Colne Life Winter 2023-24 B5 Iss 57 Digital Edition

ColneLife

FREE

WINTER 2023/24

ISSN 2514-7927

YOU R TOW N, YOU R M AGA ZINE

TRAWDEN’S

TRIUMPH

Christmas AROUND THE WORLD HAVE YOURSELF A

DIY

CHRISTMAS

WORD on the

STREET

FOOD for FREE

Wi n t e r WHAT ON ’S GU IDE

Plus.... HOME & GARDEN • FOOD & DRINK • HEALTH • COMPETITIONS

ColneLife WINTER 2023/24

22

EDITOR’S LETTER ColneLife is on the move… but don’t worry we aren’t going far we’re relocating just down the road to Standroyd Mill on Cotton Tree Lane.

In this issue, we meet our new neighbour, Steven Wilcox BEM, who was recently awarded the British Empire Medal for ‘Services to the Community.’ Steve headed up efforts with the village’s residents to save Trawden’s community centre, library, shop and pub. We learn more about the work that earned Steve a BEM and even encouraged a family to move from Somerset to become part of the community.

We also get out and about to meet and greet the new businesses cropping up on the high street – there are plenty of new faces, all offering something different, from a pet hotel to the legendary local dish, stew n’ hard; with our latest, ‘Word on the Street.’

After meeting all those new faces, I was meeting a familiar one! My dentist, Dr Tom Friar, at Skipton Road Dental Practice, to discover his exciting plans for expansion and I take great pleasure in placing him in the hot seat for once!

Despite the cold weather, we wrapped up warm and headed out for a wander with Pete Compston who runs Pendle Plant Craft. Pete shares his foraging knowledge with us and provides his top tips to discover a winter bounty within your local surroundings. Free food! Who doesn’t love free food?

The team at ColneLife would like to wish all our readers, advertisers and contributors a Happy Christmas.

We look forward to bringing you more stories in 2024.

41

WHAT’S IN IT? FEATURES

4 Views and Good News 10 Trawden Triumphs 13 Geoff Crambie’s First Class Delivery 18 Word On The Street 22 Meet Dr Tom - Dentist 24 Neologisms New Words of 2023 27 Competition Time 29 Christmas Crafts 32 Christmas Around the World 35 Deck the Halls with DIY 65 Coach Lindsay: Empowering Our Children With Affirmations 71 Beating Crime in Colne with Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson 72 Colner Down Under 75 What’s On

FOOD AND DRINK

39 Share the Good Times 43 Santa’s Top Tipples 47 Food for Free

32

10

18

HOME AND GARDEN

Cover image: dobbies.com

Issue 57

ColneLife

Designed and produced by Loop Publishing Ltd

51 Natrally Neutral Christmas 57 Cosy On Up 61 Low Cost Hacks for Lazy Gardeners If you’d like ColneLife delivered to your door for just £5.99 per year call 01282 861982 or go to store.northernlifemagazine.co.uk 2B Standroyd Mill, Cotton Tree Lane, Colne. BB8 7BW Lancashire.

Tel: 01282 861982 colnelifemagazine.co.uk Editor - Karen Shaw • Design - Chris Pearson, Vikki Lawton Sales - Lee Banks, Rebecca McGhee Editorial team - Laura Storey, Isobel Gostling

CL 3

13

ColneLife

VIEWS & GOOD NEWS Pendleside Hospice celebrates its

‘Councillors’ Tom, Ade Mason and Charlie

35th anniversary

Kids Rule

T

he Colne Junior Council met on October 12th to appoint new council leaders.

Congratulations to Tom, who is now the Chairperson, Ade, who takes on the role of Vice Chairperson, Mason, now the Secretary, and Charlie, who will serve as the Treasurer. This was only the council’s second gathering, and the young students from local Colne primary schools spent the day giving speeches, despite their initial nervousness, and participating in the election process.

Andrew Peers, headteacher at Christchurch Primary said, “I hope that all the children came back to school feeling empowered to begin to make change now that they have been elected into posts etc. They have come back with some things to discuss for the next meeting.”

The council has decided to focus on Parks, the Environment, and Road Safety, and the children are currently brainstorming ideas to enhance these aspects in their local community.

We eagerly anticipate the Junior Council’s efforts in using their voices to bring about improvements.

P

endleside Hospice has come a long way since its inception in 1988. It wouldn’t be where it is today if it wasn’t for local pioneer, founder and chairman of Pendleside Hospice, Miss Muriel Jobling MBE. Realising the lack of support in the local area after seeing her cleaner suffer facial cancer, Miss Jobling made it her mission to build a safe space for those in need of palliative care, as well as ongoing support and treatment.

Miss Jobling passed away in 2019 and has left a legacy in her wake, building the Hospice from a small daycare unit with limited space to a 10-bed inpatient centre, various day therapy sessions, and a 24-hour hospice Muriel Jobling MBE. at-home service.

If you wish to support Pendleside, you can do so in many ways. You can donate directly by visiting www.pendleside.org.uk, taking part in one of their upcoming events, or if you have an idea for your fundraising event, please get in touch with their Fundraising Team at fundraising@pendleside.org.uk.

CL 4

To share your news and views on Colne Life email-editor@looppublishing.co.uk

We’re on the

MOVE!

Be Prepared

ColneLife HQ is moving from our current offices to 2B Standroyd Mill, Cottontree Lane, Colne BB8 7BW

ColneLife

Market Transformation

Owen in South Korea

Colner Owen Bradley survives the 25th World Scout Jamboree (and says it was, ‘alreet really’)

T

he transformation of Colne Market is set to start in January, which means it will stay open until Christmas.

In the meantime, the former Poundland, which is in Hartley Square, is being adapted to create a temporary market hall, Shaw’s Greengrocers – VEG-IT and Michael’s Butchers & Farm Shop will move to Richmond’s Court opposite the Market and Granny’s Kitchen can now be found in The Fun House on Dockray Street.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “This means that traders can get ready for Christmas - one of their busiest times of year!”

If any charities would like to have a stall at the Market in the run-up to the festive period to raise funds, then please get in touch. Contact Steven Reed, Markets Manager, by emailing steven.reed@liberata.com

T

he 25th World Scout Jamboree earlier this year made headlines across the globe. The Jamboree took place from the 1st to the 12th of August in South Korea and promised to repeat the fun which Scouts have experienced in the last 100 years of Jamborees.

Despite the Scout motto ‘be prepared’ it seems like the organisers were anything but. There were tales of flooded-out campsites, nauseous campers seeking non-existent shade, and that was all before a typhoon hit.

Rather than camping, cookouts and badge swapping, many scouts reported the Jamboree a disaster and a waste of the money they’d spent years raising to attend. However, when I talked to Jamboree survivor Owen Bradley from Colne, he said, despite the scorching heat, awful sanitation and the threat of a typhoon, it was alreet really!

In fact, Owen declares he would,“go again anytime” and that he went home with many great memories. He first joined the Scouts when he was ten years old and has gone on to lead a Scout group of his own in Colne.

The disastrous events of the Jamboree have not put him off; rather, he urges current and future Scouts to “go for every activity they can.”

Despite the Jamboree being labelled as a disaster, perhaps it was, in its own way, a success. It led to scouts like Owen needing to adapt, and embrace adventure and gave them time to connect with other scouts from across the globe! The next World Scout Jamboree has been announced for Poland in 2027, I wonder if we will see Owen there?

CL 5

›

VIEWS&GOODNEWS

LET’S GO ROUND AGAIN

A

cherished Victorian gem is undergoing a remarkable revival in the quaint village of Salterforth, nestled on the Lancashire-Yorkshire border.

Sally Beach’s Gallopers, a beloved merry-go-round, journeyed from the Beamish Museum in County Durham to its new caretakers, the Lee family. Their mission is to breathe new life into this historical fairground attraction.

The proud new owner, Karen Lee, shares the carousel’s rich history: “It was originally crafted in 1893 for William Beach and remained in the Beach family for an impressive 116 years.” As only the third custodians of this iconic ride, Karen and her husband Frank are deeply committed to restoring it to its former glory.

Karen exclaims, “Now it’s become a part of our family. We have a genuine passion for what we do, and taking care of a ride like this is a lifelong commitment.”

When the carousel was acquired from the Beamish Museum, it was mechanically functional but in dire need of aesthetic repairs. The

Karen and Frank

Lees have been diligently working on its exterior, meticulously restoring wooden panels and ensuring its safety. Karen is resolute in her determination to see it operational once more: “We are showmen through five generations; it’s in our blood.

These rides mustn’t get lost.

There are few merry-go-rounds like this one left in existence.”

What makes this carousel exceptionally rare is its ability to operate on both a generator and steam power. The Lees have set their sights on having everything in working order by the end of October.

Karen candidly admits, “At this stage, we haven’t seen it spinning yet,” followed by a hearty laugh.

It’s an ambitious undertaking, but the Lees are unwavering in their commitment. As Karen emphasises, “It was originally designed to bring joy to people as it travelled, and we’re determined to get it back on the road.”

If all goes well, Sally Beach’s Gallopers will arrive at Dunham Massey, Altrincham, on the 17th of November for their Christmas celebrations. Head to the National Trust property to see the lovingly restored Victorian Carousel.

ART OF COLNE

Local artist John Corcoran can currently be found in Colne Market surrounded by artwork of Wycoller, Pendle Hill and much more!

After featuring in the autumn edition of ColneLife, John very kindly paid a visit to our HQ where he kindly gifted us a stunning painting. The team at ColneLife thank John for this beautiful edition to our office! ›

CL 7

VIEWS&GOODNEWS

Colne Crafters

D

espite its humble appearance on the outside, Colne’s Christ Church is a thriving hub of activity every Monday night, where it is host to a group of lovely ladies collectively known as the ‘Crafty Briggers’. Now in its 15th year, the group is stronger than ever – with ages ranging from 8 all the way up to 98.

Annie Constable first started the group with her daughter, Catherine, in 2008 after they both learnt how to crochet from a family friend. The sheer love they had for crocheting, and the enjoyment they got out of doing it together inspired Annie to strive to bring the world of crocheting to a larger audience.

Over the years, the group have knitted all sorts – ‘twiddle muffs’ for Alzheimer’s patients,

crocheted bags and nests for koalas and kangaroos orphaned in the 2019-20 Australian bushfires, pillows, wall hangings, teddies, and even their very own ‘Knitivity’!

Yet whilst people have the opportunity to crochet, sew, knit, or weave, the group has evolved into a lovely, tight-knit friendship group. Offering a place for crafters to share a cake and have a natter with likeminded people is just as important to Annie as the crafting that gives the group its name.

The Christ Church crafters currently meet ever Monday night from 6.30-9pm in the church nartex. No registration is required, though the group do ask for a small £2 donation to go towards the church itself.

CHITTY WENT WITH A BANG!

Local thespian and member of Pendle Hippodrome’s Theatre company shares more tales from his last venture performing in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

O

n Monday the 18th of September we got a spot on the Granada Reports.

Paul Crone and his cameraman spent a few hours filming the rehearsals. Paul and his friend were a right laugh, he took some stick during his visit. All done in good humour of course.

So, our final rehearsal, and it all went well. No missed cues, etc., it was amazing! Confidence was high for the first night.

I must admit to first-night nerves, but we all got through it.

Just a couple of glitches. Don’t think the crowd noticed them, thankfully. The relief afterwards is amazing, I had forgotten what it’s like. It takes hours to come down after the show, well, it does for me!

The piece that Granada TV did on the show really helped ticket sales. By Saturday we had a double sell-out. The crowds were fabulous all week it made all the effort worthwhile.

By the time you get to read this the show will be over and rehearsals will have started for the next show, Mack and Mabel.

But I thought it would be nice to finish my current thespian adventure so this will be the last tale. I’m probably going to have six months off and chill awhile, the old body is struggling at times. I highly recommend having a go at this, because you meet some brilliant folk and get to work hard and have a great laugh.

A special thanks to all the cast for putting up with me again, and

not pushing me off the stage. It’s been an absolute pleasure these last few months. Makes me want to do the next one now. OMG I think I’ve caught the bug...

Oh, go on then, I will find out if there’s anything for me in Mack and Mabel. Can just see me in a Keystone cops’ outfit. Time for a few days rest now, old bod is creaking more than usual.

By Ian Pilkington

To share your news and views in Colne Life email-editor@looppublishing.co.uk CL 9

TRAWDEN TRIUMPHS After being presented the British Empire Medal on the 20th of October by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire in a majestic hall of Lancaster Castle, Steve Wilcock recollects the last ten years of progress in Trawden that earned him it and revived his beloved community.

“We had this idea - can we open a shop ourselves?”

Steve Wilcock

I

BY ISOBEL GOSTLING

n September 2014, residents of Trawden heard of their community centre’s planned closure.

Pendle Council’s announcement was met with sadness by the village and sparked a community effort that continues to this day, headed by local man Steve Wilcock.

Remembering the determination to save the community centre, Steve recalls, “We called a public meeting on fairly short notice. A hundred people turned up!” The overwhelming enthusiasm for the project convinced the council to hand over ownership, but the road ahead wasn’t an easy one.

Trawden’s Community Centre was in desperate need of some TLC. A new roof was the primary concern, alongside the need for rewiring and new heating, among other things. “When we accepted the keys, we took a deep breath and thought: what on earth have we done!”

The task was daunting, but after fundraisers, creating a charitable fund and grants from various

organisations, Steve says, “we went from strength to strength.”

Around two years later, the library opposite faced a similar threat of closure, and Steve, along with his team of dedicated Trawden residents, scooped up the building. “Coincidentally, a few months before this, the last shop in the village had closed. We had this idea – can we open a shop ourselves?”

In the face of numerous closures, Trawden fought for itself and proposed a business plan to Lancashire County Council, who let the residents take on the building just as they had the community centre.

But just like the community centre, it was a challenging undertaking. The building was in even worse disrepair, but eventually, it became the home of both Trawden’s library and the shop to replace what the town was lacking. “We opened Trawden Forest Community Centre and Shop and the library 80 days after we had received the keys from the county council,” Steve says proudly. “A load of

CL 10

Steve with wife Jane

Receiving his BEM

“One woman moved her family to Trawden from Somerset after hearing about the community work there!” volunteers came forward and worked in teams.”

This outstanding achievement led to an infectious community spirit which spread far and wide, garnering interest from the press and admiration from the public. One woman moved her family to Trawden from Somerset after hearing about the community work there! “That lady’s now one of our volunteers,” Steve confirms.

However, the work in Trawden wasn’t done, as in 2021, the Trawden Arms pub went up for sale.

Hospitality had taken a hit during the pandemic, but Steve knew that the pub was an essential piece of the village. “It would have been the second pub to close because about eight years earlier, The Sun Inn had closed, which had been a focal point of the village from a social point of view.” Desperate to preserve the hub of the village, Trawden registered the pub as an asset of community value through the Parish council and eventually bought it as a community venture. At that point, Trawden became the only village in the UK to have its community centre, shop, library, and pub in community ownership.

Steve tells me how necessary these facilities are for the social lives of the village residents: “With more and more places closing down, the less we see people.” With that in mind, he and his wife Jane launched a fortnightly Friendship Group to build bridges and strengthen community connections between people in Trawden, supporting those feeling isolated. “So many people have made new friends. To me, that’s one of the best things we’ve done in the village.” The group includes food and drink and is consistently enlivened by some form of entertainment or a speaker. A book club has also recently been formed, and various other activities occur throughout the week. Every voice is valued, too, with Steve’s motto: “If someone has an idea – let’s try it!”

After all this success, it is no surprise that Steve was awarded a British Empire Medal for Services to the Community. “We were on holiday,” Steve says, telling me the call was completely unexpected. “My phone rang –a mobile number I didn’t recognise, and I nearly didn’t answer it!” Both Steve and his wife were naturally shocked and emotional at the news. “To this day, I don’t know how it’s come about – I think a few people got together and put a nomination in. Trawden’s always had a positive community spirit. I’ve just been dumbfounded by how far it’s gone.”

The shop, for example, is entirely run by volunteers. Because of Trawden’s love for its community, they’ve made the impossible happen – a complete revival of the services that had previously been in danger of forever shutting their doors have been flung wide open once again, and Steve’s got a shiny medal to prove it! CL

CL 11

Celebration time

FIRST CLASS DELIVERY

BY LAURA STOREY

ColneLife’s RESIDENT HISTORIAN GEOFF CRAMBIE RECALLS TALES OF LIFE AS A POSTMAN DURING THE HEYDAY OF THE ROYAL MAIL

Geoff emptying the rare Edward VIII post box

CL 13

›

B

ack in the day, Royal Mail reigned missives, requiring a signature, made their journey supreme, and postage was measured from Buckingham Palace to Colners’ homes in a in pennies. Yet, it was a time of change distinguished envelope. “You knew what it was,” and challenges, from a controversial Geoff explains. “When I delivered one to a lady who rebranding attempt to the evolution of had reached 100 years old, tears streamed down her the postman’s role in the age of the internet. face. It seemed incredible that this letter had come If you lived in Colne in the eighties and from the Queen to her home.” nineties, your post may have been delivered by our A postman’s day used to commence before dawn, resident historian, Geoff Crambie. “Back then,” at 5am, with each of the 33 Colne posties sorting he reminisces, “It was nearly all letters. Now, it’s mail into their designated rounds. “Once you’d completely reversed. It’s such a demanding job sorted, it was 6am, and you’d arrange your walk into nowadays because it’s all about parcels. It’s a the avenues in the order you’d deliver,” Geoff recalls. complete turnaround in our lifetime.”

By 7am, every postie had organised their mail and Royal Mail has been an enduring presence in was ready to embark on their route. “It became a people’s lives since its creation in 1635, though the way of life,” he explains. “It took new postmen about cost of postage a month to get used has steadily risen. to it all.”

“When I started “You’d make nearly 45 years ago, your first delivery, a first-class stamp and by 9.30 am, was 12p, and second you’d be finished,” class was 10p. You Geoff continues. could send a letter Afterwards, the for just 10p!” Geoff routine repeated, exclaims. Despite and additional the expense, Royal mail arrived from Mail remained a Preston for a second constant throughout delivery. “I never generations, with really finished after the expectation that 12.30pm. Things rain or snow, a postie changed when would faithfully the internet made deliver letters and online ordering ‘The Only Consignia Sign In The World’ parcels to your commonplace. doorstep each morning. However, there was a time Posties couldn’t carry all the parcels in their bags, so when it appeared that Royal Mail might cease to the nature of the business changed,” Geoff explains. exist as we knew it.

“Now, they start at 7.30am, and machines already “They tried to change it to Consignia,” Geoff sort the mail. They don’t head out on their rounds recalls with disdain. 2001 Royal Mail’s decision to until 9.30am, and they’re out much later!” rebrand as Consignia at a significant cost sparked Today’s post person resembles Santa Claus in widespread outcry, echoing Geoff’s sentiments. “It their lightning-fast parcel deliveries, occasionally had been a part of people’s lives for centuries!” Geoff leaving packages in spots that make you wonder if exclaims. And they tried to change it. Even Prince they’ve tried to drop them down the chimney. Yet, Charles said, ‘Mama is not amused.’” in Geoff’s time, the job allowed for conversations The backlash forced a swift return to the Royal Mail branding and a campaign to erase all traces of the ill-fated Consignia rebranding. However, they failed to account for our meticulous collector, Geoff, who proudly declares, “I think I’ve got the only sign in the world. I’m certain because they destroyed all the others. We even had to burn thousands of letterheads with the Consignia branding on.”

Aside from the rebranding fiasco, Geoff loved his job as a postie, especially when life milestones brought him to your doorstep with a very special letter. “There’s only two occasions when you get a letter from the King or Queen,” Geoff explains. “If Tommy you reach your 100th birthday or on your diamond Trinder wedding anniversary. In my nearly 30-year career, I delivered only two 100th birthday letters and eight diamond wedding anniversary letters.” These royal

“Things changed when the internet made online ordering commonplace. Posties couldn’t carry all the parcels in their bags.”

CL 14

Geoff (second from right, bottom row) with Jack Priestley (centre) celebrating 50 years of service on his retirement day

“I was doing my rounds, and right at the top of one of the old mill chimneys was Fred Dibnah. He shouted to me – ‘Postie, where’s my giro?’” and connections. “One of the best things was that you got to meet people,” Geoff reflects. “I even encountered some famous individuals during my rounds.”

“I had breakfast with a renowned comedian,” Geoff beams. “Can you guess who it was? During the war, he starred in numerous films to lift people’s spirits. He was a cockney, and his catchphrase was ‘You lucky people!’”

Have you figured it out yet? Geoff had breakfast with none other than Tommy Trinder!

“He was on at the Municipal Hall in Colne, now The Muni and he was staying at a friend of mine’s guest house.” Geoff’s friend was Alan Clark, whose guest house on 53 Albert Road was frequented by well-known entertainers of the day. “As luck would have it, it was on my delivery route, and I had a special delivery for him. When I called at the guest house, Alan told me Tommy was busy having breakfast.” Lucky for Geoff, his friend Alan invited him to breakfast too. While Geoff had toast and jam, Tommy dug into a plate of kippers and bemoaned

the lack of jellied eels up north. His special delivery was a £1,800 cheque for the London Palladium, where he’d appeared three months earlier. “Big money in those days!”

It turned out Albert Road was a draw for celebrities, as Geoff also met Fred Dibnah, the steeplejack and beloved television eccentric, or at least, he spotted him from afar. “I was doing my rounds, and right at the top of one of the old mill chimneys was Fred Dibnah. I wanted his autograph; he has a beautiful calligraphy autograph, but I didn’t get it to my dismay. He couldn’t come down!”

“He shouted to me – “Postie, where’s my giro?” from the top of the chimney. I was watching him walking round right at the top.”

Fortunately, Geoff’s route also took him past the Pendle Leisure Centre in Colne for its grand opening in 1984, where Sir Bobby Charlton, a football legend who had played a crucial role in England’s World Cup victory, cut the ribbon. “He was one of my heroes,” Geoff reveals. In 1966, Geoff had purchased the World Cup final program for ›

CL 15

“The record for Christmas tips is held by Arthur Hargraves, who covered Foulridge. He got a whopping £172 back in the 80s.”

Geoffs grandson Nathan Lee Age 6 Posting his letter to Father Christmas

between my legs and the dog. One day, it latched onto my bag and refused to let go. I pulled my bag up, and all its front teeth flew out – teeth scattered all over the path! I legged it!” Geoff said guiltily.

“Next time I went, it didn’t come out; I never saw the dog again!”

Apart from the canine encounters, Christmas for a postie entailed lugging around weighty sacks and enduring extended work hours. “There used to be piles and piles of Christmas cards,” Geoff recalls. While Geoff would usually clock out by lunchtime, Christmas meant working until long past nightfall. But the tips did make up for it. “The record for Christmas tips is held by Arthur Hargraves, who covered Foulridge,” Geoff explains, “He got a whopping £172 back in the 80s.” The dedicated postman never brought an item back to the post office; he’d deliver the remaining load when he went for a walk with his dog in the evening.

With Christmas approaching and today’s postie hauling hundreds of parcels rather than letters, the job has undoubtedly evolved. Still, the person in the red uniform padding up your driveway is no doubt delivering the same magic posties have for generations. Don’t forget to give a Christmas tip! CL

Geoff with his Colne Post Office Sign and cap

1966 World Cup programme signed by Sir Bobby Charlton

just half a crown and asked Bobby if he would sign it. “He said he’d never seen one of them before, and he wanted it!” Geoff laughs, proudly displaying the autograph.

Of course, like any job, being a postie had its downsides, and for Geoff, Britain’s cherished pets often proved to be a recurring challenge. “Dogs!”

Geoff groans. “The small ones were the worst.”

One particular route filled him with dread due to a small terrier that harboured a ferocious dislike for him. “Every time I approached the house, they’d release the terrier. I always had to position my bag CL 17

It’s that time again; time to get out and about in bonnie Colne to discover the latest word on the street in the lead up to Christmas...

Share your views on Colne email- editor@looppublishing.co.uk

Meet...

EMMA LOGAN AND SIAN BOOTH at CARERS LINK LANCASHIRE When did you open?

“We opened on the Monday 6th of November, and we are thrilled to bring a brand-new charity shop and Information Hub in Colne on Market Street. It is a place of support and signposting, and it helps raise vital funds for Carers Link Lancashire to continue to support unpaid carers in your area. The shop will be open Monday-Friday 9.30 am – 4 pm. We can’t wait to welcome the people of Colne through our doors!”

What do you offer?

“The shop is selling a fantastic range of good quality second-hand items. It also has an exciting second floor – which includes a wedding shop with pre-loved dresses, suits, veils and shoes and a dance wear section with costumes, dance shoes and everything in between!”

What do you think of Colne?

“We support around 5,000 people in Pendle, many of whom are in Colne, so we wanted a base here. It’s a bustling town with a great community. People have been so supportive.”

Christmas plans...

“We will put up lots of decorations, and if you’d like to pop down to our shop in Accrington, we’ll have a Santa’s grotto. We do it on Thursday 23rd November during the Christmas light switch on. We had 150 children attend last year. We hope to do something similar in Colne, too. We will also have a Carer’s Christmas party at Colne Town Hall.”

CL 18

WORD ON THE STREET

Meet...

Michaela Wilson Meet...

ALISON WHALLEY at WAGS AND WHISKERS When did you open?

“We moved from Barrowford and opened at the beginning of August this year.”

What do you offer?

“We’ve got a lot of food you can’t get elsewhere, such as Canagan and CSJ and actively promote natural treats too. Upstairs we have a small pet hotel where we look after rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises… all sorts of pets, apart from dogs and cats. We also offer cat sitting in people’s own homes.

at PENDLE KITCHEN

When did you open?

“We moved in June from the market, but I still have the Pendle In and Out of School Clothing Stall, which provides clothing to struggling families.

Although it’s been difficult being further away from the stall, we have a couple of great volunteers who help with everything and ensure the kids are kitted out.”

What do you offer?

“There’s a wide selection from loaded fries, all-day full English breakfasts and roast dinners. We do a pensioner’s portion of the roast dinner for a fiver.”

What do you think of Colne?

“I really like Colne; it has a community feel, drawing me to the high street. People seem to care.

We had someone fall over outside the shop, and by the time I’d realised what was happening, three other people had rushed over to help.”

What do you think of Colne?

“The Colne community is great and helped make the clothing stall successful. We had a lady move in from out of town with three kids. She struggled to kit them all in school uniforms, and we didn’t have what she needed, so we put a post on Facebook and got all three sorted. It’s that kind of community.”

Christmas plans...

“We’ve got plenty of Christmas items in, and on the 2nd and 9th of December, we’ll be running family-friendly events where you can make your reindeer food. Keep your eyes peeled for updates!”

Christmas plans...

“Every year, we do a Christmas dinner for people on their own for Christmas day. They pick it up on Christmas Eve, and we provide three courses for them to heat up on the big day.”

CL 19

WORD ON THE STREET

e It’s a nic ed ion old-fash own market t eat with a gr eeling ty f ommuni

Meet...

JOHN AND SU

at OLD ROCK HOME & GIFT ACCESSORIES, TRAWDEN

c

When did you open?

We opened in April this year, and it’s been going well. We live in Trawden village. It’s a wonderful supportive community and we’ve met so many lovely people we’ve never before.”

Meet...

CAROL BARKER

at CAROL’S DELICATESSEN

What do you offer?

“We sell homeware, gifts, clothing, glassware, and stunning Turkish handmade ceramics, cushions, lamps, and a large selection of cards for all occasions... all sorts of gorgeous things! We currently have a lot of Christmas gift ideas and décor in store. We especially love sourcing one-off and quirky items for the shop. There is a wonderful café and cake shop right next door, so people often combine their visit with coffee and cake.”

When did you open?

“I’ve been in the market for three years, but due to the renovation, I moved. I’ve been here now for four months. It was a gamble, but it has paid off.”

What do you offer?

“We do a lot of local specialities, including stew and tripe, that other delis don’t serve. Our bestseller is the stew and hard oat cake; they used to do it with onions in the pubs years ago. The stew is sourced locally from a butcher in Nelson.

Most of what we serve is local.”

What do you think of Colne?

“I’m originally from Colne, and my wife is half Turkish, half Scottish. We have both lived in the area for many years, having married 25 years ago … she’s a Colner now!”

Christmas plans...

“We have lots of gift ideas in store, and can even wrap them for you. We will also be opening late until 8 pm on Thursdays so that people who can’t come during the day can get their Christmas presents in the evening.”

What do you think of Colne?

“I was born and bred in Colne; it’s a nice oldfashioned market town with a great community feeling.”

Christmas plans...

“I will be putting up decorations, but with it being my first Christmas, I will need to find out what kind of thing people would like.”

To share your views on Colne email- editor@looppublishing.co.uk CL 21

Meet Dr Tom Friar

ColneLife’s editor, Karen Shaw nips in for a brew and a chat with Dr Tom Friar at Skipton Road Dental Practice to discover what’s been happening behind the scenes, and for a change, it won’t be her squirming in the dentist’s chair, it’ll be Tom!

V

Editor Karen with Dr Tom

isiting the dentist became the equivalent of walking into the bowels of hell after they stopped dishing out lollipops to me at the age of 13. That’s when the rot started to set in (literally!).

I’m on the spectrum, the Dental Phobia spectrum, that is. In other words, I’m terrified of the dentist, or, should I say, I was terrified before I entered Skipton Road Dental Practice 20 years ago. my previous attitude to losing a filling was:

A. Hoping it mends itself.

B. Thinking, ‘it’ll be alright.’

C. I’ll wait until it gets really bad, But I never attempted my own dentistry like one of the surgery’s clients, who tried to stick theirs back in with Super glue, which Tom hastens to add, “It’s not something I’d ever recommend!”

From sticking crowns in, to someone fabricating their false teeth from items discovered in the garage, DIY dentistry isn’t a route Tom advocates.

I’ve never been a fan of the dentist, but today is different; as I sit in the waiting room, I have a wide beam on my face because this time, I won’t be the one squirming; it will be my dentist, Dr Tom Friar in the hot seat for once!

After a chance meeting with the previous owner, Richard Rae, at a dentistry job fair, Tom began his toothy trip as a trainee dentist at Skipton Road Dental Practice in 2005. Since then, the rookie

CL 22

environment where the patient feels protected and safe,” says Tom. I still shudder at the thought of sitting in an adjustable leatherette chair. Still, Tom’s expertise and manner are second to none, and those qualities are reflected in his team, all of them playing a vital role in ensuring that when you leave, you leave with a smile on your face, and despite leaving without a lollipop, I still get a sticker!

Find Dr Tom on facebook at Skipton Road Dental Practice or dentist-colne.co.uk

KEEP B R

“It’s nice to do something that benefits people and gives you a place within the community,” turn, makes CT scanning for implant work more accessible. For those with dentures, you’ll be able to have your dentures provided onsite in their new dental laboratory.

From clinical to cosmetic, the dentistry landscape has changed significantly over the years. “It’s nice to offer our clients the services they want,” grins Tom. “You’ve got to move with the times and always keep changing to reflect the needs of your community.”

A local lad, it’s evident that Tom has no intention of moving with his roots firmly planted in home soil, “I love the people in Colne; they’re very friendly, understanding, honest, and often blunt, but I’d prefer patients to be open and tell me how they feel.

“It’s good to get to a point where I can shape and move it in the direction I want. I’ve got such good people working for me. I’m fortunate. I don’t feel like I run it all myself,” says Tom. “There’s a lot of ‘manpower’ needed in dentistry; it’s an intensive but very rewarding job. Alongside his latest plans, he will also continue to successfully run their triage service and urgent care centre, offering locals a ‘one-stop smile’ shop.

With up to 20 staff and counting, capability is the key factor when recruiting potential employees.

However, the other essential qualities Tom looks for in his employees are those with a genuine, caring and empathetic nature alongside a real interest in helping people. “We pride ourselves in creating an

For pristine pearly-whites and great gum health follow

DR TOM’S TOOTHY TIPS by scanning here

CL 23

HING US

dentist has been busy and has ‘scaled’ (see what I did there?) his way up the dentistry ladder, from being a partner in 2016 to eventually becoming the sole owner in 2020.

“Dentistry is an interesting job; the people are always different, and I love it. It’s nice to do something that benefits people and gives you a place within the community,” smiles Tom. “As a practice, a lot is going on; it’s exciting.”

Since taking over the practice three years ago, Tom’s insight, combined with his ambition, has led him to significant expansion; working tirelessly on providing his patients with a modern interior refurbishment, he now has plans afoot to expand into the former hair salon next door. The extra room will provide more surgery space, which, in

neologisms 2023 /nɪˈɒlədʒɪz(ə)m/ noun. plural noun: neologisms a newly coined word or expression

BY ISOBEL GOSTLING Every year, new words enter the dictionary, and 2023 is no exception, with a tidal wave of words being added to help define new and evolving concepts. From words shaped by the news of today to strange, little words relating to cake, aliens, and words themselves, here’s a selection that made it into the dictionary this year.

The internet:

The place where we all create new things every day, the internet of course, has provided us with loads of new words in 2023.

Deepfake – a word that has grown drastically in popularity recently due to the fast growth of artificial intelligence. A deepfake is a video of a person created by AI, where their face and/ or body have been digitally manipulated so that they look like someone else.

These fake videos are hard to distinguish from real videos, so the technique is most commonly used to spread false information online.

However, the technique was originally created to be used in art and cinema.

Smishing – ever received a scam text message?

Now, there’s a word for it. Smishing is the practice of sending texts that pretend to be from reputable companies, with the intention of tricking the receiver into giving out their confidential information, such as credit card details.

Sexuality, identity and relationships:

Our understanding of sexuality and relationships is always expanding, and here are some new terms to help clarify things for you.

Abrosexual – the newest addition to the dictionary regarding sexual identity. It refers to a person whose sexual orientation is fluid or varies over time, with the prefix ‘abro’ coming from the Greek, meaning graceful and delicate, perhaps in reference to the fluctuation of their sexuality.

Finsta – short for Finstagram, it is a mash-up of the term ‘fake Instagram’. It is used to refer to an Instagram account that is kept secret, usually so that a person can limit their interactions to only a close group of friends, making their Instagram posting more private.

Folx – a variation of the word ‘folks’, folx has been used since the 90s as a gender-neutral term, but only very recently has it made its way into the dictionary.

The X as a suffix can be seen in many LGBTQ+ words, such as the honorific Mx. rather than Mr. or Miss, and signifies gender inclusivity. (If you’re wondering how to pronounce it, the x in folx stands in for the ‘ks’ sound).

Doomscroll is a word you may be familiar with from the days of lockdown. Despite being popularised in 2020, it is only this year that doomscroll entered the dictionary. The verb means constantly scrolling through social media and news sites, compulsively reading sad or anxiety-inducing content.

Nearlywed – copying the well-known term ‘newlywed’, nearlywed means exactly what it sounds like it means: a person in a relationship who is not yet married. It can be used to refer to an engaged couple, or simply a couple who don’t plan to marry but live together in a committed relationship.

CL 24

Quiet quit – a term that means doing the bare minimum amount of work for your job, never exceeding expectations or volunteering for extra work.

Climate crisis:

A topic that looms large on the news, climate change has made its mark on our words.

Climate fiction – a new genre, dubbed cli-fi, that explores themes of climate change: fluctuating temperatures, rising sea levels, and the need to prevent these things can be found in these books.

Forever chemicals – chemicals that maybe don’t last forever, but certainly a long time. This term is used for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS for short, which has also just been added to the dictionary). These chemicals are everywhere: in fridges, nonstick pans, and flameretardant furniture. They degrade very slowly, lasting for hundreds of years in our environment.

Fun extras: Tifo – coordinating banners, flags, or signs at a sports event to spell out a group show of support.

The word originates from Italian, meaning ‘typhus’, a fever, because of the passionate (or feverish!) way people cheer their team on.

Lifestyle:

On a lighter note, here are some words you might have heard at home or around the office.

Antigram – like an anagram, except opposite.

Antigrams are pairs of words or phrases that are anagrams of one another but which hold opposing meanings. ‘Listen’ and ‘silent’ are antigrams because they share the same six letters but mean contradictory things. Longer examples include ‘true lady’ and ‘adultery’, and ‘real fun’ and ‘funeral’.

£

£

Cromulent – an old-fashioned sounding word that is new to the dictionary in 2023. Cromulent is a neutral word, meaning acceptable, adequate, or satisfactory. So if those three words aren’t satisfactory enough, you might want to mix it up and use cromulent.

£

£

Cakeage – modelled on corkage, a word that means a fee charged by a restaurant for bringing wine brought from outside; cakeage is its fun cousin: a fee for bringing cake the restaurant has not supplied itself. Ever had to pay for the waiters to serve your supermarket-bought birthday cake? Yep, that’s the cakeage fee.

Cape – a verb that is being used to mean acting as a defender/supporter of someone/something.

Presumably, this comes from the idea of a superhero.

Aestel – more technical than the previous few words, an aestel is a kind of pointer used to keep a person’s place when reading a manuscript.

And finally, a change to an old classic: UAP – this abbreviation stands for an unidentified aerial phenomenon; if you didn’t know, it’s the updated term for UFOs. UAPs are, as you might have guessed, mysterious flying objects assumed to be spaceships. UAP doesn’t have quite the same ring to it, does it?

Words, words, words!

The new words of 2023 help us to understand one another and the world around us better. Here’s hoping that 2024 has more wonderful words around the corner.

CL 25

CL

C O M P E T I T I O N S A D D E D D A I LY - V I S I T C O L N E L I F E M A G A Z I N E . C O . U K / C O M P E T I T I O N S

Competition time

To enter visit colnelifemagazine.co.uk/competitions or scan the code at the bottom of the page. Deadline for entries 13.12.23 unless otherwise stated.

WIN A FALCONRY EXPERIENCE AT THE DEVONSHIRE ARMS

WIN

for two guests worth £138.

The Devonshire Arms at Bolton Abbey has teamed up with their in-house falconer to offer this wonderful prize. Each session allows time for taking lots of photos and videos to capture and share lasting memories. devonshirehotels.co.uk/ falconry-experiences Q: Where is the hotel located?

WIN

WIN A GLENCROFT PAVEMENT JUMPER This light-weight jumper is named after limestone pavement rock formations in the Yorkshire Dales and is made in the UK with 100% British wool. glencroft.co.uk Q: Which National Park is Glencroft based in?

WIN A COOKWARE BUNDLE!

WIN

WIN £100-WORTH OF BOUQUETS FROM EFLORIST.CO.UK Our Luxury Collection has been expertly developed by our award-winning in-house florist team. These bouquets are bigger and bolder, making them the largest bouquets we offer.

Q: What collection boasts the largest bouquets?

To celebrate the launch of its brand new Made in India range, Judge is giving one lucky reader a chance to win a bundle of goodies that includes a 3-piece cookware set. judgemadeinindia.co.uk Q: Where is each product crafted?

TO ENTER AND FOR MORE COMPETITONS

SCAN HERE CL 27

›

CHRISTMAS CRAFT

BRANCH OUT THIS

CHRISTMAS

ColneLife

S CHRISTMA CRAFT SPECIAL

These branch trees are great if you don’t have a lot of space, or prefer not to have a Christmas tree. They are excellent for the environment, because they are foraged and can be kept for many years, or put back for bees and bugs to live in.

Decoration ideas • Wind fairy lights around each branch • Tie baubles or homemade decorations along each branch • Hang lots of paper snowflakes in different sizes from each level • Peg advent pouches to the string • Peg up your Christmas cards • Make a huge string of tassels to fit along each branch • Wrap foliage around each level to make it come alive.

You will need MATERIALS • A selection of branches around • 1.5–3.5cm (5/8–13/8in) in diameter • Ball of cotton string TOOLS • Scissors • Handsaw or electric mitre saw • Tape measure • Ruler • Pencil • Sandpaper • Stiff brush

STEP 1

Using a handsaw or electric mitre saw, cut nine branches to the following lengths: 75cm(29½in), 65cm (25½in), 55cm (21¾in), 45cm (17¾in), 35cm (13¾in), 25cm (9¾in), 15cm (6in), 10cm (4in) and 5cm (2in). Remove any dirt and sand the cut ends so they aren’t too rough. Lay the branches out on the floor in size order, with the largest at the bottom. Allow roughly 15cm (6in) between each branch. If you plan to peg decorations to the tree, you can tie some string to one end of the individual branches and wind it around a few times before securing at the other end. This step is easier to do now than it is after you’ve attached the branches to each other.

STEP 2

STEP 3

Cut pieces of string to lengths of 1.3m (1½yd).

Take one length of string underneath one end of the bottom branch so that you have equal lengths either side.

Tie a double knot 2–3cm (¾–1¼in) in from the edge, making sure the knot is on the top aspect of the branch; then wrap either end once around the branch in either direction and tie another double knot on top of the last.

Repeat on the other end of the same branch.

CL 29

Repeat step 2 on both ends of every branch except the top one. Starting with the bottom branch, take both strings from one side up and tie a double knot through the middle of the two strings on the branch above. Have a ruler handy and measure 15cm (6in) between the branches as you go. Once you are satisfied with the spacing, wrap either end of the string once around the branch and tie another double knot on top of the last.

Repeat on the other end of the branch and then continue in the same way all the way to the top branch.

Once the tree is assembled, cut a 25cm (9¾in) piece of string for the hanger and attach it securely to the middle of the top branch. Now decorate your tree as you please.

Light it up!

Using a similar technique, you can cut two long pieces from a straight branch and attach smaller lengths as ladder rungs. Use a crisscross pattern with the string to secure the ladder rungs onto the vertical pieces. This will make it more stable. Please note this is for decoration only and must not be used to climb on!

CHRISTMAS CRAFT

CHRISTMAS

CRACKERS

Crackers are a great addition to the start of any Christmas meal. For children, it is great fun seeing what explodes from the inside. I put chocolate in mine, which goes down a treat with the recipients. For adults, the trivia and jokes are part of the enjoyment. These can be bought from most craft stores, or you could write or type up and print your own. You could also make your own paper hats to go inside the crackers.

You will need: Materials • 10mm (3 ⁄ 8 in) double-sided tape • Wrapping paper • Two cardboard toilet roll tubes per cracker • Compostable cracker snap • Two 50cm (19¾in) lengths of ribbon • Small gifts or chocolates • Paper hat • Joke or trivia Tools: Ruler • Pencil • Scissors

TIP or Don’t use metallic per plastic-coated pa rs cke cra to make the es of because these typ from paper stop them apart. pulling/snapping way! d har I learnt this the use is The best paper to n. thin and easily tor

Colour scheme - The great thing about making your own crackers is that you can customise the paper to match your Christmas colour scheme, and the contents to suit the recipient.

STEP 1

Cut a rectangle of Christmas wrap measuring 19 x 30.5cm (7½ x 12in). Cut and stick a strip of double-sided tape along one of the long edges and neatly fold it over to give it a crisp edge.

Place another piece of tape on the same long edge, but don’t peel the backing paper off yet.

Cut one of the toilet tubes in half so you are left with two smaller tubes. These will become the ‘handles’ of the cracker. Place a length of double-sided tape along each of the toilet tubes.

Mark the centre point of the paper along the unfolded edge. Also mark the centre point on the uncut toilet roll tube, close to the double-sided tape. Peel off the paper from the double-sided tape on the tubes and stick down the full tube, centre point to centre point. Then stick the two half tubes at either end, approximately 5mm (¼in) in from the edge of the paper.

STEP 2

STEP 3

folded paper edge. Now gently roll all three tubes towards it as straight and neatly as possible (as if you were rolling up a Swiss roll) until they stick down.

Twist one end in towards the centre and tie a ribbon around the folded section. Make sure the snap is still in place.

Now turn the cracker on its end and fill it with the loose gifts. Fold in the other handle and tie another ribbon on. If you want to trim the snap so it doesn’t sit outside the handles, you can. I also like to tape it to the inside of the handles so you can’t see it.

Now decorate it however you wish.

You can add a name tag if the gifts are specific, which also doubles up as a place card at the table. There are other options too, such as ribbon, foliage or anything that you might have spare in your craft box.

Slide the snap through the centre of all the tubes and then place the paper hat, trivia and jokes into the centre tube. Leave the gifts or chocolates out at this point, because they may fall out in the next step. Peel off the paper from the double-sided tape on the

The Eco-Christmas Craft Book Marianne Miall £12.99 Search Press

CL 31

Christmas around the world Christmas is a time for love, giving, and togetherness. Whether gifts, meals, or decorations, it’s a time of celebration, reflection, and goodwill towards all.

All countries celebrate it differently, acknowledging their traditions and customs; here’s a glimpse into how some countries celebrate the Yuletide season.

1 FRANCE

‘Noël’ nativity scenes, called ‘crèches’, are displayed in churches and homes. A unique tradition in the region of Provence is the ‘Santons’ handcrafted clay figurines used in nativity scenes. The French also enjoy a festive meal on Christmas Eve called ‘Le Réveillon,’ featuring dishes like foie gras, oysters, and various sweets. Children look forward to receiving gifts from Père Noël, the French Santa Claus.

2GERMANY

Famous for its Christmas markets, Germany hosts a wealth of stalls where visitors can shop for handcrafted ornaments, toys, and traditional treats like bratwurst and mulled wine. The Christmas tree, or ‘Tannenbaum,’ is a cherished tradition believed to have originated in Germany. Advent calendars are used to count down to Christmas. St. Nicholas, or ‘Nikolaus,’ brings gifts to children on December 6th, and Christkind, a child-like angel, is the traditional gift-bringer on Christmas Eve.

3 ITALY

Italy has a unique Christmas tradition called ‘La Befana.’ According to folklore, La Befana is a kind witch who delivers gifts to children on the night of January 5th, the eve of Epiphany. Italian families also enjoy a festive meal on Christmas Eve called the ‘Feast of the Seven Fishes,’ featuring a variety of seafood dishes.

Nativity scenes, or ‘Presepe,’ taken from the Latin word ‘manger’, are set up on December 8th, along with all the other Christmas decorations. Still, traditionally, the baby Jesus is not introduced into the crib until Christmas Eve. The ‘Presepe’ stays until ‘Epiphany’ on the 6th of January.

“IN GERMANY CHRISTKIND, A CHILD-LIKE ANGEL, IS THE TRADITIONAL GIFT-BRINGER ON CHRISTMAS EVE.”

4

SPAIN Spanish Christmas celebrations are marked by a unique tradition called ‘La Nochebuen, ’a celebrated on Christmas Eve. Families gather for a late-night feast, often featuring roast lamb, seafood, and traditional sweets like turron. Nativity scenes, known as ‘belénes,’ are displayed in homes and churches. The Christmas season continues through January 6th, known as ‘El Día de los Reyes’ or Three Kings’ Day, when children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men.

CL 32

8 JAPAN

Christmas is not a religious holiday in Japan but is widely celebrated as a secular event.

Christmas lights and decorations adorn cities, and families exchange gifts. A popular Christmas tradition is eating KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) on Christmas Eve, thanks to a successful marketing campaign in the 1970s that associated KFC with Christmas.

9 MEXICO 5 SWEDEN

St. Lucia’s Day celebrated on December 13th, marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Sweden. A young girl is chosen to portray St. Lucia, wearing a white robe and a crown of candles. She leads a procession of children, each holding a candle while singing traditional songs.

Families observe St. Lucia’s Day in their homes by having one of their daughters (traditionally the eldest) dress in white and serve coffee and baked goods, such as saffron bread (lussekatter) and ginger biscuits, to the other family members.

In Mexico, Christmas is a colourful and vibrant celebration. The ‘Posadas’ are a series of reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, held over nine nights before Christmas Eve. Piñatas, filled with candies and fruits, are broken during these celebrations. A late-night ‘La Nochebuena’ feast on Christmas Eve features traditional dishes like tamales and bacalao (salted cod). The holiday season culminates on January 6th with the celebration of Epiphany, known as ‘Día de los Reyes,’ when children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men.

“NORWEGIANS HAVE A TRADITION OF HIDING BROOMS ON CHRISTMAS EVE TO WARD OFF EVIL SPIRITS.”

6 NORWAY

In Norway, the holiday season is known as ‘Jul.’ Traditional Christmas dishes include lutefisk (dried fish) and ribbe (pork ribs). On Christmas Eve, people attend church services, and children look forward to the arrival of Julenissen, the Norwegian Santa Claus. Norwegians also have a tradition of hiding brooms on Christmas Eve to ward off evil spirits.

7 RUSSIA

Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th in Russia, following the Julian calendar. Elaborate church services, festive meals, and the singing of carols mark the holiday. Grandfather Frost, or ‘Ded Moroz’, is the Russian equivalent of Santa Claus. Unlike the rather rotund Western Santa of the West, Ded Moroz is slender with a wizard-like flowing beard and wears a long robe in different colours, such as blue and white. Snegurochka, his granddaughter, often accompanies him, delivering gifts to children on New Year’s Eve.

10 ETHIOPIA

Christmas is known as ‘Genna’ in Ethopia and is celebrated on January 7th, following the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. Colourful processions, church services, and traditional songs and dances mark the holiday. On Christmas Eve, people dress in a thin white cotton garment called netela and attend an overnight church service, usually starting around 6 p.m. and finishing at 3 a.m. People line up surrounding a church and begin a long, looping procession around the circumference of the church. ●

CL 33

DECK THE HALLS WITH DIY

Unique Christmas Decorations You Can Make at Home Christmas can be a costly time so to it’s time to get crafty and get creative

1

HANDMADE ORNAMENTS Get creative and make your own ornaments using paper, felt, or fabric.

You can personalise them with photos or hand-painted designs.

To make paper ornaments, cut out shapes like stars, snowflakes, or Christmas trees and decorate them with markers, glitter, or stickers. Cut out shapes and sew or glue them together for felt ornaments, adding embellishments like sequins or beads.

For fabric ornaments, cut out shapes and sew them together, stuffing them with batting or adding a ribbon for hanging.

3

GARLAND String together popcorn, cranberries, or dried citrus slices to create a beautiful and natural garland for your tree or mantle. Pop plain popcorn and thread it onto a needle and string to make popcorn garland.

Use a needle and thread to string fresh or frozen cranberries for cranberry garland. For citrus garland, slice oranges or lemons thinly and dry them in the oven before threading them onto a string.

5

ADVENT CALENDAR Make your own advent calendar with envelopes, paper bags, or even repurposed baby food jars. Fill them with small trinkets or treats like candy, stickers, or small toys. Number each envelope or jar for each day leading up to Christmas.

WREATHS Use natural materials such as pine cones, berries, and branches to create a unique and festive wreath for your front door.

Gather materials from your yard or local park, and attach them with a wire wreath frame or a foam wreath base. You can also use artificial materials such as ribbons, ornaments, or tinsel to create a more colourful or whimsical wreath.

2 4

MASON JAR LUMINARIES Use mason jars to create beautiful and cosy luminaries with tea lights or LED candles decorated with holidaythemed silhouettes or stencils. Use a stencil or freehand cut a silhouette out of black paper, tape it to the inside of the jar, and fill it with sand or rocks to stabilise the candle.

UPCYCLED DECOR Turn old sweaters into cosy Christmas stockings, or use old books to create a unique tree topper. To make a sweater stocking, cut out a stocking shape from the sweater, sew it together, and add a ribbon for hanging. To make a book tree topper, fold the pages of a book into a cone shape and decorate with glitter or ornaments.

6 ›

CL 35

7

8

FABRIC BUNTING Use scraps of fabric to create a festive bunting to hang across your mantle or window. Cut out triangles or other shapes from fabric, sew or glue them together onto a ribbon or twine, and decorate with glitter or holiday accents

GINGERBREAD HOUSE Get the whole family involved in creating a delicious and festive gingerbread house, complete with icing and candy decorations. Use a gingerbread house kit or make your own gingerbread dough from scratch, cut out and assemble the pieces, and decorate with colourful icing and sweet treats.

10 9

RECYCLED CARDBOARD Use cardboard to create unique and eco-friendly holiday décor, such as a cardboard Christmas tree or gift boxes. Cut out shapes from cardboard, like a tree or box, and decorate with paint, glitter, or wrapping paper.

CENTER PIECE Consider using a combination of candles, ornaments, and greenery to create a beautiful centerpiece. You could also make your own place cards using festive paper and glitter.

11 12 CL 37

DIY CANDLES Create your own scented candles with essential oils and natural wax, and decorate them with holiday accents such as cinnamon sticks or dried flowers.

Melt wax in a double boiler, add essential oils and dye if desired, and pour into candle moulds. Add accents like cinnamon sticks or dried flowers before the wax hardens.

WOOD SLICE DECOR Use wood slices to create rustic coasters, tree ornaments, or a unique mantlepiece display. Slice branches into thin rounds, sand the edges, and decorate with paint, markers, or wood-burning tools.

CL CL

FOOD

& DRINK SHARE

C O C K TA I L S

SHARE THE CELEBRATION

opiesfoods.com

Gather round the table with family and friends this Christmas and share the love (and the food)

›

CL 39

Pickled Walnut Celebration Bread Wreath Recipe on following page

Pickled Walnut Celebration Bread Wreath Serves 10 Preparation time 2hrs Cooking time 45 mins

METHOD Sift the flour and salt into a mixing bowl or into the bowl of a stand mixer. Measure out the lukewarm water, stir in the yeast and caster sugar, then leave the yeast to develop for 10 minutes until frothy.

Pour the yeast water into the flour and mix until a dough is formed.

Knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes or by using a stand mixer.

Cover the bowl with a clean tea-towel and leave in a warm place until doubled in size.

Knock back the dough then knead in the pickled walnuts, sun dried tomatoes, all but 1 tbsp of the parmesan and finally the chopped rosemary. Divide the dough into 18 even sized pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a ball, adding a little more flour if the dough feels too sticky.

Place a large ramekin or bowl into the centre of a baking sheet (this has to be the size of the camembert or slightly bigger). Place the balls of dough around the ramekin leaving a 5mm gap between each ball.

Make a second ring of the dough around the first, again leaving a 5mm cap to allow room for the dough to rise. Cover with the tea towel until the dough has doubled in size.

Pre-heat the oven to 190°C / 170°C fan / gas 5. Just before baking, brush the bread rolls all over with melted butter then scatter over the remaining parmesan cheese, sea salt and a little extra rosemary and bake for about 30 minutes or until golden.

When you are ready to serve, stud the camembert with garlic and warm in the oven for 10-12 minutes until melty. Place the bread wreath onto a board and carefully position the camembert in the middle, still in its wooden box, then decorate with extra rosemary sprigs and serve.

fabflour.co.uk/easy-peasy-baking/

INGREDIENTS 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for rolling/kneading 1 tsp salt 1½ tsp fast action yeast 1 tsp caster sugar 350ml lukewarm water 3 x Opies Pickled Walnuts, finely chopped 75g sun dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped 60g parmesan cheese 1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary 2 tbsp butter, melted 1 tsp sea salt 1 round camembert, to bake 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced Fresh rosemary sprigs

opiesfoods.com

from previous page

CL 40

FOOD&DRINK

Tear ‘n’ Share Stollen Swirls Serves 12 Preparation time 20 mins Cooking time 125 mins

fabflour.co.uk/easy-peasy-baking/

INGREDIENTS 85g unsalted butter 165ml milk + 2tbsp for glaze 2 eggs 500g strong bread flour 1 tbsp mixed spice + ¼ tsp for glaze 1 tsp salt 1 packet dried yeast (7g) 200g dried mixed fruit, soaked in 250ml boiling water 50g glace cherries, chopped 200g white marzipan 150g icing sugar METHOD Place the marzipan in the freezer while you prepare the dough.

In the saucepan, gently heat the unsalted butter and 165ml milk until the butter has fully melted.

Remove from the heat and set aside to cool until tepid, mix in the eggs, then add in the yeast.

In the large mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1 tbsp mixed spice and salt. Pour in the liquid mixture and bring together to form a dough. Tip out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes to form a smooth dough then return to the bowl, cover with cling film, and leave in a warm place for at least 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Knock back the dough and roll out into a large

rectangle (approx 5mm thick) on a lightly floured surface. Drain any excess water off the soaked mixed fruit, then scatter evenly, followed by the chopped cherries.

Take the marzipan out of the freezer and grate over the top of the fruit in an even fashion. Roll up the dough to form a long sausage shape, divide into 12 and arrange in a 20cm x 30cm traybake or roasting tin (3x4).

Heat the oven to 180°c (fan) and bake for 20-25 minutes until risen and golden on top. Allow to cool.

Make the glaze by combing the icing sugar with 2 tbsp milk and ¼ tsp mixed spice, drizzle over the rolls and serve.

Gingerbread Traybake Cake Makes one 20cm x 30cm traybake Preparation time 15 mins Cooking time 25 mins

INGREDIENTS 200g unsalted butter + 40g for icing 150g light brown sugar 4 tbsp black treacle 2 eggs 300g self raising flour 1 tbsp ground ginger 150ml milk 75g cream cheese 200g icing sugar Crushed gingerbread men, to decorate

METHOD Preheat the oven to 160°c (fan).

In the mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the treacle and eggs, followed by the flour, ginger and milk, mixing after each addition until a thick, smooth batter is formed.

Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 25-30 minutes until risen and springy to the touch.

Allow to cool completely.

Make the icing by combining the 40g butter, cream cheese and icing sugar until no lumps remain. Using a palette knife or the back of a spoon, spread evenly on top of the ginger sponge and sprinkle with crushed gingerbread men.

CL 41

FOOD&DRINK

A HAT TRICK OF SANTA'S TOP TIPPLES AWAIT...

amarula.com

wayfair.co.uk

An alluring cocktail filled with Christmas magic, a winter warmer in an indulgent Advocaat latte and a sweet treat with gingerbread liqueur - all perfect for getting into the festive spirit.

THE GINGERBREAD MAN

MAGICAL MERMAID COCKTAIL

The rich essence of Ethiopian coffee meets the comforting warmth of gingerbread, creating a unique and indulgent concoction that’s perfect for those seeking a truly decadent taste adventure.

This whimsical concoction captures the allure of the ocean and the beauty of mythical mermaids, offering a delightful and refreshing drink that sparkles with a touch of magic.

INGREDIENTS 75ml Amarula Ethiopian Coffee 50ml gingerbread liqueur 10ml sugar syrup, 25ml vodka METHOD Pour all ingredients in a shaker. Add 6-8 ice cubes into the shaker. Shake rigorously for 10-15 seconds. Double strain into a chilled coupe

INGREDIENTS 50ml pineapple juice Juice of 1 lime 100ml ginger beer 50ml magic gin METHOD To make your magical mermaid cocktail, fill a highball glass with ice and add the pineapple juice followed by the lime juice.

Top with ginger beer until 3/4 full, then add the magical gin and see the colour change from blue to purple. Stir briefly before serving.

MAKE YOUR OWN

MAGIC GIN SCAN HERE

WARNINKS WINTER LATTE A unique and highly delicious way to elevate your coffee during the colder months.advocaat and coffee are a wonderful combination of flavours and work in harmony to make a truly delicious drink.

INGREDIENTS 50ml Warninks (Dutch Advocaat Liqueur) 1 shot of espresso, 150ml milk A selection of toppings METHOD Pour Warninks (50ml) into a warmed latte glass. Brew the espresso. Heat the milk to approximately 60 degrees. in a milk pan and pour over the coffee mixture. Garnish as desired with a selection of toppings and serve immediately. CL CL 43

Discover

The New

Waggoners

N

estled on the picturesque hills just a mile and a half outside Burnley, The New Waggoners is a hidden gem serving home-cooked, wholesome food. With stunning views across Pendle and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere, the establishment has been a staple since its doors swung open in 2012.

Stepping into the New Waggoners, you’ll be greeted with a with cheer by the warm friendly staff.

Patrick O’Reilly, the manager, takes immense pride in ensuring every guest is greeted with a genuine smile and a wide-ranging selection of real ales and wines.

The menu is nothing short of mouthwatering, crafted for those who adore proper pub food done right. For those with dietary restrictions, the pub also boasts extensive gluten-free and vegetarian/ vegan options.

“We’re about homecooked food at decent portions,” Patrick explains. “We offer value for money with quality ingredients.” This commitment to genuine, satisfying fare is what sets The New Waggoners apart.

Moreover, this family-friendly establishment is easily accessible from the M65 and boasts ample parking. So, whether you’re a local or passing through, The New Waggoners welcomes you with open arms.

The New Waggoners is more than just a place to dine; it’s a place that lights up with festive cheer.

When it comes to Christmas, they go all out.

Starting from November 20th, the pub is decorated in true festive spirit, illuminating the moors with beautiful lights. “I like to light up the pub so you can see it from space,” Patrick laughs. “We go the whole hog for Christmas.” The inviting lights and cosy interior make it the perfect destination for festive celebrations.

“We always recommend booking,” Patrick advises.

With such a reputation for creating a festive wonderland, it’s no wonder they’re a sought-after spot during the holidays.

One of the key ingredients to The New Waggoners’ success is its friendly team. The atmosphere here is filled with camaraderie and the genuine desire to make every visit memorable.

So, whether you’re seeking a comforting meal, a festive experience, or simply a warm place to relax with friends and family, The New Waggoners promises tradition, warmth, and flavour in every bite and sip.

CL 45

“Whether you’re a local or passing through, The New Waggoners welcomes you with open arms”

Manchester Road, Burnley BB11 5NS 01282 421705 info@newwaggoners.co.uk newwaggoners.co.uk

FOOD FOR FREE

BY LAURA STOREY

FORAGING FANATIC PETE COMPSTON TAKES US ON A WILD SHOPPING TRIP ON OUR DOORSTEP AND SHOWS US THE WONDERS OF NATURE’S LARDER ›

CL 47

A

s the seasons turn towards winter, nature’s bounty has well and truly emerged. Berries create a colourful medley, trees are overburdened with fruit, and mushrooms are popping up from the forest floor.

For many of us, though, these plants may not appear as food at all – a supermarket shop is required for picking up essentials, but for Colner Pete Compston, founder of Pendle Plant Craft, which runs activities across Colne and Pendle, a walk through the woods is his weekly shop.

An experienced forager, Pete is able to spot food in the nature all around us, but he wasn’t always this way.

“About seven years ago, I had a really tough time,” Pete explains. He had an outdoor job, and luckily, spending time in nature helped him to heal. “I don’t want to seem like a total hippie,” Pete laughs.

“But I was spending a lot of time with trees, and I started to learn more about them. I discovered how interconnected nature is - it teaches us a lot about ourselves and how we are more part of nature than we act.”

This discovery encouraged Pete to reignite his connection with nature. He spent a year living almost solely off the plants he foraged, and as his understanding bloomed, so did his mental health.

“I couldn’t get help from professionals,” he explains. “When antidepressants didn’t work for him, he was left feeling hopeless. It was only when he began to forage that he realised there were steps he could take himself to get on the road to better mental health. “You can’t learn to forage without learning to be your own responsibility,” he says.

“Foraging is ancient knowledge that doesn’t rely on systems but instead on ourselves and community.

It can really help people like me who fall through the gaps, especially in mental health services. I’m acutely aware of how wonderful these services are as I’ve been in roles supporting vulnerable people, but they can’t cover everything.”

As foraging helped Pete overcome his mental health issues, he was keen to share it with others.

During the early days of the pandemic in 2020, Pete decided to post a status on Facebook asking if anyone wanted to go out foraging with him and collect some free food.

“I didn’t expect anything from it, really,” he explains. But it was the start of Pendle Plant Craft, which Pete describes as “a lovely bunch of folk adventuring in Pendle and sharing knowledge and understandings of nature.

“There’s been some truly magical moments with people learning together,” he beams. “It’s been wonderful sharing it with others and seeing other people sharing what they’ve learned.”

Anyone can go along to the group’s free foraging walks around the Pendle countryside, for more information go to the Facebook page - Pendle Plant Craft (free foraging and well-being walks).

CL 48

Foraged mushrooms

Pete sharing his foraging knowledge

Pete’s Winter Foraging Tips

W

inter unveils a hidden world of remarkable forageables, nature’s treasures waiting to be explored. In this journey of discovery, personal responsibility takes centre stage, as does the importance of thorough research. I’ll provide you with very brief insights into just a few of the many winter wonders, but for a deeper dive, look these plants up yourself and consider joining our free foraging walks with Pendle Plant Craft and becoming part of our vibrant Facebook group. It’s a thriving community of passionate people learning together. With some incredibly knowledgeable folk keen to help with queries about all these wonders on our doorsteps.

Remember, caution is your compass; never use or consume anything unless you’re absolutely confident in your identification. Always be diligent in checking for contraindications, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and start with a small sample before embracing larger quantities. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies when using wild plants, both topically and when ingesting them.

Please don’t forget to forage mindfully and learn the etiquette, especially around caring about nature as this is also a good way to stay safe.

Brambles: A familiar favourite among foragers, brambles offer more than just the berries. During winter, the leaves remain a valuable resource for crafting wild herb teas. An essential Bramble ingredient in almost all the teas I make for myself and others, Bramble leaves are known for their numerous health attributes. They also contain Eugenol, a compound excellent for treating mouth sores like ulcers and abscesses. Crafting a poultice by chewing a leaf (mind those thorns on the central vein) can provide instant and lasting relief.

Herb Robert: This exceptional winter herb thrives abundantly in the north, adapting to diverse habitats. Its contributions to well-being are manifold. Rich in vitamins and minerals, Herb Robert boasts a richness in vitamin C that fortifies our immune system. Among its many mineral treasures, Germanium shines as a powerful oxygen catalyst, enhancing our body’s ability to optimise oxygen utilisation creating an inhospitable environment for pathogens.

Its anti-inflammatory properties prove invaluable for kidney and bladder health, and there’s emerging evidence of its potential in managing high cholesterol, blood pressure and even Herb Robert combating cancer.

Although toxic to ingest, ivy is MUCH kinder to the environment and your wallet Ivy

Ivy as Washing Detergent: Consider a sustainable alternative by using ivy as a washing detergent for your clothes and bedding. Although toxic to ingest, it’s MUCH kinder to the environment and your wallet but also, importantly, your skin and respiratory system. Unlike chemical-based detergents that can have detrimental effects, ivy offers a gentle, eco-friendly cleansing solution.

CL 49

HOME & GARDEN NEUTRAL

CL 51

COSY

GA R D E N H AC K S

EUCALYPTUS AND SPRUCE GARLAND WITH PINECONES £ 35, marquisanddawe.co.uk

Have a

Naturally Neutral Christmas PAMPAS GRASS CHRISTMAS WREATH £34.99, gingerray.co.uk

This year, eco-friendly Christmas décor uses natural and fragrant foliage. Opt for neutral, calming colours like cream, beige, brown, and green, and create simple organic textures, try adding accessories inspired by nature.

GLASS BAUBLE

SELECTION BOX £18.50 coxandcox.co.uk

CHRISTMAS PARTRIDGE CREAM CANDLE SHADE £12 nicholasengert.co.uk

WOODLAND SPLENDOUR bmstores.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TRAY FOUR CALLING BIRDS £9.95 annabeljames.co.uk

ANNIE SLOAN CHRISTMAS DINING anniesloan.com

CL 52

HOME&GARDEN CHRISTMAS BRANCH & BAUBLES lights4fun.co.uk

ACCESSORISE ORGANICALLY RATTAN CHRISTMAS TREE WHITE £59.99 ivylinegb.co.uk

SIX WOODEN ACORN BAUBLES £16, marquisanddawe.co.uk

FOLD-OUT PAPER STAR DECORATIONS £15.99, lights4fun.co.uk SHEEPSKIN CREAM RUG £199.99, wayfair.co.uk

PAINT YOUR OWN NUTCRACKER DECORATION £24, ellajames.co.uk

CHRISTMAS MUSHROOM CLOCHE £3 bmstores.co.uk

EUCALYPTUS AND PINECONE WREATH £39 marquisanddawe.co.uk

WOODEN TREE £5.99, dobbies.co.uk

SET OF SIX PAPER MACHE TREE DECORATIONS £36 ellajames.co.uk

CL 53

HOME&GARDEN

Cosy

You don’t need lots of space (or money) to play with when it comes to making cosy living room ideas a reality, just the willingness to make a few changes to your space.

On Up

Opt for a warm colour palette

When it comes to cosy living room ideas, one of the quickest ways to make a space feel more inviting is to employ the warmest of living room paint ideas. Warm colours can make you feel like you’re being greeted by a comforting hug every time you enter the space. Go for paint colours like yellows, oranges, pinks and reds.

Try your hand at scentscaping

Many people have been inspired to give their home a signature scent of late – so why not make the most of this sensory experience to add some oomph to your cosy living room ideas? Cinnamon, nutmeg, frankincense, and sandalwood inspire warmth and cosiness. If you don’t have a fire or aren’t a fan of candles, opt for reed diffusers and room sprays.

Set the scene with candlelight

Nothing creates a cosy ambience quite like candlelight. If your living space doesn’t have a real working fire, fill a central focus point with lanterns and assorted pillar candles to create a warming glow. Always be fire-safe when using candles in the home, and never leave them unattended.

Create a sofa cocoon

One of the cosiest of cosy living room ideas, Mrs Hinch’s sofa cocoon has inspired all of us to try to transform our humble sofas into hibernation destinations. You’ll need blankets, fluffy socks, cushions, and a footstool to prop your tootsies up.

CL 57

HOME&GARDEN

Low-cost hacks for

lazy gardeners 1. Planting on a budget

Perennials are an excellent choice for those looking to add a splash of colour to their garden while keeping costs low since they regrow every spring.

• Lavender You can find lavender plants online for less than £4 or a pack of seeds for less than £2.

Considering that a lavender plant can last 10 to 15 years, the cost per year is around 27p if you buy a plant or 13p if you grow it from seeds.

• Geraniums You can introduce these vibrant plants to your garden for around £2. While they provide consistent bursts of colour and charm for up to three years, they can become a bit woody and yield sparse blossoms as they age.

Keeping geraniums for at least five years costs around 40p per plant per year.

• Echinacea Known for their daisy-like blooms, young Echinacea plants can be acquired from garden centres for less than £5. Echinacea has a remarkable lifespan of up to 40 years in natural settings, which means these plants can cost as little as 2p per year if well cared for.

It’s advisable to divide it every four years in garden settings to ensure they flourish.

2. What Goes Up…

Hanging planters can become mini gardens for herbs such as basil, rosemary, and mint. Pallet gardens are also great for growing fruits and vegetables with a backyard or balcony. For vibrant décor in smaller spaces, consider climbing vines such as wisteria.

3. Potted plants

Potted plants are the answer for those looking to introduce versatility and ease into their garden.

They not only allow gardeners to play around with arrangements but having the ability to move these pots means plants can always get optimal sunlight.

4. Thank you very mulch

Mulch, a gardener’s secret weapon, is a material spread atop the soil. It is used to conserve moisture, improve soil health, and combat weed growth.

Mulches are made from many things, such as straw, wood chips, plastic and even rubber, but an ecofriendly, cost-effective tip is to use banana peels.

5. Hardy holly

Shrubs like boxwood or holly are resilient, can withstand the UK’s unpredictable weather, and demand very little care, and their evergreen presence ensures the garden looks lush year-round.

6. Lead the way

Beyond visual allure, gravel stands out for its affordability and functionality. The advantage of gravel is that it also promotes excellent drainage and is easier to lay than concrete or stone.

7. Reuse

These bottles can shield young seedlings from chilly spring breezes when placed upside-down.

Alternatively, fill them with warm water and use them as mini hot water bottles for your plants. CL CL 61

COACH LINDSAY

Coach Lindsay EMPOWERING OUR CHILDREN WITH AFFIRMATIONS

As important as it is for parents to encourage, love and support their children, it is just as important that children learn to create these positive emotions within themselves.

I

magazines and even more so, social media can be nurturing or damaging.

Negative beliefs can impact our lives greatly and can be hard to shift. But we learn to take control of our beliefs and this is where affirming positivity can play an impactful role. This can be done by repeating positive affirmations and incorporating them into the daily › routine of our children.

CL 65

▲

t is very empowering for a child to create positive thoughts and feelings of self-worth, and makes it much harder for people to tear them down. As much as we don’t like to think about it, children will go through hardship in life and we need to teach them on how to deal with those tough times.

As our children learn behaviours and wire their brains, positive affirmations can be extremely effective in nurturing their well-being. Affirming positive messages are like acts of kindness and love towards themselves that build self esteem and self belief. Children who develop a strong, positive inner voice can overcome difficulties as they get older. Mindful children are more likely to be focused, and have the ability to create their own happiness and find their own shining light within them.

We all develop belief systems about ourselves and the world around us from our childhood environments.

The beliefs we pick up from family and friends, role models, television,

COACH LINDSAY

How do affirmations work?

Regularly reciting positive affirmations for self esteem can interrupt the negative or anxious thoughts some children have. This act alone provides them with an incredible opportunity to retrain, rewire and reprogram their brains to think more positive thoughts.

If we can encourage children to focus on their positive traits then they are less likely to define themselves on their inner critical critter.

For example, a child who is struggling with anxiety might use a positive phrase such as “ I can do hard things”, while a child who is struggling with anger might say “I can stay calm and in control” when faced with a challenge.

Affirmations for children can be done in a variety of ways. Depending on the child, they may want to say their affirmations silently using their inner voice or they may want to visualise their affirmations, or say them out loud in front of a mirror, or maybe write down a few encouraging words they can glance at from time to time.

Positive affirmations can be said as needed or as a regular part of a daily routine. Morning affirmations are a great way to start the day with a healthy dose of positivity. And if parents and children go through positive affirmations together, this is a great conversation starter and encourages children to open up and speak more freely about their feelings.

phrases can be a powerful way for them to see their own greatness! If your child struggles with self-confidence, have them come up with three things they like about themselves, e.g. “I am kind. I am hardworking. I am funny.”

If they have a hard time thinking of qualities, it might be helpful to have a list of words handy to choose from.

Examples of positive affirmations for children Short and simple positive phrases work best for children. Giving your child space to come up with their own

Here are a few example affirmations to get you started: I am strong I believe in myself I matter I am happy I am deserving I am unique I am enough I am loved I love myself Children are never too young or old to start learning tools that will nurture their mental health and elevate their self-worth. Each child is different, so explore together the tools and positive affirmations that will help your child find their inner light.

No one will ever influence your child’s life the amount that their own thoughts will influence them. By teaching them a better way to talk to themselves, you’ll help them live their lives with inner confidence and strength.

Sending you all love and light.

Go gently on yourselves.

Coach Lindsay x

CL 67

BEST FOOT FORWARD

PROVIDING ADVICE AND TREATEMENTS FOR ALL TYPES OF FOOT PROBLEMS

Treatments offered • Verruca treatments • Diabetic foot checks • Neurovascular assessments • Callus and Corns treatments • Routine nail care • Orthotics and insoles • Biomechanical assessment for Lower Limb MSK • Cosmetic Podiatry Treatments Home Service Areas Colne, Nelson, Burnley, Foulridge, Barnoldswick, Barrowford and Earby

Miranda’s Acupuncture BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE COMBAT STRESS RELIEVE PAIN IMPROVE IMMUNE SYSTEM OPTIMISE DIGESTIVE FUNCTION mirandalharrington@gmail.com

ALL

GET ACTIVE AGAIN Our pain free MLS Laser Therapy treatment can

reduce pain and inflamation quickly Ideal for treating; • Arthritis 85% • Hip & back pain SUCC • Sports injuries ES RATE S • Tendonitis • and more

AVA I L A B L E

Pendle Chiropody Clinic Footcare | Biomechanics | Home Visits

Lower Limb Specialists

AT 10% DISCOUNT for all new patients on production of this advert QUOTE CLWINTER

Tel: 01282 870516 50 Albert Road, Colne, BB8 0AD Email: pendlechiropody@live.co.uk pendlechiropody

Pendle Chiropody Clinic

BEATING CRIME IN

COLNE

PENDLE’S ‘VOICE IN WESTMINSTER’ ANDREW STEPHENSON MP TALKS TO ColneLife ABOUT REDUCING CRIME AND IMPROVING TRANSPORT IN OUR TOWN

A

lthough out nationally. This is being funded from £2 million overall in funding through the Home Office’s Anti-Social crimes other Behaviour Action Plan. than fraud Operation Centurion is already visibly working, have fallen with crime down 8% across Lancashire in the last 50% across England since year, helped by the growing number of police I became Colne’s MP, too officers available. There’s more police on our often I hear from people streets than ever before following the early delivery who have seen or been of the manifesto commitment to recruit 20,000 affected by crime and extra officers, which is very welcome progress. anti-social behaviour. It’s However, I know that whether it’s tackling crimes Andrew Stephenson MP essential our towns are like shoplifting, dangerous driving or anti-social safe places to visit and that we feel secure at home fireworks, there’s still a lot to do to make sure we all and in our own community. feel safe in our town. I’ll continue to press for action That’s why over recent months, I have spent on all criminal and anti-social behaviour in Colne, time out and about on patrol with Colne’s local and for the police to get the resources they need. police and with the In other good Police and Crime news, Colne started “I’LL CONTINUE TO PRESS FOR Commissioner 2023 with the for Lancashire, great news that ACTION ON ALL CRIMINAL AND Andrew Snowden.

East Lancashire This was to hear ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR IN COLNE” would be getting about his work to £50 million from focus on tackling the Government’s crime and antiLevelling Up Fund social behaviour. to improve public Our police do a transport, walking difficult and often and cycling across dangerous job the region. Pendle keeping us all safe received more from and it was also good this than any other to get the chance to borough, and Colne thank them for all is central to the that they do. plans to improve Earlier this year, transport within Lancashire Police Pendle. Since then, launched Operation Lancashire County Centurion Council have been specifically to drawing up and Andrew Stephenson MP with Police and Crime tackle anti-social consulting on their Commissioner for Lancashire, Andrew Snowden behaviour, and plans. I’d be keen Colne is one of the towns seeing extra police to hear from readers who have ideas about how to resources through the initiative. Colne is getting an improve sustainable transport across the town. additional 168 hours of foot patrols each month, and Finally, inflation is falling but the cost of living this is already yielding results locally and nationally. remains a worry for many as we head into winter.

In Colne, in just a few months 271 nuisance vehicles I’ve welcomed the second round of Cost of Living have been seized and 211 people arrested for payments for 14,900 vulnerable households across supplying drugs, plus 414 more for criminal damage.

Pendle – part of a £94 billion package of support.

Across England, anti-social behaviour is reported to For those who are struggling during what remain be down nearly a third in those areas that are being difficult times, it is important to know there is targeted, with the aim now to roll the Action Plan support available. CL CL 71

A COLNER’S LIFE

DOWN UNDER

BY SOPHIA SMITH

I

Greetings from down under, where my adventure in the land of Oz continues to unfold! I’m back for the third time, and I’ve got some stories to share!

swapped Lancashire’s hills for Australia’s kangaroo burger – a one-off experience for travel sunny shores nine months ago, and while it’s stories, not a repeat offender. getting colder for you, it’s warming up for Next was Brisbane; flying alone for the first time summer here! As a Lancashire lass accustomed from Melbourne was nerve-wracking. For anyone to a fair share of drizzle, this is quite exciting. that knows me, I have dealt with anxiety for many A recent escapade took me to Sydney, a city years. But against all odds, I proved to myself I am renowned for its architectural brave, and there is nothing to wonders like the Sydney Opera fear apart from my mind trying “NOT ONLY HAVE House and the Harbour Bridge. to convince me otherwise! Apart Despite the warnings from many from an hour’s delay, the flight I SEEN MY FIRST Melbourne folks that I might went perfectly.

KANGAROO, BUT I’VE I stayed with my friend Jake, a not fancy Sydney as much, I felt quite the opposite. They brought up in Queensland.

ALSO EATEN ONE!” Kiwi also mentioned it would be a After watching the 80’s Aussie tad warmer, and they weren’t flick with Kylie Minogue, “The kidding – the heat was cranked up several notches!

Delinquents,” I got inspired to follow in Lola and Not only have I seen my first kangaroo, but I’ve Brownie’s footsteps! I went on an adventure and also eaten one! Tasting a kangaroo burger was not visited all the spots featured in the movie – from the exotic culinary experience I was expecting; it strolling across the Story Bridge to the South Bank was just like eating a regular beef burger. Yet, the Parklands, Queen Street Mall and even Regent feeling of guilt remained in each bite. Note to self: Theatre for a touch of old-school cinema longing. I CL 72

The Brisbane Bridge

Feeding a kangaroo

“YOU CAN’T ESCAPE NORTHERNERS, EVEN DEEP IN THE AUSSIE COUNTRYSIDE”

At Sovereign Hill Living Museum

also visited The Brisbane Bridge, a magnificent steel giant.

Last week, I hopped on a VLine train to Ballarat, a train that travels through Victoria’s countryside. Expecting a regular journey, I looked out the window to see a mob of kangaroos jumping alongside the train as I chugged along. I couldn’t tear my eyes away until they disappeared.

I was going to Sovereign Hill, a living museum transporting visitors to the 1850s Australian gold rush. I tried my hand at panning for gold in the creek but failed miserably. A horse-drawn carriage ride through Sovereign Hill’s streets, and interestingly, an actor there hailed from York, of all places, reminding me that you can’t escape northerners, even deep in the Aussie countryside.

But that’s not all; I also reunited with one of my school pals, Annie-Mae, who has moved down the road from us in this sprawling city! Our little trio took a day trip to Brighton Beach, Melbourne’s most renowned seaside destination. It’s celebrated for its

remarkable lineup of rainbow-hued bathing boxes that line the shore like bright crayons. I can still picture Annie attempting to cartwheel across the sands.

I also stumbled upon Melbourne’s hidden gem—the Fairfield Boathouse—where I hopped in a rowboat and embarked on an expedition along the Yarra River. It was a retreat from city life and the perfect excuse to work off my last round of fish and chips.

Now, let’s talk about the chippy tea, because there’s something incredibly comforting about traditional British cuisine. However, the nostalgic flavours of home have, until recently, been somewhat limited. That is until you come across the Northern Soul chip shop in St Kilda.

I recently also had the misfortune of trying a Sunday roast at a British-themed pub. I’m all about embracing a taste of home when you’re far away, but the roast seemed to have taken a dip in the chilly English Channel. If I wanted a taste of a British winter again, I got it – on a plate.

Last week marked a whole year since my double mastectomy and reconstruction, and I’m embracing life more than ever. I can’t help but raise a glass filled with SPF 50 to the countless laughs, tears, and memories brought my way in my Oz odyssey. For now, I bid farewell, as more uncharted territories await me! CL

CL 73

NOVEMBER Fri 17th COMFORT CAFE Holy Trinity Community Centre, Tatton Street, Colne A safe space for anyone affected by grief and loss. Lunch and brews provided. 11 am to 1 pm.

NATTERSHACK Colne Citadel, Market Place, Colne If you enjoy meeting new people, come and take a seat. Who knows who you may meet? Every Friday at 11am. facebook.com/citadelcolne LAST QUIZ NIGHT OF 2023 Colne F.C., Holt House, Harrison Drive, Colne Drinks and match day tickets are up for grabs together with prizes for the 2nd place team, plus a booby prize for the team with the most minor points!

A maximum of six per team & includes free pizza. Grab a few friends and

get this date in your diary! Not only will you have a great night, but you’ll be supporting your local club, too. £2. 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Sat 18th VOLUNTEER SATURDAYS Harwes Farm, Foulridge, BB8 7QH Claire Coulton oversees the developing allotment; it’s as much about community and relationships, cooking and eating, and first-class foodies as it is about growing things and nature connection for well-being. Saturdays are an opportunity to expand the welcome to everyone! 10 am. Free. harwesfarm.org ARTS, CRAFTS & GIFTS FAIR Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne Each year in November, the Hippodrome Theatre is transformed into an exhibition hall for their annual Arts, Crafts and Gifts Fair. There are always over 70 exhibitors, and the Fair CL 75

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER - JANUARY

ColneLife’s

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

is one of the largest locally. Lunches and afternoon teas are available, and the licenced bar is open. £1 entry allows you access to the Fair all for the full week. 18 Nov - 26 Nov. pendlehippodrome.com Sun 19th SO, WHAT’S THE STORY? Harwes Farm, Foulridge, BB8 7QH Outdoor educator Danny English will lead a family to wander through Kelbrook Wood on Sunday, 19th November. They will look at the life story of some of our oldest trees.

Danny, however, isn’t just clever about nature. He is a master storyteller, too - so the wander that day will include plenty of imagination, magic and mythology. Fetch a packed lunch and a cushion to sit on! 10 am-2 pm.

Free. harwesfarm.org PAUL TAYLOR Colne Legion Club, Keighley Road, Colne A Country & Western favourite, refreshments are available. £3. 2pm - 5pm. colnelegionclub.co.uk ›

CINDERELLA 1-31.2023 MARTIN KEMP 19.1.2024 Stuart Michael Medium 26.1.2024

BOX OFFICE QUAY TICKETS 0343 2080 500 WWW.QUAYTICKETS.COM/BOLTONALBERTHALLS

WHAT’S ON GUIDE SUNDAY FUNDAY Foulridge Village Hall, 6 Parkinson St, Foulridge Picnic grazing boxes on sale, singer, raffle, stand-up bingo, sticky 13 cards.

Prizes to be won! Picnic grazing boxes are available to pre-order at £6.50 each. Please add names and dietary requirements on the form in the club.

SUNDAY CLUB St Michael and All Angels Church, Foulridge Fun, stories and activities at 9.30 am.

Tues 21st WELLBEING ORACLE GROUP Saint’z Dragons, 16 Church Street, Colne Come for a chat and learn more about Oracle cards. For every level. From 11 am. £2. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits. Every Tuesday.

Fri 24th BINGO NIGHT Colne Legion Club, Keighley Road, Colne All welcome. £100 jackpot flyer.

Members draw & a meat raffle after bingo. 7pm-9pm. colnelegionclub.co.uk WHISKY TASTING EVENING Trawden Arms Community Shop, Trawden Here’s your chance to stock the spirit counter in the run-up to Christmas or even do some gift shopping too!

Of course, there will be pie & peas included on the evening and there is even have some ‘Supper Only’ tickets, £5, for none drinkers who may be attending! £20. 7pm. Tickets available in the shop.

Sat 25th LANCASHIRE NIGHT Christ Church, Keighley Road, Colne Featuring local musicians, a hotpot supper and a bar. Optional dress code of shawls, flat cap and braces. £10. 7.30 pm. Call 01282 866 313 for tickets.

QUEENS OF SOUL WITH TARYN CHARLES AT PARK HILL BARN Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson An evening of spellbinding ballads and dance floor fillers as international female vocalist Taryn Charles (as seen on ITV’s STARSTRUCK) takes to the stage to perform hits from the Queens of Soul such as Mariah, Whitney, Celine Dion and

more! This is the party night you’ve been waiting for! 8 pm. From £16.50. parkhillbarn.co.uk CHRISTMAS IN COLNE 2023 Colne Town Centre, Colne What a jam-packed day in store for you, including a wide variety of free entertainment from noon throughout the town centre, children’s fun fair rides, a giant Christmas market, finished off with a spectacular firework finale, plus so much more! 11 am to 8pm.

FESTIVE MARKET Nelson & Colne College Don’t miss the Festive Market at Nelson and Colne College on Saturday, 26th November, 10 am - 2 pm. FREE festive fun activities for the whole family! Feast at the winter food court, discover unique crafts and gifts, explore the enchanting festive market stalls, revel in family fun, and that’s just the beginning! Plus, so much more! Visit nelson.ac.uk.

BACKBEATS BAND Colne Legion Club, Keighley Road, Colne Brilliant local musicians. Very popular in the area. 8.30 pm-11.30 pm. colnelegionclub.co.uk Sun 26th CHRISTMAS FAYRE AT HAPPA Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Black House Lane, Briercliffe, Burnley, Local businesses, artisans and craft makers will ensure a shopper’s paradise event in the indoor arena. Ticket entry includes access to HAPPA as well as the Christmas Fayre. £6. 11 am- 4pm. happa.org.uk MUSIC LIVE FOR PENDLESIDE Colne Legion Club, Keighley Road, Colne Live music to raise money for Pendleside Hospice. From 2 pm. £5. Tel No 07882 809056. colnelegionclub.co.uk Thurs 28th DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Saint’z Dragons, 16 Church Street, Colne Want to play D&D but not sure where to start? Why not come along to a D&D session? Perfect for beginners and anyone ages 16 and over! We will provide everything you need - pencils, dice, paper and character sheets! Just bring yourself and come and join a crazy adventure full of goblins, dragons and wizards! This session is £5 entry.

Tea/coffee and biscuits provided!

CL 77 73

Fri 29th FESTIVE CRAFT FAIR Trawden Community Centre, Trawden A wonderful evening, they are celebrating local crafters and creators and giving you the chance to support them! Lots of old favourites and some new stall holders will be in attendance with their handcrafted items. Refreshments and mulled wine are available. 2pm-7pm. Free. trawdenforest.com Thurs 30th WOOF SHACK Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Black House Lane, Briercliffe, Burnley A free social group for dogs and their people. Planned regular walks, games, specialist talks, advice and much more. Last Thursday of every month.

30 Nov-23 Aug 24. happa.org.uk

DECEMBER Fri 1st FESTIVAL OF LIGHT AND ANGELS St Michael and All Angels Church, Foulridge With Blackburn Chamber Choir and director John Robinson. Tickets from £10. 7.30 pm. blackburnchamberchoir. org ROD STEWART TRIBUTE ACT Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson An unforgettable evening of festive merriment and iconic music as we present the Rod Stewart Christmas Party Tribute Night at the enchanting Park Hill Barn. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and relive the magic of classic hits performed by our extraordinary Rod Stewart tribute act. 7 pm. £36.50 per person. parkhillbarn.co.uk Sat 2nd FANDJANGO The Dressers, 2-4 Hall Street, Colne A brilliant local favourite bringing their unique jazzy style that never fails to get people on their feet. Free entry. 10pm. fandjango.co.uk ›

WHAT’S ON GUIDE Sun 3rd CHRISTMAS BREAD BAKING COURSE Deerstones Bakery, Colne Learn to make spectacular Christmas baked treats: cranberry wreath, stilton & walnut braided loaf. £ 90. facebook. com/deerstonesbakery Fri 8th GEORGE MICHAEL TRIBUTE ACT Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson Get ready to be amazed by the sensational Rod Stewart tribute act, who will transport you back in time with impeccable renditions of the legendary artist’s greatest hits.

From “Faith” to “Last Christmas”, you’ll be singing and dancing along all night long. 7 pm. £36.50 per person. parkhillbarn.co.uk

emotionally and mentally with parenting. 10 am-11 am. Every Friday. manager@opendoorcentre.org.uk Sat 16th FATHER CHRISTMAS VISITS THE CITADEL Colne Citadel, Market Place, Colne Includes turkey dinosaurs and chips and beans/peas, cordial, and mince pies.

There are rumours that the Grinch may be there... £7.50. 1 pm- 3 pm.

Sat 23rd SWING INTO CHRISTMAS Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne Pendle Hippodrome Theatre presents ‘Swing Into Christmas’ featuring The Swing City Big Band and Guests.

Adults £10, Under 16s £1. £10. 7.30 pm. pendlehippodrome.com/whats-on/ swing-into-Christmas

JANUARY Sat 5th

Sat 9th

ELVIS TRIBUTE ACT Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary Elvis Christmas Party Tribute Night. Secure your tickets now and make this holiday season one to remember.

Prepare to sing, dance, and make lasting memories at Park Hill Barn’s most anticipated festive event! 7 pm. £36.50 per person. parkhillbarn.co.uk

BRING ON TOMORROW Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne Basics Junior Theatre School present ‘Bring on Tomorrow’, with some amazing dancing and singing. Showing at 2pm and 7pm. pendlehippodrome. com/whats-on/bring-on-tomorrow

FESTIVE FUN WINTER WORKSHOP Trawden Forest Community Centre, Church Street, Trawden A fun-filled afternoon of Christmas singing, drama and crafts for children aged 4 to 11. 1 pm - 4 pm. trawdenforest.com

Fri 15th

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne Pendle Hippodrome Theatre presents Frank Capra’s ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’, starring James Stewart and Donna Reed. Admission is free, but donations are most welcome. 7pm. pendlehippodrome.com/whats-on/itsa-wonderful-life

ALADDIN Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley Renowned for its high-quality shows, the award-winning Burnley Pantomime Society are set to thrill audiences once again with one of the most popular tales ever told and packed with comedy, great music, stunning scenery, wonderful costumes, heroes, villains, audience participation and all the excitement that only pantomime can provide. Various times. £12/£14. 1221 Jan 24. blcgroup.co.uk

MADONNA TRIBUTE ACT Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson Get ready to be amazed by our sensational Madonna tribute act, which will transport you back in time with impeccable renditions of the legendary artist’s greatest hits. From “Like a Prayer” to “Into the Groove”, you’ll be singing and dancing along all night long. 7 pm. £36.50 per person. parkhillbarn. co.uk CRASH! LIVE AT THE MORRIS DANCERS Morris Dancers Sizzling Pub, Byron Road, Colne Join in for a pre-crimbo boogie in true CRASH style! You know it’s going to be epic! 9 pm.

PARENTS’ SUPPORT GROUP Open Door, 1 Great George St, Colne.

The group is a friendly and relaxed way of seeking support if you struggle

Sun 17th CHRISTMAS BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH Park Hill Barn at Pendle Heritage Centre, Nelson Join us for an unforgettable evening of festive merriment and iconic music as we present the Christmas Bottomless Brunch at the enchanting Park Hill Barn.

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and relive the magic of classic Christmas hits performed by the amazing Jess McGlinchey! 2 pm. £39.50. parkhillbarn.co.uk CL 78

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK The Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, Colne A pantomime full of Fe, Fi, Fo & Fun! Don’t miss this year’s spectacular pantomime featuring a superb cast, beautiful scenery, colourful costumes, amazing special effects and lots and lots of laughs! £14. 5-21 Jan 2024. pendlehippodrome.com Fri 12th

Sat 20th GHOST HUNT Colne Town Hall, Albert Road, Colne Built in 1894 as a meeting place for the town council. People have noticed things move behind them and seen figures going up and down the stairs. £36. 20-21 Jan 2024. spiritseekers.info CL

TO PROMOTE YOUR CHARITY EVENT IN FUTURE EDITIONS FREE OF CHARGE PLEASE SCAN THE CODE BELOW...