The Celts, Angles and Saxons have all left their mark on the Yorkshire Dales - and today their memories remain in the names of their settlements. We look at the origins of some familiar places.
58 BIRD’S EYE VIEW
Alan Veale visits a site on the edge of the Dales, where new technology in the sky above helps us appreciate the scale of a project completed over two decades.
74 SAVING PRECIOUS WILD LIVES
Craven Wildlife Rescue has been at the forefront of caring for injured animals since 2019 - helping hundreds of animals last year alone.
125 GOODNIGHT MR TOM
Dales children will step into wartime Britain this autumn for a Grassington Players production of Goodnight Mr Tom. The moving story will be staged in October.
126 MUSIC THAT STIRS THE SOUL
Settle Orchestra has been making music for nearly 60 years. We take a look at what it has in store for its 2025-2026 season.
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What’s in a (place) name? Quite a lot when we’re thinking about the rich history of the Yorkshire Dales.
While the Celts, Angles and Saxons are part of distant history they have left an enduring legacy in the names they gave their towns and villages.
Local historian Mike Dixon examines the origins of many of these names - such as Ingleton, Embsay, Threshfield and Long Preston - and explains what their meanings are. His fascinating article will be followed up in our next edition with a look at Viking placenames in the Dales.
This area is also home to some impressive schools which have been educating children for hundreds of years. Establishments such as Giggleswick School and Sedbergh School are big names in the world of education. There are so many great schools to choose from but in our article ‘Heritage and Excellence’ we focus on four outstanding examples in this area.
Names are an important - and even divisive - topic for people getting married. With no hard and fast rule on marital surname changes in this country couples just do what suits them best - with some innovative results. Kate Bowyer takes a look at the long history and changing tradition of taking your spouse’s surname.
It wouldn’t be Live The Dales magazine without articles on nature and wildlife. The heart-warming work of Craven Wildlife Rescue will bring a warm glow to anyone’s day. Volunteers care for sick and injured animals ranging from hedgehogs and owls to herons and deer. It’s a fabulous organisation doing great work - and it fully deserves our support.
Meanwhile Alan Veale visits the Long Preston Ings, or Deeps, to find out about a scheme to provide catchment scale habitat restoration while supporting sustainable farming across the whole of the Upper Ribble Catchment. The floodplain is an important habitat for several species of breeding and migrant birds, many on the UK Birds of Conservation Concern Red List.
Art and culture is also well represented in our autumn magazine, with a feature on Settle Orchestra, a look at the Grassington Players forthcoming production of Goodnight Mr Tom, and a question and answer session with Ilkley artist Lucia Smith.
Sit back and enjoy the read!
Annette McIntyre Editor
WHAT’S IN A (PLACE) NAME?
Local historian Mike Dixon delves into the origins of place names in and around the Dales. In the first of a two-part series he examines the legacy of the Celts, Angles and Saxons
Have you ever looked at the distribution list at the front of this magazine and been intrigued, as I have, by the rich variety of place-names we have in the Yorkshire Dales? Many have familiar endings such as -ton, -by, -ham and -ley and are readily attributable to the languages spoken by successive waves of invaders and colonisers in the Dales. Other place-names lack these familiar endings and stand out as unusual, names like Burnsall, Cracoe, Embsay and Settle, for example. But on closer consideration all of them reveal origins in the changing cultures found in the Dales.
The original inhabitants were Celtic tribes, mainly the Brigantes, a confederation of smaller tribes occupying much of Northern England. They lived in hill-forts and small farming settlements but only in rare instances do these link to contemporary place-names. One possibility is in the etymology of Ingleborough and Ingleton. ‘Ingle’ comes from the Celtic ingle or inglem meaning fire, possibly related to the beacon fires on the hill, while ‘borough’ comes from the Old English burg meaning fort. Thus, Ingleton comes from Celtic ingle and ‘- ton’ from the Old English tun – a farmstead or village. Such hybrid names
linking two linguistic origins are common in English place-names, especially in the North of England.
Where Celtic origins are more common is in the names of physical features in the landscape such as hills and rivers. Flowing water held a quasi-religious significance for the Celts who believed it to be inhabited by spirits or even goddesses. These had to
THE ORIGINAL INHABITANTS WERE CELTIC TRIBES, MAINLY THE BRIGANTES, A CONFEDERATION OF SMALLER TRIBES OCCUPYING MUCH OF NORTHERN ENGLAND
be worshipped, or appeased by offerings thrown into the water, a practice that weirdly survives in the throwing of coins into wishing wells. Thus, the Celts named the river Wharfe from their word gwer meaning winding. Likewise, the name Ure is thought to derive from the Celtic word isura, which is believed to mean swift-flowing or strong river. As for hills, the Celtic word for hill, pen, survives in
Pen-y-ghent (from Celtic or Welsh words) meaning ‘hill at the edge’. Pendle Hill (from pen and ‘dle’ from OE hylde – a hill) translates as ‘hill+hill+Hill’ as if to emphasise the point.
The Romans made little impact on placenames in our area despite their presence in Yorkshire for around four centuries, from 70-80 CE (Common Era) to 410 CE. Their objective in the North was to control, not to colonise. Even where a substantial native village or vicus developed around a fort or marching camp, there is little to indicate this in the contemporary place name. Take Bainbridge, in Wensleydale – the nearby Roman fort was Virosidum but the village takes its name from the bridge over the River Bain. Even with Ilkley, which began as a vicus around the Roman fort Olicana, the derivation of ‘Ilkley’ from ‘Olicana’ is disputed. Some antiquarians believe the Roman fort was called Verbeia, taken from the name of the Celtic Goddess of the River Wharfe and that the name Ilkley is of Anglo-Saxon origin. Moving further afield, a Yorkshire town with a strong link to the Romans is Catterick, the site of a major fort and settlement, Cataractonium. The name comes from the Latin cataracta, meaning
FLOWING
WATER
HELD A QUASI-RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE CELTS WHO BELIEVED IT TO BE INHABITED BY SPIRITS OR EVEN GODDESSES
waterfall or rapids, possibly on the nearby River Swale.
Angles, Saxons and Jutes first attempted to invade England in the fourth century, but they were easily repulsed by the Roman army. Most were farmers, not fighters, seeking land after their farms in Denmark and Northern Germany had been devastated by flooding. After the Romans left the North of England in the early fifth century, small raiding parties from Denmark and Germany were welcomed back as mercenaries to help defend the local Britons against other tribes, like the Picts and Scots, who were intent on capitalising on the Roman withdrawal.
In the second half of the fifth century the mercenaries began to settle more permanently, turning against their hosts and seizing land. By the sixth century, larger waves of settlers from northern Germany and Denmark arrived and the native Britons were pushed to the northern and western fringes of the island. The settlers spoke dialects of German which became consolidated into
Old English, from Englisc, the ‘language of the Angles’ – and it was this language that provided the original names given to many settlements in the Dales. Old English, however, was a language far removed from our Modern English; there was to be at least another 500 years of development even before arriving at the Middle English used by Geoffrey Chaucer in his Canterbury Tales of 1387.
The names of Anglo-Saxon settlements typically referenced natural or physical features, or specific people. Settlements grew from individual homesteads into compact villages with the land holdings close by, socalled ‘nucleated’ villages. Understandably, nucleated villages are more frequently found in the valley bottoms where the better agricultural land and principal access routes are found.
Old English (OE) place-names frequently end in suffixes referring to their origins: -ton (from tun meaning farmstead or village) as in Airton – ‘the farmstead by the Aire’.
The River Aire’s name has uncertain origins. One theory suggests it also derives, like the Ure, from the Celtic word isura, ‘the strong river’; Carlton / Carleton – derives from the OE ceorles tun or ceorla tun meaning ‘free peasant’s (or peasants) village’; Grassington –‘the farm among the pastures’; Hetton – ‘the farm on the heath’ (OE haeth + tun); Long Preston – ‘a long (OE lang) farmstead/village of the priest (OE preost)’. This suggests that the village was a linear one along a routeway that had historical connections to the church, perhaps as church-owned land, or a settlement
THE NAMES OF ANGLO-SAXON SETTLEMENTS TYPICALLY REFERENCED NATURAL OR PHYSICAL FEATURES, OR SPECIFIC PEOPLE
with a significant religious presence; Menston probably derives from a personal name, hence Manna’s or Menn’s farmstead; Skipton – ‘the sheep farm’; East and West Witton –probably come from OE widu (wood) + tun, ‘the farm in the wood’.
‘Ham’ (also meaning homestead or farmstead) can be seen in Addingham –‘the farmstead of the kinship of Adda’; Clapham – ‘the homestead with the noisy stream’; Middleham – the ‘middle farmstead’.
‘Ley’ derives from leah meaning clearing or meadow. Thus, the Anglo-Saxon origin for the name Ilkley could be from an OE personal or tribal name Ilk or Elk and mean ‘Ilk’s clearing or meadow’; Burley (-in-Wharfedale
and -Woodhead) comes from OE burg – ‘fort’ and leah making the ‘fortified homestead in the clearing’. Sometimes a leah origin appears elsewhere in the name as in Leyburn meaning ‘the meadow by the stream’ (OE burna – stream or brook). The name Ben Rhydding is best considered here as for centuries it was a hamlet called Wheatley (OE hwaete – wheat + leah). It was only in the second half of the 19th century with the building of a railway station serving the nearby Ben Rhydding Hydro that the name of the village gradually changed.
‘Wick’ or ‘wich’ (meaning dwelling place or farm) can be seen in Austwick –‘the eastern farm’.
These suffixes, however, are not present in all names of Anglo-Saxon origin. For instance, there is: Buckden – ‘valley of the bucks’ (male deer) or ‘woodland pasture of the bucks’; Burn Bridge – this again comes from OE burna – stream, as does Burnsall –burna and OE halh meaning nook, corner, or recess, often used to describe a piece of land by a river bend; Embsay – from a Saxon personal name, ‘Embe’s enclosure’; Gargrave may come from OE gara denoting ‘a triangular piece of land’ and OE graf meaning wood (as in ‘grove’); Kettlewell likely means ‘spring or stream in a bowl-shaped valley’ or ‘cauldron spring’; Threshfield was established by the Angles and as the name suggests was ‘a field where threshing took place’. On the other hand, the origin of Hellifield is disputed. It is likely to be Anglo-Saxon and either dedicated to the Goddess Hel, or alternatively means a ‘holy marsh or stream’. Others, however, claim direct origin from the Norse, ‘the farm of Helgi’. n
The next wave of settlers were the Vikings. They had a profound influence on placenames in the Dales and are the subject of Part Two to follow.
As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to head inside, grab a throw and get inspired by these cosy ideas to create your own snuggly retreat
To achieve a cosy interior, focus on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through rich colours, soft materials, plush textures and gentle lighting to cocoon yourself in comfort. Try layering rugs, adding oversized cushions and bringing in natural touches like wood and stone for that extra snug feel.
HOME SWEET HOME
There’s nothing better than a relaxing bath after a long walk – especially for your fourlegged friend! A designer dog sink, paired with bespoke cabinetry and panelling by The Secret Drawer, creates the perfect cosy, pet-friendly corner your pup will love.
CHILL OUT MODE
Skip the harsh overhead lights and go for a softer glow by layering your lighting. Use wall lights, table lamps with warm bulbs and plenty of flickering candles, with scents that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making the space feel even more inviting. If you have a fireplace, make it a cosy focal point by decorating with candles, flowers and soft lights. Ambient lighting is the secret to that warm, relaxed vibe.
DUVET DAY
Snuggle-readiness starts with a super comfy sofa – think soft, cosy velvet that’s perfect for sinking into for the day. Layer it up with wool blankets, velvets and oversized cushions for that ultimate snug feel. Comfy seating is a must for creating a warm autumn vibe, so go for big, inviting sofas and armchairs that make you want to curl up and stay awhile.
COFFEE MORNING
Natural materials like wood have an instantly warming effect. In this kitchen, bespoke cabinetry by The Secret Drawer is painted in
Lime White No.1 by Farrow & Ball, creating a soft neutral backdrop that pairs beautifully with the rich, hand-carved oak bar stool. The result? A calm, inviting space – perfect for your morning cuppa.
A WELL-DESIGNED OTTOMAN ADDS CHARM AND PRACTICALITY TO ANY SPACE
PUT YOUR FEET UP
Now sit back, put your feet up and relax. A well-designed ottoman like the one featured here from The Secret Drawer, adds charm and practicality to any space. But here’s the twist – once you’re fully relaxed, flip the lid to reveal a built-in games table. Cosy nights in around the games ottoman? Now that’s something special! n
Like a dimmer for the sun. Whisper-quiet privacy, UV protection, and a choice between hundreds of premium textiles.
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Adjust shades from the comfort of your home with a handheld or wall-mounted control, or from anywhere in the world with the Lutron App. Eliminate glare, increase privacy, or create the perfect atmosphere with just one touch.
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.
Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB
Nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside lies a traditional bespoke workshop. Rebecca Hay meets the mother and son owners of Gorgeous Headboards, Marie and Mark Radcliffe, to discover their artisan work
Astunning 10ft hand-made headboard blending in with deep jewel-like aquamarine and caramel tones is the epitome of elegance.
And its beauty is for all to see as it graces one of 14 stunning bedrooms designed by Marie and Mark Radcliffe of Gorgeous Headboards as part of a £1.25 million refit of The Fox and Hounds in Sinnington six years ago.
The clever craftsmen helped transform the romantic 18th century coaching inn and today its unique furnishings are an open picture for window shoppers planning their own special design.
“The Fox and Hound project from 2019 and
right through the Covid pandemic was a fantastic one for us and it’s a great place to inspire people who are thinking of revitalising their own bedrooms,’’ said Marie.
“It was a joy to create something so special and our bespoke work today is based on creating that little bit of magic to transform a room.’’
WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON A BIBLICAL HEADBOARD, THE CUSTOMER WANTED IT TO DEPICT TWO ANGELS CROSSING AND BECAUSE WE CAN CRAFT THE BOARDS TO SUIT THE DESIGN, IT IS GOING TO BE REALLY STUNNING
It was a strong eye for interior design and a frustration not to find just what she wanted, that started Marie’s 30-year career.
And her passion rubbed off on son Mark,
who is equally as passionate and precise as Marie at creating one off headboards which have that extra special panache.
Former property developer, Marie and Mark now run their own bespoke workshop based in Harrogate. Their ethos is perfection and they have the time, foresight and skill to create a headboard which oozes an aura of calmness and elegance, while keeping that all important individualism.
“Your bedroom should be a reflection of you, not a replica of someone else’s,” says Marie. “Every detail – from the fabric that greets your skin each night to the silhouette that welcomes your gaze each morning –should feel deeply personal.”
This mantra runs through everything they do. Each piece is crafted to order, tailored not only to the space it will inhabit, but to the lifestyle and aesthetic of its owner.
From sculptural curves to clean-lined minimalism, every Gorgeous Headboards creation begins with a conversation with Marie and Mark to make sure every wish, every whim, every desire is met.
From the initial design process to the finishing touches, the headboards are entirely individual, made to last and impossible to replicate, making them a fabulous addition to any bedroom.
Marie and Mark’s pride in their work is obvious to see and their expertise has seen their clients range from individuals to famous names, like the quirky and colourful Black Pop studio in Derbyshire’s design hub of Wirksworth.
“We work on so many different projects, from holiday cottage owners who want specialised sizes to a headboard which was made from fabric hand painted in France and like the perfect wallpaper, created like a real piece of art,” added Marie.
“We are currently working on a Biblical headboard, the customer wanted it to depict two angels crossing and because we can craft
the boards to suit the design, it is going to be really stunning,’’ she added.
Clients are encouraged to choose from a library of curated textiles or supply their own –whether a remnant from a designer curtain, a rare bolt discovered on travels, or a heritage print passed down through generations.
Marie and Mark also use their expertise to offer extras, such as cable management for integrated lighting or height to complement high ceilings, making sure the headboard is the centrepiece of the bedroom.
“People don’t want mass-produced luxury,” says Mark. “They want pieces that are
WE’RE CO-CREATING SOMETHING MEANINGFUL –PIECES THAT CARRY EMOTIONAL WEIGHT. AND THAT’S WHERE THE TRUE REWARD LIES
quietly confident – authentic, refined, and built around how they live.”
It’s an approach that’s earned the studio a reputation for quiet excellence.
Much of their work comes through personal recommendation, with many clients returning to commission additional pieces – either for their own homes or as heirloom-quality gifts for family members.
“We’re not simply delivering furniture,” Marie reflects. “We’re co-creating something meaningful – pieces that carry emotional weight. And that’s where the true reward lies.”
Lead times typically span six to eight weeks, reflecting the studio’s deliberate pace and made-to-order model. Pieces arrive ready to install, and the team offers guidance for professional fitting to ensure each commission is presented to perfection.
“Our clients understand that true luxury isn’t rushed,” Mark says. “It’s considered. It’s crafted. It’s worth the wait.” n
Designs for the perfect headboard can be found on the website. Please call ahead before visiting the workshop.
EverythingPlants.co.uk is a new, sleek, online destination that has sparked a new era in garden inspiration
In the age of online convenience, it was perhaps only a matter of time before gardening caught up. For years, the world of plants remained stubbornly rooted in garden centres, local nurseries and the occasional RHS show. But with the launch of EverythingPlants.co.uk, the digital and horticultural worlds have been elegantly woven together, offering homeowners across the UK a direct line to the nation’s best hedging, shrubs, trees and perennials. This isn’t just another e-commerce site. EverythingPlants.co.uk is the retail arm of Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies, a name synonymous with quality, design and horticultural expertise for over 25 years.
Based in Higher Walton, Preston, Bannister Hall has grown from a respected regional supplier into a national powerhouse of landscaping and plant cultivation. Today, it combines the pedigree of its privately owned nurseries with a cutting-edge digital platform – a blend that’s proving irresistible to garden enthusiasts, landscape
BEHIND THE GLOSSY
WEBSITE IS A TEAM OF GROWERS, DESIGNERS AND HORTICULTURAL SPECIALISTS WITH DECADES OF PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
professionals and even Chelsea Flower Show award-winning designers.
NURSERY LEGACY
NOW ONLINE
“From our very own nurseries, we grow, source and deliver more than 40,000 species of plants nationwide,” explains Alan Lovell, founder of Bannister Hall. “Our customers include everyone from homeowners to trade landscapers, property developers, local authorities and designers at the very top of the industry. The ambition behind EverythingPlants.co.uk was simple – to make the quality we’ve nurtured here in Lancashire available to anyone, anywhere in the UK.”
It’s a mission that resonates. For many households, choosing plants has long meant a weekend trip to a local garden centre, often limited by stock, season and convenience.
EverythingPlants.co.uk brings the same tactile excitement of plant shopping into a sleek digital space. Its product range is encyclopaedic from hedging for privacy, flowering shrubs, elegant pleached trees, colourful perennials, fruit and ornamental trees, decorative aggregates, composts, bark and professional-grade plant care products. All are DEFRA-compliant, grown to the highest horticultural standards and certified by the UK Plant Health Scheme –a reassurance in a market where plant quality can vary widely.
DELIVERING GREENERY NATIONWIDE
EverythingPlants.co.uk has also solved one of the great logistical headaches of gardening –delivery. Moving mature shrubs, pleached trees or bulk bags of compost is no small feat. The website offers specialist nationwide delivery direct to the customer’s door, making it possible to order anything from a single fruit tree to a full landscaping project with just a few clicks.
“Customers can also choose to collect from our nurseries, but the real game-changer is delivery,” says Jon Carlyle-Hollywood LLB (Hons), Chief Executive Officer of Bannister Hall. “Whether you’re in the Scottish Highlands, the Welsh Valleys or central London, we can deliver high-quality plants
directly to your home or site. For the first time, the scale and variety of a professional nursery are accessible nationwide.”
MORE THAN A SHOP: A PARTNER IN DESIGN
The story of EverythingPlants.co.uk is also the story of Bannister Hall itself. For more than two decades, the company has been at the forefront of landscaping supply. Its Higher Walton headquarters is more than a nursery, it’s a landscaping design centre, an inspirational creativity hub where ideas, products and expertise converge.
PLANTS BRING JOY, PRIVACY, STRUCTURE AND LIFE TO ANY OUTDOOR SPACE. OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE THAT JOY ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE
Visitors to Bannister Hall can browse its nurseries, speak to designers and explore everything from porcelain paving to pergolas, plants and sculptures.
PEDIGREE YOU CAN TRUST
What sets EverythingPlants.co.uk apart is pedigree. Behind the glossy website is a team of growers, designers and horticultural specialists with decades of practical experience. Bannister Hall Landscaping
Supplies has supplied projects ranging from private estates to public parks, from intimate gardens to large property developments with a level of trust few online retailers could claim.
GARDENING FOR THE MODERN AGE
The rise of EverythingPlants.co.uk also reflects a wider cultural shift. Gardening is no longer reserved for the retired or the green-fingered elite. The pandemic sparked a surge of interest in outdoor spaces and younger homeowners are embracing gardening as a lifestyle choice, a way to blend wellness, sustainability and creativity. With its easy-to-navigate categories, informative product descriptions and aspirational imagery, EverythingPlants. co.uk makes plant buying intuitive and exciting for a new generation. The website speaks as much to someone creating a balcony oasis with beautiful topiary, as it does to a seasoned landscaper designing a country estate with ornamental trees and vast metres of hedging.
For homeowners, the message is clear –the garden of your dreams is no longer confined to what’s in stock at the nearest centre. With EverythingPlants.co.uk thousands of options are at your fingertips, backed by the expertise of one of the UK’s most respected horticultural names.
In the words of founder and director Alan Lovell: “Plants bring joy, privacy, structure and life to any outdoor space. Our goal is to make that joy accessible to everyone, everywhere.” n
Landscaping Supplies Centre & Nurseries Potter Lane, Higher Walton, Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087
everythingplants.co.uk
bannisterhall.com
Bannister Hall
AMANDE COFFEE CUP AND SAUCER (BRUN) £66 nicholasengert.co.uk
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COSY UP
Think soft lighting, rustic textures and colour palettes that embrace the beauty of the season
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EMBOSSED STORAGE
£19.99 loomloft.co.uk
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be situated anywhere in your kitchen with the appropriate plug sockets.
Why not make it part of a kitchen island for a more sociable cooking experience?
SOPHISTICATED SIMPLICITY
The hands-on controls of the innovative ESSE PRO series remain refreshingly analogue. These easy-to-use, tactile dials are neatly housed behind the upper left door featuring the iconic ESSE script, subtly representing 170 years of British stove-building heritage.
TOP 10 COLOURS
The unveiling of the ESSE PRO range coincides with some exciting ESSE colour news, two favourite shades are returning to the range.
Classic Green and Penumbra take the colour collection up to 10 striking options.
Classic Green is a rich, dramatically dark
MORE SPACE … MORE STYLE
They also benefit from ESSE’s unique power share design which directs energy to where it’s needed most, ensuring absolute efficiency and impressively swift heat-up times.
What’s more, with no need for a flue, these impressive electric range cookers can
With more than 170 years’ experience poured into each beautiful British range cooker, what could possibly be better than an ESSE?
Well, how about the newly unveiled ESSE PRO models that have all the ESSE features you know and love, with even more oven space and two additional colours.
ESSE PRO series of range cookers are ideal for ambitious home cooks. The oven capacity has been increased by 40 per cent without compromising on cooking performance, which is great news for big family gatherings or busy baking days.
Thanks to ESSE’s signature patented heat surround technology, even oven temperatures are guaranteed throughout, so you don’t need to shuffle dishes between shelves or turn your trays.
Each independent oven of an ESSE PRO series range cooker has its own adjustable vent to control moisture, for sumptuous sponges in one oven and super-hot, crispskinned roasts in another.
As well as patented heat surround ovens, these beautifully engineered electric range cookers feature cast iron hotplates, induction hob, grill and automated oven control.
THESE IMPRESSIVE ELECTRIC RANGE COOKERS CAN BE SITUATED ANYWHERE IN YOUR KITCHEN WITH THE APPROPRIATE PLUG SOCKETS
leaf tone and the gentle grey of Penumbra is a versatile neutral, designed to suit any style of kitchen.
To make even more of an impact with your chosen finish, you can opt to have a corresponding kick strip, so your ESSE can be drenched in rich colour all the way to the floor.
Colour options now include: Black, Cream, White, Shadow, Pepper, Sage, Matt Black, Matt Anthracite, Penumbra and Classic Green.
Exceptional quality and innovation, as found in the ESSE PRO series, are to be expected from the UK’s oldest master stove maker.
For the last 171 years, ESSEs have been loved in homes around the world and relied upon, everywhere from Shackleton’s Antarctic hut to the kitchens of The Savoy and River Cottage. Now based on the Lancashire-Yorkshire border, this historic brand still employs a team of experts to build its range cookers and stoves by hand, using time-honoured techniques, skills and knowledge built up since 1854. n
TIDY-UP TIME
October heralds the start of the big garden tidy-up getting plants and containers ready for winter
As autumn progresses, October is the best month to plant trees, shrubs and perennials as the soil still has some warmth, which will help to get them established. If it’s autumn colour you are after, conifers can provide fabulous splashes of orange, blue or purple at this time of year. They are cone-bearing seed plants and include cedars, cypresses, firs, junipers, larches, pines, spruces and yews. Whilst being practical and useful, conifers are also visually stunning and can transform a garden into something quite magnificent. They are easy to look after and although they need good drainage and water to get them established, after that they need little attention as they are pretty disease resistant and maintenance free. With several hundred varieties of conifers available in the UK, there is one to suit every type of garden and they look just as good in a container on a patio or balcony as they do in a more spacious setting.
Dormant bare root roses are now available as well and can provide a cost-effective way of creating a mini rose garden for the coming year. Before planting, soak the roots in water and then mix some good quality compost into the soil and make sure the plants are watered well once planted.
An added bonus of growing roses is that they produce amazing rosehips around this time of year – providing a food source for wildlife and some autumn interest in the garden. From the wild dog roses of the hedgerow to ornamental hybrid teas in the garden, hips contain rose seeds and their
THE END OF THE SUMMER IS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD. HERE’S TO OCTOBER … A A Milne
bright colours attract the birds to eat and distribute them. But some roses develop far more colourful hips, in larger numbers, that last much longer than others such as R rugosa with its fragrant flowers that are followed by red hips looking like cherry tomatoes.
Roses with exceptional hips are also found among the older, classic shrub roses like R Penelope which is a long-flowering hybrid musk with richly scented, creamy-pink flowers and uniquely coral pink hips and R Scharlachglut that has huge numbers of pear-shaped red hips following scarlet flowers. Rosehips can also be used as a herbal tea – they are a great source of vitamin C and can also have anti-inflammatory properties. n
OCTOBER: TOP TIPS FROM THE RHS
• Move tender plants into a greenhouse or indoors
• Move or plant trees and shrubs
• Cut back perennials that have died down
• Divide herbaceous perennials such as hosta and iris
• Divide established rhubarb crowns to create new plants
• Plant out spring cabbages
• Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts
• Prune climbing roses
• Finish collecting seeds from the garden to sow next year
• Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas
STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
When a Trawden couple decided it was time to upgrade their kitchen, utility and bedroom, they turned to trusted professionals to make their dream home a reality. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Olivia and her husband Jack moved into their modern four-bedroom semi-detached home in Trawden a year ago however, they knew one thing straight away –the kitchen just wasn’t for them.
“There was nothing wrong with it as such, it just wasn’t to our taste,” explains Olivia, a psychotherapist working for a women’s charity. Jack, a plumber, agreed. Both enjoy cooking and entertaining and they wanted their kitchen to reflect their lifestyle and individual personalities. Having previously
worked with Clearly Interiors on a kitchen at a former property, the couple had no hesitation in turning to the interiors specialist again –a company known for delivering exceptional results across Lancashire and beyond.
GOSH – THE TEAM AT CLEARLY INTERIORS WERE AMAZING! THEY CONSTANTLY HAD THEIR EYE ON THINGS, WHICH WAS GREAT WHEN WE BOTH WORK FULL TIME
A visit to Clearly’s impressive showroom quickly sparked inspiration. They opted for sleek, German-made Bauformat units in a mix of textured and smooth sand tones. A quartz worktop with gold marbling added a sense of understated luxury, while Karndean herringbone parquet-style flooring brought warmth and timeless appeal.
“From the start, Clearly Interiors were so efficient,” says Olivia. “Gosh – they were
amazing! They constantly had their eye on things, which was great as we both work full-time. If we needed advice on something they had already thought of it – they were always one step ahead.”
The transformation was extensive. A wall from the existing utility room was removed to extend the kitchen, creating a more open and spacious environment. A new utility area was then established in an underused room off the kitchen, finished with grey units and matching flooring to ensure a seamless flow from one space to the next.
The kitchen itself is now a masterclass in stylish practicality. On one wall, floorto-ceiling cabinetry houses two Siemens ovens, a microwave and ample storage. The centrepiece is a showstopping island unit featuring a hob, built-in extractor, pendant
lighting and atmospheric under-unit illumination – perfect for cosy evenings or family dinner parties. A Quooker tap, sink and dishwasher sit neatly along another wall while double glass doors have replaced a smaller window, flooding the space with natural light. The addition of a feature wall painted in Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster, a flat screen TV and a vintage-style radiator has turned this into a true living kitchen.
But Clearly Interiors’ expertise didn’t stop there. Upstairs, the couple asked the team to design bespoke fitted wardrobes on either side of a chimney breast in the bedroom, complete with feature shelving for books and accessories. The result is a space that is both beautiful and supremely functional.
WE ARE EXTREMELY HAPPY WITH OUR NEW KITCHEN, UTILITY AND BEDROOM AND WE WOULD CERTAINLY RECOMMEND THEM!
Olivia and Jack couldn’t be happier: “We are extremely happy with our new kitchen, utility and bedroom – and we would certainly recommend the team at Clearly,” Olivia says. “They really do think of everything.”
Commenting on Jack and Olivia’s project, Becca Lowcock of Clearly Interiors says: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Jack and Olivia to revamp their bedroom and transform their kitchen and utility room into a much larger, more practical space.
“The new layout works beautifully and allowed us to incorporate an island, perfect for their love of hosting and socialising. The fitted bedroom furniture maximises storage while adding feature shelving to work around the chimney breast.
“The warm, neutral colour scheme flows throughout their home, tying together the fitted bedroom, kitchen and utility room to create a timeless feel. We’re so happy they’re delighted with the result! n
The Garden Village is the UK’s first dedicated wheelie bin storage manufacturer. Launched in 2009, as a wheelie bin and recycle box storage specialist, The Garden Village became an industry leader selling direct to retail and trade with online platforms throughout the UK.
Today, our product range has expanded, offering elegant and practical storage for bikes, garden tools, firewood, parcels and eco-friendly commercial bin solutions, not to mention decking kits and garden bars too!
Drawing inspiration from the local area, each product range is named after one of the scenic villages of the nearby Ribble Valley, reflecting our company’s commitment to blending function with beauty, whilst staying true to our roots.
HIDE YOUR WASTE… ENHANCE YOUR HOME
Offering practical garden storage solutions, these handcrafted products blend seamlessly into your outdoor space ALL OUR PRODUCTS ARE BUILT FROM FSC® CERTIFIED PRESSURE-TREATED TIMBER, KNOWN FOR ITS STRENGTH AND NATURAL AESTHETIC
All our products are built from FSC ® certified pressure-treated timber, known for its strength and natural aesthetic. Crafted by skilled artisans, our units are designed to blend seamlessly into any garden or driveway, proving that even the most practical products can be housed beautifully.
At The Garden Village, we believe practical doesn’t have to mean plain. Whether it’s hiding your wheelie bins or keeping your parcels dry, we’re all about solutions that make your outdoor space look as good as it works. And if you’ve got a question, our friendly team are always here to help. n
The Garden Village Altham Business Park Sykeside Drive Altham BB5 5YE
Design, Handcraft,
Furnish: an integrated approach to interiors
At the heart of successful design lies the thoughtful consideration of concepts and principles, which dictate practical layout and functionality of the space, the flow from room to room, any existing features, as well as the colours and textures that fill them that reflect the customer’s style.
This is not a new concept, designers from the Arts and Crafts movement didn’t just want to create beautiful, handcrafted furniture. They were also interested in creating unified ‘total’ design schemes.
As designers and makers of bespoke interiors since 1998, an integrated approach is at the heart of what the designers and cabinetmakers at The Secret Drawer do day in, day out. Owner and furniture designer Richard Mason says, “I wanted to create the most beautiful bespoke, handcrafted interiors and help customers make personal choices to enhance their bespoke furniture. Creating a space that functions well and ‘feels like home’ is the ultimate aim.” With design A, our customer wanted a modern and bright space that flowed well and complemented beautiful architectural elements, such as the ancient beams.
From lighting, handles, tiles, paint colours and soft furnishings, seating and mouldings, The Secret Drawer have always helped customers to unlock their style potential.
Achieving this goal means spending many hours with the customer. First at the showroom (Ilkley and Skipton) and then at the client’s home for a greater understanding of their style and needs for the space.
“It’s no surprise that we end up getting to know our customers very, very well as we spend months with them. They become our friends and they often come back to us as their home life expands and changes or they move house.”
Says Richard.
Sometimes the starting point can be a much-loved item. In the case of B it was the splashback tiles. For C it was the artwork on the wall. And in D, the client wanted a library feel for their office, making it seem like it had always been part of their Arts and Crafts home.
Everything we design and create is entirely bespoke and lovingly handcrafted in Yorkshire in our workshop in Skipton. We focus on informed furniture and interior design, precision workmanship and quality materials, underpinned by the very best service from our professional team.
REAL ROOMS TOUR
How to reflect your true individuality when using an integrated approach:
DESIGN PROCESS:
Supported throughout the process where your needs, wishes and preferences are listened to.
COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION:
Collaboration between interior designers, and furniture makers to ensure a cohesive design in a style that suits you.
ENHANCED FUNCTIONALITY:
Furniture is designed and handcrafted to meet your specific needs, to fit perfectly and optimize the space in your home.
IMPROVED AESTHETICS:
A cohesive and harmonious design that is visually appealing, comfortable and feels like your home.
The Old Chapel, Sawley Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1SX T: 01756 797800 27-29 Church Street, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 9DR T: 01943 600295 secret-drawer.co.uk | info@secret-drawer.co.uk
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS
Celebrate the season with kitchen accessories that bring warmth and charm
From ceramics to textiles, autumn tones and textures create a homely atmosphere perfect for cooking, hosting and gathering together.
Autumn is a season defined by comfort and character and the kitchen becomes a natural hub. Accessories inspired by the shifting landscape make cooking and dining more inviting. Mugs are an ideal place to start as they mark the daily pause for tea or coffee. In autumn they become more than just vessels. Stoneware mugs in autumnal colours add depth to the kitchen while reactive glazes and hand thrown shapes create individuality. The tactile quality of a solid mug enhances the ritual of holding something warm on cool mornings.
Plates bowls and serving dishes follow suit with earthy palettes that echo seasonal produce. Think deep ochre paired with soft creams or smoky greys alongside muted greens. Matte finishes have a contemporary
feel while glossy glazes bring vibrancy to the table. Serving platters in natural ceramic or glassware with subtle amber tones make everyday meals feel abundant. Layering tableware in mixed textures is an easy way to bring richness without needing a full set.
Textiles are essential for an autumn kitchen
as they soften and warm hard surfaces. Linen napkins in warm neutrals or checked cotton tea towels in rich shades bring seasonal accents into daily use. Table runners in woven wool or soft brushed cotton add a welcoming note while also being practical for family dining. Aprons in natural fabrics such as canvas or washed linen not only protect clothing but also contribute to the aesthetic of a kitchen rooted in craft.
Small accessories have a big impact in creating a seasonal mood. Wooden chopping boards left on display add rustic charm while also being functional. Ceramic storage jars in earthy tones keep ingredients organised while enhancing the visual appeal of open shelving. Candles in simple holders introduce a sense of ritual to evening meals while lantern style lighting evokes the soft glow of autumn evenings. Even glassware can shift with the season by incorporating amber hues or thicker shapes that feel more grounded. Together these pieces celebrate the textures and tones of autumn. By choosing accessories that combine function with warmth the kitchen becomes more than a working space. It becomes a place to gather reflect and enjoy the season at home. n
Energy efficient Speedy build Room in roof option
Predictable build programme
Design flexibility
Offsite precision engineered
Mon-Tue: Appointment Only
Wed-Fri: 9.30am -5.30pm
Sat: 10am-1pm
5A Accrington Road Whalley Lancashire BB7 9TD
SEASONAL TEXTURES
This autumn interiors are all about warmth, grounding colours and a softer approach to modern living. Think layered textures, natural finishes and an inviting, cocoon-like atmosphere
Nature continues to inspire design choices but the tones have deepened. Rich browns, clay reds and moss greens are replacing the paler shades of summer. These colours feel grown-up yet comforting and work beautifully in both period homes and contemporary apartments. Expect to see earthy wall paints teamed with tactile fabrics that bring the outdoors in without being overly rustic.
Texture has become the key to making rooms feel richer and more personal. Bouclé is still present but is being joined by heavier wools, corduroy and stonewashed linen. Upholstery is going chunkier with oversized cushions and enveloping armchairs. Tactility matters
as much as colour with fabrics inviting touch and giving a sense of depth.
Mid-toned woods such as oak and walnut are stepping forward this season. They balance darker walls and offer warmth without heaviness. Furniture with clean lines in these finishes creates a timeless backdrop for layers of textiles and ceramics. Vintage pieces in teak or elm are also being rediscovered adding character to contemporary spaces.
make it easy to set a cosy glow as the evenings draw in.
The curved furniture trend is still rolling and shows no sign of fading. Sofas with rounded arms, circular coffee tables and arched shelving units are continuing to soften sharp corners. The look adds a touch of playfulness while keeping interiors feeling inviting and calm.
Minimalism is evolving into a gentler, softer version often called quiet luxury. It avoids clutter but embraces rich fabrics, muted hues and high-quality natural finishes. Think pared back but never cold. This is less about showy statement pieces and more about creating rooms that feel harmonious, balanced and enduring.
Accessories are leaning tactile and hand crafted.
Pottery, wool throws and woven baskets add depth and story. Metallics are warming up too with antique brass and soft gold edging ahead of chrome. These small details complete the seasonal shift making homes feel lived in yet elegant.
Autumn 2025 is all about comfort and grounding. The look is layered, tactile and glowing with warmth. It is less about trends for trends’ sake and more about creating a home that feels like a retreat. n
AMBER-TONED GLASS AND DIMMABLE SMART BULBS MAKE IT EASY TO SET A COSY GLOW
Lighting is playing a starring role. The trend is moving away from cool white bulbs and harsh downlights. Instead warm low-level lamps, sculptural floor lights and frosted glass shades are creating mood. Amber-toned glass and dimmable smart bulbs
KEEPING THE HOME FIRES BURNING
When it comes to reliable stove installation in Lancashire, few names carry the trust and reputation earned by Chris Brownlow and his team at Stove Installer, writes Katie Hammond.
Photography: Kirsten Platt
With more than 3,000 stoves expertly installed in homes across the region, the team at Stove Installer have become the go-to experts for a professional service, attention to detail and an unrivalled commitment to customer satisfaction.
Building a successful business is not easy, especially when starting from scratch, but Stove Installer’s loyal customer base is always growing, thanks to the comfort and craftsmanship they bring to every home with every installation.
Founded in 2005, on the traditional values of honesty, hard work and reliability, the business has grown steadily over the years, without ever losing sight of what matters
most – the customer. As a family-run business, they treat every project as if it were in their own home, offering a personal touch larger businesses can often struggle to achieve.
“We’re not just fitting stoves,” says Chris Brownlow. “We start with a comprehensive
and free consultation so we can really get a feel for the home. We then offer the best advice on what’s going to work well for the individual property to make sure that this fits with the client’s vision for the finished project – our customers trust us because we take the time to understand their needs, offer honest advice and ultimately, deliver work to the highest standard.”
WE OFFER THE BEST ADVICE ON WHAT’S GOING TO WORK WELL FOR THE INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY TO MAKE SURE THAT THIS FITS WITH THE CLIENT’S VISION FOR THE FINISHED PROJECT
With years of hands-on experience and full HETAS certification, the Stove Installer team provides peace of mind that every installation is carried out safely, legally and to the latest industry standards. Whether it’s a traditional multi-fuel stove, a modern wood burner or a bespoke fireplace installation, their knowledge and precision ensure a smooth process from start to finish. They also handle chimney lining, flue systems and safety inspections, ensuring every element
of the installation is secure, compliant and built to last.
Chris continues: “We’re proud of our no nonsense, full-service approach. After the detailed initial consultation, we guide customers through stove options which best suit their space, lifestyle and budget. From sourcing the right high-quality stove, to co-ordinating building work, we manage every aspect of the job, so there’s no need to juggle multiple contractors and all the hassle that comes with it.”
And once the stove is in place, customers can count on thorough aftercare, including guidance on lighting and maintaining the fire, fuel types and regular servicing.
More than 3,000 happy customers can’t be wrong. From charming cottages in the Ribble Valley to contemporary homes in
Preston, the Lake District and beyond, Stove Installer has built its reputation, fire by fire. Many customers return years later for new installations or recommend the company to friends and family – a true testament to the trust they’ve earned county wide.
Proof of them putting their customers’ needs at the heart of all that they do is that their showroom, situated next to Tiggis restaurant on the A59, is never open. Instead, the team invite customers to come and view the stoves on offer at whatever time is convenient for them, whether that be an early morning visit, or a weekend evening appointment.
As energy prices continue to fluctuate and more households seek efficient, sustainable heating solutions, demand for professionally installed stoves continues to grow. Stove Installer remains at the forefront of this movement, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern know-how to
help customers reduce costs, increase comfort and enjoy the timeless charm of a real fire.
Chris continues: “We supply and fit the most efficient and cost-effective stoves on the market, from renown manufacturers including Clock Woodburners and Heta.
WE DON’T TRY AND COMPETE ON PRICE, AS WE KNOW THAT THE SERVICE WE OFFER IS SECOND TO NONE AND WORKS OUT TO BE MORE VALUE FOR MONEY IN THE LONG RUN
“We don’t try and compete on price, as we know that the service we offer is second to none and works out to be more value for money in the long run – we also offer competitive finance options.
“We are a team of six, who want our business to stand out based on recommendations from satisfied customers and being recognised as the true specialists in our field that we are.
“As far as I know, there are very few local business owners who are involved in the entire process from start to finish, advising customers from the initial consultation through to the fitting – I’m always going to do the best job, as it’s my name and reputation that’s on the line.” n
Oak House, Longsight Road Clayton-le-Dale BB1 9EX 01706 822208
07787 858585
stoveinstaller.co.uk BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Stove Installer
Above left: Saint James Zurich jacket £189 Helen Midgley 29-31 Main
Above right: LANX Reed boots in brown £210 and LANX Whalley boots in red brick grained £220 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley
ONE STEP AHEAD OF THE REST!
Photography: Kirsten Platt
Fitright footwear are proud to announce that they have won the best Bespoke Footwear Retailer of the Year Award. The judges were impressed with our team’s personal touch, consistency of reviews, online activity and community feel.
Fitright footwear are an independent, specialist, retail shoe shop that particularly specialises in helping people who have awkward or hard-to-fit feet and very different to any other shoe shop you will find on the high street. We are proud to be different to other retail shoe shops as we offer a service like no other.
Unlike other shoe shops we have an appointment system and offer a complimentary measuring and fitting service rarely found in adult shoe shops.
We have a locked door policy so that when our customers step through the door they have a relaxed, one-to-one 45-minute appointment with one of our friendly, professional, fully-trained shoe fitters without interruption from browsers or the telephone. Allowing 45 minutes ensures that our customers do not feel rushed or
pressurised during their appointment –it allows them the time to select footwear that fits best and feels the most comfortable. We have a wide range of footwear that offers an extensive choice of styles, widths, depths and sizes for men and women in brands that are not found on the high street. Our shoes also have removable insoles that can accommodate orthotics.
All our fully trained staff have an extensive product knowledge of our footwear which is essential to the in-depth service we provide. It ensures that when you come for your fitting, we understand what shoes your feet need. We advise and explain our choices in detail so our customers understand why their feet would benefit from certain styles. Our aim is to give our customers as much choice as possible so we will take the time to try different brands and styles as it’s important to find a shoe that fits and is comfortable. But, the customer makes the ultimate decision to
buy. There is no hard sell or obligation to buy.
Sometimes what you like and what your feet need are two different things. As one customer once said: “You should buy shoes to fit your feet not your head.” That is exactly what happens at fitright footwear. We are dedicated to helping our customers understand why they need to think differently about what they put on their feet.
It’s essential to keep moving for our health and wellbeing and having comfortable shoes on our feet will enable us to carry on moving. It’s horrible when foot pain prevents us from doing the things we want to do.
If it’s time you treated your feet to comfortable footwear that fits, then ring and book an appointment to see us now.
Fitright footwear - putting a smile on your feet and with you every step of the way. n
Appointments only:
Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm
3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172
harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk
32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399
clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk
fitrightfootwear.co.uk
comfort.fit.style
_fitright
Fitright Footwear
CELEBRATIONS ALL ROUND
It is testament to Michelle Berkin’s enduring, elegant sense of style that her fashion business continues to go from strength to strength.
Michelle b, in the heart of Barrowford, has from the outset, been renowned for its classic worldwide brands.
Today the likes of Weekend Max Mara, Riani, Vilagallo, Marc Cain, Hale Bob and Moschino feature in the michelle b portfolio.
Despite changes in trends, over the years Michelle has continued to wow customers with her diligent choice of personally selected stock: “When I first started out, I used to go to Paris and London to buy but now most of the European fashion houses have bases in London.
“Back then customers would come to
Photography: Kirsten Platt NEXT YEAR MICHELLE WILL BE CELEBRATING HER LANDMARK 21ST ANNIVERSARY –AND NO DOUBT WILL BE DOING THIS IN STYLE!
or trainers – that will take them to the races or out to supper with friends,” explains Michelle, who previously spent 20 years as a textile designer.
“I had intended to go into interior design but that all changed when my husband Kevin bought me the Barrowford shop as a surprise. He just gave me a set of keys and I spent nine months restoring it.
“It just lent itself to fashion – I did all the interior design and we had a fantastic opening night with doormen in red tuxedos and a band!”
michelle b for a really special ‘black tie’ dress. We stocked Jenny Packham, Roland Mouret and Missoni – all the top labels.
Fast forward two decades and Michelle can’t believe just how successful her venture continues to be: “I still have some of my original customers – they are very loyal. The shop has become a real social hub. Some customers will just pop in for a chat and a coffee, which is lovely.”
Michelle and the six-strong michelle b team have been joined more recently by Liv Holden. As well as being instrumental in developing the michelle b social media platforms and PR side of the business, Liv ensures that the website is kept right up to date with the latest arrivals into the store.
“It was very much investment dressing and while that still remains, today ladies want their outfits to work a lot harder – they buy a beautiful dress that can be worn with heels
Next year Michelle will be celebrating her landmark 21st anniversary – and no doubt will be doing this in style! “You see other shops closing, but we are thriving and I am very grateful for that. I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown by – it’s been an incredible journey!” n Michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk
TIMELESS TAILORING FOR WOMEN
For over thirty years, Norton & Townsend has been synonymous with bespoke British tailoring for gentlemen. Now it’s launching its new ladieswear line
Heritage tailor Norton & Townsend has a reputation for helping men to look their best – and now under the leadership of owner and creative director Victoria Thompson, it is bringing that same commitment to a dedicated ladieswear line – Toria Design.
Victoria’s journey into tailoring has been anything but ordinary. She studied fashion design at Manchester Metropolitan University before moving to Egypt, where her family owned factories. There, she honed her skills in design, pattern cutting, fitting and sampling for global brands. Returning to the UK, she continued her career in womenswear, working
with high-street retailers and refining her expertise in tailoring.
“When Norton & Townsend came up for sale, I jumped at the chance,” says Victoria. “I’ve always loved tailoring, both men’s and women’s, but most of all I adore fabric – I’m a total fabric geek! This was an opportunity to work with some of the best cloth merchants in the country and create truly unique pieces for our clients.”
EACH FITTING IS PART OF A JOURNEY – CHOOSING FABRICS, REFINING DETAILS AND CREATING SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL INCREDIBLE EVERY TIME YOU WEAR IT
Victoria acquired Norton & Townsend in March 2020, just before the first lockdown. Like so many small businesses, plans had to be put on hold as she navigated COVID and its aftermath. “The first few years were all about survival,” she reflects. “But I always knew ladieswear would be part of the future. It was just a question of getting it absolutely right.”
That perfectionism has paid off. Toria Design is a carefully considered collection of timeless women’s tailoring, grounded in the same meticulous craftsmanship Norton & Townsend is known for. “We don’t do high
fashion – we create pieces that transcend trends,” Victoria explains. “Our goal is to help every woman discover her own style. Coco Chanel said ‘Fashion changes, style remains’ – and that’s exactly our philosophy.”
Every garment is a collaboration, from the first conversation over coffee to the final stitch. “We get to know our clients, their lives and their needs. Visiting a tailor can feel intimidating, but we make it relaxed, personal and even fun. Each fitting is part of a journey – choosing fabrics, refining details and creating something that makes you feel incredible every time you wear it. A tailor-made suit is like armour – every woman deserves one.”
She adds: “We love creating heirloom pieces. Garments so beautifully made, with such stunning fabric and detail, that they’ll be just as relevant and stylish decades from now. That’s the complete opposite of fast fashion and that’s what makes tailoring so special.” n
nortonandtownsend.co.uk
BESPOKE TAILORS
Wherever
BOBBI BROWN NO SMUDGE MASCARA £31
This long-wearing, waterproof mascara volumises, curls and lengthens lashes without smudging, clumping, or flaking. bobbibrown.co.uk
CHARLOTTE TILBURY HOLLYWOOD FLAWLESS FILTER £39
A cult glow booster that gives the skin a soft-focus radiance. charlottetilbury.com
BRIDAL SKIN SECRETS
111SKIN ALL DAY
RADIANCE MIST £75
Use this moisturising face mist as the final step of your skincare routine, as a finishing spray after applying makeup or as a top-up throughout the day. 111skin.com
From hydrating masks to glowing foundations, discover the top beauty essentials for a flawless wedding day look
VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY SATIN KAJAL LINER £32 victoriabeckhambeauty.com
LISA ELDRIDGE SEAMLESS SKIN FOUNDATION £44
Created by a renowned UK makeup artist, this foundation offers a natural, skin-like finish with buildable coverage, lasting a minimum of 12 hours. lisaeldridge.com
HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING PALETTE £68
Provides an ethereal, candlelit glow that photographs beautifully and sets makeup with a soft radiance. hourglasscosmetics.co.uk
VIEVE THE ESSENTIALS EYE PALETTE £49
With 10 highly pigmented colours, this palette has warm, flattering tones perfect for timeless bridal looks. vievebeauty.com
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.
ALL SKIN MED – BARRIER RECOVERY CREAM £84
Perfect for stressed-out skin in the run-up to the big day, this rich cream has superior moisturising and soothing properties that calms irritation and soothes even the most sensitised and reddened skin. Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic, Burnley 01282 420886
MII COSMETICS BRIGHT EYED, FIRM & SMOOTH HYDRAGEL MASK £24
Hydrating and brightening under-eye patches, a revitalising under-eye treatment designed to target the visible signs of ageing. miicosmetics.com
TRINNY LONDON LIP2CHEEK IN FREDDIE £26
A multi-use cream pigment that melts into skin. Dewy and natural for both lips and cheeks. trinnylondon.com
Mohs surgery
• Single-visit surgical treatment
• Single-visit surgical treatment
• Local anaesthetic
• Local anaesthetic
• Lab work done while you wait
• Lab work done while you wait
• Smallest possible scar
• Smallest possible scar
• 99% cure rate for a primary skin cancer
• 99% cure rate for a primary skin cancer
SKIN CANCER SAVIOUR Mohs surgery
ISKIN CANCER SAVIOUR
Ihad a small blemish on my forehead that was worrying me. My daughter had been saying to get it checked because it had started bleeding and had got a bit bigger.
had a small blemish on my forehead that was worrying me. My daughter had been saying to get it checked because it had started bleeding and had got a bit bigger.
“I went to my GP, who thought it was a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). She said she could put me on the waiting list to have it removed on the NHS. It only sunk in a erwards that I probably had a skin cancer and I decided to get it treated straight away. I called Discover Laser because they’ve looked a er my skin before.
“I went to my GP, who thought it was a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). She said she could put me on the waiting list to have it removed on the NHS. It only sunk in a erwards that I probably had a skin cancer and I decided to get it treated straight away. I called Discover Laser because they’ve looked a er my skin before.
“A er a consultation con rmed my GP’s diagnosis, I was scheduled for Mohs surgery with Dr Aslam at Discover Laser just two weeks later.
“A er a consultation con rmed my GP’s diagnosis, I was scheduled for Mohs surgery with Dr Aslam at Discover Laser just two weeks later.
“On the day of my surgery, I received the usual warm welcome and was settled into their lovely waiting area. I wasn’t in the least bit nervous because I knew I was in the right hands and knew what would be happening.
“On the day of my surgery, I received the usual warm welcome and was settled into their lovely waiting area. I wasn’t in the least bit nervous because I knew I was in the right hands and knew what would be happening.
“Dr Aslam removed my BCC in stages. Each time, he took the smallest amount of skin and biopsies were done to check if any cancer cells were le . I had three stages altogether to make sure they were all gone. I didn’t feel any pain at all, thanks to the local anaesthetic.
“Dr Aslam removed my BCC in stages. Each time, he took the smallest amount of skin and biopsies were done to check if any cancer cells were le . I had three stages altogether to make sure they were all gone. I didn’t feel any pain at all, thanks to the local anaesthetic.
“During surgery, I felt completely at ease. I chatted with the surgical assistants and even got to choose what music I listened to, which was lovely. A erwards, Dr Aslam stitched me up and I was allowed to go home. It was a long day, but I didn’t feel anxious because I was so well cared for and my daughter was with me.
“During surgery, I felt completely at ease. I chatted with the surgical assistants and even got to choose what music I listened to, which was lovely. A erwards, Dr Aslam stitched me up and I was allowed to go home. It was a long day, but I didn’t feel anxious because I was so well cared for and my daughter was with me.
“A er three days, when my daughter took the bandage o , I was shocked to see the size of the wound compared to the size of the BCC, but I do know they travel under the skin.
“A er three days, when my daughter took the bandage o , I was shocked to see the size of the wound compared to the size of the BCC, but I do know they travel under the skin.
“We followed the a ercare instructions and I had no problems with infection. I did have some bruising and two black eyes, but the swelling was minimal. I went back to the clinic to have my stitches out and their nurse, Deborah, did it with a great deal of care and with no pain at all.
“We followed the a ercare instructions and I had no problems with infection. I did have some bruising and two black eyes, but the swelling was minimal. I went back to the clinic to have my stitches out and their nurse, Deborah, did it with a great deal of care and with no pain at all.
Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers – one Discover Laser patient explains why the procedure gave her such peace of mind after a recent diagnosis
Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers – one Discover Laser patient explains why the procedure gave her such peace of mind after a recent diagnosis
“Since then, the wound has carried on improving. I had some numbness, which Dr Aslam said might last 12 months, but that has gone. At my three-month follow-up with Dr Aslam, he was pleased with how the surgery had gone and how I’d looked a er the wound. I was surprised but very grateful to be given a thorough, full-body skin check to make sure there were no other areas of concern.
“Since then, the wound has carried on improving. I had some numbness, which Dr Aslam said might last 12 months, but that has gone. At my three-month follow-up with Dr Aslam, he was pleased with how the surgery had gone and how I’d looked a er the wound. I was surprised but very grateful to be given a thorough, full-body skin check to make sure there were no other areas of concern.
“I was told it would take 12 months for the pinkness to fully fade, but it’s already looking so much better. Now, eight months later, my scar is hardly noticeable. This is down to Dr Aslam’s skill as a surgeon and Discover Laser’s brilliant a ercare.
“I was told it would take 12 months for the pinkness to fully fade, but it’s already looking so much better. Now, eight months later, my scar is hardly noticeable. This is down to Dr Aslam’s skill as a surgeon and Discover Laser’s brilliant a ercare.
“Mohs surgery has given me peace of mind that there is only a one per cent chance of my BCC returning. The only thing to remember now is to wear factor 50 sun protection.
“Mohs surgery has given me peace of mind that there is only a one per cent chance of my BCC returning. The only thing to remember now is to wear factor 50 sun protection.
“I can’t say how grateful I am for the procedure. If you have a skin concern, I would recommend 100 per cent to go to Discover Laser for the best treatment possible.
“I can’t say how grateful I am for the procedure. If you have a skin concern, I would recommend 100 per cent to go to Discover Laser for the best treatment possible.
“You know you are in professional hands, cared for, comfortable, reassured and you will be welcomed by the lovely, friendly team.” ■
NOW, EIGHT MONTHS LATER, MY SCAR IS HARDLY NOTICEABLE. THIS IS DOWN TO DR ASLAM’S SKILLS AS A SURGEON AND DISCOVER LASER’S BRILLIANT AFTERCARE ~ DISCOVER LASER PATIENT, RIBBLE VALLEY ~
TO BOOK A DERMATOLOGY
“You know you are in professional hands, cared for, comfortable, reassured and you will be welcomed by the lovely, friendly team.” ■ NOW, EIGHT MONTHS LATER, MY SCAR IS HARDLY NOTICEABLE. THIS IS DOWN TO DR ASLAM’S SKILLS AS A SURGEON AND DISCOVER LASER’S BRILLIANT AFTERCARE ~ DISCOVER LASER PATIENT, RIBBLE VALLEY ~
TO BOOK A DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATION call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886
CONSULTATION call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886
find out more about treatment visit: discoverlaser.co.uk
To find out more about treatment visit: discoverlaser.co.uk
BCC before surgery - white circle indicates total removal area
Five days after Mohs surgery Eight months after Mohs surgery
BCC before surgery - white circle indicates total removal area
Five days after Mohs surgery Eight months after Mohs surgery
FROM PAIN TO PEAK PERFORMANCE
Are you struggling with knee osteoarthritis? There’s a groundbreaking, non-surgical treatment now available at Move Physiotherapy in Harrogate. Administered by Dr Rishi Dhand, it is redefining treatment for patients living with knee pain. Photography: John Waite
Revolutionary Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. While joint replacement surgery is effective, it is also a major invasive procedure with a lengthy recovery period. But now, there’s an alternative at Move Physiotherapy, a dedicated injury rehabilitation and performance coaching facility serving the Harrogate Community and beyond.
Founded by Alex Morrell in 2018, bringing together elite sports expertise, evidence-based physiotherapy and strength and conditioning to help individuals of all activity levels overcome pain, restore function and reach athlete potential.
Introducing Arthrosamid – a new procedure at Move Clinic
Arthrosamid is a non-biodegradable injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) implant consisting of 2.5 per cent cross-linked polyacrylamide and 97.5 per cent water. It is administered via a simple, one-step procedure performed under local anaesthesia – ensuring you’re in and out of the clinic the same day. Arthrosamid is proven to maintain a significant, longlasting reduction in knee OA pain – even five years post-treatment.
How does Arthrosamid work?
Arthrosamid is the first and only permanent injectable implant that integrates with the knee’s synovial tissue, forming a scaffold that softens and increases tissue elasticity. This leads to decreased joint stiffness, reduced pain and improved knee function.
Dr Rishi Dhand said: “I am a sports medicine and musculoskeletal doctor with over 12 years’ experience in the NHS and nine years working in elite sport, treating a wide range of patients.
“Arthrosamid is an innovative injection treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Research shows that it can provide longer-lasting improvements in pain and function – in some cases for up to five years – making it a potential game changer in managing knee osteoarthritis.
“By helping patients stay active with their natural knee for longer, in my experience Arthrosamid is particularly valuable for those wishing to delay, or who may not be suitable for, knee surgery. At Move, we provide a complete pathway – sports medicine assessment, diagnosis and intervention, combined with expert physiotherapy, to take patients from pain to performance.’’ n
For more information on the treatment visit: arthrosamid.com
To book an appointment call 07983 154832 or email: hello@movephysiotherapy.co.uk
Start small. One of the most effective tools for overcoming shame is self-compassion. Developed by researcher Dr Kristin Neff, self-compassion involves three main components:
Self-kindness: Treating yourself with care and understanding rather than harsh criticism.
Common humanity: Recognising that suffering and imperfection are part of the shared human experience.
Mindfulness: Noticing and allowing emotions without suppressing or exaggerating them. Admit that mistakes are part of learning. Developing this kind inner voice can change how you relate to your shame. Shame often
MIND MATTERS
Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes explains how, with support and advice, we can heal the wounds of shame
Shame is a deeply uncomfortable and powerful emotion. Unlike guilt, which is tied to specific actions, shame affects how we see ourselves. It whispers: ‘You are bad,’ rather than: ‘You did something bad’. Left unaddressed, shame can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-worth and disconnection from others.
But the good news is, shame is not permanent –it can be understood, confronted and transformed. The first step to dealing with shame is understanding what it is and where it comes from. Shame often originates in childhood, stemming from experiences where we were criticised, rejected or made to feel unworthy. Traumas, social comparison, cultural expectations and even seemingly small moments of embarrassment can all contribute to a lasting sense of shame.
Shame thrives in secrecy. It makes us feel isolated, as if we’re uniquely flawed. But in reality, everyone experiences shame. Recognising its universality can begin to loosen its grip. One of the most important steps in addressing shame is learning to recognise your personal shame triggers. These might include:
• Feeling left out or excluded
• Making a mistake at work or in relationships
• Failing to meet your or others’ expectations
• Body image or appearance concerns
• Financial struggles or perceived inadequacies Pay attention to the physical sensations (tight chest, flushed face), thoughts (feeling worthless) and behaviours (withdrawing, apologising excessively) that accompany your shame responses. Journaling about these can help uncover patterns and contexts. As shame grows in silence, speaking about it can be incredibly healing. Sharing your experiences with someone you trust can help release the burden. Empathy is shame’s antidote. When someone responds to your vulnerability with compassion rather than judgment, it challenges the belief that you are unworthy. Working with a therapeutic coach with whom you have formed a trusting relationship can be the support you need to open up and share the shame. Whether with a friend or a professional you don’t need to overshare or disclose everything at once.
rests on the distorted belief that you’re not loveable or you always mess things up. These thoughts may feel true, but that doesn’t make them accurate. Your shame does not define you. Start by identifying your core shame beliefs. Where did they come from? Are they really yours, or were they imposed by others? Then, gently challenge them.
Shame can also stem from environments or relationships that reinforce it. If certain people consistently belittle you, it’s okay to set boundaries or even distance yourself. You deserve to be around people who see your worth and treat you with respect. Healing from shame often involves creating safer emotional spaces for yourself.
In her research, Dr. Brené Brown found that people who live with a strong sense of worthiness are those who embrace vulnerability. They are willing to be seen, imperfections and all. Each time you risk vulnerability –a heartfelt conversation, sharing your art, asking for help – you reclaim a bit of yourself from the grip of shame. Many people struggle with shame because they hold themselves to impossible standards. Perfectionism isn’t a sign of excellence, it’s a shield against the fear of not being good enough. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for growth. Allow yourself to be a work in progress. Celebrate small wins. Learn from mistakes without condemning yourself. n
Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.
• Portman straightforward (fixed braces exclusively for under 18s – without the wait)
• Teeth whitening (for over 18s only)
Gut health is key in the colder months as around 70 per cent of our immune system lives in the gut. Warming dishes like miso soup, hearty stews or a spoonful of sauerkraut make meals feel intentional while supporting a balanced microbiome. On Sundays, I like to make a big pot of vegetable and bean curry, it fills the kitchen with warmth and smells amazing and I can enjoy it all week as a base for a few recipes.
NUTRITION WITH KELI
Keli Thompson explains how you can nourish your body through the autumn switch-over
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, my food changes too. Autumn isn’t about clinging to summer, it’s about meals that warm, nourish and make the season feel alive. That crisp, light salad that felt perfect in July suddenly doesn’t hit the same spot in October. It’s not just a mood change, it’s my body showing it’s adapting to the season. Leaning into this change and choosing foods that feel comforting keeps me fuelled and supports my health and I’ve started noticing how much more satisfying meals feel when they match the season.
Healthy eating in autumn is about embracing the season with more colour, more comfort and more nutrients. Nature’s already done the hard work – we just need to fill our plates with what’s in season. I love roasting root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and parsnips. They give slow-release energy and even help with serotonin production, which feels especially good as the days get shorter.
Citrus fruits, which I usually associate with summer, actually peak in winter. Oranges, grapefruits and satsumas deliver vitamin C when our bodies need it most. I like keeping a bowl of satsumas on the kitchen side, it’s always an easy way to remind myself what to snack on, whilst adding autumnal colours to the room.
Shorter days mean less sunlight, which can affect vitamin D levels. Including foods like oily fish, eggs or fortified milks helps support mood, immunity and bone health, even when the sky is grey. I also love using the cold, wet days as a chance to practise a bit more mindful eating by sitting down, savouring each bite and tuning in to how my body feels.
Spices add both flavour and warmth. Cinnamon, ginger and turmeric help with circulation and have anti-inflammatory properties. I often sprinkle cinnamon on baked apples, stir turmeric into soups or sip ginger tea for a little lift.
A few practical habits help me stay on track during autumn:
• Batch-roast seasonal vegetables at the start of the week (parsnip, sweet potato, butternut squash)
• Add nuts or seeds to soups and salads
• Keep jars of warming spices handy
• Make a big pot of curry or stew and freeze portions
• Experiment with seasonal grains like barley, farro or spelt for variety
• Adding fresh herbs or trying a new vegetable each week, make meals feel exciting and seasonal
Healthy eating in autumn is about welcoming the season, nourishing your body and enjoying all the warmth, colour and comfort it brings. Taking a few moments to create meals I truly enjoy makes the season feel cosier, more mindful and memorable. n
nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com
nutritionwithkeli
BIRD’S EYE VIEW
A lot can happen in twenty years. Alan Veale visits a site on the edge of the Dales, where new technology in the sky above helps us appreciate the scale of a project completed over two decades
Look at this image of a floodplain. This is a section of the Ribble near Settle. I’d describe it as “a bird’s eye view”, following the course of the river on its journey to the sea – a fair analogy, given that countless numbers of birds use it as a landmark.
Still puzzled over what you’re looking at? I’m not surprised. Like me, you may have driven past it without realising it was there. This is the Long Preston Ings, or Deeps, formed at the end of the last Ice Age, lying west of the A65 south of Settle. The photo was taken recently by a remote-controlled drone, and if the same technology had been available twenty years ago, we might then
have seen a slightly different picture.
Today, I’ve turned off the A65 to learn more about ‘The Deeps’ and I’m standing on a footpath forming part of the Ribble Way, watching a group of five Whooper swans follow the course of the river.
With abundant wildlife throughout the
AT
THE PEAK OF WINTER, THIS AREA CAN BE HOME TO AN IMPRESSIVE GATHERING OF UP TO 2,500
BIRDS, INCLUDING SHOVELER, LAPWING, WIGEON, TEAL AND PINTAIL
year, the floodplain is an important habitat for several species of breeding and migrant birds, many on the UK Birds of Conservation Concern Red List. At the peak of winter, this area can be home to an impressive gathering of up to 2,500 birds, including shoveler, lapwing, wigeon, teal and pintail.
But then we should consider the historical influence. This glaciated 162-hectare valley was subject to centuries-old Enclosure Acts of Parliament, ending an open field system in existence for many hundreds of years. Originally intended to increase agricultural productivity, the Acts gave legal ownership of common land to private individuals. But by the end of the twentieth century, some artificial structures built by those owners, such as weirs, flood banks and drains, had fallen into disrepair. Flooding was still an issue and salmon were unable to migrate upstream to spawn. Above all, there was no co-ordination to seek environmental opportunities between farmers and landowners.
Since 2004, the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) has been working
Photography: Andy McLaughlin
Photography: Sean Davis
Photography: Sean Davis
Photography: Sean Davis
in partnership with organisations including Natural England, Ribble Rivers Trust, Environment Agency and the RSPB. In 2010 the partners agreed an ambitious strategy with the dual aims of providing catchment scale habitat restoration while supporting sustainable farming across the whole of the Upper Ribble Catchment.
I’m here to meet Adrian Shepherd, contract adviser for YDMT, who has been facilitating the project since 2006. Once a farmer and previously employed by RSPB, he now organises meetings between the respective parties, including the twenty-six farmers who own and manage the land, as well as wildfowlers and those who own fishing rights. We sit in a bird hide constructed in 2014 out of recyclable materials, while Adrian explains how the land next to Cow Bridge became a focus for the project.
“In the early days of the project, relationships between farmers, fishermen and environmental organisations could be difficult, especially in regard to removing flood banks. They’ve learned since that they can still farm, even with the river opening
up. It just means having to adopt a different approach. Cattle can still graze for part of the year when it doesn’t flood and you’ll also see where we’ve cut back parts of the tall rush grass to encourage wading birds like curlew, lapwing, redshank and snipe.”
THE FLOOD PLAIN ALSO PERFORMS A VITAL JOB IN HOLDING BACK WATER FROM BREACHING THE BANKS OF THE RIVER DOWNSTREAM
Adrian continues to tell me how extending areas of peatland can help with carbon capture, but explains that managing the Deeps is not just for the benefit of the wildlife,
or of those who work, live or visit the area. The flood plain also performs a vital job in holding back water from breaching the banks of the river downstream. As to the future, attracting financial investment to strengthen natural defences is a goal, as well as increasing awareness of the work and the reasons for it.
Walking on that footpath, admiring the peaceful nature of this glorious sweep of countryside, my attention is caught by a passenger train on the Settle to Carlisle railway. I think of those inside, looking out. What do they see? Even local residents have little knowledge of the work done over the last twenty years, but you can bet the birds appreciate it. As do the fish in a healthier river. The view for all just keeps getting better. n
Photography: Sean Davis
Photography:
SILENT VOICES IN NATIONAL PARK
Surely it’s time to start listening to the voices that will inherit the Dales? Writes Victoria Benn
Our National Parks are inspirational places, vital for protecting landscapes and wildlife habitats and important – wherever we live – as spaces we can go to for recreation and mental and physical renewal.
Yet, when visiting a National Park, such as the Yorkshire Dales, how many of us have ever given any thought to how they are governed? Indeed, if you’ve ever had the ambition to become a leader (member) of a National Park Authority, you may be surprised by the (potentially) decades long process you’d have to embark on to get there. For most authority members, the route to leadership is to initially canvas as a candidate for local council or parish elections. Next, you’d need to run for election and become a local councillor. Following this you would be selected by that council to join the National Park Authority. Arguably it’s an archaic, slow and potentially intimidating process – whichever way you look at it. It probably also explains why the average age of England and Wales National Park Board members is 64.
“There’s a disconnect between youth and nature,” explains Jonathan Riley, Chair
of Trustees for Friends of the Dales. “It’s a divide that is driven by multiple factors, in particular poorly timetabled and limited public transport into and around National Parks and escalating unaffordable house
DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES LEAD TO BETTER DECISIONMAKING, ESPECIALLY WHEN TACKLING TODAY’S COMPLEX ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES
prices within the Parks. The young people I’ve met through Friends of the Dales passionately care about the Yorkshire Dales, but their ability to live, work or even visit the area is severely compromised
by financial and social constraints. The governance systems in place also prevent them having a seat at the table where the big decisions affecting them and their futures are being made.”
Led by the national campaigning charity, Campaign for National Parks, a movement is growing, one where young people and underrepresented communities are calling for a change in how protected landscapes are governed. Here at Friends of the Dales we also agree – if National Parks are for everyone, why aren’t they being shaped by everyone?
YOUNG PEOPLE AND UNDERREPRESENTED COMMUNITIES ARE CALLING FOR A CHANGE IN HOW PROTECTED LANDSCAPES ARE GOVERNED
“Campaign for National Park’s call for increased youth representation in National Parks governance isn’t just symbolic, it’s strategic,” adds Jonathan. “Diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making, especially when tackling today’s complex environmental challenges. We’ve already started giving younger people the opportunity to join our board meetings and other committee meetings as guests and have been bowled over by their insight, knowledge and refreshingly different perspectives. Sometimes you must concede that you simply don’t know what you don’t know!
“We really hope other organisations and charities reading this are inspired to follow suit and give younger people a chance to be heard.” n friendsofthedales.org.uk
#LOVEANDLAUGHTER
MAGICAL WELLNESS HIDEAWAYS
TAKE A BREATH, FEEL THE CALM
IN THE LAKE
DISTRICT
Sometimes , we all need a break — a quiet moment to relax, breathe and let go. At Gilpin, our Spa Suites and Spa Lodges are designed to give you just that. With your own private spa, you can unwind in peace, away from it all.
MAGICAL WELLNESS HIDEAWAYS
Designed for guests recovering from illness, going through something difficult, or simply needing to pause, our Magical Wellness Hideaways are here to soothe and support. During your three night stay, we’ll make sure every moment feels special, with Champagne (of course), spa hampers, spa treatments, Pure Lakes Experiences (creating your own bespoke products), and both Michelin-starred and pan Asian dining.
THE GILPIN EXPERIENCE
Nestled in the beauty of the Lake District, each Spa Suite and Spa Lodge offers comfort, privacy and time to heal. We’ll take care of everything – so you can rest, recharge, and feel a little more like yourself.
IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT LUXURY, IT’S ALSO YOUR TIME TO PAUSE
HOPE TO WELCOME YOU TO GILPIN SOON
ON TARGET
Everything Retreat’s corporate experiences brought a thrilling new edge to team-building with a high-octane day of precision rifle-shooting, gourmet dining and luxury relaxation
Everything Retreat in the heart of the Ribble Valley is known for its luxurious lodges, serene setting and immersive experiences.
But recently, it stepped things up a gear with a corporate away day like no other –combining high-powered rifle shooting, gourmet food and soothing relaxation. The event was the latest in Everything Retreat’s growing calendar of corporate experiences,
created for companies that want to do business differently.
The day began at the retreat itself, where guests gathered over a hearty breakfast in the tranquil rural setting. Then, with a convoy of SUVs and anticipation high, the group headed towards the moorland above the picturesque village of Waddington.
Hosted by renowned events company Newberry Experience, the trip gave participants access to the kind of equipment and instruction rarely available outside military circles.
At the heart of the day was Ady Newberry, an ex-military professional and five-times British shooting champion, whose calm guidance and quiet authority made him the ideal host.
Under Ady’s expert supervision, guests got hands-on with a range of high-powered, British-made precision rifles. Reactive steel targets were placed at distances of up to
half a mile and with each round fired, guests were drawn deeper into the moment. “It’s completely immersive. Clients often tell me how calming it is. You can’t think about work or emails when you’re this focused on the target,” says Ady, who adds: “We ensure everything is super-safe. We go above and beyond in terms of safety.”
This unique balance, between precision and relaxation, is why Everything Retreat was so keen to collaborate with Newberry as Louise Monk, the visionary behind the retreat, explains: “Ady is the real deal. His experience, professionalism and stories elevated the whole day. Our guests felt like they were part of something extraordinary.”
ADY’S EXPERIENCE, PROFESSIONALISM AND STORIES ELEVATED THE WHOLE DAY. OUR GUESTS FELT LIKE THEY WERE PART OF SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY
The group’s schedule was tailored from start to finish. After the morning session guests relaxed in a shooting lodge high on the moors for a lunch prepared using fresh,
local produce: “Lunch can be anything from a hearty cold buffet or a sit-down three-course hot meal, depending on the mood of the day,” adds Louise.
CLIENTS OFTEN TELL ME HOW CALMING IT IS. YOU CAN’T THINK ABOUT WORK OR EMAILS WHEN YOU’RE THIS FOCUSED ON THE TARGET
With its rugged scenery and elite setup, the shoot was ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Whether it’s team building, staff rewards or impressing high-level clients, Everything Retreat’s experience days are meticulously designed to forge connection and encourage focus. “It’s a fast-track way to bond and build confidence,” adds Louise. “We see teams return with a totally different energy. And, this particular experience on the Lancashire moors didn’t just end at the range.
Guests returned to Everything Retreat for post-shoot relaxation in their beautifully appointed lodges. Some chose a dip in their private hot tub, while other add-on options can include an ice bath or deep-tissue massage.
Evening meals arranged by Louise at Everything Retreat can be anything from a fire-feast, cooked over coals by private chefs on the state-of-the-art barbecue located in the grounds of the retreat, to a curated, exquisite tasting menu served on-site.
Everything Retreat’s corporate experiences are as flexible as they are luxurious. From strategy sessions to wellness-focused getaways
and product launches, every detail is taken care of by Louise and her dedicated events team. It’s a sophisticated, rural setting that offers total privacy, cutting-edge hospitality and the chance to reset and reconnect.
As Louise concludes: “Working with Ady and Newberry gave our guests a truly unforgettable experience. It was thrilling, elite and totally unique. The Ribble Valley really does have Everything!” n
To find out more about experience days and stays at Everything Retreat go to: everything-retreat.com
EVERYTHING retreat
Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Mellor BB2 7EQ 01254 965095
Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy and Amber Hindley, who are converting it into a thriving five-star resort
Welcome to our post summer article which I write from my in-laws home in Sun Valley, Idaho. There’s no bad time of year to be here but summer in the Gem State is extra sweet. It’s paradise for those that enjoy the outdoors, boasting the largest roadless area in continental US namely the River of No Return Wilderness.
Back in the UK at Gisburne Park, summer trade is in full swing. Hindelinis is bursting at the seams now with the dry weather on our side. There is live music Friday nights and Saturdays from 1pm to 7pm. Weddings are in full swing, glamping is booked out and the lodges and cottages are virtually sold out.
Over a year ago we teamed up with Wild Track Pro to help Amber and I manage our herd of Sika deer on Gisburne Park Estate. They are a community of ecologists, zoologists and wildlife rangers who manage wild deer across the country in
various habitats from rewilding areas, private estates, commercial forestry, woodlands with public access and even urban environments.
Together we came up with the idea to launch high quality, organic venison boxes called Grey Ghost Venison. We have established a processing facility
in the heart of the estate utilising the old shooting lodge. Our goal is to deliver quite possibly the freshest meat you will ever get without taking it yourself. To order your venison box go to greyghostvenison.co.uk.
Meanwhile significant progress has been made with regards to the transformation of the estate into a private members club, boutique hotel and wellness resort with the focus being the Grade I mansion house and a new purpose-built wellness club (for more information see page 83). It’s an extremely exciting chapter for Amber and I. Our vision is to plan for the next 10, 25 and 50 years as the decisions made now, if carefully considered, should benefit the estate for that period if not much longer.
DUE TO THE SUCCESS OF THE VIP AREA LAST YEAR, WE ARE DOING THAT AGAIN BUT TICKETS WILL SELL OUT WITHIN A FEW DAYS OF GOING LIVE
Bonfire Night is a spectacular event which we host annually on the estate and have now finetuned. This year it will be staged on Saturday 1st November. Tickets are now live on our website. Due to the success of the VIP area last year, we are doing that again this year but these tickets will sell out within a few days of going live, so if you want your own dedicated area, bar and pizza then you need to secure these tickets asap. n
ADHD develops in childhood and about two thirds of children carry the disorder into adulthood. The way the symptoms present tends to change over time; in adults, symptoms can be more subtle.
Common presenting symptoms are appearing chaotic, poor time management, erratic moods, forgetfulness and distractibility. We often see co -occurring conditions, particularly with undiagnosed ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.
AUTISM - ASD
Autism is a Neurodevelopment condition; it begins in childhood and is lifelong. It effects social communication and is associated with restricted and repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivities.
Dr Whitaker is HCPC registered and is recognised with:
and many more private health organisations. Assessments available within 3/4 weeks.
LET’S TAKE A WALK…
Although in Cumbria, Dent lies within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and was part of the West Riding of Yorkshire until 1974. This easy walk through the beautiful village is relaxing and full of interesting things to see
With its narrow, cobbled main street, white-walled cottages and ancient village church, set in a deep, narrow valley, Dent is one of the loveliest of Dales villages. Walking through the cobbled streets of the village - still known by its old name of Dent Town - you will find an art gallery, heritage centre, blacksmith’s shop and 12th century church. A point of interest in the village is a memorial fountain to its most famous son, geologist Professor Adam Sedgwick, 1785-1874.
This wonderfully picturesque two-mile walk begins at the west end of the village.
DENT CIRCULAR WALK
Distance: 2 miles
Time: Between 40 minutes and one hour
Parking: Dent Village Car Park at the Memorial Hall
Toilets: Dent Village Car Park
Refreshments: In the village
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
1. Follow the road through the heart of the village and along Beech Hill to the stone bridge over the River Dee.
2. Turn right at the finger post and follow the Dales Way for just short of a mile, turning left at farm buildings and following the path to the river.
3. Follow the Dales Way back alongside the river towards Dent before turning left to return into the car park.
If you’re wanting something a little shorter, try this easy half hour circular stroll:
1. Follow the same route out of the car park, walking along the lane through the heart of the village and along Beech Hill to the river.
2. This time, turn left at the finger post and follow the Dales Way along the river before turning left to return to the car park. n
Discover more about the history, landscape, wildlife and culture of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, including many other walking routes, at: yorkshiredales.org.uk
Photography: Mark Sadler
Photography: Mark Sadler
Photography: Sue Martin/Shutterstock.com
The warmer weather is coming to an end, the nights start to draw in and life returns to school winter term time routines. Shops will start focusing on Halloween, Christmas and Black Friday – and it’s not a bad idea to start early to spread the cost of Christmas, by buying presents when you see them. But what can we do to help ourselves to be ready for the months ahead?
Store away summer clothes and uniforms. Sort out what winter clothes and uniforms fit, are washed and ready to wear. Simultaneously make time for a good wardrobe clear out. Ensure homework is all done. Tidy the designated ‘working from home’ area. Get school supplies together and packed into
AUTUMNAL RESET
As summer nears its conclusion Rachel Cordingley, from A Tidy Mind, advises on preparing for the months ahead
school bags and stock up on pack-lunch drinks and snacks.
Stow away garden furniture.
Get out the snug rugs for cosy nights in and allocate the latter part of the day for quiet time, reading and screen down-time.
GET OUT THE SNUG RUGS FOR COSY NIGHTS IN AND ALLOCATE THE LATTER PART OF THE DAY FOR QUIET TIME, READING AND SCREEN DOWN-TIME
Read those recipe books for hearty soups and seasonal food menus.
Get the heaters out and log burners loaded for warmth. Position lamps and burn candles for hygge-mood lighting. Refresh bed linens adding warm blankets for earlier nights.
Lay clothes and uniforms out the night before, in readiness for waking up when it is still dark.
Essentially make your home less cluttered, more organised and functional. It has been proved that this improves people’s mental health and well-being. n
Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else –object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.
To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com
His latest collection are collages from recycled billboards and dry transfer lettering with original wording. He said about the artworks: “The large scale halftone printing, the torn forms, vivid colours and ripped edges are ideal to create purely abstract expressions, as opposed to the original advertising images.”
To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk
‘not in my gaze (but in my head)’ – 20x20cm Box Canvas
‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas ‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas
HERITAGE CHARM WITH A MODERN TOUCH
In the heart of the Ribble Valley, the family-run Greendale Teahouse & Rooms offers refined food, homely hospitality and countryside views that soothe the soul. Photography: Kirsten Platt
There are few places that manage to combine the technical cookery often found in fine dining with the embrace of genuine homeliness, but Greendale Teahouse & Rooms achieves just that. Tucked away between the Bowland villages of Chatburn and Downham, with Pendle Hill watching over from a distance, this family-run gem is the sort of place that makes you feel part of its story from the moment you step inside.
Greendale Teahouse & Rooms is run by Michael and Zoe, a couple whose pedigree includes experience in Michelin-starred kitchens. Their expertise is evident in every plate, yet it’s tempered by a warmth that only comes from running a business with family at its heart. Zoe’s parents, Caroline and Neil, play a vital role in the background, adding to that sense of home.
The setting is pure Ribble Valley charm. A grand bay window frames sweeping views across the valley towards the Yorkshire Dales, while a wood burner glows in the corner
during the chillier days of the year. Heritage colours and timeless décor give the dining room character without pretence. It is at once elegant and welcoming, the kind of place where walkers and cyclists happily swap stories over coffee while locals and visitors alike tuck into brunch or cake.
FOOD IS THE SOUL OF GREENDALE AND NOTHING HERE IS BOUGHT IN. BREAD, SAUCES, CAKES AND CHOCOLATES ARE ALL MADE BY HAND IN THEIR TINY KITCHEN
Food is the soul of Greendale, and nothing here is bought in. Bread, sauces, cake and chocolates, are all made by hand in their tiny kitchen. The menu flows easily from breakfast through to lunch, punctuated by exquisite baking. I tried one of Zoe’s delicate pastries alongside coffee from the Heavenly Coffee Company – and the pairing was faultless.
Michael’s cooking is rooted in simplicity and seasonality, with meats from Anne at Roy Porter Butchers and produce from the Downham Estate among the local treasures that appear on the plate.
Upstairs, four stylish bedrooms extend the Greendale welcome. Thoughtful touches, from Bath House toiletries to homemade chocolates and cafetière coffee, elevate the experience without ever straying from the homely ethos. The beds, complete with organic bamboo mattress toppers, promise a restful night after a day spent exploring.
And exploring is irresistible here. Clitheroe is only a short drive away, brimming with independent eateries, while La Locanda in Gisburn, a celebrated Italian restaurant, works in close partnership with Michael and Zoe. The Forest of Bowland lies ready to be discovered, making Greendale Teahouse & Rooms the ideal base for a short break.
Greendale is not about fuss or formality, but about sharing good food, warm hospitality and a sense of place. It is a reminder that simplicity, when executed with care, is often the most rewarding luxury of all. n
Greendale Teahouse & Rooms
Downham Road
Clitheroe BB7 4DL
greendaleteahouse.co.uk
Per Room
Lazy Sunday Autumn Escape...
Immerse yourself in the stunning autumnal scenery of the Yorkshire Dales.
YOUR OFFER INCLUDES:
• A stay in either a standard room, woodland glamping pod, deluxe room or family suite.
• Enjoy a Sunday Lunch or two-course meal complete with a bottle of house wine, then rise to a full Yorkshire breakfast.
• Enjoy use of our leisure club facilities between check-in and check-out, perfect for unwinding after a day on the hills.
• Treat yourself with a 10% discount on treatments at Long Ashes Pure Spa, ideal for easing stresses and strains.
Available on selected Sundays .
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TAKING THE FEAR OUT OF YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE
The thought of planning for retirement can be daunting. The subject of pensions can seem complex, packed with jargon and easy to ignore –but it doesn’t have to be that way, writes Katie Hammond
Whether just starting out in a career, approaching retirement, or managing wealth for future generations, having a clear financial plan can make all the difference in achieving peace of mind. And having recently combined her years of expertise and knowledge with equally renowned Bowcliffe Wealth Management, Sarah Siddons is keen to continue to remove the mental blocks for a long and healthy retirement.
She explains: “Since starting out in my career in 2008, I’ve been a passionate advocate of helping people to truly understand their financial options at every stage of life.
Removing barriers around understanding finances is essential – too many people find themselves approaching retirement age only
to discover that they simply haven’t saved enough money and my role is to make sure, through a simple conversation, that they can more easily understand their options.”
Why does starting this process early matter so much? For those in their 30s, pensions can feel like a far-off consideration. Yet, Sarah explains, this is exactly the age when good planning pays dividends.
THE KEY IS CLARITY. WHEN YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU’VE GOT AND HOW TO ACCESS IT, THE FEAR DISAPPEARS
“The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. A small change in your contributions or investments in your 30s can make a significant difference by the time you reach retirement. As you move into your 40s and 50s, you may be paying off a mortgage, supporting children through education, or thinking about when you’d like to retire. At this stage, you need to consider things like how much you’ve already built up in pensions, whether your current contributions align with your retirement goals and the tax efficiencies you might not be taking advantage of.”
Approaching retirement with confidence
in your 50s and 60s, attention naturally turns to how you’ll use your pension. Questions around this can feel overwhelming – but Sarah believes they don’t have to be.
“The key is clarity. When you understand what you’ve got and how to access it, the fear disappears. People often walk out of our conversations feeling lighter, because they can see the road ahead so much more clearly.
“Those who take financial advice and plan for their retirement can end up with pension pots that are twice as large as those who don’t. That’s the real value of starting the conversation early.”
Sarah’s message is simple – a pension plan doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful –it just starts with a chat.
“It’s always wonderful to see clients who have been worried about their financial affairs start to fully understand and take control of their own financial destiny – it’s empowering and life-changing,” she says. n
Sarah Siddons is a Senior Financial Adviser at Bowcliffe Wealth Management Ltd, a Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place offering personal and face to face advice to clients throughout the country.
bowcliffewm.co.uk
RELAX, RECONNECT & ENJOY
Goosnargh Lodge Park, tucked away just outside the historic village of Goosnargh, is a place where thoughtful design, rural tranquility and lifestyle aspirations all come together. Following the launch of their brand-new website in April, now is the perfect time to introduce this exceptional destination to readers of Live The Dales.
Once home to a golf course that opened in 2005, the site remained dormant during the uncertainty of the pandemic. In 2021, a new chapter began when the land was acquired with a vision to repurpose its potential. The result is something that feels both considered and connected to its surroundings.
Goosnargh Lodge Park has been developed with meticulous care, balancing quality infrastructure and bespoke design while keeping the natural beauty of the landscape at the heart of the project. From the outset, the aim was clear – to create a timeless sanctuary where owners can relax, reconnect and enjoy the peace and space that the countryside offers.
Central to the appeal of the park are the lodges themselves. Each one is hand-built to
In the heart of the Ribble Valley, where gently rolling hills meet timeless charm, a new opportunity for modern countryside living has quietly taken shape
exacting standards and created in partnership with leading manufacturers to ensure every detail is just right. No two plots are the same, and this variety is matched by a flexibility that appeals to a broad and growing audience.
These lodges are ideal for retirees seeking a manageable,
stress-free lifestyle without compromising on quality. They also suit those looking to gain a foothold in this stunning part of the world, surrounded by green space and some of the county’s finest scenery.
The lodges are contemporary, constructed in line with British Building Standards (BBS) ensuring
EACH LODGE IS HAND-BUILT TO EXACTING STANDARDS AND CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LEADING MANUFACTURERS
they are energy-efficient, with large picture windows and materials chosen to complement the natural palette of the park. The standard of finish throughout reflects an ambition to offer something above and beyond the norm. These are not holiday cabins or hastily built prefabs –they are stylish, comfortable lodges designed to last and adapt to changing needs.
There is a 52-week holiday licence, which offers the freedom to visit and enjoy the lodge throughout the year, without the restrictions that can often apply in more seasonal developments. Whether it becomes a weekend escape, a longer-term base or a semi-permanent retreat, the park’s flexible arrangements are designed with modern life in mind.
Beyond the lodges themselves, the infrastructure of the park has been developed with equal attention to detail. From roadways and landscaping to individual plot services and planting schemes, every decision reflects a commitment to quality and care. There’s a sense of spaciousness and privacy, yet also a natural flow and cohesion across the site. The result is a park that feels
settled, not sterile – a living, breathing part of the landscape that respects its surroundings and invites nature in.
Sustainability plays a central role in the development too. All exterior cladding on the lodges is made from 100 per cent recycled materials. Solar panels are in the pipeline to further reduce the park’s environmental footprint. Electric vehicle charging points are being introduced to meet future demand and the landscaping strategy includes wildflower planting to support biodiversity. These aren’t token gestures –they’re part of a wider ethos that aims to tread lightly and protect the beauty of the countryside for years to come.
The lifestyle on offer here is one that many aspire to but few achieve. Morning walks through peaceful lanes, afternoons spent exploring local pubs such as the charming Ye Horns Inn, alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll to neighbouring Mrs Kirkham’s Farm Shop and spend evenings gazing out at open skies – this is a place to relax and
breathe again. For many, it’s a way of escaping the noise and pressures of urban life while staying within easy reach of friends, family and amenities. With excellent local produce, a strong sense of community and access to some of Lancashire’s most scenic routes, Goosnargh Lodge Park offers not just a change of scenery, but a change of pace.
GOOSNARGH
getting the fundamentals right. It speaks to people who value quality and independence, who want somewhere they can truly call their own without compromise. The team behind the park are local, passionate and hands-on. They’re not part of a faceless national chain. They’re here, on site, involved –and that shows in every aspect of what’s been built so far.
LODGE PARK OFFERS
NOT JUST A CHANGE OF SCENERY, BUT A CHANGE OF PACE
There’s something quietly compelling about this project. It’s not about making noise or grand statements. It’s about thoughtful design, long-term vision and
Of course, the best way to understand what makes Goosnargh Lodge Park special is to experience it for yourself. A visit brings everything into
EXCLUSIVE PRESTIGE LODGES FOR SALE
AURA: £314,995
CASA DI LUSSO: £274,995
PLANTATION: £239,995
Set in premium positions within the park, these exceptional show lodges are ready to move into now. With limited availability and unmatched style, they offer a rare opportunity to secure your place in the heart of the Ribble Valley.
focus – the space, the views, the finishes, the calm. Later this summer, the team will be hosting an open day to showcase the lodges and share the vision with prospective buyers and curious locals alike. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore what could be a life-changing move. In the meantime, the website offers plenty of useful information and a glimpse into what’s already creating a buzz among early visitors. With a strong start to initial sales and enquiries growing each week, it’s clear that Goosnargh Lodge Park is striking a chord. n To arrange a private tour or learn more, visit the website or call 01772 211211. This could be the start of something very special.
Craven Wildlife Rescue has been at the forefront of caring for injured wild animals since 2019. Jill Franklin pays them a visit
Tucked away in the shadow of Pen-y-Ghent, in an unassuming building in Horton in Ribblesdale, is one of the safest refuges for wildlife in the Yorkshire Dales. “Most of the animals we care for are either red or amber listed,” says Penny Hunt, co-founder of Craven Wildlife Rescue. “It’s a joy and a huge challenge to look after as many animals as we do.”
Since 2019, CWR has become the first port of call for anyone finding an injured or sick animal in Craven district. “We cared
for 400 animals last year alone – including hedgehogs, owls and birds of prey, swans, otters, herons, deer and many other species,” adds co-founder Jane Carpenter. “They need our help because, typically, they have been injured (many hit by cars), diseased, poisoned, or are badly affected by climate change.
WHETHER WE HAVE TO KAYAK DOWN A RIVER TO AN INJURED SWAN, LAY IN WAIT FOR A BLEEDING OTTER, OR CROSS THE DALES TO NURSE A SICK HEDGEHOG,
WE WILL DO IT
The numbers are rising.” After taking care of injured wildlife in their homes, Penny and Jane joined forces to set up the rescue, which became a registered charity last year.
We are in the rescue’s main room, the ‘hospital’ area - and a team of volunteers are gently checking, feeding and cleaning every animal. “No two days are the same,” Penny says. “Today we have around 70 hedgehogs of all sizes, a badly-injured swan found tangled in fishing wire, five owls hit by cars, an oystercatcher with a broken leg and a kestrel with a broken wing, to name just a few. When an animal is found on our patch, it’s vital they get here straight away. Whether we have to kayak down a river to an injured swan, lay in wait for a bleeding otter, or cross the Dales to nurse a sick hedgehog, we will do it.” Many animals are brought in by the people who found them, but sometimes CWR uses its volunteer Transport Team to find, capture and carry the animals to safety.
“Behind every aspect of what we do is a brilliant volunteer,” adds Jane. “We have a band of over 30 volunteers who not only make sure the animals get the best possible care, but also run, promote and develop the organisation. We have no paid staff and rely entirely on donations for our existence.”
The phone rings – a baby hedgehog is on its way. Found alone and crying for his Mum, the tiny creature is welcomed with open arms. Smaller than the palm of a hand, it cries loudly for its mother. “The finder searched high and low for Mum, but no trace,” says Penny. “At just 96g, he can’t survive on his own.” The hoglet gets checked for injuries and parasites, hydrated with fluids, hand fed with special liquid food and placed in an incubator. “If he hadn’t been brought in, he would definitely have died,” adds Jane. “As hoglets need care around the clock, he’ll stay with one of our volunteer home carers. Once he can feed himself, he’ll return to the rescue until he’s ready for release. We’re
confident he’ll be enjoying the great outdoors, once he’s hit release weight.”
The rescue receives more hedgehogs than any other animal. “It’s ironic that the hedgehog is held in such huge affection, yet most people do so little to give them what they need,” says Jane. “There’s evidence that their population has declined by 75 per cent in rural areas since 2000. Like all wildlife, they need safe shelter, quiet, natural light and a chemical-free environment. If we want to keep hedgehogs in our countryside, we have to do more.”
IT’S IRONIC THAT THE HEDGEHOG IS HELD IN SUCH HUGE AFFECTION, YET MOST PEOPLE DO SO LITTLE TO GIVE THEM WHAT THEY NEED
“Autumn is pre-hibernation season, but usually when we get the sickest hedgehogs in,” explains Penny. “Hedgehogs should be feeding themselves up for their winter dormancy. We’re increasingly finding, though, that they’re staying active later in the year as temperatures stay above average for the season. Food, however, is dwindling then. Last autumn and early winter we admitted over 100 emaciated hedgehogs –all hungry, all too warm to hibernate. If you suspect you have hedgehogs in your garden, please feed them over the colder months. There is information in the blog section of our website about how and what to feed them. And, if you see a hedgehog out during the day, ring us immediately. A hog out in daylight is hardly ever good – they are likely starving, diseased, or even dying. The quicker you act, the quicker we can save them.”
“Our wildlife is becoming even more precious as the climate changes,” adds Jane. “Every life we save helps protect that species from future population decline – and the hedgehog is no exception.” n
FROM STRUGGLES TO SMILES
The Principle Trust Children’s Charity has provided thousands of free respite holidays for vulnerable children across Yorkshire. One family’s story shines a light on the life-changing difference these breaks make
When the Roberts family from Calderdale first stepped into a Principle Trust holiday home at Primrose Valley in Filey, it was the first time in years they had felt a sense of calm. Their 10-year-old daughter, Lucy, lives with autism, sensory processing difficulties and anxiety. For the family, day-to-day life is often defined by hospital appointments, school struggles and the stress of constant care.
“Life can feel like one endless cycle of firefighting,” said mum, Sarah. “We rarely get a break and when we do it’s often filled with stress or financial worry. To have a whole week where everything was taken care of, where Lucy felt safe and happy and where we could just be a family again, it was priceless.”
IT WAS A CHANCE TO BREATHE, TO MAKE MEMORIES WE’LL TREASURE FOREVER AND TO SEE OUR CHILDREN SMILE IN A WAY WE DON’T SEE OFTEN
During their stay, the Roberts explored the seaside together, enjoyed quiet family meals and most importantly, had time to reconnect. “It wasn’t just a holiday,” Sarah added. “It was a chance to breathe, to make memories we’ll treasure forever and to see our children smile in a way we don’t see often.”
This story is just one of thousands. Since 2011, The Principle Trust has provided over
5,700 free respite holidays for children and families across Yorkshire who are living with poverty, disability, trauma, serious illness, disabilities and mental health challenges. These breaks are far more than time away –they’re a lifeline.
Such impact would not be possible without the Skipton-based trust’s community of supporters. Local businesses, large and small, play a vital role through the charity’s Patrons Programme. Patrons pledge regular support, enabling the trust to maintain its seven holiday homes and reach more families every year.
Mike Davies MBE, Founder of The Principle Trust, said: “Our patrons are the heartbeat of the charity. Without their generosity, many families like the Roberts simply wouldn’t get a break. Every business that stands with us is helping transform lives – one child, one family, one holiday at a time.”
The trust operates under a unique 100 per cent donations policy, meaning every penny donated goes directly towards helping families in need. Overheads are covered, ensuring supporters’ contributions make maximum impact.
For businesses, getting involved isn’t just about giving back, it’s about joining a community of like-minded organisations making a tangible difference in their region. Patrons gain opportunities to connect with other supporters, attend flagship events and see firsthand the impact of their support. n
To find out how your business could help change lives for local children and families, visit the website or contact Kerry Magson at: kerry.magson@theprincipletrust.co.uk theprincipletrust.co.uk
5* Bed & Breakfast, Luxury Self Catering Cottages, two onsite restaurants, located in the Heart of the Yorkshire Dales
thesaddleroom.co.uk
Enjoy 25% off Self Catering Cottages through September, October & November when booking 3 nights or more
info@thesaddleroom.co.uk
COHABITATION AGREEMENTS –
OFFERING PROTECTION
Around 44 per cent of people incorrectly believe that cohabiting couples benefit from the same legal rights as married/civil partnership couples. Ann Hallmark, a senior solicitor in Walker Foster’s legal team, discussed the importance of cohabitation agreements
The law in England and Wales does not currently recognise those in cohabiting relationships as having the same legal status as married/ civil partnership couples, irrespective of the length of the relationship. Therefore, it is very important that a couple planning to cohabit, particularly if they are buying a house together, plan accordingly to ensure they are clear as to what will happen financially if their relationship ends.
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legal contract entered into by two people who live together in a cohabiting relationship but are not married or in a civil partnership. However, such agreements would work equally for friends or relations who wish to purchase a property together. A cohabitation agreement outlines how finances, property and other shared responsibilities will be managed both during the relationship and in the event of relationship breakdown.
RELATIONSHIPS CAN CHANGE AND AN AGREEMENT PROTECTS BOTH PARTIES AND CAN REDUCE CONFLICT SITUATIONS ARISING
Sometimes referred to as ‘living together agreements’, a cohabitation agreement can offer clarity and peace of mind by defining each partner’s rights and obligations and so minimising the risk of future legal disputes.
Why are Cohabitation Agreements Important?
Couples or joint owners buying a property together are usually in either a life relationship or a relationship of trust and often do not contemplate that financial disputes might arise if the relationship breaks down. Such disputes can be very costly emotionally and financially for cohabitees, so being absolutely clear as to their intentions at the offset can help avoid misunderstandings or disputes. A cohabitation agreement can help to :
• Clearly define ownership of the property itself – eg respective shares.
• Indicate how bills and expenses will be split.
• Define each party’s financial contributions (eg to the mortgage, utilities, renovations etc).
• Specify what will happen in the event of relationship breakdown or death.
Key Components of a Cohabitation Agreement
Property Ownership
This section details who owns what at the start of the cohabitation and perhaps also what will happen to other property acquired during the relationship.
Living Expenses and Bills
This section outlines how rent, mortgage payments, utilities, groceries and other daily expenses will be divided. It can also address what happens if one partner loses their income or faces a financial emergency.
Financial Contributions
If one partner who may not be a legal owner, for example, or has contributed a lesser share of the purchase price, is contributing to the other’s mortgage, renovations etc, the agreement can clarify whether this counts as a gift, loan, or investment and whether those contributions are intended to give the donor a beneficial interest in the property itself perhaps, which is where a large number of disputes can arise.
Debts and Liabilities
The agreement should state whether each partner is responsible for their own debts or whether certain liabilities are shared. This protects both parties from being held responsible for the other’s financial obligations, particularly where grey areas might exist.
Separation and Dispute Resolution
Perhaps the most crucial part of the agreement, this section outlines what happens if the couple separates. It can specify how assets will be divided, who will move out/buy the other out if possible (pre-emption rights) or dealing with the proceeds of sale and how financial responsibilities will continue until that time. Some agreements include dispute resolution clauses such as mediation or arbitration.
Death or Incapacity
The agreement can specify what happens in the event of one partner’s death or incapacitation. However, it should be supported by other legal documents like a will and/or power of attorney for full legal protection.
Legal Validity and Enforceability
To be legally binding, a cohabitation agreement must adhere to the usual principles which apply to creating a legally binding contract in England and Wales including : Consent. Both parties must enter the agreement willingly and without any
form of pressure or duress from the other.
• Full disclosure. Each partner must disclose their financial situation as may be relevant to the agreement.
• Independent legal advice. It strengthens the agreement if both parties obtain independent legal advice to ensure that they understand the nature of the agreement they are entering into.
• Signing the agreement. As verbal agreements are difficult to prove, a written, signed, and dated document provides the best evidence should a dispute arise.
A COHABITATION AGREEMENT MAY NOT BE SEEN AS THE MOST ROMANTIC OR TRUSTING OF GESTURES, BUT IT IS A POWERFUL TOOL FOR PROTECTING BOTH PARTIES’ INTERESTS AND PROMOTING HONEST AND OPEN COMMUNICATION
What are the benefits of a Cohabitation Agreement?
Clarity and Transparency. By putting everything in writing, both partners understand their rights and responsibilities.
Financial Protection. The agreement protects each person’s financial interests and reduces the risk of one party being unfairly disadvantaged following separation.
Conflict Resolution. In the event of a dispute, a cohabitation agreement can simplify the resolution process, potentially avoiding costly and stressful court battles.
Estate Planning. A cohabitation agreement can also complement other legal protections such as wills and insurance policies.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
We don’t need an agreement – we trust each other Relationships can change and an agreement protects both parties and can reduce conflict situations arising.
These agreements are only for the wealthy Cohabitation agreements are useful for everyone, arguably they are even more important in cases where assets are modest, as disputes are expensive. Even assets like furniture and – increasingly commonplace – shared care of pets, can become highly contentious following a relationship breakdown.
Isn’t it tempting fate?
Entering into such an agreement doesn’t mean you anticipate separating, or see it as inevitable, it means that you are being responsible and realistic about potential future scenarios. After all, most people accept that insurance policies for their cars, homes, holidays and other major events like weddings are a sensible necessity.
Timing of Cohabitation Agreements
Ideally, the agreement should be made before moving in together or early in the cohabitation period. However, it is never too late and cohabitees can potentially enter into one at any stage.
Major life events such as having a child, or receiving an inheritance are also good times to enter into, revisit or update such an agreement.
Conclusion
A cohabitation agreement may not be seen as the most romantic or trusting of gestures, but it is a powerful tool for protecting both parties’ interests and promoting honest and open communication. 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
LET’S TAKE A RIDE…
Starting in Dent, this 32 km mountain bike route takes riders beneath the two famous viaducts of Ribblehead and Arten Gill, which are part of the Settle to Carlisle railway line
The route involves a big climb up a largely stone track and trail called the Craven Way, which crosses a remote section of moorland before the drop down to Ribblehead viaduct. Part of the descent is a technical drop down a stone pitched section, which some may find a push.
After Ribblehead the route follows a section of bridleway before climbing on to the side of Wold Fell. A rocky descent leads down Arten Gill into the valley, before a gentle run back to Dent.
DENT BY MOUNTAIN BIKE
Start and finish: Dent village or Ribblehead
Distance: 32km (19 miles)
Toilets: Dent Car Park
Pubs and cafes: Dent, Ribblehead Nearest train station: Ribblehead and Dent station (although this is not in the village)
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
1. Turn left out of Dent car-park, over the cobbles – and turn right just after the George and Dragon pub. Leave the village and at a
junction keep left signed Cowgill. Follow this road for 0.7km (1 /2 mile) and pass a small conifer plantation on your right. At the end of the plantation there is a chapel hidden in the trees – turn right up the unsigned road here.
2. After 250 metres turn left onto the bridleway signed The Craven Way to Ribblehead. This is the start of a big climb up onto Great Wold which starts as a good track to an aerial and then becomes a tougher proposition. Follow the trail over a fantastic variety of surfaces taking in superb views. The descent is quick and has a couple of entertaining stone pitched sections (you may want to walk) down to where things level out. Follow the now well
surfaced track alongside the Settle-Carlisle railway line. Just after passing a house look out for a right turn with bridleway sign under the railway.
3. Drop towards a farm through a ford. Go past the first farm and at a track junction turn left. In a short distance, turn left again over a bridge and follow the track under Ribblehead viaduct to meet the road.
4. Turn left and follow this busy road for 3km (2 miles). Just after a little dip turn left onto a tarmac drive up to High Gayle Farm. Where the drive goes left, the bridleway carries straight on. Follow the bridleway for a further 2km to meet a minor road.
5. Turn right and then left after 400 metres onto a restricted byway. This climbs to a gate and then contours round Swineley Cow before dropping to meet a walled stone track.
6. Turn left and go through the gate and head downhill crossing a series of stone pitched fords, before passing under Arten Gill viaduct.
7. At the bottom of the track continue ahead through the tiny hamlet of Stonehouse. When you meet the road turn right, pass over the narrow arched bridge, and cycle down the valley to Dent. n
Photography: Mark Sadler
Photography: Wendy McDonnell
Day 1: UK - Porto (Portugal)
Fly from the UK to Porto, Portugal’s secondlargest city. Portugal is one of Europe’s warmest countries and boasts a mix of vibrant art, music, wine and food, as well as endless sunny days. Be met at the airport and transferred to your river ship, the MS Estrela. Tonight, meet your fellow travellers and Travelmarvel Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception as you take in the sights along the Douro River on a sunset cruise.
Day 2: Regua - Lamego - Pinhao
Begin cruising along the spectacular Douro River. Flowing from the northern reaches of Spain, through Portugal and into the Atlantic, this river is bordered by countless vineyards. As you cruise this morning, you’ll take part in a Portuguese language lesson, to learn some essential phrases. This afternoon you’ll visit the picturesque village of Lamego and the elaborately decorated baroque cathedral, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies.
Day 3: Vega de Terron (Spain) - Castelo Rodrigo
Today, cruise across the border into Vega de Terron in Spain. Enjoy some time at leisure before joining an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo. This tiny village sits atop a hill overlooking both Spain and Portugal and features many well-preserved ruins, an impressive castle and a magnificent stone statue of Santiago Matamoros.
Day 4: Salamanca - Barca d’Alva
Today you’ll disembark and board a coach to the glorious Spanish city of Salamanca. This gorgeous city is arguably one of the most beautiful in Spain, and boasts sunlit sandstone buildings, a majestic city square and an ancient university. Back on board this evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese BBQ dinner.
Day 5: Pinhao - Regua
This morning, enjoy a fascinating history lecture as your ship cruises past Pinhao to Regua. After your Insider Experience on arrival in Regua, this afternoon, enjoy a guided tour in Regua followed by free time to visit the Douro Museum.
Day 6: Regua - Mateus Palace - Entre-os-Rios
Join an excursion to the splendid Gardens and Palace of Mateus and discover the connection between this beautiful 18th-century palace and Mateus Rose. Afterwards, continue to the charming riverside town of Entre-os-Rios.
Tonight, be treated to an energetic performance of traditional Portuguese folk music at a special Captain’s Dinner.
Day 7: Vila Nova de Gaia - Porto
After breakfast, cruise back to the enchanting city of Vila Nova de Gaia. On arrival, join a fascinating tour of nearby Porto, and visit a local port winery for a tour and tasting. This evening, enjoy a final Farewell Dinner with your new-found friends.
Day 8: Porto - UK
After enjoying a final breakfast on board, transfer to the airport in Porto for your return flight to the UK.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
As it marks its 95th birthday Skipton Rotary has plenty to celebrate – with a long history of doing good, locally, nationally and internationally. Here a spokesperson talks about its work
For almost a century Skipton Rotary has been a driving force for good in Skipton and the surrounding area. Since 1930, our members have brought people together to support charities, champion young people and help communities in need both locally and globally.
Fundraising and Community Support
At the heart of our work is raising funds and delivering projects that make a real difference. Our most popular initiative is the Charity Car Park, kindly supported by Skipton Building Society. Open Saturdays from March to October, plus Bank Holidays and special events, it donates 100 per cent of proceeds to local causes.
Over the years, we’ve supported organisations such as Brooklands School, SELFA (Skipton Extended Learning for All) and Craven Community Boxing. Another highlight is Skipton Eco Day, a lively event promoting sustainability and environmental awareness, bringing together businesses, groups and residents.
Championing Young People
Inspiring the next generation is one of our greatest joys. Our annual competitions Young Musician, Young Chef and Youth Speaks help young people showcase their talents, gain confidence and develop skills. We also broaden horizons through initiatives like the Ocean Youth Trust, offering life changing voyages at sea and the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a teamwork and outdoor leadership programme that builds resilience and self-belief.
OUR VISION EXTENDS WORLDWIDE. WE SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL
HUMANITARIAN PROJECTS, FROM DISASTER RELIEF AND MEDICAL AID TO EDUCATION IN VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES
GREAT SKIPTON SANTA FUN RUN
SUNDAY 30th NOVEMBER – 11am
The charity run and walk is organised by Rotary in Skipton (Skipton Craven Rotary and Skipton Rotary).
Visit skiptonsantafunrun.com to register. The event consists of a 5km course around Skipton, through Aireville Park and Skipton Woods, or a 3km wheelchair friendly route through Aireville Park.
Making a Global Impact
Our vision extends worldwide. We support international humanitarian projects, from disaster relief and medical aid to education in vulnerable communities. A cause close to our hearts is Rotary International’s End Polio Now Campaign. Locally, we’ve planted purple crocuses at Holy Trinity Churchyard as part of the Purple for Polio campaign, a reminder of progress towards eradicating this disease.
Corporate Membership –A New Chapter
We’ve recently launched Corporate Membership, enabling businesses to pay for one membership and nominate up to four employees to join Rotary activities. It’s a great way for organisations to give back, build connections and offer staff valuable experiences. Several companies have already joined and are making an impact.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to take part: Membership – Join a welcoming group making a difference.
Corporate Membership – Engage your business and team.
Volunteering – Support events and fundraisers when you can. n
Find out more at: skiptonrotary.org or contact david.newall@skiptonrotary.org
Plans include 10 treatment rooms, a 25m indoor pool which, with the press of a button, will be an outdoor pool when the weather allows, a magnesium pool, cold plunge pools, wild swimming and a Himalayan salt steam room and indoor and outdoor infrared saunas.
Above on the first floor will be a state-ofthe-art 5,000 sq ft technogym with 360 degree views. Additional fitness facilities will include Pilates and yoga studio and a sports rehabilitation centre.
PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB
Plans are underway for a new £35m private members club, which will bring world class wellness facilities to the Ribble Valley
Amber and Guy Hindley’s vision for their 1000 acre historic Gisburne Park Estate is coming to fruition. They will be working alongside renowned designer Rita Konig restoring the magnificent Georgian mansion house to its former glory while creating a private members club, 40-key boutique hotel and wellness club.
“Our members will be able to indulge in a lifestyle in a location that rivals the best in the world. Whatever one wants to focus on, fitness or fun, we will create a club and a community that will harness it all. We will be the best of a traditional country club integrating the latest health, fitness and holistic wellbeing,” says Amber, who has a wealth of experience in both environments.
Guy, the great-grandson of British Home
Store founder Harold Hindley, grew up on the historic 1,000-acre estate and inherited it in 2003 as a dilapidated hunting property –once frequented by historical figures including Oliver Cromwell, Winston Churchill and King Charles III.
LIFESTYLE GYMS ARE BECOMING THE FRONTLINE OF PREVENTION, PERFORMANCE AND DAILY WELLBEING
In the mid-1990s, the family sold the estate’s Grade I-listed Georgian mansion. However, the Hindleys later repurchased the property with the intention of creating an exclusive private members club.
Drawing inspiration from top private members clubs in London, New York and Los Angeles, the couple estimate realising the wellness club and hotel will require an additional £35 million investment.
A new 40,000 sq ft purpose-built wellness club will be positioned on the edge of the Victorian walled garden. The club will combine fitness, spa, wellness and the latest biohacking amenities with natural therapy, nutritious food and community events.
Members will also have access to a suite of modern biohacking and longevity technology including red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cold immersion therapy, Vasper compression therapy, Live02 Exercise With Oxygen Therapy (EWOT) and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.
Amber adds: “The gym is being reimagined. Fitness spaces are becoming integrated health platforms combining diagnostics, recovery coaching and community under one roof. Our mission is to blend healthcare and lifestyle as gyms are now becoming the frontline of prevention, performance and daily wellbeing. Our members are turning up with goals beyond a simple workout. The future of fitness isn’t facility it’s a full-service.” n
The Hindleys plan to submit a formal planning application in October 2025.
TYING THE KNOT –CHANGING NAME?
For centuries taking your husband’s name on marriage was assumed – but with a wider variety of modern partnerships, new options and opinions, Kate Bowyer ‘marries’ some historical and contemporary trends
First the proposal, now comes the discussion. Who changes their surname? Do you keep your own name? Go double barrelled? Amalgamate?
Centuries-long tradition states that in heterosexual partnerships (the only coupling formalised in British law until same-sex civil partnerships in 2005) a woman takes her husband’s name, but that is not necessarily still the case.
While the first recorded marriage in Britain is difficult to pinpoint exactly, one notable early example, dating back to 1100, is that of King Henry I to Matilda of Scotland – the first royal wedding in Westminster Abbey. The Scottish princess had been christened Edith but she took the regnal Norman name Matilda – quite likely in deference to her husband who was a son of William the Conqueror.
Taking on a different first name in marriage is not something most of us would ever think about – but the tradition of the bride taking her husband’s surname has
long been commonplace.
Norman rule brought with it the concept of ‘coverture’, derived from feudal custom that made a woman subordinate to her husband in marriage. Everything a woman brought to the marriage, or produced after – including her children – became her husband’s property. Coverture was gradually
THE UK IS ACTUALLY BEHIND THE CURVE –RETAINING ONE’S SURNAME IS THE NORM FOR WOMEN IN MANY SPANISH-SPEAKING COUNTRIES, AS WELL AS MALAYSIA AND KOREA
dismantled over the last 200 years, with the taking of the male surname coming under increasing scrutiny and critique, especially from the 1970s feminist movement.
Running at over 90 per cent until the millennium, a November 2024 UK Deed Poll Office survey reported women taking their husband’s name dropping to 60 per cent
(with 16 per cent of men changing their name on marriage). In continuing generational change, according to a recent YouGov poll, only 35 per cent of women aged 18 – 34 state this intention.
The UK is actually behind the curve –retaining one’s surname is the norm for women in many Spanish-speaking countries, as well as Malaysia and Korea. Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy all enshrine in law that women officially retain their names after marriage (with the option to tag their husband’s surname on).
What other options are there? Doublebarrelling appears the most popular, but with increasing ubiquity, has lost cachet. Then there’s the potential polysyllabic smorgasbord when two hyphenated offspring themselves couple up.
Name blending could mean a small tweak, like Dawn Porter becoming Dawn O’Porter on marrying Chris O’Dowd, or ‘meshing’ into a completely new portmanteau. Then comes the question of what to hand on to our children? In Iceland, children’s surnames are typically formed of a parent’s first name, adding ‘son’ or ‘dóttir’ as applicable. Choosing to retain their own surnames, comedians Josie Long and Jonny Donahue have combined the first three letters to give their offspring the new surname ‘London’.
Perhaps we should take inspiration from redoubtable Skipton-born 17th-century noblewomen Lady Anne Clifford, who steadfastly retained her birth name and title throughout a tempestuous life, two marriages and five pregnancies! n
ULTIMATE WEDDING TIMELINE
From the moment you say yes to the blissful post-honeymoon glow, this guide walks you through the perfect UK wedding timeline without the stress
Getting engaged is one of those magical moments you’ll remember forever. But after the champagne glasses are washed, reality sets in. Planning a wedding can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. The trick to staying sane is to break it all down into a simple timeline so you know exactly what needs doing and when.
The journey starts as soon as you’ve shared the happy news. Celebrate with friends and family, then start thinking about the practical bits. Setting a budget early is vital. It will guide every decision you make, from the size of your guest list to the venue you choose. Top spots can book up well over a year in advance, so it’s wise to lock in your date as soon as you can. If the idea of managing every detail yourself feels daunting, you could bring a wedding planner on board to help steer the ship.
About nine to 12 months before the big day is the time to secure your key suppliers.
Photographers, caterers and entertainment providers can get snapped up quickly, so book them early. This is also when the fun of dress shopping begins. Make it an experience to share with close friends or family, and don’t forget to research the legal requirements for your ceremony, especially if it’s religious or abroad. Sending out save-the-dates now gives your guests the best chance of keeping the date free.
A GOOD WEDDING TIMELINE TURNS PLANNING FROM STRESSFUL CHAOS INTO A JOYFUL
COUNTDOWN
As you move into the six-to-nine-month window, it’s time to finalise the rest of your suppliers, like florists, cake makers and stationers. Hair and makeup trials should be booked so you can see how you’ll look on the
day. Outfits for bridesmaids and groomsmen can be chosen now too. Invitations should be ordered so you’re ready for the next stage.
With three to six months to go, the legal side needs attention. In the UK you must give notice at your local registry office, please be mindful that there’s a set timeframe for doing this. Menu tastings can help you fine-tune your reception meal and it’s the perfect time to choose readings and music for your ceremony.
One to two months before, send out your invitations, schedule final fittings and put pen to paper on vows or speeches. A detailed timeline for the wedding day itself can help everyone know where they need to be. Organising a hen or stag do around this time keeps the celebrations rolling.
In the final fortnight, confirm guest numbers, break in your wedding shoes and pack for your honeymoon. A rehearsal, while not essential, can calm nerves.
Then the day arrives. The best advice? Breathe, be present and enjoy every moment. After all, you’ve earned it. Once the confetti has settled, send out thank-you cards, update your name if you’re changing it and leave reviews for your suppliers. n
#LOVEANDLAUGHTER
TAKE A BREATH, FEEL THE CALM
MAGICAL MINI MOONS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Sometimes, it’s good to have a little luxury and a quiet moment to relax, breathe and let go. At Gilpin, our Spa Suites and Spa Lodges are designed to give you just that. Unwind in the luxury of your own private spa, away from it all.
MAGICAL MINI MOONS
Designed for pure indulgence and relaxation, these huge suites are perfect for mini moons, holiday moons, baby moons, recovery moons – any moons! During your three night ‘moon’, we’ll make sure every moment feels special, with Champagne (of course), spa hampers, spa treatments, Pure Lakes Experiences (creating your own bespoke products), and both Michelin-starred and pan Asian dining.
THE GILPIN EXPERIENCE
Nestled in the beauty of the Lake District, each Spa Suite and Spa Lodge offers comfort, privacy and time to really relax. We’ll take care of everything – so you can rest, recharge, and feel a little more like yourself.
NOURISH YOURSELF WITH A LITTLE LUXURY
Exceptional WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Magnificent venues in stunning locations across the North West.
Whether large or small, this year or next, whatever you’re planning, you can be assured: we’ll always make it all about you.
DREAM WEDDING SHOWCASES
Eaves Hall • Wennington Hall • Falcon Manor 14th September 12pm-4pm
Mitton Hall • Shireburn Arms • Holmes Mill 28th September 12pm-4pm
From open events to private tours, we’re here to help you plan your dream day.
Visit the website or scan the QR code for the latest dates and details.
MINI MOON PERFECTION
Checking into Bailey Hut for our five-day Mini Moon, we discovered a handcrafted slice of luxury nestled in the Ribble Valley, offering cosy comfort, countryside charm and thoughtful touches galore, writes Kate Hughes
If you’re dreaming of romance, seclusion and a touch of magic, Bailey Hut is the perfect mini moon hideaway. Tucked into the lush folds of the Ribble Valley, this little gem is more than just a shepherd’s hut –it’s a retreat, a delight and quite possibly the most lovingly designed space I’ve ever stayed in.
After our wedding, my husband Thomas and I couldn’t have wished for a more enchanting escape. From the moment we stepped inside, it felt like the world slowed down. Think warm wood, twinkling lights and handcrafted details. Every element feels deeply personal, from the soft linen bedding to the hand-thrown pottery. Zoe, the owner, has poured love into every corner and it shows.
The bed? A dream. Deep mattress, heavenly pillows and underfloor heating that kept us cosy even when the valley mist rolled in. We’d spend lazy mornings with coffee and books from Zoe’s little library, music playing from the Roberts bluetooth speaker, feeling like the only two people in the world. The kitchen has everything needed for romantic meals in or a simple champagne breakfast, which Zoe organised so beautifully for us. Farm-fresh eggs, homemade jam and sourdough to die for. And the gin? Also homemade. Also fabulous!
The en-suite bathroom is unexpectedly spacious, with a walk-in shower, plush towels and robes and divine-smelling eco toiletries from Bright Earth. A daily ritual of hot showers, soft robes and coffee in the garden became our routine.
Outside, the private garden offers delightful views, we toasted marshmallows by the firepit, sipped wine under the stars and wandered across fields to the pub. Every evening felt like a scene from a love story.
Zoe’s honesty shop deserves its own mention, part rustic pantry, part boutique. Stocked with local goodies, wine, chutney and handmade treats – it’s also a drying room for wet boots after long country strolls.
One of our wedding guests had arranged a surprise wedding gift with Zoe. Two handthrown mugs, just like the ones in the hut, wrapped to perfection and waiting for us with a note. It was an unforgettable touch. If there’s anything you’d like to arrange, gifts, romantic extras, or a surprise for your partner, Zoe will go above and beyond to make it happen.
IT’S
A RETREAT, A DELIGHT AND QUITE POSSIBLY THE MOST LOVINGLY DESIGNED SPACE I’VE EVER STAYED IN
Perfectly located to enjoy all the Ribble Valley has to offer, Bailey Hut is built for lovers, walkers and anyone in search of stillness. For us, it was a romantic, luxurious retreat with thoughtful touches at every turn. Five nights flew by in a haze of peace, laughter and countryside magic.
For newlyweds, it’s a dream mini moon. For anyone else, it’s still a slice of heaven you won’t want to leave.
Thank you, Zoe and Bailey Hut, for the perfect start to our married life! n
Bailey Huts
2 Bailey Cottages
Clitheroe Road, Mitton BB7 9PL 07973 211201
stay@baileyhuts.com baileyhuts.com
@baileyhuts
SECLUDED 10 ACRE VALLEY | LUXURY ACCOMMODATION | 24M LONG TRADITIONAL SAILTENT MARQUEE | COMFORTABLY SEATING 250 GUESTS
HERITAGE AND EXCELLENCE
As the new academic year begins, Live The Dales takes a look at some of the area’s most celebrated schools, each with a long and proud history, yet focused firmly on the future
For hundreds of years schools in and around the Yorkshire Dales have been offering a top class education –and making a name for themselves in the process. Here we focus on just four of the area’s outstanding establishments.
AYSGARTH SCHOOL:
Tradition with Forward Vision
Founded in 1877 Aysgarth is one of England’s leading prep schools. Its co-educational nursery and pre-prep cater for the youngest learners, but the prep school remains one of the few all-boys boarding schools in the north of England.
Academically, the school blends a rigorous curriculum with tailored support. Pupils prepare for the 13+ Common Entrance examinations while enjoying enrichment from Shakespeare workshops to environmental debates.
A recent merger with Rugby School has strengthened Aysgarth’s financial position, allowing investment in facilities and teaching while preserving its ethos.
Looking ahead, the school aims to safeguard childhood in a digital world, keeping days active, screen-light and rich in real-world experiences.
“We aim to develop confident communicators, nurture natural inquisitiveness and deliver engaging lessons that promote critical thinking,” says Debbie Stanford, Head of Admissions, Brand and Marketing.
BELMONT GROSVENOR SCHOOL: Joyful Learning in a Family Setting
Founded in 1908 and set within historic Swarcliffe Hall near Harrogate, once home to Emily Brontë during a brief spell as a governess, Belmont Grosvenor School (BGS) is an independent co-educational prep school and nursery for children aged three months to 11 years.
Surrounded by 20 acres of landscaped grounds, BGS combines academic ambition with a strong sense of family and community. Its six core values – down-to-earth, ambitious, nurturing, resilient, inclusive and joyful –underpin every aspect of life. While proud of its heritage, BGS has a forward-thinking
curriculum that equips children with skills for a fast-changing world, from digital literacy to environmental awareness.
Headteacher Sian de Gracia joined 13 years ago and took the top role in 2024. She leads a close-knit community where every child is known, valued and challenged. “Children thrive here because we balance high academic expectations with deep emotional understanding,” says Sian. “We want them to leave as confident learners and kind, curious human beings – and they’ll always remain part of the BGS family.”
GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL: Heritage Meets Individuality
Nestled in 215 acres of Dales countryside, Giggleswick boasts over 500 years of history and a commitment to producing confident, well-rounded learners. It offers education from pre-school to age 18, with both day and boarding options.
Headmaster Sam Hart, a well-travelled, sports-loving former helicopter pilot, champions ambition, respect and participation as core values. “Our approach to education
combines excellent academic achievement, ambition and strong self-belief, creating well rounded individuals with a lifelong desire to learn,” he says.
This celebration of individuality runs through both academic and co-curricular life, from theatre productions to outdoor adventures. Modern facilities sit alongside historic architecture, creating a school where ambition is encouraged, talents are nurtured and friendships last a lifetime.
SEDBERGH SCHOOL: Five Centuries of Excellence
Set against the backdrop of the Howgill Fells, Sedbergh has been educating young people since 1525. In 2025 it celebrates its 500th anniversary – and in 2026, 25 years as a co-educational school. Recent accolades include being named European School of the Year at the Study Travel Awards 2025 and receiving an ‘outstanding’ ISI boarding inspection.
Accepting pupils from age three to 18, with boarding from eight upwards, Sedbergh blends centuries-old traditions with a modern,
outward-looking ethos. Its four core values –humility, ambition, resilience and kindness –are deeply embedded in daily life. The academic programme is broad, well-resourced and balanced with personal growth, independence and responsibility. Teachers often live on or near campus, creating a close-knit community where staff and pupils share in daily life.
Sedbergh’s 300-acre campus provides for both study and adventure, from outdoor pursuits to a thriving arts and music scene. Its sporting reputation is exceptional, producing alumni such as Harry Brook, Will Carling, Will Greenwood, Abbie Ward and Cameron Redpath.
“Our curriculum offers opportunities for a broad academic study in an inspiring and well-equipped learning environment,” says Head Master Dan Harrison.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT
SCHOOL IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT
DECISIONS
A PARENT WILL EVER MAKE
Challenges and Opportunities
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a parent will ever make. In and close to the Yorkshire Dales, these four schools blend heritage with modern needs, nurturing character, curiosity and global outlook, supported by strong reputations, loyal alumni and inspiring landscapes beyond exam results. n
EDUCATION NEWS
HEAD STARTS
SCHOOL’S NEW CHAPTER
Harrogate Ladies’ College has announced it will extend its co-ed provision into senior school from September 2026. At the same time the school, along with its associated junior school, Highfield Prep School, will operate under the new name of Duchy College. This new chapter will also see further developments to the school’s campus and academic provision from September 2026 – including the opening of a brand new sixth form centre, which will offer individual study spaces, an extended sports provision, a new baccalaureate programme running from prep school into senior school and an enhanced co-ed ‘boutique’ boarding environment.
As Queen Mary’s School in North Yorkshire celebrates its centenary, it welcomes a new Head, Fe Beadnell, who brings a bold vision for girls’ education. A passionate advocate for female leadership, Fe is launching a dedicated programme to equip pupils with real-world skills – confidence, creativity, emotional intelligence and resilience. “Girls thrive here – they lead in their own way,” she says. With its allgirls environment, Queen Mary’s continues to inspire future leaders across industries. It is ranked a Top 10 school for girls under 16.
FULL STEAM AHEAD
EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS
Stonyhurst is celebrating another year of exceptional A level results, with 80 per cent of pupils achieving grades A* - B, including 51 per cent at A* - A. These outstanding results have secured places at leading UK and international universities, including Oxford (with an Organ Scholarship), Durham, York, CUNEF and the University of St Gallen in Switzerland, to name just a few. Pupils are going on to study diverse courses such as Medicine, Law, Economics, Music, Architecture and Computer Science. A school spokesperson said: “We are hugely proud of our young people, who leave ready to embrace the world beyond school as ‘men and women for others’.”
From September 2025, pupils in Figures, Rudiments and Lower Grammar (Years 7-9) will embark on Stonyhurst’s new STEAM curriculum. Combining science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, this exciting interdisciplinary programme encourages creativity, curiosity and collaboration. Pupils will explore real-world challenges through hands-on projects such as raft building, rocket crafting and greenhouse design, while also engaging in competitions, enrichment activities and careers exploration. A spokesperson said: “Rooted in our Jesuit values of Quant Je Puis, Men and Women for Others and Academic Excellence, the curriculum aims to inspire the next generation of innovators. We cannot wait to see what they achieve.”
HISTORY IN THEIR HANDS
At Stonyhurst, the rare, historic collections can be touched, examined and brought vividly to life during lessons, giving even the youngest pupils the opportunity to learn from the past
Nestled impressively within the historic halls of Stonyhurst College, lies a museum and archive like no other. It spans centuries, crosses continents and holds within it not just rare and priceless objects, but the power to educate and inspire. The Stonyhurst Collections, now one of the most significant educational collections in the UK, began humbly in 1609 with a single golden cope.
That first object marked the beginning of a story shaped by upheaval, devotion and resilience.
“During the Reformation, the school, which was then in the Spanish Netherlands, received precious objects through the parents of English boys who were sent there,” explains Dr. Jan Graffius, the curator of the Stonyhurst Collections. “These objects were connected to the Catholic faith and were being destroyed in England along with the abbeys and monasteries.”
Now, more than 400 years later, the collection has grown into an extraordinary archive of around 100,000 books, 40,000
manuscripts and 70,000 artefacts. Each piece tells a story, whether it’s a 4,000-yearold flint spearhead or a fossilised tooth of a woolly mammoth.
“The Jesuits have always recognised that objects have the power to illuminate and inspire. Many objects are of symbolic value,” explains Jan who firmly believes in making history come alive for pupils – not as untouchable artefacts behind glass, but as part of their daily learning.
PUPILS LOOK AT AND HANDLE THESE OBJECTS AND SEE THERE IS REASON FOR EVERYTHING – THEY ARE CAREFULLY DESIGNED AND ENGINEERED
To that end, Jan created the Junior Curators Scheme. Aimed at pupils aged nine and 10, it introduces them to the fundamentals of curating – from object handling to interpretation.
“These are all transferable skills that encourage communication,” she says.
Children may find themselves holding a Greek drinking cup from the first century AD, discovered in the ashes of Pompeii.
“The whole point of a Jesuit education is to observe, absorb and learn.”
And learn they do – be it through books, ancient manuscripts, fossils, flint and even taxidermy. Stonyhurst houses part of the Waterton Collection, a notable array of preserved animals collected by Victorian explorer Charles Waterton.
“Pupils get a bit freaked out by them sometimes!” Jan laughs. “But they learn about methods of preservation, how they come to be in the collection and how explorers back then travelled the world to learn about them. They went to the jungles of India and the forests of the Amazon – so this teaches pupils about the natural world.”
In a typical lesson, Jan may present a 50-million-year-old fossilised tooth from a megalodon shark: “What do you think that is?” she asks pupils. The answer is rarely guessed but always sparks curiosity. “The tooth opens a door to palaeontology – just one of many subjects woven into the lessons.”
She also shows them a Neolithic flint spearhead, pointing out the slightly curved shape. “Cavemen were far from stupid,” she says. “The curve makes the spearhead spin, giving it torque – so it does more damage when hunting.
“Pupils look at and handle these objects and see there is reason for everything – they are carefully designed and engineered.”
Stonyhurst’s Shakespeare First Folio sits proudly in a sturdy glass cabinet along a busy thoroughfare within the College, allowing
daily viewing of this rare treasure. Housed in the Do Room’s permanent exhibition, it’s joined by rotating displays curated by pupils -like Womanuscripts, showcasing women’s roles in history, through letters, recipes and theological manuscripts.
The display has been put together by 17-year-old girls in Poetry (Year 12): “I think they have found it quite liberating,” says Jan. “I am so proud of them!”
As pupils grow older, the scope of learning widens. Sixth Form pupils use the collections to explore historical and societal changes. International Baccalaureate (IB) pupils are required to present displays using museum artefacts, while A level biology and art pupils also draw inspiration from the collection, particularly the natural specimens of the Waterton Collection.
STONYHURST’S SHAKESPEARE FIRST FOLIO SITS PROUDLY IN A STURDY GLASS CABINET ALONG A BUSY THOROUGHFARE WITHIN THE COLLEGE, ALLOWING DAILY VIEWING OF THIS RARE TREASURE
Supporting Jan in this vital work is Esther Rollinson, the Museum Education Officer. Together, they have developed hundreds of ‘banked’ lessons based on the museum’s contents for Stonyhurst pupils, as young as three years old – their efforts also extend beyond Stonyhurst, with local schools encouraged to visit and engage with the collection.
Stonyhurst’s educational mission is grounded not just in preserving the past, but in helping pupils understand it – and their place within it. The legacy is reflected not only in objects but also in the names etched into the very furniture of the school. One such name is Arthur Conan Doyle,
the creator of Sherlock Holmes. His name is carved into a heavy oak desk, a tangible link to the school’s illustrious past. Inside a museum glass case sits one of his school reports, describing him rather unflatteringly, as a ‘quarrelsome buffoon with dirty habits’.
But behind the quirks and curiosities lies a deeper purpose. “It’s about understanding the world through the things left behind,” says Jan who adds that many of the objects give pupils access to people’s thoughts, values and experiences – allowing them to walk in someone else’s shoes – whether that’s a Roman soldier, a Victorian explorer or a Neolithic hunter.
At Stonyhurst, young minds are given the rare and unique opportunity to hold the past in their hands and carry its lessons into the future. n
Stonyhurst College Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073
stonyhurst.ac.uk
ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk
Discover more at an open day.
explore their interests in depth whether they are budding athletes, musicians or scientists. The variety of extracurricular activities from rowing to debating helps children develop skills beyond the classroom building confidence and teamwork along the way.
While exam success is not the only marker of education many private schools have consistently strong track records. High standards of teaching combined with supportive environments often translate into excellent exam performance and broader university options. Parents who value a pathway to top universities may find this especially appealing.
Beyond academics private schools frequently emphasise personal development. Many encourage leadership opportunities, community service and cultural awareness.
WHY CHOOSE PRIVATE EDUCATION
Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions parents face. Here are the key advantages of sending your child to a private school in the UK
For many parents in the UK the question of whether to send their children to a private school is a serious one. Private education is often seen as a significant investment but many families believe the benefits make it worthwhile. From smaller class sizes to broader extracurricular opportunities private schools offer a learning environment that can shape a child’s future in unique ways.
One of the most frequently mentioned advantages is individual attention. In private schools class sizes are generally smaller than in state schools which means teachers can devote more time to each pupil. This often leads to stronger relationships between staff and students and allows teachers to identify and nurture individual strengths. For children who might struggle to find their
feet in larger classrooms the focused support can make all the difference.
Private schools are also known for their resources. Facilities often include well equipped science labs, modern sports complexes, theatres and extensive libraries. These resources give students the chance to
This holistic approach to education aims to prepare students not only for exams but for life beyond the school gates. Pupils learn to balance responsibilities, build resilience and engage with the world around them.
Another advantage is the strength of school communities. Private schools often have close knit networks of parents, staff and alumni who remain connected long after pupils leave. These networks can provide mentoring and career opportunities that support children well into adulthood. For families the sense of belonging can also be a valuable part of the experience.
Of course private education comes at a cost and it is not the right choice for everyone. But for parents who decide to invest the benefits can be significant. A supportive environment, rich opportunities and strong outcomes are all reasons many families continue to choose private schools across the UK.
Ultimately education is about giving children the best possible start. For some that means thriving in the state sector. For others the private route opens doors that can shape their futures in lasting ways. n
Academic results are another draw.
THE BEST START
Find out about a primary school experience laying the foundations for an exciting education
The Queen Ethelburga’s educational journey begins in Chapter House, a small school with a family atmosphere for children aged three months to 10 years. Safely nestled within the wider school estate which caters for students up to Year 13, Chapter House provides a home from home for children to begin their own learning journey through imaginative play and inspiring lessons, cared for by an expert team. In Chapter House, discoveries are not limited to the classroom. Playtimes and evenings are a time for fun with friends and the chance to learn new skills through enrichment activities like first aid, mindfulness, sign & sing and
newspaper club. Class teachers get to know each child in their care, tailoring their teaching to support and benefit every individual’s learning style.
AT THE SCHOOL, ALL PRIMARY STUDENTS STUDY SPANISH AND MANDARIN EACH WEEK UNDER THE TUTELAGE OF NATIVE SPEAKERS FROM YEAR ONE
At the school, all primary students study Spanish and Mandarin each week under the tutelage of native speakers from Year One and have regular swimming lessons in the on-site 25m swimming pool. They take part in cooking and baking classes in a specialist food technology room and have forest school lessons in a dedicated woodland area onsite,
that are taught by a qualified forest school teacher. In addition, all pupils follow a sports programme under specialist coaches that focuses on multi-skills to keep every individual motivated and engaged in physical activity and sports. Each year they compete in the annual sports day in groups known as houses which creates a real sense of belonging and camaraderie, no matter their ability, and older students are involved in regular fixtures and workshops which develop their skills further. Every new starter is assessed so that an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) can be created for them, tailoring the support they receive. This can mean helping bring them up through extra support sessions, individual tuition by learning support specialists or differentiated learning plans. ILPs also identify gifted areas and help us to push children through accelerated learning clubs or talent-focused enrichment clubs.
Above all, Chapter House is a family feel school that keeps its class sizes small, so that children have up to 50 per cent more teacher contact time than larger classes. We also pride ourselves on parent communication through parent meetings and reports every half term, rather than the standard twice a year and daily EYFS updates on Tapestry. Thinking of an independent education for your child? Come along to our Open Day on 27th September and find out more about our personalised approach to your child’s education. Visit qe.org to book your place. n
Queen Ethelburga’s
Thorpe Underwood Estate
York YO26 9SS
01423 333 333
qe.org
Building a new home is an important investment - so choosing the right construction method is critical. Katie Hammond speaks to structural insulated panel specialists SIPS@Clays
There are so many factors to be considered once you have committed to the life-changing project of building your own home, with lifestyle, environmental ambitions and budget often being the drivers, together with design requirements, availability of materials and the location and accessibility of your site. There are many traditional construction methods to consider, but for those looking towards a more modern method of construction, Structural Insulated Panel building systems (SIPs) are seeing a major surge in popularity.
Based in Skipton, the SIPS@Clays team, who design, fabricate and install SIPs for new homes across the UK, know that there are many incomparable benefits to building with SIPs – we asked business founder Ian Clay why clients choose this revolutionary material to be the starting point and the very fabric with which to create their dream home.
“By far, the two overriding reasons for choosing SIPs are the energy efficiency and the speed of build the system provides,” he says. “At a time when saving money on energy bills is still a hot topic, increasing numbers of self-builders and developers are turning to SIPs as a solution. The Kingspan TEK building system we supply provides low U-values and reduced thermal bridging, making the home airtight and fully energy efficient.”
BY FAR, THE TWO OVERRIDING REASONS FOR CHOOSING SIPS ARE THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND THE SPEED OF BUILD THE SYSTEM PROVIDES
Ian continues: “It’s considered to be one of the quickest and most efficient building methods available, with the build completed 40 per cent quicker – a very appealing prospect when you can’t wait to move into your new home or get your development on the market.”
Another major benefit of choosing SIPs is the offsite manufacturing process, where each panel is individually precision cut in a quality-controlled factory setting. All apertures and complex design features are pre-cut before the kit arrives on site, which saves time at installation stage and means only minor tweaking when and if required.
Having a predictable building programme means that clients can be in full control of their project and if not experienced self-builders, this predictability can be very reassuring.
A valuable added benefit is that materials and plant hire can be ordered and scheduled and follow-on trades can be more easily planned in. For example, clients can order their windows and doors as soon as the technical drawings are agreed, helping to mitigate potential delays.
A SIPs building system is typically built in a turnaround time of 15 weeks from preliminary drawings to the shell being completed on site and can also be
installed come rain or shine, meaning there are no weather barriers or resulting ‘knock on’ delays to follow on trades. Once the installation is complete and the superstructure is weather resistant, follow on trades can immediately begin work, simultaneously if necessary.
For Ian, starting his business more than 20 years ago has been a labour of love made possible by being one of the earlier pioneers of a building system which is hard to match.
“Our family business had already become a trusted name in house building and property services across North Yorkshire. We came across SIPs when looking for a solution for a project we were working on in 2002 and never looked back,” he says.
“We began to work with Kingspan TEK, manufacturing the systems from our base in Skipton and quickly decided to move our full focus on to this, gradually moving away from house building as the years went by.
FOR IAN, STARTING HIS BUSINESS MORE THAN 20 YEARS AGO HAS BEEN A LABOUR OF LOVE MADE POSSIBLE BY BEING ONE OF THE EARLIER PIONEERS OF A BUILDING SYSTEM WHICH IS HARD TO MATCH
“Alongside our renowned customer service, a real key to our success is having our own in-house CAD design team. Working closely with our clients’ architects, project managers and developers, we manage the SIPs design process from start to finish. Using the initial architectural plans, we form a 3D CAD model, ensuring the finest details are all checked and correct before our manufacturing and installation begins. The SIPs building systems are precision engineered in our factory in Skipton, meaning that all apertures and complex design features are pre-cut, so only minimal ‘tweaking’ may be required when our installation teams begin on site – something our customers love.” n clays.com
BUSINESS MATTERS
The Dales and surrounding areas host a wide range of thriving businesses – here is the latest news from some of them.
If you have business news contact: annette.mcintyre@live-magazines.co.uk
SKIPTON BUSINESS AWARDS RETURN
The Skipton Business Awards are back for their third year, organised by Skipton BID, with Craven College as the headline sponsor and Your Skipton Radio as the official media sponsor. The event aims to continue to shine a spotlight on the outstanding talent within the town’s vibrant business community.
This year, the public once again played a vital role by nominating their favourite businesses across 12 diverse categories and organisers say the response was “phenomenal”. An independent panel of judges carefully reviewed the longlist of nominations in August to select the finalists.
The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony in October at Skipton Town Hall. Tickets can be booked via skiptonbid.com
Sarah Howsen, from Skipton BID, said: “We are now in the third year of the Skipton Business Awards and they continue to grow year on year. The public response was fantastic once again and highlights how fortunate we are to have such a diverse and talented business community in Skipton. We now look forward to the awards night to see who will be crowned the best in town.”
AWARDS FOR LISHMAN’S CHARCUTERIE
Ilkley-based Lishman’s Butchers & Charcutiers has added more Great Taste accolades to its ever-growing stable of award-winning charcuterie products, picking up a coveted 2 Stars for ‘Yorkshire Nduja’ and 1 Star for its Air Dried York Ham.
Organised by the Guild of Fine Food, for over three decades Great Taste is an influential and global food and drink accreditation scheme.
David Lishman has travelled far and wide across Europe, sourcing and sampling products that might be adapted, hand-crafted in-house using local meats and added to the shop’s fast-expanding charcuterie arm.
The division, which continues to be managed by Skipton man and business partner Andrew Waterhouse, is already a Champion Charcuterie Producer in the British Charcuterie Live Awards, with a host of past Great Taste awards also in the bag.
“Yet again, it’s a tremendous honour to receive further accolades in an accreditation scheme that celebrates the very best in food and drink from around the world. We have become a driving force and remain proud to continue to fly the flag for quality British charcuterie using locally reared meats from our recognised long-time suppliers,” said David, who manages the business with daughter Emma.
AWARD FOR QUINTA BAR
Ilkley’s Quinta Restaurant and Bar and has been named as West Yorkshire Restaurant of the year at the English Business Awards 2025 held in Leeds.
The restaurant, on Wells Road, will now go into the finals later this year.
Quinta Restaurant owner Diogo Filipe said: “I’m delighted to win this accolade. It’s a great reward for me and my head chef (and friend) Tom, having worked together for 17 years in total. Quinta was established 11 years ago in Ilkley with the desire to serve high quality Mediterranean dishes with a Portuguese twist. We pride ourselves in providing superior food and wine, excellent customer service and value for money using mostly locally sourced products. This award means the world for me and my team and we are very excited about the next stage of the competition nationally.”
HAVE IT ALL
Family SUV practicality meets M Sport thrills, the BMW X5 50e proves that growing up doesn’t mean giving up, writes Charles Jenkins
Photography: Anthony P Driver
Call it stubbornness or simply a refusal to give in, but I have never been convinced that family life has to mean the end of driving enjoyment. Some will say that once you’re carrying two kids, a week’s worth of shopping and a boot stacked with football gear, the joy of the open road is gone forever. I don’t buy that. And neither, it seems, does the BMW X5 50e.
At first glance, the X5 50e wears its practicality proudly – but it’s also dressed in the language of indulgence. M Sport Pro, Technology Plus, Comfort Plus. These aren’t just trim levels, they’re promises. The question is, can a family SUV really deliver on all fronts?
SOME CARS ASK YOU TO CHOOSE BETWEEN BEING SENSIBLE AND BEING INDULGENT. THIS ONE SIMPLY ASKS WHERE YOU WANT TO GO NEXT
Your introduction to the X5 begins with its paintwork – Frozen Pure Grey. Understated, satin, and sculptural, it doesn’t shout for attention but commands it nonetheless. The 22-inch Double Spoke
Jet Black alloys speak of purpose, while the illuminated Iconic Glow kidney grille adds just the right dash of drama.
Slip inside and you’re greeted by a masterclass in premium cabin design. Ivory White and Black Merino leather cradle every surface, while the Anthracite Alcantara headlining cocoons the space above. The
STILL
A BIG SUV,
BUT ONE THAT’S MORE THAN WILLING TO INDULGE A SPIRITED DRIVER
Crafted Clarity controls sparkle under your fingers and the Sky Lounge panoramic roof floods the cabin with light by day and starlight by night.
This isn’t just a pretty place to sit. With the Comfort Plus Pack, every occupant is pampered – heated and ventilated seats front and rear, four-zone climate control, even a massage function for long journeys. Add cooled cupholders, a subtle ambient fragrance system and soft-close doors and you’re suddenly in luxury limo territory.
BMW’s Technology Plus Pack acts like a silent bodyguard. Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional work quietly in the background, supporting you with adaptive cruise control, lane guidance and a head-up display. Add xDrive all-wheel drive, front and rear air suspension – and Integral Active Steering –and the X5 feels as solid and secure as it does refined.
At its core, the X5 50e is a plug-in hybrid, combining silent electric serenity around
town with the long-legged confidence of petrol power when the road opens up. Transitions are smooth, torque is instant and the overall sensation is one of choice, not compromise.
And then there’s the fun stuff.
With the M Sport Pro Pack, the car’s more athletic side shines through. Red brake calipers, M seatbelts, a perfectly weighted steering wheel – these details set the tone. Integral Active Steering makes the X5 feel far more agile than its size suggests and the air suspension keeps everything composed through corners.
From gesture-controlled infotainment to rear window blinds for the kids, from a
Harman Kardon surround sound system to whisper-quiet electric cruising, the BMW X5 50e is every bit the family vehicle – but one that refuses to sacrifice joy for practicality.
YOU NEVER FEEL LIKE YOU’RE MAKING A COMPROMISE –YOU SIMPLY FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
By the time I handed back the keys, the answer was clear. Yes, you can have it all – the space, the safety, the silence and the thrill. n
Lloyd Colne BMW Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720720
lloydcolnebmw.co.uk
@lloydcolnebmw
FIRST CLASS DINING
What makes Ilkley’s Quinta Restaurant so special? Mike Dixon finds out why it has won a top award
Iwas wondering where I should take my wife to celebrate a noteworthy wedding anniversary in August, when I read that the Quinta Restaurant in Ilkley had been awarded West Yorkshire Restaurant of the year at the English Business Awards 2025. Having dined at the restaurant from time to time over the years and both of us liking its food and ambience, I decided to make a reservation. Our evening at Quinta certainly lived up to our high expectations.
We were welcomed by the owner Diogo and shown to our table. Diogo presides over the restaurant in the manner of a patron, taking orders, advising on the wines and the food, preparing drinks at the bar and serving the meals – and all this with charm and aplomb.
THE STARTERS APPEARED IN A TIMELY FASHION AND WE WERE IMPRESSED BY THEIR PRESENTATION ON, WHAT APPEARED TO BE, PORTUGUESE VERNACULAR POTTERY
The menu leans towards Diogo’s Portuguese origins but is perhaps best described as ‘Mediterranean’. After studying the main menu and the ‘specials’, we both went for the seafood and fish options. I did waver over the medallions of lamb but came down
in favour of Quinta’s fish stew with new potatoes and rouille croutons. My wife chose the pan-fried lemon sole with smoked leek risotto and a beurre blanc sauce. We took less time to choose the starters because we saw two of our favourites on the menu, homemade lobster ravioli, and grilled sardines on bruschetta with pesto. After taking our order, Diogo immediately returned with two mini loaves of homemade bread, one containing red onion, the other sundried tomatoes and olives. A nice touch.
As for wine, we chose the vinho verde which served as both aperitif and accompaniment to our food. It was typically light bodied with a little natural effervescence and good acidity to sharpen the appetite.
The starters appeared in a timely fashion and we were impressed by their presentation on, what appeared to be, Portuguese vernacular pottery. Both were delicious. As for the mains, the lemon sole was declared to be “cooked to perfection” and ideally complemented by its bed of risotto. My fish stew was extra special because it conjured up holidays in the Algarve – its tomato-based, spicy broth revealed chunks of tender white fish together with prawns and mussels in the rustic manner of the caldeirada. The rouille croutons, toasted slices of baguette with a smear of a thick, flavoursome mayonnaise, added a final touch of authenticity.
After a short pause we were presented with the dessert menu from which my wife chose the mango bavarois and mango sorbet while I had a warm molten chocolate and salted caramel tart with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream. Both proved to be first rate and brought the meal to a very satisfying conclusion.
Thus, our meal underlined why Quinta is deserving of a top award, with its first-class food and excellent service at a moderate price. We will not be waiting for another anniversary before we dine at Quinta again. n
Fresh from their spectacular win as West Yorkshire Restaurant of the Year at the Yorkshire Regional Business Awards 2025.
“I’m delighted to win this accolade. It’s a great reward for me and my head chef (and friend) Tom, having worked together for 17 years in total,” says owner Diogo Filipe.
“Quinta was established 11 years ago in Ilkley with the desire to serve high quality Mediterranean dishes with a Portuguese twist. We pride ourselves in providing superior food and wine, excellent customer service and value for money using mostly locally sourced products.”
THUS, OUR MEAL UNDERLINED WHY QUINTA IS DESERVING OF A TOP AWARD, WITH ITS FIRST-CLASS FOOD AND EXCELLENT SERVICE AT A MODERATE PRICE
OVER THE BORDER
An autumnal night of relaxation and excellent food awaits just over the Red Rose border, in the storybook village of Waddington –a true recipe for a memorable escape, writes Katie Hammond
Photography: Kirsten Platt
The name Michael Heathcote has long been synonymous with a flair and passion for food and hospitality, both in the beautiful Ribble Valley where he has honed his craft over decades and far beyond. He has quietly sustained his success, with three pubs to date securing entries in the Good Food Guides and making it into the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list in 2021, with a philosophy which remains grounded in seasonal, honest flavours and local sourcing – cooking with attention to detail and a genuine heart.
The historic village inn is situated in the delightful village of Waddington, just two miles from Clitheroe and prolific winner of
‘Lancashire’s Best Kept Village’, once even claiming the same title as a Yorkshire village before 1974 boundary changes. Cobblestoned streets, a slow-flowing brook and period stone cottages create an idyllic setting perfect for a peaceful break away from the melee of day-to-day life.
The Higher Buck sits at the heart of it all in the village square, with a warm and stylish interior featuring tartan fabrics, reclaimed wooden panels and cosy nooks striking the perfect balance of countryside chic and stylish design.
PUT SIMPLY, WE KNOW WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS WANT AND WE DELIVER IT CONSISTENTLY WITH LOVE AND CARE
On the menu are signature dishes and ever-changing seasonal specials, carefully curated to achieve the perfect mix of the classic and the contemporary, delivered with an unwavering passion by Michael, his chefs and experienced front-of-house team.
Michael explains: “Put simply, we know what our customers want and we deliver it consistently with love and care. We are unapologetically rigorous in delivering a modern take on signature classics such as
our steak and ale suet pudding, Lancashire cheese souffle or a hearty and filling crispy duck and chorizo salad.
“For me, it’s always been about sourcing the best of seasonal, top-quality produce and allowing the flavours to speak for themselves. Our customers return time and time again as they know the menu reflects that comfort and heartiness of the classic pub lunch, but always with a few surprises from the specials and usually with a good pint or a nicely paired, classic wine.”
It would seem the hospitality apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, with Michael’s son Harry recently opening another set of Waddington village doors on his new café and deli, The Wild Buck. Just a few steps down the winding road from ‘The Higher’, as it’s affectionately known, Harry’s take is more of a bistro-style nip in, with fine charcuterie and cheeses to either sit and relax with, or to take home and enjoy later.
In the spirit of a relaxed evening or Sunday lunch, beyond the food and after a long day of discovering all that the beautiful Ribble Valley has to offer, the Higher Buck’s seven individually designed en-suite rooms with thoughtful touches including comfy, inviting king sized beds and cosy touches throughout – Waddington and its Bucks offer the perfect getaway and all within an hour’s drive of the rolling Yorkshire hills. n
The Higher Buck
The Square Waddington BB7 3HZ 01200 423226
higherbuck.com
LEVEL WITH A GOURMET
Gourmet Weddings at Northcote
Gourmet Weddings at Northcote
Gourmet Weddings at Northcote
ESCAPE AT NORTHCOTE
Gourmet Weddings at Northcote
Gourmet Weddings at Northcote
Louis Roederer Champagne Rooms at Northcote are the perfect venue for an unforgettable gourmet wedding experience
The Louis Roederer Champagne Rooms at Northcote are the perfect venue for an unforgettable gourmet wedding experience
The Luxury Lancashire Hotel and Michelin Star Restaurant
The Perfect Way to Experience Northcote
Seeking the perfect getaway for foodies or luxury hotel lovers? Look no further than Northcote. Indulge in exceptional culinary experiences and relax in luxurious surroundings.
Situated on the edge of the beautiful Ribble Valley, Northcote’s ethos is all about food, wine, and great Northern hospitality. Our Gourmet Breaks are all the reason you need to indulge in the refined menu by Lisa Goodwin-Allen and a night to savour.
Innovative seasonal menus created by Michelin Star Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and wines matched from the award-winning wine list, offer an outstanding gastronomic experience.
Samantha Broadley Photography
4-COURSE GOURMET ESCAPE
5-COURSE GOURMET ESCAPE
Relax in a stunning luxury room in the Manor House or a suite in the Garden Lodge before spending the evening in the elegant restaurant.
• Relax in a stunning luxury room in the Manor House or a suite in the Garden Lodge before spending the evening in the elegant restaurant.
• Arrive at Northcote and check into one of the individually styled rooms
• Arrive at Northcote and check into one of the individually styled rooms
• In the evening enjoy an aperitif in the stylish cocktail bar
• In the evening enjoy an aperitif in the stylish cocktail bar
• Indulge in a 4-course Gourmet Menu in the restaurant
• Indulge in a 5-course Gourmet Menu in the restaurant
• Wake up to a traditional English breakfast or choose from the extensive alternatives menu.
• Wake up to a traditional English breakfast or choose from the extensive alternatives menu
The luxurious wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.
luxurious wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.
wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.
The luxurious wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.
The luxurious wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.
GOURMET
Based on two people sharing from £310.00 per room
BREAKS AVAILABLE from £255 per person (based on two people sharing)
Arrive in style through the exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or Champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her team before retiring to one of our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.
in style through the exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or Champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her team before retiring to one of our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.
through the exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Chef Lisa her team before retiring to one of our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.
Arrive in style through the exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or Champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her team before retiring to one of our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.
Arrive in style through the exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or Champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her team before retiring to one of our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.
Upgrade to a 6-course Tasting Menu from £350.00 per room
To book your Northcote Gourmet Break visit www.northcote.com or call 01254 240555
Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will discuss every last detail of your special day to create your beautiful occasion.
Prices based on a classic room on a Sunday or Monday.
wedding co-ordinator will discuss every last detail of your special day to create your
dedicated wedding co-ordinator will discuss every last detail of your special day to create your beautiful occasion.
Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will discuss every last detail of your special day to create your beautiful occasion.
Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will discuss every last detail of your special day to create your beautiful occasion.
Ginger Hospitality is elevating Yorkshire’s dining experiences with a new service. Here the company describes its initiative
Ginger Hospitality, the specialist resourcing partner renowned for its dedication to premium hotels, pubs and restaurants, is deepening its ties to Yorkshire’s thriving hospitality scene with the launch of its tailored Executive Search Service. Building on long-standing relationships with celebrated venues such as The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, The Devonshire Group, Longbow Venues, The Angel at Hetton, The Box Tree and The Coniston Inn, Ginger Hospitality is committed to ensuring that the very best talent powers Yorkshire’s food, drink, and guest experiences.
For over a decade, the company has partnered with some of Yorkshire’s most iconic locations – working hand in hand with venues that range from cosy village pubs to award-winning fine dining restaurants and luxury destination hotels. “Traditional Yorkshire hospitality is about
warmth, attention to detail, and consistently surpassing guest expectations,” explains Angela Byrne, founder and CEO of Ginger Hospitality. “By really getting to know our clients – understanding their values, ambitions and what makes their venue unique – we’re able to place individuals who become part of their story.”
GINGER’S TEAM IS EQUIPPED TO HELP CLIENTS ADAPT, NOT JUST BY FILLING ROLES, BUT BY IDENTIFYING TALENT THAT WILL SET NEW BENCHMARKS FOR THE REGION
The new Executive Search Service is an evolution in Ginger’s approach: providing a consultative, discreet and highly targeted recruitment process for senior and specialist roles. While Ginger has already built a
reputation for bringing in front and back-ofhouse stars, this new service sharpens the focus on leadership – helping clients attract the managers, chefs and directors who can truly make a difference in a changing industry. Teams assembled by Ginger Hospitality include passionate industry professionals –from innovative head chefs to experienced operations leads – who embody the culture and drive high standards of service. “It’s not just about what’s on someone’s CV,” Angela says. “It’s about cultural fit and finding leaders who bring creativity, resilience and genuine hospitality spirit to the table.”
OUR EXECUTIVE SEARCH SERVICE IS DESIGNED NOT JUST TO FILL VACANCIES, BUT TO HELP STEWARD THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY IN THIS REGION
The launch comes as Yorkshire’s hospitality businesses look to the future with ambition and resilience, navigating shifting guest expectations and competitive pressures. Ginger’s team is equipped to help clients adapt, not just by filling roles, but by identifying talent that will set new benchmarks for the region.
“We’re incredibly proud to support iconic Yorkshire venues like The Devonshire Arms, The Coniston Inn and the dynamic range of properties within The Devonshire Group and managed by Longbow Venues,” continues Angela. “Our Executive Search Service is designed not just to fill vacancies, but to help steward the future of hospitality in this region.”
As pubs, hotels and restaurants continue to define and raise the standards for Yorkshire’s hospitality, Ginger Hospitality remains a trusted partner – helping local businesses discover and nurture the leaders who will shape the next chapter of the region’s renowned service culture. n
Ginger Hospitality
Suite 11, Manor Court
Salesbury Hall
Ribchester PR3 3XR 01200 890890
gingerhospitality.co.uk
FREE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE
FREE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE
FOOD SERVED DAILY
FOOD SERVED DAILY
LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY 9PM-11PM
LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY 9PM-11PM
BEER GARDEN & SUN TERRACE
BEER GARDEN & SUN TERRACE
BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH EVERY SATURDAY 1PM | 3PM | 5PM
BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH EVERY SATURDAY 1PM | 3PM | 5PM
DOG FRIENDLY KIDS MENUS
DOG FRIENDLY KIDS MENUS
COSTA RICA
Wild Pen Coffee showcases Costa Rica’s finest beans, sourcing from Turrialba and Tarrazú, where volcanic soils and unique climates create exceptional flavours. Photography: Hawke.TV
Costa Rica lies in Central America between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the Caribbean Sea. Its coffee, considered among the world’s best, is certified by place of origin, highlighting unique growing methods and regional character. Tom of Wild Pen Coffee Roasters says: “There are eight growing regions within Costa Rica. We currently source coffee from Turrialba and Tarrazú.”
Aquiares Farm sits in the Turrialba Volcano region, with coffee cultivated in volcanic and alluvial soils at 1,100 - 1,400 meters. Caribbean influences enable early maturation and extended harvests. Their coffee is smooth, with floral notes and sugar cane honey aroma. Milly says: “We look forward to returning to Aquiares, it’s hard not to love the people and Diego’s engaging family history.”
Hacienda La Minita coffee is grown in the Tarrazú valleys and mountains south west of the capital, San Jose, in the area known as Los Santos. The soil is a pale clay, tan to light reddish in colour, at altitudes of 1,200 - 2,000 meters above sea level. Importantly, the farm faces west, towards the Pacific which allows for gradual warming in the morning and slow cooling in the evening. Their coffee possesses a citrus aroma with floral notes and a long cacao. n
FESTIVE MENU
TWO COURSES | 28.50 THREE COURSES | 32.50 AVAILABLE MONDAY TO FRIDAY
CHEESE PLATE [GFO] blue cheese & brie, traditional trimmings
SPC MEMBERS
JOIN THE CLUB
SPC MEMBERS
JOIN THE CLUB
It’s free to join and open to everybody. Build points for every pound you spend on food, drink and accommodation. Points turn into currency, and in addition to your points, you will receive exclusive rewards and discounts.
It’s free to join and open to everybody. Build points for every pound you spend on food, drink and accommodation. Points turn into currency, and in addition to your points, you will receive exclusive rewards and discounts.
Sign up here and receive a £5 voucher to enjoy on your next visit.
Sign up here and receive a £5 voucher to enjoy on your next visit.
Full terms and conditions at seafoodpubcompany.com/loyalty
Full terms and conditions at seafoodpubcompany.com/loyalty
Check your rewards here: Sign up here:
FESTIVE TREATS
Tables of four or more dining on or before Friday 5th December on the three course festive menu, enjoy a bottle of house wine per four or a glass of prosecco each on the house.
Book online using code LIVE25.
A FEAST OF FLAVOURS
Nigel
Haworth and The Three Fishes host Fusion 2 this October,
a week of world class cooking and creativity
The Ribble Valley has always been known for its food heritage, but this October it becomes the setting for something even more adventurous.
Nigel Haworth and his team at The Three Fishes are bringing back Fusion, the festival that first lit up Lancashire’s dining scene last year. Running from 13th to 19th October, Fusion 2 promises a week of bold cooking, intimate dining and conversations that go far beyond the plate.
The line-up promises a stellar celebration of culinary talent. The festival opens on 13th October with Michelin-starred Italian chef Angelo Sabatelli, followed on 14th October by Kirk Haworth of Plates in London, the UK’s only Michelin-starred vegan restaurant. On 15th October, the spotlight turns to Atul Kochhar, renowned for his vibrant Indian flavours, before Nigel Haworth himself returns to the stove on 16th October.
Shaun Rankin, of Michelin-starred Grantley Hall, brings a taste of Yorkshire on 17th October, while celebrated author and chef Thuy Diem Pham shares her Vietnamese-inspired
dishes on 18th October. The week concludes in style on 19th October with a relaxed Jazz Brunch at The Three Fishes.
THIS ISN’T ABOUT RIGID TRADITION, IT’S ABOUT FLAVOUR WITHOUT BORDERS
Each chef comes with a background, a set of influences and a way of cooking that speaks to more than taste alone. “Food should tell a story,” he says – and the week has been designed to showcase not just dishes but ideas, memories and the experiences that inspire them. The event will also raise vital funds for Hospitality Action, supporting those
FUSION 2 CHEF LINE-UP
in need across the hospitality industry.
The Three Fishes is the perfect home for Fusion, it has always been a place where tradition meets innovation. The organic vegetable gardens and commitment to local producers provide a grounding in the land itself, while the kitchen has never shied away from pushing flavours into new territory. Guests at Fusion 2 will experience that balance in its most ambitious form, surrounded by the warm and contemporary atmosphere that makes The Three Fishes such a landmark for food lovers.
13th October – Angelo Sabatelli (Angelo Sabatelli Ristorante, Italy )
14th October – Kirk Haworth (Plates, London )
15th October – Atul Kochhar (Atul Kochhar Restaurants)
16th October – Nigel Haworth (The Three Fishes)
17th October – Shaun Rankin (Grantley Hall, Yorkshire )
18th October – Thuy Diem Pham (Author)
19th October – Jazz Brunch (The Three Fishes)
Each night there will be a five course tasting menu, with the option of additional premium or prestigious wine pairing, all the details can be found on the website. For anyone who values food not just as fuel but as culture, artistry and connection, Fusion 2 is set to be one of the highlights of the year. n
LOADED ROASTIES WITH HONEY ROAST HAM, STILTON, MUSHROOMS & PORT
Leftover roasties are just too good to throw away – and they are extra delicious in this recipe from Booths Supermarket
It’s so easy to cook too many roast potatoes –but they can be turned into a whole new meal with some added ingredients, such as ham, Stilton, mushrooms and Port.
Leftovers have never tasted quite so indulgent!
Ingredients:
500g cooked leftover roasties
1 tbsp vegetable oil
100g mushrooms, halved
1 red onion, finely diced
2 slices of cold cut honey roast ham, chopped (or leftover meat like pork, chicken or turkey)
50g Stilton
Small glass of Port
50ml double cream
Few sprigs of thyme and rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C / fan 180°C / gas mark 6.
2. Place the leftover roasties in an oven proof dish and season with a little
salt and pepper.
3. Fry the onion and mushrooms in the vegetable oil until golden, add the Port and cream and bring to the boil.
4. Place your ham over the roasties and pour the mushroom mix over the top.
5. Add some crumbled Stilton, a few sprigs of thyme and rosemary and bake in the oven for 15 minutes until piping hot.
6. Serve with some nice cold cuts of meat for a proper supper.
CHEF’S TIP: Keep it veggie by removing the ham and serve with a nice selection of cheeses and pickles. n
Booths Christmas is coming… Scan the QR code to explore a preview of what’s to come, from delicious food and drink to exciting events!
PLATES WITH PURPOSE
The Rum Fox in Grindleton continues to blend comfort and creativity under chef patron Bob Geldeard and partner Kiaja Monk, with new menus, collaborations and celebrations ahead
Spend any time at The Rum Fox in Grindleton and you’ll quickly understand why it has become one of Lancashire’s most talked about dining spots. It isn’t just about what comes to the table but about the consistency and care behind every plate. Chef patron Bob Geldeard is a permanent fixture in the kitchen, working alongside his partner Kiaja
Monk to make sure that the experience remains as fresh as it is familiar. For them the restaurant is more than a business. It’s a living project that changes with the seasons while holding tight to a philosophy of quality and hospitality.
IT’S A LIVING PROJECT THAT CHANGES WITH THE SEASONS WHILE HOLDING TIGHT TO A PHILOSOPHY OF QUALITY AND HOSPITALITY
The kitchen is currently on the cusp of change as the new autumn menus prepare to make their debut. Right now diners can still enjoy dishes from the summer season. Lobster katsu curry, featuring lobster tail, lobster roll, Japanese milk bread, puffed wild rice and katsu curry sauce has been a firm favourite. As has the Eaves Hall Farm lamb rump, roasted courgette with
pomegranate, coriander and juniper, ricotta, sticky lamb belly cous cous and lavender lamb jus. Both showcase Bob’s ability to coax depth of flavour out of classic pairings while presenting them in a way that feels modern. With the autumn shift, guests can expect bolder flavours, richer sauces and a few surprises. Bob is known for balancing comfort food with moments of invention and the team hint at local game and Grindleton lamb, squashes and late season greens taking centre stage.
The Rum Fox is not only about a midweek meal or a Sunday roast. It has quietly become a place where life’s celebrations take place.
Weddings and private dining are part of the story here, with the building’s characterful spaces providing an inviting backdrop. Very soon the Christmas programme will be unveiled, available to book from mid-September. It promises festive classics handled with the same care as the regular menus, where turkey might share the table with unexpected seasonal flavours and desserts lean into indulgence. For many in the Ribble Valley the festive season at The Rum Fox is fast becoming a tradition. Don’t miss out – get your table booked now. Another strand of the story is Fox Fusions, a series of collaborations with restaurants around the country. These evenings are about more than guest chefs taking over the stove. They are conversations between kitchens, opportunities to share ideas and
showcase how different regions approach food. The very first, held with The Shibden Mill Inn, sold out almost as soon as it was announced. Diners were treated to a menu that combined signatures from both restaurants, highlighting just how energising these exchanges can be. For those who want to be in the loop, signing up to The Skulk through the Rum Fox website is the best way to stay informed about future collaborations.
Midweek visitors are particularly well served by the set lunches, offered Wednesday to Saturday between 12 noon and 2pm. At £30 for two courses or £36 for three, they offer excellent value without ever cutting corners. The weekly changing
menu means there is always something new and exciting to try, the likes of which have included Grindleton lamb kebab and a chicken and tarragon pie. The same menus are also available Wednesday and Thursday evenings, making them an appealing option for a relaxed but satisfying supper. And if you are looking to go all out there is also their sensational tasting menu.
FOR MANY IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY THE FESTIVE SEASON AT THE RUM FOX IS FAST BECOMING A TRADITION
Sunday lunch, however, remains the beating heart of The Rum Fox. Three sittings every week mean more than 100 guests are served and the atmosphere is one of warmth and conviviality. It’s hard not to be drawn in by the sight of a plate of roast sirloin of beef, Yorkshire pudding standing tall and glossy red wine gravy poured at the table. Equally tempting is the slow roasted pork belly with its crisp crackling and apple compote. At £40 for two courses or £45 for three, it feels like a generous offering, particularly given the quality of the produce.
Over the course of an average week the restaurant now serves around 400 covers, a figure that speaks volumes about its popularity.
Beyond the food, The Rum Fox has gained recognition from the industry. The Michelin Guide 2025 praises the inn saying: “Well sourced produce and textbook execution.”
A concise description that captures what makes the place tick. The Good Food Guide 2024 calls The Rum Fox: “One of Britain’s cosiest pubs” - a nod to the balance of fine dining and familiar comfort. Meanwhile,
the Top 50 Gastropubs 2025 has named it a finalist in the “One to Watch” category. These accolades are not just about polish but about a restaurant that feels both ambitious and grounded.
What ties it all together is the steady presence of Bob in the kitchen. Unlike many chefs who lend their name but not their time, Bob is permanently at the pass, keeping a close eye on execution. The result is a consistency that guests have come to trust. Regulars return for the reassurance that the food will deliver every time, while newcomers are struck by the precision and creativity that sits behind what first looks like a cosy country pub.
The Rum Fox is a place where the consistency of craft meets the spark of creativity and that is what keeps people returning again and again. n
The Rum Fox Sawley Road Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691
info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk
A HORSE WITH A NAME
From puns to politics, Mark Dixon looks at the often cheeky – and sometimes revealing –art of naming a racehorse
Yorkshire is such a fine place to live as a horse racing fan. Go Racing in Yorkshire sums it up well: “Yorkshire has everything when it comes to racing, there are nearly 80 licensed trainers with more than 2,400 horses between them and with nine racecourses there are plenty to go around! In total, the horse racing industry is worth £300.2 million to the Yorkshire economy, with more than 6,300 full time equivalent roles in the region and the ripple effect of the sport filtering into the accommodation and hospitality industry of the county.”
The highlight of my flat racing summer is always the recent Ebor meeting at York. It seems I am not alone as attendances were up each day of the meeting. I was following Yorkshire trainers for most of the week with little success until I came up trumps in one
of the final races of the meeting. Northern Ticker leading home a Michael Dods one-two with a horse called Pocklington in third. The latter trained by Geoff Oldroyd based, of course, in – Pocklington.
I’m a bit of a sentimental punter and other horses that feature in my tracker are ‘Yorkshire’ trained by Ed Bethell in Middleham and ‘River Wharfe’ who won at Brighton, of all places, in August. And I used to follow a horse called Embsay Crag over a cliff as they say.
I USED TO FOLLOW A HORSE CALLED EMBSAY CRAG OVER A CLIFF AS THEY SAY
When I was involved in racehorse ownership, our syndicate, The Wayward Lads, was our own nod to one of the great National Hunt horses of our youth together with the recognition that we sometimes strayed off our chosen path! The first horse we were able to name became JayTee, for it was our Economics master of those initials and nickname, who first sparked our interest
in the sport with trips to Pontefract and Catterick racecourses and requests to run down to Jarvis Bookmakers to get a bet on.
There’s no doubt that racehorse owners have elevated the simple act of naming to an art form of wit and and at times cheekiness. I spoke to Jason Fildes who runs the Four Fillies syndicate and is thinking of calling his current horses after famous European Queens.
“To name our horses, I usually invite suggestions from the syndicate owners, create a short list and then have a vote. Obviously it’s ideal if we can be inspired by the name of our new horse’s sire and dam, especially if they turn out to be successful and go on to breed themselves.
Probably our best name so far has been Korker. It’s short, sharp and memorable. His sire is Dandy Man so it’s a name from the Dandy comic (Korky the cat).
“We’ve also got a two-year-old at the moment called Under The Radar. We were delighted to find that name was available –and I’m pleased to say that it wasn’t wasted as he’s proved to be a useful colt.”
The pun game reaches its zenith with
names like ‘Neighsayer’ for a horse whose owners clearly anticipated some scepticism about their chances, or ‘Stable Genius’, which managed to be both a horse pun and a subtle jab at Trumpian politics. ‘Brexit Uncertainty’ perfectly captured the national mood during those tumultuous political years.
Some owners take a refreshingly direct approach, choosing names that are so literal they become comedy gold. ‘Just A Horse’ removes all pretence and mystery, while ‘Average Joe’ sets expectations at a beautifully modest level. ‘Not Fast Enough’ displays a brutal honesty.
THE NAMING CONVENTIONS OFTEN REVEAL INTIMATE DETAILS ABOUT THEIR OWNERS’ PERSONAL LIVES, SOMETIMES MORE THAN INTENDED
The naming conventions often reveal intimate details about their owners’ personal lives, sometimes more than intended. ‘Midlife Crisis’ speaks to a particular demographic of horse ownership, while ‘Expensive Divorce’ suggests that equine investment might be part of asset division strategies.
What makes British racehorse naming
even more entertaining is the ongoing battle with racing authorities who must approve each name. The British Horseracing Authority maintains guidelines prohibiting names that are offensive, misleading, or too similar to existing horses. This has led to a creative arms race between cheeky owners and officials trying to maintain some semblance of decorum. ‘Hoof Hearted’ (say it quickly) represents the kind of schoolboy humour that somehow makes it past the censors, much to everyone’s delight.
I asked James Brennan, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship at York, for his own favourite
named York winner. ‘Sisyphean’, trained by Kevin Ryan in North Yorkshire and a winner last summer, near defines the vagaries of racehorse ownership.
Whether rooted in wordplay, current events, or simply the desire to make strangers smile, British racehorse names continue to be a source of joy for racing fans and casual observers alike. n
Experience stunning autumn golf with unbeatable group packages
Autumn is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.
Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed two-ball or playing with a group of friends, Ilkley offers the ideal setting for a memorable round.
Widely recognised as one of the most picturesque courses in the country, Ilkley becomes even more breathtaking as the leaves change colour. The layout is a great challenge for experienced golfers, while remaining welcoming and enjoyable for occasional players.
With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, play moves smoothly—so you’ll spend more time golfing and less time searching for lost balls.
With winter packages announced soon, there’s never been a better time to book your round.
So come and see why autumn golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.
For our excellent value autumn packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk
GOODNIGHT MR TOM
Dales children will step into wartime Britain this autumn for a moving production of Goodnight Mr Tom. Ben Hopkins finds out more about the Grassington Players production
Adapted by David Wood from Michelle Magorian’s awardwinning novel, Goodnight Mr Tom tells the story of a troubled William Beech, played by 13-year-old Charlie Hunter-Bland from Grassington. William is evacuated from wartime London to the safety of the English countryside where he’s taken in by the reclusive widower, Tom Oakley, played by David Newell. Once there, William embarks on a transformative journey of selfdiscovery and love – marked by moments of deep sorrow and unexpected joy.
Featuring a talented cast of 11 local children aged between 11 and 14, alongside seasoned adult performers, the production unites the generations while bringing great opportunities to local schoolchildren.
“I like the whole performance part of it,” says Charlie, beaming with smiles as he takes a break from playing William Beech during rehearsals. “If I can’t remember every line, I like to improvise and feel the character.” A true actor in the making!
A Director’s Vision
Director Anita Adams, known for directing past community productions including Calendar Girls: The Musical in 2021, describes the process as deeply rewarding.
“It’s such a classic piece that speaks to
everyone, especially in this community. Linton Camp, a mile or so from Grassington, is where kids like Charlie were sent during WWII.”
IT’S PRODUCTIONS LIKE THIS THAT SHOW THE TRUE VALUE OF COMMUNITY THEATRE
Clearly enthused by working with such a young cast, Anita recalls a discussion between their eldest cast member, Sue Wainwright, sharing her memories of WWII with the young actors. “She was bringing it all to life for them. The kids were fascinated by her descriptions of the then newly built Anderson Shelters and how they were used.”
Working alongside Anita as Assistant Director is 19-year-old Becca Leavesly from Long Ashes. An aspiring actor jumping at the
opportunity to learn the craft of directing and to broaden her horizons. “I want to learn everything about theatre while I can. The directing and acting as well as the props,” she says, before offering everyone a tray of home bakes.
A Legacy of Local Theatre
The Grassington Players recently celebrated their 100th anniversary and continue to be a cornerstone of community life in the Dales. With a long-standing commitment to engaging local audiences and nurturing local talent, this production exemplifies their mission to bring people together through the power of storytelling.
“It’s productions like this that show the true value of community theatre,” says John Anderson, Chairman of the Grassington Players. “We’re not just putting on a show –we’re offering young people a creative outlet, building confidence, and connecting them with our shared cultural heritage. I think audiences will be deeply touched by what they see on stage.” n
EVENT DETAILS
Goodnight Mr Tom will be staged at the Devonshire Institute (Grassington Town Hall) from Tuesday, 30th September to Saturday, 4th October 2025.
Shows begin at 7.30pm, with a Saturday matinée at 2.30pm. Tickets cost from £6 to £12 and are available from: wticketsource.co.uk and from the Grassington Hub.
MUSIC THAT STIRS THE SOUL
Settle Orchestra has been making music and delighting audiences for nearly 60 years – with its very first concert held in 1967. We take a look at what it has in store for its 2025-2026 season
As the summer haze fades and the first hints of autumn colour the Yorkshire Dales, a familiar sound begins to ripple through the valleys – the swell of strings, the call of brass and woodwind, the heartbeat of timpani. In the market town of Settle, musicians gather on Friday evenings, their instruments in tow, ready to breathe life into the next chapter of the Dales’ cultural story.
This September, Settle Orchestra launches its 2025–2026 rehearsal season with a flourish. The opening concerts in November will feature the glorious Dvorák Cello Concerto, performed by the orchestra’s own Bob Buller –a work of aching lyricism and nostalgic beauty that sets the tone for a year of rich, varied music-making.
At the helm this season is Andre Chan, a talented conductor from Hong Kong and a graduate student at Manchester’s Royal Northern College of Music. Already
experienced with ensembles such as the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, Manchester Camerata and MAV Symphony in Budapest, Andre brings a new energy and an artist’s precision to the podium.
WE’D LOVE TO SEE SOME NEW FACES AT REHEARSALS THIS SEASON. IT’S A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE A LOVE OF CLASSICAL MUSIC AND BE PART OF A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
This year also sees the return of one of the orchestra’s most treasured collaborations –a joint concert with the Langcliffe Singers. Following their rapturously received performance of Brahms’ Requiem in 2023, the two ensembles will reunite for Beethoven’s Mass in C, a tender and
deeply personal setting of the Latin mass that deserves to be heard more often. Other season highlights include a Frenchinspired programme featuring Debussy, Ravel, Poulenc and Mozart’s effervescent Paris Symphony.
An Open Invitation to Musicians
Settle Orchestra is more than a concert series – it’s a community. As rehearsals begin, the ensemble is extending an open invitation to musicians - especially string and brass players and younger performers –to join their ranks. Players should be at least Grade 6-7 standard (Grade 5 for strings), but there’s no formal audition. Reduced subscriptions are available for students. Rehearsals are held during school terms on Friday evenings at 7.40pm in the welcoming hall of St John’s Methodist Church, Settle. Each term culminates in two concerts – one in Settle, one in Skipton –drawing around 110 audience members at each performance. This season’s dates are 22nd and 29th of November 2025, 21st and
29th of March 2026 and 20th and 27th of June 2026.
For those who have never seen a concert from the other side of the stage, the orchestra’s open rehearsals are a revelation. Held once a term, these informal afternoons offer a glimpse into the artistry, camaraderie and dedication that transform black dots on a page into music that stirs the soul.
“Our members come from Settle, Skipton, Long Preston and surrounding towns,” said Charles Dobson, Chairman of Settle Orchestra. “We’d love to see some new faces at rehearsals this season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share a love of classical music and be part of a supportive community.”
SETTLE ORCHESTRA
ALSO WELCOMES COMPOSERS INTERESTED IN WRITING NEW WORKS FOR THE ENSEMBLE, HELPING TO KEEP THE SPIRIT OF LIVE MUSIC VIBRANT AND EVOLVING IN THE DALES
A highlight of the orchestra’s work is its annual partnership with the Royal Northern College of Music. Since 2014, the orchestra has collaborated with a new conductor each year during their second year of conducting studies. These emerging talents bring fresh perspectives and a passion for music that invigorate the orchestra and enrich the concert experience. Over the course of three terms – autumn, spring and summer – the conductor shapes each programme and adds their own artistic voice to every performance. For audiences, it’s a rare opportunity to watch a young conductor develop confidence and technique while leaving their mark on the season.
Settle Orchestra also welcomes composers interested in writing new works for the ensemble, helping to keep the spirit of live music vibrant and evolving in the Dales.
Whether you take your seat in the audience or step onto the stage, this season is your chance to experience and be part of the sound of the Dales. n
For concert details, membership information and tickets, visit the website.
DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE
Skipton-based consultancy, planning and design practice Rural Solutions is proud to help clients create spaces and places that support a thriving countryside. Director Sally Ormiston talks about the Yorkshire Dales Local Plan
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, stone-built houses and a way of life that blends tradition with community spirit. But like any living, breathing place, it also faces change – and that change needs to be carefully managed.
In 2026, a new Yorkshire Dales Local Plan is expected to be adopted. This will guide what can be built, where and how during the next 15 years.
Building new homes
Under the plan, around 750 new homes are proposed across the Dales by 2040, equating to roughly 50 each year. Twenty-three locations have been identified as suitable for development, including well-known villages such as Grassington and Bolton Abbey. The focus is firmly on affordable housing, so families can continue to live and work here, helping local schools, businesses and services to thrive.
Not surprisingly, building in a National Park is a subject that can stir debate. Many residents are understandably protective of the beauty and character of their surroundings. The Local Plan process has involved extensive public consultation, giving residents the chance to have their say before the government makes the final decision.
A guide to design
It’s not just about where homes are built, the way they look matters just as much. This is where the National Park’s Design Guide comes in. Like most National Parks, the Yorkshire Dales has a design guide to ensure the development of new buildings, conversions and even extensions, fit sensitively into their setting.
The National Park Design Guide helps to:
• Preserve local character – by setting out clear guidance on style, materials, proportions and landscaping that reflect the Dales’ identity.
Support planning decisions – offering developers a clear framework that can make the approval process smoother.
• Reflect community values – through local involvement in shaping the guidelines. In practice, this means proposals must respond to the surrounding landscape, settlement patterns and traditional building styles. While the emphasis is on heritage and harmony, contemporary design isn’t ruled out, as long as it complements the local landscape.
NOT SURPRISINGLY, BUILDING IN A NATIONAL PARK IS A SUBJECT THAT CAN STIR DEBATE
Designing for the future
From barn conversions to new-build family homes, the Design Guide helps to ensure development in the Dales enhances rather than detracts from what makes this place so special. It’s about creating homes for the future that still feel authentic and rooted in the past, so the Yorkshire Dales can remain both timeless and vibrant for generations to come. n
A different view
Rural Solutions is a consultancy, planning, architecture, and landscape practice specialising in the development of rural land and property.
Whether diversifying a land-based business, establishing a new leisure or commercial enterprise, regenerating natural landscapes, entering new nature markets, developing quality rural housing, or creating an exceptional one-off country home, our team has the expertise to help.
We specialise in sensitive development in high value landscapes, the imaginative reuse of heritage buildings, strategic development and rural placemaking.
If you would like to consider the options for maximising the value of your rural land and property assets, call us on 01756 797501 or email info@ruralsolutions.co.uk.
We’d be delighted to have a chat.
Lucia Smith’s love for the Dales shines through her work and she has described the area as “the only place I know where I can be simultaneously soothed and uplifted”.
Tell us about your connection to The Dales and Ilkley.
I have lived in many places: Canada, Australia, Birmingham and London, but I grew up in Ilkley and moved back with my young family 30 years ago. The pull is strong – it’s home. How did you become an artist? Is it something you’ve always wanted to be?
I won my first poster paints at 11 and I’ve never really stopped painting since!
What do you love about this area – and which is your favourite dale?
It has to be Wharfedale: Upper Wharfedale is the place that best restores me, uplifts me and lets me breathe. Nothing beats it.
Tell us about your quest to paint every named dale in the Yorkshire Dales National
MY DALES…
Artist Lucia Smith captures the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales using the medium of soft pastels. Here she answers questions about her work and her love for this area
Park (YDNP). What were the highlights? I wanted a nudge to explore the YDNP as a whole. I got a list of all the named dales: there were 49, a lot more than I’d anticipated! I set out to walk in each one, then capture that experience in a painting.
Along the way I found so much more than just contours and views. I discovered historical stories, geological stories and stories captured in literature. I discovered why Apedale has no apes, Kingsdale has no Kings and where secretive Mossdale flows. Each story built a fabulous connection, allowing me to layer extra meaning into the paintings.
Do you have any other quests in the pipeline? I think one was enough! I want to keep on walking and exploring the YDNP. I recently found a route high up above Semer Water in Raydale – so many footpaths yet to find!
Favourite place to eat in The Dales?
Coeliac Disease makes this difficult but The Old School Tearooms at Hebden always offers tasty gf options: it’s my favourite lunchtime destination.
Favourite place to walk/cycle or swim? I love walking up high on the moors. They are so accessible in the Yorkshire Dales! The elevated views feed your soul, the rest of the world disappears and there is a beautiful kind of quiet.
Do you have a favourite time of year in this area?
Can I have two? The changing seasons of spring and autumn are fabulous, they have
the most exciting light and joyous colours. Who would you invite to a Yorkshire dinner party – pick five guests.
The Senior YDNP Ranger who provided the Quest list.
The Yorkshire Vet who has several of my paintings – he can name the fields and barns in them! (He also trained with James Herriot.)
Author Bill Bryson, who wrote one of his books whilst in Malhamdale. His love of Yorkshire through American eyes is so entertaining. My fabulous geologist friend, Dr Robin Oldfield: I call him Dr Rock!
And my husband Paul, a very different and important kind of rock.
