and boiling water.
2. Blend for one minute, then slowly start to pour the oil, a little at a time (just like making mayonnaise). If the emulsion gets too thick add a little boiling water, a teaspoon or so should do it.
3. Carry on until all the oil is added and the season with a little salt and lemon juice.
4. Place into a squeezy bottle or piping bag and set aside in the fridge. This will last for four days if kept covered and cold.
To serve:
Lift the mackerel and cucumber in the cutter and place into the centre of the bowl. Carefully lift the edge of the ring to remove. Then pipe the cod roe mixture around the edge, into even peaks and garnish with the dill.
Pour a little of the dashi around the mackerel and serve. n
angelhetton.co.uk
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Following a spectacular dinner, retreat to one of our bedrooms or suites, to enjoy a night in peace and comfort. Each of our rooms are individually styled and fabulously furnished ensuring your every comfort is met. Packages include either our three - course a la carte menu or eight - course tasting menu. A “tasting style” breakfast is served the following morning, setting you up for a day exploring the fabulous Yorkshire Dales this Winter.
The ultimate Michelin starred getaway awaits. Now with 25% off!
The Angel Inn | Hetton | Near Skipton | North Yorkshire | BD23 6LT 01756 730263 | reservations@angelhetton.co.uk | www.angelhetton.co.uk
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with
RESTAURANT’S MICHELIN SUCCESS
A fine dining restaurant which was launched two years ago with an ‘estate-to-plate’ philosophy has been recognised with a prestigious award. Photography: Rebecca Hope
Middleton Lodge Estate, near Richmond, is celebrating as its fine dining restaurant, Forge, has been awarded a Michelin Star.
The restaurant, which is near Richmond, received the award at the Michelin Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland 2025. Last year head chef Jake Jones also received the Michelin Young Chef of the Year Award and the estate gained the Michelin Green Star.
Jake’s passion for cooking began at an early age and was influenced by his father, who was also a chef. Gaining experience at some of the North’s most renowned farmto-table restaurants, Jake joined Middleton Lodge in 2021 and spent two years working in the kitchens to gain an understanding of the estate’s gardens and the strong ‘estate-toplate’ philosophy, before launching Forge in 2023.
He said: “Being awarded a Michelin Star really is a dream come true. We have an
amazing team at Middleton Lodge and this award means so much to all of us. Our guests’ experience is our priority and I love what I do.
“It is a privilege to build a community of guests who share our passion for food. The estate is a constant source of inspiration and
we are always looking to add to and perfect each course of our tasting experience.
“I would like to thank everyone who has dined at Forge and the incredible Middleton Lodge team. And I would like to thank James Allison for believing in me and the restaurant and Glen Taylor, our general manager, for his support.”
Estate owner, James Allison, added: “This is a fantastic achievement for both Jake and the estate. I am incredibly proud of the team and cannot thank them enough for their hard work and dedication, which have made this award possible.
“When I began restoring Middleton Lodge over 20 years ago I wanted to create a sustainable country estate. My vision was to build a place where people could feel at home, gather and celebrate with great food and service. This award means so much to all of us.
“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this success. We are looking forward to sharing this achievement with our guests.”
THE ESTATE IS A CONSTANT SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING TO ADD TO AND PERFECT EACH COURSE OF OUR TASTING EXPERIENCE
Forge is open from Thursday to Sunday for evening reservations only. Diners can choose from a six or 10 course tasting menu, with optional wine pairings. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available. Dining experiences start from £65 per person and hotel bedrooms on the estate start from £245 per night.
Middleton Lodge Estate features a 58-bedroom hotel, two restaurants (Forge and The Coach House), the Forest Spa and a two-acre walled garden redesigned by renowned landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith. n
middletonlodge.co.uk
Lunch Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Saturday 12 – 2pm
Tea Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Friday 6 – 7pm
£19 for 2 courses • £23 for 3 courses
Sunday Lunch:12 – 6pm
£30 for 2 courses • £38 for 3 courses
COME AND JOIN US...
Outdoor seating area for drinks and food. 11 beautiful bedrooms also available from £105 per night bed and breakfast.
FOOD SERVING HOURS: Monday to Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday to Saturday: 12pm to 2pm and 6pm to 8:30pm • Sunday:12pm to 6:00pm
Booking recommended call: 01200 443339
THE WARMEST OF WELCOMES
Popular Gastro Pub The Rum Fox continues to gain in popularity and is being recognized on a national scale, writes Gail Bailey
Stylish country pub and restaurant
The Rum Fox, nestled in the picturesque village of Grindleton continues to be a favourite dining spot for both locals and visitors to the Ribble Valley.
Chef Patron Bob Geldeard and his team really have created the perfect space to spend quality time with family and friends. The wonderful interior has wood panelling, oak beams, a huge fireplace and a feature quartz-topped bar. There is a modern open plan kitchen in the restaurant creating a contemporary and vibrant experience and alongside this is the fabulous food and wonderful, welcoming team.
The stylish and cosy surroundings allow customers to dine in the restaurant, bar, private dining room or the wonderful garden room with an amazing louvred retractable roof – perfect as we start to look towards the arrival of spring and (hopefully!) blue skies. The pub really is the ideal place to relax,
unwind and sample some of the sensational seasonal menus Bob has created: “We change our dishes weekly dependent upon ingredients,” he explains. Some of the recent offerings include Lancashire cheese soufflé
with cheese sauce and Grindleton apple chutney, Tosside venison loin, cevenne onion, red cabbage, braised shoulder brioche bun, creamed potatoes and red wine sauce – and the ever-favourite choice of pies such as chicken, bacon and tarragon with mustard sauce, seasonal greens and crinkle cut chips.
The seven-course tasting menu continues to be a success and customers can enjoy this with a selection of matching wines:
“We will also soon be hosting another one of our popular wine club events,” says Bob.
“We hold one every two months and they are always a busy and enjoyable night. The evening includes a five-course tasting menu, matched with the perfect wine, sourced and selected by experienced master of wines at Milestone Wines of Clitheroe.”
NO STRANGER
TO ACCOLADES THE RUM FOX HAVE RECENTLY BEEN FINALISTS AT TWO COVETED AWARD CEREMONIES
No stranger to accolades The Rum Fox have recently been finalists at two coveted award ceremonies: “We were in the final six of the ‘One to Watch’ award which is part of the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list, chosen from a shortlist of pubs that are nominated by food critics, writers, gastropub chefs and other food influencers,” explains Bob. “It was such an honour to be in the final six and to make the trip down to London
to attend the awards ceremony. The whole team are proud of the journey we have been on since opening less than two years ago.”
Alongside this The Rum Fox were also in the final of the Best Pub in Lancashire at the Lancashire Tourism Awards recently and were thrilled to be named in the top four. And when The Good Food Guide listed its top 50 cosy pubs, The Rum Fox was one of only three named in Lancashire. “The restaurant review guide sends anonymous inspectors to assess restaurants based on their food, hospitality and atmosphere,” explains Bob, “so we were thrilled to be included!”
WE’VE ALSO EXTENDED OUR
TWO OR THREE COURSE SET MENU FROM LUNCH TIME INTO THE EVENING ON WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAYS – A PERFECT MID-WEEK TREAT!
In addition to their success Bob and the team have now introduced the opportunity for customers to host their celebrations and it couldn’t be a more perfect spot to raise a glass with family and friends: “We have customers taking over the whole pub for an evening or day celebration,” says Bob. “Or for smaller events we have our beautiful private dining space that seats 10 guests or the garden room where we can host up to 30.” The Rum Fox is especially perfect for weddings where up to 80 guests can be catered for.
There really is plenty to choose from at The Rum Fox. Whether it’s an early bird meal, a lovely long lunch, a romantic dinner or even a ‘stop off’ after a walk in the Ribble Valley countryside the menu continually evolves: “We’ve also extended our two or
three course set menu from lunch time into the evening on Wednesday and Thursdays,” explains Bob – a perfect mid-week treat! n
Gift Vouchers are also available, perfect for a Mother’s Day treat, birthday gift or for any other special occasion. For more information, to make a booking, or to be on the VIP list and be the first to hear about upcoming events visit the website.
On their visit to Costa Rica, they met again with the farmer Diego and his farm workers at Aquiares Estate, seeing everything from seed growing to grading of the beans. Tom said it was great to meet with Diego again, walk through the coffee fields and cup the high-quality coffee at source. Back in the UK, the sacks of green coffee beans arrive at Wild Pen Coffee Roasters from Costa Rica, ready to be roasted in small
SINGLE SOURCE ROASTED COFFEE
Fresh off the back of their latest trip to Costa Rica, I checked in with Tom and Milly of Wild Pen to get some more insight from the small batch roastery owners based in Barrowford, writes Lucy Bale. Photography: Richard TK Hawke
batches and packaged by hand. If you’re in the area, call in at the roastery to pick up your supply of coffee and you might even be treated to a freshly brewed coffee! You can also buy from their website with either a single purchase or a flexible subscription – trust me, once you’ve tried Wild Pen’s carefully balanced roast you won’t want to find yourself running low. n If you want to find out more visit their website, or contact: Tom@wildpen.coffee
NESTLED IN THE HEART OF SKIPTON, THE ML WHISKY & WINE IS A REFINED YET WELCOMING BAR THAT OFFERS THE PERFECT BLEND OF SOPHISTICATION AND COMFORT.
Specialising in an extensive selection of premium whiskies and fine wines from around the world, this cozy venue caters to both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
WHISKEY | WINE | COCKTAILS | SHARING PLATTERS & NIBBLES | SUNDAY BRUNCH The ML Whiskey & Wine | No. 9 Sheep Street | Skipton | BD23 1JH | OPEN: Thursday – Sunday from 12pm theml.co.uk | themlskipton | theml_skipton
LEADING THE WAY
It’s exciting times at Eight at Gazegill with an array of recent awards and also becoming the first restaurant in the country to transition to 100 per cent renewable energy, writes Gail Bailey
The green credentials of Eight at Gazegill are important not only as it is the ethos of the business but because they know it is the right thing to do.
“Gazegill has an unfaltering commitment to organic farming and to the environment,” says General Manager Kimberley Talbot. “And to now be able to run totally off grid is a huge celebration for us.” The installation of innovative batteries harnessing solar and wind power, along with using biofuels from the restaurant as a further source of energy, have led to Eight at Gazegill proudly becoming self-sufficient.
But it isn’t just this fantastic achievement the business is celebrating – it has also recently won the New Tourism Business of the Year award at the Lancashire Tourism Awards. This is an incredible achievement for the team in less than 12 months since first opening and illustrates their commitment, passion
and dedication. “We all work hard to deliver the very best farm to fork dining experience,” says Kim. “And the win means we will be heading off to the national Visit England finals in June.”
The restaurant are also finalists in the 2025 Countryside Alliance Awards in the Rural Enterprise category. These national awards are known affectionately as the ‘Rural Oscars’ and they recognise the Best of British.
WE ARE A TEAM WHO ARE VERY PROUD OF WHAT WE ARE ACHIEVING AND ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS!
“Voting starts on 3rd March and runs for two weeks,” says Kim. “And if we’re lucky enough to win we will attend a celebration in the Houses of Parliament. It’s an honour to be nominated for this award as they showcase the strength, diversity and innovation of rural businesses. Keep an eye on our social media platforms to vote for us!”
But there is no standing still and Eight at Gazegill have more exciting events and announcements ahead. “On the 7th and 8th of May we have an exclusive two-night culinary experience featuring our renowned
Chef Patron Doug Crampton and MasterChef winner Dan Merriman,” says Kim. “It promises to be an evening of exquisite flavours, with the chance to meet the chefs behind the magic – and of course featuring our own organic produce straight from the farm.”
Further excitement will come from the potential to host weddings at Eight at Gazegill later in the year: “We can seat up to 90 guests for a wedding breakfast and 120 for an evening reception,” explains Kim. “Imagine getting married in the meadow with Pendle Hill as a backdrop, followed by drinks on the terrace – perfect!”
“We want to thank all our customers for being part of our journey,” Kim adds. “We are a team who are very proud of what we are achieving and are looking forward to what the future holds!” n
This recipe features a rich tomato sauce, lemon and pomegranate ‘kritharaki’. It’s a taste of Greece using British spring lamb, says chef Michael Vanheste of Greendale Teahouse & Rooms. Photography: Jacqui Shepherd
Makes
Serves four as a main course
Ingredients
For the lamb meatballs:
500g good quality lamb mince
55g fresh white breadcrumbs
1 onion finely chopped
1 clove garlic crushed with a little salt
3 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1 egg beaten
Salt
For the tomato sauce:
50ml good quality extra virgin olive oil
800g (two tins) good quality chopped
tomatoes
1 clove garlic crushed with a little salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
1 bay leaf
Salt
For the kritharaki:
200g orzo (rice shaped pasta)
1 lemon
an hour (overnight if you have time as this will deepen the flavours).
3. Make the tomato sauce. Heat the olive oil gently in a saucepan. Add the crushed garlic and cook until fragrant, taking care not to brown it. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, bay leaf, parsley and a pinch of salt. Simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. If the tomatoes are a little sharp, add pinch of sugar.
4. In a deep frying pan, large enough to hold all the meatballs in a single layer, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden. Drain off some oil but try to leave some in the pan as it’ll be full of flavour, then pour the rich tomato sauce over the meatballs. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
5. Prepare the kritharaki. Cook the orzo until al dente. Drain well, then return to the pan. Stir through the finely grated zest of lemon, add a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped parsley, a pinch of sea salt and the pomegranate seeds. Finish off with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish.
A crisp green salad and warm flatbreads are the perfect companions to this dish. n
greendaleteahouse.co.uk
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
Sea salt flake
Drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil
Pomegranate seeds
This is a dish that I learned to cook while Zoe and I were working in Greece for a year. It’s the perfect recipe to inject a little summer into a dish and with wonderful, local British spring lamb, it’s amazing.
Method:
1. Prepare the lamb meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince, onion, crushed garlic, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, breadcrumbs, egg and a generous pinch of sea salt. Knead the mixture thoroughly for five minutes. This binds everything together into a paste.
2. With dampened hands, shape the mixture into oval, sausage-like meatballs, approximately 10cm long. Arrange them on a tray, cover and refrigerate for at least
WINE PAIRING
Tinto, Fea Geno, Portugal £10.50
Julian Kaye of the Wright Wine Company, says: “We could have chosen a Greek red to go with Michael’s dish, but instead we have chosen a wine that we both enjoy to drink.
Geno is a brand produced by the acclaimed Fundação Eugénio de Almeida, who are located in the Évora sub-region of the Alentejo and have been making wine for over 500 years. Produced from a blend of traditional Portuguese grape varieties, this is a rich and fruity red with oodles of raspberry fruit and peppery spice and should match Michael’s amazing dish. wineandwhisky.co.uk
Champagne Breaks at Northcote in The Ribble Valley Northcote’s Exclusive Champagne Gourmet Break from March to May, Sunday to Thursday.
WONDERFULLY WELCOMING…
Tedd Walmsley visits the Black Bull at Old Langho to discover one of the Ribble Valley’s most popular country inns
Set in beautiful countryside is one of the Ribble Valley’s hidden gems –the award-winning Black Bull at Old Langho, a traditional pub with a burgeoning reputation for fantastic food, super service and a laid-back vibe.
The pub is owned and run by husband-andwife team Jamie and Becky Govier, Becky is
very ‘hands on’ and is the driving force behind the business.
Many pubs in the Ribble Valley don’t open early in the week, limiting the choices for lunch and dinner. Becky saw this gap and the Black Bull is usually extraordinarily busy during this time with a variety of customers from locals, walkers, business clients and of course tourists all keen to see what the fuss is about.
INSIDE THE TRADITIONAL PUB THE FEATURES ARE ENHANCED WITH ROARING FIRES AND A STUNNING DINING AREA CREATED FOR CELEBRATIONS AND PRIVATE DINING
Over the past couple of years, the pub has seen plenty of improvements both inside and out – representing a serious investment for Jamie and Becky, who have restored the building to create a wonderfully welcoming country inn. Inside the traditional pub the
features are enhanced with roaring fires and a stunning dining area created for celebrations and private dining. The interior is tastefully decorated with lovely touches throughout, enhancing the whole experience that shouldn’t be underestimated.
The outside space was transformed during lockdown to become an iconic al fresco dining experience – complete with its sail canopy to offer both shade and protection from the odd wet days in the valley! It has proven tremendously popular with a variety of groups and is dog friendly, child friendly and very relaxed. It’s become the place to enjoy a cold beer, a crisp, fruity G&T or a glass of fizz on a stunning afternoon or evening surrounded by birdsong, wildlife and incredible views over the Ribble Valley.
The exciting addition of a seven-bedroom boutique B&B opposite the pub will be completed by the summer of 2025 with additional suites in the grounds. This will be
Photography: Kaptured
By Wayne
a welcome addition to the accommodation options in the Ribble Valley.
The main reason to visit the Black Bull is of course the food – the breadth and variety on the menu is superb. There really is something for everyone, generous snacks and nibbles sit alongside doorstep sandwiches, signature sharing boards and a host of main course options to suit all tastes and appetites. Like everything at the Black Bull, the food is prepared with love and passion. Weekly specials are creative and varied and their Sunday lunch has become legendary –my wife and I are frequent visitors to enjoy this and use it as our benchmark whenever and wherever we eat Sunday lunch in the UK. Cask ales and cold draught lagers are complemented by an intriguing and well thought out wine list.
We shouldn’t forget the service at the pub and this, for me, can make or break a meal. Becky has recruited a formidable team of staff to look after their guests. Attentive where necessary but balanced with discretion and quiet efficiency – nothing is too much trouble and their smiles are infectious and once again, add something to the overall experience.
LIKE EVERYTHING AT THE BLACK BULL, THE FOOD IS PREPARED WITH LOVE AND PASSION
You may have seen that the Bull’s very own Dan Merriman recently won the BBC MasterChef: The Professionals competition. There are some exciting evenings planned in the first few months of the year (see the box out for more details).
In recent months Becky and Jamie have taken on a second iconic Ribble Valley venue –the Edisford Bridge, which overlooks the River Ribble and bridge of the same name –another transformation is underway and the early results look incredible.
No visit to Clitheroe should be complete
AN EVENING WITH DANIEL MERRIMAN
An intimate dining experience with Dan Merriman sponsored by Laurent Perrier and LWC 13th & 14th March 15th & 16th April
Limited availability – book now!
without visiting this quintessential British pub. There are plenty of pub classics and fine ales to enjoy and a new outdoor space is soon to be completed for everyone to enjoy.
If you find yourself in the Ribble Valley at all, then be sure to drop into either one –or even both – of these fine establishments where you’ll be guaranteed the warmest of welcomes. n
The Black Bull
Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801
enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk
theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk
The Edisford Bridge Edisford Road, Clitheroe BB7 3LJ 01200 422637
SPORTING NIRVANA
Founded more than 100 years ago Wharfedale RUFC has a proud record. Mark Dixon takes a look at the club’s long history
On a Saturday just before Christmas I forsook my traditional route to watch a football match and took up a friend’s invitation to The Avenue, home of Wharfedale Rugby Club.
I used to play a bit of rugby, a long time ago and have always followed England’s Six Nations fortunes (including taking my son to his first ever Twickenham match and
seeing England suffer their worst ever home defeat – to France, 2023) but I have to admit that being a rugby spectator has largely passed me by.
THE FIRST THING THAT STRIKES ME AS I WALK DOWN THRESHFIELD’S WHARFESIDE AVENUE AND ENTER THE ‘ARENA’ IS ITS SHEER BEAUTY
Having said that, one of my all-time great sporting memories was being at Otley as The North beat the mighty All Blacks. The great Bill Beaumont reflected that: “It was the only time as a Lancastrian I ever ran out
on the field in Yorkshire and they didn’t tell me to piss off. But it was a great day. And if someone ever said to me in all seriousness ‘what’s the greatest 80 minutes you had?’ –on the rugby field I hasten to add – then that would be it.” I’m showing my age as that memorable match was back in 1979!
The first thing that strikes me as I walk down Threshfield’s Wharfeside Avenue and enter the ‘arena’ is its sheer beauty. It must be one of the most attractive places to watch high level sport anywhere in the country. And don’t just take my word for it. Guardian rugby correspondent, Rob Kitson, paid the club a visit in October 2015 and witnessed a fantastic game against Fylde. He paid ‘Dale’ a huge compliment at the end of the season
by picking The Avenue as the second-best place in Europe to watch and enjoy rugby. Twickenham was third.
Founded in 1923 when a local doctor spotted the popularity of rugby union in neighbouring Skipton, Wharfedale RUFC has a proud history of nurturing talent from the local area.
For the first 50 years of its life the club was actually Upper Wharfedale, changing its name in 1973-74 as it spread its wings and started to play further afield. The name change was not without controversy and opposition, both from clubs and fans down the valley in Ilkley and Otley but also from further north. The landlord of the Falcon in Arncliffe wrote to the president with his reservations: “The name Wharfedale might open doors to this and that…it certainly breathes sophistication, is ‘smooth’ and ‘with it’ I’ll grant you but is that what Upper Wharfedale wants?…Upper Wharfedale to me suggests a tougher breed, men of the uplands and men who can play ‘rugger’.”
With the village club growing in popularity, Wharfedale became one of the first rugby clubs in the country to install floodlights in 1971. The introduction of league rugby in 1987 further expanded their fixture list. The following year, they finished champions in their inaugural campaign, quickly gaining four promotions (with no relegations) to reach the National League 1, where they remained for 20 years.
Despite many rugby clubs turning to
investors to match their lofty ambitions, Wharfedale is a club that takes pride in staying true to its roots, instead relying on local recruitment and a talented junior section.
In fact, several of their 2019 RFU National Colts winning-team have featured regularly for the first team in subsequent seasons.
WITH THE VILLAGE CLUB GROWING IN POPULARITY WHARFEDALE BECAME ONE OF THE FIRST RUGBY CLUBS IN THE COUNTRY TO INSTALL FLOODLIGHTS IN 1971
Off the pitch, former England international John Spencer has been the club’s president for almost forty years and like many of those involved, has close-knit ties to the village, having been born in Grassington and grown up on a nearby farm.
It’s easy to see why John is such a Wharfedale legend. He made his England debut at the age of 21 against Ireland at Lansdowne Road, Dublin and went on to play 14 times for England, scoring two tries. He was selected for the 1971 British Lions tour to New Zealand and played in ten matches on the tour. After playing at Headingley John returned to finish his career back where it started at Dale. When he could no longer play for the first XV, Spencer dropped down to the seconds, then the thirds and so on, until his knees begged him to stop. In Simon Ravens’ wonderful book about the club (‘Riverball!’) he recounts a tale of John sitting quietly reading the paper before a match: “Eventually he put the paper down and got up with a bit of a groan: ‘I see Duckham’s got an MBE: all I’ve got is bloody arthritis!’.”
Latterly, John was President of the RFU in 2017-18, tour manager for the British & Irish Lions on their 2017 tour to New Zealand and the current Barbarian FC President. A glance at the honours board in the clubhouse reflects the dynastic farming community on which Wharfedale was founded. The same names appear over the years as one generation follows another – names such as Dean, Harker and Harrison, men who
have captained the club then gone on to be president.
One such and another club legend was the late Michael ‘Clarty’ Harrison. A ‘one club man’, Harrison was affiliated with Wharfedale for 56 years, studying at local Ermysted’s before first playing for the club at the age of 16 and racking up an incredible 665 appearances in a 22-year first-team playing career.
There have been enormous upheavals in rugby union since leagues began and many clubs have become professional, supported by the deep pockets of private benefactors and investors. This represents a sea change – many say an unwelcome one – in the ethos of the rugby union game as many used to know it, but Wharfedale is determined to keep its soul intact, sticking closely to its community roots. This comes at a time when many clubs at Wharfedale’s level do not field so much as a second XV. By contrast, Wharfedale take pride in fielding three men’s XVs, plus women’s and girls sides and a raft of boys age groups. Perhaps the greatest strength of any community rugby club lies in its volunteers and at every game around 25 volunteers – gatemen, car
DESPITE ITS RURAL LOCATION WHARFEDALE’S ATTENDANCE FIGURES, NORMALLY IN EXCESS OF 500, ARE ALWAYS WELL ABOVE THE AVERAGE FOR THE DIVISION, WITH MANY TRAVELLING FROM FAR AND WIDE
park attendants, changing room attendants, photographers, pressmen, raffle ticket vendors, groundsmen, ballboys etc – turn out just for the love of their club.
As for the supporters, the rugby management acknowledges the unique contribution they make. Despite its rural location, Wharfedale’s attendance figures, normally in excess of 500, are always well above the average for the division, with many travelling from far and wide.
Rugby has many challenges to confront from the RFU down and Wharfedale and other local clubs are obviously not immune to all these issues. There will no doubt be a difficult road to be travelled but my sense is Wharfedale are doing an awful lot right.
I’ll leave the final words to another visitor, retired BBC broadcaster John Inverdale, writing in the Daily Telegraph about his first visit to The Avenue: “To be among a large crowd at a thrilling match at Wharfedale Rugby Club with the sun beating down from a crystal blue sky, the Yorkshire Dales rocking and rolling into the distance and lambs gambolling in the fields, with a decent pint of beer in hand (optional) was to have found sporting nirvana.” n
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ENJOY PROPER MUSIC
Kerry’s first experience of her art being displayed was at just six-years-old. She remembers:
“I was delighted when my colourful abstract painting was framed and hung in the school corridor. I won road safety poster competitions as a young teenager, one prize being a bicycle and achieved first prize designing a poster for the charity Barnardo’s as well as many Christmas card design awards.
“I think I made art as soon as I could and like swimming, can’t remember learning how to.”
So where did this passion for art come from? Kerry explains: “My enthusiasm for art and interior design was encouraged by my mother who supplied me in the 1960s with then new and exciting products like Caran D’Ache colouring pencils and fluorescent paints, instilling in my psyche a love of uplifting colour.
“A visit to London when I was nine at Christmas was inspirational. Veeraswamy’s Indian restaurant was utterly magical, the tall turbaned Indian at the door was
THE JOY OF COLOUR
Describing her paintings and collages as “joyful and spontaneous” and “intimate expressions of how I see and interpret the world around and within me”, Ilkley-based artist Kerry Stoker has the ambitious goal of living to the ripe old age of 120! Andrew Vaux talks to her about her life and her work
incredibly impressive, Hamleys Toy Shop stacked to the gills was a child’s dream and the Christmas decorations and shop windows were mesmerising.
“Then, in my mid-teens, there came the psychedelic hippie vibe in little independent shops which wafted patchouli oil and incense vapours out into the streets, dark inside selling vibrant embroidered Indian clothing, jewellery and goods, the like of which we in Northern Ireland had never seen.
“At sixteen I worked in Edinburgh and discovered BIBA, a trendy clothing and make up store decorated in sumptuous black
and gold selling gorgeous affordable goods, their bright colours glowing and then there was Mary Quant, Habitat and phenomenal inspirational art! These were such exciting colourful times in which to grow up. I remember a friend of mine whose mother made her a mini skirt in ‘shocking pink’ a completely new colour then and I was so envious!”
Growing up in Northern Ireland during the political troubles, Kerry says: “I remember those years as dark, often scary and which seemed to me to halt everything creative in the province.
“Pretty much every day I made something. I drew, painted and designed. There was never any doubt about my tertiary education. So, I read Fine Art at Reading University. I was interviewed by the wonderful Sir Terry Frost with whom I had a great time as he threw questions at me about my journey to Reading from Northern Ireland checking out my
observational skills. Then we exchanged Irish jokes which probably wouldn’t happen nowadays. I’ve always been a huge fan of the man and his work.
“After university I needed a steady income and managed a small art gallery and interior design company for a few years. Then, when I stepped into the beautiful town of Ilkley, I knew this was where I wanted to live forever.”
So which artforms does Kerry practice and relish?
“My leaning towards abstraction is innate, colour became and still is my thing.”
She describes her paintings as: “Dreamy artworks dancing with delicious colour, imbued with a profusion of beautiful shapes and subtle veils of colour, soft and gentle or rich, bold and vibrant, are further enhanced with mark making and texture.”
She says: “I collect rubbish like a magpie, shiny colourful textural rubbish, squirrelled away, gathering dust until I root around,
MY LEANING TOWARDS ABSTRACTION IS INNATE, COLOUR BECAME AND STILL IS MY THING
plundering the paraphernalia until I find the perfect pieces for my collages.
“Having painted in many styles, using different media, including the Yorkshire landscape in various guises, from realistic to more abstract pieces, loose florals, representational still life and more illustrative work, I find each enriches my skills and it’s always fun to learn.”
Kerry concludes: “Currently I’m taking time to develop new work whilst enjoying Army Fit training, swimming and walking, as I intend to live to a ripe old age to watch my three, so far, grandchildren grow up and my children continue to find happiness and fulfilment.
“I’ve been lucky to have travelled to many fascinating, inspirational places like China, New Zealand, Ukraine, Iceland and Hong Kong. Ideas are ever present and constantly evolving, teeming through my head, waiting to be expressed and if I live to 120, I still have several decades in which to make art!” n
Kerry’s work can be viewed locally at Ilkley Arts, Tinker Gallery in Ilkley and Harrison Robinson.
For further information visit: kerryjstoker.co.uk
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What motivated you to set up the Principle Trust Children’s Charity?
My mum died of cancer when I was five years old. My upbringing was very difficult for me and my sister and I knew I was different from other kids who had a mum. I was underprivileged and disadvantaged in many ways and I have thought throughout my career that I wanted to try and help other children who were underprivileged and disadvantaged. Hence in 2011 on my 60th birthday I decided to establish a children’s charity.
What does the charity do and which areas do you cover?
We provide respite breaks to children and their families from Yorkshire who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life limiting conditions or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse. We started in North Yorkshire and had two holiday homes in Blackpool. We then added West Yorkshire and funded two more homes in Blackpool, in addition to funding two lodges on the banks of Lake Windermere specially adapted for disabled children. This year we have added a home at Filey on the East Coast as we spread our activity to East and South Yorkshire.
MY DALES…
Mike Davies left school with no qualifications – but built a successful business career and launched start-ups in the UK, Slovakia and Hong Kong. He won the Queen’s Award for International Business and has advised the Government about apprenticeships in business. The highlight of his career was being awarded an MBE. He lives in Ilkley with his wife Brenda
How widespread is the need in Yorkshire?
We understand that there are around 400,000 children living in poverty in Yorkshire. To date we have provided around 5,300 children with a respite break.
How supportive have local people been? When people know what we do they are very helpful. We now have about 35 patrons who contribute funds to us monthly. We have been adopted by companies as their charity of the year and we have received grants from various organisations. We are always looking for more support. Our next fundraising event is on Friday 25th March at The Craiglands Hotel and features an Oasis Tribute Band.
What are your plans for the charity?
We now provide 165 weeks holidays at Blackpool and Filey and 96 weeks at Lake
Windermere. We aim to provide more homes and more holidays. We want to place even more focus on children’s mental health and wellbeing and we also aim to help more children who have been affected by crime.
Your favourite Dales location?
Settle and the surrounding areas. The locality, the people, the fish and chip shop and a visit to Settle Victoria Hall for one of their entertainment nights and shows.
Favourite place to eat?
There are too many to name! The most recent being The Penny Bun at Askwith for Sunday Lunch.
What do you like most about the area? Its natural beauty, its dales, its villages, its friendliness, its countryside and its sport!
Favourite most inspiring quotes or advice?
Great things in business are never done by one person. They are done by a team of people. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work – and the only way to do great work is to love what you do. n
