Made lifestyle magazine - Issue 1

Nov/Dec/17 Issue 1

Made lifestyle

060075 5

ISSN 2515-6551

555855

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Made in North Notts News & Events Home & Garden Food & Drink Fashion & Beauty Business & Leisure

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Welcome to the premiere edition of Made The team here at Made HQ have been working hard to bring you lots of interesting, informative and inspirational features.

There’s plenty going on in North Notts and we’ll try not to miss a minute. Launching a magazine in the run up to Christmas has been a challenge we’ve loved. There are so many other exciting

and tasking things to do at this time of year in the whirlwind that is the festive season; the perfect gifts, the perfect food, the perfect decorations and the list goes on. When you have a minute to sit down and take a breath over the next couple of months, take a look at some of our home grown North Notts wonders.

Made Made lifestyle magazine is created through the collaboration of the following partners:

In this edition we delve into the world of author Stephen Booth to find out more about his latest novel Dead In The Dark and the secrets to writing crime fiction. We meet ceramicist Linda

Southwell, featured on the BBC, who talks about her latest range of work. We talk chocolate with Bob, Jenny and Meghan, the family behind the delightfully delicious offerings at The Chocolate Kitchen.

We’ve also got many of the area’s events covered in our Events section, which is compiled in conjunction with our partners at www.innorthnotts.co.uk

Made is very much your magazine and as such we are always on the look out for ideas and inspiration from our readers. If you know of someone who should feature in Made, want to

contribute or have some news or an event you’d like us to include, please get in touch. Until our next issue have a great couple of months and we’ll see you in the New Year!

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www.@madeinn.co.uk

The Team MD & Executive Editor Jon Rogers • jr@madeinn.co.uk Content Editor Steve Cawthorne • sc@madeinn.co.uk Design Manager Paul Chance • pc@madeinn.co.uk Content & Layout Manager Michelle Rogers • mr@madeinn.co.uk Advertising Manager Jackie Cawthorne • jc@madeinn.co.uk Social Media Consultant Lauren Bonser • lb@madeinn.co.uk

General Editorial Enquiries editorial@madeinn.co.uk Advertisements

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advertising@madeinn.co.uk General Email hello@madeinn.co.uk Tel 01777 712610

Publisher Createinn Ltd. Retford Enterprise Centre, Randall Way, Retford, Notts, DN22 7GR Tel 01777 712610 www.createinn.com ISSN 2515-6551 Cover photo by Jon Rogers

Made is designed and published by Createinn Ltd. All photography by Createinn Ltd unless otherwise stated.

All rights reserved; reproduction of any part of this magazine is not allowed without the written permission of the publishers. Prices are correct at the time of going to press.

While every care is taken Made and Createinn Ltd, the publishers, endeavour to ensure that all the information inside the magazine is correct, prices and details including dates are subject to change.

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Nov/Dec 17

Inside This Issue News & Events

Fashion & Beauty

06

40

The Local Roundup

Ye Olde Bell at Barnby Moor

Festival of Food and Drink, Osberton

stunning spa.

Tree of The Year nomination, the

26 31

Horse Trials and more...

14

The Mayflower Pilgrims

opens its doors to the new

44

regarding the Mayflower 400.

16

November Events

19

December Events

22

Welbeck Winter Weekend

Features Coaching for Success

Clive Boon at his salon.

52

for success.

26

by MAC and freelancer for Laura Mercier.

Food & Drink 56

finds out about her work in ceram-

into their new residence in Retford.

60

courses for the festive season.

63

vodka and soon, whisky.

64

cosy Danish style.

Sainsbury’s top ideas and recipes for Christmas.

Feature Home

Business & Leisure 68

with a gothic feel.

A Novel Idea Stephen Booth talks about inspiration

A grand residence located in Newark

38

Feast Ideas & Recipes

The Art of Hygge Emma Drohan tells us how to get

38

The Spirits of Sherwood Sherwood Forest’s home grown gin,

Home & Garden 36

An Artisan Christmas The Artisan School of Food’s

ics at the Harley Studios in Welbeck estate.

The Sweetest Things The Chocolate Kitchen welcomes us

A Personal Touch Made visits Linda Southwell and

Sarah Louise’s Top Tips Our local makeup artist, trained

An introduction to Steve Harrison’s company and his tips on coaching

A Cut Above We meet the award winning stylist

The latest details and updates

24

An Exquisite Spa Experience

News in the area including the

and his latest novel.

72

Ramble On Sally Outram takes us for a

beautiful walk in the region.

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News

News

The local roundup

Sherwood Forest’s Parliament Tree nominated for Tree of the Year The Sherwood Forest Trust is raising awareness of the Parliament Oak in Sherwood Forest to win a £1,000 tree care award to help it’s community celebrate and care for it.

To safeguard the landscape, heritage and wildlife habitats of Sherwood Forest is a primary aim at the Sherwood Forest Trust.

The most famous forest in the world is home to a large percentage of Europe’s most important ancient trees.

The most famous of these trees has to be the Major Oak, which is synonymous with the legendary tales of Robin Hood.

This tree, the centre piece of Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, is thought to be 1,000 years old, and is undoubtedly a remarkable tree, but the Parliament Oak deserves to be equally famous. At about 1,200 years old it is probably the oldest tree in the forest and has its own place in the history and folklore of Sherwood Forest.

The Parliament Oak, 1870, Sherwood Forest.

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The Parliament Oak was part of the original boundary of Clipstone Royal Hunting Park. There are three historic stories which provide some explanation as to how the tree was named the ‘Parliament Oak’.

The first relates to King John hastily calling Council with his Lords under the branches of the oak in 1212.

Another account links this oak with Edward I who was said to have called Parliament to meet at King’s Clipstone when on his way to Scotland in 1290. The Parliament took place on St Michael’s Day, although there is little to suggest that any ceremonial assembly took place beneath it’s branches.

Further reference to King John in relation to this ancient tree

News

The Parliament Oak has stood here for approximately 12 centuries watching generation after generation of our ancestors scurrying by, witnessing our history and observing as the landscape has been changed around it to suit our needs.

This remarkable tree has faced many challenges over its lifetime; disease, competition with other trees, war, industrial revolution, agricultural revolution, urbanisation, regeneration, global warming and even a mini ice age.

It is a minor miracle that this tree has survived so long, it is a true survivor, it has withstood the tests of time and for this alone it deserves great respect. If this custodian of Sherwood Forest could tell us of all it has witnessed we could learn so much about our own past, our ancestors, our heritage and our environment.

With our help this magnificent tree and others like it in the Sherwood area may be able to spend yet more years watching on as future generations live their lives around them.

The Parliament Oak, as it stands today, Sherwood Forest.

was reported in the Manor of Warsop Perambulation Document of 1816, “we proceeded thence in a direction nearly due West of Clipston Park Pales passing on the Northern side of a very ancient oak standing in these Pales call’d Parliament Oak. Under the branches of which tradition says the Ancient Barons met and brought King John to those terms which laid the Foundation of the Great Charter of our Liberties called the “Magna Charta” which history informs us was afterwards signed at Runnymeade”.

Whether or not these stories were true, the Parliament Oak certainly has importance. It survived the English Civil Wars and Commonwealth (1642 to 1661) when many of the ancient oaks in the park were felled to supply wood for the Navy and the two iron forges in the village.

Amazingly the Parliament Oak has continued to survive as its original trunk has decayed. It has managed to rejuvenate itself through a process known as ‘phoenix regeneration’ and could now live on for hundreds of years into the future; as two living branches survived although the original trunk decayed.

Made would like to thank The Sherwood Forest Trust Library for the photographs, assistance and details for this article. www.sherwoodforest.org.uk

Follow us:  /madeinnorthnotts  @madeinn_  madeinn_

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We have our signed Cook Book winner. This time on Twitter. Congratulations @Annok





Thank you so much!

That’s amazin! {Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa competition winner}



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Thank you @madeinn_ for my @StephenBooth signed copy of #DeadInTheDark

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Rosmary Shrager was an absolute hoot at The Festival of Food & Drink

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News Mark Cavendish, seen here on the

inside, makes his comeback after a tough year.

The Tour of Britain North Notts became the focus of the cycling world back in September when the Tour of Britain cycling event came through the area.

The prestigious event wound its way through towns and villages as it left Mansfield for Newark on Stage 4 of the event.

News

Crowds lined the streets to welcome the

cyclists along the 163km route, cheering

on the competitors as they took in towns

and villages including Worksop, Harworth, Bircotes, Ranskill and Retford.

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News

Rosemary Shrager

entertained the crowds with

her sense of humour and great cooking skills.

The crowds enjoyed

Andrew Smyth’s cooking demonstration.

Teresa Bovey, in action in the cookery theatre.

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THE ULTIMATE CHEESE LOVER’S PARADISE

Festival of Food and Drink The Festival of Food and Drink returned to Clumber Park in September for a successful weekend of food and fun.

There was plenty to sample, see and buy with the ‘Food and Drink’ marquee and the ‘Beautiful Things’ marquee.

The National Trust stand was present with fun and interesting things to do, crafts, clay modelling and pebble painting with the discovery team.

There were celebrity chefs in action at the cookery theatre (sponsored by Welbeck Farm Shop). They included Teresa Bovey, Phil Vickery, Jane Beedle, Andrew Smyth and Rosemary Shrager, and plenty of visitors had the opportunity to meet them in person at the book signing sessions.

WELCOME CHEESE LOVERS Our little but lovely shop is stocked with a fabulous range of artisan cheeses to tickle your taste buds and liven up your after dinner cheeseboard.

We also offer cheese and wine in the courtyard, cheese celebration cakes and outside catering!

Try some cheesy street food from our new Cheese Cave trailer. Perfect for weddings and events.

7a Dower House Square Bawtry, S. Yorks DN10 6LS 01302 376366 info@thecheesecave.co.uk www.cheesecave.co.uk  The-Bawtry-Cheese-Cave  @cheese_cave

With live music and the Street Food stalls selling flavours from around the world, even though the weather turned a little unpredictable everyone there enjoyed themselves and made the experience a great one.

MEAT

CHEESE

BEER

CHOCOLATE

PASTRIES

off your shop

With This Voucher

in association with MADE lifestyle magazine

Mon-Sat 10:00am - 5:00pm Sun 10:00am - 4:00pm www.welbeckfarmshop.co.uk 01909 478 725 Worksop, S80 3LW Valid until 23 Nov 2017, excludes Christmas deposits and orders, Accounts, Raw Milk and Ottar.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount scheme.

11

News

Anyone for squash?

Pumpkin Trail, Clumber Park Plenty of spooky fun on offer at Clumber Park throughout October. Clumber Park’s Walled Kitchen Garden stages its annual Halloween-themed pumpkin trail keeping both young and old entertained throughout the month. With a vast array of the seasonal squash grown at Clumber, the pumpkin trail is always a delight so see for all.

North Notts Business Improvement District has it’s official launch!

The new North Notts Business Improvement District (BID) has officially been launched and its team is now ready to start working across the district.

The BID team, including members of the Board, met at the BID’s new offices at West Retford Hall in September, for the launch.

Members of the BID team have been working towards the launch since the initiative was given the go ahead following a successful ballot in May. Now Sally Gillborn says they are ready to start working towards making further improvements across the area.

“Now that we have staff in place, the BID Board has been formed and we have officially commenced trading, we are all really excited about working together on an action plan so we can get stuck into making a difference to our area.” said Sally.

office at West Retford Hall. “Our leadership team of non-Exec Board directors all understand the BID’s vision and know what we need to change to go from good to great over the next five years.”

“It is an exciting time for North Notts. Businesses want to see a well-managed operation that listens to the business voice. This is a place-shaping BID to develop our area into a better place to visit, work and play so it’s an important milestone in our future.”

North Notts BID will have access to £3.2 million in funding over the next five years, which it will use to develop and implement a range of projects across the district.

For details visit BID’s new website www.northnottsbid.co.uk

“Our leadership team of non-Exec Board directors all understand the BID’s vision and know what we need to change to go from good to great over the next five years.”

The BID’s team includes 15 members and two observers who joined the newly set up Board recently and Sally has been busy recruiting members of staff including Steve Corderoy-Foster who joins as Operations and Projects Manager and Emmie SquireNorton who is the BID’s new marketing apprentice.

George Buchanan, chair of North Notts BID, said: “We are excited by our CEO and BID Board’s appointment and opening our new

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North Notts BID Chief Executive Sally Gillborn was joined by Board chair George Buchanan to launch the initiative during a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Osberton Horse Trials Osberton Estate, Worksop, welcomed the International Horse Trials and KBIS Young Horse Championships Made met the horses and riders striving to win championships, competitions and showcasing the ‘best put to the test’ at this year’s Osberton International Horse Trials.

Events included dressage, showjumping and cross country competitions among others. There were also plenty of stalls available to stock up on equestrian essentials.

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Events

The Mayflower Pilgrims Light The Way

B

assetlaw District Council has received initial support for an ambitious project that will tell the story of the region’s early Pilgrims who left the area, initially fleeing to Holland and then making the seminal journey aboard the Mayflower to Plymouth MA in 1620. A comprehensive one-year programme of events is planned to mark the 400th anniversary of the voyage in 2020.

The council and other interested groups have been working towards building a permanent central point for visitors to gather information on the history of the Pilgrims for more than ten years, and now with encouragement from Heritage Lottery Fund, the reality of a Pilgrim Roots Gallery at Bassetlaw Museum in Retford is within reach. A project, entitled Pilgrim Roots: The Separatists’ Story, will tell the inspiring tale about William Brewster, William Bradford and other influential pilgrims from Scrooby, Babworth, Austerfield and Sturton-le-Steeple.

Bassetlaw Council said the story will be told in a modern way, dispelling the myths that ‘the Pilgrim Fathers’ were all old men, and introduce the role that women and young men played and critically will address the complex issues of the effect the Separatists settling in Plymouth had on the indigenous native population.

Development funding totalling £45,000 has been awarded by Heritage Lottery to help Bassetlaw District Council progress their plans to apply for a full grant in 2018. If successful, the project will see a Pilgrim Roots Gallery being added at Bassetlaw Museum. Bassetlaw District Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Councillor Jo White said: “This is absolutely brilliant news. I am delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund recognises how important the Pilgrim Roots story is to the area. “We led this application to HLF on behalf of a number of partners as diverse as Bassetlaw Christian Heritage and University of Lincoln and this shows the passion and commitment shutterstock.com 14

Babworth Church

will host a Pilgrim’s inspired art

exhibition.

of these organisations to create a lasting legacy from the 400th anniversary in 2020.”

Back in July, this year’s Illuminate event in Retford received a boost after receiving a grant of just under £15,000. Arts Council England awarded the grant to Bassetlaw District Council to make the annual event an even bigger occasion than those held previously in 2016 and 2015. The bid was put together by Bassetlaw with support from West Lindsey District Council.

The grant has funded a series of lantern-making workshops taking place in schools in and around Retford and Worksop with professional artists who specialise in willow art, lanterns and festivals.

The lanterns are made from willow and paper and lit with LEDs and they will be designed around a Mayflower Pilgrim theme.

The lantern parade will be an important part of this year’s Illuminate, a special commemorative event that recognises the region’s important connections to the story of the Mayflower Pilgrims, some of whom came from Bassetlaw before they sailed to America nearly 400 years ago.

As part of the national Mayflower 400 partnership, Illuminate events will be taking place across the country during the third week of November, coinciding with Thanksgiving in America.

Places as far apart as Plymouth, Dartmouth, Southwark and Southampton will each stage Illuminate events. Retford’s parade will be on Tuesday, 21 November, Gainsborough’s parade takes place the following day. A parade will take place in Boston, managed by Transported, on Thursday, 24 November.

Special Illuminate church services are scheduled to take place on the same evening as the parades, in conjunction with Bassetlaw Christian Heritage. Bassetlaw District Council is a member of Mayflower 400, a partnership of 11 UK destinations, plus Leiden and USA that signed a Modern Mayflower Compact agreeing to work together in partnership towards a joint 400th commemoration of the sailing of the Mayflower in 1620.

Workshops

Join us at a lantern-making workshop with professional artists who specialise in willow art, lanterns and festivals.

Public workshops are free and all materials will be provided - anyone of any age is most welcome to attend.

Grove Street Methodist Church

Sat 11 Nov

Between 10.00am and 4.00pm

Sun 12 Nov

Between 12noon and 5.00pm.

Illuminate Tues 21 Nov 5pm Through Carolgate and around Retford Market Square

Lantern Parade • Music • Entertainment

Events

What’s on near you

Remember, remember, have fun in

N vember 21 Oct – 5 Nov Spooky Halloween Terror Trail

2 Nov Mata Hari

Rufford Abbey Country Park

1 Nov Issy’s Crafty Bees Papercraft Stamping Classes

10.30am - 4pm

The Hub, Retford

7.30pm

Explore the haunted hideaways, creepy

7pm - 9pm

The Great War: while millions of men strug-

The trail is self lead and you will be able to

fun and talented Issy Szczecinski.

woods and hidden terrors.

Weekly papercraft stamping classes run by

purchase guides from the visitor reception

There are daytime classes, evening classes

daily, £1 each, and you will receive a prize.

23 Oct – 3 Nov Creative Craft Sessions Clumber Park

and kids classes (under 7’s and 7 and over). £10 per person, per class, includes all materials, tuition and light refreshments. Book-

ing is essential to ensure all materials can be prepared. Call 07788 722099

10am - 4pm

gle and fight in the mud and hell of the

trenches, one woman’s story begs to be

told. Mata Hari, the most notorious female spy in history. Or was she?

To book call 01623 644377

2 Nov Big Cats Wildlife Talk Newark Library

Autumn-themed crafty fun for all the fam-

7.30

ily in the Discovery Centre, using leaves

2 Nov Putting The House To Bed

and other treasures from the park to create

Mr Straws House, Worksop

amazing things.

only what constitutes a ‘big cat’, but also

10am - 12am

23 Oct – 3 Nov Halloween ‘Whodunit?’ Trail

Straw’s House is closed over the winter pe-

Clumber Park 10am-5pm Come to the pleasure grounds at Clumber and try to crack the case. Halloween treats for the successful sleuths.

Ever wondered what happens when Mr riod? Come and find out.

To visit Mr Straw’s House please book in

Photo, Jeremy Perkins

This talk by Barbara Meyer will explain not where they live and the problems they face in their natural habitat. £3 per person.

Call Sue Leach 01636 681154 or Shirley Hatcher 07905 256896

to avoid disappointment. Visits are also in

small groups of four people only to help

3 Nov Martin Hughes-Games: Courting Controversy

with the conservation work at the property.

Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre

If you would like to book for more than 4

7.30pm - 10pm

advance online or by calling 01909 482380

people please call 01909 482380

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The Old Library, Mansfield

Martin is best known as one of the presenters on the BBC’s Winterwatch, Spring-

Events

watch and Autumnwatch series. An even-

5 Nov Bonfire Night!

ing talk, Q&A and book signing. His talk will take a look at how wildlife film makers produce amazing footage and discuss the

techniques used to get the shots they want.

Doors open 6.30pm. £18.95 or £21.95, re-

visit www.innorthnotts.co.uk for local fireworks displays

freshments available. Booking essential, visit www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/shop and click on the ‘Wildlife Courses & Events’ category.

10 Nov Worksop’s Got Talent 7pm - 10.15pm twitter.com/WorksopTalent

Kelham Hall, Kelham 5pm - 9pm Come along and marvel at the choreographed firework display at Kelham Hall.

Enjoy the live music, fairground rides and

traditional firework night treats! Wrap up warm.

11 Nov Make A Willow Angel Sherwood Forest Country Park 10.30am - 12.30pm, 2pm - 4pm Make a Christmas angel out of willow for

your house or garden. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. £15 per person/willow angel

4 – 7 Nov Made For The Table

Call 01623 823 202

The Harley Gallery, Welbeck 10am - 4pm The exhibition explores how contemporary silversmiths continue to be inspired to make precious handmade objects for the table.

Call 01909 501700.

11 Nov Vampires Rock - Ghost Train Majestic Theatre, Retford 7.30pm Steve Steinman has ramped up the vamp in this spectacular sequel to the phenom-

4 Nov Southwell Minster Winter Craft Fair Southwell Minster, Southwell 10.00am - 4.00pm Come and join in the fun and bustle of Southwell Minster’s famous Winter Craft

enally successful Vampires Rock.

Sat 11 Nov The Almost Christmas Craft Fair 10.30am - 3pm

11 Nov Armistice Day

ellery, mosaics, soft furnishings, clocks,

beads, wooden items and wrought iron will all catch your eye and inspire you – love-

freshments available

Re-

5 Nov Family Conservation Fun – Task Morning Sherwood Forest Country park 10 - 12.30pm Join the Sherwood Ranger Team on our

family task, tackling an area of the country park in need of a little TLC. To book call 01623 823 202 between 10am and 4pm.

in The Big Draw events across the country. moved their bodies to create large scale drawings together.

Other dates include 21 Dec

14 Nov Drop In Walks With Volunteer Rangers Clumber Park Discovery Centre 10.30am - 1.30pm Join Clumber Park’s volunteer rangers on a

guided walk around less familiar parts that reflect a diverse range of habitats.

17-24 Nov The Matchmaker By Thornton Wilder Retford Little Theatre 7.30pm Call 01777 702002

18 Nov Southwell Choral Society Concert Southwell Minster 7.30pm Mendelssohn Hymn of Praise

Tickets available from Cathedral Shop.

Call 01636 812933. From £10

Nov & Dec Sherwood Pines Park Run Sherwood Pines Forest Park 9am Every Saturday Sherwood Pines park run is a 5km circuit,

ly original handmade gifts will make that Entry £3 donation. Under 16’s free.

An exhibition showcasing work produced

Oakham Suite, Mansfield

Fair! Sixty stalls are planned. Silver jew-

Christmas list easy!

Mansfield Central Library Gallery

People of all ages made drawing tools and

North Notts Arena

4 Nov Firework Extravaganza

14 Nov The Big Draw: Living Lines Exhibition

12 Nov Remembrance Sunday Wear your poppy proudly

it’s you against the clock. Free to attend,

but please register before your first run.

Only register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode.

If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

We all run for our own enjoyment. Come

12 Nov Foster & Allen Majestic Theatre, Retford 7.30pm International recording artists Foster and Allen Golden Years Tour.

along and join in whatever your pace!

It is entirely organised by volunteers - email sherwoodpineshelpers@parkrun.com.

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Sherwood Pines Café - please come and join us!

17

Events

ILLUMINATE 2017

25 - 26 Nov Christmas Wreaths

This year’s Pilgrims Festival starts on 18

11am - 1pm, 2 - 4pm

at Babworth, followed by a range of events

natural materials. Booking essential. Call

Sherwood Forest Country Park

meet Santa. £3 per car

Nov with a Pilgrims inspired Art Exhibition

Make your own Christmas wreath using

25 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas at Lord Savile’s Kitchen

in Austerfield and Bawtry on 19 Nov; Ret-

01623 823202

Book now for a traditional three-course

Nov. A Thanksgiving Day Dinner is planned

at Spencer’s on the Square in Retford on 23

25 Nov - 7 Jan Yuletide Treasure Trail

Call 01623 821338

Nov and a concert by Doncaster Waites at

Sherwood Forest Country Park

Scrooby Village Hall on 24 Nov. The ChristStar Festival at The Grove will start on 25

on this self guided trail around the Major

11am

who complete the clues.

Forest to try and put a stop to Yuletide cel-

ford on 21 Nov; and Gainsborough on 22

Rufford Abbey Country Park Christmas lunch from £18.95 per person.

11am - 3pm every weekend

26 Nov Santa Arrives!

mas Tree Festival at St Swithun’s and the

Enjoy some of the forest’s midwinter magic

Sherwood Forest Country Park

Nov and the Christmas lights switched on

Oak path, with a sweet reward for all those

in Bawtry and Retford on 26 Nov.

Details to be confirmed, look for updates on www.innorthnotts.co.uk and local papers.

18 Nov - 23 Dec Christmas At Rufford Rufford Abbey Country Park 11am - 4pm Every Saturday and Sunday we will be

opening our extra special sparkling Christ-

mas grotto. Bring the little ones to meet Santa and his helpers and every child will receive a gift. £5 per child.

22 Nov Southwell Minster Southwell 7.30pm Chapterhouse Theatre Company present: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Adapted for the stage by Laura Turner.

Call 01636 812933

23rd Nov Thanksgiving

25 Nov - 17 Dec Santa’s Yuletide Grotto Sherwood Forest Country Park

24-27 Nov The Welbeck Winter Weekend

to save the day! Come along to cheer for Santa as he arrives at his grotto.

£5 per child including a small gift.

Southwell Minster

heart of Sherwood Forest.

7.30pm

25 Nov - 26 Nov Kelham Hall Christmas Fayre

Tickets £27.50 (under 16s to be accompa-

Kelham Hall & Country Park

Ticketmaster.co.uk/MilitaryWivesChoirs

Step into a truly atmospheric celebration of

Christmas as Kelham Hall & Country Park

nied by an adult 18+) will be available from or the Cathedral Shop, call 01636 812933

Free hot chocolate on arrival, Christmas carols, craft workshops, Christmas punch

26 Nov Retford Christmas Market & Light Switching On Ceremony

and live festive music. £2.50 per person

Retford Market Square

Santa’s Grotto (£8.00 per Child including

10am - 6pm

transforms into a festive traditional market.

gift at the Grotto).

Attractions include, Santa, craft stalls, food

26 - 27 Nov Thoresby Courtyard’s Winterfest Arts & Craft weekend

entertainment and supervised activities, Jo

Riding Hall at Thoresby Courtyard 10am - 4pm talent and creativity. The weekend will also

and drink, fun fair, classic cars, children’s Jingles, Christmas tree festival, Christmas star festival. Live music from local groups

and TRAX FM. A ‘Pilgrim’ fun run will start the proceedings.

Lighting ceremony with fireworks at 5pm.

include free family entertainment.

50+ stalls featuring artists and makers. The 20+ stalls featuring regional artisan food

11am - 4pm

Harley Pottery Studio. Free entry; free car

will be hosting a Christmas Market where

Harley Artist Studios open to the public.

ebrations – lets hope Robin Hood is around

Visit Santa in a traditional style grotto in the

25 - 26 Nov Christmas Market

Welbeck Estate

The Sheriff of Nottingham is in Sherwood

28 Nov The Military Wives - Home for Christmas Cathedral Tour 2017

11am - 4pm every weekend

Local crafters and artists exhibiting their

18

joy food and drink and even pop along and

Rufford Abbey Country Park

producers. Activities for families in The

Working alongside ‘All About Tourism’ we

parking.

you will be able to shop for unique gifts, en-

Look Out for Christmas Lights Ceremonies in Your Area visit www.innorthnotts.co.uk

Events

6 Nov - 1 Jan 2018 Winter Wonderland Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest The forest will be adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and Santa will be getting his Woodland Workshop ready with the help

of his elves. Sherwood Forest also has lots of festive activities for families on short breaks up until the New Year. Create your own Christmas decorations in the Pottery Painting Studio or create your

own giant Christmas stocking. There are festive carriage rides for families to clip clop through the winding forest paths and also a festive treasure trail, looking at clues and uncovering the secret code.

There are also lots of little touches which make breaks that little bit

more special like logs for a roaring fire on a frosty afternoon, Christ-

mas trees to order to decorate together in your lodge and firework displays over the lake.

To book Winter Wonderland breaks visit www.centerparcs.co.uk

Photo, Centre Parcs.

Have yourself a merry little

December 2 -17 Dec Christmas At Clumber

3 Dec Family Conservation Fun

8 Dec - 3 Jan 2018 Beauty & The Beast

Clumber Park

Sherwood Forest Country Park

Palace Theatre Newark

10am - 4pm Weekends only

11.30am - 1pm, 2pm - 4pm

Clumber will come alive with the spirit of

Join in the ancient custom of Tree Dress-

Family panto with spectacular set and cos-

perfect place for all the family. Visit Father

hang on a tree, with winter tales and music

Christmas throughout December making a

Christmas’ house (booking required) and celebrate traditions old and new.

ing in the forest. Make a tree decoration to from Pilgrims and Posies. The visitor centre lights switch on will take place at 4.15pm.

2 Dec – 7 Jan 2018 Jack & The Beanstalk

3 Dec Advent Procession

Mansfield Palace Theatre

Southwell Minster

Family panto starring Mark Little from Neigh-

6.30pm

Adam Moss and Craig Ansell.

darkness into light in an atmospheric pro-

bours, Rebecca Wheatley from Casualty,

Southwell Cathedral Choir leads us from

Call 01623 633133

cession of words and music to begin the season of Advent. All welcome!

tumes, songs and dances, bags of slapstick fun and starring Jonathan Wrather (Emmerdale’s Pierce Harris!).

8 Dec Southwell Racecourse Christmas Party Night Southwell Race Course Parties over 20 - organiser goes free

10% discount on all pre-paid wine and bottle buckets. Free admission for 29 Dec fix-

ture, DJ, table magician and party games 3 course meal and reception drink

£34 Per person. Call 01636 814481

19

Events

The Ramblers Annual Festival of Winter Walks The Ramblers Annual Festival of Winter

Walks runs from mid December to mid January.

They have a campaign called Pathwatch to help maintain and protect the pathways for everyone to enjoy, and more importantly so

that we don’t lose those well trodden paths for the next generation of ramblers.

Visit www.ramblers.org.uk to find walks near you this winter.

9 Dec Cantamus Girls Choir Heralding Christmas Concert

Paws. All proceeds donated to Jerry Green

are limited and must be purchased in ad-

7.30pm

10 Dec Christingle Service

A variety of Christmas music performed by

Southwell Minster

16 - 17 Dec Santa Punch & Judy with Professor Paul Temple

Southwell Minster

Dog Rescue. £2 donation per dog.

vance. Call 01623 823202

5pm

Rufford Abbey Country Park

Director Ann Irons.

Join us at our Christingle celebration so

12pm - 3pm

9 - 10 Dec Family Christmas Crafts

All welcome. Christingle has been bringing

and Judy show with ever popular children’s

Cantamus Girls’ Choir and Training Choir.

Rufford Seminar Room, Rufford Abbey Country Park 11am - 3pm Get in the festive mood and keep the youngsters busy with our drop in make-it

sessions. Materials supplied. Willow Christmas wreaths, willow Christmas trees, or maybe reindeers. £5 per item made. Buy your ticket at the gift shop on the day.

we can help to support vulnerable children.

A special outdoor Christmas theme Punch

hope to thousands of children and young

entertainer Paul Temple.

people for the past 48 years, providing vital

support to The Children’s Society’s work.

To find out more about the work of The Chil-

dren’s Society, visit www.christingle.org/ listening

14 Dec Southwell Minster Choir Association presents: G. F. Handel’s Messiah Southwell Minster

9 Dec Handmade Theatre Presents: The Twelve Birds of Christmas

7.30pm

Mansfield Library

www.southwellminster.org

Tickets from £8.00, call 01636 812933 or email: cathedralshop@hotmail.co.uk

A little close up magic and balloon modelling adds to the fun.

17 Dec Gentlemen’s Day Afternoon Jump Racing Southwell race course, Rolleston 10:25am Join us for Gentlemen’s Day 2017, which

will feature jumps racing, real ale, live music

plus more in the heart of rural Nottinghamshire. Available seven days prior to fixture.

Premium raceday pricing.

12pm Family festive show, fun facts, stories,

15 - 17 Dec Sparkling Sherwood

person.

Sherwood Forest Country Park

songs and puppets (ages 3-9). £4.50 per

6pm, 6.15pm, 6.30pm, 6.45pm, 7pm

9 – 10 Dec Dog Grotto

Timed entry tickets (£3.00 booking fee)

Sherwood Forest Country Park

new light – a truly magical start to winter.

11am – 12.30pm, 2-3pm Bring your canine companions to visit Santa

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See Sherwood ancient oak trees in a whole

The walk route is approximately one mile.

Festive music in the Visitor Centre. Tickets

21 Dec Winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere will be at 4.28pm

Events

24 Dec Christmas Eve Walk Sherwood Forest Country Park 11am – 12.30pm Escape the hustle and bustle of high street shopping and enjoy a gentle stroll with a

ranger through the ancient glades of Sherwood, looking for winter wildlife and discovering more about this legendary forest.

Booking essential, call 01623 823202. £3 adults, £1.50 children

25 Dec Christmas Day We hope you have a lovely Christmas and don’t forget the Queen’s speech!

Photo, Mike Arney

Santa’s letters Dear boys and girls,

26 Dec Boxing Day Walk Sherwood Forest Country Park 11.30am - 1pm Overdone it over the festive period? This

is your chance to breathe in some fresh air

and get your legs working again! Booking advised, call 01623 823 202 £3 adults, £1.50 children

26 Dec – 28 Jan Fairy Tale Quest Clumber Park 10am - 4pm A self-guided trail around the pleasure grounds at Clumber for children and their grown-ups to spark the imagination.

30 Dec - 3 Jan Beauty & The Beast Majestic Theatre. Retford This Christmas join Celebrity Big Brother

Winner, MMA Fighter and star of Hollyoaks Alex Reid and Eastender’s Lucy Beale, Melissa Suffield, in this year’s magical pantomime Beauty and the Beast.

Christmas is a very exciting but busy time for me: the elves are making toys, the reindeer are practising their sleigh runs, and I’m busy preparing my list of who’s been good this year.

I need to let the elves know what to make so to help me out, please let me know what you would like as early as possible.

I will be getting my sleigh ready for the long journey on Christmas Eve and in between I will try to reply to as many of you as possible. To make sure I receive your letters, please could you send them to:

Santa/Father Christmas,

Santa’s Grotto,

Reindeerland,

XM4 5HQ It’s really important you write Santa’s address carefully on a stamped envelope.

Please be sure that you include your full name and address in your letter so I can write back to you.

Please send your letters to me by Friday 9 December so I have time to reply.

Looking forward to delivering your presents on Christmas Eve. Make sure you remember my mince pie and Rudolph’s carrot!

Merry Christmas to you all!

Father Christmas

www.royalmail.com/letters-to-santa

For the last posting dates for Christmas, for the UK and for overseas services please visit www.royalmail.com

If you have an event you’d like to share for the next issue of Made please email: hello@madeinn.co.uk we’d love to hear from you.

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

21

Events

Welbeck Winter Weekend Has It Made More than 100 artisan makers will be showcasing their wares at the Welbeck Winter Weekend, on the 24-26 November

W

onderful handmade art and food from across the region will be celebrated at the three day event on 24-26 November taking place in the newly landscaped Courtyard, Harley Gallery, Welbeck Farm Shop, Harley Studios and the Victorian Kitchen Gardens.

The Harley Gallery has carefully curated a selection of 55 artists and craftspeople including some long-standing favourites along with 18 new exhibitors. Ceramics, jewellery, metalwork, textiles, 2D art, wood and glass pieces make up an eclectic mix of beautifully crafted items on offer.

On the food side of things, Welbeck Farm Shop has selected 30 artisan stalls offering items from local producers from cheeses and chutneys to sweets and sloe gin. As well as food to take away, the baking diploma students from the The School of Artisan Food will be selling wood-fired pizzas, handmade in the purpose built oven.

The school will also be running children’s sessions each day where kids can get stuck in with baking and decorating. Bookable on the day, the morning and afternoon workshops run for around 30-45 mins at £1 per child.

22

There’s also the chance to win a Christmas prize. The overall winner will get a beautiful six-foot Christmas tree, professionally decorated in their home with their choice of colour scheme courtesy of the Dukeries Garden Centre; ingredients for a traditional turkey Christmas Dinner for six people from the Welbeck Farm Shop, and vouchers for Christmas presents from The Harley Gallery. Tickets will go on sale on the 6 November and will be available from Harley Gallery, Portland Collection, Welbeck Farm Shop and the Dukeries Garden Centre, at £2 each. The winners will be drawn early December.

There is also the chance to visit 15 artists’ studios based permanently on the estate and meet the makers. Not normally open to the public, this is a unique opportunity to find out more from the artists and craftspeople working in the Harley Studios, from ceramicists and textile designers to florists and jewellers.

See resident ceramicist Linda Southwell on p26.

For those looking to paint their own Christmas gifts and decorations, The Harley Pottery Studio will be running sessions to create personalised pieces of pottery. To top off the fun, there’s also the chance to see Santa at the neighbouring Dukeries Garden Centre.

The students from The Artisan School of Food will be firing up the pizza oven.

GIFT A FOOD EXPERIENCE THEY WON’T FORGET Plenty of stalls will be present with items such as the jewellery by Ashi Marwaha, pictured opposite, top left.

Whether you’re after a special gift for a food lover or looking to introduce someone to new skills in artisan food, our gift vouchers and courses make great presents for any occasion.

Based on the beautiful Welbeck Estate, North Nottinghamshire, The School of Artisan Food is a registered charity dedicated to teaching skills in all aspects of sustainable and artisan food production.  @artisanschool  artisanschool  schoolofartisanfood  www.schoolofartisanfood.org  01909 532 171  info@schoolofartisanfood.org BAKING | BREWING & DRINKS | BUTCHERY | CHEESEMAKING | CHOCOLATE CURING & SMOKING | COOKING | FOOD BUSINESS START-UPS | ICE CREAM PATISSERIE | PRESERVES, PICKLES & CHUTNEYS

The Welbeck Winter Weekend is free to enter and free to park.

Opening at 10am each day, the event runs until 5pm on the Friday and Saturday, and closes at 4pm on the Sunday.

For more information, visit www.welbeck.co.uk

MADE MADE FOR FOR THE THE TABLE TABLE The Goldsmiths’ The Goldsmiths’ CompanyCompany Silver Collection Silver Collection

4 November 2017 – 2018 7 January 2018 4 November 2017 – 7 January

Stichelton Dairy Cheese, made on site, will be available to try and buy.

Free entry Free Visit entry us at Welbeck harleygallery.co.uk harleygallery.co.uk

‘Embrace’ Bowl, 2011, by Anna Lorenz.

‘Embrace’ Bowl, 2011,

by Anna Lorenz.

Collection: The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths Collection: The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths

In focus

Coaching For Success Steve Harrison, The Coaching Company

Welcome to the first in a series of columns I’ll be writing for Made on the subject of performance, coaching and success at work. My intention over the coming months is to bring a series of insights, challenges, stories and perhaps to provoke some thought around performance at work.

I

have been running my own coaching business for 20 years now, working primarily in the corporate arena with teams at all levels. I enjoy nothing more than working in an environment that allows me to help others make changes - sometimes simple, fundamental tweaks to how they work - that can signal dramatic shifts in productivity and workplace application. I’m excited by the idea of helping organisations become more successful and at the same time enabling the people within them, at all levels, to have more fulfilled roles. I have also coached at elite level in sport and worked as a leader in corporate life too, but more about that later.

So, to start things off, lets take a closer look at leadership in organisations – it’s our leaders who drive the culture that creates the foundations on which to build for future success.

I’ve experienced both ends of the spectrum here; brilliant leaders who have inspired me to achieve loads and frankly shocking leaders who have completely stunted my ‘will’ to contribute and give my best!

24

Business

What do you really want to achieve in your role?

What’s getting in your way?

I’m convinced there’s so much potential in people and most of the time we only access a fraction of it. The key is to be able to find a way to tap into this often ‘hidden’ potential in a way that can ultimately bring about remarkable results.

Now, time for a quick Q&A. Whether you hold a position as a leader/manager, head up a business or have a senior role, basically whatever role you have in your world of work, have a go at honestly answering the following questions: • How much of your existing potential to contribute, achieve and make a difference are you bringing to work?

• What would you like to change so that you can increase this?

• How fulfilled are you in your work?

• What is holding you back and getting in the way?

• What could you change?

So, do we as individuals, the people and so-called teams in our businesses, operate at the level of our potential? Rarely, I would suggest and therefore are we unwittingly tolerating under performance? Perhaps that sounds harsh. We might all be working hard, but are we working effectively? How often do we ask ourselves: “Why am I doing what I’m doing?”, “What do I really want to achieve in my role?” or “What’s getting in my way?” In most high-performance arenas such as the world of sport and performing arts, players constantly strive for excellence; to be the best they can be. To do this they work with coaches that make a difference, including the elite, high performers!

Be it sport or business, we’re in the performance game. The need to win and to perform is common to both, as is competition. Competition drives the need to constantly raise the bar, to change, to innovate and to find the extra performance edge. We can bring some lessons from sport into our business world. The key ingredients or attributes of high performance are generic to whatever discipline, whether it be sport, business or performing.

In the workshops I run with athletes or with people in business, I’ll often ask the question: “What is present when you perform at your best?” It’s a question that really gets people thinking and in my sessions the answers are written down on flipcharts, with people coming forward with a variety of words that reflect what they have or need to perform to their full potential. Perhaps you could try the same exercise? Just take say three minutes to write as many words as possible.

Go for quantity over quality and see what you come up with.

Two interesting things emerge from this exercise: 1. The attributes necessary for high performance in athletes and people in business are the same! 2. Usually about 80% of the words are about attitude or mind state and emotions. 3. We can create a simple performance formula as follows: High Performance = Goals + Ability + Mind State Goals: Meaningful direction, definition of success.

Ability: Skills, knowledge, experience.

Mind State: Drive, desire, determination, courage, belief, excitement (and many more).

Whatever your role in work, we can use this formula on ourselves. Try asking yourself a few key questions: • My Goals/Objectives: Are my goals/objectives really defining what success is for me? Are they relevant and worthwhile?

Are they positively challenging? Do they create sufficient focus? Do I turn up to work to achieve things or do I sometimes just turn up and function without really achieving things?

• My Ability: Do I have the appropriate skills and knowledge to be successful in my role and achieve my goals? Where do I feel strong and where do I need to sharpen my skills?

• My Mind State: How am I feeling in my role? Are the attitudes and emotions I feel at work ‘performance enabling’ (excited, positively challenged, keen, stimulated, confident, wanting to). Do I hold any performance disabling attitudes? (anger, fear, anxiety, worry, low confidence, boredom) Hopefully your answers might at least raise your awareness and perhaps get you to consider what you might do about it.

At The Coaching Company, our coaching approach is about change, progress and helping people and teams to be the best they can. It’s all about the player and working with their existing skills, depth of knowledge to help them develop ‘winning’ attitudes - then make progress. Effective coaching puts people at the heart of the whole process, so they take responsibility for their own performance. We’re not teachers or advisors! Coaches can’t tell you what you should or shouldn’t do, nor will we solve your performance or business problems for you. We work with people to develop the capacity to do it themselves! www.coachingcompany.co.uk

CoachSteveH 25

Home & Garden

A Personal Touch In the heart of the Dukeries, the Welbeck Estate gives way to a small collection of artists’ studios, the Harley Studios, nestled behind the gallery itself and hidden within the walls of the estate’s old kitchen garden. Here we are greeted with a smile and a cuppa, by resident ceramicist Linda Southwell.

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Home

M

aking ceramics can be a very tricky business.

The whole process can be extremely time-consuming, intricate and there are plenty of factors that can lead to the finished product being, well, not quite finished.

For Linda Southwell however, pushing the difficulty level up a notch or two is all part of the creative process and, she believes, makes the completion of each piece much more satisfying. Continually working on her skills and creativity, she has never been one for letting difficult and time-consuming projects get in the way of her producing something she is passionate about.

Linda Southwell in her studio on the Welbeck Estate.

Opposite: One of the sculptures inspired by nature and garden favourites such as echinops, teasels and fennel.

Linda’s been creating works of art from clay for more than twenty years and gained well deserved recognition in the ceramics world; you may have seen her hand built porcelain tea set used as an example for one of the challenges on the BBC’s first series of the Great Pottery Throw Down.

From smoke fired hand built pieces to more sculptural designs, Linda has worked on a number of different themes throughout her career. Today she is heavily influenced by the environment around her and, as a keen gardener herself, gains inspiration from her own garden and the grounds of Renishaw Hall in Derbyshire, which she visits regularly.

These plants and flowers have gone on to inspire Linda’s intricate ceramic creations that have defined her as an artist.

“I love gardening and started looking at lots of quirky plants, species that thrive in different spaces and environments,” she says.

Dotted around the new studio, which Linda moved into in October last year, are many beautifully designed, crafted and finished pieces that are simply breathtaking. Here Linda has been busy developing her skills, driven daily to search out new designs, ideas and different ways of working.

“I love gardening and started looking at lots of quirky plants, species that thrive in different spaces and environments, ” These delicate ceramic works of art are the result of lengthy experiments, carefully developing ideas that often start off as abstract designs and thoughts, resulting in beautifully finished sculptures. Perfecting the process has been a

Linda graduated from Anglia Polytechnic with a degree in Art and English, she attended pottery evening classes and her love for ceramics grew. Volunteering to help at the local pottery studio in Oxford she developed her skills over four years before deciding to work in a more focused ceramics career.

“It was the volunteering work that really started my interest in ceramics off,” says Linda. “I helped run the space and really enjoyed what I was doing. When I left they even gave me a kiln – that was about twenty years ago and I’m still using it.”

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Home

Linda’s husband Andrew and her family are very supportive, her children often come into the studio to see what their mum is currently working on.

“My children love what I do. They see me making something and they want to get involved, which is great fun.”

labour of love, choosing to put in endless hours to source solutions that perfect her creations.

“I knew this type of work would be difficult, not just to create and market, but also be an incredibly hard procedure to create a perfectly finished design – it’s very time consuming. The difficulties lie in keeping the clay in the right state, too dry or too wet and it’s unworkable.

There are so many things that can go wrong, particularly during the drying process before firing.”

Linda uses a combination of techniques that include ‘pinching’, ‘coiling’ and ‘slab building’, working with porcelain mainly, and loves the whole process, also adding oxides to the clay, to achieve these unique coloured pieces. Choosing to use as few tools as possible, these processes take time to complete, especially when each petal is made and attached individually.

“I feel I need to be in touch with the clay as much as possible. I know, in the end, that each leaf bears my thumbprint.”

The results are wonderful, with each piece as beautifully unique as the next.

Unglazed, these completed pieces create a wonderful, matt finish that look both elegant and dramatic.

“I knew this type of work would be difficult not just to create and market but also be an incredibly hard procedure to create a perfectly finished design – it’s very time consuming.”

The studio in Welbeck Estate, is a space that allows Linda to not only work undistracted but it is also a place that continues to inspire many of her creations, she tells us. “It’s given me the chance to take things a lot more seriously, to look at not just creating work but also how I market it and tell people about it. It’s also allowed me to set long-term goals and look at exactly what I want to achieve.”

Linda adds oxides to the clay that change into vibrant hues once fired to make these unique and beautifully coloured petals.

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Linda’s main plans for the year ahead are to display her pieces at various shows across the country and to continue her ever popular classes and workshop events, details of which are updated regularly on her website. www.lindasouthwell.co.uk

Home

Ceramics workshops There are a variety of workshops available throughout the year from evening classes to ‘one-off’ pottery experiences. Please see Linda’s website www.lindasouthwell.co.uk for details and booking.

Christmas Ceramics

Evening Classes

Potter’s Wheel Experience

Christmas Decorations Workshop 10am – 4pm, 18 Nov

Ten Week Pottery Evening Class 7pm - 9pm, Wednesdays £150 Per person

Booked Individually 10am - 1pm £75 Per person

Learn how to make Christmas baubles, tree decorations and gift tags in this one day workshop. Every year when you unpack the decorations your family will experience the joy of using decorations you have created yourself. Or be generous and give them as gifts to your loved ones.

This class is suitable for beginners and also those with experience of working with clay. Taught from the Harley Ceramics Studio on the Welbeck Estate.

The studio has excellent facilities and is a relaxing and inspiring place to tap into your creativity. Surrounded by a permanent collection that was once based at Rufford Abbey you will be able to look at pottery made by some of Britain’s best potters. We will cover a wide variety of making methods from slab building, pinch pots and coiling to moulds and wheel throwing. There are also a couple of optional weeks where to develop personal ideas further.

Includes refreshments, all materials, and firing of up to three pots in white glaze.

£65 Per person

Working in Linda’s studio, you will use porcelain and a variety of making methods to create these unique decorations.

No previous pottery experience is required and all materials are included.

Have you always wanted to try making a pot on a potter’s wheel? Maybe you have a friend or family member who has and you’re looking for a special gift experience for them? Here is the perfect experience for you. Learn the basics of throwing on an electric potter’s wheel.

With expert one-to-one tuition you will be introduced to the wheel with a demonstration and careful explanation of the different stages of making. You will then try the wheel at your own pace with as much or as little guidance as you like.

You can see Linda’s work at the Open Studios, Welbeck Winter Weekend, The Harley Courtyard and Studios.

24 - 26 Nov 2017.

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Made by

Clever dĂŠcor At DĂŠcor Clever we continually add to our inspirational range to offer the best choice. Our latest additions offer great quality and on-trend colours.

Our new range from Frama includes striking copper light shades. Their smooth surfaces play with light, creating effects that add texture and colour. These shades come as cones, cylinders and pendants, providing a choice of shapes to suit your environment.

Meanwhile NLXL have some truly inspired designs including marble wallpapers in light and dark copper shades. The marble effect is layered over a variety of designs including mosaic, brick and tile.

what can we make for you?

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Home

Copper shades by Frama NLXL metallic wallpapers

by Bethan Gray NLXL crack wallpaper

by Nacho Carbonell

Wall to wall beautiful 15% off online NLXL SCRAPWOOD PAPERS with code NLXLSW15

20% off online MIND THE GAP WALLPAPER, LIGHTING & WALL ART with code MTG20

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Dreaming of a white Christmas

Made’s choice of decorations to inspire a white Christmas, even if there’s not a flake Frosted glass white bauble with glitter stripes £1.50 www.wilko.com

of snow in sight.

White Hydrangea, Eucalyptus and berry door wreath £55 www.notonthehighstreet.com

Clear snowflake bauble £6 www.notonthehighstreet.com

White cardboard leaf wreath £37 www.notonthehighstreet.com

Frosted clear drop bauble £3 www.wilko.com

Traditional Christmas rose wreath £37 www.notonthehighstreet.com Opposite page, white snowberry Christmas wreath £44 www.notonthehighstreet.com

Embellished white bauble £6 www.notonthehighstreet.com Background image courtesy of Wilko. www.wilko.com

Home & Garden

Naturally Festive

Traditional Christmas wreath ÂŁ55 34 www.silkparade.co.uk

Home

We’re loving the more traditional look. Large vintage style glass baubles, natural colours and soft touches; all we need is a cosy fire to warm our feet.

Beautiful living Baby Blue Christmas tree. This pot grown tree is a specially selected long lasting variety.

It comes with a cool grey zinc bucket for indoor and outdoor use. It can be re-potted and used again indoors the following year or planted out in the garden.

Available at Sainsbury’s.

Giant antique glass baubles www.notonthehighstreet.com £26.95

Vintage style green bauble £6 www.notonthehighstreet.com

Traditional orange wreath £20 www.silkparade.co.uk

Tinted green bauble £6 www.notonthehighstreet.com

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Home & Garden

Photo: Alisa Anton. Unsplash

The Art Of Hygge Interior design expert, Emma Drohan, tells us how to cosy up Danish style.

T

he nights are drawing in and winter is on its way. It’s that time of year when your perfect evening in is lighting a fire and cosying up under a blanket with a steaming mug of hot chocolate. The Danes seem to do this rather well – they call it the art of Hygge.

“A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being” (Oxford English Dictionary definition).

Maybe it’s the long, cold, dark winters that can be so depressing, yet, if looked at in the right way, they are a perfect excuse for relaxing and taking time to enjoy the simple pleasures of your own company or a coffee with friends. In a world that is fast and stressful it is vital to take the time to relax and enjoy life’s pleasurable details.

Hygge – pronounced ‘hoo-ga’ or ‘huegah’ – is originally a Norwegian term for wellbeing. The Danes embraced it as a way of living in the 18th Century and the concept is more about a feeling or mood than physical attributes. Hygge can be present all year round but it is during the winter months that it becomes far more necessary and enjoyable. I think the proof is in the Hygge pudding that, despite the bleak winters with very little daylight, the Danes remain the world’s happiest people.

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Personally, I feel that creating Hygge in your home is an experience that should be thoroughly enjoyed! Choosing luxurious faux fur throws; soft, feather-filled cushions; filling the log basket and making yourself a freshly brewed coffee in a beautiful mug – I couldn’t think of anything nicer! The Hygge lifestyle is one that can be easily embraced throughout

your home or just simply in a small corner where you can relax and recharge.

“A Hygge interior is as much about the feel as the look, so mix and match your soft accessories to add a variety of textures.” (Maik Wiking, author of The Little Book of Hygge).

Visit: www.emmadrohan.com to see more of Emma’s inspirations and blog.

Here are my top tips for creating a little Hygge in your home: Keep it simple: The Hygge ideal is to create a calm, serene space that is free of clutter. Colours are often monochrome or a harmonious mix of tonal elements. The minimalist look is softened by the use of a mix of materials and textures - especially by using warm, natural materials such as leather, wood and wool. Good storage is essential in creating an uncluttered environment.

Light a few candles: Denmark and other Scandinavian countries are rumoured to be the largest consumers of candles in the world per capita. The lighting of a candle is one of the easiest and essential Hygge aspects that can be achieved.

Candlelight transforms even the bleakest rooms into a warm and inviting space.

Candles can be scented or unscented but if going for the scented option then choose from natural aromas such as brewed tea, fresh mint or rose petals.

Add texture: The addition of faux fur throws, chunky woollen cushions and soft lambswool blankets all help to create a place where Hygge can be enjoyed.

Set against woven willow baskets and natural textures of wood grain and linen, this contrast of texture appeals to the senses and inspires a feeling of safety and calm. Textured accessories are on trend for this season and the layering of these different elements, combined with a roaring fire and soft lighting, create a true feeling of Hygge.

Enjoy your space: The key element of Hygge is to simply take time to enjoy your environment. Creating spaces within your home to make a sanctuary from the stresses and strains of everyday life and filing these spaces with items of comfort and objects of joy. Enjoy these spaces on your own or with friends and family to create true Hygge.

DESIGNER HOME

AVAILABLE FROM

See the new Neff venting hob Now on display

let us inspire you KITCHENS BATHROOMS BEDROOMS HEATING

With over 30 years in Retford we pride ourselves on our service whether it be supply only or full installation. Let us inspire you with our free design and quotation service.

www.houseproudretford.co.uk

Opening Times

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Monday - Friday

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8.00am - 5.00pm

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Saturday

Retford

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Notts, DN22 7WF

01777 707252

Home & Garden

A Grand Residence

38

Home & Garden

T

his issue’s feature property is Manor Court, situated in a conservation area in the tranquil village of Thorpe, home of Saint Laurence’s Church, near Newark.

Location Manor Court Thorpe, Newark, Nottinghamshire Ground floor Reception hall, study, dining room, drawing room, cloakroom/wc, breakfast kitchen, sitting room, laundry, shower room First floor Master bedroom suite with bathroom Guest bedroom with en-suite 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom Second floor Guest bedroom suite with roll top bath, enclosed vanity with wash hand basin and separate wc.

Property price: ÂŁ1,000,000 For more details about this stunning property or to view (by appointment only), please call 01159 505 444 or visit www.humberts.com

Manor Court is a superb recreation of a gothic manor house

combining traditional and reclaimed materials with modern reproductions, providing a unique home of tremendous character. The property features impressive gothic archways from the moment you step up to the solid wooden front door. A combination of polished limestone, marble and oak create an air of elegance and complement the gothic features. The reception hall hosts twin reclaimed pine arched entrance doors and a sweeping staircase with ornate railings rising to a galleried landing.

The kitchen is home to beautiful grey ornate handcrafted

iroko hardwood cabinets with white marble surfaces. Deeper within the property you can find extravagant fireplaces that the owners have carefully reclaimed or reproduced, and mullioned windows with leaded casements augment the gothic influence throughout. There are plenty of rooms to explore including four main reception rooms, all decorated in delicate hues with plenty of light flooding in through the leaded windows. The owners have taken care to perfectly style the bedrooms in more muted colours, whites and pale pinks and blues for a relaxing and calming feel but still in keeping with the gothic styles. From the first floor landing a staircase rises with metal railings to a spectacular bedroom suite decorated in purple and gold, in contrast to the other rooms, creating a warm and luxurious feel with the feature of this room being a gold and white roll top bath.

The gardens and grounds have been attractively landscaped

and at the rear a suntrap raised terrace, perfect for sitting out in an afternoon in the summer.

A large timber barn conceals the property from the roadside and we think this perfectly hidden gothic Manor is definitely not one to be missed.

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Beauty

An Exquisite Spa Experience 40

Health & Beauty

Made visits Ye Olde Bell in Barnby Moor to find out more about the first class Spa experience and discovers invigoration, pampering perfection and a little time for relaxation too.

A

n impressive double storey vaulted ceiling greets you as you enter; specially commissioned and hand crafted by a local carpenter, it sets the mood of open spaces and the clearing of the mind; a feeling echoed throughout your spa voyage.

From its impressive open-plan reception to the beautiful outdoor pool and relaxation area, Ye Olde Bell Hotel’s brand new spa is a magnificent blend of beauty and style.

Built alongside the main four-star hotel, the multimillion pound spa provides the most relaxing atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in an environment that indulges both the body and mind.

The spa’s conception has been bubbling away for many years, coming to fruition with the first guests walking through its doors on June 1 this year. The driving force behind the new buildings are spa directors Sadie Ardron-Levack and Lizzie Bath. Their experience, research and dedication, has created a truly unique spa experience, including a world first, all leading to their ‘five bubble’ rating (the official spa equivalent to a five-star rating) from day one. “We always knew that we wanted it, and needed it, to be a five star spa,” says Sadie. “Partly because it needs to complement the hotel and be as good as the hotel.”

Both say they are thrilled to be working at such a beautiful spa and are proud of what has been achieved.

The refined architectural detail is seen throughout, highlighting the standard seen across the spa from its refined treatment rooms and facilities to its excellent level of customer service.

On hand are spa butlers, who enhance the visitor experience with ongoing help and advice and all staff throughout, including reception and treatment providers, are highly informed to the spa’s exacting standards.

“The staff for us are the key,” explains Sadie. “You can build a fabulous facility but it’s the staff that are now the people who are selling it. They’re the people on the phone, the people who are serving the food, the people who are looking after everybody, and they have always had fabulous feedback from people. We have a lovely group of people here.”

The spa has been very careful to create fun, exciting and memorable experiences for its guests, with a range of special packages and treatments including ‘spa day’ packages, morning and afternoon tea treats, the ‘twilight spa’ and beauty treatments; along with ‘The Hair Boutique and Express Beauty Bar services.

Other popular packages include the ‘mini meet up’, which is a half-day spa, two course lunch and a 30 minute treatment.

It’s about creating variety and options, and Sadie and Lizzie have been keen to ensure what they offer caters for very different tastes and experience levels.

Much of the spa’s interior was designed by Hilary Levack and Tonia Wynne, who also designed the hotel and further inspiration comes from Sadie and Lizzie’s experiences and tastes, along with memories of overseas holidays and visiting spas around the country.

Sadie and Lizzie’s holiday visits to the ski resort of Zermatt are the inspiration for ski chalets in the pool area for example and the Sabbia Med light therapy room is designed around memories of the south of France.

Specially commissioned for the spa and a unique experience for visitors, is the ‘snow storm’; a heat-to-heat experience with an ice blast in the middle – perfect for those with muscle injuries.

“The snowstorm is great,” says Lizzie.

“You come out of the hot experience through a tunnel to the snowstorm where you can experience either a gentle snow shower or press a second button which increases the wind and ice on your body. You then walk through this to the super hot sauna at the end – perfect.”

While customer service remains a priority, talking on board feedback and acting on comments from visitors is also an area the spa is passionate about.

“We’ve had some fabulous feedback from people and we’ve made changes such as adding more drinks and snacks, we’ve got different sized flip-flops for example, hooks on the back of showers,” says Sadie.

“We’ve had some lovely people who have visited, who have given us some lovely feedback and its nice to see other people enjoying themselves.”

For more information on Ye Olde Bell Hotel’s brand new spa visit their website www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

41

Health & Beauty

Ye Olde Bell Spa experience Relaxation Spaces. The welcome lounge, poolside, the rattan apple, the alpine chalets or the heated loungers.

Enjoy the two post-treatment relaxation rooms in our therapy area; one quiet and dark and one light and airy.

Stonebath™. The less intense of the two steam rooms. The steam, released as mineral coals, hits the water creating a slightly humid atmosphere, good for breathing, flushes toxins out and increases blood flow to your muscles.

Feeling peckish? Visit the Herb Garden Brasserie. Choose from a selection of balanced, healthy and wholesome choice of dishes from the brasserie, or opt for something a little more indulgent.

Refresh yourself with a herbal infusion tea, rehydrating juice or pop a bottle of fizz.

Snow storm walk. Choose a snow shower walk or be brave and select snowstorm! Cold experiences help boost the immune system and eliminate toxins, improving the appearance of cellulite and speeding up muscle recovery.

Herbal Laconium. A natural infusion of herbs with periodic bursts of gentle steam. A starting point to warm the body through, clear the mind and relax muscles prior to using other experiences.

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Alpine Sauna. The hottest of experiences. A traditional sauna constructed of Swiss Stone Pine that has a distinct pine essence for a positive effect on well-being as it aids relaxation and sleep.

The heat aids circulation, improves joints, flushes out toxins and opens pores.

Health & Beauty

Shower walk & bucket shower.

A walk through shower experience.

These showers vary in temperature, alternating between warm and cold, stimulating senses, circulation and state of mind! To finish, the cold bucket shower. It’s self-activated and only for the brave!

Salt inhalation room. A silent relaxation room with low level lighting; a space for quiet time to relax and reflect.

The salt wall simulates a marine climate which can aid respiratory problems, sinuses and allergies.

Steam bath. A classic spa experience with warm temperatures and high humidity. This experience is great for increasing your metabolism and strengthening the immune system.

Vitality Pool. Our Indoor/Outdoor Vitality Pool is 10m long and 1.2m deep. Truly relaxing and packed with features; indoor and outdoor air recliners, a mini air tub, a reflexology station, water massage jets and a water curtain.

Sabbia Med. Deeply relaxing, uplifting and fun, this therapy replicates sunrise to sunset in a 30 minute cycle. Low levels of UV are emitted to release Vitamin D whilst specialised lamps are used to alleviate SAD. Additional fee for this experience; please enquire when you book.

Rasul. A treatment that takes place in a private temple under the stars. Mineral mud and scrub and then relax in a private space and let the steam room cycle begin. Additional fee for this experience; please enquire when you book.

Stay, spa, dine & celebrate with us…

Join us for a few hours for a Festive Lunch, Party Night, Christmas Day Lunch, New Year’s Eve Black Tie Ball, Murder Mystery Dinner, Christmas Pantomime and more…

Fabulous Christmas or New Year ‘Escapes’ too for one night or a few?

The choice is yours – our breaks are fully flexible to suit you!

Call now for our Christmas brochure

Barnby Moor, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 8QS 01777 705121

enquiries@yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk 43

Beauty

A Cut Above You could say Clive Boon was destined to become a hairdresser.

His grandfather, father and uncle were all hairdressers and Clive continues the line at the helm of Boons on Exchange Street, Retford.

C

live Boon’s grandfather Clifford established Boons in 1928 and the business went from strength-tostrength, continuing to flourish under his father and uncle who were both international stylists In the 1950s. While Clive has been at the head of Boons he has been able to drive the business forward, taking on more stylists and increasing the number of people who walk through the door on a regular basis.

remembers performing his first hair cut and finding it a very daunting experience. “There were a few scary moments at the beginning, but as long as you have been trained well there are no problems.”

Clive still has the same pair of scissors he bought himself when he first started – a £200 pair he purchased in the 1980s that he still uses from time to time.

In between cutting clients’ hair, Clive Having trained with London-based Gincan be seen doing anything from tak“It’s about keeping up to date ger Group and at Vidal Sassoon in the ing part in events and shows for Wella, 1980s, Clive has won numerous awards with the client, being able to the internationally renowned hair care along the way and has become a firm facompany, cutting the hair of top fashion offer them new things and vourite with clients across the area. models at shows and conducting busiTaking an interest in hairdressing from giving them a good service.” ness meetings at his salon. But whatan early age, he was always in and out ever the day brings, Clive still enjoys of the salon, even as a small child and what he does and says the hairdressing was eager to get involved with the family business as soon as business still excites him, particularly the continually evolving he could. “I used to come in after school and on Saturdays. I styles and trends. started full-time when I left school,” he explains.

“A lot of my friends are in the industry so we all feed off each He is proud of what the family has achieved over the years and other. I get a lot of inspiration from what’s happening in places points to photos fixed to walls throughout the salon that show such as Germany, magazines, all over really.” his grandfather’s first hairdressers, originally opened in DonClive says social media also has a big impact on shifting trends caster. The Retford salon opened in 1956 in premises just off and styles, which he has to be constantly ahead of to ensure Arlington Way near to the junction with Moorgate, before movhe can offer what clients may be wanting months down the line. ing to the current location on Exchange Street in 1973. Clive As well as offering a great hairdressing service, Clive says it is

44

Awards . . .

• Most wanted hair trend finalist 2012 • National Hairdressing Federation photo stylist finalist 2012 • Eastern hairdressers of the year 2007 • Winner most wanted look of 2007 • Newcomer of the year 2006 • Guild vision new stylist award winner 2005 • Guild vision photo stylist third 2005 • Visionary award winner 2005 • Eastern hairdresser of the year Finalists 2001-2005

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their attention to the individual clients that keep people coming back time and time again. One client was a regular at Boons for 80 years for instance and to this day there are those who have been coming to Boons for 50 and 60 years. It’s a loyalty that Clive doesn’t take for granted.

“It’s about keeping up to date with the client, being able to offer them new things and giving them a good service.”

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Clive has seen the world of hairdressing change and evolve over the years and says it has taken a positive step forward with more opportunities for people just starting off in the industry.

“I think there are a lot more opportunities for young people now than when I started,” he says. “The big companies do a lot more. There are all kinds of teams people can get involved with to learn from all the best people in the industry and there are more competitions. Wella do one for example called ‘TrendVison’ which is an international competition.”

And Clive’s advice for people starting out in the business?

“Just keep learning, just be a sponge and take in as much as you can. I might have done things slightly differently over the years but I don’t regret anything I’ve done.”

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To book an appointment with Clive or any of the stylists, contact Boons on 01777 702187 or visit www.boonshair.co.uk

BOONS Hair Salon

26 Exchange Street, Retford, Notts DN22 6BL Tel: 01777 702187 www.boonshair.co.uk

boons

a ughty . . . n g n i h t e Som

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Navy feather shrug £55 No.1 Jenny Packham

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Beige heritage check coat £75 Red Herring Red ‘Batent’ mid stiletto heel ankle boots £55 Faith Tee £12 Jeans £22 Bag £29 All at Debenhams www.debenhams.com

Health & Beauty

Add Some Sparkle Sarah Louise’s top tips and must-haves for the festive season

s e v a h t s u m p u e Ma k Translucent Powder Laura Mercier £29 Comes in two shades translucent and medium dark, for darker skin tones. Perfectly sets your makeup for a long lasting and flawless finish.

Caviar Sticks

Pretty Easy Liquid Eyeliner

Laura Mercier £23

Clinique £19.50

Available in shimmer or matte finishes.

Simple and easy application, can be used straight from the tube and blended with fingers. A favourite of mine is ‘rose gold’ to add a subtle shimmer to the lid or highlight to the corner of the eye.

Available in black or brown I personally find this my favourite liquid eyeliner pen to use. Product glides on easily and neatly, use in black to create the perfect feline flick.

Face Illuminator

Mac £16.50

Laura Mercier £32 In 4 glistening shades.

Look no further for the perfect festive glow.

Sweep a light dusting of the highlighter in ‘addiction’ over cheek bones for the most glamorous golden finish to your flawless face.

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Lipstick in ‘Russian Red’ My go-to red lip for any occasion! Matte finish, can be applied with a brush for sharp impact, or patted on with your finger onto moisturised lips for a more subtle bitten lip effect.

I

’m Sarah Louise and I have 10 years experience in make up and hairdressing. I have run my own business as a make up artist for the past five years, based from my studio in Bawtry, whilst also offering a mobile service for weddings and other group events. I’m fully qualified, having trained locally, gaining experience with MAC cosmetics and I’m also a ‘freelance’ artist for luxury brand Laura Mercier.

I’m looking forward to regularly contributing to MADE and I hope my hints, tips and recommendations will be helpful.

www.slhairandmakeup.co.uk

Photo: www.djimagery.co.uk

E asy gl am-up ideas The long Christmas hours we work can often mean that the office night out can be a bit of a rush. But there’s no need to spend hours after work to get that glam look!

Give your tired eyes a brighten with a pop of subtle shimmer over your eyelids and a blended soft brown smoke in the outer corner and crease. Finish off with a slick feline eyeliner to widen the eyes.

Freshen up your skin with a subtle highlight over cheek bones, brow bone and

Beauty

Cupid’s bow, a slightly gold toned highlight is my favourite. Another tip for a fresh looking glowy complexion, is to spritz over your make up with a revitalising mist. I like to use ‘MAC- mineralise charged water’.

Lastly - a perfect statement lip can completely change your look from office to party perfect. Whether it’s a precisely lined lip in your favourite bold red, or a more subtle creamy nude paired with a luscious dab of gloss to add another dimension.

Pilates Perfection

J

oanne Pritchard has been working as a chartered physiotherapist for the last 18 years.

Five years ago she set up her own private practice and today runs the Pilates Clinic Retford, along with a team of full-trained physiotherapists who are on hand to offer help, guidance and support to people with a range of conditions and injuries.

Joanne specialises in Physiotherapy for Neurological conditions such as strokes, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and other conditions that affect the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). She also works with rehabilitation in older people working on mobility problems, arthritis and osteoporosis and also uses Pilates for rehabilitation.

Pilates is a form of exercise that can be modified by physiotherapists and other health professionals, to treat, strengthen, improve and prevent a number of different medical conditions.

Classes are also available for people interested in Pilates at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, with classes running in blocks of six weeks.

For more details on what the Pilates Clinic Retford can do for you contact Joanne and the team at Pilates Clinic Retford, on 07543 944938 or email info@pilatesclinicretford.co.uk.

Visit www.pilatesclinicretford.co.uk

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JOANNE PRITCHARD BSc (Hons), MSc

Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy | HCPC Registered

07543 944938 info@pilatesclinicretford.co.uk www.pilatesclinicretford.co.uk Chapelgate, Retford, DN22 6PL

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Business

The Perfect Focus Claire Weingaertner introduces the Focus team, accounting, networking, training, events and more . . .

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he Focus Collection is a local, friendly business, that strives to meet the needs of today’s business owners and their team members, to make their work life easier and more fun.

We offer a range of business support services that cater for the needs of a variety of business types:

Focus Accounting

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Regular feedback from our clients describes us as being down to earth, easy to talk to, refreshingly different, easy to work with and on your side.

These are just some of the things that make us different. We’re passionate about helping you, our clients, working with you to make your life easier.

We offer you advice and support every step of the way. So if you’re interested to see if we are a good fit for you and your business then please contact us and say hello, we’ll love talking with you. There’s always coffee brewing in the office!

TM

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FOCUS BUSINESS CLUB DATES A monthly networking group designed for people to come and meet other likeminded people in a relaxed atmosphere, which is more productive for business!

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CHANGE YOUR WORLD

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Creating a system that is simple to use, giving you more time to spend on growing your business Our services include; Taxation, Accounting, Company Returns and Business Services.

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Specific training or mentoring tailored to suit you. We provide business skills courses, training for software, along with mentoring for business startups.

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Business services and virtual assistance such as powerpoint presentations, contracts etc as well as consulting on getting the most out of your employees, cost savings and business growth.

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CONSULTANCY EVENTS SERVICES A FUTURE DIVISION

Providing an events management service, as well as running a range of events with a focus on informality and fun – offering a friendly and useful way of meeting new people and businesses.

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info@thefocuscollection.co.uk 15/10/2017 15:25

Food & Drink

The Sweetest Things Making delicious cakes and truffles is all in a day’s work for artisan chocolatiers, The Chocolate Kitchen. The shop has a loyal following and its chocolates make their way to homes across the world. The family run business has just moved into new premises and Made paid a visit to find out more.

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Food & Drink

I

t’s all about quality at The Chocolate Kitchen. From taste and texture to shape and flavour, it’s got to be just right to get the Fox family’s stamp of approval.

The family-run business is currently celebrating its tenth anniversary and to top off a busy year they recently moved to new premises.

The idea of getting involved in making chocolate came from Meghan who runs The Chocolate Kitchen and Emily’s, their training school, along with her father Bob and mother Jenny.

Meghan had just graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a degree in Business Studies when the family took a fivemonth trip to Australia and New Zealand. “We’d been in New Zealand and Australia for five months looking at chocolate, not with any real intention of doing anything, but it sparked a real interest,” says Meghan.

The idea of running a chocolate making business was firmly cemented in Meghan’s mind after she and her father visited France. Speaking with a number of established chocolatiers, the experience put them firmly on the track of chocolate making greatness.

Meghan expanded her natural interest in chocolate with formal training with a number of chocolatiers who encouraged her to develop her own style of chocolate making, a process that involved ‘a lot of trial and error with different products and flavours’.

addition of new premises, extending the training facilities provided by Emily’s and adding a café serving coffees (a unique blend), hot chocolates and of course cakes.

Having this temperature-controlled environment ensures the quality of chocolate production is maintained at a workable and more predictable state.

“Chocolate is a hard taskmaster,” says Bob. “To produce good quality chocolate that is well tempered can be very difficult at times. We need a stable 19 degrees to work with. If it’s warmer than this the chocolate won’t temper properly – it will ‘bloom’. If you move the chocolate from one room to another and the temperature fluctuates by as little as two degrees, it can ‘shock’ the chocolate which also causes it to bloom.” This is one of the reasons The Chocolate Kitchen wanted to open Emily’s, their own school, to teach home chocolate makers to temper and use chocolate successfully. “Over the last few years “We’ve tried to bring back we have listened to our visitors to the school about their problems and givsome of the more traditional ing up on chocolate making at home flavours and shapes such as the because they didn’t understand the technique for successfully temperchocolate barrels we do and the ing their chocolate and that’s no fun rose and violet creams; things at all,” explains Bob. “We have now taught many home chocolate makers that people reminisce about,” how to understand the art of tempering and using chocolate at our many classes we hold and now they too can have fun working with chocolate at home.”

Working from home to begin with, the family began to develop a range of different tastes and flavours and extending their range of truffles at first, trying lots of different variations to see which people favoured the most. “Once we started making the chocolate it just took over and blossomed,” says Bob. “We started going to lots of food festivals and farmers’ markets which really helped promote what we were doing.”

In true artisan style, the ingredients required for a successful chocolate making business eventually saw the team produce a perfect base at Churchgate, Retford. Having been filled with their now extensive experience of chocolate making and flavour development, the icing on the cake has come via the

Over the last ten years, Meghan and Bob have gradually increased and developed what The Chocolate Kitchen has to offer, not only concentrating on what their customers want but also what continues to challenge and inspire them. “One of the best things we did was going to farmers markets and food festivals; listening to what people wanted and enjoyed,” says Bob. “We got a lot of good feedback during this time – we developed a range of chocolates just from what people were telling us.” And the feedback has resulted in the return of some classic chocolate flavours. “We’ve tried to bring back some of the more traditional flavours and shapes such as the chocolate barrels we do and the rose and violet creams; things that people reminisce about,” explains Meghan.

Food

The Chocolate Kitchen’s attention to detail makes every chocolate absolutely perfect. The cakes are beautifully unique and every trip to the shop is a joy for anyone of any age.

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Meghan has developed a style that ensures all of the flavours and ingredients work well together, blending to ensure the perfect balance of taste and texture.

The flavour of the chocolate is allowed to come out rather than be overwhelmed by the additional flavours of whatever the chocolate contains inside. Fresh fruit and jellies are used to flavour their chocolates, a part of the production process that is maintained in order to keep the quality of ingredients high and the overall chocolate as fresh-tasting as possible.

“There is a very fresh element to the process doing it this way but this can give you a limited shelf life. This is because we don’t put any preservatives into any of what we do,” says Meghan.

While chocolates represent a big part of what is made, equally as important to customers are their cakes. Between them, Bob and Meghan have produced a variety of fabulous cakes for special events. Whether for a particularly significant birthday, a wedding or simply a special treat, they have made wonderful creations that have wowed customers across the region and beyond. Bob and Meghan put their continued success down to working as a family, making decisions together and finding the right work and family balance. “We work very much as a family,” explains Meghan. “On a Sunday morning for instance, the conversation will be about what next week’s plans are and what last week was like. At some point we’ll sit down, have a natter and then try and drop it to have a bit of a life outside of the business.”

THE GIFT OF HAPPINESS

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You can have your cake and eat it, but it’s made to share and Meghan’s love for chocolate and flavours does just that.

Emily’s is the name of their learning space, providing lessons on chocolate making, catering for parties, hen dos and so much more.

2007

CARR ROAD

Chocolate is never too far away and Bob in particular is partial to a regular, daily dose of chocolaty goodness. “I will have a brownie with my coffee in the morning and always have some dark callets at the side of me somewhere to eat – and my weight hasn’t changed over the last ten years!

E S T.

The Chocolate Kitchen’s newly opened premises on West Street in Retford, sees the family starting another new chapter. Visitors can now not only enjoy a chocolate or slice of cake but also be served a winter-warming coffee.

Fun, food & know-how Organise your party.

Learn the art of chocolate making on one of our courses.

Meghan, Bob and Jenny Fox. The Chocolate Kitchen.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new shop, kitchen and chocolate café.

5 West Street, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 6ES 01777 711007 www.thechocolatekitchen.co.uk

/thechockitchen

@thechockitchen

Food

An Artisan Christmas Help is at hand for busy cooks looking to prepare an inspirational feast this Christmas with The School of Artisan Food launching a range of practical, hands-on courses specially designed for the festive season.

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n the historical Welbeck Estate, The School of Artisan Food has invited food experts from across the UK and Europe to teach how to prepare the perfect festive feast.

Courses range from traditional Victorian fayre to Italian Christmas classics and to chocolate making. Celebrated food writer and historian Ivan Day will be cooking up a traditional Victorian Christmas including goose and historic pies; Valentina Harris will bring many years of experience to her Italian savoury and sweet classics like pasta and panettone; Mickael Jahan will

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prepare festive French tarts; while other courses cover seasonal preserves, chocolate-making and Christmas baking.

Each course is designed to help Christmas cooks prepare an inspirational festive meal to impress family and friends. All ingredients and tools are provided on the day and cooks can either take their creations home or eat them on the spot. The School of Artisan Food is a not-for-profit organisation and exists to teach all aspects of artisan food production.

Visit, www.schoolofartisanfood.org for details and booking.

Food & Drink

12 & 25 Nov

2 Dec

8 Dec

Christmas Baking

An Italian Christmas

Christmas Preserves

Learn how to bake a selection of Christmas favourites to perfection with artisan baking tutor Emmanuel Hadjiandreou.

An internationally renowned baker and author of the award-winning ‘How To Make Bread’, you’ll learn the practical skills needed to master making your own puff pastry, marzipan and enriched doughs for making Stollen and more.

Valentina Harris shares her love of classic Italian food. Using the best seasonal produce, you’ll learn about the flavours and artisan techniques needed to recreate an authentic taste of Italy’s delicious savoury dishes and canapes in your own kitchen including fresh pasta; ricotta, garlic and mint filled pastries; polenta crostini with creamy mushrooms and cheese; and giant Christmas ravioli.

Create delicious festive marmalades, chutneys and relishes under the expert guidance of cook and food writer Lindy Wildsmith. Lindy specialises in modern British and regional Italian food and is the author of acclaimed artisan food book ‘Cured’. You’ll get hands-on in the kitchen trying out creative recipes for homemade spiced pear mincemeat; spiced cranberry and orange relish; Christmas chutney and more.

18 Nov A Victorian Christmas Ivan Day goes back in time to rediscover long forgotten cookery techniques and heirloom recipes.

This taste of Christmas past includes: Victorian roast goose, Christmas pie, ornamenting a Twelfth Cake, historic gingerbreads and yule dows, and Victorian moulded Ingoldsby plum pudding with Eliza Acton’s punch sauce.

18-19 Nov Festive French Tarts & Choux Pastry This intensive two-day baking course is led by French Master Baker Mickael Jahan who will teach how to create festive tarts and patisserie as he shares the skills and expertise gained during more than 20 years of hand-crafted baking in France and England.

19 Nov

3 Dec An Italian Christmas (sweet) Valentina Harris will equip you with the confidence and the skills to create a selection of delicious desserts and edible gifts including nougat semifreddo; Il Montebianco - Chestnut and chocolate mountain; traditional Panforte; soft almond biscuits; spiced Umbrian Christmas cake; and Cantuccini al fico - Tuscan almond and fig dunking biscuits.

9-10 Dec 9-10 Dec

Festive Chocolate &

Continental Baking

Confectionery

Indulge yourself in two days of continental Christmas baking with tutor and award-winning author Emmanuel Hadjiandreou. Learn the secrets of festive flavours and master Christmas baking befitting the best European Christmas markets to create chocolate and peanut panettone; poppy seed stollen; pan aux epicés; and saffron buns.

This one day course begins with a chocolate tasting before you go on to produce your own artisan sweet treats in both savoury and sweet flavours. Tutor Shelly Preston is an experienced patissière and chocolatière who runs her own bean to bar chocolate lab, Ottar Chocolate. Explore the attributes of various cacao beans and make your own ganache; mandarin fruit jellies; chocolate bars; and sea salt whisky caramels.

Historic Pies with Ivan Day

7 Dec

Combining hands-on British pie-making with fascinating food history this course will give you an opportunity to put into practice long-forgotten cookery techniques. Ivan will help you to create a selection of pies using recipes dating back hundreds of years, which could include lumber pie, venison pasty and the spectacular raised Victorian ornamented pies.

Festive Cheeseboard Join cheese expert Katy Fenwick for an evening and learn how to put together a delicious Christmas cheeseboard. Katy will share her insights into historic British cheeses, as well as cheeses from further afield, how and when we eat them, and a chance to taste a festive selection of cheeses. This course covers different cheeseboard ideas; drink pairings and accompaniments and much more.

The School of Artisan Food has an outstanding reputation for the quality of training it provides with courses being taught by some of the most skilled and experienced artisan producers and practitioners in the UK, Europe and beyond. It is the UK’s only school dedicated to artisan food and drink production about which HRH The Prince of Wales said: “What is going on here at the School is of enormous importance.”

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Food & Drink

Bonfire Night Sweets Wonderfully sweet and still one of your five a day!

Crackle & pop toffee apples Ingredients 8 of your favourite apples, we love the Pink Lady variety 8 toffee apple sticks 400g of caster sugar 120ml of water 4 tbsp of golden syrup 50g of unsalted butter A couple of packets of popping candy Method • Pop the apples in a large bowl (large enough to cover them briefly with boiling water), a few at a time, pour over boiling water to cover the apples and quickly pour away. This should remove any coating on the apples and the toffee will stick better. Dry the apples and push wooden lolly sticks halfway into the stalk end.

• Lay out a baking tray with some grease proof paper ready for the ap-

shutterstock

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ples to sit on when they’re coated.

Put some bowls with popping candy and other toppings to one side ready for later.

• Grab a nice large heavy bottomed pan and add the caster sugar and water. Stir this mix constantly over a low heat until all the sugar has dissolved (roughly 5 minutes).

• Add the syrup and the butter to the pan and stir until it is all melted and combined, then bring to the boil without stirring. Then, leave boiling for about 15 minutes or if you have a thermometer 149°-154°C (the hardcrack stage) for about 15-18 minutes.

• You can test if the toffee is ready by dropping a teaspoon of the mixture into a mug of very cold water. If it hardens instantly and it’s easy to break when removed it’s ready. If you can still squash it boil it for a little longer.

• Next take the pan away from the heat and wait for the mixture to stop bubbling. Now the tricky bit, tilt the pan a little and dip your apples in the mix one at a time, covering them (where ever you’d like the toffee). Let any excess drip away before dipping them in a topping and popping them on the greaseproof papered tray. (If the toffee starts to get too thick through cooling, heat it again.)

• You can add other sweeties, smarties, nuts or whatever tickles your fancy. Perhaps make cinder toffee and crumble it up on top.

Cinder toffee This takes about 15 minutes, but for the toffee to set, you need about an hour.

Ingredients 500g caster sugar 225g golden syrup 2 tsp vanilla essence 90ml water 1 tbsp bicarbonate of soda Method • Grease a large tin with plenty of greaseproof paper inside, making sure the edges of the tin are well lined. Add a little butter to the inside of the greaseproof paper to make sure the toffee doesn’t stick later and set to one side.

• Grab a heavy bottomed saucepan and add the sugar, water, syrup and vanilla essence. Without stirring, bring it to the boil, it will dissolve away into a lovely golden colour. Keep boiling until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage, about 15 minutes, (see the toffee apples recipe for testing the toffee).

• Next, the exciting bit, take the pan away from the heat and drop in the bicarbonate of soda. Whisk this quickly until it is all mixed in, and a lovely thick mass of golden bubbles.

• Pour this mixture straight into the tin you popped to one side earlier to cool • When it’s all set, break up into pieces and share. You can add melted chocolate, and toppings if you’d like to add a little bit more excitement to the recipe.

Food & Drink

Spirits of Sherwood The spirit of Sherwood Forest for many harks back to the legend of Robin Hood and his merry men. Even today the forest has a magical feel and is one of our local treasures.

For Royston Locke and his partner Anne Robinson the magical ‘Spirit of Sherwood’ has taken on a new meaning, one that would have made Robin Hood’s men very merry indeed.

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he Sherwood Forest Art and Craft Centre lies just a few minutes walk from the Major Oak. Once the coach house and stables of Edwinstowe Hall, the art and craft centre now homes around 16 studios with craftsmen and artists. Roy and Anne set up their company, Spirits of Sherwood, at the centre about five years ago.

The couple have run a variety of ventures, and having spent over 12 years creating fine chocolates, decided that it was time to venture into something new. “The idea of selling spirits was always simmering in the background – we’d been thinking about it for quite a while,” says Roy, who started to look into it more closely, doing a little distilling to start with to try it out. The results were proof that the new company was going to work well.

“Bringing people into the shop to teach them how to make spirits is certainly something we want to get up and running,” says Roy. “We’re working on that at the moment and as soon as we can we’ll start opening that up to people.”

Although it’s relatively early days for the company, the couple say they are ready to start growing the business, investing their time in a project they strongly believe in.

The Spirits of Sherwood at the Sherwood Arts and Crafts centre is open Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm during the summer and WedSun, 10am-4pm during the winter. Look out for special events throughout the year including craft demonstrations and exhibitions. Visit: www.spiritsofsherwood.com

Currently, Spirits of Sherwood sells craft vodka and gin. In addition to the original vodka is a subtly orange tinted marmalade flavoured version and Roy is now considering introducing more variety and also producing whisky. Although the process to create whisky takes longer than the time required to make gin and vodka, Roy says it would definitely be something for the future.

The couple are also planning to pass on their spirit making skills to others by running a number of workshops in the near future.

The Sherwood Art and Craft Centre at Edwinstowe is a popular place for visitor and for the resident craftsmen and artists. Roy says that,

“being here in the arts and crafts centre is a very

social place to be. When I come in every morning it doesn’t feel like I’m actually going to work.”

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Food

Feast Your Eyes

The Taste the Difference range at Sainsbury’s has it covered. The classics, a few new tastes, and recipes for the leftovers this festive season.

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Food & Drink

Taste the Difference individual root vegetable stacks. To order only.

Taste the Difference hot smoked salmon and egg royale.

Taste the Difference three nut and mushroom roast.

To start the day right, how about a full English modern brunch and why not add avocado. Now a mainstream ingredient – long gone are the days when it was seen as an exotic addition to the table, carefully served in a specially shaped avocado dish.

ual main course and are made up of layers of root vegetables and spring greens with melting mozzarella and Barbers extra mature Cheddar cheese, caramelised onion and toasted pine kernels.

Hot smoked salmon & egg royale

Three nut & mushroom roast

This is a dish that is really on-trend. Flakes of honey roasted Scottish salmon and a soft poached egg topped with chopped chives, cracked black pepper and a delicate hollandaise sauce, served with cocktail blinis for a little extra substance.

A cashew, pistachio, almond and mushroom roast topped with a redcurrant and port gravy. Perfect as either a vegetarian main or meat-free stuffing.

Open vegetable wellington

This Christmas pudding uses a unique recipe developed for Sainsbury’s which is made by pudding makers with over 100 years of experience. The pudding ingredients are gently mixed together to ensure the fruits, nuts and cherries aren’t damaged.

The puddings are then steam cooked in their basins which helps to plump up the vine fruits. After cooling, the puddings are then finished with a splash of cognac before being matured for 18 months to allow the flavours to infuse perfectly just in time for Christmas.

A vegetarian centrepiece for Christmas lunch this. Full of hearty winter flavours, including marinated beetroot, kale, roasted parsnips and a chestnut and pecorino puree, the vegetables are topped with Long Clawson Stilton and encased in butter enriched puff pastry.

Root vegetable stacks These neat little parcels make for a perfectly presented individ-

18 Month matured Christmas pudding

Brunch with Sainsbury’s Taste the

Taste the Difference open

Taste the Difference 18 month

bred British pork chipolatas.

wellington. To order only.

you have to do is choose a topping!

Difference sausages and outdoor

beetroot, parsnip and stilton

matured Christmas pudding. All

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Food & Drink

How to waste less and save more this season.

Christmas Pudding Apple Crumble Ingredients 120g butter 270g plain flour 350g Christmas pudding Apple filling 450g Bramley apples, cut into 1cm cubes 1 tbsp caster sugar 1 tsp cinnamon (optional) Method • Puree the Christmas pudding in a food blender until completely smooth.

• Cube the butter and add to the flour, followed by the smooth Christmas pudding; rub the butter and Christmas pudding into the flour to create a light breadcrumb texture.

• Place the apples into a bowl and mix in the cinnamon and caster sugar, place in the microwave for approx.

3 mins until the apple just begins to soften slightly.

• Transfer into an oven-proof dish and top with the crumble.

• Bake in the oven, which has been preheated to 180ºC, for 20-30 mins.

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Ultimate Boxing Day Cheese Board Mac ‘n’ Cheese The perfect recipe for a quiet Boxing Day supper or during the ‘midmas’ period between Christmas and New Year.

Making the most of the ends of the cheeseboard, plus some of the left over trimmings, you could also add chunks of left over turkey, pigs in blankets or sausagemeat stuffing if you prefer a meatier dish.

Ingredients (Serves 4) 500g macaroni 50g butter 50g plain flour 700ml milk 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 450g mixed cheeseboard cheese (Cheddar, Red Leicester, Stilton, Brie etc), grated 6 tbsp cranberry sauce Handful of roast chestnuts 100g left over stuffing (or to taste) Method • Cook the macaroni in a large pan of slightly salty water according to the pack instructions, but take off the heat 3-4 mins before reaching the recommended cooking time so that the macaroni is still ‘al dente’ / slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.

• Warm the milk gently in a pan and then make a béchamel (white sauce) by melting the butter in a large saucepan, adding the flour and cooking for one minute whilst stirring continuously.

Gradually add the warm milk a ladleful at a time, stirring to avoid lumps until a smooth sauce has formed.

• Stir in the mustard and 400g of the grated cheese, then add the cooked macaroni, cranberry sauce and chestnuts and stir until coated.

• Pour the mac ‘n’ cheese into an ovenproof dish and top with the remaining cheese and the crumbled left over stuffing.

• Place in the oven for 30 mins at 170ºC or until crisp and golden on top. Take it out of the oven and allow to set slightly before serving.

Spiced Salmon Fish Cakes This is a great way to use up any left over salmon – you can adapt to use smoked salmon, cold cooked salmon or even flakes of hot smoked salmon.

Ingredients (Serves 2) 2 tsps of your preferred ground spices e.g. cumin, coriander, mild curry powder 600g potatoes 1 red chilli 1 egg, beaten 100g left-over salmon, flaked or chopped Plain flour, dusting 1 knob of butter Pomegranate seeds and chopped coriander to garnish Method • Boil the potatoes until soft before draining and returning to the saucepan.

• Meanwhile, dry-fry the spices for a couple of seconds in a large nonstick frying pan. Add the blend of your chosen spices and the chilli with plenty of seasoning to the drained potatoes and then mash well.

• When cooled a little, beat in 2 tablespoons of the egg, then carefully stir through the salmon.

• Shape into 4 rough cakes, then coat in plain flour.

• In the frying pan, melt the butter with the oil. Fry the cakes for about 2 mins on each side until golden. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped coriander. Serve with raita or spicy tomato dipping sauce along with salad leaves.

Sainsbury’s Development Chef Nicola Bramley

Sainsbury’s Recipes

Food

Festive Cocktails Winter Daiquiri Cocktail Serves 2 A refreshing yet seasonal cocktail. If cinnamon sugar isn’t available, substitute with golden caster sugar.

Ingredients 320ml frozen clementine juice 100ml Taste the Difference Spiced Rum 5ml maple syrup Cinnamon sugar Method 1. Dip the rim of two martini glasses in water and then into the cinnamon sugar. Set to one side.

2. In a blender, blitz the frozen clementine juice until it forms a slush and mix in the dark rum and maple syrup.

3. Pour into martini glasses and serve.

Irish Cream & Hazelnut Espresso Martini Serves 1 Made using Taste the Difference Irish Cream from Sainsbury’s is made in Ireland from locally sourced Irish cream.

This is a deliciously creamy take on a classic espresso martini.

Ingredients 50ml espresso 50ml vodka 50ml Taste the Difference Irish cream liqueur ½ tbsp hazelnut syrup Coffee beans and cocoa powder to garnish Method 4. Shake all ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker.

5. Serve in a martini glass and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and whole coffee beans.

Dark and Stormy Christmas Serves 1 This is a great way to use up left over mulled wine, whether it is still in the bottle or you have leftovers sitting in a pan at the end of a party.

Ingredients 50ml mulled wine 25ml Taste the Difference Spiced Rum Ginger ale Orange peel to garnish Method 1. Mix the mulled wine and dark rum together and pour into a glass filled with ice.

2. Top up with ginger ale and serve with orange peel.

These recipe inspirations and all images are brought to you with thanks to www.sainsburys.co.uk

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Leisure

A Novel Idea Steve Cawthorne meets the best-selling crime novelist Stephen Booth. A former journalist who works from his home in rural Nottinghamshire. He has written 17 novels featuring detectives Ben Cooper and Diane Fry and his work has seen him shortlisted for the CWA Dagger awards in the UK four times and is also a Dagger in the Library winner. In the USA, where he has a growing following of loyal readers, he has twice won the award for Best British Crime Novel of the Year. To date his novels have been translated into 16 languages.

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met Stephen at his home, a former farmhouse that sits snugly in a quiet spot in a village in rural Nottinghamshire. He welcomed me into his office, an outbuilding that just five years ago had been used as a stable for horses. Now converted into a writer’s studio, it has views over open fields and is a space that allows Stephen to work at his computer peacefully, away from the trappings of everyday life.

It’s a busy time of the year for Stephen.

“The characters create the story, I just follow them to see where they are going. I find this a much more exciting way of writing and it surprises me. If you’re reading something in one of my books that surprises you, the chances are it probably surprised me as well!” Stephen says he has always been interested in writing and knew it was something he was going to be involved with in some way.

“I remember writing pretty much as soon as I could read and Only a few months ago he released his latest novel, Dead In I’d written my first full novel by the time I was 12. I rememThe Dark, to great acclaim and now he is just weeks away ber it was a science fiction novel. It felt so satisfying to have from the deadline for his yet to be titled latest book. Workcompleted it and right there and then I knew writing was what ing to release one book a year, Stephen writes to a pretty I wanted to do.” Stephen was working at a local newspaper tight schedule, always looking ahead to his next book bewhen he received a phone call to say that his debut novel had fore the previous one has even gone to received interest from a publishing comprint. However, deadlines are something pany. “I was working in the office when the former journalist is used to and his “The characters create the my agent rang to say that a publisher ever-creative mind always comes up had offered a sum to publish the book. story, I just follow them to with the goods when it comes to writing I said something like ‘go ahead that’s thrilling novels. see where they are going.” great’ but my agent said she was going to hold off on the offer and approach some Although his novels contain intricate more publishers.” storylines and weaving themes, Stephen does not subscribe to the conventional plot planning, choosing instead In the end the book was published by HarperCollins and about to work in a more ‘organic’ way, where things just ‘evolve’.

12 months later Stephen handed in his notice as a journalist “When I start a new book I don’t have any particularly firm to become a full-time novelist. This first novel, Black Dog, was ideas – there is never an obvious plot, just lots of posnamed by the London Evening Standard as one of the six best sibilities. The writing becomes a natural progression, an crime novels of the year, in the USA it won the Barry Award for organic process,” he says.

Best British Crime Novel and was nominated for an Anthony Award for Best First Mystery.

“In the very early stages I tend to do research for locations then I develop a scenario. Usually this then opens up scenes “When I started writing my first book I had no intention of it and ideas. I’m raising questions – who did what and what were becoming a series”, says Stephen. “It was only when I came their lives like? I jot down all kinds of things until a storyline to writing the ending did I realise I could write more books and character come together. Then I begin writing down very in the series.” Stephen puts the longevity of the series down to disjointed scenes and detail. The structure comes during the having his two strong, central characters - Detective Inspector actual writing and I’ll move things around all the time.”

Ben Cooper and Detective Sergeant Diane Fry. The pair have

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Leisure

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Leisure

The Cooper & Fry series so far: 1. Black Dog 2. Dancing With The Virgins 3. Blood On The Tongue 4. Blind To The Bones 5. One Last Breath 6. The Dead Place

worked together over the last 17 years and Stephen is proud of his creations. “When I wrote my first novel Cooper and Fry leapt off the page straight away which was something I certainly wasn’t expecting. They took on a reality of their own and it was this that I think made all the difference with this book. The characters are so strong and vivid on the page and this showed me that I could write another book.”

It is these characters that continue to ensure not only his readers take an interest in the novels, but that Stephen himself remains enthusiastic about what he is writing about. “As long as the characters remain interesting then this will drive me on and keep my interest in writing another Cooper and Fry novel.”

With his latest novel, Dead In The Dark, it is Cooper and Fry that once again are called on to investigate the disappearance of a man who was previously accused of killing his wife. The investigation takes the pair into the caves and abandoned mines of Lathkilldale and into the territory, landscapes and surroundings that are such a large feature of Stephen’s Books. “I give the characters the freedom to do what is natural for them to do and not control them too much. I got into trouble once with some readers for killing off a character – but that’s just what happened naturally.”

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7. Scared To Live 8. Dying To Sin 9. The Kill Call 10. Lost River 11. The Devil’s Edge 12. Dead And Buried 13. Already Dead 14. The Corpse Bridge 15. The Murder Road 16. Secrets Of Death 17. Dead In The Dark (2017) 18. [in progress]

“As long as the characters remain interesting then this will drive me on and keep my interest in writing another Cooper and Fry novel.”

Stephen tends to do most of his writing in the evenings, a part of the day when he says he is at his most creative and productive and at 100,000 words a book there’s always plenty of writing to be done.

“I have to be someone else when I write. It takes quite a leap to jump into the mind of a character. If you know your character well enough it really can make all the difference.

“As long as the characters remain interesting then this will drive me on and keep my interest in writing another Cooper and Fry novel.”

Leisure

DnC Add The Magic

presents

D

nC Events make it their job to make your special event a day to remember. Whether it’s a special birthday, wedding, anniversary or reunion, DnC Events are on hand to ensure special memories are created from start to finish. MD, Darrell Cross, said they simply want to ensure people have a good time when attending events and special occasions. “We love seeing people having a great time. If we can contribute to making someone’s day really special then that makes us happy,” says Darrell. “For us its great having a business the whole family can be involved in and they can enjoy as much as our clients.”

The Sport Of Kings

DnC Events have plenty of entertainment to ensure events are enjoyed to the max. “Our Magic Selfie Mirror is very popular. It really brings people together and adds a new dimension to any event,” says Darrell. The fully interactive touch screen allows you to interact with the mirror whilst it takes your full-length photo. Strike a pose, put on one of the fun props or even use the inbuilt scream-meter before taking your photo, adding your signature and printing your picture within seconds.

Magic

For corporate clients or to add something extra, Darrell and the team can also customise the touch screen with your logo or image, add instant social media uploads or use a green screen background to take your guests on a memorable journey.

DnC Event’s Casino Nights are also a great way of ensuring guests are entertained in a fun, engaging way. There are a range of tables with croupiers on hand to teach guests how to play roulette or blackjack and the ever popular ‘chuck a luck’ where guests bet on the outcome of three dice rotated in a small cage.

“Life is short,” says Darrell. “If we can help create some memories along the way and bring a smile to people’s faces then DnC Events has been a real success.”

RACE NIGHTS CASINO NIGHTS MAGIC SELFIE MIRROR CHUMS DISCO

To find out more about how DnC Events can help at your special event visit www.dncevents.co.uk.

EVENT MANAGEMENT Contact our team to discuss how we can make your event special and memorable. Ideal for: WEDDINGS • PROMS • CORPORATE • EVENTS

07719 587553

hello@dncevents.co.uk

www.dncevents.co.uk dnceventsnotts

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“If we can help create some memories along the way and bring a smile to people’s faces then DnC Events has been a real success.”

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Leisure

Ramble On In the first in a regular feature, travel writer and photographer Sally Outram guides us through some of the walks that take in the area’s scenery and landmarks. This issue’s walk follows a circular route that starts in Retford’s market square and takes in the town’s surroundings and beyond.

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here is no better way to enjoy the winter than wrapping up warm, lacing those boots and taking a walk back in time, through one of North Nottinghamshire’s most historic towns, quaint villages, pretty waterways and surrounding countryside. The small and attractive market town of Retford in North Nottinghamshire, is one of the oldest boroughs in England and is steeped is history and local folklore; from the notorious highwayman, Dick Turpin to founders of the New World the Pilgrim Fathers.

Retford flourished when the Great North Road was rerouted through the town in 1766. The market square became a hive of activity, with its scores of public houses and inns attracting a bustling passing trade. The arrival of the railway and the Chesterfield Canal saw many changes and by the 20th century the population had significantly increased. This lovely town continues to grow and flourish with its eclectic choice of bars, coffee shops, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a super museum!

We begin this winter walk in the market square by the magnificent town hall; a Grade II French Romanesque inspired building, which sits beautifully in the

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Georgian square with its elegant splendour. Don’t miss the Broad Stone situated at the front. This is said to be the upturned base of a cross, which was used as a vessel for disinfecting coins in vinegar during the plague to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. As we stroll through the town, take a moment to look up at the rooftops and the stunning buildings; the architecture is absolutely fabulous!

The jewel in Retford’s crown has to be Kings’ Park. It was opened in 1930 to commemorate the reign of George V and the coronation of George VI. Once voted fifth, in Britain’s favourite parks, it offers something for everyone, with flower beds and displays, which are beautiful all year. The River Idle meanders gently through, attracting an abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna.

Heading out of the park it’s worth taking a look at the superb Trinity Hospital. This Grade II listed building was established over 340 years ago and has remained a notable alms house since the 17th Century, and is a fine example of Gothic style architecture.

Moving on, just a short distance from the town, is the small but quintessen-

tially English, hamlet of Babworth, the birthplace of the Pilgrim Fathers, who were the early settlers of Plymouth, Massachusetts and founders of the New World. The country lanes are lined with evergreens bursting with bright red winter berries, small paths and winding tracks take you to a little church, hidden amongst some of the area’s oldest trees.

All Saints Church is particularly special and must be in one the prettiest settings in North Nottinghamshire; it dates back to over 900 years and has significant connections to the Pilgrim story. It also houses the world-famous mouse carvings by Robert (Mousey) Thompson, I’m still trying to find them all!

The final stretch of our walk takes us over field edge tracks, through ancient woodland and by road, where we follow in the footsteps of Dick Turpin, before joining our waterway path along the Chesterfield Canal. Keep your eyes peeled for winter wildlife such as Redwing, swans and the occasional Heron.

It’s the perfect time of year to spot deer, badgers and foxes, as the vegetation is sparse. Simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of the canal as it winds through the countryside as we make our way back to the starting point at Retford.

Happy ramblings!

Leisure The basics

All Saints Church, Babworth

Chesterfield Canal.

1. Leave the market place via Chancery Lane, which is at the corner of the town hall and the One Stop council buildings. Proceed straight along Chancery Lane, walking past the public toilets on your right. Turn right onto Exchange Street and follow the path to the T-junction, where you will re-join Chancery Lane. Cross straight over to the main gates of Kings’ Park.

2. As you enter the park through the impressive iron gates, walk along the path, around the pond and straight ahead towards the bridge, which crosses the River Idle. Notice the rose garden to the left. Continue over the bridge, the path takes a slight right bend uphill through the green recreational area and by the play park on the left. Keep following the path until you reach the exit gates, which take you to the A620 Hospital Road.

To the right, on the opposite side of the road, is Trinity Hospital.

3. Cross the A620 (taking great care as it is a busy road). Bear left onto Babworth Road over the railway bridge, passing Retford Oaks Academy on the right, keeping to the footpath along the A620 until you reach Babworth.

Distance: Gradient: Stiles: Maps:

Path description:

Start point: Parking:

Dog friendly: Public toilets: Refreshments:

7.5 miles/12km Severity: Easy Mostly level Approx time: 3 hours None OS Explorer 270 Sherwood Forest, Mansfield, Worksop & Edwinstowe OS Explorer 271 Retford Paths, tracks and country lanes Can get muddy along the canal tow path Market square, Retford Chancery Lane public car park - DN22 6EU Bridgegate car park - DN22 6AQ, Churchgate - DN22 6PH Yes; on leads on public roads Town centre close to town hall Spencer’s on the Square – bar, restaurant – 01777 800230 Opera Tea Rooms – 01777 948354 (plus many more in town)

4. At the crossroads junction, take the first turning right. You will see a red post box on the corner. Follow the bridle path up to All Saints Church, taking care along the lane as horses frequently cross to and from Haygarth House livery. Take a few extra minutes to explore the church if it’s open, you might just spot one of the featured hidden mouse carvings by Robert (Mousey) Thompson.

At the church, turn left, following the tree lined path between the brick walls. Follow the path uphill keeping the copse to the left.

5. When you reach the top proceed through the kissing gates, following a narrow fenced path downhill through a field until you reach the road.

6. Cross over the road and go through another kissing gate, at this point the path runs slightly to the right. Walk towards the pine trees at the top right of the hedge. Once at the top right hand corner of the field, proceed through another kissing gate then turn left onto the lane that runs by the side of the woods. Continue along until you reach the next kissing gate, immediately turn right and follow the lane to the next road.

7. Cross over this road and pass the cottages (Green Mile Lane); which was once part of the old Great North Road.

It is said that infamous highwayman

Dick Turpin committed his villainous acts along this section of highway.

Take extra caution along this road as it is a byway for all traffic. Continue along the road until you reach the bridge over the Chesterfield Canal.

Walk down to the towpath keeping the canal on your right-hand side.

8. Follow the towpath. At bridge 53 the path becomes a section of road where you shortly reach Forest Top Lock no 54. Continue along to a derelict white lock keepers’ cottage at Forest Middle Lock. Here you will find waterways facilities and toilets.

Stay on the towpath with the canal on your right; a pleasant picnic stop is at Forest Middle Bottom Lock further along (also sightings of Herons).

As you continue along the towpath, passing Forest Bottom Lock, you will next reach Lady Bridge, following the path into Retford, passing under the road and railway bridges.

9. Continue along past the West Retford Lock and follow the towpath over the aqueduct which crosses the River Idle until you reach the regenerated canal side warehouses, lock and marina. At this point there is the Bay Tree Café; come off the tow path here and cross the car park to the main road. Cross over the main road into the pedestrianised area (Carolgate) and continue straight until you return to the market square.

73

Movie Night Made’s Christmas favourites

Die Hard, Die hard 2, Die Hard...

Scrooged

Bad Santa

Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman, need we say

Bill Murray is an absolute treat as Frank Cross,

One for the grown ups… When you get a minute

more? These movies are definitely a festive

the cares about no-one, high flying, career driv-

to enjoy your festive tipple, one of our office fa-

must-see. Action, thrills, explosions, baddies and

en television executive. Karen Allen plays Claire

vourites has to be Bad Santa.

goodies, John McClane has it fully loaded. Every

Phillips, his one and only, now lost, love. As with

Billy Bob Thornton plays the perfectly wicked

year it’s a hit for our layout manager at Made and

the traditional Dickens’ tale, Scrooged takes us

Santa, guaranteed to be on the naughty list for

everyone else she can grab is forced (not unwill-

through all the ghosts with a ‘modernish’ (going

decades to come as he commits his petty crimi-

ingly) to watch it. If you can play them all back

back to the 80s) twist on it all. A taxi driving ghost

nal acts. Lauren Graham is definitely no ‘Gilmore

to back there’s plenty to keep you entertained for

takes Frank into the past, a sadistic fairy initiates

Girl’ in this movie with her fetish for the wise-

hours if the chocolate box is deep enough.

the slapstick comedy brilliantly, as the rather

cracking and outwardly child-loathing Santa.

harsh ghost of the present and the grim reaper

Hilarious!

Love Actually

is really rather scary as his television screen face and tormented souls body take Frank to his future death. One of our favourite bits has to be the

one of our favourites. It has happy moments, sad

Ghost of Christmas Present hitting Frank with a

moments, silly moments and love it moments,

toaster, and the extremely crazy Eliot (Bobcat

This Finnish horror Christ-

ready to set you up for that Christmas feeling.

Goldthwait and his unmistakable voice) scenes.

mas movie is not for the

Liam Neeson is a great brooding stepfather, Alan

Fabulous, fast-paced and feel great. Love it.

faint hearted, most defi-

Rickman, the almost straying husband; Keira Knightly is pretty much her usual self and Hugh

A Muppets Christmas Carol

Grant is the Prime Minister, which seems to work

nitely not for the children!

The discovery of the secret behind Santa Claus, this

pretty well. I suppose it couldn’t get any worse.

Who can resist the Muppets, really? The tunes

movie will have all the

Nevertheless, along with Emma Thompson and

that you’ll be singing for months, Gonzo as the

grown ups on their

Andrew Lincoln completing the line up (before he

narrator and the well-seasoned Michael Caine to

best behaviour, you

started tearing it up in the Walking Dead) it’s a

hold all the fun and chaos together.

better watch out...

festive feel good for everyone.

Elf

The Nightmare Before Christmas Tim Burton creates a little gothic-styled escape from

Oh My Goodness. Buddy the elf, a rather tall Will

the usual Christmas antics with this ghoulish, yet

Ferrell, clad in a green elf suit complete with pointy

beautiful little (almost) horror for children and grown

hat and curly toed shoes, takes us “through the

ups alike. Halloween Jack is a perfect trick and treat

seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the

for Christmas and the movie jingles along nicely to

sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then … through

see Christmas stolen and then at the end perfectly

the Lincoln Tunnel”. If anyone ever felt like having

restored and all is well in the world once again.

maple syrup and sugar plums for every meal, then this film is for you. Sickly and sweet in some parts,

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

there are plenty of huge laughs. James Caan as the true father to buddy the elf keeps it grounded

As far as we’re concerned here, this movie is an

only just, and with the sweet innocent tones of

absolute must for a chilly afternoon, so grab the

Zooey Deschanel, brilliant tones of Mary Steen-

hot chocolate and marshmallows (or an egg-

burgen, the movie is a hit with us.

nog) and snuggle with family under the blanket.

Home Alone, Home Alone 2

A beautiful film that takes us through the journey of George Bailey (James Stewart) who has hit his own personal rock bottom only to find his very own

74

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale

With a fabulous cast, Love actually, is actually

Who wouldn’t as a child love the idea of having a

guardian angel Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers),

whole house to themselves at some point.

who shows him the worth of his life. A lovely sen-

“Merry Christmas you filthy animals.”

timent and a beautiful movie, gets us every time.

2017 has been a fantastic year for new releases. Don’t worry if you have missed out, there’s still plenty left until the end of the year. Take a look at Made’s recommendations below. May the force be with you.

Cinema releases to look out for in 2017 1 Nov 3 Nov 24 Nov 14 Dec 20 Dec

Bad Mom’s Christmas Thor: Ragnarok Coco Star Wars - The Last Jedi Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

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Nov/Dec/17

Issue 1