Made Lifestyle Magazine – issue 33. Mar/Apr 23.

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NEWS & EVENTS HOME & GARDEN FOOD & DRINK FASHION & BEAUTY BUSINESS & LEISURE ART & CULTURE Issue 33 Mar/Apr 2023 £3 .25 Explore Village In Focus EDWINSTOWE Chesterfield Canal CANALS ARE GOOD FOR YOU Discover The Framework Knitters Museum IN THE FRAME Idle Valley Nature Reserve THE WILD YEAR AHEAD Indulge Recipes From Teresa Bovey SUPER GREENS Green Heart Centrepiece At Broad Marsh Local Brewery’s Sustainable Innovations New Nature Reserves Announced Connect With The Natural World Sustainability Plans At Clumber Date For The Diary: Earth Hour Low Carbon Nuclear Fusion Energy Efficiency At Home Peat Free In Your Garden Upcycling & Antiques Sustainable Farming Sustainable Fashion Electric Vehicles Made in Notts

Made

Welcome to the March/April issue.

Welcome to the March/April issue of Made. Spring is in the air and it's time to shake off those dark wintery nights and enjoy the new awakenings. In this issue we'll be taking a closer look at the environmentally friendly aspects around us. What is happening in our region, what we can do in our homes and gardens and how being sustainable and more eco conscious can change our health for the better too.

Here at Made we believe being environmentally conscious isn’t just about buying from and supporting the eco friendly companies. It becomes part of your own personal ethos, in all aspects of not only how we live but also how we work, and the businesses we work with.

Made Lifestyle magazine is printed by an award-winning environmentally-friendly printer based in the UK. The magazines are produced using vegetable-based inks combined with the latest “chemical-free” plate and Heidelberg press technology. All papers are sourced from well-managed, sustainable forests as is their supply-chain, which holds many environmental accreditations. They hold a Climate Change Agreement along with ISO14001, ISO9001, FSC, PEFC and offer Carbon Balancing via The World Land Trust, and achieved a E2B Silver award for energy improvements along with an E2B Gold award for recycling; 98.5% of all their waste is recycled. Even the packaging for Made for our drop off points is manufactured from 100% recycled materials and is fully recyclable and our postage bags are recyclable paper too.

We hope that you find inspiration in these pages, we have all of our regulars as well as some lovely features to peruse covering a vast array of wonderful individuals and businesses in Notts.

Don't forget on the 25th of March to take an hour for Earth Hour where we can all take a moment to switch off and help the planet, a small amount of time to make a big impact. Little steps towards a better tomorrow, start today.

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Inside This Issue

News & Events

08 The Local Roundup & March/April Events

The latest news and events from across the region.

Features

28 A Wild Year Ahead At Idle Valley Nature Reserve

A month by month guide to the reserve's wild highlights. Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

30 Canals Are Good For You

Canals can lift your spirits in many ways, here Rod Auton tells us how.

35 Edwinstowe In Focus

Nestled within the heart of Sherwood lies the wonderful, quaint, busy village of Edwinstowe. Steeped in history and legend, Edwinstowe has so much more to offer than just stories of Robin Hood and his merry men. From shopping and eating out, to pampering and perusing, this village has it all.

40 In The Frame

The Framework Knitters Museum in Ruddington is a unique surviving example of a 19th century framework knitters’ yard. Made took a trip over to find out more about this fascinating living history museum.

Home & Garden

44 Are You Looking For A Change In Lifestyle? Why Your Garden Might Be The Answer

Gardens offer escapism and relaxation for busy individuals. For others, they are a place to relax and unwind, to enjoy spending time with family and friends. Sarah Murch, Ellicar Gardens, shares her knowledge.

Health & Beauty

55 A Natural Connection

Can reconnecting with the natural world really improve our lives and the planets future? Chris Collins, Life Coach explains...

Food & Drink

59 Super Greens

A selection of wonderfully tasty and healthy plant based recipes. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Travel & Leisure

38

Exploring Edwinstowe

Take it easy in Edwinstowe with this lovely walk from travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

70 Kuki Take Flight

Simon Nicholls and Matthew Peach are leading the way with flying colours in avaition training here in Nottinghamshire. With a fleet of six aircraft the sky really is the limit!

72 An Electrifying Experience

A day in the life of a BMW iX xDrive 40. A perfectly formed SUV, fully charged and ready for action.

Mar/Apr 23

New Nature Reserves

Nottinghamshire County Council set to create five new local nature reserves.

In Notts, there are 67 local nature reserves. The County Council currently owns six and is now embarking on the first steps in the designation process, including preparing detailed management plans, for the sites that will be submitted to Natural England. The sites proposed include: Cotgrave Country Park and Cotgrave Greenway, Dob Park, Hucknall, Kimberley Green and the Great North Railway Path, Kimberley, Newstead Old Coal Stocking Yard, Freckland Wood and the Linby Trail.

Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Communities said: “The sites put forward are at the heart of local communities, and provide accessible natural spaces to explore, play, learn and enjoy - which are important for wellbeing and quality of life."

For the full story visit: www. nottinghamshire.gov.uk

News The local roundup

Sherwood Observatory Plans Leap Ahead

An incredible £3.1million funding has been confirmed for Sherwood Observatory, one of Ashfield District Council’s Towns Fund projects.

The Council has been working with Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society who have developed the plans for Sherwood Observatory, Sutton, which will see a planetarium and educational centre join the observatory as part of the Council’s £62.6million Towns Fund.

The plans for the observatory will create a unique experience that will draw visitors from across the East Midlands, and beyond, to Ashfield.

The news of the funding follows the planning application submitted by Mansfield and Sutton Astrological Society to Ashfield District Council in November 2022. Subject to match funding, the project will soon be underway.

Councillor Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Regeneration and Corporate Transformation, said, “I am over the moon that Ashfield District Council working with Sherwood Observatory and

Discovery Ashfield have secured £3.1million funding from the Levelling Up Fund. The observatory is one of Ashfield’s greatest assets and Mansfield & Sutton Astronomical Society (MSAS) have developed a great plan to turn it into a fantastic visitor and educational centre.

“The Council have previously committed funding, as well as securing funding for the project through our £62.6million Towns Fund as we are know how fantastic the plans for the observatory are. It will bring enormous benefits it will bring to the local economy, and education, in Ashfield, and will draw visitors from across the East Midlands. The observatory is one of our key projects that will have a positive impact on Ashfield’s local tourism and help shape ambitions for future generations.”

Planetarium project manager Steve Wallace said: “Securing the Levelling Up Round 2 contribution marks an important milestone in

the project journey. Subject to securing the matched funding work can start on the development in the middle of this year and the new centre will be open and fully operational by our ideal time frame of autumn 2024. It will be a jewel in the crown of the local visitor economy, creating a unique tourist attraction that will help put this area on the map and attract people from across the UK to Ashfield.”

Local business leader and chair of the project board, Martin Rigley, said. “The jobs and prosperity of our area will be increasingly dependent on having a STEMeducated workforce. The new planetarium and visitor centre will play a key role in presenting these subjects in an exciting and hands-on way to raise awareness of the opportunities a STEM career can unlock.”

Read the full story and further updates on the news section on: www.ashfield.gov.uk

8 News & Events

Welbeck Abbey Brewery Embracing Sustainability

Welbeck Abbey Brewery is continuously seeking ways to minimise its environmental impact by creating a dynamic, sustainability ethos throughout the brewery.

A savvy move to in-house bottling has enabled them to realise several green goals: a reduction in beer transportation mileage, together with moving away from filtered and forcecarbonated bottled beers to the more natural process of bottle-conditioning.

One of the serious upsides for drinkers is a better flavour profile in the beer more akin to cask ale in a pub - a ‘gift’ for everybody!

After an analysis of what, why and how, a number of clever carbon saving changes were singled-out including relocating the refrigeration chiller to use the heat by-product to help with natural beer fermentation. The main office is heated this way too, effecting reduced energy costs and carbon footprint. Spent hops and grain are already used to fertilise the Welbeck Estate and currently, the Team are focussing on innovative projects to reuse wastewater.

Claire Monk, General Manager, said ‘We consider ourselves heritage guardians

Conquer A New Hobby

At the new climbing centre at the YMCA Community & Activity Village in Newark.

of the Welbeck Estate and as such we endeavour to help maintain it’s longevity by working sustainably. And, just as importantly, our craft beer customers are conscientious consumers with a keen interest in sustainability and therefore selective about who they buy their beer from’.

The Brewery is particularly keen on customer collaboration: customers return the brewery’s cardboard bottle boxes, which are then reused for subsequent deliveries. The success of the scheme means that the stack is internally referred to as ‘The Leaning Tower of Pisa!’

Future challenges for the Brewery include a comprehensive environmental audit evaluating each department to find ways to conserve natural resources. ‘Thinking efficiently’ is part of the brewery culture and integral to achieving a longterm sustainable business.

For further details, to shop and book tours visit: www. welbeckabbeybrewery. co.uk

People of all ages looking to learn an exciting new hobby or hone existing skills in 2023 can now try out the brand new Climbing Centre at the YMCA Community & Activity Village in Newark, Nottinghamshire.

The YMCA Climbing Centre is home to an Olympicstandard speed wall and bouldering with rope climbing from six to 15.5 metres. A colourful and fun Clip ‘n Climb zone is also set to open in early 2023, aimed at younger climbers, who can enjoy a variety of challenges and learn new skills.

Team GB speed climber

Matthew Fell is a regular visitor, and the Centre is equally suited to complete beginners, with instructorled sessions available throughout the week.

Hundreds of different features, challenges and holds are on offer throughout the different zones and the YMCA Climbing Centre is built to the highest European standards, providing a safe and fun way to keep fit and get active.

The different areas provide an excellent view across the Centre, where climbers can enjoy around 60 rope climbs and around 120 boulder problems. Climbers can tackle vertical, overhang and slab climbing in the bouldering zone, while the IFSC Olympic-standard speed wall provides a timer for speed climbing and training

Luke Mansfield, Climbing Centre Manager, said:

“Climbing is a fantastic hobby and we welcome people of all ages and abilities here, from children to people in their 80s. Whether you come along to a session alone or with friends, you are sure to have a great time and our expert coaches will be on hand to help you get the most out of the experience.

“Climbing brings so many benefits for both physical and mental health. It’s all about learning to challenge yourself In a supportive environment, and knowing that you can fail then get right back up again and learn from those mistakes.

“Members of the climbing community are used to travelling far and wide, from Sheffield to Shrewsbury, but now we have a great modern indoor facility right here in Newark. We have already seen huge demand for sessions, so I’d encourage you to register now on the website if you are interested in attending.

“The YMCA Climbing Centre is an incredible addition to the region and it could even be home to the next generation of Team GB climbing talent. From seasoned climbers to complete newcomers, we can’t wait to welcome you to this wonderful new facility.”

Bookings can be made via the website, at: ymcanewarksherwood. org/climbing-centre where membership options are also available.

News & Events 10

Sustainability At Clumber Park

The team at Clumber Park explain how they keep sustainability in mind with environmentally friendly practices throughout the year.

There are many ways in which the Clumber Park Gardens team will continue their efforts to work in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way throughout 2023.

Coffee grounds and veg clippings from their food and beverage outlets make a great addition to the team’s homemade compost. Also added to the compost mix are soft green materials such as grass clippings and weeds, as well as woody brown material like pruning’s and dead leaves from the garden itself. All the compost used at Clumber is also peat free with the National Trust being one of the first organisations to commit to going peat free. All the plants the team grow, buy and sell are potted in peat-free compost, and they never use peat for mulching or soil improvement.

Many visitors enjoy the spectacular displays created by the team in the Glasshouse in the walled kitchen garden. This year the gardeners are growing flowers specifically for drying, a sustainable addition to the displays that will be created.

Along areas such as Cedar Walk and the walled kitchen garden slips, ropes and posts have been installed to protect 140,000 spring bulbs from boots and paws. Once the plants

have finished flowering, the ropes and posts will be used to create bug houses in the garden.

Last summer, the National Trust installed some temporary wooden play equipment on site In Cow Pastures. This was dismantled in the autumn and the materials have been used for many different gardening projects such as creating hot beds and frames for interpretation which lets visitors know what’s happening.

With advances in power capacity and capability, the team have begun transitioning away from fuel-based equipment and use battery powered leaf blowers and strimmers. They also travel around the site on electric vehicles.

Later in the year the orchards in the walled kitchen garden will be bursting with produce. Although most of it is harvested and available for visitors to purchase, the team ensures they leave some windfall fruit for wildlife to enjoy.

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news and events at Clumber Park, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park

Events

Mother's Day Spring Wreath Making

16 Mar, 12.30pm - 2.30pm

To celebrate Mother's day, enjoy a spring wreath making session with an afternoon tea and the option of a glass of prosecco in our Parsonage.

With Mother's Day fast approaching and spring around the corner, what better way to celebrate than with a spring wreath-making workshop. Join us in the Parsonage for a 2 hour guided session on how to make a spring-themed wreath. All materials and afternoon tea are included in the ticket price. An optional glass of prosecco can be include for £5.

Please note that this event is not on Mother's Day itself, it is on the Thursday before (16th of March)

Easter Adventures At Clumber Park

Dates from 1 Apr, 10am - 3pm Head to the Discovery Centre to start your adventure!

Our Easter helpers will provide you with a trail sheet, bunny ears and pencil before you set out on your adventure and when you've finished, head back to the Discovery Centre to receive your Easter Egg and enjoy our seasonal activities indoors. The trail costs £3 per trail pack, which is inclusive of the egg prize. Please note that we prefer to take card payment where possible.

To ensure you have enough time to enjoy the trail we advise that you arrive before 3pm as the last egg collection is 3.55pm, due to the Discovery Centre closing at 4pm.

You can complete your activities in any order; they range from 'Easter Bunny's Sports Day' to 'Wild Art' so that there's something for everyone. The majority of activities are within a short walk from the Main Visitor Facilities, but we've included a few that are a little further afield for our longer-legged participants. It's also possible to tick off up to 7 of your '50 Things to do before you're 11 & 3/4' on this trail!

We encourage everyone to get involved in this trail, as people of all ages can get involved, however if you feel this one is not for you, we are also running a different trail for adults to get involved in from the same location.

Full details and more events: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ clumber-park

News & Events 11
Image courtesy of Mark Edgehill.

‘Green Heart’ Centrepiece For Nottingham’s Broad Marsh

Work starts this year on the creation of a new ‘Green Heart’ in Nottingham city centre as part of the ongoing regeneration of the Broad Marsh area, which has seen a huge transformation in 2022.

The Green Heart is the centrepiece of Nottingham City Council’s vision for Broad Marsh, created with the Greater Broad Marsh Advisory Group and world renowned designer Thomas Heatherwick.

The first phase of the Green Heart will see an area the size of the pitch at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground located between Collin Street and Lister Gate – previously part of the old Broad Marsh shopping centre – covered in trees and planting, creating a natural, tranquil green space with pathways between Nottingham Station and Old Market Square.

One of the features of the Green Heart is what is believed to be the longest bench in the UK stretching across the space allowing people to linger and enjoy the environment.

Major progress has been made in the ongoing transformation of Broad Marsh over the last year.

The demolition of the west side of the shopping centre building with funding secured from D2N2, the Local Enterprise Partnership, via the Government’s Getting Building Fund, has made space for the new Green Heart and enabled a new pedestrian Right of Way to be created across the site. This has provided uninterrupted open air access between the Southside of the city into the city centre for the first time since the

Broadmarsh centre was built nearly half a century ago.

Other key developments in include:

• Work starting on the fit-out of a stateof-the-art new Central Library

• The opening of the new Bus Station

• The creation of new public space and public art around Sussex Street and Carrington Street

• Progress on a detailed business case for the wider redevelopment of Broad Marsh

• Submission of a bid to the Government’s Levelling Up Fund for developing the Frame as a key element of the Broad Marsh vision

• Submission of an Investment Zone ‘expression of interest’ application.

In addition to work starting on the new Green Heart, 2023 will be another year of significant progress for Broad Marsh.

• The new Central Library is expected to be completed and ready to open later in 2023.

• A unique new Skateable Space is being created as part of the public realm works on Sussex Street, underlining Nottingham’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading cities for skateboarding.

• A major new study into rejuvenating the unique cave network underneath Broad Marsh, is to be published by the University of Nottingham.

• Further work on the wider Master Plan and detailed business case for the

Broad Marsh redevelopment.

• ‘Meanwhile use’ opportunities will be progressed while the long term development plans are being finalised.

Councillor David Mellen, the Leader of Nottingham City Council said: “The ongoing transformation of Broad Marsh and the wider south side of the city over the last year has been a real positive for the city. The new green public spaces around the new Nottingham College building, along with recently opened bus station and new car park, which is proving so popular, have made a huge difference to the area.

“The opening of the new Central Library next year and the first phase of work to create the Green Heart will be further major milestones in the regeneration of what is such an important gateway to the city centre.

“The Green Heart is one of the key elements of the long term vision we unveiled last year and something there was huge support for among the thousands of responses we received as part of the council’s Big Conversation about Broad Marsh.

“There is more work to be done to move forward with the wider vision but it’s great to see major progress being made on the ground.”

Thomas Heatherwick, Founder and Design Director of Heatherwick Studio, said: “The world has fundamentally changed and city centres can’t just be about retail and shopping any more. They have to become amazing social spaces and bring nature back into, onto and around the buildings. Nottingham is at the forefront of this movement and doing it with a whole lot of bravery and creativity. We are proud to be on the journey with you.”.

For full details and updates visit: www.mynottinghamnews.co.uk

Artist impression of the Green Heart.
News & Events
Image courtesy of Nottingham City Council.

North Notts BID Supports Night Time Economy

North Notts BID is making significant investments to enhance the night-time experience in Worksop and Retford town centres.

Working in partnership with night-time economy (NTE) specialists Six Till Six, the BID is looking to devise and implement a strategy to help its hospitality sector recover post-pandemic.

Six Till Six was appointed by North Notts BID in February last year to develop business and consumer research programmes to evidence the needs from business owners and gauge public sentiment - undertaking surveys, interviews, overnight audits and secondary research.

Sylvia Oates, chief executive of Six Till Six, said: “We help bring together leisure and statutory partners to

deliver a safer and more prosperous night-time economy, and are thrilled to have partnered with North Notts BID to deliver a review and help formulate its NTE strategy. The BID shows great ambition and we are positive that there is lots of potential for growth and expansion for new and existing businesses.

“We consider wellbeing, movement, appeal, place and policy to be the key determining factors for a successful NTE. We are analysing our research to inform the development of bespoke NTE strategies for Retford and Worksop, introducing new innovations and established sector support mechanisms

such as training, positive policy development, compliance support, advice and technology.”

Sally Gillborn, chief executive of North Notts BID, said: “The BID will put into place measures to address these issues to ensure that our towns are as attractive, safe and accessible as possible. This will help to increase evening footfall and support our hospitality venues with people eating, drinking and generally spending locally.”

For more information about North Notts BID, visit www.northnottsbid.co.uk For more information about Six till Six, visit www.sixtillsix.com.

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Events International Women's Day 2023

8 Mar

#EmbraceEquity

Look out for events near you for International Women's Day, let's all fully #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn't just a nice-tohave, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA. And it's critical to understand the difference between equity and equality. International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere.

#IWD2023

www.international womensday.com

Share Your Events

If you have an event you’d like to share with Made we’d love to hear from you. Email: hello@madeinn.co.uk or call: 01777 712609

Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed here are correct it is advisable to check before the event in case of alterations or planning changes.

www.madeinn.co.uk

Chatsworth opens the door to your creative side

Chatsworth is opening its doors to those looking to explore their creative side, with a season of discovery and exploration.

People of all levels of skill and interest are being invited to take part in expert-led courses throughout the house and garden during the habitual ‘closed' season of conservation and cleaning, from now until late March.

In-house experts at Chatsworth will be joined by artists, curators and makers from the Peak District Artisans association and further afield, to guide and teach on subjects such as sketching in the Sculpture Gallery, oil painting in the garden, print making and drawing, paper wreathmaking and much more.

These creative classes will run alongside a programme of complementary talks and tours on subjects ranging from future developments in the garden, the forthcoming design exhibition ‘Mirror Mirror', textiles and conservation, to a celebration of Derbyshire women on International Women's Day.

Gill Hart, Head of Learning and Engagement: "We're fortunate to have many people at Chatsworth with tremendous expertise in their subject as well as links to artists and makers across the region and beyond.

"Many of our visitors have told us how they are inspired by our art collections, so we're aiming to help them develop their creativity and gain a deeper understanding and insight into Chatsworth while exploring their interests in a new way.

"It's a wonderful opportunity to host creative workshops in the house and garden while the estate is closed for its annual programme of conservation. Some of the events such as Sketching in the Sculpture Gallery would be unfeasible at any other time of year."

For further details visit: ww.chatsworth.org/events

Events International Women's Day - A Celebration Of Derbyshire Women

10 Mar

Celebrating local Derbyshire women from a diverse range of backgrounds through their small businesses, art and services to the communities of Derbyshire.

Sketching In The Sculpture Gallery

11 Mar

Expert tuition in a drawing masterclass includes exclusive access to the Sculpture Gallery while the house is closed.

Paper Wreaths And Posies With Kim Bevan

19 Mar

A hands-on Mother's Day workshop led by paper artist Kim Bevan - make delicate paper flowers using recycled paper and develop them into a spring wreath or posy.

Historic Textiles And Conservation Tour

18 Apr

See the ongoing work needed to conserve textiles, sometimes hundreds of years old, both on route and behind the scenes.

14 News & Events
Sketching in the Sculpture Gallery, Chatsworth. Image courtesy of Chatsworth House Trust.

Berry’s Jewellers Launches New Omega Showroom In Nottingham Centre

Luxury jewellers, Berry’s, announces the opening of a brand new OMEGA showroom in Nottingham. Situated next to the Berry’s Nottingham store.

Berry’s Jewellers has announced the opening of a new OMEGA showroom in Nottingham. The new store is the only dedicated OMEGA showroom in the Nottinghamshire area.

Nationally known for the impeccable quality of its jewellery and watches, as well as outstanding customer service, Berry’s Jewellers are experts in everything fine watches and diamonds.

Located next to the Berry’s store, the showroom opened in February and is in a prime city centre location that has been home to a variety of businesses over the century.

The store is one of many that Berry’s are planning to open in 2023, with the business looking to expand store openings across the UK, creating jobs for local communities and bringing footfall to city centres.

Following a milestone year celebrating their 125th anniversary, the family-owned independent jewellers is planning a big year in 2023 when it comes to expansion and new store openings, with the new OMEGA boutique being the first to open.

OMEGA have a rich heritage too, being the official timekeeper of the Olympics and many other sports – but what really distinguishes them is their global reputation for success and revolutionary developments. OMEGA products can be found in Berry’s stores across the UK as well as in the new Nottingham boutique.

Simon Walton, Managing Director of Berry’s, commented “We are excited to announce the opening of the new OMEGA showroom in Nottingham, right next to our Berry’s store. The iconic location has a rich heritage just like Berry’s and OMEGA so it is a fitting site for the boutique. We are delighted to expand our stores and bring more footfall to Nottingham – with this being the only OMEGA boutique in the Nottinghamshire area. We are planning a number of store openings in 2023, starting with this one.”

For further details, visit: www.berrysjewellers.co.uk

15 News & Events
Berry's 12 Poultry, Nottingham, NG1 2HW 0115 947 2111 / 0115 941 0666 www.berrysjewellers.co.uk

Malcolm’s Story: “Why I Am Leaving A Gift In My Will”

“Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is extremely important to agricultural workers; the helicopter a welcome sight as it appears like a yellow knight in shining armour flying across the fields to help a farmer in distress. This is why I am leaving them a gift in my Will.”

Lincoln-born Malcolm Haywood comes from a farming family, and over the years he can recall many instances of farmworkers being injured in agricultural accidents and needing the support of LNAA.

He says: “One time, a farmer friend got caught in a potato machine. But the Air Ambulance got there just in time, treated him at the farm and transported him to hospital. It could have been such a different outcome had they not been there.”

Malcolm worked as an aerial crop sprayer operating across the Boston fenlands. His knowledge of the industry spurred him to write a book, entitled

‘Under the Wire’, it is dedicated to the crop spraying operators of yesteryear. Profits from sales have raised over £2,000 for LNAA.

Malcolm says: “Me and my wife want to know our money will make a difference to someone. LNAA is vital to our rural communities, and the work it does means a lot to us because we have been involved in aviation and farming all our lives. What better cause to leave a legacy to, than to something so worthwhile that is on your doorstep.”

“Nearly a third of LNAA work is funded by people who have left a gift in their Will and in the last year alone, donations

of this kind have paid for over 400 lifesaving missions. By remembering Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance in your Will, you will be helping to ensure that they can be there for critically ill and injured people when they are needed most.

To find out more about Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance visit: ambucopter.org.uk/wills

Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
By your side then, now and in the future Learn about our free Will Writing Service at ambucopter.org.uk/will Our first helicopter, 1994 LNAACT REG CHARITY 1017501
News & Events COLLINGHAM DENTAL PRACTICE 01636 893 477 High Street, Collingham, Newark NG23 7LB We know your smile is special! We provide a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments for all the family Talk to our professional team today • Cosmetic Fillings, Crowns and Bridges • • Natural Dentures • • Teeth Whitening • Roseleigh House, Beacon Hill Road, Newark, NG24 1NT T: 01636 703 808 (24 hours) 18 Moorgate, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 6RH T: 01777 701 601 (24 hours) Planning for peace of mind Pre-paid funeral plans reduce financial worry for loved ones *Terms and conditions apply. Ask in the funeral home for details. Your local team can arrange your funeral exactly the way you want it, caring for every detail. For a free information pack contact your local funeral home: Lincolnshire Co-op is a trading name of Lincolnshire Co-operative Limited, Stanley Bett House, 15-23 Tentercroft Street, Lincoln LN5 7DB Reg. No. IP00141R. LC Funeral Plans Limited, Stanley Bett House, 15-23 Tentercroft Street, Lincoln LN5 7DB Reg. No. 14170261 is a subsidiary company of Lincolnshire Co-operative Limited and is an Appointed Representative of Ecclesiastical Planning Services Limited Reg. No. 2644860, registered in England at Benefact House, 2000 Pioneer Avenue, Gloucester Business Park, Brockworth, Gloucester, GL3 4AW, UK, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Firm Reference Number 958152 Grow Your Audience & Spread The Word... Advertise With Made Made magazine spreads the word across the whole of North Notts and beyond. That includes Bassetlaw, Mansfield, Newark, Sherwood, Nottingham and all the places around and inbetween! Our social media spreads the word for you too! Join our community and together lets make Notts the best it can be! We are Made In Notts and we want you to succeed in everything you organise and all you do. Get in touch and see what we can do for you! Call: 01777 712609 • Email: hello@madeinn.co.uk  /madeinnorthnotts  @madeinn_  madeinn_ www.madeinn.co.uk

Events Spring Forward Show

Museum of Timekeeping, Upton Hall

26 Mar, 10am - 4pm

The Museum will be opening its doors again for 2023. We will have horological experts onsite in the watch and clock workshops where people can ask questions about their work and how they make and repair the items. We will also be opening our new exhibition, Early Timekeeping, filled with sundials, hour glasses and water clocks. Many of these objects originate from all over the world, and you will get to see how people told the time before the mechanics of clocks were around. We shall also be opening the doors to our library to the public for the first time for people to take a look at one of the best timekeeping archives in the world!

Paid event, for details please visit: www.museumoftimekeeping.org.uk

Events

Crafted in Clay: Studio Ceramics

Exhibition

Newstead Abbey Ravenshead, Notts

4 Mar - 29 Oct

Crafted in Clay features over 100 ceramics by around 30 potters, including Bernard Leach, Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, Walter Keeler, Richard Batterham, John Ward, Siddig el Nigoumi and Judy Trim.

The interventions around the Abbey set up dialogues within the rooms and provide a new context for the pottery, breaking out of traditional ‘pots on plinths’ museum displays.

newsteadabbey.org.uk/ crafted-in-clay

Dawn Feeney - Nature's Coppersmith

Exhibition at the Gallery on Bridgegate, Retford. 11 Mar - 6 May 2023.

Nottingham jeweller and coppersmith, Dawn Feeney has been working her magic in metal for many years since training in Silversmithing and Jewellery Design in Loughborough. Nature is the recurring theme in her work and a walk in the Nottinghamshire countryside is enough to spark an idea and leave her pockets full of fallen leaves and inspiration for a piece of artwork.

Her exquisitely-worked copper beetles, dragonflies, leaves and flowers are pinned and arranged in beautiful frames, which call to mind Victorian museum display cases, but with a pure white modern look.

After years of practice, creating delicate silver jewellery, Dawn found a love for copper with its beautiful colour and amazing properties. Copper is a soft metal, which allows it to be embossed with many textures that produce beautiful reflective surfaces. Dawn enjoys experimenting with the copper as it can be painted, guilded and patinated by heating, as well as adding other ingredients to the heating process for unique and interesting colours and effects.

This new exhibition of Dawn Feeney’s work at Cath Ray Gallery & Studios in Retford includes her delicate sterling silver jewellery, but focusses on her most recent copper work, some of which have never been exhibited before. This includes a stunning piece of work, inspired by the historic office building of Watson Fothergill in Nottingham (15 George Street, built in 1895). Fothergill is Nottingham’s most famous architect and his distinctive style can be seen

in some of the most important buildings in the city and surrounding Nottinghamshire towns. Visitors to the exhibition on Bridgegate in Retford will also get to see an impressive Watson Fothergill villa at the entrance of the drive up to the gallery, so it is a must for any Fothergill fans!

Gallery-owner, Cath Ray said, “I love Dawn’s work and have always kept an eye on her development as an artist since we studied together many years ago. When she began her experiments in copper I was, quite by chance, the first person to purchase a picture of her framed work – a beautiful stag beetle in a tiny wooden frame for my young son, who had just seen his first big beetle in the wild”. This piece will also feature in the exhibition, but will definitely not be for sale, “My son still loves it, all these years later!”.

This solo exhibition runs from 11th March to the 6th of May but Dawn’s work can sometimes be seen in selected venues across the region including Clumber Park. She will also be taking part in this year’s Open Studios events in May when visitors will be able to meet Dawn and discuss her beautiful and original artwork. During the exhibition there will be an eight week drawing and painting course ‘Art From Nature’, further information available from Cath Ray at the gallery.

www.dawnfeeneyjewellery.co.uk

dawnfeeneyjewellery

cathraygalleryandstudios

Email: raybooks@msn.com

News & Events 18
All imagery courtesy of Dawn Feeney and Cath Ray.

Unseen Treasures of The Portland Collection Opens 25 March 2023

Unseen Treasures of The Portland Collection, at the Harley Foundation, North Nottinghamshire, offers a new, revealing look at this world-class art collection.

The Portland Collection, built up over 400 years by a single aristocratic family, is vast and varied. Exhibitions in its dedicated museum change every three years.

For this display, opening 25th March, visitors will enter a museum filled to the brim with fascinating art and objects, a giant cabinet of curiosities. There will be silver and tapestry, paintings and jewels; art that has come home after a long loan to a prestigious national gallery, and stunning star items that visitors know and love – such as Michelangelo’s ‘Madonna of Silence’ or the pearl earring worn by Charles I at his execution.

A highlight of the display is a Picture Gallery, stacked with Tudor and Jacobean portraits - many of which have never been seen publicly before.

Lisa Gee, Director of The Harley Foundation, explains: “It is said that a

picture paints a thousand words, so what do these portraits tell us? Historic portraits were almost always flattering, filtered images which are like the social media of their day. But behind the gleaming fabrics and jewels were fully rounded individuals. Despite their starched clothing they were as human as we are.”

The Harley Foundation has invited different experts to explore Unseen Treasures and create gallery trails. Pick up a leaflet and have Dr Karen Hearn (Tate, UCL) or Hannah Obee (Wallace Collection, Chatsworth, Harewood House) take you on a journey. You might learn about celebrity in Tutor Britain, the surprising story of a conjurer turned calligrapher who made a self-portrait with microscopic text, or how embroidery could save your life – and earn you an Earldom.

For opening hours and exhibitions visit: www.harleygallery.co.uk

Events

Exhibitions At Bassetlaw Museum

Grove Street, Retford, Notts

Linocut Printing Demonstration

14 Mar, 10.30am - 12.30pm

Find out what lino printing is and what’s involved in making linoprints. Have a go at creating your own lino art. Free. For ages 16+. Drop in session.

Exhibition of Linocuts by Polly

Warren

Now until 18 Mar

Polly Warren’s beautifully crafted linocuts capture views of gardens, nature, places and fond memories.

She says that ‘with an O-Level in Art and no formal art training, drawing the initial design for the lino block can be a struggle, but cutting the block is relaxing, mixing the inks exciting, and printing with her Hawthorn press can be breathtaking and surprising.’

Polly has had her work displayed at the Harley Gallery, Ferens Art Gallery (Hull), Doncaster Art Gallery and Museum and the Ropewalk (Barton). She also had a solo exhibition in the Spotlight Gallery at Newark Town Hall.

'Power Station Coal Trains: The End?'

25 Mar - 20 May 23

Exhibition of photographs by Dafydd Whyles, a master of evocative and atmospheric railway photography. This exhibition looks at how the railways of Bassetlaw and the surrounding area served the collieries and coal fired power stations that were vital to the country's energy security.

Dafydd has been interested in railways for as long as he can remember and he has been working as a signalman since 1997. He shoots mainly with a medium format camera and artfully captures dramatic images that are a world away from the usual record photos.

bassetlawmuseum.org.uk

News & Events
Lady Margaret Stuart, Countess of Nottingham, by Paul van Somer, c.1620. ©The Harley Foundation, Portland Collection.

Earth Hour 2023:

25 Mar, 8:30pm

What is Earth Hour?

Earth Hour reminds us that even small actions can make a big difference. When we make changes in our own lives to reduce our footprint, we inspire those around us to do the same. And together, we are a powerful global movement that governments and businesses can’t ignore.

We all need nature. And nature needs us to stand up for it every day. By 2030, nature and wildlife could be recovering all around us. Our leaders have promised to put nature at the heart of climate action, to secure a safer future for all of us. Now we must make sure they deliver on their promise.

What can we do?

Spend 60 minutes doing something positive for our planet. It's that simple.

Whether it's by picking up trash at a park, cooking dinner with sustainable ingredients, planting a tree, or getting your friends together for an Earth Hour event, anyone, anywhere can join the #BiggestHourForEarth.

Find resources, information and all about Earth Hour at: www.wwf.org.uk/ earth-hour or www.earthhour.org

Share your events with Made!

hello@madeinn.co.uk

01777 712609

Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed here are correct it is advisable to check before the event in case of alterations or planning changes.

National Trust Reopens Mr Straw’s House After Winter Conservation Clean

Following it’s annual winter conservation clean, Mr Straw’s House will reopen to the public from 2 March.

Most National Trust properties inspire thoughts of historic mansions, wealth and grandeur. However, tucked away in a private cul-de-sac in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, you’ll find Mr Straw’s House; the National Trust’s first small domestic property, acquired in 1990.

Mr Straw’s House is a preserved 1920s period home of a grocer's family, virtually unchanged since the Straws moved there in 1923.

A true step back in time, come and discover more about the family who refused to modernise. Visitors can spend time in the display rooms, hear stories of the family and get a glimpse of some of the collection usually hidden away in drawers and cupboards. There is also the opportunity to chat with the Collections & House team about how they care for

over 30,000 treasured possessions and ordinary domestic items that can still be seen exactly where their owners left them.

This year, visitors can explore a hundred years of fashion, peeling back the layers to look at how a turn-of-the-century, middle-class family dressed and furnished their house to impress, and how their sense of style impacted the lives that they led.

The house is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 2 Mar – 27 Oct, 9am – 3pm. Admission is by pre-booked timed self-led tours. Visits are in small groups of four people only, to help with the conservation work at the property. Please book through the Mr Straw’s House website: www.nationaltrust-tickets.org.uk

Mr Straw's House. Image courtesy of Chris Lacey.

www.barlboroughhallschool.com

March/April Inspire 2023, Local Libraries Events Catching A Killer with Stuart Gibbon

Author Event

Retford Library - 9 Mar, 2pm

Join Stuart Gibbon, co-author of the Straightforward Crime Reference Series, as he discusses his latest book, Catching a Killer, a fascinating insight into murder investigation. The talk will include reference to true crime case studies and how criminal investigations, particularly murder, have evolved throughout the years.

Lady Arbella Stuart, The Queen That Never Was Heritage

Worksop Library - 15 Mar, 2pm

Elizabethan historian, David Templeman tells the story of Bess of Hardwick’s granddaughter Arbella, niece to Mary Queen of Scots, who was brought up with the sole intention of being crowned Queen after Elizabeth I. This compelling tale of exploitation, politics and religion follows Arbella from her confined childhood, largely at Hardwick Hall, to a dramatic finale in one of the most romantic escape stories in history!

What Happens When We Read?

Mahsuda Snaith In Conversation

Reading Event

Mansfield Central Library16 Mar, 2pm

Enjoy an afternoon treat of fun and insightful book chat with award-winning author and I Am A Reader writer Mahsuda Snaith, who’ll be posing the big question – what happens when we read?

The Magical Major Oak

Worksop – 20 Mar, 1.30pm

Mansfield – 25 Mar, 10.30am & 1.30pm

Retford – 27 Mar, 10.30am

Newark – 28 Mar, 2pm

Under 5s, accompanying adults FREE Be transported to the legendary world of Maid Marian in this immersive and sensory show from Nottingham Playhouse. Join Marian as she discovers the wonder of nature, the secrets of the forest and the Magical Major Oak! Featuring inspiring storytelling to spark the imagination and a whole band of merry creatures and

characters The Magical Major Oak is an interactive story adventure perfect for children aged 2-4.

Coal, Community And Change Heritage

Mansfield Central Library21 Mar, 2pm

David Amos’ talk is based on the exhibition of the same title, which puts the focus on mining culture in the East Midlands from 1965 to 2015. As well as bringing communities together and gathering the memories of miners and their families for future generations, the project looked at wider aspects of mining culture, including the role of women, social activities, housing, industrial decline and the environment.

Jazz Steps Live At The

Libraries Presents: The Pete Donaldson

Blues Band

Live Jazz Performance

Worksop Library21 Mar, 7.30pm

Stalwarts of the Nottingham music scene since the early

1990s, the Pete Donaldson Blues Band takes its inspiration from classic artists such as ‘The Three Kings’ (BB, Albert and Freddie) as well as more contemporary figures such as Jimmie Vaughan, Ronnie Earl and Bruce Katz.

Exploring Local Newspapers Heritage

Retford Library - 22 Apr, 10am

Join two of our Heritage Librarians for a small group session, where they will demonstrate the range and variety of local newspapers available in Inspire libraries on microfilm and online. The British Newspaper Archive can be accessed for FREE in Inspire libraries, and at Nottinghamshire Archives.

All Events:

Booking in advance is advised for all events. To book and find out further details of all the events listed here and more visit: www.inspireculture.org.uk

Call 01623 677 200

Or pop in to your local library.

21
OPEN WEEK 1ST - 5TH MAY BARLBOROUGH HALL SCHOOL
01246 810511
DISCOVER MORE

ShowTime

It's show time, grab your popcorn, icecreams and treats and enjoy all the fun of the theatre here in Nottinghamshire.

Wizard Of Oz

Newark Palace Theatre, Newark

22 - 24 Mar

For their 88th year, Newark

Amateur Operatic Society follow their recent successes at the Palace Theatre, Cats, Oklahoma! and Singin' In the Rain, with their interpretation of the classic The Wizard of Oz. Originally due to be performed just as the first lockdown was called, the society finally get the chance to follow the yellow brick road. www.palacenewarktickets. com

Opera North - Tosca

Royal Concert Hall

Nottingham

18 Apr

Vasily Petrenko returns with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a programme of heavy-hitters. Sibelius’s Finlandia was so stirring a flag waver for Finnish independence that the ruling Russian authorities continually fought to keep it off concert platforms. Tchaikovsky yielded to no-one as a melodist and his 1878 Violin Concerto – the piece that restored his spirits after the breakdown of his ill-starred marriage – has

The Arts

Events

Vivaldi in Venice

1 Mar Civic Centre, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP.

its soloist soaring through some of his most inventive and persuasive music. The brilliant young Korean violinist Bomsori Kim brings her fearlessly expressive playing to the Royal Concert Hall for the first time. trch.co.uk

Twisted Tails

The Acorn Theatre, Queen Street, Worksop

23 - 27 Apr

The Young Theatre Company presents “Twisted Tails” – a musical double-bill featuring TWO fabulous shows in one!

In Act 1, the Juniors & Nippers present “Oink” – a pig of a tale! In Act 2, the Seniors take you into a dark world of crime in “Porridge” – a musical of mystery, mayhem and breakfast cereal! acorntheatre.org

On Golden Pond Retford Little Theatre, Retford

24 - 31 Mar

A warm and witty American comedy/drama about a married couple who spend their 48th summer together in their holiday home on the banks of Golden Pond. Family relationships, the generation gap between young and old, and the difficulties of the twilight years of a long marriage all combine to illustrate the hilarious, heart-breaking, human moments of which life is made!

www.rlt.org.uk

Peggy For You

Robin Hood Theatre, Averham

25 - 29 Apr

This hilarious comic drama focusses on A day-in-the-life of the most celebrated play agent of her time - Peggy Ramsay. She was one of the most influential behind-thescenes figures in post-war British theatre, who nurtured several generations of British playwrights from the late 1950s to early 1980s. www.rhtc.co.uk

Little Shop Of Horrors

The Palace Theatre, Mansfield

27 - 29 Apr

Award winning HMTC presents this fantastic horror sci fi musical. Maybe you’ve seen the film – a classic! Or maybe you’ve seen the show – but you definitely haven’t seen it done by HMTC. www.mansfieldpalace.co.uk

RMTC Presents 'The Addams Family'

The Majestic Theatre

Retford

27 - 29 Apr

In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams Family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. www.majesticretford.org

Events & Details

Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed within this issue are correct it is always advisable to check before the event in case of booking requirements, cancellations, alterations or planning changes.

www.madeinn.co.uk

Our Speaker is Peter Medhurst. Vivaldi is the one baroque composer, whose music is a direct reflection of the city in which it was composed. Listen to a Vivaldi concerto, hey presto, you are transported directly to the heart of 18th-century Venice. The reasons for this are many - Vivaldi’s passion for colour display the spectacle is his music; the unusual way in which Venice solved its problems with the poor and the homeless; Vivaldi’s health problems, and his eccentricities as a man and a priest. Against the luxurious backdrop of 18th century Venice, and with musical performances, this lecture brings together the amazing world of Vivaldi’s music - music that is as intrinsically Venetian as the canvases of Canaletto.

Great Railway Stations, Evoking The Spirit Of Romance And Adventure

5 Apr

Civic Centre, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP.

Our Speaker is Ian Swankie. If you think of Saint Pancras International or New York at Grand Central station you imagine long romantic journeys? You know they are special places, promising excitement and adventure. But there are dozens of other glorious stations in the UK and abroad. We will take a journey on this lecture around some of the most evocative and splendid stations in the world. We will look not only at the magnificence of the architecture and the brilliant engineering, but will also discover numerous art works within the stations e.g. Claude Monet’s Gare St. Lazard in Paris and William Powell Frith’s Paddington. It may sound a bit of ‘anoraky’ but it isn’t. It is lavish, colourful and fun.

For further details on the Lectures, the holiday in June, the study/special interest days or the Society in general, please contact: Gill on 01909 540506 or Gordon on gordonpmcdougall@ gmail.

As well as these monthly Lectures, Members of our Society enjoy two extra Special Interest days, Newsletters and a national Magazine. The Society also organises a coach holiday and days out to local places of interest.

N.B. If, due to illness/Covid or other issues, like the train strikes, we have to cancel and change a Speaker at the last minute, please find full details on our Web page.

www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries

News & Events

At The Movies!

The latest cinema releases and live screenings of major exhibitions, famous operas and the best theatre at the Savoy Cinema in Worksop.

SCREENINGS

3 Mar – Creed III

Still dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed is thriving in his career and family life. When Damian, a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy resurfaces after serving time in prison, he's eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face-off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damian.

10 Mar – 65

After a catastrophic crash on an unknown planet, pilot Mills quickly discovers he's actually stranded on Earth - 65 million years ago. Now, with only one chance at a rescue, Mills and the only other survivor, Koa, must make their way across an unknown terrain riddled with dangerous prehistoric creatures.

17 Mar – Shazam! Fury Of The Gods

Shazam takes on the villainous Hespera and Kalypso, daughters of the Greek titan Atlas.

24 Mar – Jon Wick: Chapter 4

With the price on his head ever increasing, legendary hit man John Wick takes his fight against the High Table global as he seeks out the most powerful players in the underworld, from New York to Paris to Japan to Berlin.

31 Mar – Super Mario Bros

A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess.

3 Apr – Dungeons And Dragons: Honour Among Thieves

A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a long lost relic, but their charming adventure goes dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.

Visit www.savoyworksop.co.uk for full listings of your most awaited movies and live screenings not to miss.
All imagery courtesy of Savoy Cinema.

Introducing... Simpley Natural

Sherwood Forest Art & Craft Centre, Edwinstowe, Mansfield. NG21 9RN www.simpleynatural.co.uk

Here at Simpley Natural we like to keep things, well, simple!

We are set in the very heart of Sherwood Forest, where we make and sell our bath and body products from our workshop. These range from bath bombs and soaps to moisture creams, face scrubs and reed diffusers.

Our products are inspired by our beautiful surroundings and our ongoing passion to protect and preserve our beautiful planet.

Our ever-popular Nettle range of soap, solid shampoo and oil is made using hand-picked nettles from Sherwood Forest itself.

We also stock a wide range of Himalayan salt products including lamps and inhalers as well as a sustainable range of self-care products including toothbrushes, cotton buds, konjac sponges and more.

We hold bath bomb making workshops throughout the year and we like to keep things fresh with new seasonal product releases such as our ‘All you need is love’ Valentines range.

Mother'sDayGifts

19 March 2023

Gorgeous gifts for Mother's Day from The National Trust Shop...

7. 1. 2. 4. 6. 5. 3. 1. Glass bead and brass bracelet, green, £15 2. Glass bead and brass earrings, green, £20 3. National Trust, Felt hanging Harper the Hare, £8 4. Mini plantable notecards, £7.50 5. Moshulu x National Trust, Fulmar ballerina slipper Oyster Grey, £42 6. National Trust Kids BYO Nest Box Kit, £19.99 7. National Trust books: Grow, £12.99 8. National Trust, Flower scene wall ornament, £10. All available from The National Trust shop. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 8.
24
Two luxury lodges and a unique narrowboat, each with its own hot tub Onsite sauna cabin and barbecue cabin Woodland spa experience with massage yurt Located in a small woodland adjacent to the Chesterfield Canal. A WATERSIDE WOODLAND ESCAPE Adults only Luxury Lodge Breaks for Two Hawthorn Hideaway, Brickyard Lane, Walkeringham Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN10 4LZ 07515 860481 Enquiries@hawthornhideaway.com www.hawthornhideaway.com Café & shop open 7 days 10am - 3pm open until 5pm from 27 March Idle Valley Nature Reserve, Retford Registered charity number 224168 Idle Valley Nature Reserve Great North Road, Retford DN22 8RQ nottinghamshirewildlife.org/idle-valley

The Next STEP For Low Carbon Energy

The future of abundant low-carbon energy without the need for fossil fuels has taken a STEP forward.

West Burton, North Nottinghamshire, was selected as the home of the ambitious STEP fusion energy programme, underpinning an industry expected to be worth billions to the UK economy.

The Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) plant will be designed and constructed to demonstrate the ability to put net electricity on the grid. It will also pave the way to enable future commercial fusion energy plants to be commissioned and constructed.

Fusion energy has great potential to deliver safe, sustainable, low carbon energy for generations to come. It is based on the same processes that power the sun and stars.

The Government-backed STEP programme will create thousands of highly skilled jobs during construction and operations, and attract other high-tech industries to the region, furthering the development of science and technology capabilities nationally.

The ambitious programme will also commit immediately to the development of apprenticeship training centres in Nottinghamshire, building on the success of the UK Atomic Energy Authority’s (UKAEA) Oxfordshire Advanced Skills centre in Culham, which develops around 180 apprentices from 25 employers every year.

Business & Energy Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg said: “Fusion offers unparalleled potential for clean power production, prom-

ising a future of inexhaustible energy that could unshackle us from fossil fuels and make us truly self-sufficient and secure.

“Over the decades we have established ourselves as pioneers in fusion science and I am delighted to announce an important step in that mission, replacing the West Burton coal-fired power station with a beacon of bountiful green energy. The plant will be the first of its kind, proving the commercial viability of fusion energy to the world.

“It could be an industry worth billions of pounds to the UK economy, positioning the UK to design, manufacture and export the first fleet of fusion plants, and putting us at the vanguard of a future market.”

Professor Ian Chapman, UKAEA Chief Executive, said: “Selecting the location of the STEP prototype plant is a huge, visible moment in the challenging and long-term endeavour of bringing fusion energy to the grid. West Burton is a natural fit for the STEP programme with a rich industrial heritage now being developed and repurposed for a low carbon future. It really is ‘from fossil fuels to fusion’.

“We look forward to working with people in the region to develop our ambitious plans and realising broader social and economic benefits.”

The West Burton site, which is home to a coal-fired power station owned by EDF, was selected following a rigorous assessment process over almost two years. Fifteen locations were

26
Low Carbon Energy
West Burton Power Station.
Fusion promises to be a safe, low carbon and sustainable part of the world’s energy supply with potential to help sustain net zero in the future.

long-listed following an open call for sites in December 2020 and this was reduced to five after assessments in October 2021. The second round of assessments concluded in the spring with UKAEA making its final recommendations to the Secretary of State in May 2022.

Fusion has the potential to provide a near-limitless future source of low carbon energy, complementing other sustainable sources like wind and solar. When a mix of two forms of hydrogen are heated to extreme temperatures – 10 times hotter than the core of the sun – they fuse together to create helium and release huge amounts of energy.

The energy created from fusion can be used to generate electricity in the same way as existing power stations. Fusion is many million times more efficient, per kilogram, than burning coal, oil or gas. The raw materials needed to provide the fuel for fusion are readily available in nature. However, there remains a number of significant technical hurdles to overcome to realise fusion, and the STEP programme aims to address these.

STEP is expected to pave the way to the commercialisation of fusion and the potential development of a fleet of future plants around the world. UKAEA, which carries out fusion energy research on behalf of the UK Government, is targeting first operations in the early 2040s.

The other sites shortlisted to host STEP were Ardeer, North Ayrshire; Moorside, Cumbria; Goole, East Yorkshire; and Severn Edge, Gloucestershire.

Courtesy of the UKAEA.

For further details, updates and news please visit: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-atomic-energyauthority www.gov.uk/government/news/

Update...

Recently, the Science Minister George Freeman visited West Burton Power Station to announce the creation of a new delivery body for the UK’s fusion programme, named UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, in addition to the creation of a new STEP Skills Centre that will be based at West Burton.

Fusion energy has the potential to transform our world, by delivering near limitless, safe and low-carbon energy across the globe for generations to come. It also represents a burgeoning industry in which the UK is already a world-leader, as demonstrated by the record-setting results from experiments conducted at the UK’s Joint European Torus (JET) facility last year, with the potential to not only power the world but deliver vast economic growth across the country.

Councillor James Naish, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, welcomed the announcement and said; “The construction of a prototype fusion energy plan will require significant investment over the next two decades, and we are delighted that the initial stepsincluding the appointment of the first three local jobs - are happening quickly and efficiently.

“I am especially excited by the broader benefits of this project. In addition to billions of pounds being spent on the project itself, we envisage millions being pumped into towns and villages across Bassetlaw, through both direct and indirect investment. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Retford, Tuxford and other nearby settlements to see improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and thousands of new skilled jobs - all of which will raise living standards and transform our area.

“The announcement about a new training hub on the West Burton site is also warmly welcomed. The creation of high-quality apprenticeships for people of all ages is a corporate priority for the Council, and we are looking forward to working with the UKAEA and its partners to create successful training programmes for current and future Bassetlaw residents.”

On the visit to Bassetlaw to see the future site of the UK’s first prototype fusion energy plant at West Burton, the Science Minister urged energy companies and investors to recognise the vast potential fusion energy could have for both the UK and the wider world.

Science and Innovation Minister George Freeman said: “Fusion energy now has the potential to transform our world for the better by harnessing the same process powering the sun to provide cheap, abundant, low-carbon energy across the world.

“The UK is the world-leader in fusion science and technology, and now we are moving to turn fusion from cutting edge science into a billion-pound clean energy industry to create thousands of UK jobs across the UK, grow exports and drive regeneration of this former coalfield site through a fusion innovation cluster in Nottinghamshire.

“That’s why I’m delighted to announce the creation of Industrial Fusion Solutions as the vehicle for industrial development and deployment of this technology as a new clean energy source in the coming decades.”

27 Low Carbon Energy
All images on these pages courtesy of UKAEA. ukaea.uk Proposed site layout at West Burton.
STEP Vessel side view - illustration.

A Wild Year Ahead At Idle Valley Nature Reserve

A month by month guide to the reserve's wild highlights.

Whilst the wildlife interest on the reserve during January and February is focussed on the wintering ducks such as gadwall, pochard, tufted and wigeon and the majestic swans, as winter segues into spring the focus shifts toward the first migrants as the begin to arrive.

Amongst the earliest are little ringed plover, sandmartin, garganey and chiffchaff. These can be seen alongside the wintering species that still linger including fieldfare and redwing.

Early nesters include the striking grey heron and its always worth looking out for their large nests suspended in trees and mature hawthorns. The location of nests is often given away by the noise as the adults greet each other with bill clapping and harsh calls.

As April arrives, the build up of summer migrants continues with willow warbler, grasshopper warbler and reed warbler joining common tern, yellow wagtail and wheatear. The middle of April is usually good time to watch out for little gull and arctic terns passing through.

As well as enjoying the building chorus of warblers marking their territories and seeking mates, listen out for the classic and evocative spring call of the cuckoo. Another seasonal delight is displaying great crested grebes. The grebes’ courtship display involves a number of stages, with the initial meeting on the water, then proceeding to shake their heads and dip their necks. The ritual culminates in what is known as the 'weed dance' where both male and female dive beneath the surface to collect

weed in their beaks before rushing towards each other, low above the water's surface before rising up to present the weedy offerings face to face.

With many species travelling hundreds, if not thousands, of miles on migration to their breeding grounds, May usually marks the peak of the spring passage of birds and presents a great opportunity to spot rare and unusual arrivals turning up - even if sometimes only briefly.

May is also a good month to see wading birds that are migrating north to breeding grounds further north in the British Isles and up towards the Arctic. Good places to look are the reserve’s shallower water bodies as well as the muddy margins of deeper lakes and lagoons –as well as the edges of shingle islands.

With our resident breeding birds joined by so many summer visitors, May also presents the very best time to take in the amazing sound of the dawn chorus. Species to listen out for include garden warbler, black cap, willow warbler, chiffchaff, song thrush, blackbird and ‘purring’ turtle doves – with Idle Valley Nature Reserve being one of its last footholds in the county.

Whilst the dawn chorus is undoubtedly the soundtrack to the season, one of the most spectacular sights on offer is large flocks of hirundines - swallow, sand martin and house martin - and swifts hunting for insects over the reserve’s many water bodies. The colony of black-headed gulls on Bellmoor Lake, which can be seen from the comfort of the nature centre café, is also a highlight of the month.

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Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. From top: Bewick's and Whooper swans - Mike Vickers, Large red damselfly - Scott Tilley, Grebe display Idle Valley - Mike Vickers, Green sandpiper - Mike Vickers.

By June, bird breeding is well underway for most bird species – with breeding often timed to coincide with the largest abundance of insect food – so vital for rearing chicks. The month is therefore a good time to look out for insects including butterflies brown argus, common blue, small copper, orange tip, green-veined white. Dragonfly and damselflies including black-tailed skimmer, four-spot chaser, banded demoiselle and large red damselfly also add a welcome splash of colour.

The abundance of invertebrates adds interest during July when bird watching opportunities tend to be fewer but wildlife watchers can sometimes be rewarded with the arrival of small numbers of wading birds – choosing the Idle Valley as a welcome refuelling stop whilst on their long southerly migration. The month can also be a good time to spot family groups of stoats playing and foraging.

The key month for passage waders is August and species to look out for include greenshank, green sandpiper, little stint, dunlin and whimbrel. These are moving south from their breeding grounds in the north of the British Isles and around the Arctic and their arrival here in Notts is an early reminder that the summer only has a few short weeks left to play out.

September sees the autumn migration fully underway – presenting a second opportunity to spot rarities and surprise arrivals. Birds to look out for include redstart, whinchat and spotted flycatcher.

Autumn migration continues through October and the arrival of the first of the wintering thrushes - fieldfare, redwing, song thrush and blackbird – from northern Europe. Back in 2009 a Steppe grey shrike, a vagrant from southern central Russia and Asia was located at Blaco. This was a first for the county and illustrates just how exciting a time this can be for birdwatchers. October also sees the return of common duck species along with pinkfooted geese - regular passage migrants and

uncommon winter visitor to the reserve and wider valley.

By November, numbers of wild swans in areas such as Clayworth Common will have built up and Whooper swans may now be seen mingling amongst flocks of native mute swans. If you take the time to look carefully at the flocks, you might also pick out the odd Bewick swan – sadly an uncommon and declining winter visitor. This can also be a great time to see bittern, a relative of the grey heron. Bittern are a scarce winter visitor, but those that arrive will usually remain elusive – well camouflaged in their preferred reedbed habitat.

As another wildlife year draws to a close, numbers of wildfowl continue to increase. It is always worth patiently scanning through the common species (see January and February) in order to see if there are scarcer birds present such as pintail, smew and black-necked grebe. Listen for over-wintering water rails ‘squealing’ from reedbeds and dense vegetation along watercourses.

A Warm Welcome

A great place to start any visit to Idle Valley Nature Reserve is the welcoming centre at the southern end of the site, off North Road. The bright and airy café offers a range of savoury snacks and lunch options as well as a great selection of cakes and sweet treats. Visitors can also browse our well-stocked shop, which offers everything from wildlife themed gifts and books to nest boxes and food for wild birds. Whilst in the centre you can also check the information screen for the latest bird sightings and download or pick up a map of the reserve.

Extended hours – From March 27th the café and centre facilities will be open between 10am and 5pm each day.

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust Tel: 0115 958 8242 E-mail: info@nottswt.co.uk www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org

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From top: Sand martins - John Smith, Chiffchaff - Mike Vickers, Common blue butterfly - Sean Browne, Redwing amongst berries - Mike Vickers, Grey heron nest - Kevin Gray.

Canals Are Good For You

Canals can lift your spirits in many ways, here Rod Auton tells us how.

The Canal & River Trust owns the Chesterfield Canal that runs through Retford. In 2018, it rebranded itself as a wellbeing charity. There were several reasons for this, but it was principally because of the increasing public awareness of the importance of mental health.

In our increasingly hectic world, it is vitally important to have a place where you can slow down, relax and breathe clean, fresh air. For increasing numbers of people, our canals offer this space.

Covid and lockdowns made this even more critical. Many people, especially those without gardens, had to find a place where they could go to spend their precious hour each day away from their home. Remember that this had to be somewhere to which you could walk or cycle, non-essential driving was not allowed.

The canal is within a twenty-minute walk of most parts of the towns along its length. In the last couple of years, I have spoken to dozens of residents who discovered that using the towpath is both delightful and calming. I’m very happy to say that very many have continued to use this wonderful, free facility.

You might dismiss this as the overstated gushing of a Chesterfield Canal zealot, but the benefits of spending time with other people in an outdoor environment have been officially recognised by the medical profession. There is now a Green Social Prescribing programme.

This means that, instead of giving you some mind-altering pills, your doctor may advise and help you to get outside in structured programmes.

Professor Des Breen, Medical Director for the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Integrated Care System, said: “Medicine is not always the best way to improve mental and physical health –

green social prescribing supports people to engage in naturebased activities, connecting with the world around them, support groups and members of their community and has been shown to help people with a range of mental and physical health concerns.”

Cathy Slater, Head of Development at the Sheffield Wildlife Trust, said: “Spending time outside in nature is good for all of us and we’re delighted that more people will access activities to connect them to nature and help improve their health and wellbeing through green social prescribing.”

For the last six years, the Chesterfield Canal Trust has used its work boat, Python, to help the Canal & River Trust keep the canal safe and looking good for towpath users and boaters. Python is a venerable soul that was built in 1929. It was lovingly restored and refurbished by volunteers from the Trust and is the ideal vessel for this type of work.

Jobs undertaken have included litter picking, cutting back overhanging vegetation, tidying up the sides of locks that had become overgrown, clearing bywashes and pulling objects out of the canal.

Python is now part of a Green Social Prescribing programme. Many people have come along, often very apprehensively, to join in a day’s work. They very quickly find that good company, physical work and the huge satisfaction at the end of a day spent improving the environment for others to enjoy has lifted their spirits immeasurably.

Python boat manager, Dave Warsop, said: “We love the fantastic variety of people who volunteer to come and help on Python. They are of all ages, races and genders. Some are already very familiar with the canal; others are seeing it for the first time. The common factor is that invariably they leave tired but happy, full of tea and cake and promising to return.”

30 Chesterfield Canal Trust

If you would like to join in, whether or not you have been referred by your GP, keep an eye on our website for the next bunch of dates to appear. Python was out for over 60 days last year, so you should have plenty of choice.

The idea of the canal being a place where anyone can go to walk, cycle, fish, go boating or get involved in paddlesports is comparatively new.

When the canal was built, it was very strictly a commercial waterway for carrying goods. The general public was not allowed to use the towpaths, which were the preserve of horses towing the boats. Neither the boatmen nor the canal’s owners wanted any obstruction or occurrence that might slow down the boats.

The hedges were there to keep people and animals out in exactly the same way as we nowadays see palisade fencing alongside railway tracks.

We have a legal deed from 1897 whereby the Derbyshire Chemical Company paid the canal owners one shilling per year for the right to have a gate from the towpath onto their works site in Killamarsh. Amazingly this was to be paid each year on the 25th of Decembersomeone had an interesting Christmas!

The 1771 Act of Parliament that permitted the canal to be built has some interesting sections. For example, it states “That if any Person or Persons shall wilfully, maliciously, and to the Prejudice of the said Navigation, break, throw down, damage, or destroy any Banks, or other Works …. such Persons shall be guilty of Felony …. and the Court …. shall, and hereby have the Power and Authority to transfer such Felon for the Space of Seven Years to some of His Majesty’s Colonies in America.” I wonder how today’s vandals might fancy being sent to Florida for seven years!

Further on comes this section: “And it be further enacted by the Authority aforesaid, That if any Person or Persons shall wilfully throw any Ballast, Gravel, Stones, or Rubbish, into any Part of the said Cut or Canal …. every such Person shall, for every such Offence, forfeit a Sum not exceeding Five Pounds.”

£5 in 1771 is equivalent to over £1,000 today – food for thought.

Finally, you may not be familiar with the word gongoozler. This means a person who enjoys watching boats and activities on canals. What finer hobby could be had?

Rod is the Publicity Officer for the Chesterfield Canal Trust which is campaigning to complete the restoration of the canal by its 250th Anniversary in 2027.

For further information go to www.chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk. All imagery courtesy of The Chesterfield Canal Trust (various photographers).

Page opposite: Walkers at Feeder Lock by Diane Watson. This page from top: Above left: 1771 Act of Parliament and extract. Above: Rowing boat at Retford c. 1910 (Bassetlaw Museum). Walkers at Hollingwood Lock. A tranquil scene at Hollingwood Hub. Python at Kiveton.

Rolex

Authorised Service Centre in Sheffield

Owners of Rolex watches can now visit a retailer with an Authorised Service Centre on site, H L Brown in Barker’s Pool, Sheffield.

H L Brown

H L Brown is delighted to announce the opening of the new Rolex Authorised Service Centre.

Rolex watches can now receive the best possible servicing at H L Brown in Sheffield as the workshop, fitted-out and equipped to Rolex specifications, received a Rolex Authorised Service Centre status in January this year.

The Rolex Authorised Service Centre status carries a high degree of responsibility. The workshops operated by Rolex World Service fulfil the mission of ensuring the exceptional durability and reliability of Rolex watches and providing highquality service to the brand’s customers.

Rolex World Service workshops offer different types of servicing operations. The new H L Brown Authorised Service Centre in Sheffield offers a complete service for Rolex watches.

A full service means that your watch is carefully dismantled and each component is examined. The components are ultrasonically cleaned, and those that no longer meet requirements are replaced. Control and precision tests are undertaken before the Rolex watch is returned to its owner.

In-house watchmaker, Matthew Ardron, will assist customers and attend to all individual requirements, helping to preserve Rolex watches excellent technical performance and pristine appearance.

The Rolex customers visiting the new H L Brown workshop can be assured that their watches are in safe hands, as Matthew has many years of experience and training. He started working with H L Brown in 2020, spending the first year at the British School of Watchmaking, gaining the institution’s 1,800-hour course certificate. Matthew then gained further experience in day-to-day watch servicing and was trained by Rolex in-house on various courses, gaining accreditation to service Rolex watches in July 2021.

When servicing your Rolex watch, your watch benefits from a two-year international service guarantee covering the parts and labour.

There is no limit on how long a Rolex watch can keep working and be handed down from one generation to the next, living several lives. Using a Rolex Authorised Service Centre is just one of the ways to keep Rolex watches in perfect condition.

For further details, opening times and enquiries please visit: www.hl-brown.co.uk/stores/h-l-brown-sheffield

Call: 0114 478 7417

H.L. Brown

Sheffield 2 Barker's Pool Sheffield, S1 1LZ 0114 272 4388

www.hl-brown.co.uk

H L Brown
Stay Sharp. Let us manage your creative visual communications. Graphics, Identity, Video & Photography. CREATIVITY Begins Here www.createinn.com hello@createinn.com 01777 712610 Retford Enterprise Centre Randall Way, Retford Notts, DN22 7GR

IN FOCUS

Edwinstowe

Nestled within the heart of Sherwood lies the wonderful, quaint, busy village of Edwinstowe.

Steeped in history and legend, Edwinstowe has so much more to offer than just stories of Robin Hood and his merry men. From shopping and eating out, to pampering and perusing, this village has it all.

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EDWINSTOWE

Let’s start with the local attractions. Edwinstowe is ideal for those interested in the history of the area as well those looking for some wonderful outdoor space to enjoy. The famous Sherwood Forest sits close to the village’s high street. Slightly further out there’s Sherwood Pines, a must for cycling routes as well as home to Go Ape – for the adventurous. For a calmer atmosphere Rufford Park and Clumber Park are waiting to be explored just up the road.

Walking and cycling are easily the best ways to explore this area. The wonderful forest walking and cycling routes blend in seamlessly with the plethora of shops, cafes and places to treat yourself or rest and soak up a little bit of history and Sherwood’s legends along the way.

Perhaps you could even book a pony trek from the Sherwood Forest Trekking Centre as part of your day out.

Shopping

From the heart of Sherwood Forest to all the way along the high street and surrounding Edwinstowe there are plenty of opportunities for retail therapy. The Sherwood Forest Craft Centre is a great place to start. Shops include, Locke’s Spirits, Simpley Natural, Sherwood Candle, Stone Treasures, The Fabric Bug and The Forest Archer to name but a few. You’ll also find artists here, information and history to discover and opportunities for refreshments too.

Heading down to the high street there are many more, including gift shops, traditional sweet shops as well as Benham’s (model train shop), Robin’s Den for giftware and Away With The Fairies, where you can find all manner of magical ethically sourced items. There are some lovely fashion shops and boutiques such as Atelier 12, where you can find handmade sustainable fashion for women. For your home, Acorn Interiors has a lovely range of interior and homeware.

As well as these treasures there’s also very useful convenience shops, butchers such as Callieu and Goffs, fruit and veg shops and a news agent and post office too, and dotted between you’ll find independent beauty salons and hairdressers.

Let’s not forget Deco By design – The Calvie Gallery, open Weds to Sat, to satisfy the arts and antiques hunters out there.

In Focus

Eating Out & Drinks

When it comes to food and drinks Edwinstowe does not disappoint. Here you can find everything from takeaways and pubs, to restaurants and cafes, where you can spend a luxurious day with a long afternoon tea.

Options seem endless, you can choose from The Village Kitchen on Mansfield Road, host to some gorgeous homemade food, loose leaf teas and great coffee. A range of afternoon teas to choose from Cream Tea, Savoury Tea and a zesty Citrus Tea.

Fables, the Old Library, caters for all, no booking necessarysimply walk in. With space for both inside and outside dining. There is a large menu and lovely afternoon teas not to mention cakes to order!

As you peruse the town and further afield if you’re in need of refreshment, there’s The Café in Sherwood Forest, Major Brew in the Sherwood Forest Craft Centre, also - Sherwood Pines Café (especially you’re out on your bike.)

For a more evening/restaurant feel there’s Launay’s Restaurant for fine dining, where gourmet evenings are available as well as daytime lunches and a takeaway.

For something a little bit different try Smoke & Ice, in the Old Methodist Church on the High Street. A very modern take on food, ordering is done on the phone/online for a variety of barbeque and Asian dishes.

For more traditional meals, pub grub and Sunday roasts a few names to include would be the Royal Oak, The Black Swan and The Robin Hood.

Finally, not forgetting our faithful friends. Dog owners can find Ruby and Sophia’s Dog Bakery (Sherwood Forest Corner). This wonderful little speciality bakery holds parties for your pet dogs, as well as afternoon teas and various events and workshops. And at the Church Farm Business Centre there is a dog grooming service onsite among the other businesses –Precious Poochies, perfect for a pampering day for your dog, while you spend your day out!

See Made July/August 22. Issue 23 online for a full feature on Edwinstowe. Read it for free here: www.madeinn.co.uk/read-online

Visit For Mother's Day!

Edwinstowe is the perfect spot for Mother's Day. For the perfect day out start with little retail therapy, perhaps some pampering or a refreshing walk and what better way to spend the afternoon than with a lovely afternoon tea at one of the village's cafés.

SOUTHWELL, OLLERTON, EDWINSTOWE & NEWARK SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL HIGH STREET SHOP LOCAL Lower Product Miles... ...Miles Better Encourage less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.

Exploring Edwinstowe

Take it easy in Edwinstowe with this lovely walk from travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

This easy walk explores the ancient and mythical woodland tacks of Sherwood Forest and the historical village of Edwinstowe.

Known virtually globally; this forest is undoubtedly a national treasure and is famously associated with the world’s most notorious and legendary outlaw, Robin Hood. Sherwood Forest was once a Royal hunting ground which provided entertainment for Kings and nobility from across Europe.

The forest has been settlement since the last Ice age, and has seen countless changes through time, with many a tale to be told by the hundreds of giant oak trees which scatter the forest. The name ‘Sherwood’ was first chronicled in 958AD and was known as Sciryuda, which means ‘woodland belonging to the shire’, and when the Doomsday book was compiled in around 1085 to 1086, the forest most probably covered over a quarter of Nottinghamshire in woodland and shrubland (heath).

Now a National Nature Reserve, and a (SSSI) Site of Special Scientific Interest, it boasts around 1,000 magnificent oak trees. The forest attracts visitors from all over the world, and the iconic Major Oak is most definitely worth visiting, let your imagination run wild in this exceptional forest!

The Major Oak has been known by many different names over the centuries, including the Queen Oak, Robin Hood’s Oak, and during the mid-1800’s it was known as the Cockpen Tree, owing to the fact that Cockrell fighting took place around the tree. In the year 1790 a famous archaeologist called Major Hayman Rooke, referred to, and documented the giant tree in a publication about the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest, hence its current name The Major Oak.

According to folklore, the tree was said to be the hiding place of Robin Hood and his band of merrymen. Around 1000 years old, its massive branches are now supported by scaffolding and is fenced off for viewing. (I remember my childhood days, running around the tree, and hiding in the hollow, I’m so glad I have that lovely memory of such a treasured tree).

Many events, demonstrations and exhibitions are held in the forest throughout the year, the Sherwood Robin Hood Festival, which is normally held during the summer, is one of the best around. It was established in 1954 and the highlight of events for the county of Nottinghamshire. This Autumn and coming winter are set to see many seasonal activities, such as the Spooky Halloween Trail, and Have-a-go- Archery.

The village of Edwinstowe is a vibrant and eclectic village, which is oozing with history, and has so many lovely places to eat, drink and stay! The wonderful medieval church of St. Mary attracts many visitors too, as it is believed to be the church where the legendary Robin Hood and Maid Marian were betrothed. It is just a short distance from the main visitor centre at Sherwood Forest, just a five-minute walk, and is definitely worth a visit. It dates back to around 1175 and sits beautifully overlooking the heart of the village.

The Arts and Craft centre is also a unique attraction, situated in the converted coach house buildings of the former Edwinstowe Hall, it has a fabulous variety of unusual arts and crafts exhibited by local artists, you can often see the craftsmen at work, and there’s a lovely little café too, where you can enjoy a delicious cream tea, or tasty snack after your day of adventure. It’s all under cover so can be enjoyed whatever the weather!

Lace those boots up and enjoy a fun filled day of discovery!

Happy Rambling, Sally.

38 Sally Outram

Directions

1. From the new car park off the B6034, start by facing the main entrance to the Sherwood Forest Visitor centre –NG219RN. Carefully cross the road, over to Forest Corner. Walk along the path, passing the Arts and Crafts centre on your left. To your right, you will see the visitor centre. Here, cross over the road and follow the path which runs by the right of the visitor centre, keeping the children’s play area to your left. Follow the winding path (signposted to the Major Oak) for approximately ½ mile, until you reach the beautiful legendary tree, supported by scaffolding, and fenced off. (Take a moment to admire this wonderful, historic, and iconic tree).

2. Continue to the intersection of paths where the public bridleway is signposted and turn left and walk straight along this pretty woodland path for approximately ¼ mile.

3. Once you reach the green Military area sign, the main path bears to the left, do not follow that path, instead continue to walk straight ahead.

4. Pass the metal bar gate and continue along until you reach a crossroads of paths. Continue straight over, it’s here the path becomes a wide fenced green track with open fields of ferns, heathers, and bracken. This area is known as Budby South Forest, one of the largest and most historic heathlands in the Midlands, and a bird lovers paradise! Continue along until reach another gate. On reaching the gate, turn left here onto an old rolling lane for approximately 1 mile.

5. Here we come to a key intersection of paths, just before the plantation begins, turn left following the sign to the ‘Centre Tree’.

6. Keep the row of conifer trees on your right and the open Budby Forest to your left. The track then becomes

two parallel paths, (a gravel cycle path and grass track), either can be used. Continue along until you reach the ‘Centre Tree’.

7. Once you reach the huge oak tree, the two paths meet and continue along. At this point, (near the bench) do not go straight on, instead take a turn left and continue straight along the main track, ignoring paths on either side until you reach the depths of the forest for about ¾ of a mile.

8. Passing the metal bar gate on the right, you will meet the signposted bridleway coming from the left. Do not take the path straight ahead which is signposted to the Major Oak, instead veer to your right onto a main track, which is worn, hollowed and very bumpy!

9. Continue along the bumpy track until you reach another large intersection of paths. At this point continue straight ahead, following the sign to the ‘Visitor Centre’. You will see an open field and buildings to your right.

10. Follow the wide sandy track to the field by Edwinstowe cricket ground. You will see the Arts and Craft centre to the right. (A short detour here provides refreshments and craft shops). Turn left here back to the Sherwood Forest visitor centre where there are further refreshments, gift shops and toilets.

11. At this point, you have the option to venture into Edwinstowe Village, walking back towards the car park, turn right onto Church Street. After a short distance you will see St. Marys church, continue along into the village centre, where you can explore at your leisure, visit some of the quaint shops or enjoy a tasty pint, in one of the many bars, before retracing your steps back to the car park.

DID YOU KNOW?

During the two world wars, parts of Sherwood Forest were commandeered for military camps and training of soldiers.

The basics

Distance: 5.5 miles/8.8 km

Severity: Easy.

Gradient: Ascent gradual (85m).

Approx time: 2½ – 3 hours

Stiles: None

Maps: OS Explorer 270 Sherwood Forest.

Path info: Forest, woodland, tracks, paths, and village footpaths.

Start Point: Sherwood Forest visitor centre car park (Daily charges apply)

Parking: As above.

Dog Friendly: yes; but need to be on a lead around the Sherwood Forest visitor centre, car park and village.

Public Toilets: Sherwood Forest visitor centre and Edwinstowe.

Refreshments: Sherwood Forest visitor centre, Edwinstowe craft centre and Edwinstowe village – plenty of lovely places to choose from.

Outram
Sally

In The Frame

The Framework Knitters Museum in Ruddington is a unique surviving example of a 19th century framework knitters’ yard. Made took a trip over to find out more about this fascinating living history museum.

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Often cited as a ‘hidden gem’, the Framework Knitters Museum offers a delightful way to discover how framework knitters and their families lived and worked in Victorian times, as well as bringing 400 years of rich local heritage to life.

It is being restored to give visitors the opportunity to experience the craft, it’s role in the Industrial Revolution, and even explains how framework knitting gave birth to Nottingham’s famous lace industry.

Visitors to the museum can expect an authentic and evocative trip through history and craft. The museum itself is laid out as a quadrangle of 19th century buildings around a lovely cottage garden (which was originally a vegetable patch for the workers), with frame shops, cottages and utility outhouses to explore. The cottages offer a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the time that they were occupied, featuring household items in use at the time. Three generations of the same family lived here and the museum still has some of their belongings. The frame shops feature an array of knitting machines dating from 1750. These give the visitor an immersive experience and a real understanding of how life and this craft were intertwined as a livelihood for so many in the area.

As we walked around the museum, there’s no doubt that the atmosphere is evocative and the surroundings are quite charming, but what really elevates the museum are the excellent guides and the team of staff and volunteers, who not only know their history inside out, but clearly are passionate about keeping this rich heritage alive. From one building to another, we were able to see how people made a living through the craft, just how life was at the time, and the importance of framework knitting.

The Stocking frame was invented when Queen Elizabeth l was on the throne. Initially it was used to make stockings or hose, but all types of knitwear were made. All the family was involved. Children started work at the age of six as winders or seamers. The boys were taught to use the frames from about the age of 12. We can discover just how hard life was for the men who worked the frames for 14-hour days but were treated so badly that they were some of the poorest workers in the country. There was a saying in Victorian times, “as poor as a stockinger”. It is no wonder that they rose up against the manufacturers who reduced their wages as part of the Luddite Rebellions. It is a story of hardship but also inventiveness that led to Nottingham becoming the lace centre of the world.

As you wander around and discover more about the history and the industry at the time, you will have chance to see original knitting frames, beautifully preserved, and demonstrated by volunteers who are learning to use them here. There is also a fascinating collection of hosiery and related items, including a pair of Queen Victoria’s stockings to view.

We asked the Museum Manager, Sarah Godfrey for some top tips on things to look out for when visiting.

“Something that is always popular is the chance to knit your own souvenir on a vintage Griswold circular knitting machine. Visitors have a lot of fun with that and have something unique to bring home.

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“It’s really magical and we have worked hard to keep the entire experience as authentic as possible. Framework knitting is an endangered craft and we just want to cherish it and share its story with as many people as we can.”

“Our knitting machines are 200 years old and you can see them still working perfectly in the frame shop and they really are a sight to behold.”

“And of course, you can really get a feel for what life was like back then and how the framework knitters worked. It’s really magical and we have worked hard to keep the entire experience as authentic as possible. Framework knitting is an endangered craft and we just want to cherish it and share its story with as many people as we can.”

After a wonderful hour and a half immersing ourselves in this intricate craft and transporting ourselves back in time, we enjoyed a spot of shopping in the gift shop and a coffee and cake in the museum’s brand-new café, which alongside the shop and community garden, forms part of the museum’s recreational area - Parker’s Yard.

The café is the result of funding recently received through the Heritage Fund and FCC Communities Foundation along with core funding from the Friends of the Museum and has allowed the museum to offer a lovely space for people to relax and reflect on the surroundings. The café, alongside the newly refurbished shop front and reception area, have really given the museum a new lease of life, and the café has established itself as a meeting point in its own right, attracting people from outside the museum who just fancy somewhere different and welcoming for refreshments.

On the new café, Sarah, said: “Our recent building project, Parker’s Yard, has allowed us to improve our shop offering and enable the café to open outside of the museum hours. As a result, we are welcoming a wider demographic, and we have been able to increase both employment and volunteering opportunities for local residents. It’s a fantastic space to hang out.”

The museum also plays host to a number of interesting art and textile related exhibitions and events throughout the year, with its Chapel Art Gallery showcasing work by a number of artists and local collaborators. The calendar for 2023 is looking vibrant and during the summer events will include a ‘Big Swap’ – a sustainable clothes swap and talks on sustainable fashion, and a collaboration with Smedley’s to celebrate framework knitters through time, which will present a series of black and white photographs from the famous photographer Clive Booth.

The museum team are also working hard across the local community to establish opportunities for learning and discovery and are hoping to welcome as many people through the museum’s doors as they can, with a wide spectrum of activities. School visits and Interest groups are welcome.

They are currently teaming up with both The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University to look at a programme of wellbeing for students through knitting activities and offering museum studies, marketing and volunteering opportunities.

We came away with the sense that they are very much in the frame at the moment – not only bringing the magic of framework knitting to the forefront of people’s minds, but actively championing the importance of the textile industry, its crafts and people – past and present - as a whole across our region.

Sarah and the team are keen to welcome new visitors and invite families to discover the craft. “There is literally knit everywhere here! We remember how textiles helped to put Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire on the map, and by visiting you are helping to preserve this unique aspect of our industrial heritage. Come see us!”

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Framework Knitters Museum

Chapel St, Ruddington, Nottingham NG11 6HE

Wednesday - Saturday between 11am - 4pm. From the 2nd April, the museum will also be open on Sundays. Sunday opening hours are 1pm - 4pm.

Parker’s Yard

Wednesdays to Saturdays: 9.30am - 4.30pm

Sundays: 11.30am - 4.30pm

frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk

Framework Knitters Museum 43

Are you looking for a change in lifestyle?

Why your garden might be the answer

Gardens offer escapism and relaxation for busy individuals. For others, they are a place to relax and unwind, to enjoy spending time with family and friends. Gardens give us a sense of purpose, a chance to potter and grow simply for pleasure. Every garden should feel like a sanctuary that nurtures our souls.

Gardens should look beautiful and be good for the planet

That's why we've spent over 20 years helping garden lovers create uplifting, functional and wildlife-friendly spaces. Sustainable gardens are at the core of our work, creating spaces as spectacular as they are ecological.

Our approach

Designing and creating a garden that nurtures your needs and gives back to nature takes time and specialist know-how. If you don't have them, don't worry.

That's where we come in. We live and breathe gardens. And as a family business, we invest ourselves in your project. So, you can have faith in our approach, and ability to transform your space into a sanctuary you'll love. And we'll help you do your bit for our planet too.

Naturalistic gardens for modern living

Gardens and outdoor spaces are an antidote to our alwayson lifestyles. At Ellicar we specialise in designing and creating naturalistic gardens so you can step out of your door and straight into nature.

With easy-to-look-after ecological planting schemes that attract wildlife, and trees and shrubs for structure, blossom, winter bark and fragrance, our gardens are biodiverse, beautiful all year round and a boost to your wellbeing.

Sustainable methods good for the environment

Gardens are critical to improving our environment. Through thoughtful design and compassion for the land, we give you a beautiful and biodynamic garden that does its bit to help improve the planet and help fight climate change.

We commit to using local and recycled materials and UKgrown plants in all our gardens alongside often-overlooked essentials like composted green manures, soil conditioners and mulches. They all come together to improve plant growth, reduce maintenance, help lessen pollution, improve air quality and cut CO2. Through landscaping your garden sustainably,

Ellicar Gardens

we increase biodiversity and create a sanctuary for birds and wildlife. All while conserving water and reducing flooding.

Ecologically-friendly planting schemes for wildlife

Formal, contemporary, cottage or naturalistic style. Wildlife isn't fussy - it just needs the right plants plus a sprinkling of care and compassion.

We're experts in ecologically friendly planting schemes for every style of garden. You'll find them easy to care for, beautiful all year round, and your garden will come alive with wildlife. Beautiful flowers are a food source for pollinators, bringing butterflies and bumblebees back into your garden. Seed heads and grasses appear striking and architectural during winter while being a vital food source for wild birds. Shrubs and trees add structure to your space and provide habitats and nesting places. While mulches keep soils alive, bringing biodiversity from the ground up and habitat for amphibians and invertebrates.

‍Through your garden, you can play your part in reversing our declining wildlife and reducing the impact of modern-day living on our planet.

A wildlife pond brings your garden alive

Drawing on our knowledge as water specialists we are experts in creating balanced wildlife ponds, large or small, planted with native aquatic plants and landscaped into your garden to give you the perfect space to simply relax and enjoy watching the wildlife visit.

Natural swimming pools for relaxation and recreation

And if you are looking to take outdoor living and wellness to the next level, our natural swimming pools are the perfect outdoor living space for alfresco dining, relaxing beside the water and reconnecting with nature.

And with proven health benefits, wild swimming in biologically filtered, chemical free water in your own back garden, surrounded by beautiful water plants, immersed in nature might be just the lifestyle change you are looking for.

Open Gardens

Thurs 2nd & Fri 3rd March, 11am-4pm

Ellicar Gardens at Gringley on the Hill, opens to raise money for British Red Cross Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal And our local Hedgehog rescue centre

Come and join us for a cup of artisan coffee and slice of delicious home baked cake. Explore our 5 acre, naturalistic, wildlife friendly gardens with winter garden specials, fragrant winter flowering shrubs and early spring bulbs. Relax beside our beautiful natural swimming pool and say hello to our rare breed pets and Golden Guernsey goats. A lovely day out for wildlife enthusiasts and garden lovers. To find out more and for directions see www.ellicar.co.uk or visit our facebook page @Ellicar Pools and Landscapes

Our Services

Garden design, construction, and soft landscaping

Natural swimming pools and wildlife ponds, design and construction.

Email: info@ellicargardens.co.uk

Visit us to discuss your project at our Open Gardens www.ellicar.co.uk

Little Changes Mean A Lot!

Change your habits for a greener future.

We are all aware of the impact that we are having on the environment, by making changes every day you’ll be helping the planet and saving more money in your pocket too!

Recycle. Separate and sort, recycle at home and take to recycle centres. Switch it off. Get into the ‘switch it off’ habit. When you leave a room, at the end of the day switch off at the wall so standby lights aren’t on. Hang your washing out. Weather permitting of course, but when you get the chance, hang your washing on the line. Not only will it feel fresher, hanging your clothes out to dry means you don’t have to fill up your rooms with airers or switch on the tumble dryer.

Grow your own. Have a go at growing your own herbs or some veggies at home. Perhaps plant some fruit trees if you have space.

Save on water. In the garden you can collect rainwater to water your plants. Compost. Make a compost bin at home.

Turn down the heat... on your washing and use a quick cycle. Grab a cosy jumper and turn down your thermostat a notch. You can also look at changing your energy supplier to a greener option.

Little changes: Swap your light bulbs for energy saving light bulbs. Don’t forget your reusable bags when you go shopping. Buy a reusable coffee cup and water bottle to refill. Treat yourself to a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one. Grab some fresh air and plant a tree or dedicate a patch of garden to go wild and grow some wildlife flowers. Take shorter showers - even a couple of minutes less than usual will make a difference.

There is lots of online advice for living more sustainably, for energy saving and cost saving tips at home visit the Government site: helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk

Energy Efficiency In The Kitchen

Instant boiling water taps for your kitchen use less energy than traditional kettles as well as cutting down water waste! This makes a boiling water tap an environmentally conscious choice.

The boiling water taps can replace your kettle for any hot drinks or to add to your cooking pans that requires boiling water... anything from pasta and blanching vegetables through to cleaning your floors!

Fairfax & Porter, Bathrooms & Kitchens of Distinction, are Nottinghamshire stockists of the Kedl boiling water tap (pictured here), contact Fairfax & Porter on the details below or visit the showroom in Retford to find out more.

Fairfax & Porter

Bathrooms & Kitchens of Distinction Unit 4, Bulcote Business Park, Randall Park Way, Retford. DN22 8WQ Call: 01777 704981

Email: info@fairfaxandporter.co.uk fairfaxandporter.co.uk

Home & Garden
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An Eco-Conscious Lifestyle Experience

Newark's sustainable, ever changing, lifestyle emporium.

Grain @ No.1 is a special and inspirational place set in the heart of Newark on Trent. It boasts a vast and ever-changing range of antique and vintage furniture, lighting, pre-loved clothing, gifts, interior styling, soft furnishings, homewares and sustainable essentials. A combination that provides a unique experience with sustainability at its heart.

Set over four floors you can experience all the wonders this unique retailer has to offer. Head down to the basement to discover their latest reclaim finds, pay a visit to the interior styling room, where you can be assisted by the in-house interior designer specialising in bespoke-made soft furnishings and upholstery, then head upstairs to a special space full of unique antique and vintage finds.

On the top floor you’ll find their ‘white space’ where exhibitions, artists in residence and events take place. On the ground floor they offer refreshments, serving hot and cold drinks, light bites, delicious cakes. Here you can relax and soak up the ambience where everything is for sale, including the chair you're sitting on. 

@grainatnumber1

FABULOUS QUALITY, BESPOKE DESIGN Unit 4 Bulcote Business Park Randall Park Way Retford DN22 8WQ Showroom opening times Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 1.30pm jayne@fairfaxandporter.co.uk FairfaxandPorter.co.uk 01777 704981
Fabulous quality, bespoke design. Consultation and installation service available (by appointment).

Beautifully crafted

timber windows & doors

www.derwentwindows.co.uk
beauty of Enhance
HAND-MADE

the value & your home

the value & your home

The Old Bank

The Old Bank

1 Radcliffe Road West Bridgford

1 Radcliffe Road West Bridgford

Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire

NG2 5FF

NG2 5FF

Free parking on Pavilion Road, Enter Post Code NG2 5FP

Free parking on Pavilion Road, Enter Post Code NG2 5FP

Opening Times:

Opening Times:

Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm

TEL: 01159 818 777

Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm TEL: 01159 818 777

Email: info@derwentwindows.co.uk

Email: info@derwentwindows.co.uk

www.timberwindows.com

www.timberwindows.com

www.timberwindows.com
Visit Our SHOWROOM in West Bridgford OF CLIFTON OF NOTTINGHAM www.timberwindows.com
Visit Our SHOWROOM in West Bridgford

Boost Your Wellbeing... Start Upcycling

Creativity is something we can all express in a way that feels right for us. Sometimes we can put barriers up to creativity by thinking we need to buy new. But I am here to let you know that you can tap into that creativity, stop adding to waste and create something new and beautiful through upcycling. Rose from Breathing Space explains how.

Upcycling has in fact been around for many centuries. Examples of this can be found in the 1600’s where people reused old clothing to make garments or quilts, very much like the Amish who would reuse fabric scraps and create decorations in a useful way.

Materials, either cloth or from furniture are a great source, and have value and potential for creating something beautiful, different and something that expresses you and your personality. Upcycling is a great way to unleash your creativity and have some fun.

The great thing is that you can learn through just playing. See what happens or be inspired by life around you; and there are inspirational ideas within social media too. You don’t require experience, just the will and desire to play and have fun to create something unique.

By taking this approach you teach yourself to be resourceful, build resilience, and raise conscious awareness for those around you, especially children. You can spend time bonding and playing which supports your wellbeing whilst reducing waste. Remember ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’.

Are you ready to have a good clear out before spring and make space for new things? By upcycling instead of filling bags for charity shops (which is of course a great thing to do) you keep plastic bags, rubbish and old clothing out of the landfills, allowing the earth to do what she does best in the natural process of cleaning up.

Perhaps an old dress can be updated with an old scarf, a tired pair of trousers can be this summer’s new shorts, an old side table can be rubbed down and repainted or you can have a go at decorating it with pictures and varnishing it to make it a unique piece of furniture.

Are you ready to get creative? Unleash that creative spark and create something new. Open-up your mind to new ideas and ways to make a difference in your space, the possibilities are endless.

At Breathing Space, I always look for alternative ways to support the planet, my environment and create a unique expression of myself. This has been fantastic for clients through Breathing Space workshops, and helped them to learn more about themselves and how connected we are to the planet. It’s time to develop the art of letting go and simply play.

“To leave the world better than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other peoples trash”. Bill Nye.

50 Rose - The Wellness Business Network Breathingspace17@gmail.com Member of the Wellness Business Network For more information go to wwwthewellnessnetwork.co.uk or email info@thewellnessnetwork.co.uk
+44 (0)1777 712661 hello@decorclever.com www.decorclever.com Online Emporium An eclectic mix of striking homeware interiors DÉCOR CLEVER NEW Introducing a new range of beautiful, architect-quality, lightly textured wallpapers by Ada

Go Peat-Free In Your Garden

When it comes to the environment, the choices you make for your garden are just as important as those you make for your home. Did you know you could directly help save and restore wetlands by going peat-free in your garden?

We share the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust’s words of wisdom about peat and how to go peatfree in your garden.

Our peatlands are disappearing

They’re being dug up, bagged up and sold as part of garden compost. By making the choice to use peat-free compost in your garden, you can help the world retain its ability to absorb carbon and stop large amounts of additional carbon being released into our air. It’s a significant way that you can help tackle climate change.

What is peat and why does it matter?

Peat is made of partially decayed organic matter, formed in unique environmental conditions. You find it in wetlands such as bogs, mires and moors in almost every country on earth. Because of peat’s unique composition, the wildlife that forms its ecosystem often can’t thrive anywhere else, because it’s uniquely adapted to peatland conditions.

Carbon is at the heart of the issue of global warming. There is too much of it in the atmosphere and our world is heating up. This is where our peatlands come in. After our oceans, peatlands are the second largest store of carbon on the planet, thanks to the way their ecosystem captures more carbon than is released into the atmosphere.

Peat bogs absorb carbon like a sponge, sucking it out of our atmosphere. But unlike our oceans, which cover 71% of the planet, they are not abundant, covering only 3% of the world’s surface. So they’re disproportionately useful.

Peat takes centuries to form, and when it’s removed from the wetland bogs for gardening supplies, it releases all that stored carbon dioxide back out into the atmosphere.

Go peat-free and support our planet

Specific advice is difficult without

knowing your soil, growing conditions and plants of choice. But here are some ideas for going peat-free:

Buy peat-free compost

Peat and compost aren’t the same thing. Peat-based products are often a mixture of both, with compost providing food while peat manages stability, air and water and reduces disease risk. To confuse things further, ‘peat-reduced’ compost can still contain as much as 50% peat. Peat from a ‘sustainable source’ or ‘peat from a renewable source’ are unfortunately not addressing the root of the problem. Similarly, soil improvers and growing media described only as being ‘environmentally friendly’, ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ are best avoided. These claims don’t tell you anything about the peat content of a product, so peat may still be present.

Luckily, suppliers of compost are adapting to the turning tide and there are several options available, including bark, wood fibre, coir, or plant-based compost, which is just a large commercial version of making your own compost for free.

A guide to peat-free alternatives Bark

Provides good structure and improves drainage, but has a low water holding capacity so usually has to be blended with other materials.

Wood fibre

Manufactured using highpressure steam, creating a very uniform material with low risk of contamination.

Green compost

Generally has a high pH and nutrient content, making it an excellent soil improver or mulch, but it needs diluting for use as a growing medium. Green

compost should meet a quality assurance standard (BSI PAS 100).

Coir

Natural fibre extracted from the husk of coconuts and a waste product from mat, brush and rope-making. Of all the replacements, it is the most similar to peat in its properties, although poor in holding nutrients. There are concerns about the environmental and ethical aspects of coir production: its processing requires chemicals and creates waste; nutrients are stripped from the local soil by growing coconuts; coconut transportation has energy costs; and some coir processors work very long hours in unhealthy conditions. Some producers seek to address these issues through rules on sourcing and working conditions, so do your research.

Most types of compost will be fine if you’re a generalist gardener. If you’re specifically used to using peat compost, you’ll find each has slightly different properties so investigate if one is better for specific gardening needs. Try looking for locally sourced peat-free compost.

If you’re just looking to suppress weeds, bark chippings will work better than a plant-based compost which focuses on providing nutrients. Or if you’re only looking to acidify your soil, use sulphur or sulphurbased treatments instead of peat. Check the exact material on the packaging rather than relying on terms like “environmentally friendly” which can be vague.

More of a challenge is looking for plants grown in peat-free compost, but it is possible and there are an increasing number of suppliers out there. Your local garden centre will be able to help with specific queries on which option is best for your garden.

52 Home & Garden
This feature is
to the
For further information please visit: www.ngs.org.uk
thanks
National Garden Scheme, from The Little Yellow Book of Gardens and Health.

Glorious Spring Gardens

Daffodils herald the coming of spring, a time of renewal after the long cold winter. Gardens are awakening and spring bulbs are a joy to see. It is a time for getting outside and enjoying the spring sunshine and visiting a Nottinghamshire National Garden Scheme open garden. Garden visiting is a national hobby which we can all enjoy, a chance

to meet with like minded gardeners, and enjoy the beauty of the gardens.

Many of the gardens are also ‘open by arrangement’ for groups which enables groups to arrange a personalised visit on a date to suit you, please visit www.ngs.org.uk for more details. For a full list of our beneficiaries, please visit: ngs.org.uk/beneficiaries.

Here are the gardens you can visit:

12 Mar Upper Grove Farm, Norwell Woodhouse, Newark. NG23 6NG. 12pm - 4pm.

Upper Grove Farm is a country garden around a farmhouse. Featuring a small orchard and informal beds of spring/summer flowers. Lots of daffodils to admire. Most of the garden is accessible to wheelchairs with some gravel paths. Dog friendly, refreshments, wheelchair access.

16 Apr

Felley Priory, Underwood. NG16 5FJ. 10am - 4pm.

A garden for all seasons with yew hedges and topiary, snowdrops, hellebores, herbaceous borders and roses. There are pergolas, a white garden, small arboretum and borders filled with unusual trees, shrubs, plants and bulbs. Bluebell woodland walk and orchard with extremely rare daffodils. This garden was a finalist in the English Garden magazine, ‘The Nation’s favourite gardens’, in 2021. Wheelchair access, plants for sale, parking, refreshments, card payment available.

22 Apr

Oasis Community Gardens, Longfellow Drive, Kilton Estate, Worksop. S81 0DE.

10am - 3pm.

Oasis Gardens is a community project transformed from abandoned field to an award winning garden. Managed by volunteers the gardens are home to over 30 project areas, several garden enterprises and hosts many community evens. Wheelchair access, plants for sale, refreshments, picnic area, card payment available.

30 Apr

160 Southwell Road West. Mansfield. NG18 4HB.

1pm - 4.30pm.

NEW GARDEN FOR 2023. This large garden was started from scratch in spring 2018. There is a range of growing environments including a woodland garden, a border designed for sun, large island beds, vegetable garden with a wide range of climbers growing up a variety of structures. A particular interest of the garden owners is agapanthus, woodland plants and vegetables. Some wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments.

Images courtesy: Oasis Community Gardens, Upper Grove Farm (inset), courtesy of National Garden Scheme. For the latest information and Open Gardens, please visit: www.ngs.org.uk

Our Balance With Nature

Research and common sense tell us that connection with nature is good for our health and wellbeing, especially our mental health. What’s good for us is good for our planet too.

Wayapa is a form of Mindfulness which is practiced by many First Nation People of Australia. It fuses wellbeing with regenerative living by empowering individuals to focus on how they can contribute to this necessary shift in our human occupations. The intergenerational collective wellness of our societies can become sustainable and regenerative options of consumption. Benefiting health and wellbeing of people and planet. Together we can put Nature into recovery globally!

Earth Connection means our connection with Nature and with each other. When we can appreciate that our climate crisis is our crisis, it belongs to all of us. What happens in one part of the globe directly impacts on another part.

Together we can create a change in our consuming human occupations that will bring, balance, harmony, and reciprocity with nature into our lives. We are nature. We can honour and enjoy our connection as part of nature in our daily lives. We’re not apart from nature, because nature sustains us in every part of our life. If we take a moment to breathe, we may realise, we share a sacred breath with the plant kingdom, the soil that nourishes us, and the water cycle that hydrates us all. The water cycle of this huge and ancient terrarium we live upon, where all things connect!

Wayapa offers a truly inclusive wellbeing practice that can be experienced as a visualisation or movement practice. The movements can be completed whilst you’re seated or standing, it all depends on your preference which makes it truly inclusive and available to any one of any age to their ability.

At the heart of Wayapa there is a simple but profoundly empowering message for every citizen of Earth.

“We can’t be well if our Mother Earth is sick.”

(Co-creator

It’s a simple equation and one we know to be true. It’s time to reconnect as part of nature, with nature and gain all the wellbeing this brings to us and our planet. We can approach

the complexities of the climate crisis with Hope and purpose. Believing that together we can ‘rise up’ to this challenge and create the difference our Earth requires from us now.

Nature Connection = Earth Protection

Wayapa encourages us to look after our Earth and ourselves by making more sustainable and regenerative choices in our consumption and human occupations to create a collective difference to support nature's recovery.

Wayapa respects our individual journeys in life without ego or judgement. We don’t know what we don’t know! Ultimately our choices create our experience of life and this is true for the life of our Earth. It is true for us and for all our non-human and human kin ‘all things connect.’*

Wayapa is a gift from the First Nation People of Australia but it isn’t here to teach culture. That is the privilege of my First Australian family who have always cared for Country.

Wayapa is here to share the ancient and sacred wisdom of nature connection in a mindful and meaningful way, with every culture and society on Earth.

“We are all citizens of the Earth and we all come from a tribe somewhere, sometime.”

It’s time to experience truly holistic and inclusive wellbeing benefits of Nature connection for planet and people. If you’d like to know more about Wayapa or share a yarn about your nature connection journey please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.

Member of the Wellness Business Network

For more information go to wwwthewellnessnetwork.co.uk or email info@thewellnessnetwork.co.uk

Health
Debbie Mace, 4 Pachamama CIC Wayapa Wuurrker
54
Honouring My Message Stick Created by Artist Mark Lumley Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta.

A Natural Connection

Can reconnecting with the natural world really improve my life and the planet's future?

Chris Collins, Life Coach, explains.

The simple answer is “YES!” and humans have known and felt this for many centuries. Ask yourself why it is that we feel happier and more energized when we spend some time outdoors?

Right back to the Ancient Greeks, Aristotle would take his students outside the perimeter of the Lyceum to walk and teach in order to improve their performance. This early anecdotal evidence has since been studied extensively and this research has proven a wealth of physical, mental and emotional benefits.

• It promotes a deeper ability to contemplate and reflect.

• It increases cognitive control and directed attention.

• It builds greater awareness towards individual behaviour, emotions, values and beliefs.

• It promotes stronger connections towards self, others and the environment.

• It promotes an expanded sense of identity beyond the ego and development of the ecological self.

Put more simply, just walking in nature can make us feel a new level of connection with our surroundings and as blood flow and lung function increase, we produce beneficial neurotransmitters, one of which is called Anandamide or “The Bliss Molecule”.

This recently discovered chemical binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body (the same ones that the active THC chemical in Cannabis binds to), stimulating a sense of happiness and mental wellness. It also makes us more creative, hence the recent boom seen in “Eco-coaching” where coaches take their clients out into Green and Blue (aquatic) spaces so they can tap into this enhance creativity, revealing more possibilities for their clients.

The aerosols of chemicals given off by many plants increases the number of NK (Natural Killer) cells produced in our bodies, boosting our immune systems to fight infections and tumors.

The research shows that to get these gains an individual needs to be outdoors for a minimum of 120 mins per week but that does not need to be all in one go. The benefits are huge and very clear but “How achievable is that?”

If you don’t want to do it for yourself then do it for your kids as the latest research shows that kids that spend 4 hrs per week outside have 50% fewer eyesight issues than those that don’t!

We have evolved to look over endless vistas so when we are fixed on small screens and live and work in small spaces, it narrows our perceived options in life and stifles who we are.

A National Trust Membership is £12/month for a family of 4+, £8 for a single parent family and £6 for an individual and I urge you to take one out, invest in, preserve and use our Green & Blue spaces so that we don’t lose them and the ability to be our true selves in the process.

My advice:

Take an hour walk at the weekend somewhere.

Walk to that Pub/Restaurant close by. Get outside during your lunch break at work if you can.

Bring the outside into your home by having plants in the rooms you spend most time in.

Eat more veg based proteins!

Chris Collins - ICF level 2 / ACTP Accredited Coach. For further details and to speak to Chris call: 07973 179982

Email: chris_collins22@hotmail.com

You can also find booking details through instagram @chriscollinscoach

 Chris Collins Life Coach

Health

Mini Greens That Pack A Mighty Punch...

Nottinghamshire based business, Vale Microgreens, is dedicated to growing beautifully nutritious baby plants – microgreens. Made meets Amy and Simon, the people behind this super product to learn more...

Just over a year ago, Nottinghamshire couple, Simon Dickinson and Amy Stroud, had a vision to create a new business growing microgreens. These are fast growing crops, packed with nutrients, sustainably farmed and a wonderful addition to meals or a supplement, aimed to help people improve health and wellbeing.

Amy and Simon were inspired by a David Attenborough documentary on climate change. The documentary talked about countries such as Singapore that utilise vertical farming in urban areas due to high population but limited farmland.

Vertical farming produces food on vertically stacked racks in an indoor environment. Yields are not constrained to seasons or the weather so can produce crops all year round. Modern LEDs create the perfect environment to stimulate plant growth and farming within a controlled environment means no pests which means no pesticides or herbicides. These conditions mean that the farm can be brought closer to the end user, in turn reducing the carbon footprint of the process.

Simon explained, “We stumbled across microgreen farming as a result of the documentary and just thought why not try to grow some for ourselves. It started as a bit of fun but also with the intention of approaching some local restaurants to see what happened. The feedback was great due to the freshness of the product at the right price. We approached more restaurants and found similar responses. Before we knew it, we had started a small business!”

The business was a welcome new direction for both Amy and Simon. Simon had trained as a Mechanical Design Engineer for around eight years and Amy previously worked in the care industry as well as raising two children.

Amy notes, “Although we had no plan to move in this direction, I think we’re both naturally suited to running a small business. Together, I think it is fair to say, we are good at being proactive and making things happen.”

Vale Microgreens

The business quickly took shape, initially selling to local pubs and restaurants as a garnish, it was not long before Amy and Simon embraced the powerful health benefits of microgreens and started developing their dried product to help people boost their daily diet.

Simon tells us, “Today we still supply restaurants with fresh microgreens but since starting the business we have learnt about the powerful health benefits microgreens have to offer us. They are exceptionally nutritious! For example, we had some of our red cabbage microgreen analysed and it was reported to contain 62 times more Vitamin A than its mature counterpart.”

More recently the couple have developed a ‘dried’ microgreen product which is designed to help people get high quality natural nutrition in their diet in a quick and easy way. This is produced through freeze drying.

Simon explains, “Starting with a crop that is nutrient dense, we freezedry our greens immediately after they have been harvested, at their nutritional peak. The process does not damage the natural enzymes or antioxidants due to the low temperatures used. Once complete, the vegetable can be preserved in its raw state for over 20 years.”

Freeze drying locks-in the nutrients – to preserve the greens the water content needs to be removed, with care not to damage the nutritional goodness. Freeze drying is a relatively modern process that does not affect the vitamins, minerals and enzymes throughout drying. For the final product the freeze-dried crops are simply milled into a powder ready to use. No fillers. No additives. Just 100% microgreens.

Amy explains, “Microgreens are nutrient dense meaning small amounts can deliver a real nutritional boost. For example, just one teaspoon of our powdered microgreens is equivalent to one of your five-a-day. Microgreens are a better choice than shop bought multivitamins because they are also rich in phytonutrients, substances found in plants which are beneficial to human health and preventing disease.”

The uses for microgreen powder are endless. It is flexible to cook with as an addition to meals such as salads, pasta, stir fry’s, pizzas, soups, salads, and smoothies. Simply mix it in just before serving (so the heat of the dish doesn’t damage the natural plant enzymes).

Vale Microgreens has several products available currently including microgreen capsules, raw microgreen powder and a lovely addition to their shop – grow your own microgreens kit, and there are plans to expand the range as the company grows.

Amy is enthusiastic about these products and the company’s plans to expand, “Currently our microgreen powder is going down well, especially with mums who have fussy eaters. Moving forward we would like to expand the range of crops we use in the capsules and powder, continue our Microgreen research and deepen our knowledge of what benefits greens can give us.”

Vale Microgreens and their products has been noticed, recently becoming finalists in the Leicestershire Innovation 2023 Awards.

Microgreens.

Microgreens are essentially just baby vegetables, about 10-12 days old. At this early stage they are packed with the nutrition they need to grow up into mature plants.

It all begins with organic seeds, sown in a clean growing medium called Coco coir which is the natural fibre from coconut husks. They are then left in darkness for a few days to germinate.

Once germinated, they are brought onto vertical racking and watered regularly. The light, temperature and humidity are all controlled allowing for the best growing conditions all year round.

After 10 – 12 days the microgreens are ready. Like any other vegetable, once harvested their nutrients will start to decrease so they are promptly freeze-dried to capture the goodness at its peak.

For further details about Vale Microgreens, the products available and to read Amy and Simon’s blog, please visit: valemicrogreens.co.uk

Gorgeous recipes & beautifully designed. Perfect for the kitchen or the coffee table! Bring on Spring Order yours today! Limited availability of 1st editions VISIT www.madeinn.co.uk/shop

Super Greens!

A selection of wonderfully tasty and healthy plant based recipes.

&

59

If you are following a Vegan diet and cutting out meat, dairy, fish and eggs you must ensure your diet still gets all the nutrients it needs to prevent anaemia and fatigue. The richest source of VitB12 is in these foods, so ensure you eat fortified foods such as cereals, wholegrain breads and yeast extracts. Chia seeds, olive oils, avocados and walnuts will provide omega 3 fats.

Chickpeas, kale, brocolli and fortied plant milks will provide calcium and eating tofu, pulses and nuts protein. Leafy greens, vegetables and fruits for Vitamin C will make sure your diet remains healthy.

Frozen and canned vegetables are great to use when following a healthy diet and can be just as good for you.

Souper Greens Soup

Ingredients

Garlic infused rapeseed oil

1 leek, sliced

2 small heads broccoli, cut into florets

5 balls of frozen spinach

1½ litres hot vegetable stock

Method

1. Place the oil and leeks into a saucepan and fry for 3-4 minutes, add the broccoli florets, and spinach and pour in the hot vegetable stock.

2. Bring up to boil, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Reserve a couple of broccoli florets to chop and use as garnish.

4. Blend the soup until smooth with a stick blender or in a liquidiser.

5. Serve in bowls garnished with a little chopped broccoli. Serves 4

Adding a garnish can really lift a soup and make it more filling and appetising. I sprinkled 1/2 teaspoonful of Vale Microgreens onto each serving to make my Greens Soup even more super nutritious.

Soup Toppings

Vegan

Reserved cooked vegetables

Croutons

Diced fried potatoes

Chopped herbs

Micro greens

Seeds

Canned beans

Vegan yogurts

Non-vegan

Double cream

Crème fraîche

Quark

Yoghurt

Diced and fried Halloumi cheese

Goats cheese blended with a little yoghurt

Blue cheese blended with a little cream

Crispy pancetta or bacon

Grated Parmesan

Food & Drink 60

Butternut Squash Curry With Chick Peas & Spinach

A simple mild vegan curry using storecupboard and freezer ingredients.

Ingredients

1 medium Butternut squash peeled and cut into 3cm chunks

2 medium onions, thinly sliced

1 tbsp garlic infused rapeseed oil

1 tbsp medium curry powder

400g tin coconut milk

400g tin chick peas, drained and rinsed, reserve the liquid (aquafaba) to use in the meringue recipe

350mls hot vegetable stock

3-4 cubes of frozen spinach or a 130g pkt of spinach leaves

Salt and pepper

To serve

Cooked Basmati rice or Naan

Method

1. Fry onions in oil until starting to soften, add the butternut squash and gently cook for a further 5 minutes.

2. Add the curry powder and cook for 1 min.

3. Add coconut milk, stock and chick peas to just about cover the squash. Season with salt or pepper.

4. Simmer for 14-15 mins or until squash has almost softened.

5. Add frozen spinach cubes or spinach leaves leaves and cook for a further 4-5 minutes and serve with rice or naan.

Serves 4

61 Food & Drink

Tofu With Stir

Fried Vegetables & Noodles

Ingredients

2 tbsp garlic infused oil

1 packet firm smoked tofu, cut into dice sized pieces

3 tbsp dark soy sauce

1 tsp grated fresh ginger

½ tsp Chinese 5 spice powder

4 dried egg noodle nests

1 packet mushroom stir fry vegetable mix

To serve

Extra soy and chilli flakes

Method

1. Place the garlic oil, tofu, soy, ginger and 5 spice powder into a small bowl and mix well to combine.

2. Cook noodles according to the instructions on the packet and set aside.

3. Preheat a wok and add the tofu mix, stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the vegetable mix and continue stir frying for a further 3-4 minutes.

5. Add the noodles and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

Serves 2-3

62

Quick Pineapple & Kiwi Dessert

Combine fresh or tinned pineapple pieces and two peeled and sliced kiwi with a carton of Natural Plant Based Coconut Colab yogurt. Top with 2-3 meringues.

Vegan Meringues

Ingredients

120mls liquid from a tin of chickpeas

120g caster sugar

½ tsp cream of tartar

1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

1. Pour the chickpeas into a sieve over a large bowl. Reserve the chickpeas for use in a recipe.

2. Whisk the chickpea liqueur (aquafaba) with an electric mixer until very stiff and meringue- like – this will take at least 10 minutes longer than whisking egg whites.

3. Whisk 1 tbsp caster sugar into the mixture, whisk for 1 minute and repeat until all the sugar has been added.

4. Whisk in the cream of tartar and the vanilla extract.

5. Put the mixture into a large piping bag with a star nozzle.

6. Preheat the oven to 100ºC Fan/Gas ½

7. Pipe or spoon small meringues onto 2 baking trays which have been lined with non stick baking paper.

8. This mixture should make 50 small meringues.

9. Bake the meringues for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn the oven off and leave the meringues to cool in the oven for 30 minutes.

Makes 50 small meringues –(store in an airtight container).

63 Food & Drink

Microwave Meringues

Ingredients

275g icing sugar

1 egg white

Method

1. Mix together the icing sugar and 1 large egg white with a fork until combined. Knead with your fingertips until soft and shinythe consistency should be a bit like play doh!

2. Roll the mixture into 24 marble sized balls and cook 6 at a time well- spaced out on a large flat plate lined with non-stick baking paper for 1 minute 20-30 seconds.

Watch timings carefully the first time you make these, as microwave ovens vary in performance – do not over cook the meringues as they can caramelise on the inside quite easily. If you have a 1000 watt microwave use a Medium power setting.

3. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Leave to meringues to cool.

4. Sandwich 2 meringues together with double cream, yogurt or coconut collaborate and some fresh strawberries or raspberries. Drizzle with a little melted chocolate before serving if desired or crumble and use in an Eton Mess.

Makes 12 meringues

For a full list of dates and events where Teresa will be featured in cookery demonstrations, or to book onto a demonstration day visit:

www.teresabovey.co.uk

64 Food & Drink

WeRecommend...

Mr & Mrs Fine Wine

We’re all thinking about our environmental impact now more than ever and we’re proud to say that our winemakers are too. In terms of wine production, there are a few ‘buzzwords’ we often hear. Some wines are Biodynamic which means that the wine maker farms the entire vineyard in its entirety, using only natural materials and composts. Biodynamic wine farming practices are also dictated by the biodynamic calendar.

Brilliantly Biodynamic

Our vegan Château La Bienviellance Organ ic Blanc, Bordeaux, France, £13.99, is 100% Semillon from an eight-hectare estate. The owners of the vineyard took a drastic change of career to follow their dreams of being Bio dynamic winemakers and the quality of this wine shows their venture has certainly paid off! Full of aromas of honey and dried fruit, this wine would pair excellently with many light springtime fish dishes or a selection of soft cheeses.

Producers of Biodynamic wines since 2002, the makers of our Domaine Bott-Geyl Or ganic Gewurtztraminer ‘Les Elements’, £21.99, know their craft as heirs to a wine making family since 1795! If you’re planning a coconut based vegetable curry then this wine will work a treat alongside!

Mother’s Day Magic

Mother’s Day calls for something special and Goudoulin Gin, £39.99, made by the renowned Armagnac maker just oozes elegance! Full of botanicals, coriander, orange zest and angelica, this one is something different, a French ‘sipping gin’ to be enjoyed on its own, with a touch of ice or as a long drink if you prefer, with tonic.

For a touch of sparkle that will certainly dazzle any fan of fine Champagne, Gusbourne Blanc de Noirs, £59.99, Kent, England, is made using the very best parcels of Pinot Noir grapes, producing rich, dense flavours of candied fruits. A lovely, bold style of sparkling wine to discover and no doubt love!

Introducing... Happy Roots Farm

26 Oxcroft Estate, Oxcroft, S80 4NA happyrootsfarm.co.uk

Happy Roots Farm is a flower farm and British seasonal florist based in Bolsover, on the Nottinghamshire/ Derbyshire border.

We specialise in growing and arranging homegrown, locally sourced & British seasonal blooms, for weekly bunches, gifts, occasions, weddings and funerals.

We grow a wide range of beautiful flowers, from tulips and roses to dahlias, sunflowers and sweet peas, and arrange them in a natural, wild and romantic style.

We also hold a range of workshops and events throughout the year, from bouquet making and floral arrangements to Christmas wreath making.

With a commitment to sustainability, we use environmentally friendly methods to cultivate all our flowers, use no pesticides or sprays, and no single use plastic in any of our packaging - simply wrapping our bouquets in brown paper.

Find out more about us on our website www.happyrootsfarm.co.uk or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @happyrootsfarmuk

Easter feasts

Time to celebrate the longer days and the promise of summer days ahead with a classic Easter Sunday lunch of roast lamb! A perfect pairing alongside lamb is a Chianti. Made with 90% Sangiovese grapes aged for 24 months in large Slavonian casks, Vinciano Chianti Riserva, £18.99, has expressive notes of cherries and prunes and a bright freshness to enhance the rich flavours of the meat.

www.mrandmrsfinewine.co.uk

Stunning& Sustainable. Gorgeous clothing without the price tag for the planet. Look out for fashion made from sustainable materials. This page NoLoGo Birdsong Shirt Folly Red. £39. Available at NoLoGo: www.nologo-chic.co.uk Fashion
This page NoLoGo Birdsong Shirt Tail Dress Folly Red, £95.07. Available at NoLoGo: www.nologo-chic.co.uk 67
This page NoLoGo Birdsong Ruffle Dress Bloomsbury Blue, £45. Available at NoLoGo: www.nologo-chic.co.uk 68 Fashion

Eco -friendly Glamour

Gorgeous eco-friendly finds from Monsoon

Conscious Closet

www.conscious-closet.co.uk

In the world of dressing up there are two women working to change our attitude to ‘wear once and throw away fashion.’

Sustainable fashion brand Conscious Closet was born during lockdown by Sarah Rockley and Lisa Holland – who working in the industry have witnessed the impact on the environment in terms of clothing waste.

They now have a private appointment studio in Southwell specialising in occasion-wear – the items most likely to sit in your wardrobe without being worn.

“We offer dresses including pre-loved and rental options for proms and special events. We handpick new dresses from fragmented stock to help save waste, plus encourage our customers to return their dresses to resell” they explain.

The handmade bolero pictured here is an item from Conscious Closet's own brand range - designed by Sarah & Lisa and sourced from India in-line with their sustainable values. Available in plain black, black/gold, and soon all white for the wedding season, £85.00.

Contact for a private appointment: www.conscious-closet.co.uk and follow for sustainable fashion and clothes swap events @consciouscloset.uk

1. Monsoon, Frill neck metallic print dress with sustainable cotton black £80. 2. Monsoon, Mary embroidered top in sustainable viscose black £60. 3. Monsoon, embroidered jersey top in sustainable cotton black £65. 4. Monsoon, Lina foil print skirt in sustainable viscose black £55. Available at www.monsoon.co.uk 4. 3. 1. 2.
Fashion
Single necklace: Anna Beck from Last Night I Dreamt. Double gold chains: Missoma from Liberty.

Kuki Take Flight

Simon Nicholls and Matthew Peach are leading the way with flying colours in avaition training here in Nottinghamshire. With a fleet of six aircraft the sky really is the limit!

“Here at Kuki we believe that the freedom of flight in a Helicopter is one of the most amazing experiences that you can ever be lucky enough to enjoy. The ‘flying bug’, that we really feel, is a thing!”

Simon, the founder and chief pilot at Kuki says, “Learning to fly one of these amazing machines is so addictive. Not only can you hover away from the ground with precision, but you can also float away - like being on your own magic carpet, flying with your friends and family. Immersed in the sense of freedom in the vastness of the sky away from the ground, away from everything and everyone, is indescribable.”

Kuki was founded in November 1997 after Simon realised there was a need for a Helicopter training company with a fresh, nononsense, and much friendlier approach in the UK. He wanted to share his enthusiasm for flying helicopters in a less formal environment that was less typical of a traditional ‘stuffy’ flying school. So, Kuki was born - and an environment createdwhere people could relax as they learn and immediately feel part of the unique Kuki culture.

Simon explains, “At Kuki we help people nurture and fulfil their flying dreams. We built a purpose-built facility here at Gamston solely for all things Helicopter and for the customers to enjoy. We teach people the art of flying helicopters and to gain their Pilots licence.

“When you head over to Gamston Airport, take a right through the gate and keep driving until you see a super cool black building adorned with the Kuki logo. As you head inside, we hope that you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported from an airfield in Retford to somewhere Steve McQueen would

be happy to hang out. We've created an environment where the vibe is incredibly cool. We've even managed to park a motorbike next to the coffee machine!”

Kuki has now been around for over 25 years and, in that time, has flown over 23,500 hrs. The team here can boast a 100% pass rate and more importantly a zero accident or incident safety record. Importantly, that 100% safety record extends to all the students that we have taught and have gone on to fly for pleasure or a career.

In the beginning there was just Simon and one R22 Helicopter. Now, Kuki have a fleet of helicopters and a close-knit team who all embrace the Kuki way of working.

Simon and Matt conduct the daily flight training, Simon has been flying Helicopters since he was 18 years old and has over 7,500 hrs in instructing in Helicopters. Matt is a part-owner of Kuki, and did all of his flight training at Kuki. Now, after 12 years here, Matt has over 4,000 hours of instructing trainee pilots. Between them, Simon and Matt add different ways and methods of training that ensure each student is matched to the best instructor as they progress through the syllabus.

Kya Hughes is the marketing and social media guru, as well as a trainee pilot herself. She is the newest member of the team and because she’s experienced in learning how to fly, knows how to keep customers calm and happy whilst they’re at Kuki.

Matt notes, “Ask any pilot and they’ll tell you that there’s nothing quite like the feeling of flying. There is an addictive freedom in circling high above the clouds, a magnificent thrill in increasing altitude, all whilst looking down on the world”.

Kuki Helicopters

Gamston Airport, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 0QL Call: 01777 839216 | Email: info@kuki.co.uk

kuki.co.uk

71
 /kukihelicopters 
 kukiheli
@kukihelicopters
“For most people, the sky’s the limit. For those who love aviation, the sky is home.”
- Jerry Crawford
Simon and Matt made what I thought would be an impossible dream, actually come true...”
- Nick Hardy, Kuki-Trained Heli Pilot
Trial dream-making lessons are available at Kuki from just £120 plus VAT

An Electrifying Experience

When considering an electric car, many people have 'range anxiety'. The fear of running out of electric or not being able to have a normal day out without worrying about finding a charging station. The BMW iX 40, for example, can easily achieve a range of 220 miles if you’re driving the car economically, with the iX50 and iX60 giving a range of 315 miles

Sytner BMW Nottingham's Head of Sales Daniel Lawrence, can testify to this as an owner of the new BMW iX40, “I personally travel around 100 miles a day on a round trip to work, and haven’t experienced a problem so far. On a daily basis, I cannot imagine that many more people are driving more than 200 miles per day, with 1,000’s of charge points all over the country it’s not hard to plan a route.”

Charging your car

Charging your car doesn’t have to be stressful, simply download one of the multiple charge point apps and choose a point. Daniel notes, “I just charge it every evening when I get home on a normal home plug, I don’t have a wall box, although some would recommend this for charge times. You will often find charge points at supermarkets or gyms, just pop it on charge while you’re there, although

these can sometimes be a little bit more expensive so check the charges before you plug in.”

What does kW per hour mean?

For example, the iX40 has a 77kW battery, once we understand the charge capacity of the battery we can convert charge points kW per hour into charge times. There are a few different kW charges to choose from but typically they’re 7kW/h, 22kW/h, 50kW/h, and a home plug charges around 2kW per hour. For instance, if you plugged into a readily available 50kW/h charger, it would take roughly 1-2 hours to charge. If you used a 150kW/h per hour charger it would take about 30 minutes for the same battery. These are very efficient chargers and always in demand for this reason.

Driving

The day-to-day drive in the pure electric iX40 has that great luxury feel that you would expect from any BMW SUV. There are multiple media charging points inside the car, including in the rear, for charging accessories etc. This makes it perfect for rear passengers with mobile devices on a long journey.

The vehicle boasts some lovely elements that suit most refined of expectations, front and rear heated seats, panoramic

sunroof, as well as an auto drive function - a great safety feature. The iX has two main drive modes Drive (D) and Battery (B). You can use the options of a high, medium, or low regenerative braking when you change driving mode. The high option practically allows one-pedal driving because all braking happens regeneratively (i.e recharges some of your battery as you drive). The low braking option allows for energy recovery to simulate traditional coasting.

Environmental impact

Thanks to the use of BMW EfficientDynamics and eDrive technology, the Global Warming Potential of the iX40 is about 36% lower than that of the conventionally powered X5 30d across its whole life cycle. If renewable energy sources are used for charging, the reduction is at about 66%. BMW uses 100% green electricity at its manufacturing plants so that no unnecessary emissions are created during the production phase.

There are other ethical considerations too such as, where the raw materials used for battery production come from. Within the manufacturing process, the iX uses a greater percentage of recycled materials, with 132 pounds of recycled plastic in total. This roughly adds up to an 18% reduction in carbon emissions.

Find out more:

Sytner BMW Nottingham

Lenton Lane, Nottingham, NG7 2AX Tel: 0115 9341414

www.sytnernottinghambmw.co.uk

Motoring
A day in the life of a BMW iX xDrive40. A perfectly formed SUV, fully charged and ready for action. Imagery courtesy of BMW.
Lenton Ln, Nottingham NG7 2AX • 0115 672 9322 www.sytner.co.uk/bmw/alpinax www.facebook.com/AlpinaGB/
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A state-of-art future. The
Porsche Centre Nottingham Electric Avenue Riverside Retail Park Queens Drive Nottingham, NG2 1RS 0115 986 0911 info@porschenottingham.co.uk www.porschenottingham.co.uk
An exciting future lies ahead for Porsche Centre Nottingham, with the construction of a brand-new Destination Porsche Centre at a new location in the Rushcliffe District. Set to open before Spring 2023, the new site will offer a 12-car showroom, multiple configuration zones and 12 fully equipped workshop bays. It will also boast the very latest in Centre design and be able to cater to the full Porsche range, including Porsche Classic models. new-look Porsche Centre Nottingham coming soon.
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