Live Ribble Valley Issue 118

PLEASE TAKE THIS TARY COMPLIMEN COPY WITH YOU

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 118

UP AND RUNNING! BACK IN BUSINESS IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY HERE COMES SUMMER OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS BEST NORTHERN STAR WEST END ACTOR CAT SIMMONS SPORTING SENSATION LET’S PLAY PICKLEBALL

AUTO M AT E D BLIN DS Solutions that put you in control

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BATTERY BASICS These blinds use regular store bought batteries with a battery life dependent on size and frequency of usage. This means the potential to open and close thousands of times on a single set of batteries - located within the headrail and simple to fit without the need to take down the blind.

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

CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

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BACK IN BUSINESS With shops, country inns, bars and restaurants opening up safely and a series of incentives and strategies to get towns and villages up and running, the Ribble Valley is back in business!

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CHIPPING: A GOOD WALK Andrew Stachulski follows in the footsteps of a Times correspondent, who, seven years ago, discovered the delights of the Forest of Bowland.

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PLAY PICKLEBALL! You may never have heard of the sport, but Pickleball England’s Regional Director Elaine Shallcross explains how she has seen the game become a global sporting phenomenon.

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SIZZLING HOT Expert Callum Gillies shares a favourite recipe and explains how to get the best out of your barbecue this summer.

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GLOBAL FOLLOWING With a global online following, young singer Tom Muldoon has been involved in music all his life. Now he hopes to make it as a professional.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 14 HOMES INSIDE OUT 56 FASHION 60 HEALTH & BEAUTY 66 LIFESTYLE 92 EDUCATION 98

MOTORS

100 BUSINESS 104 SPORT 106 FOOD & DRINK 121 ARTS & CULTURE

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126 PROPERTY

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A UNIQUE NURSERY / PRE-PREP SCHOOL IN THE HEART OF THE RIBBLE VALLEY • New purpose-built Pre-Prep expansion • Small class sizes allowing growth and attentiveness • Broad curriculum offering countless opportunities • Specialist teaching from Pre-Prep age onwards • Access to the wider Stonyhurst campus and facilities • Woodland classroom • After school activities programme

Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 9PU

To book a private visit or to find out more contact: Sarah Morrison (St Mary’s Hall Registrar) Tel: 01254 827073 E: smhadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/pre-prep

LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Jan Woolley Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich, Rob Walmsley and Victoria Wren Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Sales Account Managers: Michele Preston 07872 461 561 Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Photography: Vanessa Fry, Robin Lyndon, Roger Moore, Nicola Morley and Kirsten Platt Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Alice Burns, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Andrew Stachulski, Sarah Varley, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE Office 2 The Old Bakery, Green Street, Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 366 002 LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston.

Live Magazines Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs.

While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Subscription: An annual subscription is available at ÂŁ25, to cover postage and packaging.

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Live

Magazines Editor It’s great to be back! Like everyone else we are delighted to be up and running and receiving lots of support from other local businesses.

In this issue of Live Ribble Valley we take a look at the strategies in place to ensure that the region will enjoy a robust bounce-back in terms of business and the visitor economy. It is predicted that domestic tourism will boom, with strong trends towards rediscovering the countryside and experiencing local culture and food – where better to be than the Ribble Valley?

Many local establishments have already registered with the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme, including the bistro and beer hall at Holmes Mill, which is back and buzzing. In the mill’s Bowland Food Hall we meet butcher and barbecue expert Callum Gillies, who shares with us a favourite recipe and some top tips on how to get the best out of your barbecue this summer.

We introduce a new sport to our readers – pickleball, which is huge in the US. Pickleball England’s Regional Director Elaine Shallcross, who lives in Longridge, discovered the game in Thailand and has gone on to compete in tournaments around the globe. She says the worldwide pickleball community helped save her life – an inspirational story!

We chat to young singer and musician Tom Muldoon, who as a schoolboy posted a recording of himself singing on Facebook – a performance that got in excess of 10 million views! Since then he has developed his own personal style and has turned professional.

We get out on the road with Andy Smallwood, who is at the helm of Ribble Cycles, which has seen sales rocket by 300 per cent. In our Food and Drink section we introduce new places to dine out and in our racy Motoring section, we take a test drive in the all-electric Porsche Taycan, which is declared sensational!

We hope you enjoy this issue of Live Ribble Valley magazine.

Jan Woolley Editor

PLEASE TAKE THIS TARY COMPLIMEN COPY WITH YOU

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 118

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 94

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 117

UP AND RUNNING! BACK IN BUSINESS IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY WHITE HOT SUMMER FASHION IN THE BAG TALENTED SUSIE TALBOT WILD COUNTRY CELEBRATING THE BOWLAND HARE THE RAILWAY CHILDREN CLITHEROE SCHOOL PROJECT

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY HOW ONE COUNCIL COPED WITH COVID-19 GETTING BACK TO BUSINESS PRESTON BID AND ITS MISSION TO HELP THE CITY SUMMER FOOD AND DRINK DISCOVER NEW, EXCITING FOOD AND WINE PAIRINGS

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

HERE COMES SUMMER OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS BEST NORTHERN STAR WEST END ACTOR CAT SIMMONS SPORTING SENSATION LET’S PLAY PICKLEBALL

Integrated Technology

HOME CONTROL • Home cinema • Smart home • Lighting centre • Automated curtains and blinds • Home networking • Multi room audio visual systems • Automated gates • We offer a full mechanical and electrical packages • Full in house project management and dedicated in house IT support • SSAIB registered for intruder alarms & CCTV systems

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A contemporary family kitchen for a narrow space Sarah and Heath renovated their home, adhering to a contemporary style with muted neutral tones. The kitchen was a major part of the renovation, with Sarah wanting a totally new look with a modern, industrial feel.

They had set their heart on a display at Kitchen Design Centre’s Manchester showroom but to get a comparison of price and service, they also approached a national kitchen retailer but immediately discounted them as their designs were poor and the price far more than Kitchen Design Centre had quoted.

Their room was very narrow. To incorporate the elements Sarah wanted: separate table, bulkhead and island, Rowan presented a clever design that maximised space and knocked a wall down, creating a larger space.

Appliances were important with the couple wanting Neff throughout as they had always had Neff and considered it to be a good, solid brand. With Kitchen Design Centre being a Neff Masterpartner this was no problem.

In keeping with Sarah’s interior décor in other rooms, Rowan worked with her to create the perfect colour scheme in the kitchen, combining Putty Concrete Pearl Grey units with Grey Oak Grain-Cut Timber table, breakfast bar and décor panels and Designer White Corian worktops. The result is the perfect contemporary industrial look and feel.

Sarah says, “We’re delighted with the kitchen and really impressed with Kitchen well for us as a family and it’s a great sociable space for entertaining too.”

Designer Rowan Chick says: “Creating Sarah and Heath’s dream kitchen was a challenge due to the narrow nature of the room but I’m It’s a stunning space that not only houses all the Neff appliances but offers plenty of storage and gives Sarah the island she wanted.”

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

BARROWFORD

BLACKBURN

FAILSWORTH MANCHESTER

URMSTON MANCHESTER

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4-6 Gladstone Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NL

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Housing Units The Crescent Wickentree Lane Manchester M35 9AY

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36 Woolton Street Woolton Village Liverpool L25 5JD

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Photography: Courtesy of RVBC

Photography: Courtesy of RVBC

BACK IN BUSINESS‌

T

he Ribble Valley is coming back to life and, where better to enjoy the great outdoors, local culture, first class shopping experiences, eating out and some of the best local produce in the UK. There is a renewed optimism as local businesses, along with shops, pubs and restaurants, are safely opening up, enthusiastically welcoming back visitors.

In a confident collaboration, Ribble Valley Borough Council (RVBC) and Ribble Valley Tourism Association (RVTA) have together drawn up a unique action plan to help businesses and tourism flourish.

Championing all that is good about the Ribble Valley, the plan is designed to create strategies to restore the visitor economy and maximise opportunities.

Many local businesses have been incredibly enterprising providing alternative services

With shops, bars and restaurants opening up safely and a series of incentives and strategies to get towns and villages up and running, the Ribble Valley is back in business in order to generate income when lockdown forced them to close.

They have supported their communities and key workers, offered take-away services, donated to food banks and made rooms available for quarantine purposes.

WE HAVE MANAGED TO RE-OPEN THE MAJORITY OF OUR BUSINESSES IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY AND INTEND TO KEEP EXTENDING THE OPENING HOURS AS DEMAND GROWS

There have been some amazing examples of innovation with businesses keeping in touch with customers using social media and virtual events. Similarly, many operators have refurbished and refreshed their businesses and developed new skills.

There is nothing but positivity and a renewed consumer confidence.

As one of Lancashire’s strongest tourism brands, it is thought the Ribble Valley visitor economy will see a robust bounceback with predictions that domestic tourism will boom, with a strong trend towards rediscovering the countryside and experiencing local culture and food.

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Photography: knowletop.com

localfocus

The strategic recovery plan states: “The food offering is particularly distinctive to Ribble Valley, and it should feature more significantly in tourism promotion.”

The strategy also lists a number of campaigns to ensure economic recovery is swift with exciting new experiences and itineraries to attract visitors to the Valley which will have a direct economic benefit to local businesses.

These include more self-guided walks with safe dining experiences, a re-launch of the Ribble Valley Food Trail along with the potential of holding a week-long Valley-wide series of food and walking experiences, which is currently under consideration.

Along with #LoveRibbleValley there will also be campaigns to support Love the Great Outdoors, Love Food and Drink, Love Picnics as well as Love Our Business, which will celebrate individual businesses, as well as Love Meetings promoting safe and welcoming venues and Love Weddings supporting the Ribble Valley as a safe wedding destination.

“The Ribble Valley is an incredibly special place, alive with innovation and home to many entrepreneurs. Tourism and hospitality businesses have recovered from difficult times before, and changing the way we operate, being creative and working together, it can recover again,” explains Amanda Dowson, Chairman of Ribble Valley Tourism Association.

THERE ARE PREDICTIONS THAT DOMESTIC TOURISM WILL BOOM, WITH A STRONG TREND TOWARDS REDISCOVERING THE COUNTRYSIDE AND EXPERIENCING LOCAL CULTURE AND FOOD Before opening their doors, around 250 Ribble Valley high street retailers received letters from the council asking when and how they intended to re-open as the first step in getting the region back to business. The council received £53,771

from the government’s Reopening High Streets Safely Fund, to help install a range of safety measures, such as signage, street markings and new routes for traffic.

The government announcement that face coverings are now mandatory for shoppers, has also been welcomed as an extra safety measure.

The government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme has also been widely welcomed by the Ribble Valley’s hospitality leaders.

The scheme will see diners enjoying a £10 discount per person when eating out in cafes, pubs and restaurants.

Sarah Brookfield-Almond, MD of James’ Places said they had registered a considerable number of their establishments with the scheme, including the bistro and beer hall at Holmes Mill: “It has been fantastic to see so many people back out supporting their local pubs, restaurants and cafes, safely.

We have managed to re-open the majority of our businesses in the Ribble Valley and intend to keep extending the offer and opening hours as demand grows.”

LUXURY LIVING A family home in the Ribble Valley was completely transformed when the owners removed internal walls to create a large open plan luxury living space. Photography: Vanessa Fry

P

aul, Kate and their family have lived in their semi-detached home in Old Langho for more than 15 years. Last year they decided it was time for a new kitchen, which resulted in the total transformation of their ground floor living space.

“I had a vision of what it could look like but I wasn’t sure it could be done as we had to take down a number of walls,” explains Paul, who with Kate had visited a number of kitchen companies before contacting Katie Green at Heart of your

Home Kitchens.

“We looked at the website and we were really impressed by Katie’s designs,” says Paul.

Katie visited Paul and Kate’s home to discuss ideas and explain how the couple’s dream kitchen could be created: “We had a small snug which used to be a study but since we moved in we’ve never really used it. It was quite literally a total waste of space.

“We knew that if we knocked walls down and opened up the space to create a

homesinsideout

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adds Paul, a DIY enthusiast, who removed the old kitchen himself.

Once that was done, Katie’s expert fitter Matt stepped in to install the cabinets in elegant Mornington Graphite, with classic dark nickel cup handles and worktops in White Quartz.

WHEN WE COULD ACTUALLY SEE THE NEW KITCHEN SPACE ON SCREEN AND MOVE AROUND THE ROOM IT WAS AMAZING!

large open area, we had the square footage to create the kitchen we had always envisaged.

I was concerned that we wouldn’t have enough wall space for the kitchen units and I couldn’t visualise it but that’s where Katie came in.”

When Katie went to visit Kate and Paul she reassured them that what they had in mind could indeed be done. She showed them a portfolio of her work to give them an idea of what could replace their old kitchen. As Paul explains: “We loved our old kitchen but we agreed we wanted to start again and totally re-design it.

the creation of a bench against a wall, with storage underneath, which would be ideal for the couple’s children to store wellingtons and walking boots.

“Katie was brilliant. She would come up with different options for every suggestion that we made. I thought Katie maybe considered that we were being a bit awkward as we changed our minds quite a lot but she was totally understanding and very patient.”

KATIE WAS BRILLIANT. EVERY SUGGESTION WE MADE SHE WOULD COME UP WITH DIFFERENT OPTIONS “We liked the idea of Shaker style cabinets but hadn’t decided on colours.

We definitely didn’t want a dark colour because the area doesn’t get a lot of natural light. However, Katie explained that if we opted for white worktops, a darker colour could work well.”

After taking dimensions, Katie invited Paul and Kate to her beautiful showroom in Waddington where she showed them her proposed design.

“Wow! It was just one big wow,” recalls Paul. “When we could actually see the new kitchen space on screen and move around the room it was amazing! It was the first time we could see how our new kitchen would look without the walls. We could see the units and Katie could even show us inside the cupboards – she was really thinking ahead of us.”

The designs that Katie came up with sparked more ideas, bi-fold doors and

Once Paul and Kate had chosen the cabinets and the colour it was time to call in the builders: “Katie was happy for me to use my own builder but he wasn’t able to start straight away which wasn’t a problem for her. Once work started Katie kept in touch regularly to see how things were going. She called every time a wall was knocked down to check the dimensions,”

Neff appliances were installed including a hide and slide oven along with a combination microwave, induction hob with extractor above, fridge freezer and a Quooker boiling water tap.

“Katie gave us the option of a Quooker tap in black and a black sink. I liked the idea of the black against the white worktop, so we went for it and it looks stunning!

Every step of the way Katie gives you different options.”

As the couple wanted their new kitchen completed by Christmas, time was tight as Paul recalls: “The kids were worried that we wouldn’t be able to have a Christmas tree but Matt assured me it would be done.

Katie recommended a decorator and Matt finished on the Friday before Christmas and came back on the Saturday to do all the final checks. The lights over the island were fitted the day before Christmas Eve so we did it!

“Christmas in our new kitchen was very special. Katie was brilliant! She kept in contact throughout the installation and if we had any questions she got back to us straight away. We are thrilled with our new kitchen!”

Heart of your Home Kitchens

Heart of your Home Kitchens Backridge Farm Business Centre Twitter Lane Waddington BB7 3LQ FINAL ARTWORK 01200 444540 HEART OF YOUR HOME - ARTWORK 28/03/2016 heartofyourhomekitchens.co.uk

Katie at Heart of your Home Kitchens is thrilled to announce that her studio has now safely re-opened post Covid-19.

© ARTURAS JANUSAS 2016 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Please contact her directly to book your exclusive design appointment.

01200 444540

TM

OUTDOOR WICKER BAR WITH PALM ROOF £850 ellajames.co.uk

AMALFI SIX-SEATER OUTDOOR HOT TUB INCLUDING 109 JETS AND INTEGRATED BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS FROM £7500 ribblevalleyspas.co.uk

OUTDOOR L IV IN G Here comes summer! For a super-stylish garden check out these luxury outdoor accessories PALM LEAF GARDEN PARASOL £90 ellajames.co.uk

PINA COLADA RED MIX DECKCHAIR £140 penelopehope.com

MAPORA SET OF THREE MULTI-COLOURED BAMBOO FOOD COVERS £25 habitat.co.uk

OLD ROSE PINK PICNIC RUG £124 tollymcrae.co.uk WILLOW WICKER LANTERNS SMALL £35 AND LARGE £50 Green Pheasant Gifts 6 Winckley Street Preston PR1 2AA 07966 456354

NATURAL WILLOW TWIN BOTTLE HOLDER £11.50 tch.net

RATTAN PICNIC BASKET WITH LID £57 beaumonde.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

We’re so happy to be back open and are looking forward to welcoming you into our store. As Clitheroe’s leading independent department store, we have a fantastic range of top quality brands across a wide selection of departments. da

Womenswear

Cookshop

Handbags

Paint & DIY

Linen

Gifts

Outdoor Living We also have Maxwell’s cafe bar & restaurant next door serving a variety of delicious food & drinks throughout the day.

Clitheroe: 54-56 King St, Clitheroe, BB7 2EU | 01200 425151

dawsonsdepartmentstore.co.uk

Proud to be a family business...

KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS | STUDIES | AV ROOMS

manufacturing locally & employing local people

All our beautiful bespoke furniture is designed and created in our 19th century Lancashire mill.

As a family owned company with over 40 years experience, we are proud to produce exquisite kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies and AV rooms. Family values are at the very heart of the company and we are proud to be a British manufacturer employing local people.

Our extensive showroom houses over 17 full sized room sets.

We have procedures in place to ensure your safety in the showroom.

Whether it is a bespoke piece of furniture, a room you require or a whole house project, we offer the complete package.

Visit us at our mill, we’d love to show you our stunning showroom.

Greenfield Mill, Greenfield Road, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 9PF T: 01282 863988 info@simpsonsfurniture.co.uk Open: Mon to Thurs 9am to 5pm Fri 9am to 4pm Sat by appointment only.

www.simpsonsfurniture.co.uk

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homesinsideout

Celebrating her third decade of Chalk Paint ®, Annie Sloan has launched a pearl-effect glaze to complement her collection of paints

F

PEARLY QUEEN

ine artist, colour expert and paint legend Annie Sloan is celebrating 30 years since the creation of Chalk Paint ® with the launch of an anniversary-appropriate pearlescent glaze.

Having revolutionised decorative painting in 1990 with the invention of her now-iconic velvety matt formula, Annie brings pizzazz to paint jobs with the launch of the glossy new glaze.

Developed to apply over Chalk Paint ®, Annie Sloan Pearlescent Glaze creates fussfree glistening pearl-effect pieces. Paint two coats over white for a solid pearl look, paint over light colours for intense pearlescence or over dark shades for a subtle glimmer, equivalent to a metallic paint.

Annie Sloan invented her revolutionary furniture paint, Chalk Paint ®, in 1990 and hasn’t stopped refining and improving the formula. With no need for priming or sanding, Chalk Paint ® is as easy to use as opening the tin, dipping your brush and applying paint to furniture!

She has been named as one of Britain’s most influential female designers.

Annie Sloan Pearlescent Glaze is manufactured, along with 44 mixable Chalk Paint ® colours, at Annie’s purposebuilt factory alongside the brand’s Oxford headquarters and sold via the Annie Sloan website and a nationwide network of independent distributors.

anniesloan.com

YOUR ONE STOP-SHOP FOR ANNIE SLOAN PAINTS, WAXES, BRUSHES AND BOOKS

Also offering a complete home interior design service and a wide range of fabrics and wallpapers.

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Loom® LOFT furniture & & interiors interiors furniture

LIVING · INTERIORS · DINING & OCCASIONAL HOME ACCESSORIES · BEDROOM · BISTRO A A stylish stylish furniture furniture and and interiors interiors store store with with aa delectable delectable bistro, bistro, located in the heart of Lancashire’s stunning Ribble Valley located in the heart of Lancashire’s stunning Ribble Valley at at Barrow Barrow Brook Brook Business Business Village, Village, Clitheroe.

Clitheroe.

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Loom Loom Loft, Loft, Barrow Barrow Brook Brook Business Business Village, Village, Holly Holly Road, Road, Barrow, Barrow, Clitheroe, Clitheroe, Lancashire, Lancashire, England, England, BB7 BB7 9WF 9WF | Open 7 Days a Week || 01200 404404 | www.loomloft.co.uk 01200 404404 | www.loomloft.co.uk | Open 7 Days a Week MONDAY-SATURDAY MONDAY-SATURDAY 9.30AM-6.00PM, 9.30AM-6.00PM, SUNDAY SUNDAY 10AM-4PM 10AM-4PM

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homesinsideout Additionally, the East London Parasol Company has launched two leopard parasols.

A classic print which has adorned many recent catwalks and is hotly anticipated to showcase in many designers’ look-books in 2020.

East London Parasol Company’s founder, Lucy Ferguson, was inspired by her travels in Southern India. Whilst living in Kerala, Lucy saw decorative parasols used in religious celebrations and fell in love with the riotous colours she saw. She bought her own collection of richly coloured parasols and, on her return to East London, discovered that no time in her garden was complete without one. She still works with the Kerala parasol makers and she designs a new collection each year, working with artisans and modern fabric technology to create unique parasols.

PERFECT PARASOLS A new collection of parasols has been launched in beautiful colours and featuring unique designs

L

aunched in 2016, East London Parasol Company creates decadent garden parasols with fabrics, tassels and carvings in unique designs made by craftsmen and artisans in India and Indonesia. The parasols are available with decorative bases and cushions for the discerning garden enthusiast and those wanting to liven up their gardens, patios or balconies this coming summer.

New for 2020, is the East London Parasol Company’s William Morris Collection which showcases a selection of beautiful parasols called William, Big William and Big Bill in varying sizes. The range reworks and recolours a print from the renowned William Morris archive. Morris was a pioneer of the Arts and Crafts movement, strongly influenced by the natural surroundings of the countryside, as well as having an admiration for artwork from India and the East. His designs are a

Each parasol and cushion is made by hand, using traditional handcrafts to create contemporary designs. East London Parasol Company holds a strong ethos of keeping artisans in work, creating high quality competitive goods and sustaining their craft. Many of these processes can’t be mechanised, and if they were, the beauty and personality of the fabrics would be lost.

Each design works with the limitations of hand-made fabrics to create unique pieces that machines cannot make.

2020 will also see East London Parasol Company launch in the US, with a special collection available.

The William Morris collection of parasols are priced £450 - £750 and are available in different sizes Other parasols are priced from £315 - £750 Cushions from £30 - £80

perfect match for the ethos of East London Parasol Company – 10 per cent of the proceeds of sales will be donated to the William Morris Gallery.

eastlondonparasols.com

THE PERFECT APPLIANCE FOR COMPACT KITCHENS The new Hotpoint 55cm fridge freezers provide a compact solution with a generous storage capacity. Equipped with Frost Free technology so you never have to face the chore of defrosting the freezer again, and suitable for use in outbuildings and garages* so you can place the appliance anywhere you need. * Suitable to be stored in temperatures as low as -15°C

Suitable for outbuildings & garages* *store in temperatures -15°C and above

Tested -15° C

AHEAD OF THE GAME Established for over 20 years, Systems Ltd has grown from one to four manufacturing sites.

Pre-lockdown, Gail Bailey visited Photography: Roger Moore

F

ounded in 1996 by Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, Prefix Systems has grown to become one of the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of a wide variety of home improvement systems including aluminium windows and doors and glazed and tiled roof home extensions.

With a business ethos based on first class service combined with high level of before and after sales support, Prefix moved to larger premises in 1999 and gradually evolved opening its second distribution premises in Northampton in 2006 to allow the

company to distribute nationally, then a third in Swansea in 2008 and the South Coast in 2017.

“We can now deliver to any part of mainland UK and our own delivery fleet can deliver direct to premises or to any site,” they explain.

MANY MORE PEOPLE ARE NOW CHOOSING TO WORK FROM HOME, OR ARE KEEN TO EXTEND THEIR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES A company that never stands still, Prefix realised the benefit to both trade and homeowners of having showrooms for consumers to visit: “Our expert staff are on hand and customers can visit to see products on display.

“In more normal times there is no appointment needed and we have no salesman – just the opportunity to see products such as sliding and bi-folding doors, windows and hardware, with

We would like to reinforce that we are Covid-19 secure and safety measures have been implemented throughout the business to ensure it is safe to visit our showroom.

Social distancing measures are in place and our showroom is thoroughly cleaned regularly, particularly after each visitor.

homesinsideout are now choosing to work from home, or are keen to extend their outdoor living spaces and there is much more desire to improve rather than move. We have 25 years’ experience of home improvement products, single storey extensions, orangeries, tiled roofs, canopies and verandas. We manufacture and supply anything from a simple aluminium window to full off-site construction,” they explain.

THE COMPANY ARE AHEAD OF THE GAME IN TERMS OF ENGINEERING, AS WELL AS BEING FANTASTIC TO WORK WITH

expert technical advice, in a relaxed and informal setting. Due to Covid-19, we do ask that you call us to book an appointment as we are limited to the number of visitors we can have in the showroom.”

The company can also put customers in touch with local installers who they work with, or clients can source their own installer or builder.

Prefix have developed their own unique aluminium brand of windows and doors, Opal. Aluminium has recently become the choice over PVC for a number of reasons including primarily it’s longevity – aluminium lasts up to 50 years, nearly double that of PVC. Along with this it is stronger and more durable, more secure, energy efficient and heat resistant.

“There are also many more colour choices, finishes and textures with our Opal Aluminium range compared to PVC. We include a powder coating which ensures long lasting colour and performance,” Chris Baron explains.

Understanding lifestyle changes and customer needs is key to the success of Prefix Systems and they have a clear vision and understanding of how work and home lives are changing: “Many more people

The company has won numerous awards and one they are especially proud of is the recent ‘Best Solid Roof Award’ at the Conservatory & Orangery Awards.

“We are honoured to receive any award,” Chris Cooke says. “But it is particularly important to be recognised by your peers.”

Prefix Systems Ltd was also the only company to win three awards in one night at the prestigious Red Rose Awards.

“We feel we won the awards because we are different,” Chris Baron explains.

“Innovation is hugely important to us and we never stand still – from creating our own Opal aluminium range to working with revolutionary new products such as heated glass which removes the need for radiators and underfloor heating.”

The company is also beginning to work with virtual reality software which will allow customers to view 3D CAD drawings for single storey extensions and they also have online designer programmes where clients can design their own front door.

Partner feedback adds further testimony to the company’s outstanding product design, quality and service: “Prefix Systems are absolute experts, they provide quality not just in their products but also in their service,” was one comment at the opening of the showroom with another adding: “The company is ahead of the game in terms of engineering, as well as being fantastic to work with.”

Under the current circumstances, the showroom is now by appointment only so we can accommodate visitors safely.

Our opening times are: Monday to Thursday: 9am-5pm Friday: 9am-4pm Weekends by appointment

Prefix Systems Ltd Systems House, Cunliffe Road Whitebirk, Blackburn BB1 5UA 01254 871800 enquiries@prefixsystems.co.uk prefixsystems.co.uk

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INTERIORS

KITCHENS

BEDROOMS

BATHROOMS

Clearly Interiors, Exclusive Partner to the Bauformat Kitchen Family supply, design and install Clearly Interiors suppl luxury, affordable kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. Featuring over 25 Kitchen Displays, 60 Bathrooms and 12 Bedrooms, Clearly Interiors play host to the largest displaying showroom in the UK for Bauformat, Kindred Bedrooms and Crosswater Bathrooms, along with many ma more top brands.

SCAN ME Take a Virtual Tour of our showroom, plugin your VR goggles and immerse yourself around our quality kitchen, bedroom and bathroom displays from your own home.

We are currently operating by appointment only, however, you are welcome to browse providing that we can adhere to the social distancing measures.

Unit 3, Holme Road, Burnley, Lancashire, BB12 0BJ (Junction 11, M65) 01282 448800 info@clearlyinteriors.com www.clearlyinteriors.com

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homesinsideout become more experimental with outdoor accessories, adding statement pieces and creating focal points in the garden.

“The popularity of outdoor rugs is all part of an overall trend where people are increasingly treating their outdoor spaces with the same consideration as their interiors. As a result garden furniture and accessories are going way beyond the usual garden lounger! We’re seeing the use of soft furnishings, lighting, lanterns and rugs to build beautifully curated spaces.

“Used to extend living space beyond the house, rugs allow homeowners to get cosy and creative outdoors. They help to define a living space in a garden as well as tie your outdoor scheme together. Outdoor rugs are also quite practical – bringing less dirt indoors from underfoot and covering less than perfect grass.

“Advances in the materials used and construction of outdoor rugs means they’re very long-lasting and can easily withstand

TAKE THE INDOORS OUT While ‘bringing the outdoors in’ has been a popular home interior trend for the past few years, 2020 is set to see a major reverse

B

rits are predicted to focus on their outdoor space this year, maximising every inch of available living space and investing not only in traditional outdoor furniture, but also in soft furnishings and accessories such as rugs, lighting, cushions and throws – opting for statement colour and designs.

The trend to bring more colour and comfort to UK gardens has been evidenced by a huge increase in demand for outdoor rugs.

Daniel Prendergast, Design Director at therugseller.co.uk shares his advice for choosing the best outdoor rug: “Customers are searching for bright colours and bold pattern when it comes to outdoor rugs – something to add the wow factor to their outdoor entertaining areas. The open space in gardens means customers can experiment with large scale and bold use of colour more so than in interior rooms.

“Geometrics are a popular look, and pinks and yellows work really well, mirroring the colours naturally found in the garden.

We also have reversible rugs for versatility and to increase the life of the rug.

“Animal and bold botanical print is also set to be a popular choice for 2020, as we

whatever the great British weather throws at them. But they will need to be properly cared for.

“Often outdoor rugs are manufactured from weatherproof material, some being completely waterproof. Polypropylene is a popular manmade fibre that’s often used for outdoor products because it’s affordable, durable and easy to clean. A lot of natural materials such as jute and hemp can also be used outdoors and are brilliant for adding texture but they’re slightly less durable than their manmade counterparts.

“It’s still advisable to store any outdoor soft furnishings inside though, or in a waterproof container, when not in use.”

therugseller.co.uk

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FRESH BOTANICALS Award winning designer Susannah Weiland explains

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usannah Weiland’s work is influenced by the colours and the textures of the natural world, with Kew Gardens providing the inspiration for her debut range the Botanical Collection. The designs are reminiscent of old botanical drawings from the 18th century, delicate and illustrative with splashes of colour. Drawing from photographs she has taken, Susannah creates surface patterns which are digitally printed onto fabric. She then hand-embroiders and beads highlights of colour into the fabric and reprints it to produce luxury wallpaper.

There are four designs in this collection, three of which are available in two different colourways.

Hummingbirds Tropical Plants features orchids and butterflies from Kew Gardens Palm House and the Prince of Wales Conservatory, combined with bright hummingbirds and caterpillars.

Kew Peacocks at Kew Gardens Great Pagoda features peacocks and ducks, with an aeroplane passing overhead in the distance.

Frogs on a Lily Pad is inspired by the

Waterlily House with lily pads, lotus and other exotic plants, fish swimming freely and frogs hopping from pad to pad.

Entangled Chrysanthemums features vines and small rose heads, with ladybirds adding a tiny flash of colour.

Susannah explains: “I like to work in colour and I like to work in black and white.

I combine my love of tonal black and white pencil drawing with colourful delicate hand embroidery and beading to create luxury pieces of art and decorative cushions. When first visiting Kew Gardens as a teenager I found the gardens stunning and mesmerising with so many rare and exotic plants and flowers. Every time I visit, I discover something new.

“My designs are reproduced for luxury wallpaper, upholstery fabric, decorative wall plates and cocktail chairs and I have a range of hand embroidered wall art and luxury cushions. My cushions and chairs are made in London, and my botanical wallpaper and fabrics are printed in the UK,” says Susannah, who has pursued a career in the fashion industry for the last 20 years.

“My textile prints have been sold worldwide and I have designed for a range of private labels, studios, designers, agents and retailers. During this time I have also been experimenting with materials like leather and paint, while learning crafts such as tapestry and machine embroidery.

My grandmother, a keen hand embroiderer, first introduced me to embroidery as a child, and when I came back to the needle and thread again a few years ago I was hooked!”

Drawn to plants and flowers with interesting shapes and textures, and to animals and insects which are bright and colourful, Susannah adds: “Being a keen photographer, I enjoy taking photos which I draw from and create repeat surface patterns.”

When not designing Susannah can be found running in the London parks which are always a source of inspiration.

susannahweiland.co.uk

Bathrooms to inspire... ...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

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tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

NEW LOOK Canterbury Fireplaces owner Lucas Everett has been busy helping customers enjoy their homes with the latest and greatest choice of stoves and Sarah Varley.

Photography: Robin Lyndon

A

s one of the largest fireplace showrooms in the UK, Canterbury Fireplaces is the ideal place to find the perfect fire for your home. Set over 4,000 square-feet across two floors, this spacious showroom features 150 of the very latest in contemporary and traditional woodburning stoves and gas and electric fires in working displays of every style, finish and surround available.

Renowned not only for the choice, but for the expertise and exceptional service that make them so popular with customers, owner Lucas Everett has been delighted

with the positive response since reopening in June.

“We took the time during lockdown to finish the huge refurbishment we’ve been carrying out over the last 18 months and

I think customers will be impressed when they arrive to see all the work we have done,” says Lucas. “There’s a fresh new look right from the car park and throughout the showroom, from new signs, new lighting and another 10 to 12 displays.”

homesinsideout

fires which look amazing,” enthuses Lucas.

“We’ve also been working with customers planning extensions. Right from the earliest stage we can work with architects’ drawings to plan where the gas supply needs to be for a gas fire or where the flue should go for a log burner.”

Canterbury Fireplaces offer a complete service from bespoke design to expert installation and their level of expertise and attention to detail is evident throughout the showroom. Knowledgeable staff are available to help you choose from the fantastic options available and there is plenty of space to safely browse and view the working displays in action. You will find leading brands including Gazco, Stovax, Contura, TermaTech, Charlton & Jenrick, Vision Trimline and E-line, Element 4, Dimplex and Elgin & Hall.

It’s clear that customers have been taking this time to improve their homes too. “We’ve had lots of purchases such as Legend outdoor heaters and Kamado Joe ceramic grills to enhance enjoyment of outdoor spaces at home,” Lucas says. “We’ve also been really busy helping people with their renovation plans for indoors too. I think instead of holidays this year, people are spending money on their homes.

INSTEAD OF HOLIDAYS, THIS YEAR PEOPLE ARE SPENDING MONEY ON THEIR HOMES “The right fireplace adds another dimension to your home. We have been installing really beautiful fires and surrounds – including some false chimney breasts with three-sided

“Our expansion over the last 18 months has meant we can bring customers all the very best stoves and fires from across Britain and Europe for every budget and meet the capacity and standards of the most exclusive brands,” says Lucas.

“We have a massive selection of modern, clean-burning eco-design ready stoves, which I’m really passionate about as they can reduce emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to a traditional open fire.

“We are very proud to be recognised for our range and level of customer service and fitting as a Centre of Excellence by PureVision and to be awarded Expert Retailer status by Gazco and Stovax, all British companies who are market leaders

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in wood-burning stoves and gas and electric fires.

“We currently have some fantastic summer deals on Contura, a really sought after Swedish brand. They have great contemporary designs and unusual features, like being turnable, and finishes in white aluminium and naturally unique, heat retaining soapstone,” Lucas explains. Some of these Scandinavian contemporary log burners have up to £300 off right now.

SOME OF THESE SCANDINAVIAN LOG BURNERS HAVE UP TO £300 OFF RIGHT NOW But the biggest news has to be the arrival of the newest member of the Canterbury Fireplaces team, Lucas and partner Tessa’s baby daughter! Lucas says: “Frances was born on 12th March so our parents and families got to meet her just before lockdown.

I really enjoyed having that extra time together as a family – in such lovely weather too – and we really made the most of it.” Congratulations!

Canterbury Fireplaces has over 30 years’ experience, offering expert advice and a complete, hassle-free service from bespoke design through to seamless installation.

Visit the showroom today.

Canterbury Fireplaces Canterbury Street Blackburn BB2 2HP 01254 682574 info@canterburyfireplaces.com canterburyfireplaces.com

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homesinsideout extra flight of stairs is handy if you don’t have to supervise children – away from busy family life and distractions.

Even in a secluded spot, you might find yourself distracted.

So, pick the area that’s the least likely to get messy.You can even take some Feng Shui tips to ensure it remains clutter-free, and boosts energy and productivity in turn – it’s not just useful for improving your bedroom!

You’ll want to make sure you can still have all your essentials though. A place where you can be both minimalist, while using the likes of plug sockets and other work-related items.

FIVE ESSENTIALS

FOR A PRODUCTIVE HOME STUDY If you’re one of the many who are able to work from home, here are a few key tips on how you can create an effective work space

I

f you are setting up a home work space for the first time, you’ll be looking for ways to create a productive area, where you can get organised, be efficient and remain focused.

Not knowing how long we’ll be working from home for makes creating a productive office area a key priority.

So, if you’re setting up your work zone from scratch, or just considering it’s high time for a revamp, here are a few essentials:

A quiet and clutterfree location This might sound difficult, given you may be trying to keep an eye on the kids as well. But consider

an area where you can create a work-life separation just by closing the door – out of sight, out of mind. Not many of us will have an ideal spot waiting to be speedily transformed into an office, so consider an upstairs landing which could be converted into a temporary study. A space where you need to climb an

A spacious desk For smaller offices, corner desks are an ideal solution that allow you to maximise available space.

Your desk should be just the right height to slot an office chair underneath and position your laptop or PC at eye level.

An ergonomic design is important if you’re to spend hours comfortably at your desk.

The last thing you want to do is end the day with back pain and an aching neck.

If you lack the space for a study, you may find it useful to create a

HARTLEYS multi-purpose area, for instance a foldaway desk which can be seamlessly shut away as part of a wall cabinet when not in use.

With a few framed photos, your home office will soon start to feel like… well, home.

Organiser drawers

Natural lighting itself has a part to play in boosting physical and mental well-being, as well as improving sleep and productivity, not to mention reducing your electricity bill! If possible, your home office space will have a window and, if possible, a scenic view to keep you motivated.

Creating an ambience may be a priority when fitting out your lounge or bedroom, but a study requires lighting that’s appropriate for long days at the desk. If the lighting in your room is lacking,

From spare paper for the printer, to pens, paperclips and highlighters, keeping those office basics close to hand is crucial if you want to enhance productivity at home. Drawers are an important feature in any office, so try and ensure your units have plenty of storage to prevent clutter from accumulating on your desk.

Want to organise your stationery? Choose drawers that have organiser trays.

FIT TING FURNITURE FOR YOU

Get your lighting right

storage to suit you

Bespoke furniture

A filing system and accessible shelving If there’s one thing that should always be kept in order, it’s paperwork. However, many of us feel reluctant to take filing seriously when it means facing our old, overflowing filing cabinets. When creating your home office, start afresh with a filing system that’s easy and pain-free to manage. Integrating your folders into a filing drawer will keep key documents out of sight but within reach.

If you constantly need to refer to guidelines and handbooks, shelving will ensure that your trusty books are close to hand.

choose a quality desk lamp that has different settings for day and night.

At Hartleys we’ve been designing, crafting and fitting bespoke home studies for 40 years, so if you have any questions for us, we have the know-how. Contact us via our website and we’ll be happy to help as soon as we can.

If you would like to make an appointment to visit our showroom or request a design visit, please call us on 01756 700471 or email us at: info@hartleysbedrooms.co.uk hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

made locally just for you

To request your FREE design visit at home, call 01756 700471 Or visit our factory/showroom Open Mon to Fri 9:30am-4:30pm

Please call for an appointment

hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

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homesinsideout

DELIGHTED TO BE BACK! Following strict safety guidelines, Susan Finch and the team at Love Cleaning are back in action, ensuring homes and businesses are sparkling clean

L

ove Cleaning is delighted to be back up and running once again providing the Ribble Valley with first class domestic and commercial cleaning services!

Heading up the highly-respected Love Cleaning team is founder Susan Finch: “We are all very positive and thrilled that the majority of our clients are back with us. We are extremely fortunate to have gained new business too,” enthuses Susan.

“We feel lucky to have bounced back so quickly.”

All Covid-19 qualified, following strict government guidelines, the Love Cleaning team are back on the road travelling throughout the Ribble

Valley working with clients who appreciate their extremely high standards.

Love Cleaning provides everything from super-efficient deep cleans and one-off cleans, to ironing and laundry services.

The bespoke nature of their

service and flexibility means they work alongside their client needs ensuring flexibility.

The team also works on luxury holiday lets and are renowned for their swift turnover without compromising on service quality.

Guaranteeing 100 per cent

satisfaction, Love Cleaning always aims to exceed expectations delivering sensational results!

Love Cleaning has a client base founded on customer recommendations – testament to the trusted team’s impeccable standards.

To experience the bespoke service Love Cleaning offers, contact Longridge-based Susan

Love Cleaning (Lancashire) Ltd 01772 367365 07850 262572 info@lovecleaninguk.co.uk lovecleaninguk.co.uk

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Made-to-measure cur tains from £95 Roman blinds from £105 Made-to-measure sofas & chairs Re-upholster y ser vice Mood boards & styling ser vice Free parking Visit our stunning showroom for furniture, home accessories, fabrics, feature wallpapers & Designers Guild paints. The interior design advice is free! Our trade prices are available to the public.

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At Ribble Valley Bathrooms we pride ourselves on our quality of service. As a family run company and with over 32 years experience, we maintain a passion for designing and installing exceptional beautiful and relaxing space where you can begin and end each day.

homesinsideout

Photography: Can Stock Photo Liane M

Photography: Can Stock Photo Hanna Mariah

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A GARDEN TO THRIVE IN… salvia, dahlia even ornamental veg such as swiss chard with its multi-coloured stems and leaves. For a more gentle, calm effect use cool, relaxing colours such as whites, blues and greens. Lavender, foxglove, hydrangea, delphinium and climbers that also provide height such as jasmine and honeysuckle. Plants and trees that change colour through the seasons also provide interest with blossoms and berries and leaves that turn to shades of gold, red and brown in the autumn.

Sensory gardens are great for helping to reduce anxiety and stress, providing a natural retreat to relax in and offering us a place that encourages wellbeing and mindfulness

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sensory garden is really just a collection of plants and materials with different textures, shapes, colours, scents and heights that are laid out in such a way to stimulate our senses through smell, sound, touch, taste and sight.

Adding visual interest to a garden can be easily achieved by being clever and selective with your planting. Use flowering perennials, layer plants at different heights, use screens or hedges to form backdrops and plant rows of the same species to elongate areas. You can also make sure your planting has the desired effect by using colour to provide focal points and ambience.

For stimulating, invigorating areas use hot, vibrant colours – reds, pinks and yellows.

Think sunflower, echinachea, marigold,

Changes in colour and appearance of materials like paved and pebble pathways when they get wet also add colour and visual appeal. Shapes are also important in a sensory garden, so try using materials like crazy paving and rough-cut flagstones.

You can also create interesting routes and pathways through the garden to promote a sense of discovery and orientation.

Movement catches the eye, so think about trees that wave in the wind such as willow or grasses that sway in the breeze. Water features provide wonderful focal points and also attract wildlife. Make sure you have a variety of plants that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies as well – lovely to watch on a summer’s afternoon.

Our general wellbeing is intrinsically linked to the natural world which is why Thrive – the gardening for health charity – has developed the Thrive Gardening Club, which features fortnightly tips on getting the most out of your garden, whatever your age or ability, and information on how gardening can keep you healthy and feeling good.

Photography: Can Stock Photo Aspenrock

Photography: Can Stock Photo Farina 5000

Photography: Can Stock Photo Irinavk

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Features include a unique auto-lock system to prevent the door from being lifted when in fully closed position and a safety brake mechanism to prevent the door from falling when in the fully open position, making your garage safe The Premier Garage Door range theat convenience andblends secure all times.of power operation with smooth, vertical opening and the benefits of insulation toAdditional provide the perfect solution for any garage. benefits compared to conventional Features include a unique auto-lock system to garage doors are thethereduction and prevent door from being in liftednoise when in fully closed position and a safety brake mechanism to heat loss whilstprevent freeing up the door fromvaluable falling when ingarage the fully open making your garage safe and secure at space. A vehicleposition, can be parked within 50mm all times.

Operated by a tubular motor complete with Additional benefits compared to conventional of the door inside or out without disrupting a manual override facility and controlled by garage doors are the reduction in noise and heat loss a comprehensive remote control system to whilst freeing up valuable garage space. A vehicle operation.

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HOT OFF THE PRESS! Burning Desire of Ramsbottom are delighted to announce that Chesneys, one of the UK’s leading

C

hesneys is internationally recognised as the leading luxury brand in its field and is the first port of call for architects, interior designers and private clients all over the world who are seeking the very best fireplaces, wood burning stoves and gas fire appliances.

Ben Armstrong, owner of Burning Desire, said: “Chesneys are definitely a sought-after brand by discerning customers. We feel that this is a great endorsement of our family business and the product range fits well with our other leading brands such as DRU, Dik Guerts, Spartherm, Clearview, Paragon, Lotus, Stovax/Gazco and the Everhot cooker range. We are designing and building a special Chesneys showroom to further enhance our constantly updated showrooms in Ramsbottom. Well worth a visit!”

The Chesneys range includes hand carved marble and stone fireplaces in contemporary, period, bespoke and antique styles. burningdesireuk.com

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

CHESNEYS ANOTHER REASON TO VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS! Visit Burning Desire Fireplace Centre: Unit 9, Cuba Industrial Estate, Bolton Road North, Stubbins, near Ramsbottom, Lancashire BL0 0NE

FREE PARKING ~ FREE SURVEYS ~ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Friendly and experienced advice on all aspects of: Fireplaces ~ Gas & Electric fires ~ Stoves ~ Installation

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homesinsideout Leaving her humble beginnings in the Australian outback, she became Bobby Broadhurst, a showgirl in the Far East in the 1920s.

In 1940s London, from a salon on Bond Street, she clothed the aristocracy and even the Queen Mother, as ‘French’ couturier Madame Pellier.

DESIGN ICON

Through the 1960s and 70s, back in her native Australia, from her studio in Sydney she created over 500 beautiful wallpaper and textile designs which were sought after all over the globe. Sadly, in 1977, Florence’s prolific period of design was brought to a tragic end when she was brutally murdered in her design studio in Sydney. Her murder remains unsolved to this day.

Florence left behind an extraordinary legacy – her archive. The designs reflect a colourful life, lived to the full, with wildly different chapters. Beautiful chinoiserie and Far Eastern influenced motifs sit alongside flamboyant florals, pretty botanicals, bold geometrics, intricate brocades, elaborate tapestries and softer scenic designs.

Florence Broadhurst – the incredible life and mysterious death of a design legend whose work lives on in interiors across the world

F

lorence Broadhurst was an extraordinary designer who lived an extraordinary life before her death in 1977. Florence left behind an archive of over 500 incredible designs which a London-based design studio is reinvigorating for the modern interior.

Charismatic, fearless, flamboyant and eccentric, Florence was a creative genius who lived an amazingly colourful life of self-reinvention. Changing her name, her appearance, even her voice, she travelled the world taking on an array of different personas.

With the trend for minimalism that dominated interiors over the past decade or so, sadly Florence’s work had disappeared from use in the UK. But, with the resurgence of colour and pattern in the interiors world and an increasing desire for authentic heritage products, Florence’s designs are

WE ARE

and look forward to welcoming you into our

S PAC I O U S S H OW R O O M

OPEN

All the furniture and accessories you need Visit the homeco.net for the latest updates!

Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 10am-5pm Private A4 Quarter.qxp_Layout 1 28/08/2019 16:28 bookings Page 1 also available High Corn Mill, Skipton, North Yorkshire. BD23 1NJ T: 01756 794999 E: info@thehomeco.net | W: www.thehomeco.net

WE ARE RECRUITING DELIVERY PEOPLE PLEASE TAKE THIS TARY COMPLIMEN COPY WITH YOU

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homesinsideout The geometrics comprise the trelliswork lattice of Pagoda and the cane motif of Octagonal Lattice where a design team has played with the scale of the design to create a large-scale bold version and a daintier small-scale companion.

With Florence’s love of layering patterns in mind, the fabric collection is curated to encourage layering of designs within the same space.

now as relevant as they were when she crafted them.

All the designs have originated from scans of Florence’s original silk screens, making them truly authentic representations of the patterns she crafted 50 years ago.

WALLPAPERS The wallpaper collection is a stunning compilation of 61 wallpapers across 12 designs. Like the archive, the collection is diverse with bold florals, pretty botanicals and exotic birds, lattices and oriental screens, geometrics and landscapes. The colourways are equally diverse with bold and bright, dark and moody and warm neutrals spanning the collection.

Florence was a fan of layering patterns.

Many of the wallpapers have ‘companions’ which can be used to beautiful effect in the same room – perhaps on different walls, on and around panels, or above and below a dado or picture rail.

The wallpapers are printed by skilled craftspeople using one of a number of different types of traditional printing presses, on paper sourced from managed renewable forests and with low VOC water-based inks. Through the use of traditional printing presses, many of the wallpapers have metallic and pearlescent finishes which enhance the designs and add a luxe feel in much the same way as Florence did herself.

VELVETS AND VELVET CUSHIONS Bold botanicals sit alongside geometric lattice and cane motifs in a collection of 23 fabrics across five designs, available by the metre and as a range of sumptuous cushions with coordinating piping.

Florence’s travels around the globe are evident in the botanical designs which include bold Japanese Floral, the ferns, flowers and palm fronds of Shadow Floral and the reeds, bulrushes and fluffy papyrus heads of Papyrus.

COTTONS AND COTTON CUSHIONS Japanese Floral is one of Florence’s best known and much-loved designs. The cotton collection champions this beautiful print in six colourways – navy, black, deep pink and grass green coordinate with the Japanese Floral wallpapers, whilst mustard and burnt orange add spicy hues.

The addition to the collection of Double Quarter Inch Stripe and the on-trend chevron design of Small Zig Zag, encourages homeowners to have fun layering the designs.

Available by the metre in two different fabrics – a smooth cotton that is well suited to drapery and a textured cotton well suited to upholstery – and as two sizes of cushion (40x40 and 50x50cm) with coordinated piping, the opportunities to be bold and have fun are limitless.

LAMPS Florence’s Clover Cane and Floral Spot designs lend a decidedly retro vibe to the collection of floor and table lamps.

Lampshades crafted from handmade buckram paper with a hand-rolled edge sit atop stunning flagon bases made from recycled glass with a vintage style fabric covered cord.

Available in three different sizes, the lamps are named in honour of three of Florence’s most treasured employees, Nerissa Bingle, Sally Fitzpatrick and Leonie Geyson. The tall Bingle and the short chunky Fitzpatrick are perfect floor lamps to add a statement glow whilst the oversized Geyson table lamp is perfect to add interest to a sideboard or writing desk.

The lampshades and bases can be mixed and matched, and the lampshades are also available to purchase without a base.

RUGS The stunning hand-tufted wool rugs are statement pieces that feel luxurious underfoot.

Florence’s iconic Japanese Floral design is available in a bold midnight blue or softer oyster, while the geometric Turnabouts design is available in striking monochrome.

In addition to two standard sizes, rugs can be made-to-order with bespoke measurements.

At the studio where Florence Broadhurst’s designs are brought to life, is a small team with a passion for wallpaper, textiles and all things interior and a mix of design and retail backgrounds.

Through the imaginative and modern interpretation of Florence’s work, the team is thrilled to be applying her designs to create an array of new products which are curated to be as diverse and eclectic as the archive itself.

CREDITS Photography: Holly Jolliffe Styling: Tanya Goodwin

florencebroadhurst.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

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INVEST IN YOUR

LIFEST YLE

W

hen it comes to improving your home, whether it’s new windows, doors, fascias or a conservatory or orangery, one independent and highly respected, Lancashire-based company has the solution.

Creative UPVC is based in Fulwood, Preston and specialises in supplying the highest quality UPVC products. With over 15 years’ experience within the industry, the company’s reputation for excellence and professionalism is known far and wide. With a clear understanding that any purchase is an investment in your home, they always endeavour to save their customers money without compromising on quality.

One way in which they maintain quality control is by employing their own team of highly skilled, time-served tradesmen, in order to directly co-ordinate builders, heating engineers, electricians, flooring and lighting experts on the projects they undertake, no matter the size.

Another way they ensure impeccable customer service is by cutting out the sales consultants. Instead of having to deal with a middle man, the person who helps design your project will deal with it all from

beginning to end. Effectively, he will manage the installation, ensuring everything runs as smoothly as possible and acting as your direct contact for any queries and information.

Not only does this result in a hassle-free project, it also means that Creative UPVC’s costs are reduced, so all of their products

Make your dream conservatory or luxury orangery a reality with a Fulwood company that’s renowned for impeccable quality and fantastic value and services come at a more affordable price!

And, as you would expect from such a company, a full insurance-backed 10-year guarantee comes as standard.

Creative UPVC realise that it is imperative that any project undertaken is carried out without compromise, especially as your new conservatory or orangery can transform the quality of your lifestyle. Whether the conservatory is to extend your kitchen, act as a new dining room, a second lounge or just somewhere for the kids to play whilst you watch TV, it will allow you a whole new way of living, and Creative UPVC has the solution.

To make an enquiry and to speak to one of Creative UPVC’s experts, simply call 01772 701010

Creative UPVC offer a 10-year guarantee on all products and are registered with the Safe Trader Scheme

WHAT THE CUSTOMERS SAY… Nick and Faye from the Ribble Valley were delighted with their new sun room, designed and created by Creative UPVC: “Our old conservatory looked lovely, but it was quite old and always cold. We needed the extra space, but we couldn’t use it. Creative UPVC designed and constructed the perfect sun room for us, which matched our home’s existing stonework.

They continually consulted with us to make sure we were happy and I cannot praise them enough. They were such tidy workers and totally unobtrusive.”

Creative UPVC 15 Kingsbarn Close Fulwood PR2 9LZ 01772 701010 / 07971 529211 www.creativeupvc.co.uk

LARGEST INDEPENDENT CARPET STORE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND

Padiham Carpet Mill

TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY RUGS IN STORE NOW OVER 500 ROLL ENDS OF CARPET OVER 250 ROLL ENDS OF VINYL 100’s OF RUGS TO VIEW & ORDER WITH FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY!

BOASTING A FANTASTIC 15,800 SQ FT SHOWROOM, YOU’RE SURE TO FIND EXACTLY WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR.

Visit us today… Unit 1 Wyre Street, Padiham, BB12 8DQ (opposite the new Tesco ) 01282 774157 www.padihamcarpets.co.uk Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5.30pm Saturday 9.30am – 5pm

LARGEST INDEPENDENT CARPET STORE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND

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homesinsideout

R E M M FU N U S Pass the Pigs has been a muchloved family game for years and now it has gone giant with in the garden!

P

ass the Pigs is Amazon’s number one travel game and has sold millions across the world – and now a giant version has been developed that can be used outdoors in the garden or in the park.

This super-size version will keep the family entertained and amused for hours. The giant inflatable pigs can bounce around the garden, house, beach or even the pool.

It’s Pass the Pigs like you’ve

never passed them before! Inflate your pair of porkers, throw them and see how they land. Will you get a ‘Leaning Jowler’, a ‘Mixed Combo’ or will you ‘Pig Out’?

Suitable for players from the age of four, and with an Amazon rating of 4.5, the giant Pass the Pigs game features two inflatable pigs, a rule book, score cards, two pencils, a carry bag, deflation rod and a vinyl plastic repair seal.

Featured on ITV’s This Morning, the inflatable pigs are used like dice. Take it in turns to throw the pigs and depending on the position in which they land, you get points. Tot up your score and the aim is to get to 100 but, get greedy and you could lose everything with the ‘Makin’ Bacon’ and ‘Pig Out’ positions!

Available at Amazon.co.uk RRP £14.99

From survey to after sales our AWA R D W I N N I N G team are here to ensure your full satisfaction is G UARA N T EED appliances all under one roof Finance facilities available

352-358 Newchurch Rd Kitchen House Market St Bacup OL13 0LD Ulverston LA12 7AH 01706 252122 01229 581828 www.rossendaleinteriors.net rireception@jjoplc.com /jjorossendaleinteriors

Units manufactured in-house by JJO our parent company so no supply issues

B O O K Y O U R FREE CO NS ULTAT I O N N OW

POWER YOUR WAY TO A PERFECT LAWN It’s all part of the service.”

There’s an ideal mower for every This commitment to customer service is what has kept the Websters’ business going lawn and this family business match, writes Kate Ford.

Photography: Roger Moore

T

he storms are hopefully behind us now and springtime is here.

Much loved and anticipated by gardeners everywhere, this is the season when the garden comes back to life, the grass is growing, and the lawnmower is once again called into action.

Calling into Mowerpower in St Annes recently, I noticed that amongst all the shiny new mowers and other garden machinery on display, were rows of lawnmowers waiting to be collected and returned to their owners. One of the many benefits of buying from this local, family business is the first class after-sales service.

“We only sell machines which we know we can get all the spare parts for,” says David Webster, who runs the business alongside his parents, Lynn and Richard.

“If a mower needs repairing or servicing, we’ll collect it from the customer and deliver it back again once the work has been done, usually within a week.

for 72 years. This is a fourth-generation family business, started as it was by Richard’s father and grandfather in 1948.

In addition to the original shop on Alexandria Drive in St Annes, Mowerpower has a large showroom on the A6 at Brock, between Preston and Garstang. They also have two workshops, in Blackpool and at Brock, where the services and repairs are carried out by five full-time mechanics.

The workshop element of the business is crucial because the Websters know that if a customer chooses the right mower for their lawn, they can expect it to last up to 20 years.

With such longevity, the repairs and servicing help to keep things running smoothly.

The team regularly visit customers at home to view and assess their lawns.

These free, no obligation visits enable the Mowerpower team to recommend exactly the right mower, to suit both the lawn and the individual using it. Customers are then invited to the showroom to see the machines and get a feel for their size and weight.

IF A MOWER NEEDS REPAIRING OR SERVICING, WE’LL COLLECT IT FROM THE CUSTOMER AND DELIVER IT BACK AGAIN Both showrooms are bursting with every kind of quality garden machine imaginable, from Countax ride-on mowers to Stihl hedge trimmers. The business has approved retailer status with all the top manufactures of garden equipment, including Hayter, Mountfield, ATCO, Stiga, Toro, Echo and Masport.

Alongside the gleaming, ride-on machines, they have walk-behind mowers in electric, petrol and cordless options.

This year sees the arrival of the first battery-powered ride-on mower from Weibang. An impressive machine, which benefits from rack and pinion steering and can mow for around two and a half hours on a full charge, it provides an excellent alternative to petrol machines for larger lawns.

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Every manufacturer is now expanding their range of battery powered machines.”

Another machine which is growing in popularity is the robotic lawn mower.

The Websters have been selling these for around 20 years but demand has really taken off this year. “We’ve had four orders already this week alone,” says Lynn.

CUSTOMERS RECEIVE EXCELLENT ADVICE AND SOUND PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE WHICH ENABLES THEM TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

“We’ve been selling battery powered mowers for many years, but this is our first ride-on with a battery,” says Lynn Webster, who goes on to describe the growing demand for this kind of machine.

“People now come in and ask us for battery powered mowers and other machinery, whereas in the past we had to tell them that these were available as an alternative to petrol and corded mowers.

“They’re such clever machines. Programme in details like the area of your lawn, which days and times you want it to be cut, and the robot will mow the grass for you.”

Hand-held equipment at Mowerpower includes hedge cutters, strimmers, chainsaws, leaf blowers and pressure washers, again all from leading brands. There’s also a range of traditional garden tools and chemicals.

As well as its loyal and ever-expanding domestic customer base, Mowerpower also supplies machinery and servicing to several commercial and community customers including schools, sport clubs,

churches, residential caravan parks and local authorities.

Lynn is in no doubt about what keeps customers returning time and again. “It comes down to our very personal approach and the after sales service we offer.

“Customers receive excellent advice and sound product knowledge which enables them to make the right choice and to buy a machine that will last a very long time.”

INTRODUCING THE NEW

iON 81 RC BATTERY RIDE-ON MOWER | Zero Emissions | Quiet & Simple Operation | Cruise Control | 190L Collector & Mulch Kit Included | Up to 2.5 hours Working Time | Compact Dimensions - only 85cm wide | Extremely Manoeuvrable

Available to view at both AVAILABLE TO VIEW AT branches of Mowerpower BOTH BRANCHES OF

Unit A, Tom Horns Yard, Garstang Road, Claughton-on-Brock, Nr Garstang, Lancashire, PR3 0RB Tel: 01995 643999

5

year

10 Alexandria Drive, St Annes, Lancashire, FY8 1NL Tel: 01253 722065

homeowner warranty

* subject to annual servicing

mowerpower.co.uk

www.weibang.co.uk

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homesinsideout

TIGER COLLECTION A combination of a rediscovered Chinese art and ancient folklore are the inspiration behind this unique collection of handcrafted cushions

M

ade to order, each cushion in the Mischievous Tiger collection from Ori Bespoke brings together the UNESCO-protected skill of Su embroidery with the legend of the tiger – said to be the king of beasts in Chinese mythology.

The tiger is regarded as one of the most powerful and ferocious creatures in Asian

culture, and as such, it is often depicted and embroidered on children’s hats, pillows and shoes to protect them from evil spirits.

Here, Ori Bespoke’s team of professional craftspeople have hand-sewn tiger-inspired motifs onto the eight-strong collection.

Handmade to order, there are six different designs available across five colours.

Each design is hand drawn by watercolour first, before being transferred onto a silk canvas and hand-embroidered by crafters all exceptionally skilled in Su embroidery.

Su embroidery is typified by elegant colours, neat edges and beautiful patterns.

Such is the refinement of Su embroidery, it can be difficult to tell it apart from a painting. In fact, most Su embroidery works

start life as an intricate watercolour painting, before being transferred onto fabric.

Pei Li, Ori Bespoke founder, said: “Bringing this ancient Chinese art form into the home has been a dream of mine.

“A cushion collection was a natural choice and combining the Asian folklore of the tiger with Su embroidery has created a stunning collection, giving homeowners plenty of choice when it comes to furnishing their property.”

Prices start from £96 oribespoke.com

Creative lighting for your home & business Showroom by appointment only Showroom address: 13 Cable Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9YW www.kok.lighting james@kok.lighting 01772 977 677 07540 372 615

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OUR SHOWROOM IS OPEN! At Gainsborough Flooring we’re thrilled to have reopened our showroom with all safety measures in place for customers who

C

ustomers at Gainsborough Flooring have been really excited about coming in and discussing their ideas and talking through numerous options with our team of experts.

Our new home service In parallel with our showroom opening, the team has developed a comprehensive Home Service. All you have to do is call and describe what you have in mind and we can then gather suitable samples and bring them to your home. Our team will be able to help develop your ideas and advise on which products will work best for the space you’re considering.

Whether you are looking for a luxurious traditional wool carpet for your bedroom, a quirky hardwearing carpet for your stairs or an innovative and versatile vinyl or wood

floor for your kitchen, we can source samples from a range of manufacturers such as Karndean, Amtico, Alternative Flooring, Brintons and Jacaranda.

So you’ll now be able to view just how a new carpet, tiling or wood floor product will look alongside all your interior furnishings before making a decision, and all from the comfort of your own home!

Once you’ve made your selection, we will install your new flooring ensuring all safety measures are adhered to while our fitting team is in your home.

solutions to help you achieve social distancing in a variety of environments using carpet tiles.

Each carpet tile measures 50cm, so you can easily mark out either one or two metres.

The tiles are available in a wide range of colours and styles so you can make sure they fit with the interior design of your space too.

You could use social distancing as an excuse to refurbish your working environment, or if you prefer, the tiles can be laid on top of your existing flooring and then be removed once all social distancing measures have been eased. The choice is yours!

This is a perfect way to help protect colleagues, employees and customers without having to use physical demarcation measures such as tape, chain links or bollards.You can also make it fun by introducing new styles and colours to your working environment.

For more details about our Home Service or our commercial environment options please call Vicky at Gainsborough Flooring on 01772 250682 or pop along to our showroom, we’d be delighted to see you

Helping you social distance in your work environment We have some fantastic social distancing solutions for businesses and commercial environments as well as educational establishments.

Manufacturers such as Burmatex and Heckmondwike have come up with clever

Full details of the safety measure we have in place can be viewed on our website: 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

MULTI AWARD WINNER - UK RETAIL ART GALLERY OF THE YEAR

An exquisite collection of rare original paintings by the late Appley Bridge artist are on show in the gallery now. Do not miss the opportunity to view the works of the artist described as a ‘forgotten Twentieth Century Master’ by author Michael Howard.

SPECIALISTS IN COLLECTABLE ORIGINAL PAINTINGS, LIMITED EDITION PRINTS AND SCULPTURE

BY LEADING NORTHERN AND INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS Hepplestones Fine Art Ltd Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5PA.

V BY VERY STRAW HAT £28 very.co.uk

WHITESANDS EMBROIDERY SHORTS £49 crewclothing.co.uk

BARBOUR SUMMER SHIRTS STARTING FROM £59.95 kenvarey.co.uk

SEABORD DENIM DRESS COLOUR MID WASH WAS £99.95 NOW £79 kenvarey.co.uk

HERE COMES SUMMER Cool cottons and crisp linens are perfect for relaxed, sunny days spent out in the fresh air BARBOUR OTTERBURN SWEATSHIRT WAS £54.95 NOW £39 kenvarey.co.uk

BARBOUR INTERNATIONAL STEVE MCQUEEN DAMPER SPORTS CAP £24.95 barbour.com

LAYLA LINEN JACKET £75 whitestuff.com RAINBOW GLITTER STRIPE WHITE T-SHIRT £25 oliverbonas.com

ZAVI POLO SHIRT £75 shop-zavi.com

BARBOUR HIGHLAND CHECK SHIRT MERLOT £64.95 Ken Varey Town and Country Wear 2-4 New Market Street ClitheroeBB7 2JW 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk

RAINBOW STRIPE TRAINERS £195 paulsmith.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

POLICE LEWIS HAMILTON SPLA26 SUNGLASSES £249 thespectaclefactory.com

S UP ER COO L

CHLOE ROSIE FLOWER SUNGLASSES £299 The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Row Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213 thespectaclefactory.com

When the temperatures start to rise keep your cool with these stylish sunglasses

JOHNNY SKULL SUNGLASSES £179 thomassabo.com

DUNE LONDON GOCEAN SUNGLASSES £35 dunelondon.com ANGLED PINK TORT SUNGLASSES £28 oliverbonas.com

JACK BLACK SQUARE SUNGLASSES £169 thomassabo.com

ROUND TORTOISESHELL POLARISED SUNGLASSES £19 marksandspencer.com

HARRY BLACK ROUND SUNGLASSES £12 burton.co.uk

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

JACK BEIGE SQUARE SUNGLASSES £169 thomassabo.com

fashion

SOPHISTICATED SIM PL I CI T Y Watch manufacturer Patek Philippe produces extraordinary timepieces that are as efficient as they are elegant

T

he annual calendar mechanism, patented by Patek Philippe in 1996, is an illustration of one of the manufacturer’s ruling principles – any complication, no matter how sophisticated, must be easy to use.

The mechanism reduced the gap between the simplicity of the plain calendar (which needs adjusting five times a year) and the sophistication of the perpetual calendar (able to account for the lengths of all months, including leap years). On an annual calendar, the month, date and day of the week are displayed correctly for months with both 30 and 31 days, only requiring correction once a year on 1st March. The ease of use of this complication conceals great technical complexity.

Practical, readable and elegant, the annual calendar is acknowledged as a classic. It is offered in a variety of interpretations, each combining elegant lines, noble materials and lavish attention to finish.

A good example is the Ladies’ Annual Calendar Ref. 4948R. The rose gold case is set with 347 diamonds and features a stunning white Balinese mother-of-pearl dial, with gold applied numerals. It is the epitome of feminine finesse.

THE ROSE GOLD CASE IS SET WITH 347 DIAMONDS AND FEATURES A STUNNING WHITE BALINESE MOTHER-OF-PEARL DIAL

The compact 38mm case accommodates the self-winding mechanical movement, calibre 324 S QA LU, enriched by an ultra-precise moon phase, which takes 122 years to deviate from the lunar cycle by one day. The day and the month are displayed on central subsidiary dials at 10 and two o’clock, with the moon phases and date aperture placed at six o’clock.

PATEK PHILIPPE UPHOLDS A TRADITION IN COMPLICATIONS THAT ARE USEFUL IN EVERYDAY SITUATIONS This extraordinary timepiece, with its technical sophistication and fetching aesthetics, is worn on a matte pearly white hand-stitched alligator strap with a prong buckle in rose gold that is adorned with a further complement of 27 diamonds.

Patek Philippe upholds a tradition in complications that are useful in everyday situations, the annual calendar represents this exquisitely – it is an ingenious complication that is easy to operate.

To find out more about this collection and the Ref. 4948R please visit Patek Philippe’s authorised retailer, Leonard Dews in-store, or online: leonarddews.co.uk

Leonard Dews 18 Church Street Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1EW 01253 754974 leonarddews.co.uk

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ELEMIS TOTAL GLOW BRONZING BODY LOTION £37.50 Luxurious, gradual tan body lotion to instantly moisturise skin and subtly build an even, natural looking tan. elemis.com

ISLE OF PARADISE LIGHT SELF-TANNING WATER £18.95 This self-tan infused water mists onto skin, with colour correcting actives plus coconut, chia seed and avocado oils for an easy, hydrating spritz. theisleofparadise.com

GOLDEN GLOW With these luxurious tanning products you can achieve a natural sun-kissed glow all year round

JAMES READ SLEEP MASK TAN FACE £25 Enriched with skin beautifying ingredients to deliver a subtle, golden glow by morning. jamesreadtan.com

SKINNY TAN AFTER GLOW GLOSS £9.99 A hydrating formula that maintains skin’s healthy moisture levels, whilst delivering an enviable THIS WORKS PERFECT LEGS GRADUAL TAN £38 A streak-free tanning serum to soothe, smooth and enhance limbs, gradually building a natural-looking tan with a hint of subtle shimmer. thisworks.com

BONDI SANDS SELF TAN ERASER £14.99 Revolutionary self tan eraser technology effectively removes self tan without harmful ingredients and This unique cleansing formula also moisturises and leaves the skin silky smooth. bondisands.co.uk

skinnytan.co.uk

SISLEY SELF TANNING HYDRATING FACIAL SKIN CARE £97 the complexion, prolongs your tan and perfects

TAN LUXE SUPER GLOW £35

skin all year round. sisley-paris.com

hyaluronic, superfood self-tan serum. tan-luxe.com

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

MODELCO SELF-TAN BACK APPLICATOR £8.99 This custom-designed, velvety-smooth applicator allows you to protecting your hands from unwanted stains. amazon.co.uk

DECLEOR SUPER SIZE NEROLI BIGARADE HYDRATING GRADUAL TAN LOTION £45 Perfect for daily moisturisation and those looking for a natural sun-kissed glow. decleor.co.uk

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

D

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. “And lockdown snacking has done nothing to help us keep our waistlines in check.

“As a doctor, I’m well aware of the potential 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 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 FREE - BESTSELLING CARB & CALORIE COUNTER BOOK for all DiscoverLight Weight Loss Programme Patients

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

www.discoverlaser.co.uk

’S S N S E M LO O T W H IN EIG S W RT & E P H E X A LT HE

AN AWARD-WINNING AESTHETICS, HEALTH & WELLNESS CLINIC

in the heart of Clitheroe

O

ur team provides medical cosmetic treatments, alongside weight loss, women’s health and varicose vein services. Led by consultant doctor Grant McKeating, RejuvaMed Skin Clinic & Vein Centre offers its patients the latest, safest and most advanced technologies and treatments in a COVID-secure outpatient environment.

We offer consultations for weight loss programmes which include the Elipse gastric balloon pill (no surgery or endoscopy required) and weekly prescription medication. You can expect to lose 2 - 2.5 stone over 6 months.

Say goodbye to varicose veins with Venaseal “superglue” treatment with minimal recovery time.

Some of our most popular treatments include: •

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

•

Radiofrequency removal of varicose veins

•

The Elipse gastric balloon pill programme for weight loss

•

Non surgical face lifts

Variscose vein results;

3D-Vjuve intimate laser rejuvenation for women can change your life and banish incontinence without surgery.

BEFORE

AFTER

For a more confident you...

Please call 01200 538668 or visit our websites www.rejuvamed.co.uk or www.rejuvamedveincentre.co.uk Holmes Cottage, Woone Lane, Clitheroe BB7 1BG

health&beauty

REDISCOVER YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS SAFELY

Emma Pearce, founder and director of EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd, has put strong safety measures in place ready to welcome her clients back for the for which she is renowned

E

MA Skin Aesthetics is pleased to announce that their industryleading treatments are available from 13th July 2020.

Founder Emma Pearce explains: “The clinic is a regulated medical environment, which allows EMA to now provide facial rejuvenation and skin corrective treatments as these treatments are for healthcare reasons which includes anti-ageing. All treatments at EMA are under a clinical healthcare assessment by their Registered General Nurse, which means a full clinical assessment including Covid screening will be conducted prior to starting any treatment.”

The EMA clinic has undergone a full revamp during lockdown.

“We have worked extremely hard, putting strong measures in place to keep our clients safe upon reopening. The health, wellbeing and satisfaction of

our clients is of the utmost importance to us,” says Emma.

Renowned for the highest level of customer care as well as amazing results, Emma is dedicated to putting her clients at ease.

The reopening has been eagerly awaited by Emma’s loyal clients.

As an aesthetic skin specialist with the most advanced training from around the world and over 18 years’ experience, Emma specialises in rediscovering clients’ youthful looks with non-invasive, scientifically proven technology

including the most popular Plasma Pen. Emma’s clients turn to her for the anti-ageing results and skin confidence they have been waiting for. “You don’t need to look your age no matter how old you are – but it is important to invest in the right treatment with the right professional,” says Emma. “Post-lockdown, the top skin complaints have been sagging skin, loss of brightness as well as ageing by sun damage. Plasma Pen is perfect to correct this.

“Plasma Pen is non-invasive,

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tightening the skin for results lasting up to three years,” Emma explains. “By rebuilding and strengthening the skin’s scaffolding, it restores skin to how it was in youthful years, stimulating collagen and elastin production for dramatic results which improve as the weeks go by.”

Emma knows exactly which areas to target to deliver the very best results for each client.

“I have carried out many corrective treatments where clients have been elsewhere in inexperienced hands. Experience, care, extensive knowledge and the highest expertise is key to ensuring exceptional results are achieved for all my clients.

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STAYING CONNECTED DIY, gardening, making crafts or playing an

Coronavirus has hit many hard. From having to be in complete instrument. There are lots of things you isolation to just feeling overwhelmed with the whole situation, can do. It also helps us switch off and just think about the moment. these unprecedented times have made us all feel uneasy

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ut the main thing to know is that you are not alone, and it is natural to feel down. However, there are things that you can do to help.

Staying connected with friends and family is really important. Whilst we might not have been able to physically see them, there are still ways to keep in touch. The digital age has become a necessity and for many, that doesn’t come easy. Several charities and community organizations have donated iPad to those on their own and shown them how to get online, use Zoom, social media and video calls. Many Places of Worship have also opted for online services which means people can still feel involved in their local community. Use it as an opportunity to catch up with old friends, they will welcome a chat just as much as you will.

Keeping active is a must. If possible, go for a walk outside. Being with nature can help improve your mood, your mental and physical wellbeing and reduce feelings of stress or anger, making you feel more relaxed.

IT ALSO HELPS US SWITCH OFF AND JUST THINK ABOUT THE MOMENT There are also many fitness instructors who are running yoga and Pilates classes online or through Zoom so you can still be part of a class. Skipping is also a good form of exercise to take up. Easy to do at home and you can build up your skips.

Try something new. We often don’t have the time to take up a hobby so why not give it a go. Knitting, colouring in, painting,

Take a break from the news. While we want to hear what’s going on in the world, bad news and negativity is not good for us and can bring on anxiety. Try to steer conversations away from what is happening and talk about more positive things.

Eat healthily. While restaurants and take-aways have been shut, more people have taken up home cooking. Not only is it better for us, but it’s something the whole family can get involved in, especially children who will learn new skills.

Lastly, get some sleep. Try and go to bed at the same time. Read a book, meditate or listen to a sleep app to help you nod off.

Just getting a full night’s sleep will mean you feel more refreshed.

Remember to talk about how you are feeling, some people will struggle more than others and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

Stay connected and keep positive.

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WE’VE MISSED YOU… We’ve missed your smiles and your ‘hellooooos’ as you open our door, the shared catch-ups on how the week has been – the happy moments and, yes, sometimes the sad.

We’ve missed your flying visits and the times you stay a while longer, relax and browse.

You’re not ‘just’ customers and melt is not ‘just’ a shop. We’re old friends and we’re so happy to be back.

We have glorious new ranges for the summer and also a WELCOME B ACK C AN D L E for every purchase as a thank-you gift from us!

It just remains to say thank-you so much for all your support throughout lockdown.

Your mail orders and lovely messages have kept a smile on our faces and kept us mighty busy.

Rest assured all the necessary measures are in place to help you keep safe when you visit, as you would expect.

W IN N E R VBA Small Business Award 2018 Independent Retailer 2017 Artisan Business 2017

melt Backridge Farm Twitter Lane Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 sales@themeltco.com www.themeltco.com /meltcandles themeltco @meltcandles Opening times: Mon-Sat 10-5pm, Sun 12-4.30

STILL A GOOD WALK Fell-walker Andrew Stachulski follows in the footsteps of a Times correspondent who, seven years ago, discovered the delights of the Forest of Bowland. Photography: Helen Shaw

Photography: George Green @ Shutterstock

CHIPPING:

ahead, with lovely retrospective views of Longridge Fell, Pendle and the Loud and Hodder valleys. In medieval days, Leagram was one of the old Bowland estates while Chipping, which possibly dates from as early as 600AD, was outside Bowland. Place names here bear witness to those times, such as ‘lawn’ (or ‘laund’ at nearby Whitewell) which means an area of royal deer park.

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eaders of The Times will be aware of the feature ‘A Good Walk’, appearing in the Weekend section of the Saturday editions. It took the paper a long time to discover the Forest of Bowland, but they gave us a Bowland classic in April 2013 with a description of the fine circuit of Parlick Pike and Fair Snape Fell from Chipping.

My walk is a variation-in reverse – with a built-in longer alternative that allows you to explore more of this splendid corner of Bowland.

From Chipping, where there is plenty of parking space and a good choice of refreshments, leave the village by the Clitheroe road and turn left at the junction by the war memorial. After a few minutes, turn left into the driveway of Leagram Hall and climb through the delightful parkland

Turn left at nearby Chipping Lawn Farm, following the clear farm track, eventually dipping to a pleasant stream and rising again to a minor road. Cross directly, and beyond Saddle End Farm climb steadily up the long shoulder of Saddle Fell, one of the fine ridges of Fair Snape. The panorama gets better and better, but don’t underestimate Saddle Fell in mist – a map and compass may well be required! The track remains generally well defined. Once on the plateau, soon over the 1500 ft contour, watch for a junction of fences with the true summit of Fair Snape (1707 ft) immediately north

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Photography: George Green @ Shutterstock

east. Though not a distinguished summit in itself, it offers a great prospect of the heart of Bowland fells and the Three Peaks area when clear.

Here The Times route keeps you close to the fence, going south west and later south east, bypassing the west summit of Fair Snape and approaching Parlick Pike more directly. I recommend aiming for the west summit – there is a faint tread and the general direction is just west of south west for about half a mile. There is a fine four-way stone shelter offering protection from the elements, a big loose cairn which may or may not sport a wooden pole (Paddy’s Pole) and a nearby trig point. The view of the Fylde coast including Blackpool is most impressive – further north you can pick out the Heysham power station, a large section of Morecambe Bay and an inspiring sweep of Lake District peaks with Black Combe prominent above Barrow.

From the west summit, follow a track south east, faint initially, soon joining the classic, graceful arc of a ridge which links Fair Snape and Parlick. An interesting, longer way down can be found by taking a zigzag path down the steep south west flank of Fair Snape which leaves our main route in a few hundred yards. This brings you down to Higher Fair Snape Farm, from where you can follow a series of field paths passing close to Blindhurst and turning the south flank of Parlick. Eventually you reach a road junction below Fell Foot and rejoin the main route.

On the main route, the ridge is easy to follow but a delight.You climb gently from a slight dip in the ridge and soon reach Parlick Pike summit. The descent to Fell Foot is very steep, and may be slippery,

but the views ahead remain excellent with Pendle, just south of east, now dominant.

You can lessen the gradient by taking a right to left zigzag, in either case soon reaching Fell Foot, a popular location for hang gliders, often breezy and exposed.

From here, you may simply follow the generally quiet country lanes back to Chipping via Fish House Lane or follow The Times route and reach the same point via field paths. Beyond Fish House, it’s easy going, eventually passing the neat cluster of houses at Old Hive and entering Chipping by the lane passing St Bartholomew’s Church, which you should certainly visit if you have time. All in all, a demanding but most satisfying circuit of about eight miles (main route) with excellent views and plenty of interest all through.

You can reflect on your achievement wandering through the village, with its narrow, 17th century centre and unique character, making a fitting end to your day.

Readers may also want to see ‘A Bowland Sketchbook’ by A Wainwright (Westmorland Gazette 1981) which contains a number of fine illustrations of the Chipping area in Wainwright’s inimitable style

Andrew Stachulski is joint author with Helen Shaw of ‘The Forest of Bowland’, published

by Merlin Unwin at £14.99. Helen has also written ‘The Pennines’ and ‘Land’s End to John O’Groats’ also published by Merlin Unwin

Enjoy...

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through these issues, or through separation – potentially being the best solution for the family in the long run.

Prior to the pandemic, over half of adults in the UK didn’t have a valid Will, meaning, should the worst happen, their families may not be provided for in the way they would have wished. Lockdown has given many people time to take stock and assess things which have perhaps been neglected in the past, including the drafting of Wills. Whether you haven’t got round to writing a Will or your circumstances have changed since you last had one written – for example, you may have got married or had children, so now is a good time to make sure these things are up to date.

For household finances, you may be unexpectedly impacted by job losses or wage reductions. It is important that you

TAKING STOCK AND MOVING FORWARD

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It’s positive to see life beginning to move forward again after slowing down, or in many cases, coming to a halt as the coronavirus pandemic gripped the UK. Ian Liddle, Partner at Farleys Solicitors explains how this has affected people both personally and professionally

hings have undoubtedly been tough, but the lockdown has given us an opportunity to take stock and reassess where we are and where we are going.

At Farleys we have seen a change of perspective from many of our clients on both an individual and business basis.

Despite the initial shock to the residential property market, three months at home has led many homeowners to reconsider their property needs, with many concluding that they are ready for a change. The increase in home working has also given others the push to finally make that move out to the countryside, with less need to be in the office full-time.

A lot of people have also decided that now is a good time to invest in property, with bricks and mortar often considered to be a safer asset class in unstable times.

It is also a sad fact that many months in isolation with significant others have pushed some couples to breaking point, considering divorce and separation. Issues which may have been bubbling under the surface have been exacerbated by the stress and uncertainty of the lockdown. Moving forward, however, this could be viewed as a fresh start, whether through mediation, finding a way to work

don’t bury your head in the sand – seek professional advice if debts are getting too much to manage. There is help out there, don’t be reluctant to take advantage of it.

From a business perspective, there are many things business owners will need to consider in the coming months, from employment matters with regards to staff returning from furlough, to commercial contracts and disputes arising as a result of the pandemic.

There will also be opportunities for business owners to refocus where necessary with consideration being given to restructuring and future-proofing.

As a full-service law firm, our teams at Farleys can help with the scenarios mentioned above and more. We have been supporting the Lancashire community for over 60 years and have continued to do so safely throughout the pandemic.

To speak to an expert today call 01254 368040 email: info@farleys.com or visit: farleys.com

MAKING A F DIFFERENCE EVERY DAY If you, or a family member, needs reliable, trustworthy care, especially in the current Covid-19 pandemic, Right at Home are the experts you can turn to for the highest quality support, writes Sarah Varley

Photography: Kirsten Platt

or those who would like a bit of support living happily and independently at home, through to people with very complex or specialised conditions, Right at Home can provide the ideal solution.

Situated in the old Wilpshire Post Office on Whalley Road, Right at Home has established a reputation for going the extra mile to support their clients working closely with families and other healthcare professionals and keeping dignity and respect at the heart of their approach.

Right at Home [East Lancashire & Ribble Valley] is part of the Right at Home UK network, one of the UK’s leading homecare providers. After a successful career in accountancy and HR, owner and Managing Director Julie Foote established the first Right at Home office here in East Lancashire nine years ago, after seeing a dear friend struggling to find a quality care company the family could trust. She realised how outstanding quality care can really change the lives of not only the clients but their families too.

WE ARE INCREDIBLY PROUD OF OUR CARE TEAMS AND THE VITAL ROLE THEY PLAY IN SUPPORTING THOSE WHO NEED US MOST Julie’s deputy, Registered Manager Elsa Hastings, has been with the company since it opened and has a wealth of experience in social care. Both she and Julie agree that while establishing the business has taken a huge amount of hard work and dedication, the rewards that come from helping people

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Right at Home (East Lancashire and Ribble Valley) currently has an impressive maximum recommendation score on homecare.co.uk* of 10 out of 10, based on the homecare provider’s reviews from the people they care for, their friends and relatives. *Homecare.co.uk is the UK’s leading care review website

for a living make it well worthwhile.

Elsa says: “If you are shielding, the safest place is Right at Home! Our infection control procedures are strict in order to keep our clients and staff safe and so far none of our clients have had symptoms of coronavirus.”

THEY ARE DOING AN EXCEPTIONAL JOB DURING THESE CHALLENGING TIMES TO KEEP CLIENTS SAFE, CONNECTED AND SUPPORTED All Right at Home staff undergo extensive training, including specialist courses for conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and most have been with the company for several years. Their services include physical assistance, all aspects of personal care including washing and dressing, medication reminders, meal preparation, shopping, housework, laundry, transport and accompanying clients to appointments or on trips out providing companionship.

Live-in care means one of Right at Home’s professional and trusted care-givers will live with your loved one in their own home, allowing them to isolate safely whilst receiving the one-to-one personalised care and companionship they need, day or night.

IF YOU ARE SHIELDING, THE SAFEST PLACE IS RIGHT AT HOME! For many families, particularly those living far away, live-in care is the best option for peace of mind that their loved one is safe and supported at home, particularly during the coronavirus outbreak, with movement

Julie is a Dementia Champion and has planned a full programme of events for when shielding restrictions allow including dementia cinema trips.

As well as providing hourly homecare services, the company offers full time livein care, a great alternative to moving into a care home. Live-in care enables clients to continue living in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of their own home with a care-giver available to assist them with their usual daily routine.

Rated as Good with ‘outstanding responsiveness’ at their last CQC inspection.

Right at Home (East Lancashire and Ribble Valley) is registered, and therefore licensed to provide services, with the Care Quality Commission.

restricted and social distancing in place.

“We are incredibly proud of our care teams and the vital role they play in supporting those who need us most in our local community,” Julie says. “Small things such as carers taking iPads and mobile phones to set up an internet chat with family members, can make such a difference. They are doing an exceptional job during these challenging times to keep clients safe, connected and supported in their own homes.”

Get in touch today to find out how the Right at Home team can support you or your loved one

Right at Home (East Lancashire and Ribble Valley) 15 Whalley Road Wilpshire, Blackburn BB1 9LQ 01254 658899 01200 760730 rightathomeribblevalley.com TM

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lifestyle There’s plenty to explore. Meander through the streets and you’re guaranteed to find a good place to eat or a boutique to take home a new item or two for your wardrobe.

New York, New York, so good they named it twice. Make sure you pack your walking shoes, as it’s the best way of getting around and seeing the sights. New York has plenty of culture. Here you can visit some of the world’s best museums and art galleries. Take in Times Square or explore the Empire State Building, a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan.

A visit to the Grand Central Terminal is a must as is the Statue of Liberty.

Paris is not only known as the city of romance but the capital of fashion. A lot

TRAVEL IN STYLE With travel restrictions easing, there’s lots to look forward to.

We take a look what it’s like to visit the fashion cities of the world

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something for everyone. You can take a culinary journey around the world with some of London’s diverse restaurants or enjoy a leisurely cruise down the River Thames.

There’s a range of accommodation – the only difficult part is deciding what you want to see first. For more information visitlondon.com.

ondon, Milan, New York and Paris are known as the global fashion capitals of the 21st century, but what is it that makes them the most popular places to visit on a city break?

London attracts visitors from all over the world. With its historical buildings and modern structures, its shopping and sport, museums and attractions, it really does have

Milan oozes style and sophistication.

It’s best to avoid visiting in August as it can be unbearably hot. It’s also a time when many locals go on their holidays so plan your holiday carefully.

It has an abundance of beautiful buildings and some of the world’s finest architects have contributed to the city, but it’s probably best known for its fashion. It’s a magnet for designers, artists, photographers and models.

of the major French fashion brands, such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dior have their headquarters here.You may want to dress more formally in Paris to fit in with the locals.

For sight-seeing, there’s also an abundance of attractions from the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe.

The café culture in Paris is also second to none. At the heart of both the social and culinary life in the French capital, the popularity of pavement cafes is world renowned. It’s a chance to relax and simply watch the world go by.

If you’re visiting any of the above cities for fashion weeks, these are generally held in February and September so plenty of time to get planning for 2021!

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HOME TRUTHS

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hile Covid is still with us there is light at the end of the tunnel. Things are now re-opening and we can witness the first signs of a ‘new normal’. Like many of you I clapped the heroic work of the NHS and other key workers, who were vital to being where we are today. I thank you once again.

We also remember those who are no longer with us and while the numbers of deaths are way down on the peak, each death is a tragedy.

In Parliament we have had to adapt. Initially there were very few of us physically working. New TV screens beamed MPs into the chamber from all parts of the UK and, to my surprise, it worked rather well.

Back in Pendleton, walking, running, cycling and taking the dog out was the order of the day, sometimes taking a bag with me to

pick up the ghastly litter that seemed to be everywhere. I’m delighted to get behind the Daily Mail’s campaign to clean Britain up after lockdown.

The village did manage to celebrate VE day in a socially distanced way and this was the last time we all raised a glass with much loved villager Tony Ormiston. He passed away some days later – he will be sorely missed.

I also want to pay tribute to the workers who braved lockdown to ensure that we had services including supermarket and other essential providers. You were real champions!

As the Ribble Valley opened up I was the first to have my haircut at The Men’s Room in Whalley. It is a brilliant new barber’s shop and I’d like to thank Joseph, the owner, who opened at 7.45am to give me the haircut of my life!

I witnessed the Swan with Two Necks re-open and it was good to

MP Nigel Evans asks everyone in the Ribble Valley to enthusiastically support their local businesses as the ‘new normal’ takes shape

see that first pint poured from the tap. I know Steve and Christine were delighted to see so many of their friends turn up to support them.

I would also like to thank the local skilled trades people who turned up to do work on my garden and house – I hope that many people will look at the services that are available on their own doorstep and support them.

But there are some businesses still not open and I do hope the green light will soon be given. They too will need our support.

Just think how important the wedding industry is to our area.

Like many others I have become a master of the virtual meeting, and again I am amazed how well that went when I spoke with friends in Australia and the USA. I really believe that many people will decide that hours spent travelling to meetings may well be better spent using the amazing technology that we have relied on during the past weeks!

Please visit our website for details of upcoming wedding fairs and private viewings.

www.dreamvenues.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Beth Alderson, David Scholes, Mike Plunkett, Alexandra Holt, Nick English, Stella Photography, Suzy Wimbourne, Kerry Woods.

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Building Champions

gamecourts.co.uk Game Courts represent a family inspired lifestyle choice.

Designed and engineered for professional and recreational play in any outdoor environment. Safety and longevity are key features of Sport Court Powergame surface, with test results rating it the safest court system in the world.

This is about more than just putting iPhones, ipads and games consoles away. This is about building a place where your family can both play and train together.

• Know where your kids are and get to know their friends • Let us design a game court to fit your family and your budget • Tell us which sports you play; we’ll design the right court for you • Spend time playing instead of gardening with a low-maintenance game court • Accelerate your childs sport development and promote healthy lifestyle

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LOCKDOWN AND DIVORCE We are living through an extraordinary time, which is putting unique pressures on relationships. Existing relationship issues Sarah Robson

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s lockdown eases some couples will be faced with decisions as to the future of their relationship.

A recent study conducted by Relate found that almost a quarter of those surveyed who have a partner say the current circumstances are placing pressure on their relationship.

It isn’t unusual for family lawyers to experience an increase in divorce enquiries after couples have spent prolonged periods of time together, for example after Christmas or in September. It is anticipated that as lockdown eases there will be a similar spike.

As such it may be advisable to seek legal advice now. Divorce Petitions can still be issued at Court in the usual way, but the process is taking longer. Obtaining legal advice at an early stage is always advisable.

Your financial circumstances may have been impacted by the pandemic – the effects can be far-reaching. Starting the divorce process now might ensure that you do not face further delay as the lockdown eases further still.

The Court system is experiencing delays generally in the processing of documents but we can advise you along the way.

Forbes Solicitors are still taking on new clients to provide legal advice during these difficult times. We are conducting all appointments remotely, usually by telephone, but are maintaining the same standards of service as during ordinary times.

The Family Courts are particularly stretched.

They are adapting to the remote working

environment. However, many cases are being adjourned if they are unable to be dealt with remotely. As such financial cases may take longer to be concluded. Once lockdown eases there may be a backlog of such cases meaning further delay.

THERE ARE ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO RESOLVE FINANCIAL MATTERS, INCLUDING MEDIATION, PRIVATE COURT HEARINGS AND ARBITRATION As well as the traditional route there are alternative options available to resolve financial matters, including mediation, private Court hearings and arbitration.

As such if there are financial issues that need resolving, it may be that rather than having a lengthy Court process, the matter can be resolved in a different way, saving costs and time.

Covid-19, and the impact of it, may have affected your financial circumstances – if you have an existing settlement, or are contemplating reaching an agreement, you may need to take legal advice given the change of circumstances. Investments and pensions may have been impacted.

The ability to obtain a mortgage may also be an issue, especially if your employment or income has been affected. Business owners may also have seen a decline in the value of

their business. Selling the family home is often a consideration during separation and divorce and the housing market has already been impacted by the lockdown so further consideration will need to be given to housing both parties and the children.

Many couples who have been through the Court process already, could be affected by a change of circumstances. If you have a Spousal Maintenance Order you may not be able to meet the repayments, this is a worry for the recipient and the payer. Whilst the Court has the power to vary such orders it may be more advisable to try and reach a compromise with your former partner until your circumstances improve. Similarly, for child maintenance payments there may need to be some compromise. Those with School Fees Orders could be advised to speak with the school directly regarding any difficulties that are arising.

The overall impact of Covid-19 is far reaching.

However, our experienced divorce lawyers can assist during this process and provide you with legal advice as you navigate a change of circumstances at this difficult time.

For information please contact Sarah Robson, Family Solicitor by email at: sarah.robson@ forbessolicitors.co.uk or call on 01772 220 022 forbessolicitors.co.uk

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

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01254 580000

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CHARITY F O C U S Live Ribble Valley takes a look at the many and varied charity projects that are taking place in towns and villages across the region If you have any charity news please contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

CHEQUE PRESENTATION A giant cheque was presented to pupils, staff and parents from Barrow Primary School and Friends of Barrow School thanks to pre-lockdown fundraising efforts by The Eagle at Barrow. Keen to support the local primary school, The Eagle made its first donation of £273 raised by donating 50p from every sausage meal sold. A specially created ‘sausage-ometer’ was made to show just how much has been raised so far towards their £500 target. Mrs Jannette Halstead, Assistant Head at Barrow Primary School said: “We are truly thankful to the Eagle at Barrow for pledging their support in raising vital funds that really will support the school and the education of the local community.”

FOOD DONATION Blackburn Rovers, working alongside catering partner Sodexo, donated matchday food to two charities following the lockdown postponement of their championship fixture against Bristol City. The club and Sodexo

arranged for the food, which would otherwise have gone to waste to go to the Salvation Army Bramwell Lifehouse and the Blackburn with Darwen Foyer, which provides accommodation for those in need.

TWENTY CHALLENGES

LEGEND’S LEGACY

A retired physiotherapist from Samlesbury has embarked on 20 unique challenges to complete during 2020, to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. Keen golfer Catherine Seed, the lady captain at Wilpshire Golf Club has selected Brain Tumour Research as her charity for the year. Cathy originally set out to play 20 rounds of golf in 20 days during 2020. But she soon decided to set her sights higher: “I now have a list of 20 pledges, which I am hoping to gradually work my way through.

They include baking 20 cakes for charity, doing 20 walks in the Lake District and losing 20lbs in weight.” Other challenges Cathy has set herself include growing 20 tomatoes, reading 20 books and going on 20 20-mile bike rides.

Family and friends of showbiz legend Joe Longthorne MBE are gifting more than £880 to Rosemere Cancer Foundation for the charity to spend on making patient areas at Rosemere Cancer Centre, at the Royal Preston Hospital, more comfortable and relaxing.

Their donation was raised through a Go Fund Me page that was set up, following the singer and impressionist’s death last August, by his former partner of 25 years Rita Lamey, his sister Ann, family friend Simon Woolston and supported by other family and friends. Rita, who also once worked as Joe’s PA and fan club president, said: “This is all about Joe. We initially set up the page to raise funds for a memorial statue to Joe in Hull but then we thought Joe would really want to spend the money on helping people.”

Our team, left to right: Falon Whalen (Trainee Solicitor), Assunta Wood (Legal Secretary), Georgia Kelly (Trainee Legal Secretary), Pat Hartley (Legal Secretary), Sarah Bentley (Solicitor), Eve Brelsford (Solicitor), Sarah Shaun (Senior Cashier).

The true value of team work Therefore, we extend our thanks and appreciation to all clients, court staff, colleagues and contractors (notably Holker IT) for their sterling support and collaboration.

of 40 hearings, completed by telephone, Zoom, Microsoft Team or Skype.

quickly to changing circumstances, but the critical factor behind our seamless service has

We are starting to see clients in person again (providing, of course, that clients feel comfortable in doing so) and have some excellent facilities here, including a spacious boardroom.

of our team - Eve, Sarah, Falon, Assunta, Pat and Georgia.

At the height of the crisis, that excellent team work allowed us to continue to meet the needs of individual clients and the ‘virtual court system’.

We have also created a soundproof and discreet space for appointments and to enable attendance at court hearings to take place safely. Telephone or video appointments can also be arranged.

Indeed, we prepared for and undertook in excess

We have embraced technology and adapted

A sincere ‘thank-you’ to them and to everyone involved … and rest assured that we will continue to carry out work for you in the safest possible circumstances.

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lifestyle Field, observing social distancing rules in accordance with all government guidelines.

An opportunity to see friends in the flesh at last!

Senior member Angus Stewart raised £1,161 by organising a Social Media Push-Up Challenge. He encouraged a whole host of other ‘horsey’ people to do the same, which has accumulated much needed funds for the Solving Kids’ Cancer charity.

On a further celebratory note, Chipping Pony Club are delighted and proud to see former member and apprentice jockey, Poppy Fielding, return to horse racing after lockdown to ride a winner at Windsor Racecourse last month. Poppy was riding Arcanada for trainer Tom Dascombe over six furlongs. She has won two out of eight races in her career so far! That’s some strike rate.

IN THE SADDLE Staying upbeat and positive, Chipping Pony Club members enjoyed the wonderful sunny weather during lockdown, which writes Paula Kopydlowski

I

n these unprecedented times some Chipping Pony Club members have been lucky to spend more time with their ponies. Other weren’t so lucky as some livery yards closed their doors to owners and some youngsters were unable to visit their ponies because they were shielding vulnerable family members. The resilience of all these youngsters has been astonishing and they should be applauded for their patience and understanding.

Chipping Pony Club adapted quickly to offer non-riding activities from home.

Workbooks were sent to those who wanted

to work on achievement badges, such as ‘Birds in Your Garden’, ‘Taking Care of Your Pets’ and ‘The Countryside’.

It has been a perfect opportunity to spend time appreciating how wonderful nature really is. Quizzes, crosswords, creative writing competitions, colouring, training videos and challenges for older members were set. Members contributed to the ‘Toilet Roll Challenge’ video showing entertaining things to do with toilet rolls.

Members shared photographs of their ponies on their holidays in the sunshine.

Unfortunately, ridden events, rallies and activities were cancelled. Area qualifiers, championships, Senior Summer Camp, mounted games, dressage and show jumping leagues, tetrathlon, badges and tests – all cancelled for 2020. Opportunities to have a go at new activities such as polo, polocrosse, pony racing were also all put on hold.

National Pony Club competitions saw Chipping’s Grace Robinson placed second in the Easter bonnet competition! What a fantastic effort this young member has made in her participation with the club.

Chipping have, however, managed to run a low-key training rally at Longridge Show

Poppy works as an apprentice for Tom at Manor House Stables in Cheshire, which is owned by former footballer Michael Owen.

Racing has taken Poppy to Australia where she worked for Godolphin and trainer Chris Wallers. She started her love of racing by taking part in Pony Racing with Chipping Pony Club at a young age, where she had a winner riding her racing pony Maple Mocochino at Haydock Park.

Chipping Pony Club are starting to organise events over the summer as lockdown eases.

Take a look at their website: branches.pcuk.org/chipping

If you are interested in joining, please contact Chipping’s District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 07739 687972 or email: chipping@pcuk.org

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BACK UP AND RUNNING… Highclere’s Jason Fildes

W

hat an extraordinary time it has been – and for the racing industry too! There was no racing in the UK from mid-March and now we have re-started, it’s racing behind closed doors with the only people allowed to go to the racecourse being officials, vets, doctors, stable hands, trainers and jockeys. I haven’t been yet but those who have say it is a very strange experience.

Despite stables being locked down (like everyone else) during this time, horses have continued to be trained in the normal way, being ridden out every morning by a dedicated team of stable staff, most of whom lived on site to ensure nobody came in or out. It’s been a lot of hard work, but it did mean that when we resumed racing everyone was ready to go.

Even though we’ve hardly been able to see him in the flesh, we have a new twoyear-old colt named Lauded. He is owned by the Manor House syndicate, all 10 of whom live here in the North West.

Luckily, we were provided with updates and videos about his progress from trainer Tom Dascombe in Cheshire. Suddenly, those reports became quite positive and by the end of May, Tom phoned to say Lauded was ready to make his race course debut and they were looking for opportunities as soon as racing restarted. However, so was every other trainer which meant every race was extremely competitive. Tom entered him in a Haydock novice with a few expensive Newmarket-trained horses and while we hoped for the best, it was certainly a major shock – and thrilling, to see him win by over four lengths!

We all watched on TV at home and the WhatsApp group chat exploded after the race, especially when it was announced his next race would be 12 days later in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot!

There was further excitement as a week before the race an offer came in from the Middle East to buy Lauded – at nearly 10 times what we had paid for him. It was too good an offer to ignore but everyone had joined the syndicate to have fun, so it was a difficult decision… we took the middle ground and sold half of him.

It was an unbelievably exciting run up to Ascot with zoom calls, daily reports from the trainer and top hats worn at home on the day!

Lauded finished seventh – on ground softer than he likes, having looked the likely winner at the 2f pole.

It has not all been about Lauded though, as Thunderous, trained by Mark Johnston in Middleham, put his unbeaten record on the line at Newmarket, where he finished second, running a superb race after a long lay-off.

I’m also pleased to say that Digital has made a promising start with two second place finishes at Newcastle and Doncaster.

Racing life is beginning to get back to normal with stable visits for groups of six allowed and two owners per horse can go racing. We’ve got some really promising horses to look forward to for the rest of the year, especially a sweet filly named Immaculate who will be having her first run soon.

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

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lifestyle adhering to British Show Jumping rules and government guidelines. Northcote Stud was the first centre in the North of England to host a training show and a British Show Jumping event since before lockdown: “It was so good to be hosting an event again,” Emily says. “We had to close entries two days before the closing date due to restrictions on numbers, and because of how many riders were keen to be competing again!

“The cancellation of the Young Horse Show in May was a devastating financial loss but we are optimistic and look to a

THE VERY BEST EQUINE SERVICE AND CARE Northcote Stud is continuing to show why it is the North of England’s premier equestrian centre. Gail Bailey met with out what’s been happening since lockdown, and the plans ahead.

Photography: Robin Lydon

W

hile the horses may have had some rest during lockdown, it has been a busy time for Emily Whiteside and her dedicated team at Northcote Stud, who have been forging ahead to make sure they had everything ready to re-open as soon as the green light was given in June.

“We have a first-rate team here at Northcote Stud who have worked hard over the past few months caring for the horses and completing works to ensure the yard and arenas are in prime condition ready to welcome everyone back,” Emily says.

All the buildings have been painted including the stables which have been varnished and power washed too. Fencing works have all been completed externally and this meant the team had to learn new skills: “We have created a stallion pen so had to learn how to construct an eight-foot fence fairly quickly,” Emily explains.

As lockdown sadly meant that shows and events had to be cancelled, Emily and the team ensured everything was safe, ready to open as soon as they were able,

WE HAVE A FIRST-RATE TEAM WHO HAVE WORKED HARD OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS COMPLETING WORKS TO WELCOME EVERYONE BACK

positive future – and it is already back in the calendar for 2021,” Emily adds.

Northcote do have Senior Show Jumping events booked for this year along with unaffiliated jumping events. The website is updated regularly with a full listing of the shows the stud will be holding this year.

The indoor arena can also now be used for up to five riders for warm up prior to the events.

Sharing her skills with other riders, Emily offers show-jumping lessons on-site which are proving to be hugely popular.

With capacity for around 46 horses and offering a first class service of full livery, breaking livery and schooling livery, owners and riders can have complete confidence that their horses are cared for at Northcote Stud: “We are able to provide outstanding facilities and our stables are large and fully equipped with the benefit of CCTV monitoring and staff on site 24 hours, so owners are able to have full peace of mind,” Emily explains.

For further information on the upcoming events and the amazing facilities Northcote Stud has to offer:

Northcote Stud Northcote Road, Old Langho Blackburn BB6 8BE 01254 790025 07774 968006 northcotestud.com

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ith a degree from Leeds Metropolitan University, the UK centre for Events Management, Olivia Livesey used her maternity leave to launch Sweet Perfection with her first event being a christening party for her new baby daughter Ayda: “It went so well and gave me so many more ideas!” recalls Olivia, who is soon hoping to open a shop in the Ribble Valley.

From baby showers and birthdays to wonderful weddings, Sweet Perfection

SWEET SUCCESS… A year ago, Olivia Livesey made the decision to set up her own business here in the Ribble Valley – Sweet Perfection creates the perfect backdrop for your celebration.

With many years of industry experience, Olivia specialises in spectacular props, flower walls, balloon garlands and towers, balloon bubbles and centre pieces – and a classic favourite – a personalised sweetie cart!

The success of Sweet Perfection

is evident in the number of glowing testimonials. A delighted client said: “I ordered the Sweetie Cart Luxury Package for my daughter’s christening and I cannot explain how amazing it was! Olivia’s service was outstanding.”

Olivia explains: “To have so many gorgeous venues here in

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the Ribble Valley is wonderful as it makes my job so enjoyable.

“At the moment the trend is very much to personalise props – the personalisation of balloons has become massive,” adds Olivia, who can arrange delivery or client collection.

“I think at the moment people really want to be extravagant – they want to spoil their kids and themselves.”

If you have a celebration coming up and you would like to make it extra special call Olivia today.

Sweet Perfection Ribble Valley 07958 206391 sweetperfectionribblevalley.com

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lifestyle

VIRTUAL SHOW DAY

L

ast November, after doing a variety of roles within the Goosnargh and Longridge Agricultural Show over the last two decades, Claire Eccles took on the role of Chairman.

“My first year hasn’t quite gone as I had expected! A few months into the role and we had to make the decision to cancel the show due to Covid-19,” recalls Claire.

It is not the first time the show has had to be cancelled – in 2001 it was due to foot and mouth and there was a year when the show-field was too waterlogged to hold the event. But in both of those years a few classes that could exhibit went ahead in the Civic Hall.

Claire explains: “It felt wrong to have no kind of show but what can you do in lockdown? Being a Twitter fan, I was following the progress of the Greatest Online Agricultural Show with interest. I wondered, could we do something like this?”

Claire contacted two committee members, Leo Redpath who runs the websites and

Claire Eccles Chairman of Goosnargh and Longridge Show explains how the event has had to adapt to changing times and is now live with a virtual show-day on their website Pippa Davis who runs the community section and the show’s online social media.

THE VIRTUAL SHOW ALLOWED THE COMMUNITY TO COME TOGETHER TO ENTER A SMALL NUMBER OF CLASSES IN A SMALL NUMBER OF SECTIONS “Leo and Pippa worked wonders and came up with the Goosnargh and Longridge Virtual Show. The virtual show allowed the community to come together to enter a small number of classes in a small number of sections. All exhibits are in the form of photographs and the general theme is the countryside and farming.

“It also has photographs from the other sections from previous years to showcase everything that is great about the show.”

The virtual Goosnargh and Longridge Agricultural Show went live on Saturday 11th July, and will remain on the website glashow.org.uk for a number of weeks for people to view.

Claire concludes: “Our virtual show had only a small selection of the usual sections and classes we run and we always welcome new members and exhibitors, so put a note in your diary to download next year’s schedule and come along on Saturday 10th July 2021.”

glashow.org.uk

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lifestyle

DVANTAGES HISTORIC CITY G A PET Preston has a long and prestigious history. Today it is a bustling city boasting high street stores, smaller independent retailers ASPECTS OFtopINSURANCE WORK and, of course, its wonderful traditional markets

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tarting out life small, Preston was

OWNINGestablished A DOG OR earlyOTHER on as an important PET IS ALSO KNOWN TO HAVE market town. The nameVAST Preston is IMPROVEMENTS ON A PERSON’S based on the Anglo Saxon ‘priest’s SOCIAL WELLBEING town’ indicating an early settlement of religious origin.

In Georgian times elegant homes and buildings were erected along picturesque streets

and the town was an upscale social hub for the gentry in the 17th century – it was a place for the fashionable and well to do.

The industrial revolution soon changed this and when new age wealthy professionals ushered in a new kind of society, the upper classes jumped ship leaving their grand homes to the latest influx of influential workers who

Image: Paul Rommer

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were making their own money.

In 1850 Karl Marx visited the town hailing Preston as the next St Petersburg!

Preston’s status as one of the major towns of the North West is reflected in the fact that it became the first town outside London to have its streets lit by gaslight.

In the 1800’s the railway was introduced to Preston connecting the town to Manchester and London, and other major cities – it was a halfway point on long journeys from Glasgow to London and that remains true to this day.

Today Preston is well known for many things not least the Preston Guild a time honoured tradition. It is also now a thriving city having been awarded that status in 2002 as part of Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.

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GET THE FEELGOOD FACTOR Quieter roads, lots of summer sunshine and a global drive towards health and wellbeing have seen sales soar at world class Ribble Cycles

I

t’s January 2020 and globally-renowned Ribble Cycles are about to introduce an exciting new concept to their slick website – the ability to experience a one-to-one guided visit of their showroom from the comfort of the customer’s own home.

Fast forward just a few weeks later and this innovative virtual tour, along with Ribble Cycles’ development of world class bikes and the company’s agile response to lockdown, have seen sales rocket by 300 per cent.

Commercial Drector David Stacey recalls: “Like everyone we were expecting it to be a tough time. But, in business terms, it soon became evident that it was a perfect storm for Ribble Cycles.

WHEN THE GOVERNMENT BEGAN TO FOCUS ON EXERCISING OUTDOORS MOST PEOPLE SAW CYCLING AS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLBEING “From the moment furloughing began, people had time on their hands. The whole of the North West was enjoying day after day of sunshine and when the government messaging began to focus on exercising outdoors most people saw cycling as a great opportunity to improve health and wellbeing.

They became more adventurous.

“Bricks and mortar showrooms were forced to close so cyclists started looking online and that’s where Ribble excels, so the launch of our live video chat and tour couldn’t have come at a better time.”

Always looking to the future, Ribble launched this feature as they wanted to offer their customers the ultimate online

experience when choosing every aspect of their customised bike: “We are at the forefront of cycling and ahead of the game – we were looking at what our customers would want next.

“However, while lockdown presented some considerable challenges it also enabled our existing business model to be ready for these challenging times.”

As all Ribble Cycles’ bikes are assembled by hand at the company’s headquarters in Preston, mechanics and technicians worked together in close proximity, so the first challenge was to create a safe working environment for all employees: “Our colleagues are all so committed, they went above and beyond what was expected. They were brilliant,” enthuses David.

The success of Ribble Cycles’ lies in their innovative approach and ingenuity.

lifestyle

Individual bike customisation and directto-consumer sales is, and always has been, the DNA of the brand.

Throughout its 123-year history, Ribble Cycles has survived two World Wars and the Spanish Flu – and it continues to flourish. Over the years it has grown its collection of premium bikes, responding quickly to change. From ultra-lightweight electric bikes to award-winning race bikes, the company has become a global player in the cycling world.

The easing of lockdown and the need to avoid public transport, has created a huge surge of interest in bikes right across Ribble Cycles’ range.

Add to that the government’s announcement to improve cycling infrastructure and cycle-to-work incentives, people across the UK are wholeheartedly embracing the cycling culture.

“As a company we welcome the government’s commitment of £33.5m to the North West to create more safe cycling spaces including cycle lanes and incentives for those who want to cycle to work.

Many are jumping on the cycling trend as it has so many advantages, from economic to health and wellbeing,” adds David, who advises on key points to look out for when buying a bike for commuting: • Choose a bike that is comfortable and the right size for you. Ribble bikes can be tailored to each individual person.

• A bike that can accommodate panniers or

luggage is vital if you’ll want a change of clothes when you arrive at work.

• Choosing a bike that can accommodate mud guards is important. You will appreciate it as the seasons change.

• Consider security and where you will lock and leave your bike when you get to work.

The range depends on fitness and weight, but typically an e-bike can go 60 miles on one charge – perfect for an easy commute!

• Taking into account your budget – find out if your employer is part of the government’s ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme as it could make a big difference financially.

TYPICALLY AN E-BIKE CAN GO 60 MILES ON ONE CHARGE – PERFECT FOR AN EASY COMMUTE TO WORK! • An e-bike is perfect for commuting.

They are incredibly flexible and you can turn the assistance on or off at the push of a button. Fancy a nice easy ride into work, but a more challenging ride on the way home? At a push of the power button and you can select how much assistance you receive.

• At Ribble Cycles we encourage people to think about versatility. Want to ride at the weekend with your family as well as the commute? Perhaps a hybrid bike might fit your lifestyle better than a road bike. For this reason, The Ribble Hybrid AL e is one of the most popular bikes among commuters.

David concludes: “This is a really exciting time for cycling. People are enjoying their commute, avoiding public transport and, of course, they are discovering some of the lovely lanes and trails right here on their doorstep in the Ribble Valley.”

To find out more go to ribblecycles.co.uk and chat to the experts at Ribble Cycles

Ribble Cycles 363 Leach Place, Walton Summit Centre Bamber Bridge, Preston PR5 8AS 01772 963400 ribblecycles.co.uk

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EDUCATIONN E W S FINAL PHASE

MILE CHALLENGE

WINNER EMILY

The start of summer saw Accrington and Rossendale College enter the final phase of its £4million campus transformation.

The college, which became part of the Nelson and Colne College Group in 2018, predominantly continued its teaching and learning operations online. During that time, improvement works on the college’s campus continued to progress.

Pupils, students, parents, carers and staff rallied together for the first ever QEGS ‘virtual’ fun run. Those in school, including key worker children took part in one-mile events through the day. Meanwhile, pupils and students who were at home were asked to run their own one mile and share photos and videos from their run, jog or walk!

The event raised money for Breast Cancer Now and Children with Cancer UK. Over £600 has been raised so far.

Oakhill took part in the Mother Tongue, Other Tongue competition. This is a national Laureate Education Project, run

by Manchester Metropolitan University and this year, they received a record number of entries. Oakhill was delighted to learn that Year 4 pupil, Emily Wood, has won the Year 4, 5 and 6 age category.

A fantastic achievement!

COMMUNITY SUPPORT Westholme School came together to support the NHS and its community in a number of different ways during lockdown. The Blackburn-based independent school donated hundreds of gloves, safety glasses and scrubbing brushes to the Royal Blackburn Hospital and local GP surgeries.

The 3D printer and laser cutter at Westholme School worked continuously to create visors and mask clips.

STUDENT DAY WOMBLES WINNER Isabelle McCarren, a Year 5 pupil in the Junior School of Bolton School Girls’ Division, is celebrating winning the Wombles Eco-Schools Primary Competition. Pupils across the land were tasked with producing a cartoon strip which emphasised the dangers that animals in the countryside and wildlife face from discarded litter.

St Mary’s College in Blackburn recently held their first ever Virtual New Student Day to welcome all new students before starting college life in September 2020. This was a great introduction into all things St Mary’s.

Attendees had the chance to take part in engaging activities from A Level and vocational provision and explore a range of courses that can be combined to create a blended learning experience. Other activities at the event included the opportunity to explore the campus through video tours and to virtually meet the teachers.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE Rossall School Upper Sixth International Baccalaureate students celebrated the release of their Rossall Diploma results and their International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) results. Although unable to sit their official IBO, they nevertheless revised, prepared for and sat the school’s internal Rossall Diploma examinations. The students achieved an average of 35 points.

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education

EXCITING NEW ERA promotes attracted me instantly.You have

The appointment of Dr Richard Robson as Westholme’s sixth a feel for a school very quickly and I could Principal sees the beginning of an exciting new era at the school immediately see how the commitment to

T

he Governors of Westholme School are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Richard Robson as Principal, commencing the role in January 2021.

The successful appointment, from an exceptionally strong field, prepares for the departure of current Principal, Mrs Lynne Horner, who has led the school through a period of significant change and development over the last seven years.

Chairman of Governors, Brian Marsden commented: “Dr Robson is an outstanding educational leader who is perfectly qualified to build on Mrs Horner’s success at Westholme. He has enjoyed a highly impressive educational career to date and

his youth belies his extensive experience and distinguished reputation in the sector.

“Previously the Headmaster of two independent HMC schools, St. Bede’s in Manchester and Woodbridge in Suffolk, he brings an admirable record of pupil achievement and a deep commitment to excellence in every aspect of school life.

His strong leadership skills are enhanced by his wider educational expertise.Working as an ISI Inspector for over 10 years, serving on national committees and completing a Doctorate in Education have clearly given Dr Robson a fully rounded view of best practice in the independent school sector.

“We are thrilled he has chosen to return to the North, where he has family roots, to lead our school into the exciting next chapter. As we approach our centenary, we are all keen to see Westholme continue to evolve, adapt and thrive. We have every confidence that Dr Robson is precisely the person to do this.”

Dr Robson is equally honoured to be joining Westholme at such a pivotal time.

He said: “Westholme is a wonderful school and the family values and caring ethos it

the development of the whole child matched my own educational philosophy.

“Every aspect of a holistic education with the child at the centre is key and I was impressed to see how well Westholme brings together the three pillars of academic rigour, creative and performing arts and sporting endeavour. The warmth and energy of the school are so evident and I am really passionate about becoming part of the vibrant community. I look forward to meeting all the students, staff and parents when the world has become less socially distant! Westholme has an incredibly bright future ahead and it is a genuine privilege to have the opportunity to steer a school where children come first.”

01254 506070 westholmeschool.com

CAR ING FOR EACH OTHER, CONTR IBUTING TO OUR COMMUNIT Y

W W W.W E S T H O L M E S C H O O L . C O M

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education

A POSITIVE FOCUS ON THE FUTURE throughout lockdown from the unrivalled pastoral care and sense of community that the school has at its core, writes Gail Bailey

R

ossall School is one of the country’s leading independent boarding and day schools with a reputation for nurturing its pupils within a safe, secure and supportive environment.

This level of care and outstanding standard of education has been maintained for all pupils throughout the recent lockdown period.

“We have been open throughout these challenging times with all children learning remotely and up to 100 children in school each day. As things now begin to ease for us all, more children are gradually returning to school and we will be open fully from September,” explains Headmaster Jeremy Quartermain.

Virtual assemblies occur every Monday morning and a high level of pastoral support has been in place for all pupils. The school even established its own bespoke diploma for Year 10 and Year 12 pupils. These examinations were invigilated in 41 countries and 10 different time zones. This was no mean feat from a logistic perspective but the school was determined to ensure that children left with credible grades that reflected their true potential. Over 70 per cent of Rossall Sixth Formers hold offers from Top 20 universities in the UK and exam transcripts from school examinations will be made available to universities in support of individual applications.

EVERY CHILD HAS A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO AN EDUCATION AND WHEN BARRIERS OR OBSTACLES APPEAR IT IS OUR JOB AS EDUCATORS TO OVERCOME THESE AND MOVE FORWARD The staff and pupils at Rossall have excelled during these unprecedented times and the strength of this community and the resourcefulness of its staff have been evident: “We are a progressive school and we had all embraced digital learning before the recent lockdown commenced.

All online lessons commenced on the first Monday morning of lockdown,” he adds.

The Headmaster has high praise for the teaching staff who he says have been incredible, in terms of how quickly they have adapted to teaching and learning on virtual platforms: “Every child has a fundamental right to an education and when barriers or obstacles appear it is our job as educators to overcome these and move forward.”

It will be a positive start in September with some exciting new developments.

Rossall doesn’t stand still and some of the recent changes include the nursery moving to a new and upgraded facility that includes a baby room, and the infant school being redeveloped and significantly enlarged.

Sports and Sixth Form amenities have seen major investment and the next project will be the full restoration of the iconic school dining hall.

Stringent measures are in place to ensure the safety of all the pupils, staff and visitors.

Thermal imaging cameras have been installed along with temperature testing facilities and only 15 pupils will be in a classroom.

Minimising risk is central to all planning and supporting students emotional, as well as physical, wellbeing is a key focus. Indeed, the school is seen as a trailblazer within the independent school sector and recently established the UK Safe Schools movement.

The Headmaster adds: “The measures and protocols that we have put in place mean that whilst there are inevitably a few compromises to be made, the essence of normal school life is still there, and our children can access all of the facilities and, most importantly, enjoy working together.”

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

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ost new cars are fine, some are good, many are excellent, but occasionally, just occasionally, a new car pulls up that is (deep intake of breath) nothing short of sensational.

One such example is the all-electric Taycan from Porsche. In a word – wow!

So brilliant a motor vehicle that even Oliver Blume, the Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche, struggles to do it justice when he says: “The Taycan starts a new era for Porsche, linking our heritage to the future. It carries forward the success story of our brand – a brand

that has fascinated and thrilled people the world over for more than 70 years.”

Come on Mr Blume, don’t be so bashful.

This superb, four-door, eye-popping sports/sedan is so much more than that!

The Taycan offers a unique package of typical (by any other marque ‘outstanding’)

Porsche performance and connectivity with everyday usability. The manufacturer promised a car for the age of electromobility, one designed to not only excite in terms of its technology and driving dynamics, but also to spark a passion.

Has it delivered? Has it ever.

NO NEED FOR ANY ‘RANGE ANXIETY’ HERE WITH A BATTERY CAPABLE OF DELIVERING UPWARDS OF 225 MILES Porsche isn’t just playing at electromobility – by 2022 it will have invested more than six billion euros in the project.

Serious stuff.

The Taycan is the first production vehicle boasting a system voltage of 800 volts (electric cars usually have 400 volts). In just over five minutes, the high-performance battery can be re-charged up to 100 kilometres (62 plus miles). No need for any ‘range anxiety’ here with a battery capable of

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delivering upwards of 225 miles.

The overall design – clean and puristic – is unmistakably Porsche, particularly wide and flat at the front with highly contoured wings and a sporty roofline. The cabin is super-sleek and there are many innovative elements such as the glass-effect Porsche logo integrated into the rear light bar.

CONTROL IS INTELLIGENT AND INTUITIVE, USING TOUCH OPERATION OR THE VOICE CONTROL FUNCTION, WHICH RESPONDS TO ‘HEY PORSCHE’ The cockpit has a clear structure with freestanding, curved instrument cluster and a central, 10.9-inch infotainment display.

The number of switches and buttons has been deliberately scaled down. Instead, control is intelligent and intuitive, using touch operation or the voice control function, which responds to ‘Hey Porsche’.

With the Taycan, Porsche offers an entirely leather-free interior for the first time. Interiors made from innovative recycled materials underscore the sustainability. Two luggage compartments offer 81 litres capacity (front) 366 litres (rear). There are four driving modes: Range, Normal, Sport and Sport Plus along with an Individual option.

As for kerb appeal, this is the eye candy of the car world. A stunner.

Once you have managed to get your jaw back up to where it should be and stopped drooling over the looks, the next step is to ease yourself aboard, enjoy the privilege of being in the driving seat and take a spin.

And it’s every bit as good as you dared hope. It’s surprisingly plush, regardless of whether you’re in the 4S, as I was, with 19inch wheels or the Turbo and Turbo S with their bigger alloys. Bumps come and go with little fuss or interruption and the steering and cornering is top class.

It certainly turns a head or two on even the shortest test drive and, talking of turning, you can even turn on ‘Electric Sport Sound’ to create the exciting roar of a turbocharged Porsche!

It’s super-quick off the mark too, ripping to 60 mph in 2.4 seconds with a top speed 162 mph.

This car will definitely suit the sports car enthusiast with an eco-conscience, particularly those in business as the BIK (Benefits in Kind) offers significant tax advantages.

The Taycan range starts from £83,367.

Finally, I thought you might like to know more about the name. Taycan is of Turkic origin, roughly translated as ‘soul of a spirited young horse’, a perfect description for this lively, impetuous, vigorous, freedom-loving machine.

A thoroughbred sprinter in every sense, a winner in every race.

Porsche Centre Preston Watery Lane PR2 1QJ 01772 911911 porschepreston.co.uk @PorscheCentrePreston @Porsche_Preston TM

@Porsche_Preston

It’s not often you have a dream to run a business in something you have always had a passion for. Tracy Hargreaves talks to one man whose dream became a reality

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ndy Smallwood is at the helm of Ribble Cycles, a British cycling stalwart, which has been trading in Preston since 1897. Born in Morecambe, Andy had been into bikes from an early age, always tinkering and trying new things. He studied for a degree in product design, innovation and marketing at Derby University, followed by a post graduate in enterprise at Nottingham Trent University which led to his first entrepreneurial success in his early 20s, when he designed a tricycle for disabled children. “I looked around and found that all the specialist trikes on the market were very boring, grey and not really fit for purpose. I wanted a bike that

anyone could use and when the children rode them, they didn’t feel different from any other person riding a bike,” says Andy.

After receiving a grant from the Prince’s Trust, the bikes went into production and on to the market.

From then on, Andy worked in various bike shops as a mechanic and then store manager before getting itchy feet and decided he needed to concentrate on a career. He landed a job with Halfords, the UK’s largest cycling retailer, as an assistant buyer of accessories, before working his way up to product manager within the bikes team and finally in 2007 becoming senior product manager. Halfords was the

biggest bike retailer but had predominately focused on mainstream bikes. However, he saw an opening to lead the company into a more premium bike offering. “The premium market was dominated mainly by the American and Far Eastern brands, due to their breadth and quality of range combined with large footprint of independent retailers,” says Andy. “I knew we had a great opportunity here but to compete with the dominant independent retailers we would have to develop our own brands, design world class products and optimise our direct to consumer commercial advantage.”

WE LITERALLY SAT ROUND A KITCHEN TABLE, SHARED OUR INSIGHT AND IDEAS WHICH DEVELOPED INTO A STRONG BUSINESS PLAN By chance Chris Boardman, the British former racing cyclist who won an individual pursuit gold medal at the 1992 summer Olympics, had aspirations for a bike brand of his own and saw Halfords as a potential partner to make this a reality. Right from the first meeting it was clear that there was a shared passion for bicycle design and Andy saw the perfect opportunity to work with

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Chris and his company to develop an exclusive brand for Halfords that would take them into new markets and secure their long term position within the premium sector. “We literally sat round a kitchen table, shared our insight and ideas which developed into a strong business plan. It was very exciting and challenging, but successful and it grew quickly,” says Andy. “Within the first 12 months of launching our first product range one of our bikes won gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, we won multiple awards for our bike range and quickly became the fastest growing British premium bike brand.”

I WANT CYCLING TO BE ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE TO ALL After establishing Halfords as a major player in the premium bike sector and building the Boardman brand, in 2010 Andy left Halfords to take up the position as operations director with Boardman Bikes to concentrate on developing the brand and business, taking the brand international, into the independent sector with the higher end Elite range with further Olympic and World Championships being won on bikes designed under Andy’s leadership. In 2014 the brand sold to Halfords and Andy stayed with the business to lead the multi-award-winning bike brand as managing director. Through Andy’s creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, he played an integral part in giving the Boardman brand a legacy, which still continues today through the world class Performance Centre with cutting edge wind tunnel and athlete performance lab.

In 2017, he was head hunted by True Capital the owners of Ribble Cycles in Preston. His inspirational vision has seen the brand already refocus and concentrate on being a world class bike brand with a forward-thinking approach to bicycle retail.

“It was important to take the company back to its roots as a premium bike business and I want to take Ribble beyond this and into a world class bike brand. Over the years many British Cycling legends have ridden a Ribble during their careers, including Chris Boardman, Geraint Thomas, and Sir Bradley Wiggins. In recent years though it had been known for direct to consumer parts accessories and clothing, but with competition growing within the e-commerce sector and acquisition costs increasing,

ultimately profitability was reducing.

Talking to customers, it was clear that there was a historic connection with Ribble as a bike brand with many having owned a Ribble bike. The name resonated with lots of people, but it had been forgotten about or tainted by the recent aggressive retail focus of the business.

“I want cycling to be accessible and affordable to all, whether they are new to cycling, an experienced cyclist, aspiring Olympic champion or a retired professional rider who wants to keep enjoying cycling.

We had to have a world class product range and this meant establishing our own internal R&D team to ensure our product is market leading in terms of technology

and design. Every bike is 100 per cent built to order (with one mechanic per bike) and we offer customers an unparalleled ability to personalise and customise their bikes. We are putting significant focus on the customer journey and experience.

E-bikes in-particular are becoming more popular and revolutionising many riders’ cycling experience. We have the world’s lightest electric bike range (from 11kg) which is ideal for those who want to ride further, higher and more comfortably or maybe have limited ability due to returning to fitness, injury or illness benefitting from the controlled power assistance when needed making cycling accessible again. Gone are the days of the big battery pack bolted to the frame, you wouldn’t even know our bikes are electric as they look and ride just like a high-end non powered bike.”

Today as chief executive, Andy has a clear vision for the Ribble business and with his team, have positioned it as a leading British premium bike brand with a world class product range and innovative approach to bicycle retail. The Ribble business looks set to enjoy another 100 years at the forefront of the cycling industry.

It just shows that with hard work and commitment, dreams sometimes do come true.

www.ribblecyles.co.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

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The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the thriving Ribble Valley, where business always matters If you have any Business Matters news items contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

ECONOMY BOOST Following the Prime Minister’s announcement, the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in collaboration with partners, has successfully secured £34.1 million from the Getting Building Better Fund.

Steve Fogg, Chairman of the LEP said, “I am delighted Lancashire has managed to secure £34.1m to help drive economic growth in the county. Money received from this fund will be invested in projects which will create jobs and invest in much needed infrastructure improvements, helping the county recover and bounce back quicker.’’

PRAISE FROM TV DRAGON Two Lancashire enterprises have earned praise from Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis. Clitheroe-born commercial photographer Jak Spedding scooped a coveted small business award for his interiors and architecture photography firm which was chosen to be featured in Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday campaign. Known across Twitter by the #SBS hashtag, the campaign sees businesses pitch their commercial offering to Paphitis in a single tweet every Sunday evening. The TV dragon selects six winners out of thousands of entries each week. Winners receive a retweet from Paphitis to his 500k followers and a featured profile on the Small Business Sunday website.

TEAM GROWS Longridge-based Singletons & Co has appointed an additional member of staff to its new product development team, to support its ongoing commitment to creating new dairy products that are distributed worldwide. Emma Hogarth joins the company as NPD co-ordinator and will be responsible for developing new flavours and blends of cheese and fulfilling customerspecific briefs for the retailers, wholesalers and food service businesses that the cheesemaker works with across the UK, US and beyond. Emma said: “I have a real passion for food and want to ensure Singletons & Co products will stand out and exceed customer and consumer expectations.”

PHASED REOPENING Lancashire Wildlife Trusts Brockholes Nature Reserve has revealed plans for a phased re opening. Earlier this month the car park and play area for visitors opened, but the Visitor Village and facilities will remain closed for the time being. Alan Wright, Communications Manager for the Trust said: “We would love to open up all of the facilities in one go, but the amount of work behind getting everything ready, and most importantly safe for the return of visitors is phenomenal.”

TOURISM KICKSTART Responding to the announcement from the Government about a new £10m package to help kickstart tourism, Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “We very much welcome the news of sector specific grant support for tourism businesses in England, it is exactly the type of initiative that we have been calling for.”

SUPPORT FROM SOLICITOR Sarah Bentley Solicitors has added financial support to a revolutionary fitness-based recovery programme aimed at beating addiction in East Lancashire. The 180 Project – which operates from CrossFit Clitheroe, is a notfor-profit project where people recovering from addictions use exercise and training to break negative lifecycles. Whalleybased Sarah is an active member at CrossFit Clitheroe and a trustee/director at the 180 Project. Anyone wishing to follow Sarah in becoming a corporate sponsor please contact: rachel.beck@180project.co.uk

SUNDAY TIMES LISTING The team at Holden Clough nursery were delighted to discover that the garden centre has been listed 16th in the Sunday Times 30 Best UK Garden Centres, published shortly after garden centres were allowed to open. The newspaper reported: “In this corner of the Ribble Valley, Lancashire, the saying goes that if a plant will grow at Holden Clough it will grow anywhere.” Commenting on social media following the announcement, the Holden Clough team said: “A total surprise to us and just to prove our social distancing booking system is working well and our reputation for quality plants is going strong!”

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END OF THE BLAME GAME Many people will be aware of the recent overwhelming vote by MPs in the House of Commons to change the law in relation to divorce. According to Family lawyer Helen Lucking, partner

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he proposed reforms in the Divorce Dissolution and Separation Bill remove the ‘fault’ element in the divorce process. This means one party no longer has to accuse the other spouse of adultery or unreasonable behaviour in order to start immediate proceedings.

If a husband and wife have simply grown apart and do not want to allege ‘fault’, the law as it currently stands does not allow them to get divorced until they have waited a minimum of two years – and that still requires the other spouse’s consent before the divorce can go through. This approach has long been seen by lawyers and the public as outdated.

Under the new law, couples will simply say that their marriage has irretrievably broken down and apply for a divorce.

There will be a minimum 20-week period of reflection before they are granted the first stage of the divorce.

Whilst the well-publicised changes passed another stage in Parliament in June 2020,

it will in fact, take much longer for the new law to be given Royal Assent and to be implemented. So, although change is coming, it is not here yet.

When the new process does arrive, the key point is that it takes the blame out of the equation.

WHEN THE NEW PROCESS DOES ARRIVE, THE KEY POINT IS THAT IT TAKES THE BLAME OUT OF THE EQUATION There will undoubtedly be couples who have been contemplating divorce after being in lockdown with their spouse during the Covid outbreak. Often people research information on divorce and consult a solicitor without the knowledge of the other spouse and this has obviously been made more difficult during lockdown. Family lawyers are anticipating a spike in the divorce rate as our lives slowly return to normality.

Whatever your personal circumstances, it is worth remembering that the changes to the law will be quite some time coming into effect. If you are considering divorce and want to understand the options available to you and begin to plan for your future, you should seek professional advice sooner rather than later. Whilst it can be a particularly difficult time right now for those in need of privacy, here at Napthens we do understand the problems people face and we aim to be as flexible as possible to enable our clients to have access to the consultations and advice needed.

Please feel free to contact me or a member of our family team if you would like to arrange a consultation

Helen Lucking is a Partner and Head of Family and Divorce at regional law firm Napthens napthens.co.uk

napthens.co.uk

For life’s biggest challenges Together is better Moving home. Solving disputes. Divorce. Probate.

Estate planning. Complicated issues, often a worry.

But the support and advice from our experienced lawyers will guide you through the process. When you’re facing life’s big decisions, together is better.

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04/09/2019 10:06

“We got chatting about badminton and we knew some mutual players,” recalls Elaine. “I asked if she still played and she told me she spent most of her time in Florida playing a great game called pickleball.”

While Elaine and never heard of pickleball, the two ladies made a pact to return to Hua Hin the following winter to play a game: “And the rest is history,” explains Elaine, who returned from Thailand to Lancashire to set up what is now a thriving pickleball community.

IT’S A GREAT WAY TO KEEP FIT, AND THE SKILLS LEARNED DEVELOP GOOD HAND-EYE CO-ORDINATION Organising numerous ‘taster’ sessions teaching pickleball basics saw popularity soar and the first club was formed in Burnley.

“I became a self-appointed pickleball ambassador following a programme that runs in the USA,” explains Elaine, who has a background in sports development and coaching.

Using her network of contacts to establish more clubs, pickleball, which is played on a badminton-sized court, gradually expanded. Today Elaine, who is Pickleball England Regional Director for the North West, oversees numerous clubs and events including an annual three-day North West Pickleball Festival at the Tom Finney Sports Centre in Preston, which has in the past

PLAY PICKLEBALL! You may never have heard of the sport, but Pickleball England Regional Director Elaine Shallcross explains how she has seen pickleball become a global sporting phenomenon

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t was during a chance meeting in Hua Hin, Thailand, that Elaine Shallcross discovered pickleball – a sport that was not just going to transform her life – but help save it too.

Elaine, who played badminton at a high level for many years, was holidaying in Thailand when she met a former Scottish international badminton player at a coffee morning in Hua Lin.

welcomed players from throughout the UK, Hong Kong, Thailand, Finland, Germany, Cuba and Canada.

In Lancashire the sport is thriving with clubs throughout the county including Clitheroe, Longridge and Mellor.

Pickleball is also a demonstration event at the Lancashire Schools Games, which gives younger players the opportunity to try something new. Throughout the North West there has been a huge 42 per cent increase in players registering with Pickleball England – testament to the great development work going on in the sport.

So what is pickleball?

“Pickleball is a game for everyone,” explains Elaine, who lives in Longridge.

“We welcome new players of all ages, shapes and sizes!”

sport

With its origins in the US in the 1960s, pickleball, which can be played outdoors or in, is now the fastest growing game in the States with more than 2.8m players.

A pickleball court, is less than a third of the size of a tennis court but, most importantly, the pickleball travels less than a third of the speed of a tennis ball.

“The smaller surface area combined with the slower ball speed, and an underhand serve, makes pickleball easier to play than tennis,” enthuses Elaine.

“We originally started with a 50-plus group in Burnley. But we now have a new generation of young adult players and we actively encourage youngsters to get

involved too. It’s a great way to keep fit, and the skills learned develop good handeye co-ordination which helps the younger players to improve and transition into other racquet sports.”

Elaine, who has played pickleball all over the world, has won many trophies including golds in the Spanish, Amsterdam, German and GB International open ladies doubles and golds in the Indian and Italian mixed doubles.

Last year she was Senior Captain for Team Europe in the Bainbridge Cup, a tournament that saw Europe v N America and the rest of the world.

Having been involved in sport on both a volunteer and professional basis over a period of five decades, Elaine was devastated when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2019.

“Being diagnosed with a possible lifethreatening condition certainly changes your perspective.

“The health benefits of sport and exercise has long been recognised and pickleball is no exception. In my recent experience it has given me so much more – something that may well have helped save my life.”

Initially reluctant to tell people, Elaine changed her mind ahead of surgery: “I hoped it would be a reminder to people to get

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those essential health checks that are so vital and, since then, many of my pickleball friends have told me it did indeed prompt them to get checked out.

“The pickleball community have been truly amazing. I can’t believe how many players have reached out and shared their personal breast cancer battles. I take my hat off to their positivity.”

Following brutal chemotherapy sessions, it was messages of support from the global pickleball community that gave Elaine strength and motivation.

“They boosted my spirit at a time when I needed it most – they made me realise that my pickleball work is far from finished,” says Elaine, who is now recovering.

“I say a massive thank-you to my team of people and players, the Hua Hin players for their support running the Thailand Open in my absence and the players in the UK, Europe and the rest of the world – I have been so touched by the support, warmth and respect they have shown me.”

When permitted, Ribble Valley pickleball clubs will be holding Open Evenings to promote the sport and recruit new players For more information Elaine can be contacted on 07756 898621 or elaineshallcross@hotmail.com

SIZZLING HOT… Barbecue expert and butcher Callum Gillies shares a favourite recipe and explains how to get the best out of your barbecue this summer with

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owland Food Hall butcher and barbecue expert Callum Gillies has been constantly busy over the past few months with the food hall’s hugely popular ‘click and collect’ service during lockdown.

He was delighted to see just how popular ‘click and collect’ was, but he is equally thrilled to be now up and running and welcoming back loyal customers: “It was really nice to see Ribble Valley people appreciating quality meat from the food hall, especially when they weren’t able to eat out. It was extremely successful and with the sunny weather I think everyone was barbecuing!”

Callum, who recently created an outdoor dining area in his own garden, adds: “I am a massive fan of barbecuing.

I have a gas grill and a charcoal smoker and use woodchips to

get a really good, smoky flavour on the meat. That’s a favourite with me.

IF YOU USE TOP QUALITY MINCE FOR YOUR BURGERS, YOU DON’T REALLY NEED ANY OTHER INGREDIENTS APART FROM SEASONING “Here in the UK what is known as barbecuing is known as grilling in the US while smoking here is known as barbecuing over there. Luckily, I have both options – with smoking it’s a longer cooking time – it’s a combination of steaming and smoking. Any large cut of meat is good as it tenderises it.

Brisket is good or, my personal favourite, rib-eye.

“You can use a dry rub to add flavour – use a base of salt,

sugar, pepper and cayenne – then you can add, for example, peppercorns or fennel seed.

“Alternatively, you can brine meat for one or two days with a base of sugar and salt – then add any infusion.”

It’s the time of year when Bowland Food Hall introduces its hugely popular barbecue range, which includes a classic burger that is made in-house.

“People travel from far and wide for our burgers,” adds Callum.

“All our marinades for our meat are low salt and not your usual flavours. My favourite at the moment is a sriracha and

maple, we also do a fantastic jerk chicken kebab!”

If you fancy making your own home-made kebabs or burgers Callum has this advice: “Choose the best quality mince for burgers and consider the fat content, it’s essential – go for too much rather than too little. If you use the best mince you don’t really need any other ingredients apart from seasoning.”

A HOME-MADE SLAW IS ESSENTIAL – YOU DON’T NECESSARILY NEED MAYO, JUST ADD A VINAIGRETTE DRESSING OR SOME LOVELY FRESH CITRUS JUICES And, once you’ve got your meat sizzling on the grill or gently smoking – what about accompaniments?

“A home-made slaw is essential – you don’t necessarily need mayo, just add a vinaigrette dressing or some lovely fresh citrus juices.

“I also like parmesan and garlic Hasselback potatoes, nice fresh salads with wild rice or pasta work well too.”

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BBQ SEARED STEAK WITH CHIMICHURRI DIP

INGREDIENTS STEAK 2 x one-inch thick dry aged steaks (preferably rib eye) 2 tsp olive oil Sea salt and cracked black pepper CHIMICHURRI DIP 8 tbsp olive oil 1 /2 cup fine chopped fresh parsley tbsp fresh dill (optional) tsp sea salt flakes

2 tbsp red wine vinegar tsp oregano (dried or fresh) 4 cloves garlic pinch cracked black pepper

First make the dip. Using a pestle and mortar grind the garlic and salt together to create a course pulp.

Add all other ingredients and mix well.

Set aside to infuse flavours whilst preparing steaks.

Remove the steaks from fridge at least 30 mins before cooking (allowing them to reach room temp). Brush with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Sear on hottest part of the BBQ for 3-4 minutes each side (medium finish).

A rare steak is soft to touch toughening as they cook further.

Remove from BBQ and place on a warm plate covering with foil for 5-10 minutes to rest.

Slice into thick strips and drizzle chimichurri over the top.

This dish pairs well with flat breads toasted on the BBQ.

BBQ PACKS From ÂŁ35

PICNICS From ÂŁ20 Pop in or call us on 01200 407 130 to order. www.holmesmill.co.uk/food-hall | Greenacre Street, Clitheroe BB7 1EB

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food&drink

EAT OUT

TO HELP OUT Pubs and restaurants are opening up safely and they now have the opportunity to register with a Government scheme offering £10 discount per diner

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he Ribble Valley has long been known for its first-class artisan produce as well as its thriving hospitality industry.

As restaurants and country inns, café bars and bistros begin to open up safely, now’s the time to support them.

And with the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme, offering up to £10 discount per diner, there’s never been a better time to venture out to your favourite eatery.

Many establishments in the Ribble Valley have already registered with the scheme, including the James’ Places group, which has registered its cafes, the bistro and beer Hall at Holmes Mill, the Emporium, Mitton Hall, the Waddington Arms, Shireburn Arms, the Royal Hotel, Kirkby Lonsdale and Falcon Manor at Settle.

Sarah Brookfield-Almond, James’ Places MD, said: “It has been fantastic to see so many people back out supporting their local pubs, restaurants and cafes, safely.

We have managed to re-open the majority of our businesses in the Ribble Valley and intend to keep extending the offer and opening hours as demand grows.”

IT HAS BEEN FANTASTIC TO SEE SO MANY PEOPLE BACK OUT SUPPORTING THEIR LOCAL PUBS, RESTAURANTS AND CAFES, SAFELY The James’ Places pubs and restaurants have been closed for almost three months, but they certainly weren’t idle during that time. Volunteer teams from The Waddington

Arms, the Royal and the Emporium ran a series of charity takeaways to raise money for good causes, and gave their communities something to look forward to when lockdown was at its height.

Each venue served dishes that they do best from fish and chips to pizza and Roy Porter’s pies were kindly donated by Ann and her team in Chatburn. The result, was a magnificent total of £9075 split between North West Air Ambulance £4583, Derian House £1241, The Blurred Line Group (in memory of Kat Fell) £577, Alzheimer’s North West £1357 and Mind Lancashire £1317.

Andrew Thompson, Manager of the Waddington Arms said: “The Waddington Arms is at the heart of the village, this effort saw the staff and locals pulling together at this difficult time to do good for others, demonstrating the strength of community spirit. It was a very rewarding experience for all involved.”

To find out which local establishments are registered with the Eat Out to Help Out scheme go to: gov.uk

Order a luxury Afternoon Tea and enjoy our Al Fresco terrace with stunning views.

See further details on our FB page or ring us for details.

Clitheroe Road, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe, BB7 3DA

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food&drink

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s well as enjoying family time with her husband, five-year-old son Teddy Ray and new puppy Frank the sausage dog, Northcote’s executive chef Lisa GoodwinAllen has had a busy lockdown.

“We have been looking at different ways to bring the Northcote taste and experience to customers at home,” says Lisa. “Northcote at Home offers you the ultimate dinner party at home. You select three or five courses from our menu and one of our chefs will come and cook for you and your guests. We provide a waiter, the option of a sommelier and your choice from our extensive wine list, as well as all the crockery and cutlery.”

Northcote at Home can cater for celebrations of up to 50 guests in your home and larger events on request.

The new Northcote Click and Collect also brings customers luxury, traditional food at its very best as Lisa explains: “There are favourite starters such as a platter of hams, Northcote cheese bread and half a side of Gravlax. Mains include luxury pies including seafood using the very best scallops, prawns and salmon,

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HC 2 9 OT E TH J U O PE LY NS

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD Lisa Goodwin-Allen, executive chef of Michelin-starred Northcote restaurant tells Sarah Varley about her lockdown projects and the exciting new Northcote offerings or beef and ale using amazing local beef and locally brewed ale. The pies come in ovenware dishes for you to keep – you just have to turn on your oven!”

Lisa has also been working with Wellocks at Home on a Northcote Virtual Dining Experience for the weekend of 31st July.

“You can create a fine-dining three-course meal in your own kitchen with a luxury

Virtual Dining Experience with Northcote & Wellocks 31st July 2020

Create a fine-dining, three-course meal in your own kitchen, with a luxury box of quality ingredients supplied

by Wellocks and a link to a digital masterclass with Lisa Goodwin-Allen.

£65 for two Visit wellocksathome.co.uk for more information

box of all the quality ingredients you will need and a link to a digital masterclass with me cooking each course,” Lisa explains.

During lockdown Lisa also worked with Blackburn Youth Zone to support over 4,000 people via the Zone to Home campaign.

Over 500 boxes containing ingredients for a meal for four, with step-by-step instructions

by Lisa, were distributed to young people and their families.

“Northcote and Blackburn Youth Zone have always worked closely together.

To be able to collaborate and create a nutritious recipe for families was something that I had to be involved with,” Lisa says.

Lisa has also been busy creating new menus for Northcote, ready for re-opening on 29th July. Lisa’s Summer Five-Course Gourmet Menu celebrates some of the best produce of the season, including Isle of Wight tomatoes and Lake District lamb, onion sausage and sheep’s curd from

Leagram Organic Dairy just a few miles from Northcote. Lisa’s Strawberry Trifle concludes this celebration of summer produce, using organic strawberries from Annabel Makin-Jones’s Yorkshire farm.

“We have tried to use lots of British and local produce to help local businesses through this difficult time,” says Lisa.

“British farmers and growers have done a fantastic job feeding the nation and we really wanted to showcase all their amazing produce.”

Northcote at Home and Northcote Click & Collect Launches 5th August Visit northcote.com for more details

Northcote Northcote Road, Langho BB6 8BE 01254 240555 northcote.com

TAKE YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE TO ANOTHER LEVEL WITH A GOURMET ESCAPE AT NORTHCOTE

You can now enjoy the exclusivity The LuxuryinLancashire of Northcote your own homeHotel – the perfect solution if you love hosting and Michelin Star Restaurant dinner hate the stress Situated on parties the edge ofbut the beautiful Ribble Valley, of cooking.

Northcote’s ethos is all about food, wine, and great Northern hospitality. Our Gourmet Breaks are all the

Relax whilst the Northcote team take all the stress andGoodwin-Allen pressure of the planning, Lisa and a night toshopping, savour. cooking and deep cleaning, leaving your kitchen as if they had never been there! Experience stunning Michelin 4-COURSE GOURMET star food and matched wines or winesESCAPE from your own Relax in a stunning luxury room in the Manor House or a suite teambefore and spending have your personal chef inexperienced the Garden Lodge the own evening in the elegant restaurant. at home.

• Arrive at Northcote and check into one of the individually We willrooms create your perfect event, all you need styled

to decide on is the guest list:

• In the evening enjoy an aperitif in the stylish cocktail bar

/ Dinner party with friends • /Wake up to a traditional English breakfast or choose from Family lunch gathering the extensive alternatives menu. / Canapé party / Gourmet summer BBQ Based on two people sharing / Luxury afternoon from £310.00tea perparty room • Indulge in a 4-course Gourmet Menu in the restaurant

/ Fine food served by your own chef / Sommelier service, perfectly matched wines from the Northcote cellar or your own / Professional service – every little detail taken care of

Upgrade to a 6-course Tasting Menu– for more details. Or call to talk it through 01254 240 555 Visit northcote.com/ northcote-at-home Bookings room can be taken from Wednesday 5th August from £350.00 per Prices based on a classic room on a Sunday or Monday.

CLICK & COLLECT

Bringing some casual dining to your table, stay at home and enjoy some of Northcote’s classic dishes, including platters and pies.

Launching 5th August, it’s simple - pre-order and arrange a collection time.

Further details to be released in the next two weeks.

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Telephone: 01254 240 555 | www.northcote.com @NorthcoteUK | /NorthcoteUK | northcoteuk

TAKEAWAY OPEN TUESDAY – SUNDAY 4.30PM TILL 9PM LINES OPEN FROM 3PM DAILY

AWARD WINNING CHINESE FOOD

T O TAKE H O M E AN D EN JOY IN A R E LA XE D A N D E ASY WAY VEGAN

BLACKBEAN – CHILLI, PEPPERS, GARLIC

VEGETABLE SPRING ROLLS £3.95

FILLET STEAK £14.50

CHICKEN £9.50

VEGETABLE GYOZA £5.50

CHAR SIU PORK £9.50

KING PRAWN £12.50

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI TOFU & OYSTER MUSHROOMS £5.95

MARKET FRESH FISH

SPICY SINGAPORE VERMICELLI, BEANSPROUTS, SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS, PEPPERS £8.50 SPICY MALAYSIAN VEGETABLE FRIED RICE £8.50

FILLET OF SEABASS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £16.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI KING PRAWNS £12.50 WOK SEARED KING PRAWNS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £14.50

GLUTEN AND DAIRY FREE SALT & PEPPER WILD MUSHROOMS £5.95

CLASSIC HONG KONG SATAY

STIR FRIED PAK CHOI, SPRING ONION, GINGER, CHILLI £5.95

CHICKEN £9.50

KING PRAWN £12.50

STEAK SATAY £14.50

DUCK SATAY £12.50

STIR FRIED KING PRAWNS, PAK CHOI, GARLIC, CHILLI £12.50

SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN £9.50

SOUPS

KING PRAWN £12.50

CRISPY CHILLI CHICKEN £9.50

CHICKEN & SWEETCORN £5.50 HOT & SOUR SOUP £5.50

PORK £9.50

CRISPY CHILLI STEAK £14.50

SALT & PEPPER TRIPLE COOKED HAND CUT CHIPS £4.50

SMALL EATS

CRISPY SQUID £7.95

PRAWN CRACKERS £2.50

CHICKEN £9.50

CRISPY DUCK ROLLS £5.50 CHICKEN SPRING ROLLS £5.50 SALT & PEPPER CHICKEN WINGS £5.50 SALT & PEPPER CHILLI RIBS £7.50 SWEET STICKY CANTONESE RIBS £7.50 PORK CHIVE WAR TIP DUMPLINGS £5.95 SESAME PRAWN TOAST & SEAWEED £6.95 1/4 CRISPY DUCK & PANCAKES, CUCUMBER, HOI SIN SAUCE £14.50 CHARLIE YU’S (DAD’S) FAMOUS CURRY & CLASSICS KING PRAWN CURRY £11.50

CHICKEN CURRY £9.50

CHICKEN CHOW MEIN £9.50

SPECIAL CHOW MEIN £12.50

CHICKEN FRIED RICE £9.50 SPECIAL FRIED RICE – CHICKEN, KING PRAWN, CHAR SIU £10.50

COCKTAILS LYCHEE MARTINI

COSMOPOLITAN

PORN STAR MARTINI

SMALL (EQUIVALENT TO 2 COCKTAILS) £12.00 LARGE (EQUIVALENT TO 4 COCKTAILS) £20.00 FROZEN DAIQUIRI BEER

MELON £8.50

1 LARGE BEER £4.00

STRAWBERRY £8.50

3 LARGE BEERS £12.00

WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE WILL BE RE-OPENING THE RESTAURANT ON THURSDAY 6TH AUGUST 2020 TO BOOK PLEASE EMAIL NICK@YURESTAURANTS.CO.UK OR CALL US FROM 2PM ON 01254 240 665

Yu Copster Green 500 Longsight Road Copster Green BB1 9EU

01254 240665 www.yucopstergreen.co.uk

Invite someone for afternoon tea in a beautiful space with a friendly face. Open now for bookings!

www.jamesplaces.com/afternoon-tea

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The Ribble Valley is a genuine walker’s paradise with its gentle rolling countryside, wooded river valleys and some challenging hill walks for those with an appetite for adventure!

W

orking with some of the best-known eating establishments, Ribble Valley Borough Council has launched Walks with Taste. One of them starting, from the Shireburn Arms in Hurst Green, takes walkers on a route through woods and valleys then back to this traditional pub with its cosy log fires and relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

1. From the front door of the pub, turn left and, after 25 yards, take the farm track on the left along Lambing Clough Lane. Descend past the houses and over the cattle grids for half-a-mile and follow the track between farm buildings, bearing slightly right to follow the footpath along the edge of the woods which leads to the newly restored footbridge over the Ribble.

2. Cross the bridge then turn right and follow the riverbank path for half-a-mile to Marles Wood. Continue through the woods, to where the river widens into a picturesque lagoon.

3. Bear left following the path away from the river then after a short distance, just before the steps, take the footpath to your right down across a footbridge and up the other side to continue straight on through woods to the lane.

Turn right along the lane and continue past Salesbury Hall.

4. Follow the lane for three-quarters-ofa-mile to the bridge at Ribchester.

Take care crossing the bridge, and then turn right along a track following the Ribble Way footpath upstream.

5. Follow the lane to the farmyard, and turn right, down to the river where you bear left to follow the path upstream.

Continue for half-a-mile through a kissing gate and over a footbridge into the woods as the river meanders round to the right.

6. Soon after the right-hand bend in the river, the footpath leaves the riverside and climbs left through the woods and through a kissing gate onto open pastureland. Continue along the edge of the woods then head straight across the field, through the next gate.

7. After the gate, head slightly left across the field, slightly uphill, to a signpost on the edge of the coppice then continue over a stile in the corner of the field.

Go diagonally over the next field to a gate, to a track and turn right and then almost immediately left through a gate.

THE SHIREBURN ARMS Distance: 5.4 miles / 8.7km Time:

2½ to 3 hours

Moderate: 175m of ascent, occasionally rough and uneven with several stiles

Follow the left-hand field boundary as it curves round to reach a footbridge in the corner of the field.

8. Across the footbridge, follow the path along with the woodland on your left for 50 yards then head half right, diagonally across the field through a dry valley, to a stile next to an oak tree. Continue over the next field for 250 yards, descending to a stream, crossing a footbridge and following the path along the edge of the woods for 200 yards before crossing a stile, continuing across the field to return to Lambing Clough Farm.

9. Turn left into Lambing Clough Lane following it uphill and at the top turn right to the Shireburn Arms.

It is recommended that you contact the pub directly before visiting This walk has been reproduced with the kind permission of Ribble Valley Borough Council.

It forms a series of Walks with Taste that can be downloaded at: visitribblevalley.co.uk/ portfolio/walks-with-taste 01254 826678 shireburnarmshotel.co.uk visitribblevalley.co.uk

We’re back! Come and join us at THE FREEMASONS Wiswell from Friday, July 24th.

After an agonising wait, Steven and the Team at The Freemasons Wiswell can’t wait to welcome you back to enjoy once again the finest that Lancashire has to offer.

From July 24th, we’ll be opening our doors once again. In the meantime, we’ll be making sure all of the necessary measures are put in place to ensure we can operate safely for customers and staff members alike.

You can now book online for both the restaurant and our beautiful rooms.

Why not take advantage of one of our mid-week or gourmet packages and celebrate the start of Summer in style?

WIN WIN WIN

Freemasons at Wiswell 8 Vicarage Fold Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218 www.freemasonswiswell.com The Freemasons

2020

@wiswell chef

2020

2020

Culinary Excellence

When booking quote ‘LIVE RV’ to be in with a chance to win an overnight stay at the Freemasons with a 5 course signature dinner for two and breakfast.

T & C apply.

LUN C H A ND TE A TI ME TR E AT S 2 courses £13 • 3 Courses £17.50

Served Mon 12-2 and Tuesday - Friday 12-2 and 6-7

NEW OPENING TIMES FOR AUGUST A la carte and specials available lunch and evening Served Monday 12-2 and Tuesday to Saturday 12-2 and 6-9 Sunday lunch menu served 12-5 W E H AV E A N O U T D O O R S E A T I N G A R E A F O R F O O D A N D D R I N K S BOOK ING S ES S ENTIAL C ALL 01200 443339

3 Millstones Inn, Waddington Rd, West Bradford BB7 4SX

‘ I N D E P E N D E N T, F A M I L Y R U N R E S TA U R A N T ’

@3millstone

3millstone s .c o.u k

B O LT O N - B Y- B O W L A N D ROOMS - FOOD - ALE

A traditional Coaching Inn located in the idyllic village of Bolton-by-Bowland in an area of outstanding natural beauty and perfectly located for exploring the very best the Ribble Valley has to offer.

Visit our website for details www.coachandhorsesribblevalley.co.uk Coach & Horses, Main Street, Bolton-by-Bowland, BB7 4NW | 01200 447 331

WE’VE MISSED YOU!

To welcome you back we’re offering 20% DISCOUNT on rooms and dining with this advert* *T&C’s apply, please see our website.

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION

T

he new owners of the Black Bull Inn at Old Langho have enthusiastically brought back to life their village pub, which was first registered in 1555 as a coaching house.

The pub has well and truly been brought back into the 21st century and is once again the heart and soul of the local community.

Following four lengthy and extensive refurbishments, Jamie and Rebecca Govier have transformed the Black Bull Inn, ensuring they retained its original features while adding some contemporary details, including luxurious furniture and lighting, an extensive patio and artificially grassed beer garden and wood burning stoves which have now become stunning focal points in the bar and the beautifully restored Fire Barn restaurant.

The Black Bull Inn serves food seven days a week, which is described by Head Chef John Dawson as ‘a Classic British menu with a modern twist’ with influences from the Mediterranean and Asia: “We have a big focus on the best quality seasonal produce from locally sourced suppliers.”

Jamie and Rebecca add:“We are a gastro pub with green credentials, supporting amazing local producers so we know the provenance of the ingredients, which is essential.”

The Black Bull Inn has undergone a total transformation that has put the pub at the heart of the village. Photography: Kirsten Platt WE HAVE A BIG FOCUS ON THE BEST QUALITY SEASONAL PRODUCE FROM LOCALLY SOURCED SUPPLIERS

Diners can expect to find dishes such as belly pork with fondant potatoes, chorizo and a honey and thyme jus, along with a newly introduced black pudding hash brown starter and, of course, the pub’s popular Lancashire Bomb cheese and onion pie, not forgetting their spectacular Sunday roasts.

Please note that a limited menu is running until 1st August.

While visitors to the Black Bull Inn appreciate the delicious food and welcoming ambience, they also appreciate the extensive, yet discreet, safety measures that have been put in place during Covid 19.

A track and trace safety device has been installed that has facial recognition and takes the temperatures of all visitors. It also captures real-time data relating to each booking while providing hand sanitisation to every guest.

The Black Bull Inn was the first in the UK to feature this device: “The unit has been a significant investment, but it is a fantastic safety tool. Guests have said they feel really safe and reassured, which is vital if they want to enjoy their visit,” explains Jamie.

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There is also an unobtrusive one-way system and table service only in the pub and restaurant area.

“We have a real passion for the place,” says Rebecca, whose uncle Jim Holland has supported the couple in their dream to refurbish and re-open the pub, which also now features a newly-created outdoor bar and seating area.

The couple feel that since taking on their new Executive Director Katherine Renhard, they have added the final piece

WE HAVE ACHIEVED EXACTLY WHAT WE WANTED TO IN TERMS OF THE REFURBISHMENT AND REVIVING THE PUB – MAKING IT ONCE AGAIN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE

and craftsmen, who have helped with the refurbishment of the inn: “We would like to thank personally D H Builders RV Ltd who renovated and restored the Fire Barn and patio area, Robert James Shaw Décor for all the decorating and Paul Groves Joinery Services who did the refit of the bar and other extensive works.

“They have all done a great job and enabled us to achieve exactly what we wanted in terms of the refurbishment and reviving the pub – making it once again the heart of the village.”

to the jigsaw, combining an excellent venue and an outstanding food offering along with Katherine’s experience, keen eye for detail and unwavering passion for excellent customer service.

Being at the centre of the village and located directly next door to the luxury lodge park Ribble Valley View, with whom they work very closely, means that the Black

Bull Inn has become the buzzing hub of Old Langho: “We are almost like a club house for the lodge park,” adds Jamie. “It means a lot to us to have given the local community their pub back.”

With their first wedding scheduled for next year, these are exciting times for Jamie and Rebecca, who have issued a heartfelt thank-you to all the trades people

The Black Bull Inn Old Langho Road Old Langho, Blackburn BB6 8AW 01254 248801 enquires@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

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entertainment

ON SCREEN

Alice Burns takes a look at the latest blockbusters, readyto-stream films, Netflix exclusives and DVD releases

PROJECT POWER

FILM

Release Date: 14th August Director: Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jamie Foxx and Rodrigo Santoro Certificate:

One pill. Endless possibilities. On the streets of New Orleans, a new drug has gripped the city. A single tablet that gives the user instant superhuman abilities. The catch? You don’t know what they might be until it’s too late. Some develop super-strength, others incredible speed or invisibility. But not all powers are good. To prevent total anarchy as crime rates surge, a local cop, teenage dealer and ex-soldier team up to take down the drug that threatens the collapse of the city as they know it. The only way to do it? Take the pill themselves. Would you do it?

END OF SENTENCE

DVD

Release Date: 28th July Directors: Elfar Adalsteins Starring: John Hawkes, Logan Lerman, Sarah Bolger and Andrea Irvine Certificate:

After becoming a widower, Frank Fogle embarks on a journey across continents to scatter his late wife’s ashes, travelling from the US to a remote lake in Northern Ireland. However, her last request was that their estranged son, Sean must join him. Recently released from prison, Sean reluctantly accompanies his father on a bizarre roadtrip on the condition that his father buys him a ticket back to the West Coast and never sees him again. But between rediscovering old flames and collecting an intriguing hitchhiker, the journey opens up more possibilities than they had ever imagined.

MARRIAGE STORY

DVD

Release Date: 21st July Director: Noah Baumbach Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver, Laura Dern, Ray Liotta and Alan Alda Certificate:

From Academy-nominated Noah Baumbach is this compelling look at a marriage at breaking point. Somewhere halfway between ‘normal’, whatever that means, and ‘crazy’, however we define that, is a family that can either come together or break apart with it.

Indecisive, complex and brutally honest, Johansson and Driver star as a couple facing the challenging everyday-ness of life together, only to realise what it means to be apart. From each other, and perhaps most importantly, from family. How do we deal with emotions when we fall apart and try to put ourselves together again?

Marriage Story offers an insight into how we rebuild and heal.

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Longridge Gallery has some fantastic new artwork created by local and national artists during lockdown

NEW COLLECTIONS

“I

t’s great to be back!” This was Longridge Gallery owner Alistair Sheret’s overwhelming feeling when the gallery was allowed to open its doors again.

“We’ve really missed our customers and since we’ve re-opened they have said how much they have come to value local, independent retailers.”

The gallery has been busy since restrictions were lifted particularly framing textile projects completed during lockdown.

“The time at home has allowed customers to finish work they started some months previously,” explains Alistair.

The artists represented by the gallery have also been busy. There are fantastic new collections from local stars John Chapman, Steve Rostron and Ricky Young and incredibly collectable new editions from nationally recognised artists Fabian Perez, Doug Hyde, Leigh Lambert and Andrei Protsouk.

“Both Doug Hyde and Leigh Lambert launched new pieces during lockdown which both recognised the NHS. The sale of every print contributed to NHS charities – both pieces were massively over-subscribed and a considerable six-figure sum was raised.”

Before re-opening, the gallery conducted a rigorous Covid-19 safety audit so customers

and staff are safe.

“Our drive to ensure we work with our customers to secure that perfect new artwork or beautifully frame a piece of their own is unchanged.

“There are some wonderful paintings in the gallery so why not pay us a visit? For anyone concerned about safety, we are more than happy to provide consultations via FaceTime or Zoom or facilitate one-to-one consultations by appointment.”

UNLEASHING CREATIVITY Up to 100 Ribble Valley artists have unleashed their creativity over the past few months producing work as part of a themed community project

I

n what has turned out to be an uplifting project with a feel-good factor, artists throughout the region have been producing artwork and words in response to themes set by Ribble Valley Borough Council’s arts development team.

The mini-masterpieces from the Isolation Art project have been posted on the council’s

arts development Facebook page and are to be exhibited at the Platform Gallery, Clitheroe, at some point in the future.

Katherine Rodgers,the council’s arts development officer, said: “We believe creativity can unite people and support their mental health.

“And we wanted to shine a light on the fabulous artistic

talent in our borough, as well as encourage beginners to try their hand at something new.

“We have received nearly 100 submissions, including paintings, photography, poetry and print, and have been astounded by the quality, depth and breadth of work.”

Isolation Art was the idea of Sabden artist Dorothy Moore,

Longridge Gallery 78 Berry Lane Longridge Preston PR3 3WH 01772 782006 info@longridgegallery.co.uk longridgegallery.co.uk @Longridge Gallery TM

@longridgegall

who added: “I only started painting several years ago and as soon as I get a brush in my hand I feel uplifted.

“I find painting very comforting and thought it might do the same for others.

“I would encourage people to try their hand at art, because like me, they might be surprised at what they can achieve.”

Pictured left to right are works by Dorothy Moore, Frankie Freeman, Robert Sudall and Ada Hydes

ribblevalley.gov.uk/isolationart

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arts&culture

GLOBAL FOLLOWING With a global online following, young singer Tom Muldoon explains why he prefers entertaining live in front of an audience.

Photography: Carlos Rania of Carlos Photography, Clitheroe

A

s a 14-year-old schoolboy, Tom Muldoon posted a recording of himself singing Stand By Me on Facebook – his captivating online performance got in excess of 10 million views.

Testament to his talent, Tom now 19, is a professional singer, who continues to have a global following. However, he says: “While it’s really exciting to get so many views, I am mindful that I don’t just want to be an online singer. There are some unbelievably talented people online, who deserve success and recognition, but I think it’s important to engage and interact with your audience – build up a rapport.”

Having honed his vocal talents with a school swing band, musicals and charity performances in his Ribble Valley homeland, Tom, grew up in a musical household which saw him taking piano lessons from the age of five, followed later by drum

I CAN’T REMEMBER A TIME WHEN I WASN’T INVOLVED IN MUSIC and vocal lessons.

“My parents are musical – in fact my dad could have played professionally. He can play pretty much any instrument and he plays by ear, and my mum performed as a professional actor in earlier life.

“When I was very young I recall my dad creating a music CD for me. There were lots of different bands and singers including Michael Jackson. When I heard Black and White and Thriller I was amazed at the artistry and dynamism, even though I was only four or five years old.

I idolised him – he was a legend.

“I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t involved in music,” says Tom, who went to a local primary school before going

on to study at St Augustine’s, Billington, where he was Head Boy. “I was very proud to be Head Boy there.

It was like the culmination of everything that I had put into the school and my really happy time there.”

After sitting his GCSEs and coming to a crossroads in his life, Tom continued his studies at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School where he joined the school swing band: “I was studying for A levels but becoming involved in the music really emphasised how much I enjoyed it. Although I got satisfaction from achieving academically at school, deep down it didn’t fulfil me in the way that music has as my real passion” While still at school, Tom performed at Holmes Mill with friends to raise money for Barnabus, a Manchester-based homeless charity, which he continues to support – especially as their work has been even more crucial of late during the lockdown – including donation links on his website.

“Until then I had never really considered music as a profession but the feeling that I was doing something that I enjoyed and that other people were also enjoying was amazing.”

The following year, by coincidence Tom got his first singing residency at popular local venue, the Wellsprings: “Our car had broken down on the way to school and it was snowing on Pendle Hill. A 4x4 pulled up and the driver asked if we wanted a lift.

We got into conversation and as a ‘thank you’, I ended up offering to sing for free in their restaurant the following weekend.

I was booked to sing there every week after that.

“I began to develop more confidence as the more you sing the more you develop as a performer and you start engaging more with your audience.”

Despite gaining A levels in Economics, Maths and History, Tom made the decision

not to go to university, as he explains: “Music had highlighted the fact that I didn’t want an academic life. I wanted something creative, something that I enjoyed. It was a great escape for me, music gave me consistent happiness.”

Having left CRGS in 2019 and having set his sights on becoming a singer songwriter, Tom began to make the transition turning what had been a hobby, into a professional opportunity.

Inspired by the likes of Michael Buble, Tom’s distinctive style of singing performing classics from the swing era, timeless ballads, contemporary chart hits and original material, has made him a popular choice at local venues.

I WANT TO DEDICATE MY LIFE TO MUSIC AND THE PURSUIT OF THE HAPPINESS IT BRINGS While paying homage to a host of inspirational artists, Tom’s instinct is to refresh songs with his own personal style.

More recently he has joined forces with fellow St Augustine’s alumni Jamie Turner and Actual Music, a locally based record production and artist management company that uses the recording facilities at The Grand studio in Clitheroe.

“I get on really well with Jamie. Like me he is at the start of his journey so we have been recording a few songs and I’m pleased to say we have a growing social media following,” adds Tom. With his eye on the future, Tom eventually hopes to do more recording and maybe get a residency in London, or possibly further afield: “Going forward I genuinely want to develop myself and expand my repertoire for a wider audience.

“I am going to give it my best shot.

I am 19, I want to dedicate my life to music and the pursuit of the happiness it brings.”

tommuldoon.co.uk

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arts&culture

GOOD READ Lauren Molyneux curls up with a good book to review the latest best sellers

All That Man Is David Szalay

TOP PICK

A lonely youth is forced to discover himself whilst on holiday, a personal trainer turned security guard reflects on the path that has led him to his involvement in a far from legal international operation and a successful billionaire finds himself adrift as he lingers on the verge of losing everything. All That Man Is presents the story of nine different men, entirely unconnected aside from the fact that they share a gender and are each facing the question: ‘What is a man supposed to do now?’.

Providing an enthralling take on modern life that perfectly encapsulates the existential crisis and the overwhelming feeling of unfulfillment which hits with the realisation of failed dreams, Szalay expertly balances dread with hope to produce a novel which is sensitive and unflinchingly real.

Progressing through the stories of nine entirely different male characters, we’re thrown deep into the complex psychology of each. This isn’t just a musing on modern life, a snapshot into the thoughts and feelings of a few men dotted around the globe, it’s a cohesive exploration of the male psyche.

Offering a small vision of life in the shoes of men who are each existing at various stages, All That Man Is perfectly encapsulates just that. A novel about male desire, lust, life, longing and failure, David Szalay’s fourth novel is both intense and intricate, throwing focus onto even the most minute of happenings in order to paint a detailed and textured masterpiece.

The Authenticity Project Clare Pooley ‘Everyone lies about their lives. What would happen if you shared the truth instead?’

Clare Pooley’s chart-topping debut novel shares the lives and secrets of a group of unlikely friends, brought together via a social experiment entitled The Authenticity Project.

Once a successful artist, prominent on the social scene of East London in the swinging sixties, Julian Jessop awakes one day to find himself an old widower. With his days of wild parties and celebrity dinner dates behind him, he’s resolved to live out his remaining days shuttered up in his home, with his paintings and eccentric clothes the only things interested in keeping his company.

That is until he has an idea that will help him to confront himself, and hopefully alleviate some of his loneliness in the process.

In a quest to become as ‘authentic’ as possible, Julian writes out some home truths about himself, and leaves his notebook on the table in a coffee shop close to his home. From there, The Authenticity Project finds itself in the hands of a host of people, all of whom submit their desires, secrets and truths to the notebook, and all of whom will be intimately connected as a result.

The Authenticity Project has great shelf appeal. But whilst it offers an intriguing premise, it unfortunately fails to deliver. Whilst Pooley aims to highlight the value in authenticity and honesty, her characters are largely underdeveloped and, ironically, lack originality. All seem to be playing out versions of a shallow stereotype, offering corny dialogue and cliched circumstances which lack creative thought and are poorly paced. Whilst critics have revered the novel for its uplifting story, warmth and humour, I was left disappointed with a novel which promised to be engaging, entertaining and a big success, but definitely missed the mark.

V #LO

E&

GH LAU

TER

One of our favourite comments from our guests is that when they think of Gilpin, they think of love and laughter – ours, and theirs – which is such a lovely compliment. At the heart of Gilpin is a passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for our guests, who return time and again for romance, celebrations and escapes. For us, hospitality starts with a very warm welcome and ends with a friendly goodbye, with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences in between. We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

If you’re looking for something to read in the meantime...

BOOK REVIEW

If you can’t actually be at Gilpin Hotel in the Lake District, then being transported there is the next best thing.

Instead of a dry, official history, owner John Cunliffe’s memoir charts how idyllic memories of holidaying at Gilpin with his grandmother just after the war turned into a slightly eccentric passion, and finally a thriving business.

Many visitors have been called back to this enchanting spot, but none so powerfully as that small boy, who, following a career in the hotel business spanning New York, Jamaica and the City of London, could eventually, with his wife Chris, buy back Gilpin and create something truly special.

Honest, funny and always clear-eyed about the sheer hard work that goes into this kind of obsession, and full of insights into the unique challenges of sustaining that rarest of spots – a great family-run hotel – Slightly Perfect does justice to Gilpin and a life in hospitality.

Olivia Cole Literary Editor, British GQ Winner of its category and close runner up to Lakeland Book of the Year 2020 “Slightly Perfect by John Cunliffe... an entertaining memoir of a life in hospitality including his time at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House.”

Available in hardback at www.slightlyperfect.co.uk, or on Kindle via Amazon Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk

015394 88818

www.thegilpin.co.uk

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property

BID TO AID PROPERTY BOUNCE-BACK New Government initiatives are set to kickstart the housing market which will have a knock-on effect on other parts of the economy

B

uoyant estate agents and mortgage lenders are reporting jumps in interest from prospective buyers who have had time to reflect and reassess their lives and where they live.

This has led to many asking themselves if their current home meets their needs, especially as many more of us could be working from home.

On a financial basis, consumers need confidence to make a decision to move home, whether that’s to downsize, move from renting to owning or moving to a home that better suits their needs.

Earlier this year the Royal Institute for Chartered Surveyors (RICS) called for a stamp duty holiday to help stimulate the home buying and selling market, so the recent announcement by Chancellor Rishi Sunak that there will be no stamp duty to pay on property purchases up to £500,000 until 31st March 2021, has been broadly welcomed.

Stamp duty land tax, to give it its proper name, is a tax paid by someone who purchases a property or piece of land in England – Scotland and Wales have their own systems. The tax is paid when the sale is completed and is based on the sum paid.

Prior to the recent statement, there were two different points at which stamp duty was payable. Stamp duty had to be paid on

any property costing more than £125,000 with first-time buyers being exempt unless a property cost more than £300,000.

So what will change?

The starting threshold will be increased to £500,000 on all sales taking place before 31 March 2021. The starting rate above £500,000 will be five per cent and will apply to the part of the sale up to £925,000.

The Chancellor’s announcement is part of the Government initiative to try to kick start the economy after weeks of lockdown.

Understandably, the housing market has a knock-on effect on other parts of the economy. As well as everyone employed in the property sector estimates suggest that moving house drives spending equal to about five per cent of the property’s value.

Across the UK many are preparing to spend more time at home, for our work as well as leisure and the benefits of green home improvements will continue to gather momentum, including the need to make improvements to decrease bills.

There is an urgent need to improve the energy efficiency of both commercial and residential buildings, which at the moment contributes significantly to our national energy use and carbon emissions.

New build housing, which has been subject to increasing energy efficiency standards only accounts for a small per centage of the UK building stock so the Government has recognised the need to accelerate the pace of decarbonising the UK’s housing to meet net-zero targets.

So, whether you are looking for a new home that best suits your current needs or looking to adapt your home to make it greener and more efficient, now is the best time act.

STONES YOUNG SAY YES TO A NEW OFFICE IN CLITHEROE!

C

ustomer service-focused estate agents Stones Young are already offering a warm welcome to clients since opening their doors on Moor Lane in Clitheroe (opposite Sainsburys).

Proud winners of the prestigious British Property Awards in Blackburn for the last three years and also voted best estate agent for customer service in the North West for 2019, this team of qualified professionals are confident of emulating their success in Clitheroe.

Heading up the new office is Sarah Fielding from Chatburn, who together with Rebecca Bradshaw from Clitheroe, boast over 25 years’ experience in the industry and have extensive knowledge of Clitheroe and the surrounding areas.

Stones Young Sales & Lettings have now brought their award-winning service to the Ribble Valley

Mortgage specialist Phil Young and protection expert Nick Walmsley will accompany Sarah and Rebecca at the new office ensuring that all aspects of moving home are covered.

To celebrate the launch, Stones Young have partnered with Loom Loft Furniture & Interiors at Barrow Brook – any new properties listed with Stones Young Clitheroe office during July, August and September are in with a chance of winning a £1,000 voucher to be used in the prestigious store.

A perfect combination and exciting times ahead!

To book in your free market appraisal call Sarah or Rebecca on 01200 408408

Gleneagles Drive, Old Langho £550,000

Highwoods Park, Old Langho £450,000

Pendle Drive, Whalley £375,000

Outstanding Detached Family Home Five Spacious Bedrooms Gated Brockhall Village Development Stylish Internal Décor Gorgeous Landscaped Gardens Driveway Parking Detached Garage

Exceptional Family Home Four Excellent Bedrooms Ribble Valley Location Gated Brockhall Village Development Stunning Kitchen/Diner Enviable Gardens Driveway Parking

Impressive Detached Family Home Attractive Position on Established Development Four Excellent Bedrooms Luxurious En-suite Shower Room Superb Modern Fitted Kitchen with Appliances Beautiful Landscaped Gardens & Patio

Wheatcroft Avenue, Fence £365,000

Dale View, Billington £249,950

Wilson Street, Clitheroe £150,000

Impressive Stonebuilt Detached Bungalow Beautiful Private Corner Plot Position Two Spacious Receptions Sizeable Fitted Breakfast Kitchen & Utility Three Double Bedrooms Desirable Cul-de-Sac Village Location Outstanding Landscaped Gardens

Beautiful Modern Detached Bungalow Tucked Away Cul-de-Sac with Lovely Outlooks Impressive Light & Airy Internal Accommodation Open Plan Lounge with Pitched Ceiling Modern Kitchen with Appliances & Dining Area Two Contemporary En-suite Shower Rooms Two Double Bedrooms Landscaped Garden & Patios

Impressive Stonebuilt End Terrace House Sizeable Extended Family Accommodation Three Double Bedrooms & Large Attic Room Lounge, Dining Room & Modern Kitchen Pleasant Rear Patio Garden & Detached Garage Convenient Location Close to Town Centre

www.stonesyoung.co.uk

50 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB7 1AJ 01200 408408 clitheroe@stonesyoung.co.uk

The Old Post Office,740 Whalley New Rd, Blackburn, BB1 9BA 01254 682470 enquiries@stonesyoung.co.uk

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PERFECT LOCATION Bowland View is a small new luxury development in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside

T

rusted and long-standing luxury family home builder Westbridge Developments brings to the Ribble Valley another unique and aweinspiring development of three large family homes, within the truly unique, elevated open countryside location of Gisburn.

Westbridge are well known for their high-end finish and were responsible for

the exclusive Bennetts Close development in Whalley. A luxury home builder for over 30 years, these large and exquisite family homes enjoy an envious location in the heart of the Ribble Valley Countryside.

Bowland View is a luxury private gated community of three bespoke detached homes within this highly desirable area.

These individual plots of approximately half an acre each are tucked away from the noise of everyday life and offer outstanding elevated and panoramic views across open countryside. With four double-bedrooms, the properties will provide a true sanctuary for their new owners.

Each property is set behind its own gated, private driveway, built in stone and crafted to the highest standard with oak doors, a beautiful oak staircase, along with a luxury kitchen and bathrooms which are fully tiled with many more rich features.

Along with the calm surroundings, Bowland View offers excellent transport links to Manchester and beyond.

Bowland View is available to you with the benefit of ANY part exchange.

In a nutshell, One Stop Property will purchase your existing home, allowing you to purchase one of these last two remaining family homes chain and stress free.

For more info or to arrange a private viewing, please contact One Stop Property on 0161 425 7878 or email:Â hello@onestoppropertysolutions.com

by

HOM E S FOR F R E E -R A NGE H U M A NS

Luxury bespoke rural homes now available Call 07375 301 845 to arrange an appointment or visit

liveatthewarren.co.uk

Ballam Oaks in Lytham An EXCLUSIVE selection of 12 creatively designed houses built to exacting standards – a testimony to Windmill Homes’ consistent and continuing traditions of strong craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The properties are located within walking distance of the amenities of Lytham, which include, bars, cafes, restaurants, independent shops and the renowned Lytham Green, yet with convenient access to the M55.

ONLY THREE REMAINING INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED H OMES N OW A VA ILA B LE, Combination of handmade bricks and cedar weatherboarding, substantial insulation, solid hardwood windows, oak doors and features throughout.

circulation exchange arrangements, Sonos sound, Wi-Fi,

hand crafted kitchens, utility and boot room, Villeroy & Boch bathrooms, shower rooms and en-suites. NHBC cover.

The Old Bakery | Green Street | Lytham | FY8 5LG 01253 736601 sails@windmillgroup.org.uk windmillgroup.org.uk

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property Both having a background originally in engineering, the attention to detail and focus on the latest systems, software and innovative marketing techniques is central to the service offered by Hilton and Horsfall: “We do everything in house and only use professional photographs,” adds Gavin.

“A high success rate and client satisfaction is at the core of our business philosophy.”

“We treat every property as though it is our own and adopt a professional caring approach to the process of buying and selling that makes us stand out in the sector,” says Mark.

PROPERTY DONE PROPERLY Award-winning estate agents Hilton and Horsfall have a wealth of experience and extensive knowledge of the property market, writes Gail Bailey

H

ilton and Horsfall are an independent estate agent based in Barrowford who offer a first class, friendly service to clients in the Ribble Valley, Pendle, Burnley and across Lancashire.

“We are passionate about property,” says Company Director Gavin Hilton, who along with Co-Director Mark Horsfall founded the business in 2007, having over 30 years’ combined experience between them. Mark adds: “We have developed an extensive knowledge of the local property market enabling us to offer a wide-ranging service that is both friendly and professional as befits our reputation.”

Hilton and Horsfall’s commitment to providing clients with an individual, high quality experience has recently been recognised by the British Property Awards where they received the accolade of being a Gold Winner: “We have all the traditional values you would expect from a well-established firm.

Combined with the latest innovations and technology, we offer a modern quality service supported by a dedicated sales and lettings team,” explains Gavin.

WE USED HILTON AND HORSFALL TO SELL OUR HOUSE AND THE EXPERIENCE WAS OUTSTANDING FROM THE VALUATION TO THE DAY OF COMPLETION With over 18,000 followers on social media, and property search engines which are updated daily, it is no surprise that Hilton and Horsfall have recently had their busiest June on record. Using innovative ways to market and communicate with clients, including high definition virtual tours along with their stunning property brochures, Hilton and Horsfall are fast becoming the number one choice for buying, selling and letting.

With an excellent rating on Trust Pilot, it is fitting to leave the final word to one of their many satisfied customers: “We used Hilton and Horsfall to sell our house and the experience was outstanding from the valuation to the day of completion.

Would highly recommend! Brilliant team.

Thank you!”

Get in touch if you are looking to buy, sell, or let a residential or commercial property:

Hilton and Horsfall 75 Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX Burnley & Pendle 01282 560024 Ribble Valley 01200 435667 info@hilton-horsfall.co.uk hilton-horsfall.co.uk

property

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LUXURY LIVING Hilton and Horsfall are pleased to market this outstanding detached residence in Barrowford, completely refurbished and extended, offering approximately 5,500 square feet of accommodation

H

ill Carr is a stunning home, which has been transformed by the current owners to offer exceptional accommodation.

Designed for the 21st century home buyer, the specification of this gated-entry home is hard to beat with a heated swimming pool, cinema with surround-sound speakers and a stunning kitchen with Corian work surfaces and in-built NEFF appliances. The highlights to this property are endless.

This family home has a large games room with a bar area, which overlooks the superb pool. Absolutely fantastic for use throughout the year, the large heated swimming pool area has underfloor heating, an integrated SONOS audio system, concealed LED colour changing lighting, a separate jacuzzi with feature LED lighting, and indoor gym and bar to the rear. A further feature is the full-length windows and doors opening out to the fabulous sun terrace and garden allowing the outside in during the summer months.

There are five reception rooms and a large utility area, a spectacular garden room, sitting room, a stunning lounge, the cinema room and a huge games room with an inbuilt bar. Three out of the four bedrooms have the added benefit of spectacular ensuite bathrooms.

Hill Carr enjoys a large sweeping driveway with a lawned turning circle and

provides parking for a number of vehicles.

Surrounding the property, the gardens have been professionally landscaped with a large wrap-around sun terrace and a fantastic garden pavilion and gazebo, which has lighting and heating. The garden is flanked by mature trees and hedging and enjoys an approximate 2.2 acre plot. In addition, beyond the garden, a gate leads to two timber stables and shelter, all on a concrete pad, with power and water installed. Off this area is a piece of land of 5.5 acres (available by separate negotiation) with a track leading to large gates opening onto the main road.

If you are interested in this amazing home, then enquire for further details, or to arrange a viewing:

Hilton and Horsfall 75 Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX Burnley & Pendle 01282 560024 Ribble Valley 01200 435667 info@hilton-horsfall.co.uk hilton-horsfall.co.uk

Whalley 01254 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine & Countr y Head Office 121 Park Lane , Mayfair, London W1K 7AG

WOODLAND BROOK, MELLOR BROOK

£575,000 - £625,000 NEW PRICE - £1,350,000

FELLSIDE FARM, GRINDLETON

NOW - ONLY THREE PLOTS Five high luxuryviews homes onRibble an exclusive development within This*SHOW exceptionalHOME detached stone builtOPEN farmhouse with additional extension lies inREMAINING* a stunning elevated position withspecification magnificent 180 degree over the Valley countryside and will appeal to the equestrian enthusiast as the These property five-bedroom includes approximately 9 acres offamily adjoininghomes land and aare largestunning stable and garage block with for three horses garaging for six Farm has been the Ribble Valley. detached in design andstabling presentation andand inspection willvehicles. not Fellside disappoint.

The finished with high and fixtures together with a wealth of solid ash have joineryan andexcellent although contemporary in character it has retained mostquality of its original beamsfinished and trusses. homes are quality built fitments by well-respected Hearles Builders who track record for producing high houses toThe aninternal exacting accommodation includes reception hallway, sitting room, dining room, farmhouse kitchen and study/sitting room to the ground floor and master bedroom suite with en-suite shower room and dressing room, specification. Call today to book a viewing. EPC - B three further bedrooms, family bathroom and a second lounge to the first floor, whilst the adjoining annexe includes a shower room, sauna, games room and double garage. EPC Rating D

ARCHWAY HOUSE, SAWLEY £600,000

BROWFOOT, HOLDEN £975,000

Archway house is a beautiful four-bedroom Grade II listed property Browfoot is a superb, five-bedroom detached family home, in an Area which occupies a central yet private position in the popular village of of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the Trough of Bowland. The Sawley. The house has been lovingly restored and extended during house stands in a semi-rural location in the hamlet of Holden, on the £1,100,000 HUBBERSTY FOLD FARM, BALDERSTONE the current ownership with period features such as stone mullioned outskirts of Bolton-by-Bowland near Clitheroe. This spacious and wellOf interest to both the agricultural and equine purchaser; a delightfully located modern detached farmhouse with adjoining barn, garaging and approximately 31 acres of adjoining gardens and agricultural land. and beamed in abundance.

Thefarmhouse property is madegaragepresented offers accommodation occupies Thewindows property comprises a recentlyceilings renovatedare and extended six bedroom and detached block set in anproperty acre of formal gardensflexible together family with a detached stone built barnand benefitting from up ofpermission two parts, first part is 16th the second partinternal beingfloor thearea inaexcess private andsquare attractive setting grounds withon planning for itsthe conversion to provide a fivecentury, bedroom dwelling with a gross of 4,000 feet. Hubbersty Foldwith Farmmature is perfectlygardens positioned and in a quiet rural location extension.

Realistically priced by our motivated EPC Cmiles delightful rural views. EPC – miles E from the centre of Preston where there are a wide thesubstantial edge of the popular RibbleValley village of Balderstone, approximately 1.5 milesseller. from the A59,–5.5 from the centre of Blackburn, and 7.5 range of services and amenities including rail services to Manchester.The M6 and M65 and the wider motorway network are all within easy reach of the property. EPC Rating D

www.fineandcountry.com Scan me with your smart phone to view the listed properties online.

RIBBLE VALLEY HODDER VALLEY EAST LANCASHIRE

Whalley Whalley01254 01254828922 828922 whalley@fineandcountry.com whalley@fineandcountry.com

Fine Fine& &Countr Countr y yHead HeadOffice Office121 121Park ParkLane Lane , Mayfair, , Mayfair, London London W1K W1K7AG 7AG

THE STABLES, BARNOLDSWICK £875,000

HIGHER GREYSTONELEY FARMHOUSE, LEAGRAM £900,000

This superb detached property occupies an elevated position with **CHAIN FREE** This substantial family home is set in a stunning location stunning long-distance views towards the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a rare with outstanding long-distance views to the front and rear. Modern in NEW PRICEthere - £1,350,000 £525,000 FELLSIDE DEO FAVENTE, FARM, GRINDLETON MERECLOUGH opportunity to acquire beautifully presented five-bedroom family home design and construction and beautifully presented throughout, are ThisAexceptional lovely barn detached conversion stone which built is easily farmhouse maintained with additional and occupies extension a very lies pleasant in a stunning semi-rural elevated location position on thewith outskirts magnificent of the 180 village degree of Mereclough views overinthe Cliviger, Ribble with Valley easy countryside access to the andmotorway will appealnetworks to the for with high quality equestrian facilities. The stables have been substantially five bedrooms and three reception rooms as well as a contemporary equestrian Manchester enthusiast (M65/66 as the - 10property minutes)includes and Leeds approximately (M62 - 20 minutes), 9 acres ofand adjoining just 4.5land milesand from a large Burnley stable Town and Centre. garage block Recently withupgraded stabling for andthree improved horsesbyand thegaraging currentfor owners six vehicles. this delightful Fellsideresidence Farm has offers been internal renovated, upgraded andandimproved in recent years and immaculately dining kitchen whichit has is L-shaped sure tomost impress.

Therebeams is kitchen, anandintegral garage, large finished accommodation with high quality of immense fitmentscharacter fixtures with together many quality with afeatures wealth of throughout solid ash joinery and comprises; and although entrance contemporary porch, hallway, in character sitting room, retainedlounge ofand its dining originalroom, trusses. utility, master The internal bedroom with enpresented and out.andhallway, Equestrian facilities include stone built stable garden a bathroom. field approximately 2 sloping 1/4 inand sale. accommodation suite sitting inside area, includes dressing reception area bathroom, sittingthree room, further diningbedrooms room, farmhouse (two with kitchen en-suites), and study/sitting box room/study roomand toand the family ground floorofand De master Faventebedroom lies in gently suite with acres en-suite gardensincluded shower which include room athe large dressing sun patio room, and a block, foaling stable,family tack room / workshop.

9.5first acres.

EPC –C D Viewing essential tosauna, appreciate theand location and EPC views.

EPC three lawned further area bedrooms, bordered by open bathroom farmland, and inaaddition second lounge to aCirca detached to the garage. floor, EPC whilst Rating the adjoining annexe includesisa shower room, games room double garage.

Rating D –C

ASHES FARM, WHITECHAPEL £1,150,000

SANDALWOOD, BALDERSTONE £750,000

Ashes Farm is a beautiful Grade II listed, five-bedroom family home Sandalwood is a stunning semi-detached stone-built barn conversion in set within approximately 13 acres offering a superb rural lifestyle with a convenient yet private and tranquil location. Vestibule, 2pc cloakroom, excellent access to local services and the national road and rail network. inner hallway, lounge, family room, dining room, study, fitted dining £1,100,000 £499,950 HUBBERSTY FAR HILLOCK FOLD FARM, FARM, BLACKSNAPE BALDERSTONE This stunning period property is located intoWhitechapel with Beacon kitchen, utility barn, room, guest bedroom with 3pc en-suite shower room towns Of An interest attractive to both attached the agricultural stone builtand farmhouse equine purchaser; dating back a delightfully the 18th located century, modern situateddetached in an idyllic farmhouse rural location with adjoining in the heart ofgaraging the West and Pennine approximately Moors, providing 31 acres country of adjoining living gardens but with andeasy agricultural access toland. fell asamenities. its backdrop. property five miles from Longridge, popular off.block First floor landing, games room/second lounge, master Theand property comprises Ideal foraThe equestrian recently renovated use, Far is Hillock and extended Farm includes six bedroom land extending farmhouse toaand approximately detached garage 4 acres, a large setyard in anarea acre and of formal a substantial gardens detached together stable withblock a detached with three stoneloose built boxes barnbedrooms benefitting and tack room, from in market town.

M6/M55 motorway network 5.7dwelling miles away which has 3pc en-suite, Two Fold further and in4pc bathroom. planning addition permission to a good forsized its conversion garden, whilst to provide the internal a fiveaccommodation bedroom comprises; with a gross entrance internal hall, floor cloakroom, areawith in excess utility, lounge, ofShower 4,000 dining square room, feet.dining Hubbersty kitchen, rearFarm porch/pantry, isbedrooms perfectlyfour positioned bedrooms aand quiet two rural bathrooms. location on The access tothe the West Coast line and thePennine national network Double garage. are attractive formal mainly laid theproperty edge of enjoys popular superb Ribble panoramic Valleymain village views ofofBalderstone, the West approximately Moorsmotorway and 1.5 miles offersfrom plenty the ofA59, opportunity 5.5 miles for from quiet theenjoyment centre of There Blackburn, such as walking, and 7.5 cycling, milesand from sampling the centre localgardens ofproduce Prestoninwhere the area's there public are aplus houses, wide via the M6. and EPC – Manchester Exempt 1-acreEntwistle paddock.

EPC -D range restaurants of services and cafes. amenities including Cityrail Centre services is also to Manchester. within easyThe reach, M6 taking and M65 just 35 and minutes the wider frommotorway nearby network Station are all on within the Blackburn-Bolton-Manchester easy reach of the property. EPCline.

Rating EPCDRating E

www.fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com Scan Scan me me withwith youryour smart smart phone phone to view to view thethe listed listed properties properties online. online.

RIBBLE RIBBLE VALLEY VALLEY HODDER HODDER VALLEY VALLEY EAST EASTLANCASHIRE LANCASHIRE

Pendleton Asking price ÂŁ975,000

A substantial five-bedroom barn conversion offering spectacular views over open countryside.

Knowle Green Asking price ÂŁ625,000

A three-bedroom character cottage with land, stables all in a highly desirable village location.

Blacko Asking price ÂŁ1,000,000

A beautiful stone barn conversion set in wonderful grounds.

Bolton-by-Bowland Asking price ÂŁ575,000

A superb property offering flexible and spacious accommodation throughout.

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TRANSFORMING YOUR HOME We have all recently spent an unprecedented amount of time both at home and with family. We have had to adapt the space we have

O

ur homes have been needed for different uses by different family members at once.

Whether you have had time off work, worked on your health and fitness, had to home school your children, or run your business from your dining table, you will have had chance to see if your home actually works for you and your ‘new normal’.

Take some time out to analyse what works and does not work about your home... what do you love and what could be improved?

Moving forward out of lockdown there may be positives you may want to integrate into your life permanently, such as working from home, a healthy routine, or moving

an elderly relative into your home and what may have worked before, may no longer work for your new lifestyle.

RE-CONFIGURING THE LAYOUT CAN IMPROVE THE FUNCTIONALITY, FLOW, LIGHT AND USE SPACE MORE EFFICIENTLY As we now spend more time at home, you may want to make improvements to your property so it meets your new requirements. Re-configuring the layout can improve the functionality, flow, light and use space more efficiently.

Each of our projects at ZMA are bespoke to the client’s requirements, which makes each scheme unique. We ask our clients for a wish-list, a budget and then we do the rest.You may want to re-design your property to improve the connection to the garden, convert your garage, create an annexe, home office, additional bedrooms or incorporate a hobby such as a new swimming pool, home gym, games room or equestrian facility.You may even have additional out-buildings or land that we can assess the feasibility of utilising to create your required accommodation.

Contact a member of our team for your free consultation to discuss how you can begin your own home transformation project

Zara Moon Architects We Transform Sites, Buildings & Lives 13 New Market Street Colne BB8 9BJ 01282 908440 info@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Remaining together, whilst staying apart.

I think we are all in agreement that 2020 hasn’t quite been the year we expected, but the response and resilience of our staff, pupils and parents through this time has made us prouder than ever.

We have done everything we can to ensure our pupils’ education carries on as normal, maintaining a full curriculum taught by specialist staff for all pupils from Year 2 to Year 10 using live online lessons and video. We have encouraged whole class, small group and one-to-one teaching to supplement the resources and activities we have provided online, or delivered to our pupils’ homes.

Pupil and parent well-being has been hugely important to us, so we have continued to run activities and competitions to lift spirits and strengthen relationships.

We have engaged directly with parents and pupils weekly, to keep them going through difficult times.

After being tried and tested these past few months, we can confidently say we have succeeded in maintaining the highest standard of education for our pupils without interruption, and when we return it will be to continue with the same full curriculum we have worked hard to provide throughout.

How we have exceeded expectations during the Coronavirus pandemic: No teacher has been furloughed and all are providing lessons as per the normal timetable Prep pupils continue to receive all subjects (not just core), including RE, French, Music, Computing, DT and Art Some teachers have been to visit their pupils at their homes, checking in with them from a distance and making sure they are coping as well as can be working from home Parents receive weekly feedback (often more than once a week), and staff are providing one-to-one chats for pupils with problems or who are just feeling low We have consulted parents constantly and taken their views into consideration when making decisions

Interested in enroling your child at Oakhill?

Whether they are starting out at nursery or transitioning from another school, we are here to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible for both you and your child.

For more information please email spencer.s@oakhillschool.co.uk or call the school on 01254 823546.

WE’RE NOW OPEN FOR YOU AGAIN!

BETTER TOGETHER SINCE 1877