Live Preston & Fylde Issue 92

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 92

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU GET YOUR 2020 OFF TO A GREAT START EDUCATION, EDUCATION, EDUCATION NURSERIES TO COLLEGES, THE BEST PLACES TO LEARN PLAN YOUR WEDDING IN EIGHT MONTHS THINGS TO DO BEFORE THE BIG DAY

EXPERIENCE OUR NEW COLLECTIONS OF SOFAS, FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES DOUBLE DISCOUNT WINTER SALE STARTS 27TH DECEMBER VISIT OUR NEW STORE AT PRESTON 227 BROOK STREET PRESTON PR1 7ND – TEL. 01772 880082

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NATUZZIEDITIONS.CO.UK

CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

28

28 GADGETS GALORE What will be the latest technology and innovation to take the gadget market by storm?

58 HELP OUR HEDGEHOGS Did you know hedgehogs are at risk of extinction? How we can all help our hedgehogs.

86 THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION Getting it right for our children, what to look for in nurseries and colleges.

122 NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY Low mortgage rates and rising buyer demand means there’s never been a better time to buy.

114 EAT WELL, LIVE WELL Eating healthily can provide those vitamins that are essential for your body.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 14 HOMES INSIDE OUT 44 FASHION 48 HEALTH & BEAUTY 56 LIFESTYLE 86 EDUCATION 100 BUSINESS 106 MOTORS 112 SPORT

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114 FOOD & DRINK 122 PROPERTY

114

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01282 447 551 www.npintegratedtechnology.co.uk NP Integrated Technology, Units 6 & 7, Vantage Court, Riverside Business Park, Barrowford, BB9 6BP

LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Tracy Hargreaves Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich, Rob Walmsley and Victoria Wren Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Photography: Roger Moore Sales Account Managers: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Michele Preston 07872 461 561 Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Kate Ford, Meena McDonald, Helen Sanderson, Stephanie Sparrow and Sarah Varley Live Magazines Limited Office 2, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 366 002 live@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Barton, Bretherton, Broughton, Buckshaw Village, Cottam, Croston, Eaves, Elswick, Garstang, Great Eccleston, Freckleton, Fulwood, Hutton, Kirkham, Little Eccleston, Longton, Lytham, Much Hoole, New Longton, Newton with Scales, Penwortham, Warton, Wesham, Whittle-Le-Woods, and Wrea Green.

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A BEAUTIFUL NEW BATHROOM TO KICK START 2020 G UA R AN T EED TO E NHA NCE A NY H O ME

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Live

Magazines Editor Welcome to our first edition of 2020. Let’s hope the new decade is full of good news and great opportunities.

Our first issue is again action packed full of features. In our business hour article, we talk to Mark Leech, director at Ribby Hall, about how his love of golf brought him to Lancashire and how a long, successful and challenging career has kept him here.

We take a look at education and how important it is in getting it right for your children. From nurseries to colleges, what should you be looking for?

2020 may be the start of a new travel journey for you, but where are the holiday hotspots for this year?

We always say, ‘new year, new you’. It’s a time when we look at making changes, either in our lifestyle, work or personal lives. Check out our articles on reviewing your finances and starting a heathier regime.

I go to visit a hedgehog rescue centre to find out how one passionate lady rescues and rehabilitates wild hedgehogs that are sick, injured or orphaned and releases them back into the wild when healthy, with the aim of increasing the population of hedgehogs.

And finally get yourself onto couch to court. How England and Lancashire Netball are encouraging women to get back into netball with taster sessions. Couch to Court will help, guide and encourage you to move from the couch to a netball court in a way that suits you, whether that’s trying a new netball session or going to a club.

Tracy Hargreaves Editor

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 92

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 91

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 115

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU GET YOUR 2020 OFF TO A GREAT START Party favourites Outfits tO make yOu sparkle this seasOn Leafy Longton a thriving village with a cOmmunity feel a Passion for fLowers Back On the farm with fields Of flOwers

EDUCATION, EDUCATION, EDUCATION NURSERIES TO COLLEGES, THE BEST PLACES TO LEARN

2020 HERE WE COME! NEW YEAR NEW YOU ADIDAS DESIGNER GARY ASPDEN EXCLUSIVE PARKRUN CLITHEROE TRANSFORMING LIVES ON THE ROAD WITH WISHBONE ASH LOCAL DRUMMER JOE CRABTREE

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley

Live Preston & Fylde Photograph courtesy of Ribble Cycles Photo by J. Ward

PLAN YOUR WEDDING IN EIGHT MONTHS THINGS TO DO BEFORE THE BIG DAY

A VENUE WITH HISTORY For those that have visited Lytham, a trip to the Lowther Pavilion is a must

L

owther Gardens cover an area of 5.65 hectares and were provided

by Squire J Talbot Clifton in 1872 in honour of his wife, Eleanor Cecily Clifton (of the Lowther family in Cumbria) and in memory of her father, who died in 1868. They were designed and laid out under the supervision of Mr Tomlinson who worked on the Clifton Estate, for the benefit of the inhabitants and visitors to Lytham, on what was previously poor grazing land known as Hungry Moor.

They were given to the authority in 1905 and shortly after in 1921 the Pavilion was built and named after Eleanor’s family name as a continuation of the gift of the gardens.

It is rumoured that the roof originally stood on stilts and was designed to be used as shelter against bad weather as stated in the 9th July 1920 Lytham Times.

The Pavilion has been used for many things over the years. Lytham Amateur Operatic society held its first musical there in 1928 with Highwayman Love. There were also orchestral evenings which gained popularity as the visitors to the gardens had something else to come and see.

It seemed as if the Pavilion was really being shaped for its future as a venue, one with high numbers of attendance and potential and throughout the years leading up to the 1950’s the Pavilion underwent a slight modification to its building design

with the addition of a cafe on the side of the building.

However, in 1976 councillors gathered for an emergency meeting to discuss the uncertain future of Lytham’s Lowther Pavilion. It had emerged that after a car had collided with part of the building exposing the steel work that the stanchions that held up the roof were discovered to be rotting beyond repair and acro-jacks had to be placed inside to stop the roof

IT IS RUMOURED THAT THE ROOF ORIGINALLY STOOD ON STILTS AND WAS DESIGNED TO BE USED AS SHELTER AGAINST BAD WEATHER

and walls collapsing.

The future wasn’t looking great, but then by some twist of fate during a production of Charlie Girl at the Ashton Pavilion in St Annes, a fire broke out completely destroying the St Annes theatre and the operatic society were forced to move to the Pavilion which saved it from demolition.

It was clear that money had to be spent on updating the facility and in 1982 that’s exactly what happened. Only the roof and floor remain as original features from construction and new dressing rooms and a stage extension were built with a large extension to the front of the building providing a new box office and toilets.

To date the Lowther stands as the 1982 alteration inside and out and is testament to the vibrant spirit that surrounds it.

localfocus

Many famous bands have played at the Lowther in the 60s and 70s, including Fleetwood Mac, Steeleye Span, Hawkwind and Curved Air. Artists who have performed in recent years include Belinda Carlisle, Robert Plant, Alexander O’Neal, John Bishop, Jason Manford and Kim Wilde to name just a few.

Lowther Pavilion and Gardens now exists to provide a leisure experience for both locals and visitors alike. The charity has year on year increased visitor numbers, and it is through support that it has grown in stature and been able to attract the world class performers that now frequent the Pavilion.

And its success continues as the Lowther Pavilion has recently been named Leisure Venue of the Year at last year’s Gazette Retail and Leisure Awards and is set to welcome some of the biggest names in showbusiness in the next 12 months.

“It was the perfect way to end the year for all the team at Lowther,” says marketing manager Ross Morgan of the award. “We had a great year in 2019 and we’re looking forward to an even better 2020!”

The venue, on West Beach, has already sold out for some of its biggest upcoming shows, including award-winning magician Ben Hart, and world-renowned Phoenix Nights clairvoyant, medium and psychic Clinton Baptiste, who will both be appearing in February.

Friends of Lowther Pavilion is a charitable organisation set up in 2008 dedicated to assisting the Lowther Pavilion Theatre.

Currently it is providing help and support raising money for improvements and refurbishments and helping to keep costs down with its volunteers. n To find out more about the Pavilion and see what’s coming up visit: lowtherpavilion.co.uk

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Straight Straightaway awaythey theyfound foundBlackburn BlackburnShowroom ShowroomManager ManagerWill WillHustler Hustlertoto bebeonontheir theirwavelength, wavelength,listening listeningtototheir theirbrief briefbut butbeing beingclear clearwhen whenhehe felt felt anan idea idea wouldn’t wouldn’t work. work.

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Danielle Daniellewanted wantedNeff Neffappliances appliancesthroughout, throughout,loving lovingthe theproduct’s product’s capabilities, capabilities, inin particular particular the the induction induction hob hob and and the the ovens ovens which which she she says says make make the the best best roast roast potatoes potatoes she’s she’s ever ever tasted! tasted!

“To “Tosay sayour ournew newkitchen kitchenhas haschanged changedthe theway waywewelive livewould wouldbebeanan understatement,” understatement,” says says Danielle, Danielle, “we “we haven’t haven’t used used our our lounge lounge inin over over sixsix months! months!We Wespend spendallallour ourtime timeasasa afamily familyininthe thekitchen kitchenand andI love I lovethe the fact fact that that it’sit’s the the perfect perfect space space forfor entertaining entertaining too.” too.”

ToToread readmore moreabout abouthow howwe wedesigned designedthis thiskitchen kitchenand andtoto view viewthe thevideo videotour tourofofit itvisit: visit:www.kitchendesigncentre.com www.kitchendesigncentre.com

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“ It“ It was was great great to to redesign redesign thisthis space space and and turn turn a u-shaped a u-shaped kitchen kitchen in in to to anan area area with with distinct distinct zones. zones.

I liked I liked how how Danielle Danielle was was open open to to mymy design design suggestions, suggestions, likelike going going with with a predominantly a predominantly white white palate palate and and incorporating incorporating a peninsular. a peninsular.

TheThe endend result result is aisstunning a stunning light light and and airy airy space.” space.”

Designer Designer is is Will Will Hustler, Hustler, Blackburn Blackburn

TIDAL’ PETROL BLUE GLOSS CERAMIC BASE £220* *base only James Kok Lighting 01772 977677 www.kok.lighting

BELLINI VELOUR CUSHION £29.99 www.loomloft.co.uk

PEACOCK ARTWORK £249 Loom Loft Barrow Brook Business Village Holly Road Barrow Clitheroe BB7 9FL 01200 404404 www.loomloft.co.uk

JEWEL COLOURS From midnight blue to emerald green, these shades are the on-trend colours for 2020 BURST OF BLUE BY GISELA UEBERALL ORIGINAL PAINTING £895 Hepplestone Fine Art Ltd Heskin Shopping Village Wood Lane Heskin Chorley PR7 5PA 01257 451121 www.hepplestonefineart.com

TRADITIONAL BANKER'S LAMP WITH GREEN SHADE & POLISHED BRASS £993 www.besselink.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

GARDEN TRADING FISKARDO NIBBLE BOWLS IN FOLIAGE GREEN SET OF THREE £25 www.gardentrading.co.uk

PAIGE CORNER GROUP £999 www.loomloft.co.uk CHATEAU DECO HERON ON MOAT CUSHION FROM £29 The Home Company High Corn Mill Chapel Hill Skipton BD23 1NL 01756 794999 www.thehomeco.net SPLASHDOWN BY FROGMAN BRONZE SCULPTURE £1463 Hepplestone Fine Art Ltd Heskin Shopping Village Wood Lane Heskin Chorley PR7 5PA 01257 451121 www.hepplestonefineart.com

AGA MARINE BLUE EVERHOT 150I £10,070 Jacksons of Preston Ltd 52-54 Tulketh Rd Ashton-on-Ribble Preston PR2 1AQ 01772 518117www.jacksons-aga.co.uk

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

Importers & stockists of exceptional tiles, stones & wood flooring

HOME CINEMA Home cinemas provide the ultimate experience in home entertainment.

We have converted loft spaces, garden rooms, cellars and redundant dining rooms to create amazing spaces to enjoy free time and family time like never before.

We listen to your requirements and work with our team of experts to provide seamless installation of the perfect audio-visual system, lighting and luxury design for you.

Technology and our clients’ desires have perpetually moved us forward, creating and recreating spaces within homes to be proud of.

Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB 01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

20

homesinsideout

Dive into 2020 with new style trends and colours that will revive and refresh your home

STYLE TRENDS W FOR 2020

ith 2020 here, the interior world is going wild for new trends to indulge in for the New Year. Home and interiors emporium Cuckooland have rounded up their top three trends for 2020, including trend colours from Dulux, modern takes on Art Deco and quirky, statement home decor to die for. Dive into their unique predictions, each taking a dip into a popular predicted trend for 2020.

TEA GARDEN

Say hello to serenity and embrace the calm with the tea garden trend. Inject a touch of the Dulux colour of the year Tranquil Dawn into a nature-based palette. Evoking the calm and natural beauty of a Japanese tea ceremony, this harmonious palette features blue in the shades of sky and sea, serene greens, lavender, yellow-green, a pungent ‘chai’ shade and a touch of mango.

SHOW STOPPERS

Bring out your inner child with the bright show-stopper trend. Inject vibrant colours into your humble abode with a powerful selection of jelly bean hues. The energy is palpable in this palette packed with lively shades. Make your home the centre of attention and wow your guests with a dynamic collection of homeware.

MODERN ART DECO

Take a trip down memory lane with the modern Art Deco trend. Update this timeless trend with a touch of modern spirit by adding sleek furniture, matte finishes and a sprinkle of velvet. Invest in timeless yet contemporary pieces that you won’t update – ever! n

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homesinsideout

TIME FOR CHANGE These stunning clocks are made by artist Craig Anthony who is celebrating his 10th year of clock-making

W

e’ve all been guilty of owning the same old clock for way too many years.

Typically the clocks we choose are circular, they have a loud tick and all too often they are made of plastic – and that’s what sets these stunning clocks apart from the rest.

Glass artist and clockmaker Craig Anthony has been getting lots of attention recently as he was a finalist in the Etsy Global Design Awards and to commemorate the clocks going forward on 29th March, as well as celebrating his 10 year anniversary of clock-making, he plans to unveil his latest batch of glassworks which will be obtainable via his website as well as his Etsy store.

Measuring a sleek and slender 24” x 6” these clocks can fit anywhere in your home and with the option of adding an oak stand means that they are also perfect for window sills or bedside tables.

But wait, there’s more!

If you really want to impress your visitors go ahead and get yourself the upgraded oak stands. These feature remote control ambient backlighting and you’ll be stunned at how beautiful they look at nightime.

If it’s ‘time’ for a change and you are seeking to add a dash of elegance to your walls or add a sprinkle of colour to the window sill, you will be spoilt for choice when you see the entire collection.

They really are a beautiful way to tell the time.

Craig Anthony launched his decorative arts company Reformations to enable him to introduce his work to a wider audience and feed his passion for making.

His work has functional elements combined with highly decorative and abstract attributes and takes inspiration from the natural world.

Living in rural mid-Wales, a landscape that contains open moorland, mountains, woods, lakes and rivers Craig is surrounded by the shifting patterns and colours that feed his creativity.

Each unique creation is handmade in his studio. n Clocks from £49

www.reformations.co.uk

GAS STYLE

O U R JA N UA RY S A L E STA RT S S AT U R DAY 4 R D JA N UA RY C A L L I N TO V I E W O U R L A RG E R A NG E OF : S TOV E A N D L O G BU R N E R S | G AS F I R E S | E L E C T R I C F I R E S B E SP OK E F I R E P L AC E S | P E L L E T STOV E S C OM B I B OI L E R S | C E N T R A L H E AT I NG SYS T E M S FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE SUBJECT TO TERMS AND CONDITIONS ASK FOR DETAILS

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homesinsideout

GADGETS GALORE With the start of a new decade what will be the latest technology and innovation to take the gadget market by storm? Writes Chris Shaw

overwhelming and expensive to make the right decision.

In 2020, at least two more major competitors will join the fray: HBO Max and Peacock, with the latter rumoured to be ad-supported.

This streaming war is just getting started, and each will have their own original content.

Internet of Things ‘IoT’

IoT is simply the network of interconnected things/devices which are embedded with sensors, software, network connectivity and necessary electronics that enables them to collect and exchange data making them responsive.

More of our home devices now encompass this technology and 2020 will see even more new devices released in order to make using technology much simpler and interactive.

On-line streaming services

Do you remember a world before streaming services? When you had to watch TV at a certain time? With commercials? It feels like a distant memory now.

There’s never been so much choice when it comes to streaming services, which is great for viewers in some respect, but it can be

You’ve got the market leader, Netflix, which has become the default streaming service for many. There’s also the Amazon Prime Video service that comes as part of an Amazon Prime subscription, HBO Now for shows like Game of Thrones or Westworld, and the likes of Hulu, YouTube TV and Sling for getting live TV without the hefty monthly bills.

More recently, Disney has entered the fray with Disney Plus, which hosts shows and movies from Star Wars, Marvel and more.

Apple has also thrown its hat into the ring with Apple TV Plus, which may not be able to compete with the rest when it comes to back catalogue, but has ambitious plans for fresh new programming.

Smart technology to prevent leaks in your home

Imagine if your home was as smart as your phone. Imagine if it took care of you, the same way you take care of it. Imagine if it could protect your things, your family – or intelligently help you to conserve resources, save money and protect the planet.

A new device, SONIC, is the smartest leak protection system ever created. It measures the flow of water through your home and intelligently analyses it around the clock to detect leaks, protect your property, and help you to save water (and money). n

TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY FIRES, FIREPLACES AND STOVES Unit 10, Momentum Place, Bamber Bridge, PR5 6EF 01772 811 722 www.thefirebarn.co.uk

BRINGING THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR TO YOUR HOME The UKs leading manufacture of bespoke staircase design, grand design staircases and staircase renovations.

Unit 1 Chapel Lane Business Park Chapel Lane Coppull PR7 4NB

homesinsideout Taking part in this great British craft are Ella Doran, Margo Selby and Divine Savages with archive carpet designs by Lucienne Day, one of Britain’s most influential and best-loved 20th century designers.

Alternative’s Stair Art comprises eight patterns in a total of 17 colourways: Waterlake and Camo by Ella Doran Waterlake is inspired by the flow of water on the estate at Yorkshire Sculpture Park while Camo by the bark of Plane trees of London Fields, Ella’s local park.

Deco by Divine Savages Deco is taken from Divine Savages Deco Martini design which draws inspiration from the roaring 20s and the decadent tastemakers of the jazz age.

Patch and Fair Isle by Margo Selby Patch and Fair Isle are vibrant graphic patterns inspired by hand-woven textiles

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MAKE FLOORING FUN Why should walls have all the fun? Alternative Flooring believe life is too short to live in dull spaces and flooring should be allowed to have some fun too

A

s daring originators, it has collaborated with some of the best-loved names in the interior world from designers and weavers to a leading fabric house to create more contemporary, quirky and playful patterns for your floors. From dots to diamonds, hearts to animal skins, you can find the perfect narrow width floor runner for your home.

At the recent Focus/19 London Design Festival Alternative Flooring launched its Stair Art collection of patterned wool runners. This is textile floor art with a series of runners by British designers in British wool and expertly woven by Alternative Flooring on Axminster looms in Wilton, bringing together traditional techniques and contemporary design.

developed by Margo Selby on her loom and recreated and blown up to make stair art.

Octagon plus Squares and Diamonds

by Lucienne Day Two Lucienne Day designs from the 1960s, Octagon plus Squares and Diamonds in original vibrant colourways.

Stars by Alternative Flooring stars Fun and playful, the bold design of the Quirky Stars Red Sky patterned carpet will work not only in bedrooms but also in the hall, landing and of course on the stairs.

Tribe by Alternative Flooring tribal The Quirky Tribe Axminster carpet runner is bold, full of pattern and interest. It will add vibrancy and art to often forgotten areas of the home including the stairs.

So, why not let your imagination run wild and add instant character and vitality to your home? You can go stripey, designer, rocky, demure or even mix and match your Stair Art if you’re feeling very daring.

We have the full Stair Art collection in our showroom for you to have a look at and even try out at home so you can see just how easily it can bring your home to life.

Pop in and see us anytime. n

Gainsborough Flooring Ltd 26 Heatley Street, (off Corporation Street) Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682 www.gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

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

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

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homesinsideout

MINDFUL LIVING FOR THE NEW YEAR Have a fresh start to the New Year taking stock of how you live, taking a step back from the digital, the noisy and the overwhelming

B

uilding a calm, peaceful and sustainable home reduces anxiety and encourages a love of the little moments.

Organic cotton towels bring a sense of tranquility and luxury to a bathroom.

GOTS certified means they are better for the environment (94 per cent less greenhouse gasses and 91 per cent less clean water used), better for the workers (ensuring socially responsible conditions and farms) and better for you (no harmful manufacturing chemicals).

Give greenery a stylish new home with modern vases you wouldn’t find at your gran’s house! Handmade by artisans in Vietnam, they are crafted in fair working conditions, with fair pay and supported educational programmes.

Noteworthy Style’s fine art prints are illustrated in-house and printed in London, this artwork keeps everything personal and handmade in Great Britain, from original

illustrations to printing.

The hand poured, UK-made candles contain no animal derived materials or parabens – they feature recyclable materials wherever possible and virtually no plastics.

For a great, clean burning results, the candles are 100 per cent plant-based wax, which is palm free.

Designed to evoke states of mind and unspoken sensations that only smell can communicate the aesthetic is clear and simple, with candles that look good letting the fragrance do the talking.

Made from heavy 100 per cent linen with vintage wash, cushion covers have a soft colour palette with on-trend fringing.

A fresh attitude for any season.

Perfect for minimal Scandinavian homes, industrial lofts and sophisticated tonal decors, this season’s earthy coloured lamps have a simplistic, timeless design for understated beauty.

Also featuring bowls and plates, this eco homeware collection is elegant even for everyday living, drawing on inspiration from nature, creating products that evoke the spirit of coastal living bringing a natural sense of balance into the home. n www.noteworthy.style

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SHINING LIGHT Lighting plays an incredibly important part of our life and no-one understands that better than industry expert James Kok. Photography: Robin Lyndon

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new showroom where quality and style shines, is providing discerning homeowners with premium lighting solutions.

Offering lighting that you won’t find anywhere else on the high street, James Kok Lighting’s showroom unveils a whole new world when it comes to the latest designs.

“Sourcing our lighting is very important to us,” explains owner James Kok, who set up his lighting consultancy business in 2013 after successfully managing his parent’s lighting business, which was regarded as one of the finest in the North of England.

“At James Kok Lighting we like to feature outstanding design coupled with great service.

We like to be different and we have opened

the showroom as we appreciate that clients like to see certain lights in-situ.”

Sourcing some of their lighting in the UK, many products are also carefully selected from skilled manufacturers throughout Europe including Spain, Italy and Germany.

“That is made from crystal in Austria,” says James, pointing to a beautiful, mirrored chandelier that would be just as at home in a classic or contemporary setting.

The light illuminates the room as James instructs: “Google turn on the big light.”

Working on high-tech integrated projects as well as more traditional home systems, James Kok Lighting collaborates with other premium interiors companies, including kitchen designer Stuart Frazer and Bernard Dickinson, which supplies ‘smart home’ solutions, from automated blinds to security lighting.

“Again, quality and service are at the heart of everything we do,” explains James.

“We work on voice activated solutions that can prompt the lightbulbs to change colour and, working with others, this can be

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integrated into a whole smart home system.

“We work on new builds and extensions as well as with home-owners who may just want to update lighting in one room.

“On new builds we can create whole exterior and interior lighting schemes. We liaise with architects and homeowners to draw up a plan to indicate each lighting point in the property.”

Once this has been created James will produce visuals to get an idea of the client’s preferred style: “We want customers to be able to come to the showroom, relax, have a coffee and spend time choosing their lighting. Lighting is hugely important – it creates ambience in a home and can make a real statement.”

Working predominantly on domestic projects, James predicts that crystal is making a welcome comeback in current lighting trends.

“While the industrial trend is still very strong, smaller LEDs are enabling manufacturers to create some stunning designs,” says James, pointing to a spiralling ceiling light made of narrow LED strips illuminating an array of tiny twinkling crystals – a lighting show-stopper that becomes a focal point to a room.

“It’s a case of combining excellent design with absolute manufacturing quality,” concludes James. “If anyone wants advice on any lighting solution, they can give us a call, come in for a chat and see what we have to offer.” n For inspiration and to view some stunning case studies from James Kok Lighting go to: www.kok.lighting

James Kok Lighting 13 Cable Court (FREE PARKING OUTSIDE) Pittman Way, Fulwood PR2 9YW 01772 977677 www.kok.lighting

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homesinsideout

such as carrots, radishes, lettuces and tomatoes. Herbs and peas are also a safe bet along with edible flowers like nasturtium and marigold.

Sound – easily created by planting bamboo and ornamental grasses that rustle gently in the breeze. A water feature is great for birds and wildlife, and lets the soothing sounds of running water create a natural soundtrack.

This is still a tidy-up time in the garden but you can start thinking ahead. Take some tips from TV gardener and presenter David Domoney: “Get more plants for free by saving seeds from your favourite plants. You can collect seeds from your garden and the wild, but make sure you have labeled the seeds clearly so you know what they are next spring! It’s important to keep the lawn clear of any fallen leaves as they can harbour disease and harm the grass. Rake them up and put them in a compost bin, then apply a fertiliser.” n

Taste – there’s nothing better than picking and eating vegetables and fruit which you have grown yourself. Start with easy growers

Photography: Can Stock Photo Jgorzynik

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sensory garden is a great addition to any outdoor space.

You don’t need a large space to make an impact – sensory spaces can be any size, ranging from a window box to a large open area. If you are planning or designing a sensory garden for someone with limited mobility then consider ramps or sloped access paths plus raised beds and plants that are accessible for anyone in a wheelchair.

Think about the sights, smells, textures, tastes and sounds you love and plant them into your garden:

Sight – include flowers, leaves, berries, and grasses in your garden to create interest throughout the year. Sunflowers have bright and bold flowers and are fast growers.You could also plant hydrangeas, as they produce large colourful blooms which are great to touch.

Smell – honeysuckle will fill the air and lemon scented geranium has crinkly leaves that smell of lemon when rubbed. There’s also the popular chocolate cosmos, which smells like a chocolate-vanilla mixture and herbs such as lavender, rosemary, thyme and mint.

Touch – a sensory garden can be full of different textures such as lamb’s ear which feels woolly and soft to the touch and silver sage with large, silvery-white leaves covered in cotton wool like down. Ornamental grasses like Mexican feather are also popular.

Photography: Can Stock Photo Sandbouvier

Known to have great health benefits by providing a calm and relaxing environment, sensory gardens are designed to stimulate the five senses – sight, smell, touch, taste and sound

Photography: Can Stock Photo Paul Maguire

CREATING A FEEL-GOOD GARDEN

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BEATS BY DR DRE POWERBEATS PRO TOTALLY WIRELESS EARPHONES £219 www.very.co.uk

BARBOUR INTERNATIONAL REED GILET £99.95 www.barbour.com

CREW NECK T-SHIRT £6 www.matalan.co.uk FITBIT VERSA LITE MARINA BLUE £129.99 www.very.co.uk SOULUXE ACTIVEWEAR AVAILABLE FROM MATALAN www.matalan.co.uk NIKE BLACK AND BLUE AIR MAX OKETO TRAINER £49 www.deichmann.com

ON YOU R M A R K S . ..

Whether running, walking or at the gym, check out these accessories that will take you through the day

NATIONAL TRUST BACKPACK IN NAVY £70 www.shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

GREY OVERDYE PUFFER JACKET £120 www.topman.com

CIRCUIT SEAMLESS T-SHIRT £45 www.everysecondcounts.co.uk

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WOMEN'S METALLIA II METALLIC QUILTED JACKET MAGNET GREY £90 www.regatta.com

M&S COLLECTION PADDED JACKED £45 www.marksandspencer.com

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FIGLEAVES NEW BALANCE SPORTS LEGGINGS £60 www.figleaves.com/uk

Get ready for a serious workout with these functional yet stylish accessories FITBIT CHARGE 3 FITNESS TRACKER ROSE GOLD BLUE GREY £119.99 www.very.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

FOLDING X-FRAME EXERCISE BIKE £129.99 www.very.co.uk

ADIDAS CRAZYCHAOS TRAINER £54.99 www.adidas.co.uk

SAINSBURY'S HOME LET'S DO THIS DRINKS BOTTLE £10 www.sainsburys.co.uk

BEATS BY DR DRE STUDIO 3 WIRELESS HEADPHONES £299.95 www.beatsbydre.com/uk

PERSONALISED GREY YOGA MAT £34.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk FIGLEAVES FREYA FREESTYLE SOFT CROP SPORTS BRA £31 www.figleaves.com/uk

HOW TO GET 2020 VISION IN 2020 Getting the best vision is simple, right? You get your eyes tested and you buy some glasses.

But think about how far technology has come in the last 10 years. Has eye testing made the same progress?

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he answer is yes, but not everywhere. That’s why The Spectacle Factory wanted to showcase some of the technologies that you might not realise are available to you.

1. Forget about a prescription.

Time to get an i.Scription.

Your eye is more unique than your fingerprint. Using an i.Profiler, we can scan the lens in your eye, picking up all the tiny details that make it your own. This gives us your i.Scription, which being 25x more accurate than a standard prescription, improves your night vision, colour vision and contrast perception.

2. See the difference in Virtual Reality.

VR allows you to see the difference new glasses could make before you buy them.

You can compare the various lens options to make sure you get the best vision possible.

3. Choosing the right glasses just got easier.

Most people find trying on dozens of frames frustrating and it’s hard to know what styles you suit. The new Visufit 1000 is a game changer. By taking a 3D scan of your face, it allows you to objectively see how you look in many different styles from any angle. Picking the right pair becomes simple.

Most people don’t consider how much difference better glasses and vision could make to them. Why not make 2020 vision top of your list? n To find out more visit: www.thespectaclefactory.com

WANT GREAT GLASSES? Come to Lancashire’s top rated optician

Call 01772 312213 or visit www.thespectaclefactory.com To book your eye test and vision consultation

THE top-rated opticians in Lancashire according to Google reviews

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health&beauty

SET YOUR OWN GOALS

T

he one thing to remember is that if you want to change anything you don’t necessarily have to wait until the new year.

It can be an excuse to put things off. Set yourself a start date and be realistic about what it is you want to achieve. Doing too many things and you are likely to fail, as you won’t have the time and that will only be disheartening.

It’s usually a time, when after all the indulgence of the festive season we look to start eating healthily and getting more exercise.You don’t need to join expensive gyms, there are plenty of online apps you can use and do your exercise in the comfort of your own home. Try and get outside more, getting some fresh air will make you feel so much better.

The cold weather can dry out our skin.

Cut down on that caffeine, make sure you keep skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and choose a moisturiser suitable for your skin. As we age, we need to change our beauty routine to keep it soft and supple.

Reducing our sugar intake can only be good for us. But don’t do it all at once.

Try small things like cutting out sugar in

It’s that time of year again when we are bombarded with adverts about improving our lifestyle, reviewing our finances, changing our careers and making a will, so what are your plans this year?

Writes Tracy Hargreaves tea and coffee, then moving from milk chocolate to dark chocolate which is better for us and contains more antioxidants.

Swap sugary drinks to water and a small amount of cordial to begin with. Add more fruit and vegetables into your diet, particularly dark green vegetables such as broccoli and kale.

The trend for 2020 is to encourage people not to buy any new clothes for a year.

In today’s throw-away society and fast fashion, this can be hard to do. With sustainability high on the agenda, think about whether you actually need new clothes and can go without. You’ll not only be saving money but helping the environment. What’s more if you’re starting to lose weight with your healthy eating you might just fit back into those clothes you were going to throw away.

Make some time for you. As much as you

might love scrolling through social media and playing games on your phone, cutting down your screen time may be a necessary move in the new year. It’ll ensure that you have time to accomplish your goals and aren’t distracted by how others are living their lives. (Not comparing yourself to others, alone, can be life-changing ad you’ll feel better for it).

Set yourself a challenge of doing something new this year. Whether it’s starting a new hobby, joining a new fitness class, doing a park run or simply getting outside more.

There are plenty of activities out there and you never know, it might lead to something else.

You can create your own new year new you, by taking a step back and doing something that’s realistic, achievable and is good for you too.

Happy New Year. n

health&beauty

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she also sells a range of professional skincare products, including some designed specifically to deal with problems of pigmentation, ageing and oily or acne affected skin. Until the end of March, she’s offering 10 per cent off any facial products purchased when booking any facial, and her Christmas offer of 50 per cent off HIFU is extended until the end of February, due to popularity.

WORK WONDERS THIS WINTER This skin and aesthetics expert believes the winter months are the perfect time to prepare yourself for spring, writes Kate Ford.

Photography: Roger Moore

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f you’re starting to feel like winter will never end and that the past few months have taken a toll on both your skin and waistline, then maybe it’s time to take some positive steps towards springtime.

Aesthetics expert, Liv Hindmoor, understands exactly how the winter months can leave people needing a confidence boost.

A fully accredited specialist in non-surgical aesthetics, Liv runs a professional clinic, 3D Aesthetics Ltd, which offers a range of clinically proven, non-invasive treatments for the body and face.

“Winter conditions can leave skin looking tired, dry and dull,” she says. “Then, of course, there are all those extra inches we put on, which is entirely understandable in a season of celebration and parties.

“The good news for the new year is that these problems can definitely be solved, with some cleverly chosen, bespoke treatments that are tailored to your individual needs.”

Liv uses the most advanced 3D Lipo technology available in the UK to break down fat cells, either by freezing, ultrasound or radio waves, targeting problem areas like the waistline, hips, thighs and bottom.

Many of her clients have dropped a dress size and Liv finds their delighted reactions so rewarding.

“Our main aim is to help people feel better about themselves and improve their confidence, achieving real results for real people,” says Liv.

OUR MAIN AIM IS TO HELP PEOPLE FEEL BETTER ABOUT THEMSELVES AND IMPROVE THEIR CONFIDENCE Liv also offers a range of facials that help clients achieve the fresh, clear skin they’re seeking as spring approaches. One of her most popular treatments is the famous HIFU non-surgical facelift which applies the strongest level of ultrasound you can to the skin, targeting collagen and elastin cells, causing them to contract and leading to lifting and tightening. Her less intense microdermabrasion treatments polish and buff up the skin, leaving a flawless complexion.

Liv provides full aftercare advice to help clients get the most from their results and

“When it comes to the HIFU, I offer a thorough, professional service and the results can be quite astounding,” says Liv, who runs a very friendly clinic. “All treatments are medically tested and proven, and they’re also a very relaxing, pleasant experience.”

Liv offers free 30-minute consultations to establish exactly what results her clients want to achieve and then offers personalised solutions. Packages are priced individually and Liv prides herself on keeping her treatments affordable. She also works with a fully qualified nurse providing anti-wrinkle injections, Fillers, Advanced Fillers and B12 injections. n

3D Aesthetics Ltd Barton Grange Hotel, Garstang Road Barton, Preston PR3 5AA 07837 589847 info@3daesthetics.co.uk www.3daesthetics.co.uk @3daestheticsltd

TOM FORD RESEARCH CRÈME CONCENTRATE £320 A hydrating, ultra-rich cream that feels feather-light on skin, infusing it with luminosity and radiance for an energised appearance. www.tomford.co.uk

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CHANEL LE TONIQUE ANTI-POLLUTION INVIGORATING TONER £29 In the morning, this awakens and tones skin to reveal its pure translucent glow.

In the evening, it soothes while removing the last traces of makeup. www.chanel.com

These luxurious products will leave your skin fresh, bright and silky soft

FOREO LUNA 3 FACIAL CLEANSING & FIRMING MASSAGER £169 The ultimate addition to your cleansing ritual, featuring T-Sonic™ pulsations. www.foreo.com

NATURA BISSE DIAMOND COCOON SHEER CREAM SPF 30 PA++ £195 Stanley House Hotel & Spa Further Lane Mellor BB2 7NP 01254 769200 www.stanleyhouse.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

HERBIVORE PINK CLAY CLEANSING BAR £10 Each hand crafted bar is made with French pink clay known for drawing out impurities. It cleanses without stripping or drying out skin and the silky smooth lather helps soften the skin with a light citrus and floral scent. www.cultbeauty.co.uk

ELF KEEP YOUR BALANCE HYDRATING TONER £9 This gentle toner removes impurities and refreshes the skin with hyaluronic acid, witch hazel and aloe.

The result is soft, fresh and balanced skin. www.elfcosmetics.co.uk SISLEY BLACK ROSE SKIN INFUSION CREAM £141.50 The perfect daily skin care for re-plumping the skin and promoting the complexion's radiance. www.sisley-paris.com

ELEMIS PRO COLLAGEN CLEANSING BALM £44 This powerful cleanser easily dissolves make-up, daily grime and pollutants for a soft and glowing complexion. www.elemis.com

PIXI GLOW TONIC £18 This award-winning, invigorating toner deeply cleanses and gently exfoliates all skin types in one lovely step. www.pixibeauty.co.uk

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health&beauty

Winter is approaching and while injury cannot be altogether prevented, we can certainly do a lot to reduce the risks and prepare for the challenges of skiing and snowboarding, writes expert Jane Connolly of Whalley Physio

SKI FIT 3. The inner thigh muscles work hard to keep your skis together whilst the outer thigh muscles keep your body stable and help turning. Try exercises like side lunges, side planks and monster walk. Remember the more dynamic the exercise, the better.

4. The calf muscles, especially soleus, work hard to stabilise the knee in a bent position. They also generate pressure through the forefoot to control the equipment, speed and direction. These muscles often need to be stretched as well as strengthened.

5. The back has to work hard to maintain a flexed position against gravity. To

protect the spine from injury, the core must be conditioned.Work these muscles with exercises like bicycle crunches, plank, medicine ball twists, lunge wood chops and back extensions.

6. Don’t forget to work your biceps and triceps along with your back. Arms help push off with your poles while stabilising your shoulder joints.

Exercises on the Bosu ball or in single leg standing can be added to improve balance and weight transference, which is essential for turning. It takes six to 12 weeks to noticeably improve your fitness, so start now! n

• Physiotherapy assessment • Relief from musculoskeletal problems • Sports injuries • Rehabilitation Victory House, The Sidings, Whalley, Lancashire BB7 9SE.

01254 823183

whalleyphysiotherapy.co.uk info@whalleyphysiotherapy.co.uk

Why Whalley Physiotherapy?

The Whalley Physiotherapy Clinic boasts a wide range of treatments designed to improve the quality of life and personal performance of our clients, whether providing relief from musculoskeletal problems or enhancing fitness for sports activities.

Photography: Can Stock Photo Monkey Business

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t’s easy to forget just how physical a whole days skiing can be. A good baseline fitness means you’re less likely to be fatigued, a common cause of injury, and if you’ve a niggling injury, now is the time to get it dealt with, rather than two weeks before you travel.

We’ve all experienced the ‘burn’ in the legs with the build-up of lactic acid so if you really want to ski longer, harder and safer, you need a ski fitness programme that includes endurance, strength and flexibility.

To improve cardiovascular fitness, you need aerobic sessions of at least 20 minutes three times a week. It’s also important to recognise you need high levels of balance, coordination and dynamic lateral movement which is why at Whalley Physio we use the Skiers Edge which provides the best ski specific fitness workout. The key muscle groups to strengthen for skiing or snowboarding are: 1. The quadriceps which hold you in position and provide protection for your knees. Great exercises for the quadriceps are lunges and squats.

2. The hamstrings and glutes work hard to stabilise your body in that flexed position. Exercises include kettle bell swings, one leg bridge, step ups and hamstring rolls.

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GET YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS BACK IN 2020 Emma Pearce, founder and director of EMA Cosmetic Beauty Clinic, tells us why her Plasma Pen treatments are the answer to achieving more youthful looks in 2020

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mma Pearce is a much sought-after aesthetic skin specialist with 18 years’ professional experience, with clients travelling to her Preston clinic from across the country because they trust her to achieve the anti-ageing results they are searching for.

“Have you hit an age where you are starting to notice lines, sags, and bags that seem to age you, your makeup is just not sitting right anymore, and it’s starting to bother you or even affect your confidence? This is where I can help,” says Emma.

“Ageing is a fact of life and though it may seem like bad news, it’s really not,” reassures Emma. “With today’s scientifically proven technology and the help of an experienced aesthetic skin specialist, your youthful looks can be rediscovered.You don’t need to look your age no matter how old you are – with the right help, advice, care and treatment.

“Plasma Pen can target any problem areas and results have exceeded all expectations,” says Emma. “It is fantastic for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the lips, crows feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids and chest

lines. I have achieved results with Plasma Pen that have been truly life-changing for my clients.

“It’s a non-invasive procedure which tightens the skin, providing results which last up to three years,” explains Emma. “It allows me to target precise areas of the skin needing help, by rebuilding

YOU DON’T NEED TO LOOK YOUR AGE NO MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE – WITH THE RIGHT HELP, ADVICE, CARE AND TREATMENT

and strengthening the skin’s scaffolding to as it was in youthful years, turning back the clock.

It stimulates collagen and elastin production, for dramatic results which keep improving as the weeks go by.

“There’s no need to resort to surgery, we can achieve the same results from just one or two Plasma treatments,” says Emma. “It’s virtually pain-free with minimal downtime. Often only one treatment is needed and I have yet to have a client who isn’t completely delighted with the results. My treatments are the best available anywhere, but without London prices.” n

ONE-TIME OFFER Plasma pen treatments start at £250 per area. Emma is offering Live Preston and Fylde readers a one-time offer: Buy one area treatment and get the second area half price until 28th February. An amazing saving to start 2020 that will not be repeated.

TESTIMONIALS “My neck, jowl and lip lines were really concerning me but I put off having treatment, feeling I was too old to want it. Emma totally reassured me and it’s the best decision I’ve made in a while. The entire process and results have exceeded my expectations. I feel happier and more confident than I have for a long time.”

Anne H “I had my lower face Plasma treatment at EMA and have seen great results in skin-tightening and line reduction, making me look younger.”

Christina Knowles

EMA Cosmetic Beauty Clinic Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2NJ 07547 802062 info@emacosmeticbeautyclinic.com www.emacosmeticbeautyclinic.com

LIVE LIFE LIGHTER Being overweight can be a medical concern, and losing it can be hard. Now, there’s a new way to lose weight, that helps you take back control of your eating habits, health and body

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octor Miguel Montero and Gill Montero are the husband and wife team behind multiaward-winning Discover Laser Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Burnley. They are the first to admit that the battle to lose weight can be tough.

“Both Gill and myself, have seen the pounds creep on over the years,” says Miguel. “Our busy work lives and social life do nothing to help us keep our waistlines in check.

“As a doctor, I am well aware of the potential long-term health concerns linked to obesity, which include diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Despite this, once we get over a certain weight, a strict routine of diet and exercise can be overwhelming, and it’s all too easy to do nothing and hope for the best.

“The best way to lose weight is to reduce the amount we consume, make healthier choices and increase our activity levels. This way, our bodies use up fat stores to make up the extra energy needed to function, and our weight falls.

“I know that making small changes and integrating them into daily life can make a big difference. I also know that sticking to a strict diet and exercise regime is easier said than done.

“It was my own and Gill’s struggles with weight loss that led me to research medicalbased approaches to boost our efforts. As a result, we are now partners in the National Weight Loss Programme, and are helping ourselves, and our patients, reach weight loss goals.

“Our new DiscoverLight programme works in two ways, targeting internal visceral fat that causes health issues, and external

subcutaneous fat which affects body shape.

“Firstly, we prescribe a medication that curbs hunger and reduces appetite, so you can still enjoy the healthy foods you love but feel less inclined to overeat. This helps to increase your willpower as you commit to restricting food intake, making healthier choices and increasing daily activity levels.

“Secondly, we harness the power of safe and effective laser technology to reduce inches and remove stubborn body fat. As a laser specialist, we knew the combination of weight loss medication with clinicallyproven, non-invasive Verju body contouring treatments would achieve the best results.

“We can successfully treat people with a BMI over 30 (27 in certain cases), who, after an initial medical consultation, we know are suitable for treatment. As with all weight-loss programmes, results can’t be guaranteed, but dramatic weight-loss can be achieved with the right level of commitment and our support.

“The road to weight loss and better health can be a long and difficult one. We are committed to giving people an easier route and help them live life lighter and healthier ourselves included.” ■

WE ARE NOW PARTNERS IN THE NATIONAL WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME, AND ARE HELPING OURSELVES, AND OUR PATIENTS, REACH WEIGHT LOSS GOALS

DiscoverLight Medical Weight Loss Programme is only available at Discover Laser Medical Clinic.

To see if it’s right for you, visit discoverlaser.co.uk or call their friendly team on 01282 420886

DISCOVER LASER, CROW WOOD ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT | www.discoverlaser.co.uk

FREE - BESTSELLING CARB & CALORIE COUNTER BOOK for all DiscoverLight Weight Loss Programme Patients

YOUR STAY YOUR WAY this Valentine’s Day

ribbyhall.co.uk/spa-breaks AWARD WINNING

LET’S TAKE A RIDE R idden in Rome, road-tested in Rivington and hand built to order on the outskirts of Preston, Lancashire-based Ribble Cycles has developed a global reach.

From Tokyo to Tockholes, competitors, commuters, off-road enthusiasts, and leisure riders are relishing Ribble’s products.

Whether it’s the stylish lightweight electric bike range, or the award-winning race bikes, the 120-year old brand demonstrates that it caters for all interests and abilities.

Founded on Water Lane Preston in 1897 overlooking the River Ribble, Ribble Cycles grew to become synonymous with premium road bikes, and by 1992 was the Olympic partner of the British cycling team.

In 2017 under new ownership, with fresh investment and a new leadership team Andy Smallwood joined as CEO. Bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience,

Ribble Cycles draws on its Lancashire heritage and the latest technology to develop award-winning bikes for all abilities.

Stephanie Sparrow reports

Andy’s vision is to establish Ribble Cycles as the number one British premium bike brand and a global player, through world-class product and by revolutionising bicycle retail.

THIS IS YOUR BIKE, YOUR WAY “I knew Ribble of old and that there was a heritage there,” says Morecambe-born Andy.

“I also felt that the British bicycle industry needed a premium brand that would fly the flag for the UK.” He has revived the brand, now based at Walton Summit, by developing a new

passion and belief throughout the business and focusing on the British craftsmanship of personalised, high-end yet accessible bikes, backed up by the latest research and development into materials and aerodynamics, rather than mass production.

“Customers are attracted to the marketleading technology, product design, and to our Bike Builder and CustomColour online tools which allow them to design and specify their bikes before they are hand-built in our workshop,” he says.

As commercial director David Stacey explains, the online tool allows customers to select from five ranges (electric, road,

lifestyle

cyclocross, mountain bikes, time trial, triathlon and track) specify their frame size, and then choose component options such as saddles or wheelsets.

“This is your bike, your way,” says David.

Alternatively, customers can visit the Walton Summit showroom in Bamber Bridge, where the friendly team will find the right bike for you.

NO COMPARABLE BIKE BRAND OFFERS THAT LEVEL OF CUSTOMISATION AND PERSONALISATION “No comparable bike brand offers that level of customisation and personalisation,” says Andy. “We have a team of experts here in Walton Summit, with each bike hand crafted from start to finish by one mechanic.”

The bikes are then delivered direct to customers’ home or can be collected from the Ribble showrooms at Walton Summit, Birmingham Mailbox and Bluewater shopping centres.

“Because we sell direct to the customer without the usual middlemen of distributors or bike dealers, we can pass on the savings

directly to the customer,” says head of product Jamie Burrow. “Not only do they get a world-class product but great value for money as well.”

Andy, Jamie and a team of 80, including mechanics and designers (all passionate cyclists) have developed and launched a range of 26 bikes within the past two years.

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Their hard work is reaping rewards.

For example, the superlight electric bike Hybrid AL e was one of The Guardian’s “Top gadgets of 2019”, while the Ribble Pro-Cycling Team rode its products to great success last season, topping the domestic race league.

Andy and the team at Ribble are keen to nurture the local cycling community, whether this means ensuring that all the bikes are available on Cycle to Work schemes, or organising weekly Ride Out nights for all ability levels from Walton Summit (starting again in April) to indoor coaching on static bikes for younger riders.

“At Ribble Cycles we are passionate about cycling and offering cyclists of all abilities and disciplines the best performing bikes at every price point,” Andy says. n

Ribble Cycles 363 Leach Place, Walton Summit Centre Preston PR5 8AS 01772 336800 www.ribblecycles.co.uk

Designing a bike to suit your size, capabilities and interests allows cycling to remain in your fitness regime, long after New Year resolutions are forgotten.

So says Jamie Burrow, a former professional World Tour racer, now head of product at Ribble Cycles.

“If canal paths or riding around Belmont are your thing then the cross-gravel range known as CGR, which is equally adaptable to ride to work, is a suitable choice”, he says.

Meanwhile novice riders can boost their confidence with Ribble’s electric bike range.

The lightweight battery hidden within the downtube lets riders call on its assistance when fatigued and be reassured that over 60km of power assistance is at their disposal.

“An e bike like the Hybrid AL e allows you to build your distances and stamina incrementally. You will enjoy the ride more because you know you can get home,” says Jamie.

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lifestyle place a shallow dish of water in your garden. If you want to feed them, get some cat food, preferably chicken based or kitten biscuits. With the warmer temperatures over the winter months, many no longer hibernate, but might find shelter under a shed. Put some dry hay underneath to keep them warm. They also do not have fleas, unless they are poorly. But they are not to be handled or treated as pets.”

HELP OUR HEDGEHOGS Did you know hedgehogs are endangered and at risk of extinction?

I didn’t until I went along to Chorley Hedgehog Rescue to find out more about the amazing work that goes on to save these beautiful creatures, writes Tracy Hargreaves themselves. The centre is now in its fifth year and is getting busier than ever. Currently there are 150 hedgehogs being cared for by Janette and her team, with an additional 50 in foster care with volunteers and that figure looks set to rise.

WE ARE A BUSY, THRIVING HOSPITAL PROVIDING CRITICAL AND INTENSIVE CARE FOR HEDGEHOGS

O

n arriving at the hedgehog centre I was greeted by several volunteers busy cleaning out hutches, sorting out food and keeping up to date with the notes for every hedgehog at the rescue.

Every nook and cranny of founder Janette Jones’ home and garden is taken up with hedgehogs, all of which have been brought in by members of the public, injured, ill or just too small to look after

Janette is clearly passionate about what she does. “It’s a 24/7 job and I never switch off,” she says. “We are a not for profit organisation and it costs us around £1500-£2000 a month, which goes towards vet bills, medication, food, hutches and much more.”

Janette is fully qualified in hedgehog rehabilitation and is keen to educate people on how to keep them safe. “Hedgehogs need to keep hydrated, but never give them milk, as they are lactose intolerant, simply

Chorley Hedgehog Rescue, rescues and rehabilitates wild hedgehogs that are sick, injured or orphaned and releases them back into the wild when healthy, with the aim of increasing the population of hedgehogs in Chorley and Lancashire.

“We are always looking for support and donations from members of the public,” adds Janette. “Either by volunteering time on a regular basis, donating newspapers, old towels, dressing gowns and food or you can pay a donation direct to the two vets that we work closely with Adlington Veterinary Centre and Chorley Vets.

“We are a busy, thriving hospital providing critical and intensive care for hedgehogs,” adds Janette. “Through more education, my aim for the future is to provide a full training centre in Lancashire where people can find out more about hedgehogs and help protect these wonderful animals.”

If you find a hedgehog with a severe injury, take it straight to the vets or call your nearest centre for advice on what to do.

As well as Chorley Hedgehog Rescue there are other centres in the area in Leyland, Preston and Blackpool, check out their Facebook pages for further information. n

For more information on Chorley Hedgehog Rescue visit: www.chorleyhedgehogrescue.co.uk www.facebook.com/Leyland-Hedgehog-Rescue www.facebook.com/prestonhedgehog www.facebook.com/hedgehogrescueBlackpool

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Bygone Times, Grove Mill, The Green, Eccleston, Lancashire PR7 5TZ

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lifestyle

DAN’S 2020 VISION Is a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World on your must do list for this year?

I

f your vision for 2020 is to be more adventurous and also to do your bit to help others, then charity Rosemere Cancer Foundation has a plan to help you make the year your best yet.

This coming October, chief officer Dan Hill has booked to take a team of supporters from Preston to Peru for a 10-day expedition to the spectacular Incan citadel of Machu Picchu.

Set high in the Andes, it means trekking ancient forest and mountain paths to reach the 15th century fortified city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a 2007 worldwide Internet poll.

Dan, 37, is now looking to build his team for the trip of a lifetime. Dan said: “In 2018, Rosemere Cancer Foundation undertook its first ever supporter expedition to the Great Wall of China.

“We were a group of 16. We all funded ourselves but asked family, friends and work colleagues to sponsor us on our six-day adventure and so raised more than £30,000 to help fund projects benefitting local cancer patients.”

Dan continued: “I can honestly say we

had a fantastic time. A number of those from the China trip have already signed up for our Peru expedition. Ideally, I would like team Rosemere to be at least 20-strong for this longer expedition, which features on so many people’s dream destination lists.”

I WOULD LIKE TEAM ROSEMERE TO BE AT LEAST 20-STRONG FOR THIS LONGER EXPEDITION, WHICH FEATURES ON SO MANY PEOPLE’S DREAM DESTINATION LISTS Ahead of the trip, Dan has planned a series of training walks to help not only with fitness but also, bonding. These are scheduled for May, June, July and September, taking in the moorlands of Darwen and Tockholes, Pendle Hill, the Lakeland Fells and Arnside Knott.

The journey to Peru starts with coach travel to Heathrow for a flight to Cusco on 22nd October. All transport, hotel accommodation, meals on the trek, water, local guides, tour leader, UK doctor and camping equipment, excepting sleeping bags and mats, are included in the expedition’s cost, which is dependent on numbers but anticipated to be £2,395 - £2,595. The party returns to the UK on 31st October. n To sign up, call Dan on 01772 528346

Rosemere Cancer Foundation works to bring world class cancer treatments and services to cancer patients from throughout Lancashire and South Cumbria being treated at the region’s specialist cancer treatment centre, Rosemere Cancer Centre at the Royal Preston Hospital, and at another eight local hospital cancer units across the two counties.

The charity funds cutting edge equipment, research, training and other cancer services that are beyond limited NHS resources. For further information on its work, including how to make a donation, visit: www.rosemere.org.uk

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DIVORCE DAY… IS IT A MYTH? If you are thinking of divorcing it is vital to get specialist advice when making important decisions, especially with regards to the children, advises Judith Wright of Forbes solicitors

M

ost people will be aware from the newspapers, reporting every January, that there is now apparently a ‘Divorce Day’. This is usually on or around 7th or 8th January every year when the press reports that there will be a spike in solicitors receiving enquiries from couples who are unhappy in their marriage.

Sometimes the stress of trying to have the perfect Christmas, financial constraints or having relatives to stay, when perhaps there are already some cracks in the relationship, can often put added pressure on couples which results in more people making enquiries in relation to commencing divorce proceedings.

Support service, Amicable, reported in January 2019 that more than 40,500 people will type in an online search for ‘divorce’ in

January which is nearly 25 per cent higher than at any other time of the year.

The relationship charity Relate, also reports that they receive peak calls in January as often disagreements, arguments and stresses come to a head. I have also found over the years that New Year’s resolutions play a part, as of course, do office Christmas parties!

When contemplating separation or divorce, one of the main considerations for couples with children is how the separation will affect the children which is why couples often wait until after Christmas to formally separate.

It is important to try to reduce the impact of divorce and separation on the children, and agreeing arrangements is one of the main decisions to make. Consideration needs to be given as to where the children shall live, and how much time they spend with each parent.

Whatever the reasons for the divorce it is important that parents put the children first and consider their lives post-divorce too.

If an agreement is not reached, a solicitor can guide parents through the process, with practical legal advice. If an agreement cannot be reached, the parents can try to resolve their differences through mediation.

If mediation doesn’t work, then an application to court will be made, although there are some exceptions to this.

There will also be important decisions to be made regarding finances, housing and any business interests. Taking advice from a solicitor early in the process will help individuals know what their entitlement to the assets is likely to be. It is possible to reach an amicable agreement without having to go to court, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. If an agreement cannot be reached, again differences can try to be resolved through mediation, but ultimately an application to court needs to be made if no agreement is reached.

A key issue for some couples is who will live in the matrimonial home, and where the other party will live. Questions such as, ‘can I keep the house’, are often at the forefront of people’s minds. There may be other assets, pensions or inheritance monies to consider too.

Whatever the circumstances, separating and divorcing can be a stressful and difficult time for the family. Taking legal advice early and being guided through the process will ensure you receive a fair outcome and help to reduce the impact on any children. n

For more information please contact Judith Wright, specialist solicitor, call 01772 220022 or email: judith.wright@forbessolicitors.co.uk

FOR LIFE’S IMPORTANT EVENTS, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01772 220 022

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

lifestyle

Photography: Can Stock Photo Andrey Cherkasov

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KICK THE HABIT Christmas is over and many of us will have eaten and drunk to excess and want to get back to normality. January is the month when we kick start our healthy habits, starting with dry January

B

ut does giving up alcohol completely after over doing it in the festive season a good thing?

Dry January is a campaign run by Alcohol Change UK and it aims to encourage people to give up booze for 31 days. Each year millions participate either for personal reasons or for charity, with more than four million people planning to take part in January 2020.

A study by Dr Mehta, Senior Lecturer at the UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, suggests that in just one month of abstaining from alcohol, we could lose weight, see a decrease in blood pressure and improvement in diabetes risk of almost 30 per cent. There are also links with drinking to certain cancers, so cutting down can only be a good thing. So short

term there are some benefits. But what about long term?

IT MIGHT BE AN OPPORTUNITY TO LOOK AT YOUR DRINKING HABITS GENERALLY AND SEE IF YOU CAN CUT DOWN GOING FORWARD It might be an opportunity to look at your drinking habits generally and see if you can cut down going forward. If you drink to relax, why not look at other ways to wind down, such as taking up a new hobby, walking or joining a gym.

If you drink during the week, try reducing this by having a couple of alcohol-free nights and if you are on a night out

drinking, alternate your alcoholic drinks with a soft drink so you aren’t drinking as much.

However, if you’re a heavy drinker and want to cut down completely, always take the advice of your GP. It may not be good for your health to suddenly stop as this may cause withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe.

If you’re missing the taste of alcohol then there is now a bigger range of alcohol-free beers, wines and spirits. In fact, according to market research company CGA, sales of no and low alcohol have risen by 48 per cent and wine and spirits producers are far more aware of how health-conscious consumers are becoming. The demand for low and no alcoholic alternatives has led to the removal of alcohol without sacrificing the appeal of the drink. Vineyards continue to use similar processes when creating a low-alcohol bottle of wine, as they would alcoholic. The best quality grapes will be plucked, and producers will aim for characteristic of each grape to come through in the final taste.

While it’s difficult to evaluate the full benefits of Dry January, if you combine with taking up exercise and eating healthily, it will be a good start to 2020. n

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Christmas and New Year celebrations seem but a distant memory and a new decade is now in full swing

I

f your new year’s resolutions have already gone out of the window, or you simply couldn’t decide on any to make this year, 2020 could be the ideal time to review your Will and get your estate in order explains solicitor Ashley Marshall, the latest addition to the wills and probate team at Farleys.

Whether you are 29 or 89, when was the last time you reviewed your Will? Or perhaps you don’t yet have one? It’s understandable that sometimes writing and updating a Will can be the last thing on your mind, but now is the time to change that.

Think about what has happened in the last year, five or 10 years. Have you moved in with a partner? Got married?

Had children? Purchased property? Received an expensive item such as jewellery or artwork? All of these things may affect what is written in your Will or make a previous

NOW IS THE IDEAL TIME TO REVIEW YOUR WILL one invalid.Your original beneficiaries or executors may even have passed away or lost touch with you.

What should a Will include?

A Will should be fully tailored to you so there is no definitive answer to that question.

However, we advise clients to consider the following: Your assets – These include any property you own such as your home as well as its contents, vehicles, bank or building society savings, premium bonds, investments, life insurance, pension funds and items of significant monetary or sentimental value such as jewellery or antiques.

Your debts – Where possible, it is also useful to store a list of any debts you have such as a mortgage, other loans or credit cards. This information will be useful for those distributing your estate to beneficiaries.

Details of beneficiaries – You should include information about the people (or charities) you want to pass your assets to,

as well as provisions for if any of those beneficiaries should pass away before you.

Details of your executor – You should consider who you make the executor(s) of your Will very carefully. They are the people who will deal with all administrative matters following your passing. This role can therefore include a lot of work and responsibility.

Instructions for your funeral – Whether you have any particular wishes for your funeral or a plan to pay for it.

Name guardian(s) for your minor children – Include details of where they should live and who would have responsibility for them.

While all of this may look complicated, provided you seek expert legal advice, the process can often be completed quickly and hassle-free, allowing you to enjoy your time knowing that your wishes have been laid out and your family provided for in the event of your passing. n

To speak to a specialist in Wills, Trusts and Probate, get in touch with Farleys Solicitors on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com, or visit our website: www.farleys.com

lifestyle

Photography: Can Stock Photo Seqoya

Photography: Can Stock Photo Steve Allen

Photography: Can Stock Photo ZM_Photo

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TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2020 Photography: Can Stock Photo demerzel21

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f you are looking for somewhere different, then why not try Bhutan?

This piece of Himalayan paradise gives visitors the chance to explore the environment, mountain trails and natural beauty. It is unspoilt due to the high daily fee it charges visitors as it operates a strict high value low impact tourism policy.

However, if you are prepared to pay, then you can take advantage of the peace and quiet as it won’t be full of crowds.

North Macedonia is on the list this year.

It has everything from nature, dramatic peaks, amazing culture, ancient traditions and is a delight for foodies to visit.

Mediterranean influences have mixed with local specialities offering excellent culinary experiences for travellers. Located in the heart of the Balkans it is definitely a place which has lots to do for the traveller who is looking for adventure.

Sample the delights of Morocco. Whether you are looking for a beach or a city break, Morocco offers everything from rich heritage and colourful culture to beautiful beaches and wellness retreats.

Marrakesh will also be crowned Africa’s Capital of Culture in 2020 and has been awarded because of its architectural, artistic and cultural legacy. The country is improving its infrastructure and revamping a number of medinas and has seen the number of tourist visitors rise over the last couple of years.

Photography: Can Stock Photo Andy b1126

The Christmas break is over, and everyone is back to work.

Thoughts are already on where to go away this year to get us through the next few months.

So, what are the holiday hotspots of 2020?

Despite our weather, holidaying in England is definitely a must do. England has some of the most breathtaking coastlines to enjoy leisurely walks and stunning scenery. Dramatic skylines can be seen up in Northumberland. Take a trip to the historic island of Lindisfarne or visit the impressive Bamburgh Castle.

Head down to Yorkshire and Whitby and the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. Take in a ghost walk and hear about the history of the village. England wouldn’t be England without a cream tea. With quaint and picturesque villages in Devon and Cornwall, there’s never a shortage of tea rooms and beautiful beaches to boot.

Swaziland is packed full of culture, adventures and wildlife and is one of the most underrated places to visit. The country has invested in a new international airport and improved road infrastructure with the aim to increase visitors to the country over the next few years. With lots of adventures from zip lining, white water rafting to amazing safaris, this will be one place you’re sure never to forget.

Make 2020 the year to travel to extraordinary places, making unforgettable memories. n

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lifestyle

THE LAST WORD

First Class Holidays Offer

Tedd Walmsley reflects on a memorable trip to South Africa, where a stay in Franschhoek became the highlight of the holiday

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iz and I have recently returned from the holiday of a lifetime to celebrate our two significant birthdays in 2019. Our trip to South Africa fell into four distinct parts but none were more memorable than our time in Franschhoek – this stunning small town, which is recognised to be the wine and gourmet capital. Our home away from home for a three-night stay was The Last Word, situated in the very heart of the town, a small and intimate 10-bedroom boutique hotel which delivered on every level.

From check-in to check-out the service was first class. Described on their website as ‘kind and natural’ this describes the hotel perfectly – the team are discreet and always on hand to offer help and advice on local restaurants and the must-do’s whilst in town.

Our pool suite offered privacy and comfort – the room was incredibly spacious, it was tastefully furnished and incredibly comfortable. Just about everything at The Last Word is complimentary, drinks, snacks and even sweet treats left on the bed at turn-down made our stay very special.

Our days involved taking the famous wine tram to a host of wonderful wineries –

long days tasting famous wines alongside complementary canapes and cheeses. After a day of indulgence, we spent the last two hours of sunshine on the roof terrace catching up with home and enjoying the stunning scenery. It’s hard to put into words just how relaxed we felt and the team at The Last Word played no small part in helping us achieve this.

DISCOVER THE CAPE 12 Day Self-Drive Tour £3,129pp on 3rd May 2020 Explore three of South Africa’s most unique and picturesque regions.

Spend three full days in Cape Town before driving the short distance to the Cape winelands. Here you will explore the historic village of Franschhoek, exploring the many wineries in the region on the unique wine tram. Your final three nights are at Grootbos Private Reserve, home to the marine version of the ‘Big Five’.

Includes: Return flights to Cape Town with Ethiopian Airlines from Manchester Two nights in-flight

Nothing was too much trouble, our laundry returned within the day, restaurant reservations were confirmed and there was even a packed breakfast for our early morning trip to the airport. The attention to detail throughout our stay was second to none. Being situated in the centre of town means The Last Word is within easy walking distance of the beautiful shops and galleries along the main street, sitting alongside some of those great restaurants and cafes I mentioned earlier. The exchange rate at the moment makes South Africa truly great value for money so if you find yourself looking for a stunning small hotel with impeccable service – The Last Word really is the place to be. n

www.thelastword.co.za

10 days Group C car rental, Premium Package inclusions Four nights in Cape Town at the Cape Grace Hotel Two nights in Franschhoek at The Last Word Hotel Three nights at the Grootbos Forest Lodge Meet and greet on arrival in Cape Town Franschhoek Wine Tram Experience www.fcholidays.com

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weddings

PLAN A WEDDING IN EIGHT MONTHS For those lucky enough to have been proposed to over the festive period, what are the first things you need to do when planning your wedding?

A

ccording to James’ Places you can plan a wedding in just eight months. First book the venue.

This is the most important thing and the deal breaker which will dictate the date of the big day. Then book the registrar or church service.

Between six to eight months, choose your photographer, florist and cake maker.

Reserve suits, if you are hiring and start shopping for your wedding dress. At four to five months, send out your invitations and make appointments for your hair and makeup. If you want a DJ and/or a band

for the evening reception, book it now.

With two to three months to go, you should have done your final dress fitting and double checked your arrangements.

One to two months left and time to confirm numbers, think about a seating plan and buy presents for bridesmaids and best man.

With one week to go, delegate wedding day duties, check speeches and organise a run through or rehearsal with close family and friends.

And on the day, enjoy, knowing that everything has been taken care of.

Congratulations!

ON THE DAY, ENJOY, KNOWING THAT EVERYTHING HAS BEEN TAKEN CARE OF Once your big day is over, you can then look forward to your honeymoon. If you are choosing a holiday abroad, think about what the weather will be like when you go.

If your wedding is in the winter months and you are looking for winter sun, you may need to go long haul, which will add to the cost. For some countries it may also be the rainy season.

Some companies organise honeymoon packages, where you can get added extras to make your holiday extra special.

Whatever you choose, your wedding and honeymoon will be one to remember. n

...FOR A VENUE AS

AS YOU DESERVE

Crow Wood Hotel is the wedding setting of choice for 2020 and beyond The sleek and modernistic lines formed by this brand-new hotel give way to a sensational backdrop of Pendle Hill and the surrounding countryside.

The beautiful landscaped gardens which feature an impressive ornamental lake, will create a breathtaking background for wedding photography

Book your 2020 wedding now crowwoodhotel.com

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER While diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, they are unrivalled when set in an exclusive ring designed just for you

N

ew Year engagements are the most romantic occasions – that sparkling diamond ring on your finger marking a new and exciting chapter in your life together.

But where to choose a ring that is totally unique to you as a couple?

At Leonard Dews they have a bespoke service that lets you design your ring from scratch, choosing the loose stone, the cut, the clarity and weight along with a mount in yellow, white, rose gold or platinum.

“While we have always provided this service, having a bespoke ring made just for you has really taken off in the past couple of years, becoming much more popular,” explains diamond buyer, Jenna Szrieber.

“We have found there is an increasing number of couples wanting to choose their own diamond, which makes it particularly special.They want something a bit different.”

Working to your personal budget, Jenna and the team at Leonard Dews can advise

on each component of the ring.

“Often brides-to-be have a very clear vision of what they want and I think partners find it a really special experience to be able to put everything together to create the dream ring. There is a story behind each ring we sell – a bespoke piece is such a talking point.”

While the process may seem daunting, Leonard Dews know just how to bring your vision to life. One of the first things a couple will be asked when they visit

Leonard Dews is what shape of diamond they are looking for, and while brilliant is a classic option, emerald, princess and marquise are not far behind.

“It can be quite a difficult choice as a bride may have seen a shape that she has set her heart on and when she actually tries a similar ring on her finger it may not look how she imagined. We will always discuss what shapes they like giving them several options to try.”

Leonard Dews recently had a client who wanted a classic, oval shaped diamond: “She tried on the ring and, while she liked it, she didn’t love it!” recalls Jenna.

EACH ENGAGEMENT RING IS SPECIAL, THERE IS NO RULE BOOK, AND ANYTHING GOES “She really did have her heart set on an oval shape, so we went back to the drawing board and sourced a few diamonds for her to look at.

“This particular client wanted a large stone, but did have a budget to consider, so we needed to be mindful of the fact that the larger you go, the more she would have to compromise on colour, clarity and quality.

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This was something she wanted to avoid, so I suggested she tried on a marquise cut which is slightly more elongated, giving the illusion of a larger stone, and that’s what she went for – there were no compromises on quality and the ring really made an impact – it suited her perfectly!”

Jenna, who is highly experienced when advising clients on the cut, clarity, colour and carat of a diamond, adds: “With any budget, no matter how large or small, we always source the very best. In this particular instance we sourced a beautiful marquise stone that the customer fell in love with, to her original colour and clarity specification.

Leonard Dews sources all their loose diamonds from prestigious GIA and IGI certified UK-based suppliers: “We are able to get the very best quality to suit our clients’ style of ring and of course to suit their budget.”

While diamond solitaires set in white metals continue to be the classic choice for engagement rings, Leonard Dews have seen a marked increase in rose gold, three stone styles and coloured stone rings: “Not in the classic sense though,” says Jenna.

“They may be emerald cut with trapeze diamond shoulders, sapphire centre stones or vintage-looking halo rings.

“We have seen an increase in matching engagement rings for two ladies and even wide wedding bands set with diamonds for men’s engagement rings.”

Once a couple have chosen the engagement ring, the wedding band is the next choice and while Leonard Dews has a collection of beautiful rings in store, like the bespoke

engagement rings, the wedding bands can be exclusively made to order.

“For more unusual engagement rings, it can be tricky to sit a wedding band comfortably, so we take a mould of the ring and design a wedding band to fit perfectly next to it.”

All of the exclusively created rings have the prestigious LD Leonard Dews stamp and secret hidden diamond on the inside of the band – so the wearer knows that their particular ring has been made especially for them.

Thanks to the bespoke nature of each ring that Leonard Dews creates, brides-to-be can opt for almost anything, as Jenna concludes: “Each engagement ring is special, there is no

rule book, and anything goes. Each bride is different and that’s why we’re so lucky to do what we do.” n

Leonard Dews 18 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 207353 www.leonarddews.co.uk

The Inn at Whitewell is the perfect place to host a beautiful country wedding.

This quintessential old English inn, situated on Her Majesty the Queen’s estate in the stunning Forest of Bowland, offers magnificent views, seriously good local food and handpicked wines.

With unrivalled warmth and charm and a friendly, personable wedding team the Inn at Whitewell is the ultimate Lancashire wedding venue.

The Inn at Whitewell Forest of Bowland Nr Clitheroe BB7 3AT 01200 448222 www.innatwhitewell.com

WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE Why leave the venue of your perfect wedding to chance?

The Garstang Country Hotel is the place to be

Y

our choice of wedding venue is crucial. You need to be sure the location is stunning and that expert staff are on hand. Choose the Garstang Country Hotel and you can relax, knowing everything is taken care of.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, yet easily accessible, it is the perfect location for a wedding.

Set in award-winning gardens, there is no shortage of eye-catching backdrops for

those memorable wedding photos you will treasure for a lifetime. And the hotel is as elegant as its surroundings. With stone fireplaces, stylish chandeliers, a sweeping staircase, a newly refurbished reception area and a brand new bridal suite, in which you can end your dream day in style.

A choice of function suites, plus a purpose-built ceremony room, provide ideal settings for wedding parties of every size and the experienced team can help you plan your perfect party, whatever your budget.

WEDDING FAYRE Sunday 23rd February 2020 12pm – 4pm

Wedding packages are tailor-made to suit each couple’s wishes, making every wedding day unique. To complement this, they promise exclusivity – strictly one wedding per day – and the price quoted on booking is guaranteed to be held until the big day. The Garstang Country Hotel’s reputation for courteous service and fabulous food makes it quite simply the best choice. n

A N D WEDDING

VENUE

Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Centre Bowgreave Drive, Garstang PR3 1YE 01995 600100 www.garstanghotelandgolf.com

Winter Weddings N O V 2 0 2 0 - M A R 2 0 2 1 P A C K A G E S A V A I L A B L E F R O M

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weddings

THE D R E S S We take a look at the wedding gown trends that are likely to be popular in 2020

B

espoke embroidery is set to be the stand-out trend for 2020 wedding gowns and veils. We will see more and more of this as brides want a dress or veil that literally tells their story – a gown that is totally unique to them with special personal messages.

Designer Chiara Ferragni kickstarted the trend for embroidered wedding dresses when she married Italian singer Fedez.

She wore a custom Dior gown threaded with lyrics from his songs along with motifs inspired by the couple’s relationship.

Last year model Hailey Baldwin looked stunning in a cathedral length, Till Death Do Us Part embroidered statement veil.

In 2020, we’ll see the embroidery trend boom as couples find more unique ways to tell their personal fairytale. From romantic verses, a love note to your partner or your new initials discretely stitched into a veil or train, there are so many ways to wear this trend.

It’s an incredibly easy way to customise a boutique-bought dress and the embroidery can be anything that means something to you both. This embroidery can be done for

all to see or as a secret message hidden in the dress that only you two know about.

This year also sees the return of the

fairytale dress with brides opting for bigger ‘princess’ dresses teamed with cathedral length veils. While clean and simple lines remain popular, there will be less lace and hardly any strapless designs.

Last year Ellie Goulding set the trend wearing a Victorian-style high-neck wedding gown – a style still to be seen in. Dresses with ruffled collars, long sleeves and high necks – all the Victoriana and bourgeois trends from last year’s catwalks are filtering through and it is predicted that there will be an abundance of tulle in various shades.

Corsetry also remains an important factor for many brides who love to have their waist really defined.

WE’LL SEE THE EMBROIDERY TREND BOOM AS COUPLES FIND MORE UNIQUE WAYS TO TELL THEIR PERSONAL FAIRYTALE Having two wedding dresses has long been popular with society brides, who like to wear a second, evening wedding dress. This is a knock-on effect from royal weddings and high-profile celebrity brides. Another option here is to have a wedding dress that totally transforms for the evening to reveal a completely different look. This is often done by removing a top layer of tulle so the evening dress is barely recognisable as the original wedding gown worn earlier in the day.

Whatever style of dress you opt for, it will be unique to you so enjoy wearing it on a truly memorable day! n

W E D D I N G FA I R S Sunday 9th February 12-4pm

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Classic country inns to gorgeous stately homes and manor houses... and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion.

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OUTDOOR & S P R I N G COUNTRY

WEDDINGS These classic country collections from Barbour are perfect for every day

Skipton casual jacket £179, Neuston twill chinos £74.95

Left: Remus Uomo thee-piece suit £345 and Eton slim fit shirt £130 Nigel Clare 10-14 High Street Chorley PR7 1DN www.nigelclare.com Above: Condici shift style layered dress with matching jacket £POA Flamingo 67 Liverpool Road Penwortham PR1 9XD 01772 744277 www.flamingo-fashion.co.uk

Sophie lace Bardot maxi wedding dress £499 www.uk.monsoon.co.uk 18ct white gold open diamond set drop earrings £2550 Platinum diamond cluster Lily Pad ring at £17,500 Whittles 37 Fishergate Preston PR1 2AD 01772 252777 www.whittlesjewellers.co.uk

Imagine...

A MAGICAL PRIVATE WEDDING OR MINI MOON IN THE LAKE DISTRICT Enter through electric gates to discover Gilpin Lake House, set on a stunningly beautiful four-acre lake in 100 acres of private grounds. Fully serviced with Relais & Châteaux trained staff and Michelin starred chefs, our highly experienced and dedicated team look after each wedding from start to finish, balancing warmth and friendliness with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences in the beautiful Lakes. Whether it’s a winter or a summer wedding, or a luxurious mini moon, discover a beautifully private luxury hideaway.

love ◦ laughter ◦ happily ever after

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

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weddings

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BEST WEDDING VENUE! There are many reasons why couples choose

Samlesbury Hall is the most to have their wedding there: magical of wedding venues and, • Throughout the year this is the perfect venue, with great flexibility with regards not surprisingly, this historic to the number of guests, exclusive stately home recently picked hire of the hall, a choice of beautifully up a top award

T

here were celebrations all round when Samlesbury Hall won the Lancashire Tourism Best Wedding Venue Award.

“We were thrilled!” recalls Hall Director Sharon Jones. “We were just so happy as a big part of the hall is about weddings so it’s important to us to get recognition for what we do. It’s also great for our brides and grooms – they can say their wedding is at an award-winning venue!”

The magnificent black and white medieval building that is Samlesbury Hall is a truly enchanting venue, and perfect for the most important day of your life.

There is a dedicated team of experienced wedding co-ordinators who are always on hand to advise and help you on your way and they also have a list of recommended suppliers or you can use your own.

You can make your wedding whatever you want it to be at Samlesbury Hall as it offers an exclusive bespoke service, as well as all-inclusive packages.

SAMLESBURY HALL

WINNER OF THE LANCASHIRE TOURISM ‘BEST WEDDING VENUE’ AWARD!

prepared food, a hog roast in the evening, a pizza fired oven and a bridal suite in the Gatehouse complete with roll top bath and complimentary fizz.

• Guest accommodation – not just your average hotel room but a quirky collection of luxury shepherd’s huts within the grounds. The huts in the Hamlet are each fitted to the highest of standards, including your own wood burning stove.

• Come rain or shine, Samlesbury Hall is open all year round so weddings celebrations can take place inside the hall or within the beautiful grounds, both of which provide a great backdrop for photography.

• Having received Taste Lancashire’s Highest Quality Award, the hall only uses the best local produce from local artisans and from their own kitchen garden.

You choose your wedding menu and the chefs will cook it to perfection.

The hall is licensed for ceremonies in the Parlour, the historic Whittaker Room and the 700-year-old Great Hall.

If you would like to know more about weddings at Samlesbury Hall why not go along to the first Wedding Open Event of 2020 on 23rd January from 5pm-8pm or alternatively give the hall a call and arrange your very own private tour. n

SAMLESBURY HALL WEDDING OPEN EVENT 23rd January 2020 5pm-8pm Come and see the hall dressed for a wedding and meet our tried and trusted suppliers. The Hamlet will be open to view too, there will be food on arrival and the wood-fired pizza oven will be in operation.

Meet the experienced team of wedding co-ordinators to see what the hall has to offer and if you can’t make the Open Event call 01254 812010 to arrange a private tour.

Samlesbury Hall Preston New Road, Samlesbury, Preston PR5 0UP 01254 812010 enquiries@samlesburyhall.co.uk www.samlesburyhall.co.uk TM

9CT WHITE GOLD 0.12CT DIAMOND LOCKET £650 Whittles 37 Fishergate Preston PR1 2AD 01772 252777 www.whittlesjewellers.co.uk

SILK POCKET SQUARE £56 www.chiccheriabrand.com

BREITLING AVENGER 43MM STEEL GENTS WATCH £3090 www.whittlesjewellers.co.uk

PLATINUM FLORENTINE 0.61CT DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING £2950 www.whittlesjewellers.co.uk

DUNE LONDON MARION CRYSTAL BARELY THERE HEELED SANDAL £130 www.dunelondon.com

GIFTS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY Whether you’re buying something for your loved one or for that special couple, our gifts guide will give you ideas and inspiration DUNE LONDON ‘BONDS’ IVORY CRYSTAL AND PEARL HIGH HEEL BRIDAL COURT SHOE £140 www.dunelondon.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

TANGO EN SAN TELMO III

BY FABIAN PEREZ LIMITED EDITION PRINT £2150 Hepplestone Fine Art Ltd Heskin Shopping Village Wood Lane Heskin Chorley PR7 5PA 01257 451121 www.hepplestonefineart.com

EMMA BRIDGEWATER WEDDING MUGS £39.95 www.daisypark.co.uk

TREATY JEWELLERY BURNISHED SILVER NECKLACE £31.50 Owd Barn Spencers Farm Rufford Road Bispham Nr Ormskirk L40 3SA 01704 823435 www.owdbarn.com

DUNE LONDON BLESSING CLUTCH BAG £190 www.dunelondon.com

IRRESISTIBLE

VENI INFANTINO

JOHN CHARLES

CONDICI

ISPIRATO

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Fabulous hats, fascinators and accessories to complement your outfit.

Add the finishing touches with the perfect shoes and bag with our exclusive Italian bespoke shoe service.

Tel: 01772 744277 | www.flamingo-fashion.co.uk | 67 Liverpool Rd, Penwortham, Preston PR1 9XD

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AT N O R T H C OT E

Samantha Broadley Photography

Gourmet Weddings at Northcote The Louis Roederer Rooms at Northcote are the perfect venue for an unforgettable gourmet wedding experience.

The luxurious wedding suite is located on the ground floor of Northcote, a 26 bedroom hotel and Michelin-star restaurant situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley, Lancashire. A dedicated wedding co-ordinator will assist you with every last detail of your special day. From menu to dĂŠcor and seating plans to entertainment, every element, every flavour and every sip of champagne at your gourmet wedding experience is tailored specifically to your beautiful occasion.

Peter Anslow Photography

N O RT H COT E H O LDS A FULL WE DDING LICE NCE

AT N O R T H C OT E

Arrive in style through the exclusive Louis Roederer entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail bar or the champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy exquisite menus created by Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her team before finally retiring to one of the beautifully designed suites or bedrooms.

It’s the perfect solution for your special day. A gourmet experience in luxurious surroundings and an unforgettable wedding day.

There are three wedding packages or a bespoke option tailored to meet your exact needs can be designed. Each package includes; Champagne or Prosecco served with three styles of canapés on arrival, 4 or 6-course gourmet menu, wine from the Northcote cellars, mineral water, Champagne or Prosecco for the toast and service charges.

THE

PREMIER PACKAGE*

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£145 per person

£235 per person

MAXIMUM 60 COVERS

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MAXIMUM 60 COVERS

Prices may be subject to change.

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Telephone: 01254 240 555

www.northcote.com

events@northcote.com

* The Premier Package is only available Sunday to Thursdays.

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education

THE EARLY YEARS When you have a child, you want the best start for them in life and that means choosing a good nursery for them

Look around at the children to see if they are happy and settled and ask the staff how they monitor a child’s activity throughout

S

ending your child to nursery can be a hard thing to do and what time in their life you choose to do it, is up to you and your personal circumstances.You just need to be prepared for the change ahead.

As with a primary or secondary school, there are good nurseries and bad. Do some research and visit those local to you. If you are going back to work, you may find it easier to find one nearer to your workplace rather than at home so it’s more convenient for the drop off and pick up. Ask colleagues at work and friends for recommendations.

Visit the nurseries and get a feel for the place and ask as many questions as you can.

THE RIGHT NURSERY YOU WILL SEE YOUR CHILD FLOURISH, GROW AND DEVELOP the day, will it just be verbal, or will you get a daily written document? Do they get nap time, do they get to play outdoors and are there suitable potty-training policies in place?

What are their opening times, do they fit in with your work situation and do they open during the holidays or just term times?

A big question is cost. Sending your child to nursery can be expensive, so make sure that is factored into your decision.

What is the staff turnover like? If the staff have been in place for a while, it’s likely they are enjoying the job, but if you are seeing a different face every time you go, you need to ask why. Also is the number of staff per child ratio correct?

What is the policy if your child is ill? Some don’t let your child return for up to 48 hours after they have been ill which can have an impact if you need to take additional time off work.

These questions are just a guide.You will get a gut instinct about the place, but the main thing is to give your child a chance to settle in. Remember it will be a big change for them as well as you, but with the right nursery you will see your child flourish, grow and develop and at the end of the day, that’s all we want for our children. n

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provides stimulating and age appropriate surroundings for learning, structured play and personal development for children in their formative years.”

Further refurbishment will create enhanced new teaching spaces for the junior school’s four to seven-year olds, with state-of-the-art facilities and a new library and learning development room. They too will have their own outdoor area as well as access to the school’s own beach. Rossall’s Nursery and Junior School is a designated Beach School, officially recognised as using its coastal location as a resource for outdoor play and learning.

A further interactive and sensory play area is also being created for use by all pupils in the Nursery and Junior School (ages 4-11). This area is being designed by one of Rossall’s own Year 13 pupils,

OUTSTANDING FACILITIES ON YOUR DOORSTEP It’s another important year for this school by the sea, as the spotlight falls on its younger pupils who are looking forward to an impressive new building, writes Kate Ford

The improved nursery building, opening in September 2020, will have separate areas for babies, two-year olds and pre-school children, all of them light and airy with premium facilities and direct access to dedicated outdoor play areas and gardens.

T

he new year is always an exciting time at Rossall School, with pupils returning after their festive break full of stories and happy to reconnect with friends. There is always something to look forward to on campus, too, as this school is constantly developing its facilities to maintain its unique and vibrant learning environment.

In 2020, the spotlight is falling on the nursery and on the lower junior school which looks after pupils aged four to seven.

The nursery is set to move to a new, fully refurbished suite of rooms which, due to popular demand, will include its first baby room for children aged from three months to two years.

Rossall expects the new baby provision to be very popular with local families and is delighted to be participating in the government scheme to offer 30 hours of funded childcare to eligible parents.

“We have nine places in the baby room, but further places are available for two to four-year olds,” says Matt Turner, head of the nursery and junior school.

“This wonderfully spacious new facility

Kate Parkinson, as part of the product design and architecture course she is taking alongside her A level studies.

“Our vision is to be the outstanding nursery and junior school in the region, and our facilities are second to none,” says Matt Turner. “All our children have access to the beach, to our own petting farm and to the impressive sport and arts facilities on campus.

“We believe we are exceptionally well-equipped to deliver every possible opportunity for the children to thrive, develop and grow their potential, in a warm and supportive environment.” n

To find out more about the nursery, or register an interest in the new baby room, please visit the nursery pages of the school website

Rossall School Broadway, Fleetwood FY7 8JW 01253 774201 www.rossall.org.uk

government. It is essential however, that every practitioner takes a holistic approach to a child’s learning. They work with the parents to gain a good understanding of each child to progress them toward their learning and development goals, with the aim of having them ready for school.

For each skill that needs to be taught and developed our approaches consist of a blend of teaching styles.

“We have developed a self-organised learning environment where the children are co-constructors of their own education.

Their individual learning and development plans are delivered, utilising a host of approaches. These include focused adult led activities, which are planned daily to support children’s next steps in their learning. These are necessary as it is a time when the child’s key person can really focus and support that child’s next

LEADING THE WAY IN CHILDCARE Gillian Robinson of Netstar 9 Childcare talks to Helen Sanderson about preparing our children for school.

Photography: Roger Moore

N

etstar 9 Childcare is an award-winning company that has been leading the way in pre-school education and childcare in Lancashire since 2001. There are three individual nursery establishments across the county, Busy Bears in Preston, Summerfield, Lytham St Annes and School House, Blackburn.

Gillian Robinson is the area manager across the three sites and responsible for driving excellence. After showing me around and updating me on the fantastic facilities at Busy Bears, Preston she took time out of her day to tell me about the methods that are implemented at Netstar 9 Childcare to ensure our children flourish in preparation for school.

Gillian told me: “Our educational approach here at Netstar 9 is both childcentred and adult led. The child-centred approach allows children more freedom

to explore their own interests, making their own choices and express their own ideas. We provide a balance of planned and spontaneous learning, ensuring our environment supports children’s curiosity, interests and learning.

“We deliver the Early Years Foundation Curriculum which is set out by the

step, tailoring the activity to challenge the child further in their learning. The floor book approach allows shared thinking, recording children’s voices and ideas which is then used in our planning. The children will sit with the practitioners around a large paper book and they are encouraged to discuss topics relevant to them and make marks on the book. The

THE CHILD-CENTRED APPROACH ALLOWS CHILDREN MORE FREEDOM TO EXPLORE THEIR OWN INTERESTS, MAKING THEIR OWN CHOICES AND EXPRESS THEIR OWN IDEAS outputs of this type of learning creates the child led learning and spontaneous learning moments when a child engages in an activity which has sparked their curiosity and interest.”

The children’s environments are exciting and fully resourced to meet all their developmental needs and interests, spending time playing and learning. There are a range of age appropriate rooms, both indoor and outdoor facilities, which have mud kitchens and sand and water areas. Beach school is

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provided, mainly in the spring and summer terms, with Forest School facilities provided each day, where children are encouraged to learn about their environment whilst they play, get wet, muddy and learn.

Boosting the already very experienced team, Netstar 9 nurseries has recently brought on board another qualified primary teacher with Early Years Practitioner Status who is also qualified as a Forest School lead. She explained the importance of Forest School to me.

WE ENSURE OUR CHILDREN ARE SCHOOL READY, SO WHEN THEY ATTEND ON THEIR FIRST DAY, THEY ARE INDEPENDENT CONFIDENT LEARNERS

Photography: SusieQ.co.uk

Photography: InkiPinkiCreative.co.uk

“In today’s society most children face way too much stimulus, from TV, advertising, electronics and even toys that flash or make sounds. Forest School is not a new concept, it really is back to basics. Children are being encouraged to get outside and learn about the environment first-hand, letting their little imaginations run free, problem solving, making dens, chopping wood, hiding in trees and understanding nature.”

Gillian concluded: “Together with our local feeder schools, we ensure our children are school ready, so when they attend on their first day, they are independent confident learners.”

It’s clear to me as a mum, with junior school age children, that the childcare provided by Netstar 9 is full and varied.

It provides all children with a first-class education that is closely attuned to their individual needs and is delivered in an environment where everyone can succeed. n

Netstar9 Childcare 2a Manor House Lane Preston PR1 6HL 01772 795286 www.netstar9-childcare.co.uk

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education including an outdoor role play village, kitchen gardens, a crafts workshop and adventure playgrounds. Each has at least one member of staff trained in forest school education.

To equip children for the next stage, whether its own school in Hutton or other local schools, Ashbridge encourages

NEXT DOOR TO NATURE independence. “They eat freshly cooked meals

Outdoor learning helps pre-school children to flourish at Ashbridge. together every day and are encouraged Stephanie Sparrow reports to create their own games and challenges,”

N

ot all classrooms have walls – the outdoors can be a stimulating learning environment too.

This is the ethos of Ashbridge Independent School and Nursery, which has four pre-schools in the Preston area. All classes are run by qualified early years teachers and provide extended opportunities, while fulfilling the Early Years Foundation Stage.

“Learning outdoors is a large part of what we do,” says Ashbridge director of compliance Charlotte Bingham Brindle.

All the pre-schools are next door to

nature, from the woodlands at Lindle Lane and Maxy Farm, to the grounds of Fledglings at Myerscough College. Meanwhile, the

LEARNING OUTDOORS IS A LARGE PART OF WHAT WE DO waterside setting of Ashbridge on Ribble nursery has inspired an innovative River School – a suite of learning areas based around a full-size boat, mounted on dry land.

They access a wide range of facilities

says Charlotte.

“Our provision of outdoor education, gardening and extended time outdoors goes beyond the normal pre-school environment,” she says. “We not only prepare children for school but for the wider world.” n

Ashbridge Independent School and Nursery Lindle Lane, Hutton, Preston PR4 4AQ 01772 619900 nursery@ashbridgeschool.co.uk www.ashbridgeschool.co.uk

ST MARY’S COLLEGE, BLACKBURN.

“Governors, leaders, managers and staff have created an aspirational culture, providing a high quality education which supports students to fulfil their potential.”

APPLY ONLINE NOW www.stmarysblackburn.ac.uk

St Mary’s College Shear Brow, Blackburn, BB1 8DX Tel: 01254 580464

FOLLOW US ON

STONYHURST

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The uk’s leading co-educational catholic boarding and day school for 3 - 18 year olds

2020/21 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN Making a Stonyhurst Education Affordable

Find out more about Stonyhurst’s Scholarships, Awards and Bursaries at 11+, 13+ and 16+ entry by visiting www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/scholarships or contact our Admissions team.

Stonyhurst • Clitheroe • Lancashire • BB7 9PZ Email: admissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk Tel: 01254 827073

www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/scholarships

EDUCATIONN E W S AUTHOR VISITS SCHOOL COUNTY CHAMPIONS ANNUAL PRIZE GIVING Children’s author and illustrator Debi Gliori visited Westholme School recently. She is the creator of many wonderful books, the ‘Mr Bear’ series, ‘No Matter What’, ‘The Trouble with Dragons’ and ‘Stormy Weather’. She talked to Reception, Year 1 and 2 about her new book, ‘The Bookworm’, about Max, a young boy who is desperate to be allowed to have a pet.

Stonyhurst College’s First Team became County Champions at U19 netball recently, coming out victorious against tough rivals Clitheroe Royal Grammar School and Newman College. The team put their hearts and souls into each match, giving their very best and were rewarded with an outstanding result. An unbeaten tournament sees the Stonyhurst girls through as winners who now go on to represent Lancashire in the regional round in January.

November 2019 saw the academic, sporting, dramatic and other achievements of past and present Oakhill pupils being celebrated at their annual prize giving ceremony. As they celebrated this year’s excellent GCSE results, head boy, Sam and head girl, Phoebe, impressed everyone with the conviction and confidence in their speeches. Guest speaker was past head boy, James Rawlinson who entertained with a video and speech and who tirelessly handed out the prizes.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Highfield Priory School enjoys a long reputation of academic excellence. This is the ninth year running in the top 30 of The Sunday Times Top 100 Independent Preparatory Schools in England and its second year in the top 10. Highfield Priory School is currently sixth in England and first in the north west as of November 2019. Congratulations to all pupils and staff.

DUKE OF EDINBURGH SHORTLIST AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR Outstanding former students from Burnley NATIONAL BOOK College Sixth Form Centre headed to Buckingham Palace, London, to receive their COMPETITION prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards which they earned during their time at college.

All students were involved in volunteering projects, with some working in charity shops and others raising vital funds for the college’s chosen charity, Oliver’s Neuroblastoma Appeal.

They also took part in weekly fitness sessions, playing sport or visiting the gym, and attended drill sessions where they learnt how to march.

UCLan Publishing has unveiled the 25 authors who have been shortlisted for The STEAM Children’s Book Prize 2020. Now in its second year, this is the first prize to concentrate solely on STEAM in children’s books and covers all ages from early years to young adults, as well as all genres and subject matters. The winners will be announced at the Lancashire Science Festival in June 2020.

ENGAGE WITH PROFESSIONALS Students at Nelson and Colne College relished the opportunity to engage with industry professionals during a career focused A Level Conference Day. All year one and year two A Level students attended sessions spanning A Level curriculum areas including Art and Design, Business, Humanities and Languages, Health, Social Sciences, Maths, Computer Science and the Sciences. Pastoral sessions were laid on for students, including social media, mental health and creating a personal statement for university applications.

St. Martin’s Prep School, Grimsby Newbridge Prep School, Wolverhampton Guildford High Junior School Reddiford School, Greater London Seaton House School, South London

Highfield Priory School, Preston The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ Prep School, Elstree Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ Junior School, Elstree Ghyll Royd School and Pre-School, Ilkley Royal Grammar Junior School, Newcastle

Find out why Preston’s School is one of the Highfield Pri Find out Highfield whyPriory Preston’s top performing schools in the country by visiting our website,in the countr top performing schools reading our latest Early Years and School ISI Inspection Report, reading our latest Early Years and Sc 2019, or by seeing the school action.

2019, or byinseeing the school in actio

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education

UNITING THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

to drive directly onto site and safely drop them off in a dedicated parking zone.

Interim stage

There will need to be an interim move for the children as it is estimated the conversion will take the majority of a year. Over the summer of 2020, and ready for the new academic year in September, all the infants from Pre School to Year 2 will move onto the school’s Junior site.

Senior School

Westholme School unveils plans to unite and consolidate on one single site bringing the whole of the school community together

A

s Westholme approaches its centenary year, there has been constant evolution and refinement of the school’s educational offer. What has remained constant, however, is a commitment to deliver the very best possible outcome for every child in Westholme’s care.

The ethos today is precisely the same as it was in 1923 when Emily Singleton began teaching a handful of local pupils, and Westholme still puts the children at the centre of all they do.

Whilst the Infant and Junior sites at Billinge House and Beardwood Bank have played an acknowledged and important role in the school’s history, Westholme

strongly believes that the children will genuinely benefit from being in one place, consolidating not only a vision of one school community, but also that of Mr Arthur Rouse, who opened the Senior School at Wilmar Lodge in 1968 and whose stated aim was always to bring the whole school together as one.

Westholme’s next planned development is to relocate all pupils, from Pre School through to Sixth Form onto one site based at Wilmar Lodge.

By September 2021, Westholme will have all primary phased pupils from Pre School to Year 6 housed in a self-contained building at Senior School. Planning permission has been submitted to convert and extend the current art and music buildings.

The project combines both new build and conversion of existing buildings, allowing the school to maintain some historic features while creating a modern, dynamic learning environment for all children.This development will be a direct result of significant investment to ensure children will have their own learning resources and individual playground with dedicated access points and parking.

Parents with Infant children will be able

The Senior School building, Wilmar Lodge, will need to be well prepared for the arrival of the youngest members of the school’s community.

Westholme plans to form a creative hub in the Rouse Building, bringing together the disciplines of art, photography, food and nutrition, textiles and product design

by September 2021. Similarly, for music, a refurbished zone in the lower ground floor of the Sixth Form Centre will house practice rooms and teaching spaces.

It is also intended to extend the school’s sporting provision – Westholme recognises that there is a need for more suitable space and facilities in this important area of the educational offering.

A full parking rearrangement and development plan has also been put into place to ensure parking is maximised across the whole estate, with safe entry and exit points for pedestrians and vehicles.

In a rapidly changing environment, providing a sustainable future for Westholme is key to success. Westholme 2021 is the next phase of the school’s continuous development. n

Westholme School Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road, Blackburn BB2 6QU 01254 506070 www.westholmeschool.com

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COME AND VISIT US FOR OUR RECEPTION OPEN AFTERNOON

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PRIVATE SCHOOL, NURSERY & SIXTH FORM

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.

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2020 ADMISSION DATES Pre-School Taster Day for Reception 2020 | 22nd January Sixth Form Taster Day for entry in 2020 | 31st January Senior School Open Evening | 4th March Prep School Open Afternoon | 23rd April Year 5 Taster Day for Year 7 entry in 2021 | 17th June Interviews for Sixth Form entry take place from January FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

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ACADEMIC AMBITION | INDIVIDUAL PATHWAYS | SUCCESS AND VALUE

98

education

NEXT STEPS… Choosing the right college or sixth form can be daunting but there are lots of choices and opportunities to help you find the right path

C

ontinuing your education post 16 gives you a variety of options.

There are a range of subjects, courses and pathways available which can help you reach your career goals, so it’s important to research what’s right for you. That may be completing A Levels and staying on at your school after GCSEs or attending a further education college that has sixth form provision.

While A Levels are the popular academic route for those who wish to complete a degree at university, many colleges offer vocational and technical qualifications too which are being recognised more and more by higher education institutions.

Teaching in colleges is often led by industry-qualified lecturers using facilities

and equipment similar to that found in the workplace. Colleges are without doubt inspirational places to learn where the education and training is delivered by expert teaching staff in industry-standard facilities.

MANY COLLEGES OFFER VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS TOO WHICH ARE BEING RECOGNISED MORE AND MORE BY HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS Sixth forms and colleges work closely with local employers and consider the local employment needs when designing their curriculum. This helps to ensure students have access to important work experience to enhance and develop their learning – as well as assuring that they study qualifications which will provide the skills to support local business needs.

Post 16 education teaches other skills alongside the core qualification, such as important attributes that are crucial in the

workplace, including teamwork, leadership and negotiation skills, along with working under pressure and to deadlines.

Higher Education in colleges is often more likely to focus on ‘short cycle’, providing foundation degrees and Higher National Diplomas and/or Certificates giving students wider options, as well as full Honours degrees. Studying locally in a college helps students financially as it means they can often live at home – the programmes can be better managed around family life for more mature students and the fees are usually lower than bigger universities.

Some colleges and sixth forms also offer the International Baccalaureate qualification which is enjoying a high level of respect and recognition among the world’s higher education institutions. This programme of study also prepares students well for university and life beyond.

Colleges and sixth forms really do open up lots of opportunities for whatever stage you’re at, and wherever you want to go – both are great places to start your career journey! n

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H

is father’s job with a large US company meant that Mark Leech enjoyed a peripatetic childhood with his parents and two sisters.

Born in Belgium in 1979, he spent his early years in the famous battle town of Waterloo, before moving back to the UK for several years. Returning to Belgium as a teenager, he completed the International Baccalaureate at the age of 18 and decided to head back to the UK alone in 1998 to go to university.

That sounds like a brave move. “It didn’t feel particularly brave at the time,” says Mark. “I’d always wanted to attend university in the UK, so it just made sense.”

Wider family connections drew Mark to Lancashire, but it was his interest in golf which sealed the deal. His father introduced him to the sport at a very early age and his fascination has never diminished. “The simple fact that Myerscough College ran a degree in Golf Management heightened my interest in studying there,” he says.

In the end, he opted for a degree in Leisure and Sports Management delivered first at Myerscough and then at UCLan in Preston. Living in student digs, Mark sought out part-time work and applied for a bar job at Ribby Hall Village. “The interview went so well that I went home to Preston, got changed, then went straight back to Ribby to start work!”

THROUGHOUT MY TIME HERE, I’VE BEEN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP AND TO SHARE MY OWN IDEAS ABOUT THE BUSINESS

A love of golf was one of the things that brought Mark Leech to Lancashire. A long, successful and challenging career is what kept him here writes Kate Ford

That first job in 1999 was in Beaumont’s Bar (now Harrison’s Bar), but Mark soon found himself also working in the bistro and with various activities, including golf, boating and bike hire. He even passed his lifeguard course, enabling him to help in the family pool of The Health Club.

Before long, his family moved again, this time to Michigan in the US. No longer going home in the university holidays, Mark threw himself into work and, by the time he graduated in 2002, he was a mainstay of The Health Club, becoming a duty manager three years later. In 2008, he was appointed general manager and was instrumental in bringing Starbucks to The Health Club in 2009. Mark became a senior manager in 2011, a role which saw a widening of his remit to include the Tea Room and The Village’s SPAR supermarket.

Then in 2018, 19 years after starting

business

that first bar job, Mark was promoted to director of operations, with responsibility for overseeing significant swathes of the Ribby Hall Village business. Reporting directly to CEO Paul Harrison, Mark is responsible for a team of around 350 members of Ribby’s 613 staff.

“Throughout my time here, I’ve been given opportunities to develop and to share my own ideas about the business,” says Mark. “This makes you feel empowered and trusted and helps you to grow in ability as well as confidence. I really hope this continues and that I can empower others in the same way.

“What makes this place special is that the owners continue to invest in the business, year on year, so there’s always a new challenge ahead,” says Mark. “It’s a fantastic place to work and we’re always on the lookout for talented new members to join the team.”

The first such challenge is the launch this

month of a new coffee shop, Blend, based where Starbucks used to be in The Health Club. When the famous coffee brand decided to withdraw its franchise, as part of a global restructure, the senior team at Ribby saw an exciting opportunity.

WHAT MAKES THIS PLACE SPECIAL IS THAT THE OWNERS CONTINUE TO INVEST IN THE BUSINESS, YEAR ON YEAR “Obviously, we were sorry to see Starbucks go,” says Mark. “But, with all our expertise in operating successful food and drink outlets, we knew we could create something just as good, if not better. And that’s what we’re going to do.

“We’re also starting work on a new family adventure golf course near our Terrazza restaurant, with a new outdoor bar on the restaurant terrace, creating a

101

fabulous new family attraction which is set to open by June 2020.”

Like most of the operations Mark oversees, the coffee shop and golf course are local amenities, open to everyone who lives and works nearby. “It’s really important to us that people in the area know our facilities are available for them to use and enjoy,” he says.

Mark has a son and two stepdaughters with his partner Claire, and they live in Kirkham. Away from work, he enjoys family time and playing golf at St Annes Old Links. He helps to organise charity golf days with friends and colleagues from Ribby, to raise funds for the Pear Tree Holiday Club, a school holiday playscheme linked to Pear Tree School in Kirkham. The club provides inclusive childcare for children with learning difficulties and special educational needs, alongside mainstream children from the local community. n

BUSINESS MATTERS

tbc lifestyle 102 business

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the thriving Preston and Fylde areas, where business always matters If you have any Business Matters news items contact: tracy.hargreaves@live-magazines.co.uk

AWARD WIN The Baxter Group has been awarded Construction Business of the Year at the Wyre Business Awards 2019. This fantastic accolade completes an impressive year for the Baxter Group, which has taken on its largest development to date at Garstang Golf Club. Ian Baxter, group chairman said: “We are truly delighted to have won such a prestigious award in a very competitive category.”

OUTDOOR PLAY FOR PUPILS WITH COMPLEX NEEDS A Cambridgeshire school, which provides specialist educational support for children with complex physical and mental needs, has benefitted from the generosity of a Preston-based businessman.

Jon Price is head of marketing at Complete Care Shop, which offers over 3,500 disability, mobility, therapeutic and daily living aid products online. He became co-director of Preston-based Complete Care Shop in 2011.

Jon has supplied 30 bright, colourful bespoke wheelchair ponchos from its online range.

APPRENTICES WIN MEDALS After excelling in the National Qualifiers which took place in the summer, BAE Systems Air apprentices Abigail Stansfield from Clitheroe and Jake Room from Preston, have been named among the best apprentices in the The WorldSkills UK Finals. Abigail took home Bronze in CNC Milling and Jake Silver in CNC Turning. The WorldSkills UK Finals was hosted at the Birmingham NEC.

CRICKET CLUB STRIKES UP RELATIONSHIP Redrow Homes and Fylde Cricket Club have become good neighbours. Since starting work on homes in Poulton-le-Fylde over three years ago, the housebuilder has provided £5,000 to the club, which plays on the pitches next door. Redrow works hard to engage with the communities in which it builds. The cricket club, located on Moorland Road, is home to both senior and junior teams and has over 100 members that range in age from nine to 70 years.

EMERGING TALENT Warton based engineer at BAE systems, April Wiles, has picked up the Emerging Talent Award at the annual Women in Defence Awards.

The award recognises individuals who act as role models for engineering and for this April was a shining example.

The nomination described April’s outstanding contribution to the company’s Challenger 2 tank ‘Black Night’ upgrade vehicle programme.

In June this year, April, 26, moved across to the Air sector in June and works as an aerodynamicist.

NEW ADVENTURE FOR ENTREPRENEURS Lancashire go-getters Ian and Lorraine Kearney have launched an exciting, innovative and ambitious new business venture which will help with the regeneration of Chorley town centre.

‘Escape’ Entertainment Venue will feature top quality leisure and entertainment. Located within a brand-new complex in Union Street, Chorley. On offer will be ten pin bowling, the ‘Gator Golf Adventure and Oasis Bar and Restaurant with a traditional pizza oven. The venue opened late December.

business

103

CHILD ARRANGEMENTS – IS EVERYONE HAPPY? So, you survived Christmas.

How did the arrangements for seeing the children go over the festive season? If you are a separated parent, it can be a very difficult and emotional time of year

H

ow often did you see your children? Did they come and go as they pleased between the two families? Or was it a constant battle to get to see them at all?

In my experience every family has a different arrangement regarding Christmas and every family thinks that their arrangement is normal. There is clearly no normal with regards to when you see your children over the holidays.

The courts like to see parents being amicable and fair with each other. If the court has to decide the arrangements, they often order Christmas Eve with one parent overnight to Christmas Day on alternate years, with the other parent having Christmas Day evening to Boxing Day. This is fair and works well, provided the parents live in close proximity to each other.

The rest of the holidays are usually split with a few days, or even a week with each

parent. This can involve much to-ing and fro-ing between households but does ensure that everyone in the wider family gets to see the children. School holidays are often split equally between the parents.

If you have a dispute with your ex about how much time the children should spend with each of you, whether this is at Christmas or any other time of year,the first thing to do is to try to talk about it.

If you cannot, then you may wish to instruct a solicitor for independent advice. A specialist family solicitor can advise you as to what is reasonable and fair. They will also look at what is in the best interests of the children as this is always the courts paramount consideration.

If no agreement can be reached through solicitors, or even before you appoint a solicitor, you may wish to consider going to mediation to resolve the children arrangements. A party must refer their case to mediation before court proceedings are issued. Court proceedings should be issued only as a last resort. The courts are only concerned with what is in the best interests of the children.

The advice is always to make your arrangements for the children as far in advance as possible and be fair and reasonable with the other parent. Children pick up on animosity between parents and arguments

in front of children should obviously always be avoided.

If you are in any doubt about sorting out your arrangements for the summer or even for next Christmas, I strongly suggest that you speak to a specialist family solicitor as soon as possible.

Don’t leave it until it is too late. Seize the day so that next Christmas is better for the whole family. n Helen Lucking is a partner and head of family and divorce at regional law firm Napthens www.napthens.co.uk

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104

business

IN THE MONEY The new year is always a good time to check your finances, look up the latest energy deals and review those savings

I

t’s important to keep on top of your money. New rates and deals come onto the market all the time and whilst it might seem time consuming changing your accounts, in the long run it could save you hundreds of pounds.

Ask yourself these questions. Does your monthly budget work out OK, how are your outgoings compared to your income?

Do you know what you owe and what it’s costing every month, ie mortgage, credit cards, personal loans. Energy bills at this time of year inevitably go up, have you allowed for this in your budget.

How much are you spending on food each week. By swapping branded products to own label you could save a lot of money on your weekly shop. Try making more of

your meals as ready meals all add up, so does that over-priced coffee you buy on your way into work.

THE BEST THING TO DO IS TO REGULARLY PUT ASIDE SOME MONEY TO START TO BUILD UP AN EMERGENCY SAVINGS FUND Is your income reliable? Don’t rely on regular overtime, you never know when this will stop and you could end up spending above your means.

If you have savings or investments, are they making money? It might be time to swap them or look at alternatives such as premium bonds.

If you need to borrow money, look at all the options. Interest rates can be really high, ask family if they can help out.

Do you have a contingency budget for when things go wrong? Car repairs, vet bills, emergency home repairs, all these can affect anyone at any time, so it’s never too soon to get prepared for them.

The best thing to do is to regularly put aside some money to start to build up an emergency savings fund, even a small amount can help.

Try to use a budget planner, there are several websites or apps that can help you or find a financial advisor.

If you are struggling with money, always talk to someone about it. Never feel pressured into buying something you can’t afford. There’s nothing to be ashamed of in asking for help. A friend or a family member might be able to come up with solutions that you haven’t thought about.

Whilst many people’s motto is ‘you only live once’, if you are money savvy then you can still enjoy the good things in life. n

business

105

THE ONLY CERTAINTIES IN LIFE ARE DEATH AND TAXES Let’s face it, nobody really wants to talk about death, but would it be a weight off your mind knowing your affairs are in order for your loved ones in the (hopefully far distant) future?

W

e interviewed Martin Garry from McDade Roberts Accountants to find out how its new sister company, MR Probate Ltd could help our readers achieve this peace of mind.

McDade Roberts Accountants is extremely proud of the trust it builds during relationships with its clients, so Martin explained how he was pleased to be able to offer a new service to help clients through the otherwise daunting and stressful process of probate.

Martin said: “We have a sister company, MR Probate Ltd, to help anyone through the wills and probate process. This was a natural addition to our main accountancy services and we believe it will be a very valuable service for our clients.

“The first question people ask me is ‘what is probate’? Probate is the process of obtaining a grant of representation by a deceased individual’s executors so that they can administer the estate and deal with the affairs of the deceased. It can be a complicated process that adds stress at an already difficult time. It may sound confusing, but that is why we are here to help.

“We know that it is important to our clients to ensure that the estate that they have worked hard to build up is passed onto their loved ones as smoothly as possible and also in the most tax efficient way.

“Our new Wills and Probate Service has been designed to assist with: 1. Making sure that your Will is kept up to date and reflects your current circumstances and wishes 2. Helping you to minimise Inheritance tax liabilities 3. Assisting with the administration of your estate to ensure that the terms of the Will are carried out and reducing the administrative burden on your family.”

We then asked Martin why our readers should choose MR Probate and he became passionate about why they can help.

Martin answered: “Why choose MR Probate Ltd? Well, in simple terms, because we care about all our clients and we want to make their financial affairs as stress free as possible for them. Our team treat every client as an individual whether they are coming to see us for a simple Will, or for a complicated inheritance tax planning case. There is a clear tie in between services that we provide such as Inheritance Tax planning and submission of the returns to HMRC

and filing for the grant of probate so the process can now be seamlessly brought together by dealing with one set of friendly advisors rather than numerous companies.

“We appreciate the pressures on the bereaved at such a time of loss and grief and aim to relieve the stress of dealing with probate for you, whether that is by helping your readers set up a Will now, or by helping families when they need us most.

“If any readers would like a confidential chat on Wills or probate, please don’t hesitate to call us on 01772 717110 and ask to speak to me directly.” n For more information on MR Probate and McDade Roberts please visit: www.mcdaderoberts.co.uk

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THE X6.

TAKE CENTRE STAGE

E

ven the way they look just limbering up, that sublime mix of awesome power, supreme confidence and outstanding energy. It’s as though the rest of the field are simply competing for runnerup spot. Hold those thoughts.

If ever a motor car suited a record-breaking athlete, then that motor car is the BMW X6.

It’s a beast, a fearless performer with attitude, aggression and style. A winner. But it’s not just about the turbo-charge, hugely impressive though that might be, it’s also about the look, the spectacle, the intensity, the performance.

Let’s start with the power.

All the SUV models are available with a 3-litre (or a 4.4-litre),

Think elite athletes of every field and discipline.

Stand-out performers who always expect to stand highest on the podium when the medals are being handed out, writes Paul Agnew.

Photography: Roger Moore

all-wheel drive and rear wheel drive with transmissions including 8-speed shiftable automatic.

High-performance models, such as the xDrive30d and xDrive40i (the one I sampled), give you exactly what you might expect from a car of this calibre. And that adds up to an awful lot.

IT’S A BEAST, A FEARLESS PERFORMER WITH ATTITUDE, AGGRESSION AND STYLE But if you want more, the 3-litre six-cylinder, twin power, turbo M50d offers 760Nm of torque and goes from 0-62mph in only 5.2 seconds.

Still not enough? Then try

motors

107

the 4.4L V8 M50i. Without breaking sweat, it delivers 530hp, 750Nm of torque and reaches 62mph in just 4.3 seconds.

Incredible.

The BMW X6 is a real blast of a drive and you are always able to shift between comfort, eco and sport modes as and when the fancy takes you.

THE BMW X6 IS A REAL BLAST OF A DRIVE Externally, the expressive contours and an elegant sweeping coupé roofline afford a commanding aura. Positioned as BMW’s jewel in the crown of sports activity coupés, it boasts athletic confidence in every detail. Adding to this bravado are a selection of provocative elements, a new, iconic Glow Kidney Grille, which simply dazzles, unique Manhattan paint trim, powerful hexagonal arches, refined trapezoidal tailpipes, lightweight 22” alloys, the list goes on.

Find optional equipment like a Sky Lounge panoramic sunroof, acoustic glazing and a massage (yes, massage not message!) function which improves the physical wellbeing of driver and front passenger by stimulating or relaxing certain muscle groups.

Also inside, exclusive design details include the CraftedClarity glass applications with the gear selector, volume control, iDrive controller and startstop button made of polished glass. Oh, and there are sports seats, ambient light, head-up front window display and a leather dashboard.

At the heart of the BMW X6 driving experience is the intuitive Operating System 7.0, not only more connected but also more personal. This is matched with the latest BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which comes with a 12.3” touchscreen information display and the largest fully digital instrument

cluster. They have even remembered a memory function that allows you to upload your previous settings.

Listen to your favourite

tracks as the Connected Music function lets you directly stream millions of songs courtesy of BMW’s music partners Deezer, Napster and Spotify using the

SIM card installed. Rear seat passengers are well catered for too with a couple of tilting high-definition touch screens and options for smartphones, tablets, headphones and so on.

Talking of smartphones, a digital key even means you can get in and get going via your mobile, to save taking a physical key along for the ride.

Safe as houses (including a reactive emergency call system), plenty of storage space and a couple of new external metallic colours just to tempt you even further. Particularly eye-catching is Riverside Blue.

The BMW X6 provides a perfect mix of excitement, strength, power, comfort, ergonomics and luxury. A true athlete and a truly exceptional car. n Bowker Preston BMW Channel Way Preston PR2 2YA 01772 769976 www.bowkerprestonbmw.co.uk

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2018 - Land Rover Sport V8 SVR 9,197 MILES

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COUCH TO COURT

I

n 1926 an inaugural meeting in London forms the All England Net Ball Association and in 1932 the first inter-county tournament was held, with Essex emerging as the first county champions. Over the years the sport has grown and is now played in countries all over the world, albeit predominately Commonwealth countries, including Australia, Jamaica, South Africa and New Zealand. The sport has yet to make it into the Olympics, mainly down to this fact.

The International Olympic Committee first approved netball as an Olympic sport in 1995, but it has still not been played at any Olympic Games since then.

However, there are several reasons why it should be considered: it is played by 20 million people worldwide, it’s played in more than 80 countries across five

The game of netball has been around for years. It was thought to have been invented in America in the 1800s, but back then was called Basketball. Over time the baskets were replaced with rings and nets and is now called Netball continents and is easy to play at grassroots level and accessible as well as not requiring expensive equipment or facilities.

THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING INCLUDE LOSING WEIGHT, IMPROVING MUSCLE TONE AND BEING PART OF A TEAM It’s a sport you may remember playing at school, however now there is a push to encourage women to recognise the benefits

of playing, including losing weight, improving muscle tone and being part of a team, by getting Back to Netball.

Running across England since 2010, more than 60,000 women have taken part in Back to Netball. Sessions provide women, 16+, with a gentle re-introduction by enthusiastic coaches and incorporate the basics of the game including passing, footwork and shooting, all finished with a friendly game.

Couch to Court is another initiative all about taking some great first steps to get

sport

you feeling healthier, happier and more confident for 2020!

With physical inactivity having a detrimental effect on body and mind, sport can be the perfect antidote to help you feel on top of your game. The biggest challenges a new netballer might face is not knowing where or how to begin.

Couch to Court will help, guide and encourage you to move from the couch to a netball court in a way that suits you, whether that’s trying a new netball session or going to a club.

If a netball session is for you, there is a four-week programme that will introduce you to netball, where you will meet likeminded women and get fit at the same time.

If you think netball might be too energetic for you there’s even a walking version, so there really is no excuse not to get involved.

To find a club near you that is offering Couch to Court visit: www.englandnetball.co.uk/ couch-to-court/get-on-court One such club which is offering these sessions is South Ribble Netball Club. It was co-founded in March 2017 by Leanne

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Leigh and Jill Shack. The club provides netball to all ages and abilities, with the aim of developing your skills and passion for the game, regardless of ability.

The club has a team of netball coaches and assistants, from UKCC Level 2 qualified to volunteer helpers, all of whom give their time up freely and enthusiastically.

THE SPORT FOR ALL HAS BUILT CONFIDENCE AND ESTEEM IN CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Photography: Can Stock Photo Photography33

In just two years the club has welcomed more than 200 ladies of all experiences and abilities and the club has gone from strength to strength starting with one adult team and increasing to five adult teams.

It has trebled in size in all areas of the club.

In April 2017, the club expanded into the junior netball strand. The sport for all has built confidence and esteem in children and young people to the extent the girls who attend, have immense self-belief in themselves and others. They all enthuse the team ethos which is fun, courage and passion and are amazing young people.

It also has a great opportunity for young volunteers and anyone wanting to get involved in its community club. n

Why not give it a go and get back on the court?

To find out more about the club visit: www.southribblenetballclub.co.uk

EAT WELL, LIVE WELL We’ve all probably eaten too much over the festive season.

It can be difficult to get back to our normal eating habits and getting your five a day seems impossible

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ut eating healthily, especially in the winter months, can help you feel better and provide those vitamins that are essential for your body.

Eating your five a day is vital for feeling good. Not only does eating fruit and veg significantly reduce risk factors for many chronic diseases in the future, but it also offers really positive benefits right now, such as increased vitality, happiness and improved quality of life. And what better way to shed any excess weight than with tasty plant foods which are low in calories yet filling because of the high levels of fibre.

When you have your five a day, you are getting the vitamins and minerals which are essential for life. Vitamin literally derives from the Latin word “vita” meaning “life”.

But your five a day doesn’t only provide basic vitamins and minerals. Each individual fruit and vegetable has its own specific and special nutrients called “phytonutrients”.

These active plant compounds help the body to work optimally. Phytonutrients are antioxidants, enzymes, detoxifying agents and fibre type gums. It’s really easy to get your five a day.

Choose any fruit or vegetable, including fresh, frozen, canned, chilled or dried, and one of your portions can be pulses (peas, beans, lentils). The edible portion size is around 80g fresh weight, but to save weighing, a rough guide is the size of your fist.Your daily five ideally includes a variety of fruit and vegetables, of different colours, to get an array of phytonutrition.

EATING YOUR FIVE A DAY IS VITAL FOR FEELING GOOD Here’s some easy ways to get your five a day: Add beans, tomatoes and mushrooms to your breakfast. Wake up to fresh pomegranate/vegetable juice (1) or a Smoothie (2-3) Sprinkle raisons and chopped banana on your cereal (1-2) Mix sweetcorn and beetroot into your tuna for sandwiches (1) Warm yourself with a large bowl of veggie soup (2) with added lentils (3) Have a side salad with your jacket potato (1), top with roasted vegetables, hummus or coleslaw (2) Have raisons, dried cranberries and banana chips as an afternoon pick me up

food&drink

(1) Snack on carrot sticks and hummus (2) Serve pasta with a vegetable based sauce such as ratatouille (2) Add tinned tomatoes, onions, garlic and mushrooms to bolognaise (1-3) Make vegetable and bean stew (2-3) with celeriac and parsnip mash (4-5) Eat tomato, onion or pulse based curries (1) with added vegetables (2) Use sweet potato instead of white potato (1) have fruit based desserts like strawberries and cream (1), rhubarb crumble (1) baked apple and raisons (2) fruit salad and yoghurt (1)

It is a cliché, but it’s true, you are what you eat. Eating the right foods will also help with your energy and help prevent illness. Every body cell is made from the food you digest. And it’s simple, if you are not eating a correct balance of foods, then your cells cannot function properly.

Did you know that our recommended dietary allowance (RDA’s) for vitamins and minerals is only the level that is needed to prevent deficiency diseases? Yet research shows that the levels for ideal health are often much higher.

Optimal levels of nutrients create health, happiness and vitality. We all have a unique combination of genetics, lifestyle, diet and environmental factors impacting on our nutritional needs. Creating your own perfect balance of nutrition is a personal matter.Your body wants fresh, alive foods. The ones you know will make you feel good just by looking at them.

They are colourful, bright and vibrant.

THIS TIME OF YEAR IS GREAT FOR MAKING HOMEMADE HEARTY SOUPS AND STEWS This time of year is great for making homemade hearty soups and stews, which can contain an abundance of tasty ingredients.

One nutrient it is worth being conscious of over the winter months is Vitamin D. Our main source is sunlight, so at this time of year it is difficult to get enough.

Vitamin D not only builds bones by encouraging calcium absorption but is also essential for a healthy immune function and enhancing our moods.

If you often have seasonal immune complaints or a tendency towards winter low mood, then your GP can check your levels for you.

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If you are low, it’s worth supplementing over the colder months. However, natural foods high in vitamin D include oily fish, mushrooms, liver, cheese, and egg yolks.

Healthy eating means putting yourself first.

Nourishing yourself says that you do matter. It’s pure and simple selfcare.

And it doesn’t take overwhelming change to improve your health. Just alter one thing at a time and see your energy and vitality transform. n

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Photography: Can Stock Photo Gajdamak

A CANDLELIT DINNER

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ancashire is awash with restaurants, so you definitely won’t be stuck for choice of where to go for Valentine’s Day. Whether you are after intimate dining or something with a bit more of an atmosphere, on your doorstep or a bit further afield, there are restaurants selling locally sourced food to the more exotic zebra and kangaroo steaks. As Valentine’s this year is on a Friday, just make sure you book early wherever you are going, so as not to avoid disappointment.

Alternatively, if you fancied being chef for the night, then why not try your hand at this dish, courtesy of BBC Good Food magazine. It’s an elegant, gluten-free recipe, special enough for a dinner party, yet simple and quick to make.

Baked sea bass with lemon caper dressing

Ingredients 4 x 100g/4oz sea bass fillets Olive oil for brushing For the caper dressing 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Grated zest 1 lemon plus 2 tbsp juice 2 tbsp small capers 2 tsp gluten-free Dijon mustard 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley, plus a few extra leaves (optional) Method To make the dressing, mix the oil with the lemon zest and juice, capers, mustard, some seasoning and 1 tbsp water. Don’t add the parsley yet (unless serving straight away) as the acid in the lemon will fade the colour if they are left together for too long.

Heat the oven to 220˚C/200˚C fan/gas 7.

Line a baking tray with baking parchment and put the fish, skin-side up, on top.

Brush the skin with oil and sprinkle with some flaky salt. Bake for 7 mins or until the flesh flakes when tested with a knife.

Photography: Can Stock Photo Gajdamak

Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us and for those loved up couples, it’s a chance to show each other how much they mean to each other. So, what is the perfect night out or in?

Arrange the fish on warm serving plates, spoon over the dressing and scatter with extra parsley leaves, if you like.

Accompany with a nice white wine such as a Chablis or a Sauvignon Blanc such as a Sancerre or Pouilly Fumé would be a perfect match.

So, splash out this Valentine’s, your loved one deserves it. n

food&drink

CELEBRATE

CHINESE NEW YEAR! Sarah Varley speaks to Yu General Manager Craig Jackson about upcoming events across the award-winning Yu group, which includes Yu Copster Green, Yu Alderley Edge and Yu Express

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u’s passion for taking Chinese cuisine to the next level has seen huge success for both their Copster Green and Alderley Edge restaurants. Using the best ingredients to blend fine dining with both traditional and modern methods of Chinese cooking has been a winning formula time and again, not least when Yu Copster Green was declared Best Chinese Restaurant in the UK by Gordon Ramsay.

Chef Victor Yu divides his time between the restaurants and prides himself on putting a thoroughly modern twist on Chinese cuisine. The emphasis on fresh ingredients and taking traditional dishes to a new level, along with some new innovative dishes, make the food offering at Yu second to none.

Chinese New Year is the perfect time to visit Yu as both restaurants will be celebrating the Year of the Rat in style,

as General Manager Craig Jackson explains: “We are hosting a Chinese New Year Dinner at Yu Alderley Edge with celebrity chef Ching He Huang on Thursday 30th January. Ching is a TV chef, author and Chinese cuisine expert – you may have seen her on cooking shows such as Saturday Kitchen – and guests will enjoy a five-course meal. Ching will be cooking both a traditional New Year menu and also vegan options for which she is famous.

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Themed nights are also planned for 2020 including an ABBA night on Thursday 6th February at Yu Copster Green in aid of local charity, Nightsafe.

“Guests will experience a fabulous three-course banquet at this themed event along with an ABBA tribute,” Craig says.

“Tickets are £45pp which includes a donation to Nightsafe and there will also be a raffle and silent auction for Nightsafe on the night.”

The renowned Yu cuisine can also be enjoyed at home thanks to Yu Express – a fabulous take-out service offering some of Yu’s most popular dishes, including vegan and vegetarian dishes, all produced to the same exacting standards as the restaurants. n

Thursday 30th January 2020: CHINESE NEW YEAR DINNER WITH CHING HE HUANG at Yu Alderley Edge Thursday 6th February 2020: ABBA NIGHT IN AID OF NIGHTSAFE at Yu Copster Green Email: craig@yualderleyedge.com for bookings and more details

“Victor is well known for collaborating with other top chefs and we have lots of guest chef events planned for 2020,” says Craig. “Victor will be cooking at the White Swan at Fence, while chef Adam Reid will be coming to us from The French at The Midland. Hrishikesh Desai, from Michelin-starred restaurant Hrishi at The Gilpin, will be cooking with us and Victor will also be cooking there.”

Yu Copster Green 500 Longsight Road, Copster Green BB1 9EU 01254 240665 info@yucopstergreen.com www.yucopstergreen.co.uk

KEEPING UP WITH DEMAND Sarah Varley speaks to Ewood Foods’ MD Stephen Sutcliffe about the rapid expansions taking place, including a new in-house butchery department and their range of awardwinning Kennedy’s sausages

E

wood Foods is an independent, family-owned business and one of the North West’s leading food service suppliers. Originally established in 1977 by MD Stephen Sutcliffe’s father Geoff, right next door to Ewood Park, the business is now based in Accrington and is going from strength to strength.

Operating from a modern, purpose-built warehouse and distribution facilities, they have a fleet of modern and purposedesigned, multi-temperature vehicles

delivering throughout the North West and West Yorkshire.

“We have customers from across the food service industry and the entire North West, including schools, colleges, hospitals, nursing homes, sandwich bars and delis, pubs and restaurants, hotels, garden centres and outside caterers,” explains MD Stephen.

“We have over 40 years’ experience and we believe in exceeding expectations in both quality and service, providing next-day delivery on which our customers can depend.

“To have won so many awards this year makes us immensely proud, including winning Best Family Business at Lancashire’s Red Rose Awards, Best Family Business at Blackburn with Darwen’s Hive Awards and Best Supplier at the North West Hospital Caterers Association Awards,” Stephen says.

“We now have around 4,000 product lines at Ewood Foods, including butchery, chilled, grocery, frozen food and non-food,

which means we really are a one-stop shop for our customers, with everything they need in one place.”

As part of a £1 million investment over the last five years, Ewood Foods now also have their own in-house butchery department, Kennedy’s Wholesale Butchery, to provide customers with all of their butchery requirements including the famous Original Real Steak Canadiann and their growing range of hugely popular Kennedy’s sausages.

WE ARE IN THE ENVIABLE POSITION OF STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP WITH DEMAND SO WE ARE CONTINUOUSLY REINVESTING “We are very proud to have launched our own brand of Kennedy’s sausages, which is a range of premium, fresh sausages made to our own unique and original recipes,” Stephen says. “Kennedy was my grandmother’s maiden name and we are absolutely delighted with how popular they have become – we are producing a premium range of fresh sausages consisting of many different flavours.

“The butchery was a big investment of around £350k, but we have seen a dramatic

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and Steak Canadiann wall posters to let their customers know that they use these high-quality products, really helping get the name out there.

“Reinvestment is something we have always believed strongly in. The Kennedy’s butchery range is constantly growing, with

20-fold increase in sausage sales alone.

We were also thrilled that after only two years of production and on the first time of entering, we were runner up at the National Sausage Week Awards for Best Traditional Sausage in Food Service with Kennedy’s Tasty Pork and Herb Sausage.

Stephen adds: “Steak Canadiann is a finely sliced real steak that cooks in a minute.

It was invented right here in Accrington by family friend Derek Ingham back in 1976 and named after his wife Ann, hence the spelling. It has now become part of Kennedys butchery, made to the same original recipe and great quality real steak and not to be confused with any reformed imitations!

It is one of our biggest selling products because it is perfect for making delicious, fast and cost-effective steak sandwiches.

“Cafes and sandwich shops are also now displaying our new Kennedy’s sausage

WE BELIEVE IN EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS IN BOTH QUALITY AND SERVICE AND WE PROVIDE NEXT-DAY DELIVERY

NEW IN-HOUSE BUTCHERY

a full butchery range now available to our customers including fresh steaks, beef, lamb, pork and chicken products and we are in the enviable position of struggling to keep up with demand so we are continuously reinvesting in new machinery, new product lines and more staff.” n

Ewood Foods is proud to announce the opening of their new in-house butchery sited just across the road from the main premises.

The new in-house butchery not only provides customers with all of their butchery requirements, but they also manufacture the Original Real Steak Canadiann as well as their range of original Kennedy’s premium fresh pork sausages – made to their own unique recipe.

Ewood Foods Huncoat Business Park Newhouse Road, Accrington Lancashire BB5 6NT 01254 235575 sales@ewoodfoods.co.uk www.ewoodfoods.co.uk

!

S E T I B D FO Tuck into our page of Food Bites which brings you the latest news on our restaurants, rural country inns, chefs and local artisan producers who all make Preston and the Fylde a region of outstanding gastronomy If you have any Food Bites news items contact: tracy.hargreaves@live-magazines.co.uk

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

The Seafood Pub Company has been named as Food-led Pub Company of the Year at a prestigious award ceremony in London. Restaurant Magazine’s R200 Awards recognise the most innovative pub operators in the multi-site restaurant sector. The win follows The Assheton Arms, one of the group’s sites being named as Dining Pub of The Year in September of last year.

AWARD WINNING

Lancashire Chocolatier, Choc Amor has won two awards at the International Chocolate Awards, World Finals and is the only UK chocolatier to win a World Award for one of its chocolate bars from a new special category. Choc Amor was crowned World Award Winners with a Silver in the ‘Milk chocolate bars with an infusion or flavouring’ category for its Turkish Charm and a further award in the Special Chocolate Tasters category – ‘Dark chocolate bars with an infusion or flavouring’. For this, they won a bronze for their Kalamata Olive Oil chocolate bar.

NEW EATERIES IN PRESTON

Two national food and drink chains The Botanist and Mowgli are due to open in St George’s Shopping Centre, Preston, in the autumn of 2020. The Botanist has taken the development’s largest unit at 10,000 sq ft, on a 15-year lease, whilst Indian street food operator Mowgli which also operates in Manchester, and Liverpool has signed up on a 15-year lease. The two brands will open as part of St George’s plans to build a 28,000 sq ft restaurant quarter.

NEW RESTAURANT ON THE BLOCK

A new Chinese restaurant has opened up in the Guild Hall in Preston Mr Lam, a renowned Chinese chef, has been serving in

restaurants in Preston since 1979. His latest venture takes the place of the former Vittoria’s restaurant which closed in December 2018 and will offer dine ins as well as take away.

HOLA TO LYTHAM

A restaurant serving Spanish cuisine is to open in Lytham later this year. El Uno Spanish Gastro is due to open at 1 Clifton Street in the town, bringing what they describe as the very best Spanish fine dining in the heart of Lytham. The eatery is currently finalising its menu with newly appointed head chef Samuel Hernández. Mr Hernandez previously worked as a head chef in Tenerife, at a fine-dining restaurant called Lagarto Brasserie.

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Ingredients – for one person 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted) 1 tbsp xylitol sugar alternative (available in supermarkets and health stores) 2 tbsps almond milk A few drops of apple cider vinegar 35g plain flour 1 /2 tsp mixed spice 1 /4 tsp cinnamon 1 /4 tsp of baking powder Pinch of bicarbonate of soda A quarter of a sweet eating apple peeled and chopped (around 20/25g) 5g chopped hazelnuts You will need a tea cup which holds approximately 180ml of fluid and that is microwave safe Method Put the coconut oil, xylitol, drops of apple cider vinegar and milk in a teacup and give it a good whisk.

Add the flour, mixed spice, cinnamon and baking powder to the mug and whisk together until smooth.

Once the mix is smooth, gently stir in half of the finely chopped apples.

Top the cake with the other half of the apples and sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on the top.

Cook in the microwave on 850W for 11/12 mins – microwave temperatures vary so you may need more or less time so watch out! In the microwave, the cake will puff up, then deflate and then rise again.

Sprinkle optional cinnamon sugar on the top (made by grinding 1 tbsp of xylitol and 1 tsp cinnamon together).

Either turn the cake out of the cup or eat it once it’s slightly cooled straight from the cup.

VEGAN & LOW SUGAR

APPLE SPICE & HAZELNUT STEAMED PUD TEACUP CAKE Since reaching the semi-finals of the 2017 the Great British Bake-Off, Stacey Hart has moved away from the icing coated cakes she was famed for and now creates healthier, but still just as delicious, bakes. Here she shares a quick and easy low sugar vegan bake, packed full of winter flavours

NB. Don’t overcook or it will get too stodgy.

If it’s undercooked you can zap it for another 10 seconds or so.This cake is designed to be eaten straight away whilst still warm (but not so hot to burn). n

Stacey Hart is a chef and recipe developer, who works to the mantra ‘taking out the sugar but not the taste!’

For more recipe inspiration from Stacey follow her on Instagram: @staceydeeskitchen

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property

NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY Low mortgage rates and rising buyer demand means there has never been a better time to buy a property in Lancashire

D

espite many buyers hesitating to act due to the political climate, the current confidence in the market remains with the best deals available right now. Fixed rate mortgages are very favourable with options such as two years at around 1.5 per cent and five-years below two per cent.

The rise in the number of available new build properties also continues to have a positive impact on buyers’ confidence with many housebuilders in the region calling for buyers to buy now.

Scott Howitt, sales director at Chartwell Mortgage Services, said: “There has never

been a better time to consider buying a property. The Bank of England’s current base interest rate is significantly lower than it was more than a decade ago, which has given rise to many different mortgage opportunities.

THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO CONSIDER BUYING A PROPERTY “When you combine these low fixedmortgage rates with the chance to secure your home with a five per cent deposit instead of a 10 per cent one, it makes buying a home a very attractive option.”

Anne Marie O’Doherty, regional sales director at Lovell Homes North West, added: “It was an impressive year for the north west property market, and we want more of our buyers to experience the benefits of this increasingly valuable region whilst the mortgage rates are so favourable.”

While some may be tentative at buying so early in the new year, it is actually a fantastic time to get onto or move up the housing ladder.

Think about what you want from your home, good location, amenities, transport etc, and as with any big purchase, do your research and shop around for mortgage deals.

If you are a first time buyer, visit www.gov.uk/buy-sell-your-home for further information and the latest schemes available. n

New Year, New Home.

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Our stunning new Castlevale, Heddon and Hollandswood show homes open on the 25th January at Wrea Brook Park. Be one of the first to walk around these fabulous show homes.

Wrea Brook Park is a distinctive collection of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes available from ÂŁ212,950. This exclusive development is positioned to take full advantage of its surroundings set on the rural outskirts of the village of Warton with easy commuting links to Preston.

Marketing suite open Thurs to Mon, 10:00am to 5:00pm 0845 073 8750 wreabrookpark@stewartmilne.com Wrea Brook Park, Warton PR4 1BD

NEW SHOW HOMES OPENING SOON!

Visit our brand new show homes from Saturday 25th January

stewartmilnehomes.com Elevation treatments and specification may vary from those shown. Please refer to architectural drawings for details. Please ask for details. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED ON IT. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press.

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Preston Offers in the region of £795,000

Scorton Offers in the region of £550,000

A stunning rural property enjoying spacious living accommodation surrounded by gardens.

Offering more traditional reception rooms with a stunning garden room adding a more contemporary twist. Five bedrooms in total, one being used as a dressing room and has a room off with a bath – perfect for relaxing. The property sits in beautifully and carefully considered gardens, hardscaped to the front and plenty of parking with double garage, along with lawned and bedded areas. There is a paddock to the side and the plot sits in 1.28 acres.

A substantial family home set over three floors in a fantastic village location.

This five-bedroom family home is nestled within a small development set in the heart of the village of Scorton and with a contemporary finish is ‘move in’ ready. The property includes two/three reception rooms and has Sonos ceiling speakers located in the hallway, lounge, kitchen, master bedroom and family bathroom. To the first floor is an excellent master suite along with two further bedrooms.

To the second floor are two further bedrooms and bathroom. A perfect family home.

Lancaster Guide price £435,000

Elegant four-bedroom, second floor, penthouse duplex apartment.

Esprick Offers in the region of £425,000

Highley attractive double fronted former farmhouse in extremely accessible location.

Located in an opulent building known as The Residence, this luxury apartment will surprise most buyers. Offering the very best of modern and traditional living but with the prestige of this fantastic setting – beautifully kept grounds and communal areas along with a stunning view. What more could one want from an apartment.

A wonderful four-bedroom home offering spacious family accommodation and recently improved by the vendors, ready to move in with no onward chain. The property offers good sized rooms to include two reception rooms and four bedrooms. The dining kitchen has recently been fitted and has views over the rear garden. There is a driveway to the side leading through to a double garage, lawned gardens to the front and rear.

FOWLER HOUSE FOWLER LANE, FARRINGTON MOSS PR25 3RJ

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Bespoke recently constructed detached residence set in private grounds in a much sought after location. The property has been built to a very high specification with high quality handcrafted fixtures and fittings throughout. On internal inspection the accommodation briefly comprises to the ground floor; grand hall, main lounge, study, downstairs WC, open plan living dining kitchen, cloak room, sun room, bedroom five, gym and a steam / sauna room. To the first floor there is a stunning galleried landing, master bedroom suite with bedroom, en-suite shower room, dressing room and access to the rear balcony, two further double bedrooms with en-suites, a fourth double bedroom with access to the balcony, a utility room and main bathroom. The loft has been boarded out and has UPVC windows, so could potentially be converted to create 2-3 extra bedrooms. Externally the property is set in very private grounds with a large electric gate, wall, fence and hedge borders, resin driveway parking for numerous cars, front, rear and side gardens, a fabulous outdoor covered seating area with fireplace and a triple detached garage.

Call for your free valuation today! Open 7 days a week, until 7pm weekdays.

Dewhurst Homes 347 Garstang Road Fulwood PR2 9UP 01772 788811 Garstang 01995 601814

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Penwortham 01772 748000

www.dewhursthomes.co.uk

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WHAT'SON

Our guide to what’s on in and around the region

25 JANUARY FOOD BURNS NIGHT SUPPER

1 FEBRUARY, 6 AND 27 MARCH FAMILY STARGAZING

Join everyone for a traditional Scottish evening on 25th January at The Green Man at Inglewhite, to celebrate the life and poetry of Robert Burns. Enjoy a three course Scottish themed dinner and revel in the Scottish atmosphere in a country pub dressed for the occasion.

Robert Ince will be your guide taking you on an incredible journey through the constellations and along the Milky Way. Wrap up warm, wear sturdy footwear, bring binoculars, if you have them and a torch. Robert will show some of the sky’s wonders through powerful telescopes and binoculars and will tell more about how to get started in this wonderful hobby. Children only over eight years old.

To book your place call 01995 643439 or email: thegreenmaninglewhite@gmail.com www.thegreenmanatinglewhite.co.uk

Tickets available from: www.brockholes.org

2 FEBRUARY HISTORY SPOOKY STORIES

15 FEBRUARY HISTORY

Simon Entwistle’s spooky stories are the kind that send a shiver down your spine. Visit Samlesbury to hear his ghostly tales of the hall and beyond.

Simon is a great tour guide with lots of fascinating insights about the house and the local area. The tour and entry are free and there’s no need to book.

Tours begin at 11am and 2pm in the Great Hall.

A day-long mystical Lancashire tour hosted by Neil McDonald’s MegalithicTours. Hear about John Dee and Edward Kelly raising the dead and visit the churchyard in Preston where the deed was done. On the old Ribble Bridge in Preston hear the amazing story covering Jacob to the Jacobites and the Holy Grail in Preston.

www.samlesburyhall.co.uk

MEGALITHIC TOUR

Tickets are priced £40. To book visit megalithictours.com www.megalithictours.com/mysticallancashire-day-tour

27 FEBRUARY EVENT WINTER GARDENS OPEN DAY

28 FEBRUARY MUSIC BOYZLIFE

The world-famous Winter Gardens will again throw open its doors for an exclusive access all areas event, allowing the public a rare chance to explore every nook and cranny of the grade 2* listed building. The public will get the chance to visit backstage of the opera house and a chance to tread the boards as well as explore and learn of its extensive history.

This show will include many of their greatest hits, the catalogue includes a record breaking 18 number one singles and nine number one albums. Two of the world’s biggest bands Boyzone and Westlife come together for the very first time with a full band production show at the King George’s Hall in Blackburn as this specially adapted theatre production will include many of their greatest hits.

www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

https://kinggeorgeshall.com /whats-on/boyzlife/

6 MARCH FAMILY CROSTON FEST 2020

7 MARCH MUSIC THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

This is the fifth annual live music festival taking place in pubs and other venues throughout Croston. Entry to each venue is by a £5 wristband and all proceeds of sales of the wristbands will go towards Croston Community Centre’s new extension and the purchase of equipment for Croston Juniors Football Club.

Are you ready for the ultimate Motown party? Prepare yourself for 40 back to back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. Including all your favourites hits: Ain’t No Mountain, Grapevine, Blame it on the Boogie, Loco in Acapulco, plus many more. Coming to the Lowther Pavilion in March.

Any bands who are interested in playing, please email: crostonfest@gmail.com www.facebook.com/pg/crostonnews

Tickets available from: www.eventim.co.uk https://lowtherpavilion.co.uk

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