Richard Whitehead MBE Born and raised in Nottingham, a Paralympic Gold Medallist, professional athlete, marathon runner. Richard is keen to use his profile to ensure everyone is given greater opportunities to be involved in sport and wellness activities.
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Archives discovered. Thousands of Jewish people who fled Nazi Germany as children will for the first time learn details of their journeys to freedom thanks to the discovery of historic documents by academics from Nottingham Trent University (NTU).
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The Air Hostess is a freehouse bought for the community, by the community, serving homemade pub classics as well as fabulous Chef’s specials. Let's see what our local food critic had to say on her recent visit.
Tuscany is a region in central Italy known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Tuscany is home to cities like Florence, and Pisa each offering a unique mix of historical landmarks, Renaissance art, and architectural beauty. 78 01157 526444
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New year new houseplants. Taking down decorations after the festive season can make our homes feel a bit bare, so January is the perfect time to welcome life and vibrancy back into your space with houseplants.
Nottinghamshire Aspect is published by Aspect East MIdlands Limited Telephone: 01157 526444
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Front page photograph: Ben Elton
Home is where the he-art is. Forget flowers, chocolate or illfitting underwear, if you want to impress your loved one this Valentine’s, beautifully crafted art is the way to their heart.
Ben Elton's brand new stand-up tour is coming to Nottingham. The show’s called Authentic Stupidity, and it’s all about the ridiculous things we humans do and think.
New Year, New You. Start 2025 right by investing in some stylish gym gear and look as good as your new workout routine will make you feel! Our selection effortlessly combines comfort and style.
Welcome to the latest edition of the online Nottinghamshire Aspect magazine. I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and I will take this opportunity of wishing you all a happy new year.
As we move into 2025 the magazine over the the next few months will be bringing you more features, competitions and articles for you can take a look at each month by downloading the magazine.
There are lots of things coming up at the RCH and Theatre Royal and we take a look at what events are coming up in February
If you want to get out and about, there are some great ideas of where to visit over the coming months including a great feature on Snowdrops.
Our resident food critic hits the road to sample The Air Hostess, a community owned pub in the village of Tollerton. We have some great tips to banish those January blues, that is certainly something worth reading.
Looking for some holiday inspiration? We take a look at the beautiful Spanish City
of Seville and delve into the treasures of Tuscany in Italy.
Have you thought about moving? We have some great properties in the area to take a look at if you are looking to buy a new home
There is so much going on in this edition for you to take a look at that I could go on forever telling you , but I will let you take a look
If you would like to subscribe monthly to the magazine then drop us an email to accounts@nottsaspect.co.uk and we can add you to our ever growing list, plus it won't cost you a penny!
We hope you enjoy the magazine and if you would like a story publishing, whether it be a personal story, or you would like to promote your business, then please get in touch at editorial@nottsaspect.co.uk or call us on 01157 526444.
Born and raised in Nottingham, Richard Whitehead MBE is a Paralympic Gold Medallist, professional athlete, marathon runner and is passionate about true diversity and inclusion
Richard Whitehead MBE
Having been born with a double through-knee congenital amputation, Richard developed a passion for sport at an early age, with his parents encouraging him to participate in sports and teaching him how to live a life without limits…a philosophy which has defined his life and those around him.
Over 20 years ago, Richard dreamt of running a marathon and signed up for the New York Marathon, having never run a mile! Running at that point with no prosthetic running legs and on his knees using sports cups, was extremely gruelling and painful. Thanks to Richard’s partner, Ossur, he was fitted with his first running blades and he successfully completed the marathon…the first of many!
Driven by a desire to compete in sport as a professional athlete on the world stage and push boundaries, Richard was selected for the ParalympicsGB team as a sledge hockey player at the 2006 Winter Paralympic Games in Turin. Having experienced the pride of representing his country, when news of London 2012 broke, he was keen to compete in the marathon on home soil. To his huge disappointment, he was told that his disability was not eligible to compete and was unable to race.
Undeterred, Richard set about re-training and set his sights on competing in the T42 200 metre category as part of the ParalympicsGB team, and incredibly won Gold at London 2012. Richard retained his Gold medal at Rio 2016, also winning Silver in the T42 100m, achieved four World Championship titles in 200m, and in 2019 captained the team at the Dubai Para-Athletic World Championships, and finally achieved silver in the postponed 2021 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, in T61 200m.
Following
all ages, all cultures, and all abilities. I think running as an athlete who lives with a disability enables people to see that anything is possible, if you believe in yourself.”
Since that first marathon, Richard has now completed 80 marathons (and counting!), including an epic 40 Marathons in 40 Days challenge from John O'Groats to Lands End in 2013.
the euphoria of running his first marathon in New York, Richard has gone on to compete in many marathons around the world, achieving World Champion and World Record status in the full and half marathon. An achievement he is rightfully incredibly proud of.
Richard said about taking part in marathons, “I love the camaraderie of the events, how they embrace
March 2024 saw Richard achieve a World Record for athletes with bilateral knee amputations at the TCS London Marathon, and by training and working hard throughout the year, Richard smashed his own record, running the Chicago Marathon in 2:41:36 in October. Despite his achievements on the track and the road, for Richard winning isn't about the medals, he believes strongly in the power of sport as a great unifier and leveller.
Richard tells us “Sport has the ability to unite people and to create joy, whether you are a participant or spectator, and its benefits shouldn't be under estimated. As well as the physical benefits sport and movement brings, it equally supports
Whilst I live with a physical disability, my life is rich in so many other ways and as a president of my own charity and patron of others, I encourage everyone to think about what they do have, not what they don't and to think about how they can help others and make a difference.”
Richard is keen to use his profile to work with young people and adults living with disabilities, as well as organisations and governing bodies, to ensure everyone is given greater opportunities to be involved in sport and wellness activities, ensuring inclusion, empowerment and positively throughout.
In 2021, Richard founded his own charity, the Richard Whitehead Foundation, which enables people living with disabilities’ ambitions, through the power of sport and physical activity. The charity works with people who are facing physical and emotional challenges, helping to identify and remove their barriers to engaging in sport and physical activity, supporting them to reach their full potential.
Richard is also the patron of two charities, Sarcoma UK and Footprints Conductive Education Centre, a Nottingham based charity who support children and families living with disabilities across the East Midlands. Richard is passionate about giving back, the power of volunteering and inspiring the next generation. His ambition is to create a world which is truly
inclusive and accessible for all, where everyone feels empowered and able to succeed.
2025 certainly isn’t going to be any quieter for Richard than 2024! He will be taking part in a number of marathons around the world throughout the year, including the TCS London Marathon in April and our very own Robin Hood Half Marathon in September. You can also join Richard at the annual Run with Rich event on 27 September 2025 at Holme Pierrepont. A fully accessible event where you can run, walk, push or even scoot the 5k or 1k course!
Connecting and working with organisations across the East Midlands is another of Richard’s priorities, helping to create and develop sustainable, accessible and inclusive workplaces and environments. Richard is also available as a motivational speaker, and talks passionately and inspiringly about his journey, resilience, inclusion and the power of making a difference.
Excitingly, Richard will also be launching a new and unique schools project, connecting schools across our region to ensure that PE and all activities are accessible and inclusive for all, empowering teachers, students and families across the East Midlands.
And you can watch Richard on Dare to Defy, a 3-part series now streaming on Prime Video. Join Richard and Adele Roberts as they embark on a powerful journey to transform sport, breaking down barriers and creating the most inclusive running event.
To find out more about Richard, his plans and mission, check out his website richardwhiteheadmbe.com or email enquiries@richardwhiteheadmbe.com
Archives Discovered by Nottingham Historians
Thousands of Jewish people who fled Nazi Germany as children will for the first time learn details of their journeys to freedom thanks to the discovery of historic documents by academics from Nottingham Trent University (NTU).
Records which were used by border officials in Holland - to allow Jewish children to pass through the Netherlands on trains to the UK as part of the historic Kindertransport - have been discovered in archives in Israel.
Until now it had been believed such records no longer existed, leaving those rescued by the Kindertransport without any precise knowledge of how they reached safety prior to World War II.
The records, which are copies of original files held in Holland, list the names of almost all the children who fled to the UK and Holland on the Kindertransport – up to 9,000 children – on more than 90 trains between December 1938 and August 1939. It is believed that the records were created by the Dutch Jewish Children Committee to ensure safety of passage for children travelling from Germany, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Austria and even Italy.
They include details of the children’s names, home addresses, dates of birth, parents’ names, chaperones’ names, Kindertransport numbers and departure dates. The documents were discovered in the archives at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Israel, by NTU alumna Dr Amy Williams, a freelance research fellow.
Dr Williams is now working with NTU Emeritus Professor Bill Niven to piece together the facts and make the lists available to the public.
“Since I started my research into the Kindertransport ten years ago, I was told repeatedly that the lists of children travelling to Britain and Holland did not exist,” said Dr Williams, who completed a history PhD in the School of Arts and Humanities at NTU.
“But I have found them here - these are the lists of the Kindertransportees. These lists will allow thousands of people to reconstruct their family units and understand more about their grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ lives before the horror ensued.
“Many of the Kindertransportees who are still alive today, who were so young that they cannot recall their journeys, will for the first time learn how they fled the war to start new lives in the UK and Holland.”
As part of the same project, Dr Williams is also making available separate records she discovered in the archives of the Leo Baeck Institute New York for children who left Gdansk in Poland. These documents contain the names of several hundred children for the Kindertransport from Poland, though sadly some of the children never made it onto their train.
Dr Williams has also just began working through the Austrian lists to the UK, France, Belgium, Australia, and other nations held at the new National Library of Israel.
Professor Niven said: “These documents are of huge historical significance and will help answer questions that many Jewish people have carried for their entire lives.
“It’s the first time that many people will know that they were definitely on a Kindertransport, where it travelled through, the names of those who accompanied them and other minor details that no one has ever seen before.
“It may be possible for people to trace where they lived, how many children were on their train, and the names of the children they sat next to. For some children it gives the address that they were going to.
“For those people who were on the Kindertransport but have since passed away, it will allow their children, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren to learn more about their family origins and the historic train journey that gave them freedom.”
Surviving Kindertransportee Hanna Zack Miley, 92, who now lives Arizona in the USA, said: “I am still feeling the reverberations of seeing my details on the Kindertransport list. Reclaiming the past is an ongoing journey for me.
“My first reaction was a feeling of authentication - this actually did happen, I was really there. I’m embracing more deeply both the losses and the deliverance, the saving of my life.
“I am comforted by a fresh sense of belonging to the kinder and our shared history. I think Dr Williams has gifted us with a sense of dignity, in the honouring of our story.
“Already the discovery of the lists has led to a Zoom meeting with two of Doris Aronowitz’ sons. Her name was next to mine on the list. I think it’s only the beginning.”
It is hoped that all the documents will be made available to the public through organisations such as the Association of Jewish Refugees and World Jewish Relief to allow survivors and their families to learn about their past.
Prof Bill Niven
Dr Amy Williams
New Community Woodlands in Nottingham
More than 5,000 trees will be planted in Aspley and Top Valley by Green Hustle with support from Nottingham City Council thanks to funding from Trees for Cities, the charity working across the UK to improve lives by creating greener cities.
All trees will be a wide mix of British native species to offer as much human and natural benefit as possible, and will be complemented with additional planting such as fruit trees and wildflowers to boost access to fresh food and biodiversity.
Tree canopy cover in Nottingham is estimated at 13.7 percent - which is below the minimum level of 20 percent for urban areas in the UK as recommended by Forest Research. Now Green Hustle, the Nottingham community interest company, is calling for dozens of volunteers to take part in the planting taking place each weekend in February 2025. The sessions will take place at King George V Playing Fields in Aspley.
The project aims to create volunteering opportunities for long term engagement with nature, improvement in air quality, flood resilience and reduction of heat in the city during heatwaves and more places for people to go to stay cool. It’s all part of Green Hustle’s ‘Ten Thousand Trees’ initiative which began in 2019 with the ambition of reaching the milestone of 10,000 trees planted in the city. Ten Thousand Trees aims to connect people with local nature, especially young people, children and families living in built up urban areas.
Pickering, Co-Director at Green Hustle, said: “These new community woodlands will not only bring benefits like cleaner, cooler air and more wildlife - they’ll have health and social benefits well into the future. When we get out, active, and take positive actions together with other people, we feel good. Projects like this show that when we get together we can all have an impact on the world around us. We particularly want to get local residents involved in the planting and helping to nurture the space over coming years. This will make the parks cleaner, safer and better loved. We’re setting a whole day aside for local schools to get involved in planting the trees. It’s young people who will live to see the most benefit from them.”
with less access to green space.
“None of it could happen without our inspiring volunteers. I really encourage residents to become a part of this transformative change by joining Green Hustle’s wonderful community of planters.
Following tree planting projects at Woodthorpe Park, Radford Bridge Road, Bulwell Hall Park and Amesbury Circus, this final session will see the goal achieved with an additional 4,000 trees planted at King George V Playing Fields in Aspley and 1,000 trees planted at Southglade Park in Top Valley. Local residents will be invited to form a new ‘Friends’ group to help nurture the new community woodland at King George V Playing Fields, which will include wide walkways, an expanded orchard and a glade area. Local charity Nottingham Open Spaces Forum, who connect these groups of volunteers, will support this work.
The project team hopes this will inspire more use of the large, little used green space and make it safer and more inviting for residents. Planting will take place in the area not suitable for sports pitches.
Roddy Shaw, Senior Development Manager at Trees for Cities said: "We are proud to support the Ten Thousand Trees project, which is not just planting trees but enhancing community spaces, climate resilience and spaces for wildlife. Through this partnership with Green Hustle, we’re improving Nottingham’s urban greenspaces, fostering community engagement and helping to build long-term connections with nature."
Cllr Sam Lux, Executive Member for Carbon Reduction, Leisure and Culture at Nottingham City Council, said “Nottingham City Council is absolutely delighted to support Green Hustle to plant a further 5,000 this season taking them to 10,000 in total, which very much aligns with the city’s ambitious climate and nature agenda. This project in fact takes us beyond our 50,000 tree-planting target, which is no mean feat. Like us, Green Hustle see beyond emissions and air quality statistics, as important as they are; they understand the potential power of trees to make people’s everyday lives better, and especially those communities
“I’d like to thank Green Hustle and Trees For Cities for their tireless work to green Nottingham and look forward to working with them closely in future.”
Thousands of trees are set to be planted in some of the most deprived areas of Nottingham, thanks to a partnership between Green Hustle and Trees For Cities.
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE AVIATION BOOK
With a foreword by the esteemed author Mr Ken Ellis and listing all the RFC and RAF units that were based in over thirty places in the county the book is the story of Nottinghamshire’s part in the story of the Royal Air Force and its predecessor.
For over a hundred years from the days of the Royal Flying Corps of World War One through the formation of the Royal Air Force, its 1930s pre-war expansion and World War Two, the Cold War and into the 21st Century the county has played its part in the story of the Royal Air Force. Not all places were airfields but are integral to the story.
The defence of the country especially in World War One, the air offensive by Bomber Command and the USA’s part in D-Day and Operation Market Garden in World War Two were, in
part, events that took place from RAF bases in Nottinghamshire. Training of both air and ground personnel began at places in the county during World War One and continued into the 1990s.
Many of these places have now disappeared to be replaced by housing, industry or returned to agriculture, some have left traces of their existence that can still be found but sadly many have not. One or two still have aircraft flying from them but only one remains as an RAF station.
Men and women of the air forces
of the British Isles, Empire and Commonwealth, USA, Poland and other nations have all trod the soil of the county; some still remain in the more than 70 Commonwealth War Graves sites, churchyards and cemeteries; many names are recorded on memorials to individual aircraft crashes within the county.
The author, Colin Savill is pictured with his new book in front of his recently repainted Hawke Hunter T7 aircraft at the museum’s site
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE VEGAN FESTIVAL
Vegan Events UK, organiser of vegan festivals around Britain, is pleased to announce details of its first Nottinghamshire Vegan Festival, taking place on Sunday 16th March at Rushcliffe Arena, West Bridgford. There will be over 60 fantastic stalls, world food caterers, exciting and inspirational talks and workshops running throughout the day. The festival will provide a one stop shopping experience where a wide range of vegan products and services can be found in one place and as entry is free for under-16s, it is ideal for families.
Festival organiser and founder of Vegan Events UK, Victoria Bryceson says, “I started organising events 10 years ago with the aim of promoting veganism. Our events provide people with an ultimate shopping experience where many vegan products and services can be found in one place. We provide small and family run businesses with a place to promote and sell their products and services. We aim to educate people about what veganism is and to show people how easy, affordable, healthy and varied living a vegan lifestyle can be.”
So if you are looking for a vegan space with no need for label-checking,
lots of new, innovative products and delicious food that isn’t available in the supermarket, which is also family friendly with free entry for children under 16…… you’ve come to the right place! There will be everything vegan you could possibly need all under one roof. This extravaganza will provide the ultimate inspiration for vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, those thinking about going vegan or wanting to include more vegan products in their diet – everyone is welcome.
The Nottinghamshire Vegan Festival features over 60 stalls including a huge selection of cooked foods, pies, cakes, chocolates, sandwiches and salads, beauty and skincare products, candles, cheeses, jewellery, crafts, healthy treats, sweet treats, clothing, drinks, charity merchandise, free samples and more!
Nottinghamshire’s biggest plant-powered celebration is not to be missed, with over 60 epic vegan stalls, global cuisine that will blow your mind, decadent cakes and desserts, free samples, expert talks and live demos. Discover mouth-watering world foods, ethical fashion, cruelty-free beauty, nutrition secrets, fresh juices and smoothies and much more.
Its mission is to provide a place of safety for animals in danger, to educate on the needs of neutering both pets and strays and to neuter stray dogs and cats to prevent the birth of more animals onto the streets. It also rehabilitates and re-homes dogs in need, often with disabilities, in the UK.
There is also a stall selling Bo’s Book, a vegan cook book that features simple, easy-to-follow recipes together with beautiful illustrations of dogs from animal welfare charity, Miracle’s Mission. All the profits go to help needy dogs at Miracle's Mission.
Nottinghamshire Vegan Festival takes place on Sunday 16th March 2025 between 10:30am and 4:30pm at Rushcliffe Arena, Rugby Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7HY. Standard Entry is £5 (under 16’s free) or VIP tickets are £15 to include fast track entry and a goody bag full of vegan products, samples, discounts and offers. Tickets are available from the website at
HANDMADE CHOCOLATE
Featured stalls include Miracle’s Mission, a non-
Food & Drink
THE AIR HOSTESS
The Air Hostess, a community owned pub in the village of Tollerton.
Since I have started writing reviews I have become a lot more opinionated on where to go, if I get the chance to combine a night out with friends and write a review I will take it. That sometimes means steering decisions towards places I haven’t been before.
When trying to organise a get together I relinquished all decision making to my friends and one of them suggested The Air Hostess in Tollerton. ‘YES’ I replied, I had heard good things about it for a while but it never came to mind and if it wasn’t for their suggestion I would probably still not have gone for another couple of years.
It was the crappest evening of cold wind and rain in December and I grumbled a little as I realised there wasn’t a car park, after a short dash from
the road into the pub though I was knocked down by the warmth and buzz of the place. On a wednesday night in early December it is not hyperbole to say it was rammed.
Every table was occupied and I was glad I booked a week in advance. Despite a lot of soft furnishings the buzz did sometimes border on oppressive, this may be down to a number of bigger tables out celebrating.
We decided to share some sourdough bread and whipped butters for starters. The bread was warm and the butter had a potent kick of each flavour advertised (Sweet chilli, basil pesto and marmite). Aside from my personal rule that you should never pipe anything brown, it was a great start.
I like eating out, trying new restaurants and being on the receiving end of great hospitality. I am a mum with 2 children (one baby, one 9 year old) so I include how the places I visit work for families. I have worked in bars, cafes, restaurants and pubs for most of my life. Good places should be supported, celebrated and shared.
FOOD CRITIC
My two friends ordered fish and chips and steak, the portions were generous and had the reassurance that they were made in house. An impressive feat for a menu that contains over 20 options, the kitchen must be a hive of efficiency. I don’t think the place could have been much busier but both the service and the food were prompt.
I had ordered the Halibut loin with braised leeks, new potatoes and a lobster bisque. While I was waiting for it I was worrying. ‘The fish might not be fresh’, ‘Can they get through enough fish here to keep standards high?’.
When it arrived I was reassured, the loin was massive and meaty. It was a little overcooked on its side but I will take that anyday over a slimy, undercooked centre. It is one of the best fish dishes I have had in Nottingham and to get it in a reasonably priced pub dining room on a Wednesday impressed me. Well seasoned and rich with the butter that had been used to cook the fish I chastised myself for worrying. The potatoes and braised leeks were silky and smooth under the bisque which was light on flavour but as a result didn’t overwhlem. The dish left me on such a high I decided I needed a pudding to make sure this wasn’t all a fluke.
The Air Hostess know how to decorate for the festive season so I decided to embrace it and go for a crumble. Redcurrents tossed aside, I wondered if it looked a bit……. anemic and hoped that the taste of raw flour wouldn’t be the lingering memory. It wasn’t. The crumble was buttery and delicate with a single layer of fruit underneath it and a beautiful custard that was a fulcrum between thick, sweet ambrosia and disappointing, runny creme anglaise.
The Air Hostess is a triumph and has left me thinking I worry too much and I should let my friends chose the venues more often.
50% OFF MAINS AT MARCO PIERRE WHITE
Diners looking to enjoy a meal out in January 2025 can head to Marco Pierre White’s restaurant which is located on Wollaton Street where they can tuck into a main course for half the price!
Available at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, anyone who fancies a meal that’s been devised by the renowned chef and restaurateur, will be able to do so for just 50% of the normal price.
Including all main courses* it means anyone who wants to go out for a celebration, date night or just to enjoy a meal out, can do so knowing it will be superb value for money.
Jolanta Szulczynska, food and beverage manager said: “This is a fantastic offer. With the New Year being a time when a lot of people tighten their belts following the over-indulgence of Christmas, to enjoy a main course for half the price is a great way to go out for a meal.
“We have a wonderful variety of main course dishes so there’s plenty of choice for guests to select from. This includes Roast Chicken à la Forestière, Roast Rump of Lamb à la Dijonnaise, Escalope of Salmon ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ and a Mixed Mediterranean Vegetable Ravioli.
“On the seasonal specials there’s also Roast Cod with Lentils & Pancetta, Simpson’s Cottage Pie, Wheeler’s of St James’s Fishcake and a Pea & Shallot Ravioli.
“Marco’s philosophy on eating out is about simple, authentic food, served in a great environment with a relaxed atmosphere. We serve classic, recognisable dishes that sit perfectly with his ethos of casual, authentic and affordable dining and this offer makes it even more attractive.”
* available on all main courses for pre booked tables, Monday to Thursday off main section of the à la carte menu; does not include steak dishes
One Pot Wonders
One-pot dinner recipes are our go-to favourite, easy-to-prep, nutritious, delicious and the perfect meal for the whole family to enjoy.
Pumpkin Bake: Tomato & Egg One Pot
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
• 4 medium British Lion eggs
• 400g pumpkin, peeled and cut into 2cm chunks
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400g tin of cherry tomatoes
• 400g tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 150g baby spinach
• Small handful parsley, roughly chopped M ethod:
1. P reheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/ Gas Mark 6.
2. Place the pumpkin into a microwavable bowl along with 2 tbsp water and the olive oil, ground cumin and coriander. Cover with clingfilm and cook in the microwave on high for 10 minutes, until soft.
3. Place a 20cm oven-proof skillet over
medium-high heat and add the pumpkin, along with the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer, then stir through the spinach.
4. Make 4 indents in the pan mixture and crack an egg into each one.
5. Place the skillet into the oven for around 10 minutes, or until the whites are set. Remove from the oven, season the eggs with salt and pepper and sprinkle over the parsley.
• 1 medium courgette, halved lengthways and sliced
• 4 large British Lion eggs
• Handful of mixed seeds
Method:
1.Heat oil in a medium frying pan, add the onion and peppers and cook over a medium to high heat for 5 minutes until soft and golden.
2. Stir in the garlic and cumin and cook for a minute. Stir in the courgettes, then add the tomatoes and bring to the boil.
3. Season to taste, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes until the courgettes are just tender.
4. Make four holes in the mixture with a wooden spoon and crack in the eggs, then cook until the whites start to turn solid white.
5. Cover with a pan lid and cook over a low heat for 4-5 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
6. Scatter with seeds and serve spooned onto plates.
Serves 4
Egg and Chorizo Casserole
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time:20 minutes
Ingredients:
• 175g chorizo, sliced and chopped
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 clove of garlic, crushed
• 4 celery sticks, sliced
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped in 1cm cubes
• 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
• 450g cooked tinned chickpeas, drained
• 200ml vegetable stock
• 2 large British Lion eggs, beaten
• 4 large British Lion eggs
• Chopped parsley to serve
Method:
1. In a deep, heavy bottomed pan, fry the
chorizo for two minutes and then remove from the pan.
2. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic and celery and cook until soft. Add the cubed sweet potato and tomatoes and cook for five minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas and stock to the pan and return the chorizo. Mix well, season and cook for ten minutes.
4. Stir in the beaten eggs and parsley until the eggs are cooked.
5. Make four wells in the mixture then carefully crack an egg into each hollow. Cover and cook for five minutes or until set.
6. Add a sprinkle of parsley and serve.
Making More Room
Converting your loft is a practical and rewarding way to create more space in your house. Whether you need an extra bedroom, a home office, a playroom, or simply more storage, a loft conversion can meet your needs while adding value to your property. Here are some steps and considerations to help you make the most of your loft conversion.
Assess Feasibility
Before you start, assess the feasibility of a loft conversion. Check the height, pitch, and structure of your roof. Ideally, you need a minimum head height of 2.2 meters to ensure the space is usable. Consult with a structural engineer to evaluate whether your roof structure can support the conversion.
Plan Your Space
Decide how you want to use the space. This will determine the design and layout. For a bedroom, you'll need space for a bed and storage. For an office, consider desk space and shelving. Sketch out a rough floor plan to visualize the space.
Structural Considerations
Reinforce the floor if necessary. Loft floors may need strengthening to support additional weight. Install appropriate insulation to make the space comfortable year-round. Proper insulation also helps in soundproofing and energy efficiency.
Lighting and Ventilation
Maximize natural light by installing skylights or dormer windows. These also provide ventilation, which is crucial for maintaining air quality. Plan for artificial lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lights to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Access
Ensure safe and practical access to your loft. A staircase is the best option, but it needs to be carefully designed to fit within the existing structure. Spiral staircases or compact designs can save space.
Utilities
Consider the placement of utilities like heating, electricity, and plumbing. You may need to extend existing systems or install new ones. This is crucial if you're adding a bathroom or kitchenette.
Finishing Touches
Choose finishes and furnishings that complement the rest of your home. Use light colours to make the space feel larger and more open. Built-in storage solutions can maximize space and keep the area clutterfree.
Budget
Set a realistic budget and include a contingency for unexpected expenses. Loft conversions can be cost-effective compared to building extensions, but costs can vary depending on the complexity of the project.
Professional Help
Hiring professionals like architects, builders, and interior designers can ensure your loft conversion is done to a high standard. They can provide valuable advice and manage the project efficiently.
By converting your loft, you can effectively increase the living space in your home, making it more functional and enjoyable. Whether you're accommodating a growing family or creating a personal retreat, a loft conversion is a worthwhile investment.
BE MY
VALEN TINE
Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14, is a holiday dedicated to expressing love and affection. Where people show appreciation for their partners and loved ones, through gestures like giving flowers, chocolates, writing love notes, or a special gift. Here's a few ideas to get you started.
Love Block Letters Door Mat, Heavenly Homesand Gardens £27
Pink Gooseye Recycled Wool Throw, Country Mouse £72
Groove Inn Young Hearts Ruffle Cushion, Weirdstock £55
Personalised Luxury Valentine's Gift Box Martha Brook
Vintage Rose Heart Suitcases (x 2) Meri Meri, £36
Retro Soy Candle Gift, Ingenious Gifts £24.95
H ME IS WHERE THE HE-ART IS
Coastal-inspired creative studio Beach House Art, has compiled their ultimate gift guide designed to impress and inspire the loved one in your life – including two new prints for 2025. From maps with meaning to personalised prints, this specially curated collection has been hand-picked to ramp up the
All You Need Is Love, from £18 Lennon and McCartney’s lyrics say it all really…all you need is love –especially on Valentine’s Day. This gorgeous book-inspired print will bring joy and happiness, and a little bit of an earworm that will take forever to forget.
Asparagus Painting on Red Gingham Print, from £18. Asparagus is said to be the food of love – making this fabulous print the perfect piece of kitchen art. Bright, bold and colourful, this is a gorgeous piece that will raise a smile each day.
romance this Valentine’s Day.
Forget
flowers, chocolate or ill-fitting underwear, if you want to impress your loved one this Valentine’s, beautifully crafted art is the way to their heart
Sarah Weare, Co-Founder of Beach House Art, said: “Art is a unique way to show a loved one just how much they mean to you. This Valentine’s Day, give a gift that is both beautiful and personal – and will last a lot longer than a bunch of flowers!”
Spoonbill (pink) Vintage Art Print, from £18. With its blush of pink and statement elegance, this fabulous Spoonbill Bird print is a statement piece that commands attention. It exudes class and charm and the vintage-esque finish ensures it will slot seamlessly into place in most homes.
Personalised Date Print, from £18. Another customisable option, this striking typographic piece can be personalised with a significant date and the names of the happy couple. Perfect for those who need a gentle reminder of their wedding anniversary.
Beautiful Fan Weed No.2 Seaweed Print, from £32. Looking for a fresh take on the botanical vibe? This seaweed print certainly packs a punch with colour and will outlast any bouquet of flowers.
Personalised Mape With Heart Location Pin, from £18. This fully customisable piece features bespoke options for the couple’s name, a location special to them and a significant date. Whether it’s to celebrate your wedding, a fabulous first date or where you met, this personalised map print is a lovely commemorative piece.
All available to order
The Year of the snake
Our New Year may have been and gone but the Chinese celebration of New Year takes place later in the year. Hailed as the most important celebration in Chinese culture, it is also often referred to as Lunar New Year globally and the date of the festivities change every year, but always falls between 21 January - 20 February.
Each New Year celebration will also centre on a different animal that represents a different horoscope sign. This year the event will be taking place on 29 January and will be the Year of the Snake.
Chinese New Year is associated with a number of different myths and customs and was traditionally seen as a time to honour deities and ancestors. It is also customary for families to clean their house thoroughly from top to bottom as a way of sweeping away ill-fortune and making way for good luck.
Just as we do at Christmas, it’s also commonplace for Chinese families to decorate their windows and doors with red paper-cuts and couplets. Other traditional activities that many people across China will partake in include lighting firecrackers and giving money out in red envelopes.
Chinese New Year Gala 2025 Lakeside Arts, University of Nottingham, 4pm & 6pm Sunday 2 February, £10
Join Lakeside Arts to welcome the Year of the Snake! The show will weave together a dazzling combination of the contemporary and traditional, with performances including enchanting Chinese Guzheng and Pipa music, edgeof-your-seat group Kung Fu routines and a spectacular lion dance.
Embrace the spirit of renewal, wisdom and
What 's On
If you are looking forward to a night out here’s our roundup of the top events happening in february.
Coming to England
28 January to 1 February
Theatre Royal Nottingham
what’s on in February 2025 at the joseph and the technicolour dreamcoat
£17 to £33.50 plus discounts for Members*, Under 26s, Groups, Schools, and Families
Age Guidance 7+
Varna International Ballet
30 January to 1 February
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£25.50 to £49 plus Members*, Under 26s, Families, and Groups
Age Guidance 5+
Ben Elton - Authentic Stupidity
Sunday 2 February 7:30pm
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£35
Wet Wet Wet plus special guest
Heather Small
Monday 3 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£37 to £130.50 (VIP)
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Wednesday 5 to Saturday 15 February
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£25 to £63 plus discounts for Members*,
Under 26s, Families and Groups
Age Guidance 4+
Oasiz
wet wet wet oasiz
Thursday 6 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£29.50
Queen Extravaganza
Saturday 8 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£26 to £51.50
Limited Availability
Sunday Piano Series: Siqian Li
Sunday 9 February 11:00am
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£13.50 plus Multibuy package and discounts for Under 26s and full-time students
Age Guidance 7+
Prague Symphony Orchestra
Tuesday 11 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£12 to £41 plus Multibuy packages and discounts for Groups, Under 26s and fulltime students
Age Guidance 7+
Celebrating Celine
Thursday 13 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£33
Matthew Bourne’s New AdventuresSwan Lake
Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 February
Theatre
Royal Nottingham
£28 to £60 plus discounts for Members*,
Under 26s, and Groups
Age Guidance 5+
Nashville At Heart
Tuesday 18 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£29.50
Age Guidance 11+
theatre royal & royal concert hall
man in the mirror
Cirque Enchantment
Wednesday 19 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£34 to £39
James Martin Live
Thursday 20 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£33.50 to £49.50
Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe
Friday 21 February 8:00pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£28.50, Age Guidance: Strictly 16+ Limited Availability
Seriously Collins
Sunday 23 February 7:30pm
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£28.50 to £31.50
Man in the Mirror
Monday 24 February 7:30pm
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£29.50 to £34, Age Guidance 8+
Killer Couples
Tuesday 25 February 7:30pm
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£31
Age Guidance 16+
BBC Philharmonic: Discovering Bliss
Wednesday 26 February
7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£16 plus discounts for Groups, Under 26s and full-time students
Age Guidance 7+
The Shark is Broken
Wednesday 26 February to Saturday 1 March
Theatre Royal Nottingham
£18 to £45.50 plus discounts for Members*, Under 26s, and Groups, Age Guidance 14+
Sing-a-long-a The Greatest Showman
Thursday 27 February 7:00pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£20 plus discounts for Under 16s and Groups
The film is rated PG
Have A Word
Friday 28 February 7:30pm
Royal Concert Hall Nottingham
£28.50 Age Guidance 16+
To book tickets for any of these events go to www.trch.co.uk or call the Box Office on 0115 989 5555.
The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show is set to return to the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham from Tuesday 18 - Sunday 23 February 2025, spanning almost 20 acres of the NEC. The UK’s biggest start of the year leisure vehicle and camping show will host a star-studded line-up of celebrity speakers including household favourites including The One Show’s very own Alex Jones, Springwatch presenter and zoologist, Megan McCubbin, wildlife cameraman and Camping and Caravan Club President, Hamza Yassin, Greatest Hits Radio presenter Jenny Powell, former tennis pro’, campervanner and Caravan and Motorhome Club member, Annabel Croft and former pro footballer and Birmingham City legend Paul Devlin.
The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show also will also present over 420 leading exhibitors, bringing together more than 700 of the very latest motorhomes, caravans and campervans, plus hundreds of tents, accessories, outdoor gear, campsites and destinations - all under one roof. As well as checking out the latest makes, models and innovations in tech, gadgets, accessories and all things camping, the Inspiration Theatre will be the place for visitors to immerse themselves in inspiring stories from leaders in the world of outdoor and get itineraries and ideas for 2025 adventures at no extra cost.
Seasoned adventurers and novices alike will be able to step inside and compare over 700 innovative new leisure vehicles from leading UK and European manufacturers.
After a year’s hiatus, UK brands Elddis, Buccaneer and Xplore return to the Show to exclusively reveal a host of exciting new models. Other leading manufacturers and brands exhibiting include Adria, Auto-Sleepers, Auto-Trail, Bailey of Bristol, Bessacarr, Carthago, Chausson, Coachman, Dethleffs, Eura Mobil, Frankia, Giottiline, Globecar, Hymer, Itineo, Joa Camp, Knaus, Malibu, Mobilvetta, Morelo, Pilote, Rapido, Rimor, Roller Team, Swift, T@B, Weinsberg and many more.
Campervan fans will be delighted to find even more pop-top, high top and AWD models on display. Affinity RV, Bilbo’s,
Bodans, Campersales, Citroen, Dirty Weekender, Dreamer, Ecowagon, Hillside Leisure, Jans Lifestyle, Kaktus Vans, Knights Custom Conversions, Mega Mobil, Murvi, Project Yonder, Rolling Homes, Tourne Mobil, Vantage Motorhomes, Westfalia, Wildax and other top manufacturers and converters will be showing new models with a huge choice of layouts built on a variety of chassis – including VW, Mercedes, MAN, Ford, Fiat and Renault.
A fantastic selection of quality frame, inflatable, fixed and drive away awnings to extend leisure vehicle living space will be pitched-up from the biggest brands including Dometic, Dorema, Isabella, Olpro, Outdoor Revolution, Telta, Thule, Vango and Trigano. Plus, all the necessary technology and kit to make touring hassle free and enjoyable will be available– think levelling systems, electric caravan movers, batteries, security systems, solar panels, satellite systems, wifi and much, much more!
A new Adventure Camping Zone will feature compact, lightweight tents designed for backpacking, hiking, cycle touring and mountaineering, all pitched at the foot of the Peak Climbing Wall - a free activity for active adventurers and families to enjoy.
As well as the latest leisure vehicles, tents and camping equipment, the Show provides expert advice on getting started, inspiration about where to travel to and the opportunity to try a host of free activities to enhance their enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Free Towing Experiences* with Subaru, under the expert supervision of the Camping & Caravanning Club, will give visitors the opportunity to learn how easy towing a caravan can be and those interested in owning a motorhome or campervan, can book onto free campervan or motorhome manoeuvring sessions* with the Caravan and Motorhome Club.
The Inspiration Theatre is the place to discover new holiday locations, routes and itineraries as well as hear from special guests who share a love of the Great Outdoors. Talks on breathtaking
destinations including Scotland, Portugal, Switzerland and Norway will feature alongside cooking demonstrations and unmissable road trip stories.
For practical and technical help and advice on leisure vehicle ownership, visitors can head to the Advice Hub. Ask The Expert Q&A’s, free Tow Checks, security advice, essential tips for travelling with pets and insights from top outdoor influencers and bloggers will be on offer to get visitors road-ready.
TICKETS
are now on sale at ccmshow.co.uk for just £13.00 (including parking), saving £3.50 on the door price of £16.50. Early booking is advised, as tickets may sell out. Children under 16 years attend free with a paying adult (max of 2 kids per adult)
FOLLOW the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates
And it’s fresh ideas which have always driven his ground breaking Stand Up comedy routines plenty of which will be being explored in Ben’s brand new standup tour – his first since 2019 (the previous one having been 15 years before that). The show’s called Authentic Stupidity, and it’s all about the ridiculous things we humans do and think.
“The tour title is a little joke about how we’re all saying that Artificial Intelligence is this great threat to humanity, which of course it is, but I reckon the biggest threat is actually Authentic Stupidity! Never mind AI, let’s start by worrying about AS! But really all my tours could Have been called Authentic Stupidity, because they’re always comic explorations of the essential absurdity of existence. I think all good comedy is” explains Elton.
“I’ve always done that in my routines. Sharing my own fears and joys and exasperations. Just being as funny as I can about the shit that’s on my mind”.
“Every part of my comedy is an exploration of human inadequacy,” he says, using Blackadder as one of his earliest examples “Blackadder thinks he’s so clever but his vanity, his jealousy and his ambition screw him every time. We need to accept that we are not everything and that we don’t know everything. If we did that I think we’d do less harm to ourselves and to the planet. The world would probably be a lot nicer and safer if we all embraced our inner Baldrick!”
That’s not to say this is all misanthropy, though. “In some ways, the world is better now. I think younger people have started to accept that weakness is OK; that weakness is merely an acknowledgement that you might need help, that you aren’t necessarily the thing you want to be or that people expect you to be. All these things that we used to hide are coming out more.”
technology is going wrong. (His most recent novel, Identity Crisis, has some clever themes about how technology is deployed in the stoking of culture wars with nefarious intentions.)
“Personally, I would rather the internet wasn’t around because, although it’s an ingenious and useful, it’s destroying democracy as we speak because we’re too stupid to tell the difference between verifiable facts and undiluted arse porridge,” he says.
“And now we’ve invented AI, I mean how stupid is that? If a terrorist went on television and said, ‘We’ve come up with a machine that will literally make human beings redundant we’d send in MI5! We’d think this is a genuinely existential threat to the future of humanity. But because this is a bunch of tech bros and billionaires in California, we’re all just going, ‘Oh well, apparently it’s going to be able to write new Beatles songs.’” So is he looking forward to his new tour? “Absolutely there’s just so much to talk about. Finding the funny has never been more important”.
Interestingly, Elton doesn’t think of himself as being a great comic performer; for him it’s all about his writing, which he’s repeatedly proven himself to be great at, ever since the cult sitcom The Young Ones hit BBC Two in 1982.
“Look, I think I can be pretty funny in my delivery but it would be nothing without the material. I’m not a natural clown who can get a laugh just pulling a face”, He recalls taking his wife and then young children to the home of pal Rowan Atkinson, with whom he worked on Blackadder, The Thin Blue Line and Mr Bean.
“Rowan was handing out the cakes and the cat was lurking nearby and appeared about to pounce. Rowan removed the fondant fancies and then without any knowledge of doing it, he did a little mime of an outraged cat,” he says. “For a moment, he inhabited the creature in front of him and the kids and us fell about. It was perfect. I couldn’t do that. I could be funny in conversation, but my funny bones are all about the words.”
BEN E LTON BEN ELTON’S ALWAYS HAD A LOT TO SAY.
There are, of course, aspects of modern life that have emphatically not improved, in his opinion. And while insisting he’s not a luddite, he’s acutely aware of where
He’s doing himself down a bit though: he did a cracking job hosting the one-off revival of Friday Night Live –the variety showcase of comic talent – for
Channel 4 in 2022. The show wouldn’t have won the Bafta against some stiff competition if he wasn’t a great performer. The Guardian described his set as “bracingly topical and outspoken”, while The Times said: “Elton has still got it, oh yes he has.”
It’s fascinating learning how a comedian’s early forays into stand-up can shape their persona. Those accustomed to today’s (relatively) polite audiences would blanche at the often-brutal atmosphere of the Comedy Store in London, where Elton – along with the likes of Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, French & Saunders and Jo Brand – cut his teeth.
“Back then it was two shows a night, the early one at 10pm, then one at midnight, in a strip club in Soho. It was 1981, Brixton was in flames, Thatcher was starting her ten-year war on society and sometimes audiences were tense and angry,” he explains.
“People weren’t tuned into what we now call alternative comedy, which I would describe as the comedy of ideas, where you use your own principles and beliefs to form your own comedy. That’s certainly what I did. People were used to comedians who told jokes and part of the joke might be about dealing with hecklers, so there was this idea that that was what a comic did –they dealt with hecklers. I hate hecklers. I’ve never
heard a witty heckle. They’re mythical.”
If you’re on stage trying to make a point, to deliver a complicated idea using a riff that’ll reach a satisfying conclusion, you need people to listen. How on earth do you do that with some drunk being authentically stupid?
“I developed what was probably an overly combative style just to shut the idiots down” says Elton. “It took me a long time to get out of the shadow of the gong.”
But over a life time of hugely successful stand up he’s learnt to have faith in audiences’ –partly because they’re now paying to see him specifically, unlike in those days when they’d show up and be presented with a line-up of unknowns.
“I learnt not to trust them, thinking that, if I paused, someone would shout out,” he says. “I can pause a little bit now, but I still don’t pause much because I’ve just got too much to say.”
Candlelight presents exclusive Bridgerton concert in Nottingham
Featuring hits from the beloved series played by a local string quartet, this unique live multi-sensory musical experience will transform the National Justice Museum with a captivating setting
Netflix, Shondaland, and Fever have partnered to bring an exclusive Bridgerton concert by Candlelight®, featuring hits from the beloved series, and it is coming to Nottingham. This unique live multi-sensory musical experience will light up the National Justice Museum with thousands of candles transporting guests to the Regency era in England.
With three seasons now streaming on Netflix, Bridgerton continues to enchant audiences worldwide, and this special event promises an unforgettable evening in a captivating setting. The setlist includes Billie Eilish's Bad Guy, thank u, next by Ariana Grande, Give Me Everything by Pitbull, Afrojack, Ne-Yo and Nayer, Cheap Thrills by Sia, and more performed by a local talented string quartet.
This exclusive Bridgerton experience will be hosted in selected cities worldwide with limited tickets available. Outstanding venues in Madrid, Manchester, Sydney, Berlin, Rome, Rio de Janeiro, and
more will be transformed into the most fashionable set of the season, enchanting diamond hearts worldwide.
Candlelight® is a series of live concerts produced by Fever, designed to democratize access to classical music. This innovative format offers a unique musical experience through a diverse selection of programs, catering to all tastes. Performed by talented local musicians in iconic venues illuminated by thousands of candles, Candlelight creates an immersive and intimate atmosphere.
Candlelight draws in a broad audience, including those who may have never considered attending a classical music concert. Audiences can connect with the masterpieces of composers like Vivaldi, Mozart, and Chopin, while also enjoying fresh interpretations of popular hits from artists like Queen, ABBA, Coldplay, and Ed Sheeran. The Candlelight brand is present in over 150 cities worldwide and has delighted millions of guests since its launch.
Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings will be performing at the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Mar 14 at 6pm & 8.30pm, Mar 22 6pm & 8.30pm, Apr 4 at 6pm & 8.30pm and Apr 11 at 6pm & 8.30pm
Tickets from £25.00 and can be purchased at www.feverup.com/m/272193
TATTOO ART EXHIBITION AT MANSFIELD MUSEUM
A new exhibition has opened at Mansfield Museum which aims to show that the fascinating world of tattooing is more than skin deep.Tattooing in the UK - Miners, Misconceptions and His Majesty is free and runs until Saturday 29 March.
It delves into the artistry, cultural significance, and evolving perceptions of tattoos, highlighting their place within British society. Local tattoo artist Sean Colgrave inspired the venue to stage the exhibition after he met members of staff at an out-of-hours event in the museum called “cocktails with the collection” last year.
The museum worked closely with Sean to shape the displays and source exhibits, some of which have been loaned by Liverpool Tattoo Museum.
The exhibition also features hundreds of images of local people taken by Ian Dearman, Development Officer for Digital, after the museum set up a popup studio in the Four Seasons Shopping Centre and invited members of the public to have their tattoos photographed.
Sean said: “We are dead excited to have the museum run this exhibition. Tattoos are more than just skin deep. They are history, art - and sometimes the best or worst conversation starter at family dinners! The exhibition explores tattoo history, debunks a few myths and gives body art a well deserved spotlight within the wider context of fine art. This exhibition shows that tattoos are no less artistic than the oils on canvas beside it. The art is simple, bold and timeless. It deserves to be framed and admired.
“The beauty of tattoos is they
always tell a story – maybe where you have come from or maybe where you are going. They celebrate individuality, culture, and life itself. Tattoos have long been part of British working class life. For miners, sailors and soldiers, getting inked wasn’t about keeping up with trends and looking good on Instagram; it was about survival and identity, and culture.
“There are tattoos from all around the world at the exhibition from islands in south Pacific to the skin stitching techniques of the Inuit in Canada. Even UK royalty has been inked. Body art has been around for a very very long time – you can find out just how long if you come along to the exhibition. And maybe after you have seen it, you’ll want to join the worldwide tattoo community. But don’t worry, we won’t tell your mum!”
Cllr Stuart Richardson, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Growth, said; “The exhibition is part of our work with developing artists under our objectives as a National Portfolio Organisation. “We really want to work with our local communities - and offer new experiences to visitors.
“This is yet another a really unusual and thought provoking exhibition that we are very proud to present. Tattoo culture is strong in Mansfield so it should have wide appeal.
“I would like to thank Sean for reaching out and for his invaluable collaboration with us.”
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm. The exhibition is wheelchair accessible. For more information go to www.mansfield.gov.uk/ museum/exhibitions.
BOY MEETS GIRL
This February, Nottingham Playhouse presents the UK regional premiere of BAFTA, Tony, Emmy and Olivier winning Dennis Kelly's (Matilda the Musical, DNA and Utopia) Girls & Boys.
The 90-minute one-woman show combines savage humor with raw intensity, starring Nottingham-born Aisling Loftus (Sherwood, BBC; Mr Selfridge, ITV) in a powerhouse performance. Aisling said:
“I’m over the moon to be working on this and to be doing it in Nottingham is very exciting (and scary). It’s a funny, dark, unforgettable play. I can’t wait to get started.”
Directed by Anna Ledwich, Girls & Boys showcases Kelly’s signature style, blending biting comedy with unflinching examinations of human nature.
"It is a funny, provocative, shocking and moving play,
which lures you in, charms you, then pulls the rug out from under you. It’s a magnificent tour-de-force for an outstanding actress and Aisling has the wit, vulnerability and power to make this play sing. I can’t wait to unpack the play’s mysteries with her.”
The play starts as a typical love story – boy meets girl, sparks fly, and an intense relationship begins. They settle down, have children and live ordinary, chaotic lives. But beneath the normality, a disturbing undercurrent is growing.
Their seemingly perfect world unravels, revealing shocking truths about what really goes on behind closed doors. It promises to be an unmissable highlight of the Nottingham Playhouse season.
8 Feb - 1 March 2025 Nottingham
Aisling Loftus & George Boden in Touched, Nottingham Playhouse 2017
Award-winning musician Matt Goss announces dates
brand new uk tour for 2025
Phil McIntyre Live are thrilled to announce that ‘The New King of Las Vegas’ and award-winning musician Matt Goss will embark upon a brand new tour for 2025. Matt Goss: The Hits & More will be a celebration of all Matt has achieved in his music career and beyond. Kicking off in Plymouth on the 7th March, Matt will take in a further 20 dates including a night at the Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham on
This tour will mark an eagerly anticipated return to the live UK music scene for Matt following his smash hit tour in 2023. Matt, who has performed in the States for an astounding 11 years initially headed to the Palms Casino for one year only. The show became an instant success and he subsequently performed the show at the iconic Caesars Palace for the remainder of his Vegas residency. Whilst in the US, Goss performed in world renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden and even officially hailed August 8th as Matt Goss
Bringing sensational songs, and an electric atmosphere this show promises to be the biggest and best night out with this
On announcing the UK tour Matt Goss said: “Trust me, what I’ve learnt over the years being on countless stages around the world, this will be your best night of the
Matt Goss burst on to the global entertainment scene as lead singer of the English pop sensation, BROS. Goss quickly became the youngest artist to sell out and headline the world- famous Wembley Stadium, performing to a crowd of more than 77,000 fans. He played a record 19 consecutive nights to more than 200,000 fans at Wembley Arena and broke a world record selling out 2 nights at the O2 Arena in London, (40,000 tickets) in an unbelievable 7 seconds. He has performed twice for her majesty, the Queen and has taken his award-winning shows to the most prestigious venues around the world including the Royal
2018 saw the release of the BAFTA winning movie about his and his brother’s life entitled ‘After the Screaming Stops.’ Following a national theatre release, the movie went on to become the most downloaded BBC production in 2018 and it has been roundly hailed as “The greatest music documentary of all time”
Photograph courtesy
Paul Harris
A MUSIC CELEBRATION
JAMPACKED WITH SONGS FROM SOME OF THE BIGGEST MUSICAL ICONS OF ALL TIME, COUNTRY HITS LIVE, WITH ITS WORLD CLASS SINGERS AND AWARD-WINNING MUSICIANS, WILL TRANSPORT AUDIENCES DIRECT TO NASHVILLE.
The show takes audiences on a journey through the history of country music, from the 50s and 60s hits of Johnny Cash, to the wide-reaching music of Dolly Parton, all the way to the country-pop songs of Shania Twain and Taylor Swift.
A show fit for cowboys and honky tonk queens everywhere, audiences will be treated to the biggest hits in country music, including ‘Jolene’, ‘Ring of Fire’, ‘Islands in the Stream’, ‘Man I Feel Like A Woman’ and ‘Love Story’.
Country Hits Live is fronted by Jade Helliwell and Lars Pluto, alongside an award-winning 6-piece band. Born in West Yorkshire, Jade Helliwell has established herself as one of the UK’s leading Country musicians, winning the British Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year award three times.
Having performed at the likes of Country2Country and The Long Road, Jade’s powerful vocals will captivate audiences.
Garnering widespread acclaim whilst starring in international smash hits such as the Everly Brothers tribute show Walk Right Back, Lars Pluto encapsulates the essence of country music, his vocals transporting audiences to Nashville.
Before Country Hits Live heads out on the road next spring, audiences can catch a special Christmas version of the show in London on 14th December and Norwich on 15th December. Jade and Lars will perform popular Christmas songs with a ‘country twist’, as well singing iconic Country hits.
A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF THE BEST COUNTRY SONGS OF ALL TIME WILL BE TOURING THE UK IN SPRING 2025
THE SHOW COMES TO NEWARK PALACE THEATRE APRIL 3RD. TICKETS ON-SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.CO.UK
Whats on at Mansfield palace theatre
In 2025, 74% of Brits are expected to make new year's resolutions. Why not make yours something achievable as well as enjoyable and make a vow to visit your local theatre more? Our January to March programme is on sale now with shows for all ages and tastes – from rock to pop and classical music to comedy, read on to find out more about what you can see on our stage in the coming months…
We’ve got music tributes aplenty with Ultimate Classic Rock Show on Friday 7 February, The Elton John Show on Saturday 8 February, Spice Girls Experience on Saturday 15 February, Twist and Shout on Friday 21 February, A Vision of Elvis on Thursday 27 February, That’ll be the Day on Tuesday 18 March, Lost in Music on Thursday 20 March, Calling Planet Earth on Friday 21 March, Go Your Own Way on Wednesday 26 March and Big Girls Don’t Cry on Thursday 27 March.
Spend Valentine’s Day (Friday 14 February) with us at Flowers and Friendship Bracelets – the ultimate pop tribute to Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter.
Our classical programme continues with our friends at Music in the Round presenting two shows on Monday 17 February. The Giddy Goat (11am) is inspired by the beloved children’s book, bringing the story to life through enchanting original music, performed by strings, wind, and piano. Then in the evening (7.30pm), join us to be seated on stage in an intimate setting for Mozart Masterpieces, featuring talented string players alongside horn and clarinet, who come together to perform three of Mozart’s most cherished masterpieces: the beautifully melodic Clarinet Quintet, the soulful Horn Quintet, and the poignant yet uplifting String Quintet in G.
We’ve got some great comedy shows coming up this season, starting with Comedy Club 4 Kids during half term on Tuesday 18 February, and shortly followed by our regular Comedy Store on Saturday
22 February. Award winning comedian Phil Walker brings his Happy Bunny stand up tour to the Palace stage on Saturday 1 March.
If you’ve not been swept up by Wicked mania lately, where have you been?! We’re so excited to present Wickedly Ariana on Wednesday 19 February where Hannah Thomas with her band and dancers will take you on a magical journey of all Ariana Grande’s greatest hits, plus songs from the blockbuster movie and musical fantasy Wicked.
The Queenz are back by popular demand on Thursday 20 February with Drag me to the Disco! Join the gals for an electrifying, live vocal, drag-stravaganza, where dancing Queenz and disco dreams collide for the party of a lifetime.
Join TaleGate Theatre Productions on an adventure that is toad-ally wild on Saturday 22 February! Our spring panto, The Frog Prince, will be packed with songs, slapstick, silliness, audience participation, and fairytale magic… You’d be hopping mad to miss it!
Mariposa DeNada Dance Theatre preset a modern remake of Puccini's Madame Butterfly at the Palace Theatre on Friday 28 February. Join us for this groundbreaking LGBTQ+ danceopera set in Cuba featuring stunning costumes, Latin and Caribbean music. Better still, you can grab tickets for a tenner using the code ‘somethingnew’ online or at Box Office!
The Olivier award winning improvised musical, Showstopper!, comes
to town on Wednesday 12 March. A brand-new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this awardwinning show as audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into all-singing, all-dancing productions with hilarious results.
Steve Steinman celebrates 22 years of his epic Vampires Rock chronicle with a new beginning and chapter - the brand-new original rock musical, Eternal Love, on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 March. With a full cast of amazing singers, dancers and musicians, this truly is a night for musical theatre and rock fans alike.
As always, we encourage you to support local talent as our own Senior Youth Theatre present Port Manteau on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 February. Additionally, Mansfield Operatic Society return to present the timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz, from Wednesday 5 to Sunday 9 March.
We also continue to present our Exhibition on Screen series in conjunction with our friends at Mansfield Museum. Join us in the Leeming Lounge on Friday 28 February for our showing of the life and works of Frida Kahlo and Friday 21 March for Canaletto and the Art of Venice.
Tickets for all events can be purchased online 24/7 at mansfieldpalace.co.uk or you can visit or call Box Office on 01623 463133 during office hours. We can’t wait to welcome you soon.
Varna international ballet
RG Live presents the return of the celebrated Varna International Ballet and Orchestra to the UK following a breathtaking debut tour in 2023.
The company will visit 20 venues around the UK in 2025 with beloved classics Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet. The tour will visit the Royal Concert Hall Nottingham from Tuesday 30 January to Saturday 1 February 2025.
Founded in 1947 and renowned for its award-winning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet, Varna International Ballet has been delighting audiences for decades at home in Bulgaria and abroad with performances of the highest quality.
Led by Artistic Director Daniela Dimova, with Music Director and Chief Conductor Peter Tuleshkov, Varna International Ballet presents much-loved classics to charm audiences who are new to ballet and balletomanes alike.
The tour begins in Manchester on 2 January 2025, and visits Buxton, Bristol, Liverpool, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Basingstoke, Ipswich, Southend, Brighton, Nottingham, Reading, Oxford, Darlington, Wimbledon, Norwich, Hull, Sheffield, Leicester and Northampton, where it finishes on 5 March.
Artistic Director Daniela Dimova said: “We are thrilled to be bringing our highly talented company of dancers and musicians back to
the UK. We can’t wait to perform for British audiences again and to bring these magical ballets to life on stage.”
The Nutcracker begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. When midnight strikes, we are swept away to a fairytale world where nothing is quite as it seems: toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse King and his army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins. The spellbinding ballet features Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, and stunning choreography by Vasily Vainonen, revised by Sergey Bobrov. Often considered the greatest romantic ballet of all time, Swan Lake is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score, with choreography by Marius Petipa, Lev Ivanov, Sergey Bobrov and Natalia MatusMarchuk. From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all.
Shakespeare’s tale of primal passion and timeless tragedy Romeo and Juliet is set to Prokofiev’s soaring score, with emotionally charged choreography by Sergey Bobrov and Bakhytzhan Smagulov that befits the world’s greatest love story. From the grandeur of the masked ball to the intimacy of the lovers’ balcony, this story of duels, bitter family feuds and love that cannot be is unmissable.
Nottingham Royal Concert Hall 30 Jan - 1 Feb, tickets available fromwww.trch.co.uk
Graeme Park TO OPEN LIVE ORCHESTRAL SHOW
NOTTINGHAM’S OWN LEGENDARY HOUSE MUSIC PIONEER AND DJ WILL BE OPENING A LIVE ORCHESTRAL SHOW CELEBRATING CLUB CULTURE AT THE ROYAL CONCERT HALL ON 9 MARCH
Pure Club Classical will be a breathtaking fusion of dance, trance and club anthems performed by a 50-piece orchestra, dynamic vocalists, and captivating stage performers. The Limelight Orchestra will present the huge house classics, including Café Del Mar, Strings of Life and Insomnia in a whole new way as the venue transforms into a highenergy club with a breathtaking laser show.
The night kicks off in style at 4pm with an unmissable front-of-house DJ session from none other than Graeme Park, a legend in the city from his 1980s roots at the beloved Selectadisc record store to headlining global tours and venues for iconic dance music brands like Cream and Ministry Of Sound. Graeme's distinct house style honed from years at the forefront of the emerging house scene, will set the mood with a two hour set in the foyer transformed to create a club vibe. Lovezoo resident DJ Leccy will also be taking a turn on the decks.
The night continues with two packed sets bursting with reimagined classics such as Hey Boy Hey Girl by The Chemical Brothers, and Children by Robert Miles.
It’s part of a growing appetite for daytime and evening events catering for all ages who love the energy of dance music but want to skip the late night early morning finish.
Paul Murphy, CEO, The Limelight Orchestra, said: “Our Pure Club
Classical shows are a great opportunity for audiences to reconnect with all those amazing club bangers but with the benefit of ending the evening at a respectable hour! We’re delighted that the legendary Graeme Park will set the tone for this epic celebration of club culture - it’s going to be where classical grandeur meets the energy of the dance floor.”
With some absolute belters in the setlist, audiences are in for a treat and a few surprises. Pure Club Classical is the latest event series from Limelight following their popular Pure Ibiza Classical performed at festivals and cathedrals to wide acclaim across the country.
This is a safe, welcoming event for music lovers of all ages 14 upwards and a perfect chance to introduce friends and family to the captivating world of dance, trance, and club music.
Doors: 4.30pm - DJs in foyer, Set 1: 6.30pm - 7.30pm, 30 minute interval with DJ in foyer, Set 2: 8.00pm - 9.00pm. Tickets from £34 plus booking fee, available from trch.co.uk/whats-on/ pure-club-classical
An annual festival which is all about showcasing a world of science and curiosity that’s all around us every day. The festival is about inviting the people of Nottinghamshire to share not only what they know, but also what they would like to know; it’s about celebrating curiosity, asking questions and taking a leading role in finding out the answers.
The first week of the festival is while schools are still in session, so we run a range of activities with scientists and researchers going into schools, pupils getting out and visiting science sites, as well as students presenting their own science investigations. The festival works with pupils at all phases, from early years to primary to secondary to college, and including special schools and alternative provision.
The second week of the festival is while during the half term holidays, so we take activities out into community settings like libraries, museums and shopping centres so families can come along and explore a range of science activities.
Free hands-on activities with LEGO bricks. Today’s dinosaurs need your help, so join in the fun by putting your creativity and imagination to the test!
Memory & How Our Brain Works
Beeston Library
Monday 17 February, 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm
Hands-on activities all about neuroscience led by University of Nottingham students. Supported by Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government.
We all have a curious nature and the desire to learn more about the world around us. Celebrating the curiosity in each of us and encouraging school children and adults alike to embrace their inquisitiveness is the Nottingham Festival of Science & Curiosity (11-19 February), a weeklong festival of discovery
HERE’S A ROUNDUP OF A FEW OF THE EVENTS TAKING PLACE AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL
Meet the Lush team, get creative and make your own bath bombs in this fun, family workshop. Supported by Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government.
Atomic Energy Workshops
DH Lawrence Birthplace Museum
Tuesday 18 February, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm
Join the UK Atomic Energy Authority team to take part in hands-on activities all about fusion energy.
Ozobots Workshop
DH Lawrence Birthplace Museum
Wednesday 19 February, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm
Join this workshop coding tiny robots to follow different coloured lines! Supported by Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government.
Shadow & Light Workshop
Lakeside Arts
Wednesday 19 February, 10.30am – 12.30pm Get inspired by black holes! Explore the Cosmic Titans exhibition, then have fun creating art using shadow and light.
Inflatable Planetarium
Mansfield Central Library
Thursday 20 February, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm
Within the Nottingham Trent University inflatable digital planetarium we will explore together what’s up above at night. Fly with us to Jupiter, make your own constellations, and hear stories about heroes in the sky. Supported by Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government.
Let’s Talk Vaccines Workshop
Bilsthorpe Library
Friday 21 February, 1.30-2.45pm, 3-4.15pm
Take part in a range of activities from University
of Leeds scientists including storyboarding, clay modelling, LEGO activities, VR, and an interactive quiz.
Join Maths Blast for an workshop that blends the intriguing art of escapology, and the creative world of slime making.
Egg Drop Challenge
Bennerley Viaduct
Saturday 22 February, 11am – 2pm
Bennerley Viaduct stands 20 meters above the beautiful Erewash Valley. But would an egg survive the drop? Only one way to find out! Flex your scientific skills and create the best parachute to save your egg! With help from real engineers from the STEM Ambassadors Team.
February transforms certain locations into enchanting wonderlands as delicate snowdrops blanket the landscape, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the winter scenery.
Exploring these destinations provides a unique and serene experience, allowing visitors to witness nature's resilience and elegance.
In the Scottish Highlands, the rolling hills and ancient forests come alive with the subtle charm of snowdrops. Walking through the woodlands reveals a breathtaking sight as these delicate flowers emerge beneath the snow-covered branches. The contrast between the white snow and the fragile blossoms creates a magical ambiance, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature.
England's Cotswolds, known for its picturesque villages, offers a fairytale setting in February. The meadows and gardens are adorned with snowdrops, turning the countryside into a dreamlike landscape. Batsford Arboretum near Moreton-in-Marsh is particularly captivating, with its ancient trees providing a majestic backdrop to the delicate blooms.
Scotland's Cambo Estate hosts a Snowdrop Festival, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the sheer beauty of millions of snowdrops covering the woodlands. Guided walks and themed
dreamlike landscape
events enhance the experience, providing a deeper connection to nature's winter spectacle.
In Wales, the grounds surrounding Chirk Castle become a haven for snowdrops, transforming the historic site into a serene retreat. The juxtaposition of the castle's architecture against the delicate blossoms creates a scene that transports visitors to a timeless realm. Nearer to home we recommend two places to visit in February. Little Ponton Hall in Lincolnshire and Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire.
These destinations share a common thread – the delicate and resilient snowdrop, symbolizing hope and renewal in the midst of winter's grasp. Whether wandering through woodlands, meadows, or castle grounds, each location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making February an ideal time for those seeking a serene and enchanting escape.
get the family together and experience an evening of delicious food, live music and stunning light displays as Nottingham’s Light Night returns to some of the most creative corners of our vibrant city
Illuminate your imagination as you explore the city centre, from Old Market Square to the Green Heart, and from Sneinton Market to Nottingham Castle. You can see more than 30 immersive and interactive light-based installations, performances, and activities after dark.
Whether you’re an arts and culture enthusiast, looking for a free family trip out, or want to get the perfect content for your socials, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Light Night is produced by Nottingham City Council and It’s in Nottingham – the city’s business improvement district. The event is funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, It's in Nottingham, and Nottingham City Council. Cultural organisations across the city also support the event.
Friday 28 February & Saturday 1 March Nottingham City Centre, 5pm until late FREE event
LIGHT IT UP
Nottingham Light Night will return for its 17th year in 2025!
Event information and photos kindly supplied by Visit Nottinghamshire
Burns Night
Whether you are a Scot or not, gather friends and family on 25 January for a truly traditional celebration
Burns Night is a Scottish celebration held on January 25th every year in honor of the life and works of the poet Robert Burns (1759–1796), often regarded as Scotland's national poet. It is a key part of Scottish culture and heritage, marked by gatherings and events that celebrate his poetry, music, and contributions to Scottish identity.
The night typically involves a traditional supper, which includes haggis (a savory pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats and spices), neeps (mashed turnips), and tatties (mashed potatoes). The haggis is often brought into the room ceremoniously while a piper plays, and the "Address to a Haggis," a famous poem by Burns, is recited before the meal begins.
After dinner, guests enjoy various activities such as reciting Burns' poetry, singing his songs, and toasting with whisky. The evening usually ends with the singing of "Auld Lang Syne," another of Burns' wellknown works.
Burns Night at Woodborough Hall
Saturday 25 January
7pm, tickets £65pp
Join Woodborough Hall for an evening to celebrate Scottish Poet Robert Burns. Their team of talated chefs have crafted a seven course tasting menu, focusing on all the scottish classics but with a Woodborough Hall twist.
Burns Night at the City Ground
Saturday 25 January, 7pm, tickets £85pp
An evening steeped in Scottish tradition, hosted at the iconic City Ground, with the River Trent as your backdrop. For just £85, you're in for an unforgettable Burns Night experience that mixes luxury, heritage, and good old-fashioned fun.
A sumptuous 3-course meal including haggis, neeps, and tatties (of course), all served with first-class service in a stunning venue. It's Scottish hospitality, Nottingham style!
Will we see you in tartan on the 25th?
YMCA Robin Hood Deliver Holiday Joy with Over 800 Gift Donations
This Christmas, YMCA Robin Hood called on the community to go beyond traditional gift-giving and join their inspiring 2024 campaign, “Pledge Hope This Christmas.” Individuals, families, and businesses were urged to make promises that would create meaningful, long-term support for vulnerable young people across Nottinghamshire. Everyone was invited to contribute to building brighter, stronger communities by pledging hope for a better tomorrow.
YMCA Robin Hood has been a lifeline for young people facing homelessness, poverty, and isolation, offering safe spaces and vital resources to help them thrive. One key initiative is the Supported Housing accommodations in Nottingham city centre, Goole, Mansfield and Ashfield which create a secure and nurturing environment for young people experiencing homelessness. Each pledge made this Christmas directly supported efforts like this, ensuring vulnerable young people receive the help they need to rebuild their lives.
Last year, YMCA Supported Housing service provided temporary homes and support towards independence to 1,345 individuals, their highest volume provision as part of their Respond strategic directive. In terms of positive impact, this has been measured through a significant 8.7% YOY increase of young people moving into independent living.
As a part of this Christmas campaign, the Nottingham community came together to help create a special festive season for young people in YMCA Supported Housing and Children’s Residential Care without families or a place to call home, through generous gift donations and thoughtful activities organised by the YMCA.
One resident shared, “I got two packs of beauty blenders, so I gave one to my friend—they’re the best ones you can buy!”
Hundreds of gifts were donated to the YMCA Robin Hood from individuals and groups, with contributions from organisations such as Paul Smith, Dunelm, SEWA's Shoebox Appeal, Swinefleet School, the Credit Union, Riverside Church, and many others. These thoughtful gifts made a lasting impact on the young people they were given to.
Other residents expressed their gratitude, saying: “I really appreciated the gifts from Swinefleet school, especially at this time of year as it’s nice to know people like us are thought about.”, “I felt really thankful and seen because of the gifts. It helped me quite a lot.”
These generous contributions from the community, along with many other supporters, helped to bring warmth and joy to young people facing homelessness or family challenges this holiday season. Every donation, no matter the size, played a meaningful part in making Christmas a special time for those in need.
Nottingham-born fashion brand Paul Smith generously donated 115 pairs of socks to YMCA Robin Hood's Supported Housing service which helped them to stay warm and comfortable during the festive season.
Additionally, the YMCA Robin Hood Housing Team united over the Christmas period to spread the joy, organising a range of festive activities designed to bring comfort to the residents. From fun-filled events to community gatherings, to Christmas Dinner, the team worked tirelessly to create an atmosphere of togetherness.
“I didn’t used to like Christmas; however, I really enjoyed the activities and getting involved. It has made Christmas fun.” – YMCA Robin Hood Group Supported Housing Resident.
Jack Chamers, a resident at Shakespeare Street shared: “I enjoyed the Christmas decoration making because it helped me focus and just relax when everything in my life at the time was very stressful. Colouring gave me a moment of quiet which I needed.”
It is rewarding to see the positive impact of community unity on the lives of young people, especially at Christmas. YMCA Robin Hood extends its extreme gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and kindness to make a difference and look forward to continuing to work together to create lasting change in the lives of those they serve.
ALLAN'S LIFE SAVING STORY
INDEBTED TO THE LNAA CREW
In February 2024, Allan (71) climbed onto the roof of his conservatory at his Nottingham allotment to replace damaged panels. Standing on the beam structure to fix the last screw his foot suddenly slipped on the damp metal, and he fell backwards, straight through the UPVC and landed on his back on the concrete floor.
Allan said: “I could hardly breathe and every time I tried to move; pain shot through my body.”
His injuries were so serious that Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) was called. Within 16 minutes the Notts Critical Care Car arrived and LNAA’s doctor and paramedic were by Allan’s side, providing life-saving care.
Once stable Alan was stretchered to the waiting ambulance and LNAA crew accompanied him the Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre where a trauma team were waiting for him.
Allan spent three weeks in hospital whilst his ribs started to heal, and breathing became easier.
When he got home, he was frustrated in his inability to walk far, but in his determination to recover, he started a daily routine of walking up and down
the stairs, gradually increasing the number of stairs climbed as his broken bones healed and the pain became more manageable.
Alan will always be indebted to the LNAA crew that day and believes without the crew arriving so quickly in the critical
care car he may not be alive today.
As he said: “The crew were superb, I owe them my life. The response from Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is quick and the doctors and paramedics can get to you quickly and sort you out before you get to hospital.”
All 30 patient stories celebrating 30 year of Lincs & Notts Air ambulance can be found on ambucopter.org.uk/stories
Newark and Sherwood has much to be proud of: a captivating history, beautiful countryside, characterful market towns, world-renowned businesses and an enviable location at the crossroads of the country’s transportation network. Sitting at the heart of England between the A1 and the M1 and on the East Coast Mainline.
With London only 1 hour and 15 minutes away by train and excellent transport links by road, it is a fantastic place to locate your growing business. Newark and Sherwood is passionate about providing the best service possible for businesses already within the area and also for those who maybe wish to re-locate to Newark and Sherwood.
Newark and Sherwood is ambitious, forward thinking and has a growth agenda. Newark and Sherwood District Council serves 120,965 people, covering over 65,134 hectares of land, which contains 84 civil parishes and 21 wards. 39 elected members represent the district and work in collaboration with 435 employees to provide highquality services to residents.
The district’s Town Centres are renowned for a strong independent
offer and engaged business community which serve a local catchment. Newark on Trent is the largest town in the district and has an urban area that is home to 43,000 people. Over the next 20 years 7000 new homes are planned to the south of Newark along with the completion of the Southern bypass and the dualling of the A46.
Newark and Sherwood is home to the Newark Business Club which takes place on the first Friday of every month. With attendance of between 80-120 people it is a great way of networking with businesses in the area and being at the cutting edge of events taking place across the district.
Newark and Sherwood deliver a number of events throughout the year. These include the Annual Economic Growth Conference held in October each year. The conference allows for businesses to receive valuable information, hear from leading experts and to discuss the challenges and opportunities arising from future trends.
Newark and Sherwood work closely with the primary, secondary schools, Further and Higher Education providers endeavouring to ensure that the workforce of the future has the skills required to meet the needs of the 21st century businesses. The Future First Careers Expo is held in November each year at the Newark Showground.
Secondary schools from across the district are invited to meet with businesses, education and training providers. The Expo aims to improve the aspirations of young people, helping them to feel informed and inspired about a number of career paths.
In a world class destination offering rich outdoor activities, civil war heritage and the great legend of Robin Hood there is much to fill the leisure time of residents and visitors alike. Sherwood Forest provides the RSPB Centre. Southwell Minster and Newark Castle provides a few of the glorious attractions and opportunities for exploring the area.
For more information visit www.investnewarkandsherwood.co.uk. Call 01636 655260 or 01636 655277 or email veronica.dennant@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk
5 top tips to make your car winter-ready
As the UK suffers from more stormy and cold weather, insurance experts at A-plan Insurance have compiled a list of the top five tips to keep cars going through the winter.
Know how to read a dashboard
All cars come with lights and symbols to indicate an issue; however, these are not the same across all makes and models. Around 52% of drivers can correctly identify what the warning lights mean but it’s essential that drivers recognise the 12 most common symbols using the manual that came with the car.
If any of the red lights appear, that is an immediate warning to take your car to a garage so it can be fixed. If a yellow light appears, it can still be serious but not as urgent so take the vehicle to be checked as soon as possible.
Check tyre pressure and tread depthOften, drivers don’t think about their tyres. By law, the minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s recommended that tyres should be changed at 3mm. Tread depth refers to the grooves in tyres and it helps to grip the road surface. In wet conditions, a shallow tread depth increases the chance of aquaplaning and losing control of the vehicle.
Check the battery - The number one cause of vehicle breakdowns, in cold or wet weather, is the battery going flat. Batteries are at a greater risk of failure due to the cold temperatures slowing down the processes within the battery, which reduces its ability to hold a charge.
Cold weather can also cause condensation to form as the freezing air meets the hot air surrounding the battery and engine. This condensation can then cause corrosion which damages the components. If the car sputters when the ignition is started or the red warning light flickers, the battery needs to be changed.
This is even more important in electric vehicles as the charging speed and effectiveness of the battery can be impacted, leading to a less efficient vehicle.
Don’t let the car sit for a long time - Older, pre-1980's cars, needed to be left idling to warm up but for modern vehicles, this does more harm than good, damaging spark plugs and producing almost double the emissions of a moving car.
To keep the engine in top shape, a short drive of around 15-20 minutes is needed. This doesn’t need to be every day, but regularly running a vehicle for this period keeps the battery and engine healthy and ensures that the oil is at a workable consistency to start the vehicle. A
slow, gentle pace will allow the engine to warm up safely and ensure that all parts are working correctly.
Check the lights work and fluid levels are correct - As the nights and early mornings get darker, commuters should check their headlights, brake lights, and indicators are all working properly. Ask a friend to stand outside and check the lights to identify any bulbs that might need changing.
While performing these checks, inspecting the fluid levels in your car can also help to reduce the risk of damage. Checking the anti-freeze and oil levels can help to keep the engine running, and these are simple to top up without visiting a garage.
Fashion
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to embrace the season of love! Joe Browns’ latest edit is filled with romantic shades of pink and red, ideal for a memorable date night or simply celebrating in style
From chic dresses to standout shoes and accessories, this collection adds a touch of effortless elegance to any occasion. Highlights include the Roses are Red Midi Dress, Rebel T-Bar Shoes, and the Rebel Cut-Out Bag—each piece designed to turn heads.
Celebrate Va lentines in Style
Effortlessly Elegant Short
Sleeved Cardigan £45
Elle Statement Tweed Jacket £80
Rebel Cut Out Grab Bag £45
Fabulous Detachable Bag Chain £15
Sassy Spot Short Dress £48
Dottie Ankle Boots £60
Audrey Floral Maxi Dress £55
Roses Are Red Floral Printed Midi Dress £50
Eliana Statement Summer Midi Dress £60
Rebel T-Bar Shoes £55
Introducing Fiorelli’s latest drop, The Jolene Collection – a range so versatile, even Dolly would approve! Whether you're running from 9 to 5 or stepping out for the evening, these stylish bags will have you covered. Combining practicality with timeless elegance, the Jolene Collection includes both tote and shoulder options that are perfect for any occasion.
Working 9-5
Jolene Tote (£85)
Available in sleek Black and rich Coffee, this bag offers ample space with an elegant silhouette perfect for everyday use. Featuring a chic buckle detail, it’s as functional as it is fashionable!
Jolene Shoulder Bag (£59)
For those moments when you need to switch gears, this compact beauty is your go-to. With a detachable chain strap and faux-leather panel, it transforms from a crossbody to a clutch in no time. Plus, the gold-tone twist lock gives it that extra bit of flair—perfect for day or night!
Jolene Tote Bag Black £85
Jolene Shoulder Bag Black £59
Jolene Tote Bag Red £85
Jolene Tote Bag Coffee £85
Jolene Shoulder Bag Coffee £59
New Year
Start 2025 right by investing in some stylish gym gear and look as good as your new workout routine will make you feel!
If you're seeking a little active inspiration this season, then take a browse at our sporty picks. Find something that will motivate you to get fitter, healthier and more confident and say hello to the new you this New Year.
Is your New Year’s resolution to get fit?
Iris Wrap Leggings Sky Blue By Naturally Evie, Warrior Addict £69
The Inversion Hoody Warrior Addict £69
Iris Wrap Bra Watermelon Pink By Naturally Evie, Warrior Addict £49
New Performance Vest, Warrior Addict £39
Low Impact Snake Print Sports Bra Perky Peach £25
Wellicious Fresher Cropped Tank Sea Green, Warrior Addict £79
Snake Print Cycling Shorts, Perky Peach, £30
Baseball Cap, Warrior Addict £29
New You
Featuring gym gear for both men and women, our selection effortlessly combines comfort and style. Perfect for both in and out of the gym, making your wardrobe as strong as your workout this season.
The Warrior Yoga Gift Set Blue, Warrior Addict £99.99
The Inversion Tank Grey, Warrior Addict £49
Move More White Vest Top Perky Peach £30
STEP#W Hydro Flask Warrior Addict £18
Anti Gravity Shorts, Warrior Addict £49
Laurel Cross Back Sports Top Olive Green, Warrior Addict £49
Kati Kaia - Circe Yoga Mat, Warrior Addict £95
Move More Forest Green Leggings, Perky Peach £40
Iris Wrap Shorts Sky Pink, Warrior Addict £45
horoscopes
It's crunch time for money. Time to be realistic about the state of your finances. You cannot afford to make the wrong decision regarding investments. Someone isn’t playing ball and you have every right to be suspicious. A business lunch with someone influential could develop into a strong friendship. A major breakthrough is about to happen that will deliver you from a very tricky situation indeed.
aries
This is the ideal time for you to turn over a new leaf. Although things may still be going a bit too slowly for you in your love life, you are about to meet someone who will make a very big first impression. At work you will be at your very best, because you will be hyped up with excitement and inspired by your new lovers interest in all that you do. A niggling health matter will need addressing if you are to carry on living in the fast lane, burning the candle at both ends.
cancer
A close relationship is being tested. Sometimes we think we know someone really well and then realise that there is a very different side to their character. The realisation will come as an enormous shock. You have to decide where you go from here. If single and having a super time going out on dates with no intention of getting tied down, you may experience a change of heart once you have met 'the right one' for you.
taurus
It's so difficult getting someone like you to relax. Once you have a 'bee in your bonnet' there is no respite because you want action!!! More than anything, you want answers!! News will reach you soon that will either put you in the frame of mind of a vexed pussy-cat, or it will be enough to humour you...for now...that is. On the job front, a position you have been striving to attain will become yours, even though you will be up against some fierce competition.
A close friend or lover may not share your views on an important matter and challenge you. This won't go down well at all will it? You may be going through an emotionally hungry phase and expect reassurances from everyone in your circle. If you are debating what to do for the best regarding your job then perhaps its time for a change. A social invitation may lead to you chatting away quite innocently to your next soul mate, as a new romance is about to commence.
Do try to get out of the house more. You could do with the fresh air and some time to think things through. If you have been feeling trapped in a relationship, ask yourself what has stopped you from making a move before now? This is a great time for putting your affairs in order once and for all. A social event that you may attend at the very last moment, could put you in touch with someone who is going to feature very strongly in your future plans.
virgo
by Linda Lancashire
Whilst others are taking time out and having fun, for you it's business as usual, especially if you are self employed or just started a new job. You will be pleased to know that all your hard work and efforts are not in vain, and that soon you stand to reap some very rich rewards indeed. Someone you have fancied for a long time may begin to gravitate in your direction. Is this just a case of you wanting something you thought you couldn't have, but do you really want it any more?
News regarding a loved one may cause you to feel inwardly worried and concerned, and even make you reorgane your work schedule, because family always come first. You are far more select in the company you keep, and don’t waste time on those who drain your energies, or whose principles you disagree with. Finances are set to recover after a very heavy year of expenditure, and you could find yourself with some cash spare to invest in a new project.
At the very last moment you may cancel a social arrangement because you prefer to do something else with someone else. If you are self-employed, you are happy when the phone rings, it means business is ticking over. Expansion plans to develop your empire will become a reality. Property portfolios may become regular bedtime reading during the months ahead, instead of the usual romantic novels.
libra scorpio sagittarius
A blast from the past may come as an unwelcome surprise. Why would you even think of entertaining someone who deceived you? Focus your energies on people who matter the most to you. You may be interested in enrolling at a night school or an open university degree. A close friend may ask you a big favour, but it could cost you hard earned cash if you're not careful. You may start chit-chatting to someone on the internet who you become increasingly drawn to.
You wont be short of social invitations and are all set to be 'belle of the ball'. People will bend over to make sure you don’t have to do any driving, and your entertainment will be free of charge. Someone who was once a close friend, may have moved onto pastures new, but an interesting new character oozing with charm, will win you over and a red hot affair is about to commence, causing all sorts of complications, but you are ready to throw caution to the wind and go for it!!
Friendship and business rarely mix, you have already found this out in a painful lesson. You know just who your true friends are not in any hurry to enrol newcomers, stick to 'tried and tested'. If you have been worried about paying off a debt and generally putting matters in order, it won't be long before you can sit back and relax knowing the worst is over, and finally splash out on little luxuries once more. That dream holiday of a lifetime will become a reality sooner than you expect.
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Health & Wellbeing
Dear Diary…
The beginning of a New Year marks an opportunity for a fresh start, so it’s out with the old and in with the new this 2025! Take advantage of the blank pages in your diary and start planning another twelve months full of laughter, adventure and excitement.
No matter how hectic your schedule, it always helps to spend some time getting organised. Luckily, there are a range of diaries out there to suit everyone, from the wanderlust traveller to the organised individual. With a range of designs, sizes and finishes available, you’ll be sure to find something that reflects your personality and style in the shops this season.
how to choose
The perfect midnight snack!
It can be difficult to get to sleep on an empty stomach, and what you choose to eat could help or hinder your ability to get some shut-eye.
While it may be tempting to grab a leftover slice of pizza, this type of food can delay sleep. Ingredients like tomato sauce and onion are highly acidic and may contribute to heartburn, and any discomfort will stop you from sleeping. Weight loss experts at Voy have shared some snacks to reach for in your late-night kitchen runs that should send you to dreamland as soon as possible.
Crackers and Cheese
Crackers and cheese are a surprising yet satisfying choice. Whole-grain crackers are an excellent source of fibre, and fibre intake is associated with deeper, more restorative sleep. Cheese is rich in protein, including whey and casein, which provide tryptophan, an amino acid that supports the production of sleep-promoting chemicals. For the best options, try cottage cheese or hard cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan. However, be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overindulging.
Fruit (with almond or peanut butter)
Most people know that fruit is healthy, but did you know that kiwi is a proven sleep superfood? Kiwis are rich in serotonin, a brain chemical that helps regulate your sleep cycle. Serotonin, along with dopamine, influences sleep quality. It also serves as a precursor to melatonin, the hormone responsible for managing your sleep-wake cycle.
If you're seeking fruit with melatonin, tart cherries or apples are a great option. Bananas are packed with sleep-enhancing nutrients such as magnesium, tryptophan, vitamin B6, carbohydrates, and potassium, all of which are associated with better sleep quality. One way to make fruit slightly more appetising is to add almond or peanut butter, which also adds protein and healthy fats to the snack.
Popcorn
Not all “junk food” is off-limits for late-night snacking. Popcorn is a whole grain packed with fibre and carbs. Carbohydrates make tryptophan - an amino acid important for sleep - more available to the brain. Make sure the
popcorn isn’t covered in sugar or butter, as it would have the opposite effect on your sleep. Portion control is key when eating popcorn, as it’s easy to overindulge. Consider buying small packets or preparing a single, small bowl to avoid overeating.
Porridge (with nuts or berries)
Oats, the primary ingredient in porridge, are a good source of tryptophan, which helps your body to produce melatonin and therefore support a natural sleep cycle. Combining porridge with nuts, such as cashews (which are rich in melatonin and magnesium), creates a winning combination for sleep support. If you want to add some fresh ingredients, berries are low in calories but packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre that can support overall health.
Tuna cucumber bites
Tuna contains sleep-promoting omega-3s. It’s also a source of vitamin B6, which assists in the production of melatonin. Cucumbers contain antioxidants, which can have calming and anti-inflammatory effects, so tuna and cucumber are the perfect combination.
Hummus
Hummus is a popular dip made of chickpeas, which are rich in folate that regulates sleep patterns, and vitamin B6, which is needed to make melatonin. You can eat hummus as a dip for wholegrain crackers, cucumber or carrot sticks, or spread it on a slice of whole-grain toast.
Avocado toast
Unsurprising, but a classic to finish the list with. Avocados’ magnesium and potassium content fuel a good night’s sleep. These nutrients, alongside complex carbohydrates, help trigger the release of serotonin, making you feel sleepy.
Dr Earim Chaudry, Chief Medical Officer at Voy, has added:
"Late-night snacking is often associated with poor sleep, but it’s possible to choose snacks that not only curb hunger cravings but also support restful sleep.
"While snacks like fruit and avocado are well-known for their health benefits, it’s less commonly understood that foods often labelled as ‘junk,’ such as popcorn and cheese, can also be enjoyed in a way that benefits your sleep when eaten at night.
"To prevent late-night hunger, any of these options can also be eaten as an evening snack just before bed, especially if you frequently find yourself feeling hungry at night."
beat the january blues
BEING WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Spending time with your loved ones can help battle potential feelings of sadness and loneliness, and can also help serve as a distraction. It’s also a good way to bond with those you cherish. This is especially true if you have a busy lifestyle or can’t see them for other reasons throughout the year; it can help you reassess your priorities and lead you to set up more meetings with those you love through the remainder of the year.
EXERCISE
Exercising can be a good way to relieve stress and regulate your nervous system, helping you feel better mentally. Furthermore, it can benefit you by improving your fitness and increasing your stamina.
MAKE TIME FOR YOUR HOBBIES
Being busy with work and other life factors can sometimes lead people to neglect their hobbies and things they enjoy. Making sure to prioritise these can alleviate feelings of sadness and relieve stress. It is important to have ways of coping if you feel upset, and hobbies can be a great way to do this.
LISTEN TO MUSIC
Listening to music can relieve tension and bring positive feelings when you feel low. Singing, dancing, and letting go can be very beneficial to your mental health.
GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Getting a good night’s sleep can be imperative for your mental health. It can help you feel more positive, improve your relationships with others, and improve your cognitive function. Sleep can ward off the blues as it can regulate your emotions.
SET GOALS
Setting goals can keep you focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Having manageable targets is important and can decrease anxiety yet still help you get things done.
Coming down from the New Year high can lead to feelings of sadness and loneliness, especially in combination with the stress that many feel at Christmas. Experts at QR Code Generator have shared some tips on how to keep a positive mindset as we enter 2025
PAMPER YOURSELF
Make sure to give yourself some downtime. Take a moment or two to let yourself relax; have a long, warm bath and light some candles, put on a face mask and watch your favorite show, or take yourself out to go shopping or get a coffee. Even small actions, like listening to an episode of a favourite podcast, can reduce anxiety and bring joy during busy times.
TAKE REGULAR BREAKS
No matter whether it’s at work or home with your friends and family, you need to make sure you take regular breaks to have a drink or a bite to eat. Even sitting in silence or scrolling on your phone for five minutes can give you the time you need to recharge.
EAT HEALTHY
Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and fibre-rich options like nuts can significantly improve how you feel. That isn’t to say you can’t have a treat every now and then, but healthier choices can give you more energy and give your body the sustenance it needs.
MEDITATE
Practising mindfulness is crucial for good mental well-being and can reduce anxiety and stress. Whether you do some yoga or download a meditation app, doing just a few minutes every day can help you navigate worries and tough times.
Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator PRO S.L said, “Christmas and New Year can be magical and full of happiness, but it can also be very hectic and overwhelming.
“For some, it can even be a period of sadness and loneliness. This is why it’s important to make sure you do things you enjoy and have time to yourself, but also to spend time with those you hold dear and check on them to see how they’re holding up.”
Winter Wellness
Have a brew but make it green!
Green tea has more immune boosting antioxidants than regular brown tea. Try and steep for 3-4 minutes before drinking.
Up your sunshine intake
Vitamin D is formed from the sunshine and works along side calcium to help keep our bones strong. It boosts our immune system and helps us to fight off infections. We can often have lower levels after October so it’s important to get outside on a daily basis and eat Vitamin D rich foods such as oily fish, eggs and fortified food like cereals and spreads.
Wash your hands
80% of viruses are thought to be spread by touch, however, people who wash their hands five or more times a day have 45% fewer colds and sniffles.
Get active
Those who exercise or who are active five times a week cut their risk of a cold by almost half. 1 ½ hrs a week is the recommendation but don’t overdo it. Being out in the fresh air will also increase your vitamin D and improve your mental health.
Manage your stress
Stress hormones can reduce your immune system so find a good stress reliever; yoga, cooking, singing, walking and puzzles to help you to stay calm and happy.
Increase the antioxidants in your diet
Antioxidants help fight free radicals, which if left to overrun the body can cause illness and fatigue. The best sources of antioxidants are fruits and veg, try and leave the skins on for extra fibre.
More bacteria the good sort
Prebiotics are food for probiotics allowing them to grow, multiply and protect us. They are not only good for a happy tummy but can also reduce the risk of infection. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that help keep your digestive system healthy by controlling growth of harmful bacteria.
Alcohol awareness
Alcohol can supress your ‘white’ cells ability to multiply and they are the ones that fight infection and keep you healthy. The maximum weekly units are 14 for both men and women and its advised to have two or three alcohol
Your immune system has to be nurtured and nourished in order to spring into action whenever it’s needed, and that could be more often during the long, cold and dark winter months.
free days a week. A bottle of wine (3-4 glasses) can have 9 units.
A good night’s sleep
When we rest or sleep our body makes repairs, including to our immune system so it’s essential that you get good quality sleep. The room shouldn’t be too hot or bright and switch off electronic devices. Before bedtime have a milky drink, take a warm bath or
Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation that can impair your immune systems ability to fight infection. Sugar is often the biggest reason for weight gain. Eating or drinking 100g or 25 teaspoons of sugar, which is equivalent of a takeaway hot chocolate and a salted caramel muffin can reduce your white cells ability to kill germs.
Tuscany is a region in central Italy known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, art, culture, and culinary heritage
The region is famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and charming medieval towns. Tuscany is home to cities like Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Lucca, each offering a unique mix of historical landmarks, Renaissance art, and architectural beauty.
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is renowned for being the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it houses iconic art and architecture, including works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The Tuscan countryside is also a popular destination for wine lovers, with vineyards producing some of the world’s finest wines, including Chianti.
Tuscany is also known for its delicious cuisine, including specialties like ribollita (a hearty soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato soup), and bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak). Visitors can also enjoy its charming towns, like San Gimignano, with its medieval towers, and the hilltop city of Cortona.
Florence The capital of Tuscany, filled with world-class museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. Highlights include the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral, and the Palazzo Pitti. It’s a must-see for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Tuscany is best explored by car, especially if you want to visit smaller towns and the countryside. While trains connect major cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa, renting a car gives you more flexibility and access to hidden gems.
Tuscany is known for its high-quality leather goods, particularly in Florence. You'll find many boutiques selling beautifully crafted handbags, shoes, and jackets. Other great buys include local wines, olive oils, and ceramics.
The best times to visit Tuscany are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and an opportunity to experience the region’s festivals, harvests, and wine tasting events. Summer caan be hot, especially in the cities, and crowded with tourists.
EXCESS BAGGAGE FEES
A NEW SURVEY FROM OCEAN FLORIDA REVEALS THAT 1 IN 5 BRITS HAVE PAID EXCESS BAGGAGE FEES IN 2024 DUE TO OVERPACKING.
As the busy holiday booking season ramps up, these findings highlight a costly travel habit many Brits fall into. With a few simple packing tips, these unnecessary fees can be easily avoided.
Natalie Sexton, spokesperson for Ocean Florida, commented: “Overpacking can turn into an expensive mistake, even on long-haul flights where the baggage allowance is usually more generous at 23kg. At Ocean Florida, we want to ensure travellers keep their money for the experiences that matter most, not avoidable baggage fees.”
The survey, conducted with OnePoll and based on responses from over 2,000 British travellers, uncovers the habits leading to excess baggage charges. Despite the growing trend towards efficient travel, many Brits continue to pack far more than they need, leading to higher costs at the check-in desk.
Key Findings from Survey:
21% of Brits have paid last-minute excess baggage fees due to overpacking.
35% of travellers pack a "just-in-case" jacket or jumper that is never used.
27% bring multiple pairs of shoes that end up unworn.
20% pack evening wear for hypothetical fancy dinners that they don’t attend.
16% pack workout clothes or equipment, which never see the gym.
12% bring gadgets such as hairdryers or travel irons that remain unused.
11% pack inflatables, like lilos or flamingos, that never even make it to the pool.
Ocean Florida’s Tips for Avoiding Excess Baggage Fees
Write a List: Planning ahead ensures you only pack what you truly need.
Pack Early: Avoid last-minute panic by packing well in advance to make thoughtful choices.
Wear Bulky Clothes: Save space by wearing your heaviest clothes during travel instead of packing them.
Choose Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for clothes that are lightweight and wrinkleresistant.
Check with Your Airline or Provider: Always confirm your luggage allowance before you start packing.
Buy Toiletries Locally: Particularly in destinations like the USA, where there’s a wide variety of affordable options, consider buying your toiletries after you arrive.
Leave the Gadgets at Home: Many hotels and villas provide hairdryers, irons, and other gadgets—check before packing.
Pack Smart: Skip unnecessary items like inflatables or extra shoes that you may not end up using.
Why do we Overpack?
The research suggests overpacking
is often driven by the desire to be prepared for every scenario. 24% of respondents admitted to packing extra items just in case, while 18% packed more than necessary to avoid “missing out” on anything. However, these items frequently go unused, leading to avoidable excess baggage fees.
As the busiest period for holiday bookings approaches, it’s the perfect time to rethink your packing habits. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your luggage is lighter, saving you time, stress, and unnecessary baggage fees - leaving more room for the experiences that truly matter on your trip.
Luxury Lodge Holidays
There is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday. The Peak District is ideally located in the Heart of England and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and unique family attractions.
Award winning Darwin Forest is situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combines luxury self-catering lodges with fantastic onsite facilities.
Whether you want peace and tranquillity on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, our lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore.
The park has previously been named Best in Britain by Hoseasons and won Gold in the Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park Category at the prestigious Visit England Awards for Excellence.
The luxury lodges at Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise.
The parks 137 lodges are sympathetically interwoven into the forest, which enables you to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque environment.
We have created a holiday park where children can explore, and young and old will feel carefree and relaxed.
There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy. Most popular are our spa lodges that include a private hot tub on the veranda and really enable
you to appreciate the serenity of our forest setting. We also have a number of pet friendly lodges
At Darwin Forest we have created the perfect setting for you to relax, enjoy your holiday and leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind.
Darwin Forest is the perfect destination to enjoy a family holiday. Our fantastic onsite facilities include Evolution Health & Fitness, which has a swimming pool, spa, gym and beauty rooms.
For the younger members of your family, Little Monkeys indoor play centre will provide hours of fun and entertainment. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained.
We also offer a range of fun activities onsite that are suitable
for children and adults. Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of crossbow. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing or seascooters! For all the family to enjoy, we have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails.
If you want to give yourself a break from cooking you can enjoy a coffee and light bite at the Explorers cafe or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced produce.
Many families enjoy celebrating Christmas or New Year at the park, or gathering the family together for a birthday or anniversary. No matter what the time of year, we are confident your friends and family will have a fantastic break.
BUYING YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY HOME
Buying a holiday home or caravan on the coast in England can be a rewarding investment, offering the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of coastal living while also providing a potential rental income
However, there are several important considerations to take into account to ensure the process goes smoothly and that the property serves your needs and goals.
Researching Locations
The first step is deciding where you want to buy. England's coastline offers a range of environments, from the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall to the sandy beaches of the East Coast. Popular coastal areas for holiday homes include Devon, Dorset, Yorkshire, and Suffolk. When choosing a location, consider factors like local amenities, transportation links, seasonal popularity, and the long-term potential for capital growth or rental income.
Setting a Budget
Before you start searching for properties, it's essential to set a clear budget. The cost of a holiday home or caravan will vary greatly depending on the location, size, and type of property. Along with the purchase price, you will need to budget for ongoing costs, such as maintenance, utilities, insurance, and local council taxes. If you're considering renting out your holiday
home, factor in potential rental yields and the cost of property management if you’re not planning to manage it yourself.
Legal and Financial Considerations
When buying a holiday home or caravan, especially on the coast, you need to consider the legal framework. If you're purchasing a static caravan on a park, check the terms of the lease and whether the park allows subletting. Some holiday parks have restrictions, while others may offer opportunities for rental income. Make sure the site has all the necessary permissions for you to use the caravan year-round, as some parks only allow usage for part of the year.
For a more permanent holiday home, ensure you fully understand the planning permissions, land use, and building regulations. You should also be aware of any environmental factors that could impact the property, such as flood risks or erosion, which are particularly relevant to coastal properties.
Financing your purchase can be different from buying a primary home. Many lenders
will offer a second-home mortgage for a holiday property, but the terms may be less favorable, with larger deposits or higher interest rates. You may need to check with your bank or financial advisor about the best mortgage options for your situation.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Owning a coastal property comes with additional maintenance challenges. The salty air can accelerate wear and tear on both buildings and caravans, so you must be prepared for regular cleaning and maintenance. It's also important to consider whether you will need a property manager to look after the home when you’re not there or if you're renting it out.
In conclusion, buying a holiday home or caravan on the coast in England can be a wonderful investment if you carefully consider location, budget, legalities, and long-term maintenance. With the right planning, you can create a haven for relaxation and adventure, while also making it a profitable asset.
Andalusian Culture at its Finest
a journey to a world of experiences with its rich history, vibrant culture and antique charm.
Seville is a vibrant city located in southern Spain, and capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region. It boasts an excellent climate, perfect for sun seekers and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively culture.
The Guadalquivir River gave rise to the city and its rich history. Over the course of 3,000 years, different civilizations (including Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths and Arabs) chose to settle in this extraordinarily fertile territory between the marshes and the River Delta, just 80km from the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s vast historical and artistic heritage is a result of the passage of these different cultures and their influences.
as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO – the Cathedral and Giralda, the Alcázar and the Archive of the Indias – as well as countless beautiful and unique civil and religious buildings, which contain numerous works of art by outstanding Architects, Sculptors and Painters.
Seville has a warm Mediterranean climate, making it a popular destination year-round. With the average annual temperature sitting between 18°C and 20°C, the city offers tourists glorious sunshine all throughout the year, allowing holidaymakers to take part in numerous outdoor activities.
The city is also known for its festivals, lively street life, and the warm hospitality of its people. With an intense and vibrant cultural life showcased throughout the year, Seville caters to all tastes from opera to flamenco and exhibitions to theatre. Known as the birthplace and capital of flamenco (declared an Intangible Heritage of Humanity); the city has also inspired the greatest
compositions, some of them as universal as Carmen, Don Giovanni and The Barber of Seville.
Food and drink are another of Seville’s main attractions – a rich gastronomic background means the options for eating are wide and varied. With bars and restaurants serving everything from traditional recipes to more innovative dishes, you’ll find something to tickle everyone’s taste buds. It is renowned for its tapas culture, where small portions of food are served alongside drinks in bars and restaurants. This is a great way to experience the local flavors.
Seville is renowned for its vibrant and colorful festivals, which are deeply rooted in Spanish culture and traditions. One of the most famous festivals is The Feria de Abril (April Fair), showcasing Andalusian culture at its finest. The nightly spectacle features flamenco dancing and horse parades. The vibrant colors of the fairgrounds make it a truly unique experience.
Love & Marriage
Have you noticed how life can get extremely busy? In fact so busy that it’s all too easy to forget the love and passion which inspired you to marry in the first place! Often we are busy doing good things, like looking after children, getting on with our jobs, running a household, hobbies and so on and in the midst of all this activity, it’s easy to forget to look after your marriage. National Marriage Week is a great annual focus for couples to take time to learn some new skills which will take their marriage from strength to strength!
Coordinated by the Marriage Foundation, it is widely supported by charities and individuals who believe that healthy marriages bring benefits for all of society and should be supported wherever possible. It is a fabulous campaign which seeks to educate couples about the benefits of an ever improving relationship. They run both local events put on by marriage champions and churches across the country.
It celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of marriage as the basis for family life in the UK. It is timed to include Valentine’s Day (7 - 14 February) and has been held every year since 1997, attracting the support and attention of a host of political, religious and media figures.
What can you do?
Marriages need nurturing to grow and flourish - this Marriage Week spend some time looking ahead to make some plans!
Whether you are a couple, local community group, a church or faith group or even a company - Marriage Week offers you an opportunity make a positive contribution to celebrating marriage in the UK, the only limit to what’s possible is your imagination!
Couples
Make a Date! – organise a special night out to appreciate quality time together. Relight the spark by taking time out to do special little things that make your other half smile.
Write love notes to each other and leave them around your home to be discovered.
Church & community groups
Create a ‘Ten Most Romantic Marriage
Dates’ list for your community. Maybe ask your local radio stations to promote a contest for the best ideas for Marriage Dates.
Run a romantic dinner for married couples by candle-light with champagne for a magical evening. Offer a service or celebration for reaffirming wedding vows, complete with wedding breakfast or drinks.
Companies
Have a ‘Go Home to Your Spouse’ evening where you encourage all employees to make time for their loved ones.
Do you have a product or service especially for couples? This is the week to launch it or publicise it – the press will be alert for marriage related news during Marriage Week.
Conduct a review of marriage-friendly policies for the workplace, an example could be to give your employees the day off for their wedding anniversary.
Celebrate a Wonderful Wedding at Morley Hayes
A wedding at Morley Hayes is an unforgettable experience for both you and your gueststhe perfect day in a charming countryside setting.
Set amongst 270 acres of woodland and parkland golf course, mid-way between Derby and Nottingham, Morley Hayes provides the ideal venue for a large exclusive use or a small intimate wedding.
Indoor wedding ceremonies and receptions can be held in the Mill Room or Granary Loft. These two stylish country-inspired suites boast contemporary rustic features including exposed beams and glass lantern chandeliers. Both suites are available as part of the ‘Exclusively Yours’ Wedding package.
The Pavilion Suite is a superb venue for wedding ceremonies and receptions offering French doors leading onto a balcony with panoramic views over the golf course and countryside. Take your vows beneath the Wedding Dome surrounded by a tranquil secret garden in a truly enchanting outdoor setting.
Be one with nature as you make memories full of forest fern, towering pines, wildflowers and the murmur of the stream in the Woodland Wedding
Lodge, creating a rustic and romantic outdoor setting.
If you are dreaming of a natural, outdoor wedding, the Meadow provides a peaceful atmosphere. You and your guests will be transported by tractor and trailer through the estate into the heart of the meadow nestled by wildflowers.
Within the grounds, the Morley Hayes AA 4* hotel offers luxury accommodation with private balconies and terraces in an idyllic
country hideaway providing the perfect place to relax after a day of celebration. Morley Hayes’ team of wedding coordinators would love to hear your aspirations and help bring your dream wedding to life.
With no venue hire, you can spend more on making this time in your life special.
Please pop in as every day is an open day!
*Subject to appointment only*
anybody that has been married before will know that weddings require meticulous planning and a lot of organisation.
If you are tying the knot in the future, one of the most important things to consider is your venue. There are plenty of different kinds to choose from, each with their own benefits…but which one is right for you and your special day?
Church
For many people a church is a special place and you may choose to marry in one for religious reasons. Churches are typically historical and are generally beautiful buildings that are intricately designed. Choosing to marry in one is great for adding a formal feel to your wedding ceremony and it can also help you to feel as though you are becoming part of an area’s history if, for example you get married in the town that you were born and raised.
Maybe relatives married there before you, which will add even more sentiment to your big day. Of course you will not be able to host your reception at church, so it will mean having to secure two locations for your wedding.
Barn
If it’s a rustic wedding that you are after a barn is the obvious choice, and they are also ideal for creative couples that have lots of their own ideas when it comes to decorating the venue. Most barns are blank canvas with very little detailing or decoration, meaning plenty of opportunity to make your own mark on the space and create the kind of day that you desire. A barn wedding is a trendy choice and lots offer great catering options and some stunning surroundings for wedding photos.
Hotel
Getting married in a hotel is great if you’re after the fuss free option, as most will have packages that you can choose from with everything that you need for an amazing day. Hotels will also employ event and wedding planners that can help you plan all of the details and will be there to put your mind at ease – wedding planning can be stressful after all! If you have a large extended family or lots of friends that will be travelling from far for your big day hotels are also ideal as it means that accommodation can be easily arranged.
Beach
Would you describe yourself and your partner as laidback and carefree? If yes, opt for a beach wedding in a dreamy destination that you have always wanted to visit. You can actually get married on the beach and then enjoy your reception at a nearby hotel, club or restaurant. Lots of people are concerned about the cost implications when it comes to beach weddings, but they don’t have to be as expensive as you might think. You can opt for more casual outfits and with exotic flowers and the freshest seafood more easily accessible, it’s easy to see where you can make quick savings.
Castle or Stately Home
For that real Fairytale feel, nowhere can beat the magic of a wedding that takes place in a castle or stately home. Most have stunning grounds too, and the beauty of a wedding at a castle or stately home is that it will be beautiful regardless of the time of year. During winter you can expect frost or snow on the ground, creating a whimsical atmosphere, while when the sun is shining you can spend time outside and capture some really lovely photos.
Which Venue is Right for You?
Home & Garden
Stylish Flooring for the Design Enthusiast
The flooring you choose for your home can set the tone for the rest of your design scheme, from sleek and modern to cosy and characterful.
Taking the time to choose the right style is key to pulling a look together, which is both stylish and practical.
Whether you’re drawn to a bold statement or prefer a timeless design, our experts are on hand to offer top tips and inspiration, guiding you to the perfect flooring that fits both your tastes and lifestyle.
Keep it cosy with carpet
“When choosing a coloured or patterned carpet, it’s wise to select shades which resonate with your taste and complement the colour palette in the rest of your home. Consider the feel you want your chosen room to have, dark ornate patterns add warmth and depth, while bright pared-back designs, create a light and airy feel.
Natural in appearance with no need to compromise on style, fibres such as wool and jute, when paired with neutral warm-cream beige tones, create a soothing ambience for living spaces. Ideal when bringing a touch of luxury to the home
If you need a hard-wearing carpet that’s going to stand the test of time, consider wool or faux carpets. Structured and textural, 100% wool fibres are ideal for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, stairs and landings. Providing soft comfort underfoot, they are also highly durable, resistant to dirt and extremely fire resistant. Perfect for busy homes, offering practicality and comfort."
Kirsty Barton, Brand Storytelling Manager, Alternative Flooring
Add a touch of sophisticated style with engineered wood flooring
"Finding the right flooring can often be one of the most difficult tasks of a renovation project. It can seem like endless samples flying through the post and yet none of them feel quite right against your furniture or style
of property. Thankfully bespoke flooring is now more accessible than ever, meaning homeowners can design their perfect plank. Here at Knot & Grain, we guide our customers through the process of selecting their style, grade, thickness, colour, texture and finish. With over 700 variations to choose from, customers can create a floor that’s unique to them and reflects their personal style.
When searching for engineered wood flooring, remember to seek out brands that meet industry standards and ensure their products come with a reputable manufacturer’s warranty. At Knot & Grain, all our floors meet these standards and are made from premium French Oak on top of an engineered Eucalyptus core - so you can rest assured that you’re investing in a floor that will stand the test of time. Additionally, all raw materials in the production of our floors are derived exclusively from sustainable forestry areas."
Natalie Mudd, Co-Founder and Creative Director, Knot & Grain
Introduce a rug for an instant colour pop
“When decorating your home, few pieces are as versatile and impactful as a rug. Capable of bringing a room together, while introducing a welcomed splash of colour, a rug provides the perfect base to build a design scheme upon. Contrary to popular belief, a rug makes for the perfect starting point when designing a room.
Doing so allows you to create a harmonious and inviting space that incorporates both texture and colour from the very start, rather than as a finishing touch. The key here is to carefully select the colour grouping and scale, choosing tones that pair beautifully, while making sure to select the right size
and shape to suit the furniture and space available. This approach paves the way for a living space that exudes visual interest whilst remaining functional and cohesive."
Kirsty Barton, Brand Storytelling Manager, Alternative Flooring
Bespoke Pristine Plank in 'Hay Bale' from £82 m2, Knot & Grain
Wool Iconic Laine Herringstripe carpet from £87 per m2, Alternative Flooring
Anywhere Ca-rPET Bouclé Re-source Runner with Tramlines Budapest Border from £137, Alternative Flooring
Bespoke Pristine Plank in colour 'Cotswold Stone' £82 per m2, Knot & Grain
mocha MOUSSE
Described as "nurturing us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee," Mocha Mousse embodies sophistication and versatility, making it a perfect choice for both individual expression and integrated design schemes.
Mocha Mousse is more than just a colour; it’s a lifestyle. To help you bring this chic hue into your home, My Furniture offers a selection of furniture and decorative pieces that embrace this earthy elegance while blending seamlessly with contemporary and traditional aesthetics
Sumptuous Seating: Indulge in the comfort of My Furniture’s Velvet Armchairs in soft, mocha-inspired tones. These elegant chairs offer a tactile richness that pairs perfectly with the warmth of Mocha Mousse walls or accents.
The Pantone Colour Institute has unveiled its highly anticipated Colour of the Year for 2025: PANTONE 17-1230
Mocha Mousse, a warming and rich brown that celebrates indulgence and comfort.
Statement Lighting : Add a sophisticated glow to your space with bronze or brassfinished lighting fixtures. My Furniture’s designs highlight the interplay of metallics and earthy shades, elevating any room’s ambience.
Sophisticated Storage: My Furniture’s walnut-finished cabinets and sideboards create a seamless look when paired with Mocha Mousse. Their clean lines and understated details allow the colour to shine as both a
feature and a backdrop.
Accents with Depth: Complete the look with textured cushions, mocha-toned rugs, and accessories like mirrors with bronze-tinted frames. These pieces layer the Mocha Mousse aesthetic for a polished, cohesive design.
As homes and workspaces continue to evolve into places of solace and inspiration, Mocha Mousse offers the ideal foundation. My Furniture’s exquisite collection ensures that anyone can incorporate this trending hue effortlessly.
Frankfurt Loveseat Silver Taupe, £799.99
Maeve Dining Chair, Taupe, £239.99
West End Swivel Dining Chair - Taupe - Brass Base, £269.99
Lorea Rug £289.99
Celia Bedside Table, £299.99
Colour Drenching
Drenching
Lucie Annabel Lemon Meringue Pie Eggshell Paint
Acapulco Yellow City, Hyperion Tiles £1.04 each Earthborn Paint in Cupcake, 2.5L
Lick Pink 03 Paint, £45
Lazy Quilt Throw In Pottery Pink Loaf £195
YesColours Calming Yellow 1litre Emulsion From £28
Ruan Round Mirror Yellow 70cm dar lighting group, £118
Blue & Gold Ballpoint Pen, Making
Wiggle Vase in Pink, not just a shop, £95 Candlemeleon Copper Feather 200g, £30
Watercolour Shell Art Navy Scallop Print - Natural Frame Beach House Art £49
With winter just around the corner, Dobbies Garden Centres has outlined its tips on what you should be doing in your garden at this time of year to prepare it for 2025.
Whether you’ve got a small container display on your balcony, a compact but colourful patio, or a large flower garden, Dobbies’ Plant Buyer, Nigel Lawton, says there are steps you can take in winter to protect your plants from harsh weather, plus set your plants in good stead for next year. Find out what gardening jobs you should be doing in winter and how to enjoy your garden during the colder seasons.
Tidy up
Nigel says one of the most important jobs you can do in your garden in winter is tidying up. Regularly raking dead leaves from your lawn will prevent diseases from spreading and will help you bulk out your compost at this time of year. Nigel notes keeping your lawn free from debris is also important to allow for access to air and sunlight – two things grass needs to survive. If the weather allows, you can still mow your lawn but avoid walking on your lawn when frosty as this could damage the blades of grass and leave yellow footprint marks.
Nigel says winter is also the perfect time to clean up your greenhouse and get it ready for spring planting. Wash the glass and the benches with horticultural disinfectant to kill any overwintering pests and diseases
Protect plants
Nigel says that protection is one of the most important parts of your winter gardening checklist to ensure plants and trees survive the season. Trees with stakes should be checked and straps tightened to help give support from strong winter winds. When colder weather sets in, Nigel advises using frost protection fleece to shield young and delicate plants from snow and ice. Exotic plants like Cordylines will benefit from frost protection but tropical plants like Citrus trees should be brought indoors over the winter months and placed in sunrooms or conservatories until the risk of frost has passed.
Nigel notes that another good way to safeguard plants’ roots from frost is to mulch flower beds with peat-free compost or bark. This will provide a layer of protection and also help keep weeds at bay over the winter months.To avoid container plants getting waterlogged during heavy rainfall, Nigel says you should raise these up on pot feet now to promote drainage.
Prune plants
Instant winter colour
Refreshing your containers and hanging baskets is a good way to give your winter garden a burst of colour and Nigel says that Skimmia Rubella and winter flowering Hellebores will produce a beautiful display and stand up to cold weather. In addition to these, dwarf Conifers, Leucothoe and Nandina are great to add structure to winter pots and frame your doorway all season long.
Nigel says that Sarcococca, commonly known as Christmas Box, is a great choice to bring fragrance to your garden at this time of year thanks to its sweet winter perfume. This evergreen plant is low maintenance and shade tolerant, making it ideal for doorsteps, and works well in containers.
For a vibrant display during warmer spells through winter until early spring, Nigel advises planting winter-flowering Violas and Pansies now in pots or flower beds.
An important job in the garden over winter is pruning Roses and other plants to ensure the harsh weather doesn’t damage them. Nigel recommends pruning Roses and Buddleja by half in winter to protect from wind-rock and then giving them a final prune in spring. Not only will this take the weight off the plant, but it will also encourage new growth next summer.
While some plants require pruning just now, Nigel advises not to prune early flowering lines such as Forsythia, Lilac and Flowering Currants which flower on previous years’ growth.
Water storage
When it comes to being more sustainable in the garden, Nigel says that winter is a fantastic time to collect rainfall in water butts for use in the summer months. Any shed, greenhouse or garage can be used to collect water and conserve it for next summer as long as it has gutters and a down pipe to a drain at ground level. Doing this will help you reduce water usage in the event of a long dry spell next summer and Nigel notes that rainwater is actually better for your plants as it is rich in nutrients.
Give yourself a wellbeing boost by injecting some eco-friendly elegance into the most essential room in the house.
All Weaver Green’s stylish rugs are woven from yarn made from recycled plastic bottles, helping to save the oceans and landfill from single-use litter. And because they are water-resistant, mould-resistant and easy to clean, these soft-to-the-touch rugs naturally lend themselves to life in the bathroom.
Scandi-inspired Chenille Rugs have a soft open weave and white zig-zag stripes, looking particularly beautiful on woodlook flooring. So soft under foot, they add a warm layer to bathroom floors. Available from £75 in a choice of Dove Grey, Chinchilla or Gooseberry, in six sizes.
Gorgeous Juno Rugs have a more striking geometric pattern. While feeling as soft as wool, they are extremely hardwearing and add a pop of colour in Teal, Navy, Lichen and Gooseberry, as well as the more neutral Chinchilla, Dormouse and Dove Grey. Available in six sizes from £85.
Showcasing traditional motifs and a stunning sky blue colourway, the Anatolia Rug will add a breath of fresh air to your bathroom or wet room. These handloomed kilim rugs use our most refined yarn for extra softness and a tighter durable weave. Available in seven sizes start from £235. Bring the warmth and vibrancy of India to your bathroom with the Raja Imperial Rug, inspired by the palace flags in Udaipur. These rugs are woven by skilled kilim
how often do you focus your interior efforts on rooms like the living room and bedroom, but neglect the bathroom?
weavers and have a superior flatweave, perfect for high footfall areas. Priced from £235 and available in five sizes. In contrast, the faded beauty of the Andalucia Paloma Rug features blueygreen tones, with a touch of saffron and pink for a more boho vibe. Priced from £165 and available in eight sizes.
Weaver Green’s Polperro Rugs feature a classic stripe, available in vibrant Gooseberry and Coral, as well as more subtle shades of Dove Grey and Chinchilla. Polperro’s super-soft wool-like finish takes the edge off cold, hard floors when you step out of the bath or shower. Available in six sizes and priced from just £55.
The delightful, geometric design of Medina Tangier Rugs offers a striking pattern, bringing freshness to a plain bathroom floor. Available in seven sizes and priced from £165.
Suitable for both indoors and outside, all of Weaver Green’s rugs are child- and pet-friendly. They are cosy underfoot, washable, claw-resistant and uninteresting to moths, which is great news for allergy sufferers.
Medina Tangier Rug from £165
Raja Imperial Rug, £235
Navy Provence Rug, £55
As Valentines Day - and night - draws closer, it's the perfect time to give your bedroom a romantic refresh. Transform your bedroom into a cosy, love-filled sanctuary with these elements:
Colour and Texture
Gentle tones of soft pink, sky blue, buttermilk and mocha give a romantic feel to the bedroom, while soft touches such as velvet cushions, wool throws and upholstered furniture add to the mood of love. Natural materials such as cotton and wool are enduring, tactile and super comfortable, allowing the body to breathe all night. Boucle and velvet are a popular option for the bedroom, instantly adding a layer of luxury and comfort.
Lighting & Mood
make a statement this valentines
Ambient lighting is vital for a gorgeously romantic evening. Soft candlelight sets
the mood perfectly, and a luscious pile of plump pillows, soft throws and layers of bedlinen draws the eye and makes the bedroom even more inviting.
Check out the Sienna Collection at Feather & Black which epitomises this look with a range of beds in rattan and oak as well as co-ordinating wardrobes and bedside tables
The Hero Piece - the bed
The bed is the focal point of any bedroom, and it's worth making an investment in a beautiful bed made to last. Create hotel-style looks at home with statement headboards in generous proportions, instantly drawing the eye upwards. Sink into an upholstered headboard in velvet or linen for supreme comfort, or go all-in for a contemporary four-poster bed, the ultimate in alluring romance!
Classic French style remains eternally popular - fashioned in weathered oak, the curved lines and cabriole legs exude glamour.
Clear the Clutter
Create a serene atmosphere in the bedroom by clearing away any bits and bobs. Good storage is vital, and here is where an Ottoman Bed can help - the storage beneath the bed can easily house spare bedlinen, towels and unseasonal clothing for the calm, cool feeling that creates an air of tranquillity. Add even more space with an Ottoman footstool which can also double up as extra seating.
Relax
Bedroom chairs are becoming very popular - making the space extrainviting. A plump boucle or faux fur chair looks so inviting, while a sumptuous velvet chair adds colour, shape and style. Feather & Black offer a gorgeous collection of occasional chairs including the new Vermont , the epitome of decadence at any time of year!
Vermont Chair £599
Louis Bed Frame from £1,299
Cocoon Bed Frame, £1199
Sienna Blue Velvet Bench, £799
Sienna bed from £999
New year, houseplantsnew
Taking down decorations after the festive season can make our homes feel a bit bare, so January is the perfect time to welcome life and vibrancy back into your space with houseplants.
Whether you’re looking to fill the space your Christmas tree left, spruce up some empty shelves, or add a pop of greenery to a neutral bathroom, Dobbies’ new houseplant range for 2025 offers a varied selection for all areas of the home.
Dobbies’ Senior Plant Buyer, Claire Bishop chats through what houseplants people can find at the garden centre in the new year, and the benefits of bringing greenery indoors.
Botanical Bathrooms
Claire says that houseplants can transform your bathroom into a serene, spa-like retreat, and notes that this is a great environment for some plant varieties to thrive. Ferns and other green plants are a good choice for bathrooms as they do well with humidity, and Succulents are also great for this room thanks to their compact nature.
When choosing plants for your bathroom, Claire says you should consider the light levels and temperature. Low-light plants like the air purifying Calathea (prayer plant) do well in bathrooms thanks to their ability to survive with little natural light, and will enhance your space
with its visually striking foliage. Tillandsia, also known as Spanish Moss, is also a fantastic plant for bathrooms and can be styled hanging down from shelves with Ivy for a tropical vibe.
Kitchen
Greenery
If you’re looking to brighten up your kitchen and give it a fresh look and feel for the new year, Claire says there are plenty of houseplants that do well in this space. Fill empty shelves and corners with the air purifying Spathiphyllum, or Peace Lily. These elegant plants are proven to remove toxins from the air so can make your kitchen feel brighter and fresher, and they’re easy to look after, requiring little to no maintenance on a day-today basis.
Other houseplants that will elevate a kitchen environment
include the Monstera, or Cheese plant. Ideal for making an impact, the dramatic Monstera with its glossy leaves is also an air purifier. Claire suggests pairing it with the Dypsis, or Parlour palm, as the different layers of textures and height will create an interesting effect.
Uplifting Living Spaces
Houseplants are a wonderful way to welcome joy into living spaces and can help dark rooms appear brighter with their vibrant leaves. For a full effect, Claire recommends grouping different sizes of plants together. Larger palms can be styled with small Chlorophytum comosums, or Spider plants, and trailing plants in baskets for a jungle feel.
Claire notes that larger climbing plants can be supported with moss poles to encourage growth and stability. Position these plants in a bright spot near a window but out of direct sunlight and water when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
From vibrant robins to curious blackbirds, help the wild birds this year with B&M’s selection of durable and stylish wild bird boxes! Find everything you need to provide safe nesting and roosting spots for birds in your local area. From bird boxes and houses, to tasty treats and food, you can help to keep birds content and warm, especially in the winter months. B&M have a range of designs including the police phone box feeder and honeycomb feeder which are perfect for helping to introduce children to the beauty of nature.
POLICE PHONE BOX FEEDER
SQUIRREL CAFÉ
POST
SOLAR
New year,new home
INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025
Leading housebuilders Barratt and David Wilson Homes have collaborated with design experts, Blocc Interiors, to share some upcoming trends for homeowners in Nottinghamshire to consider.
Karl Openshaw, Creative Director at Blocc Interiors, said: “When looking ahead to 2025, I’ve highlighted trends that stood out at the Maison and Objet show in Paris, which provide strong indications of what we can expect in the coming year.
“Home buyers and those interested in interior design can also find some accessible trends that relate more closely to consumer preferences, along with simple DIY tips on how to integrate these into the home. Lastly, I’ve included key colours. While colour preferences vary significantly across generational groups and demographics, I’ve kept the overview broad to avoid anything too bold.”
Martyn Parker, Sales Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes, said: “It’s fascinating to hear Blocc’s insight into interior design in 2025. We hope to welcome many visitors looking for inspiration to our show homes over the course of the year.”
For anyone that worries about pairing furnishing, flooring and curtains with carpets, Blocc Interiors’ top tips to decorate a new home in 2025 include:
The Revelations of Maison and Objet
Many key trends were identified at Maison and Objet, the world-famous interior design show in Paris. This included themes such as ‘tender brutalism’, which combines industrial elements like stone or metal with soft textures and plush furnishings.
Another is ‘new heritage’, a revival of traditional craftsmanship, but with a modern twist. Designers are embracing
heritage techniques like weaving, embroidery, and woodworking while integrating contemporary aesthetics and sustainable materials.
Recycling and repurposing of materials are still emerging. There is a strong presence with papier-mâché, repurposed yarns, and plastics.
Top Tips for Interior Design and DIY
Stepping into 2025, natural materials and feeling connected to the outdoors is very on-theme. Organic materials like stone, clay, and reclaimed wood bring warmth and tactility into spaces, creating a grounded and calming atmosphere.
Home is becoming a canvas for selfexpression, with art displays curated to reflect the unique personality of the owner. Homeowners can create a gallery wall with personal photos, vintage frames, and eclectic artwork. Mix sizes and styles for a balanced yet interesting look. Start with one large anchor piece and build around it. Wellness and mindfulness are at the forefront, so 2025 interiors will emphasise calm, quiet spaces for relaxation and mental clarity. Create a cosy nook by layering soft textiles like throws and cushions, and adding calming, natural scents, like lavender or eucalyptus sprigs, can turn any corner into a mini retreat.
For details about any developments in the area,
Colour Forecast
For 2025, we're seeing a blend of rich, earthy hues and serene, nature-inspired tones, perfect for creating warmth and depth in interiors. Terracotta and clay are warm, grounding shades that add a natural feel. This could be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or traditional ceramics and planters. Similarly, deep olive and moss green connects us to nature and has a soothing effect. Soft furnishings like rugs and throws in calming spaces could be perfect.
Soft ochre and warm mustard bring a modern twist on yellow and adds vibrancy without overpowering. Blocc would recommend these colours for vases and side chairs. With a range of other colours and tones including rich plum and aubergine, optimistic red, tranquil blues and mineral tones, and charcoal and slate grey, it is all aimed at capturing a natural feeling in the home that can help soothe the senses and generate a welcoming atmosphere.
Barratt and David Wilson Homes regularly work with Blocc Interiors when decorating their show homes, which can be viewed at a number of developments around Nottinghamshire to see how different interior design ideas can be implemented.
The Ennerdale kitchen and dining space at The Elms
The main bedroom of the Greenwood show home at Heritage Grange
TOP TIPS TO DECLUTTER IN THE NEW YEAR
Housebuilders Barratt and David Wilson Homes are encouraging Nottinghamshire residents to think proactively in the new year when decluttering and rearranging their homes.
The new year sparks a new beginning, and the vision of a well-organised, clutter-free home is high on the list of priorities for many. In collaboration with The Declutter Hub, Barratt and David Wilson Homes have compiled a list of top tips to help residents put their best foot forward.
Ingrid Jansen and Lesley Spellman from The Declutter Hub have nearly 30 years’ experience helping to motivate and support people overwhelmed with clutter. When asked how residents can declutter their home in the new year, Ingrid and Lesley compiled a five-point plan.
Take it Easy
Clutter accumulates quickly and is far harder to get rid of, so residents shouldn’t expect it to disappear overnight. If things take longer than first thought, it’s okay. The trick is not to berate themselves and celebrate even the small victories to help boost a positive mental attitude.
Set
Goals
The biggest mistake most make is jumping headlong into a project without a plan for the outcome. Taking time to vision the big picture whether the project is turning a dumping room into a home office, or simply making space in a wardrobe is crucial. Keeping that vision firmly planted in their heads while carrying out the project is another great way to stay motivated.
Start Small, One Cupboard at a Time When tackling a project, homeowners need
to think about their energy levels, how much time they have and what other tasks might come their way. They need to make sure to declutter when their energy is at its best. If they’re not a morning person, leave the decluttering to later in the day. Also, they need to break it down - one hour at a time works for many but there is no need to overdo it.
Build up Decluttering Muscle
negotiable! Once resets become a habit, chores become part of daily life and not an additional stress.
When asked for a final comment Ingrid and Lesley, said: “January is the perfect time to think about decluttering, but don't expect it to happen overnight.
Starting with easier, less emotional rooms like a kitchen, bathroom or linen cupboard can be beneficial. There may still be some tricky items that are harder to let go of, but normally these rooms are more straightforward. Once the decluttering muscle has started to flex, it’s easier to move onto more tricky categories like books, paperwork and sentimental items.
Incorporate Daily Resets
Every day, sometimes several times a day, everyone will need to reset. A morning reset and an evening reset are essential. The more they’re done, the less time they take. A reset is a combination of tidying and cleaning and includes a list of non-negotiables.
Non-negotiables might be putting on one load of laundry a day, wiping down work surfaces, unloading the dishwasher, sweeping the floor. Everyone’s non-negotiables are different, but they need to be just that - not
"Planning and breaking down jobs into realistic chunks means you'll be motivated by progress as you go, and your goal of having a more organised home in 2025 will become much more achievable.”
Martyn Parker, Sales Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes, said: “Starting the new year in a positive way is important to our residents across Nottinghamshire and we want to help them achieve their goals.
“We would like to thank The Declutter Hub for sharing these amazing tips, which will no doubt help to keep everyone’s home feeling fresh and organised.”
For more information about The Declutter Hub, visit the website. Other resources available include The Declutter Hub Podcast and the soon to be released book, Reset Your Home, Unpack Your Emotions And Your Clutter, Step By Step.
For more information about Barratt and David Wilson Homes or any of its developments in the area, visit the websites at Barratt Homes in Nottinghamshire or David Wilson Homes in Nottinghamshire
A typical study in a David Wilson Homes property at Old Mill Farm in Brinsley
High Level of interest from house buyers at The Paddocks
IN NETHER BROUGHTON
Local Developer Williams Homes have released all Nine properties on their development in Nether Broughton which is Located on Dalby Road in this charming Leicestershire village in the Vale of Belvoir.
Local Developer Williams Homes have released all Nine properties on their development in Nether Broughton which is Located on Dalby Road in this charming Leicestershire village in the Vale of Belvoir, This small development offers a range of 2, 3 and 4 bed homes which offers potential homebuyers the chance to become part of a thriving local community.
All the houses at the Paddocks benefit from fully fitted kitchens with Quartz Worktops, kardean flooring and a range of Quality Bosch appliances. The bathrooms and en-suites are luxuriously designed and are fitted with Villaroy and Boch sanitary ware with quality chrome fittings. White towel radiators and porcelanosa ceramic wall tiles.
Our new homes will provide purchasers with a highly efficient home and a new concept of living. One of the key advantages is there will be
NO Gas bills to pay. By using an Air heat source pump to provide heating and hot water, it is possible to greatly reduce CO2 emissions. Also as standard all homes includes solar panels, security alarms and electric vehicle charging points.
Ian Anderson Sales director of Williams Homes said “We are very excited with the release of our New Homes at the Paddocks and we have received a high level of interest with 5 of the plots already
Education
Take advantage of Kumon
At your local Kumon Beeston Study Centre, our aim is to help children of any age and any ability discover their full potential and achieve beyond expectations. With 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English Study Programmes enable students to develop into confident, independent learners.
Our programmes provide all children with a unique opportunity to excel in their studies. Even in these challenging times, Kumon Instructors are able to support your child at home through video calls, online study sessions and in centre classes. Families are finding them an excellent way of interacting with their Kumon Instructor and other students, helping to keep their learning on track, which is crucial at this unprecedented time.
This can increase their enjoyment across a wide range of subjects at school, whilst also preparing them for personal and professional success later in life. We believe this opportunity to grow on both an academic and a personal level should be available to all children. That is why we are offering a one week Free Trial to all new students at our study centre.
Your child will be assessed so that your Kumon Instructor can tailor their level
of study precisely to their ability. Our individualised worksheets are set at just the right level for your child to advance in their studies, at their own pace. They will receive personalised ongoing support from their Kumon Instructor, who will carefully monitor their progress.
To find out how Kumon can help your child
excel, book a consultation with your local Ofsted registered study centre. The Kumon Beeston Study Centre is located at Chilwell Road Methodist Church, Chilwell Road with classes running on Fridays from 5.15pm to 7.30pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 12.30pm. You can contact your local Instructor, Kailash Dal, on 01159 193578or email beeston@kumoncentre.co.uk.
A CATHOLIC SCHOOL THAT WELCOMES ALL
As a Catholic, co-educational, day and boarding school for students aged 3-18, we are much more than just a school; we are a family-orientated community committed to the transformation of young minds, hearts, bodies and souls, in the pursuit of all-round excellence. We welcome all faiths within our fine traditions and buildings, while embracing the latest in new facilities and teaching practices.
Set in 200 acres of beautiful grounds, students benefit daily by working and playing within a truly inspirational physical environment.
The College’s inclusive Catholic ethos is complemented by the outstanding quality of the College’s community through which the College’s Mission, “Learning and Growing in the Light of the Gospel”.
Young people leave Ratcliffe with a strong sense of who they are and their purpose in the world, equipped to make a difference to the communities in which they live and work.
Ratcliffe College has been judged ‘Excellent’ in all areas (ISI Inspection, 2022).
Academic Excellence
We are committed to getting the very best out of our students and provide every opportunity for them to exceed expectations, realise their full potential and achieve the highest grades possible.
With a winning combination of excellent teaching, small class sizes and stateof-the-art facilities, our pupils benefit from a rich learning environment and consequently attain significantly higher grades than predicted – top 1% value added results at A Level.
An All-Round Education
To succeed academically, we believe that young people need to grow and learn outside the classroom too. Our programme provides the perfect balance of academic and co-curricular activities. Pupils have choice from an enormous range of clubs, societies, and new experiences weekly. Our cocurricular programme revolves around the “Big Six” – Chaplaincy, Sport, Music, Drama, Combined Cadet Force, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Outstanding Facilities and Campus Ratcliffe College benefits from outstanding facilities and cutting-edge academic spaces, inspiring a love of learning for all. The College campus and facilities encourage students to excel and provides a safe community and environment in which to live and grow.
The campus boasts from:
• Nursery and Preparatory School
• Forest School
• Emery Library Study Hub
• Sixth Form Centre, with a modern business café and independent study facilities
• College Chapel
• Refurbished Boarding accommodation and communal spaces
• Indoor swimming pool
• Carbon-zero buildings
• State-of-the-art Fitness Suite
• The tranquil Lockhart Garden
• High-performance theatre, galleries and music facilities
• Athletics Track
• Floodlit and all-weather pitches (multi-sports)
Boarding at Ratcliffe Boarding at Ratcliffe has long been part of the College’s history. With a strong international flavour and a popular
home-from-home for British students too, Boarding at Ratcliffe offers a truly unique experience in a safe, community-led environment.
We provide a structured environment that encourages independence, selfreliance and personal responsibility. Students aged 10 and above can board full-time, weekly or on a flexible basis. All students enjoy a comprehensive, engaging programme of activities and excursions arranged for evenings and weekends, including city trips to London, Oxford, Cambridge and York.
The very best way to discover life at Ratcliffe is to come and see us for yourself. Join us at our next Open Morning on Saturday 1st March 2025, or book a private one-to-one visit at: ratcliffecollege.com/visits/private-visit.
DISCOVER A LOVE OF LEARNING AT MOUNT ST MARY’S COLLEGE
At the Mount, children have the freedom to explore their passions and expand their horizons, encouraging a love of learning from the day they join us to the day they leave.
Our students, or Mountaineers, as they are affectionately known, gain the confidence to be themselves and are celebrated for their individuality. Children thrive at Mount St Mary’s College.
We are a Jesuit School, educating children of all faiths and none, focusing on the Jesuit ethos of caring for the whole person. We see your child as an individual, with unique interests and strengths.
With a broad curriculum of GCSE and A Level courses, we help students achieve and exceed their academic goals, bettering the national result averages and improving on our own records
year on year. Our careers advisors work with our students so that they achieve their dreams, with many of our Sixth Formers attending top tier universities for further study after life at the Mount. Outside of the classroom, the co-curricular programme offers opportunities to discover new hobbies and talents. From robotics to rugby, there is something for every child to experience.
We strongly encourage prospective families to contact us to arrange a private tour ahead of our Autumn Open Days. Meet our Headmaster, teachers, and students to find out what makes the Mount such a special place to live, learn and work.
The Oddfellows is the trading name of The Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society Limited, incorporated and registered in England and Wales No. 223F. Registered Office Oddfellows House, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB
Care
Prices lower than you’d think, with no hidden costs
A range of specialist surgeries available including hip, knee, hernia, weight loss surgery and cataracts
Flexible finance options available
Complimentary transport service for knee or hip replacement patients**
Hip and knee replacement
At Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough we specialise in orthopaedic surgery such as hip and knee replacements, general surgery such as hernia repairs, and cataract surgery.
We are rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and we pride ourselves on our patient-centred care, excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction scores.
Our experienced consultants specialise in the treatments they offer and are experts in their fields. We are conveniently located just one mile from junction 30 and we have ample free parking.
For those who would rather pay for themselves or use their private health insurance, our Wellsoon private healthcare from Practice Plus Group offers faster access to high quality treatment for less than other private hospitals - so you can get back to your best sooner than you thought, and for less than you might think.
We also off er a free patient transport service to anyone who has a knee or hip replacement through our Wellsoon private surgery option who lives within a 50 mile radius. We know that getting to and from hospital can be a logistical worry for some and want to help make things easier for our patients and carers.
David recently had a private hip replacement with Wellsoon at Practice Plus Group Barlborough and used the patient transport service.
He said: “I was delighted when I was told I could have my surgery within 4-6 weeks, as I was keen to get back out walking. The team were very helpful and even offered a complimentary patient transport service to the hospital and back – around 20 miles away - for my surgery. This was welcome news as I was beginning to worry about who might take me to and from the hospital as my wife doesn’t drive.
“There was no issue with arranging pick up times as the hospital liaises directly with the driver. I didn’t have to worry about when he would be available to take me home either and could stay in hospital as long as I needed to. It all worked perfectly. It was especially reassuring that the driver had a medical background so he could completely understand and could advise me on a few tips to manoeuvre myself into the house and start the recovery process.”
Call us today at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Barlborough on 01246 941500 to chat about your choices.
HOLLYGATE MEMORIAL WOODLANDS
A.M. Buckingham Independent Family Funeral Services began in Cotgrave in 2008 when owner Tony Buckingham established Cotgrave & District Funeral Services. Since then, they have enjoyed a growing reputation for excellent service and competitive pricing. To enhance their service capacity we have opened branches in Clifton, Carlton and now Bingham, to allow us to serve the wider Nottinghamshire and surrounding areas.
We can arrange all aspects of a funeral and offers each type of service from direct cremation to bespoke funeral services. Each branch is staffed by empathetic and understanding people who will listen to your requirements and help with every aspect of the funeral arrangements. Each branch has a private arranging room and chapel of rest.
We can also offer a dark blue hearse and two matching 7 seat limousines, allowing family members to travel together to the funeral service. Our staff are always on hand to help and advice with all your funeral arrangements.
We solely manage and maintain Hollygate memorial woodlands, situated on Hollygate Lane to the north east of Cotgrave. The woods were planted in 2011 as a conservation woodland to promote the conservation and reintroduction of birds into this area by planting a variety of native broadleaved species.
The planting is naturalistic with open unplanted rides giving access to the 5 separate woods and spinnies. There is an active management scheme in place to help with the establishment of the trees. The company are actively planting more species such as pollen rich plants in the open ride areas to enhance insect life to further encourage all types of bird. Some areas will be left more natural to further help the insects and small animals.
There is a water source at the bottom of the woods, the Grantham canal, which has a large population of amphibious creatures and water based insects to further enhance the wildlife populations. We offer you the opportunity to choose a specific tree and have it as your own growing memorial to the departed loved one. The woods are private but by leasing a tree you also have the right to enter any time and walk or sit in the quiet of the woodlands.
Alternatively, we do offer full burial plots if cremation is not an option for you. We can supply coffins, caskets, urns and pouches made from natural and biodegradable materials for the interment of remains, to ensure the woodlands continue to develop into a natural environment.
There are many species of trees and shrubs that you can choose as a living memorial for your loved one, including mighty Oaks, flowering Cherry, Ash, Willow, Silver Birch and fruiting Hawthorne or festive Holly. Alternatively, you can choose a family plot where up to 6 cremated remains can be interred around a single tree.
We also have supplies of native woodland plants, sourced from sustainable sites, that can be planted around the memorial sites.
Please feel free to contact any of our offices below for more information.
Cotgrave: 6 the Precinct, Cotgrave, Nottingham, NG23 3JQ (0115) 9890060
Bereavement can leave people feeling sad, lost, and sometimes confused, but an appropriate funeral and memorial can bring great comfort and peace. At the Willows Natural Burial Ground, the tranquil surroundings of wildflower meadows, woodland, and ponds can provide great solace for those left behind as they remember the person or people they have lost.
The Willows is a 10-acre family-owned natural burial site near South Croxton, with commanding views of the Charnwood countryside, where people can be buried in hand dug graves in eco-friendly coffins or caskets, made of biodegradable materials such as cardboard, willow, wool or banana leaf to name a few. Conversely, their ashes can be buried or sub-surface scattered, either in bio-degradable urns or simply poured into or onto the ground.
A range of commemorative memorials are available, made of natural materials such as Welsh slate, and wood, while many people choose to remember their loved ones by planting a tree or native rose bush.
Owners Chris and Jenny Scroby and their family, have been transforming the bare fields with extensive tree and bulb planting since
opening in 2011, inviting families of the buried or pre-purchased plots, to join in at planting weekends. They recently purchased another 3,750 native British bluebell, snowdrop and daffodil bulbs, whilst simultaneously raising money for local charities.
The Willows caters for people of all faiths or no faith. The site can accommodate graveside funerals or act solely as a burial site after a service elsewhere. If families do have a service on site, their fee includes provision of a small pop-up shelter, with limited seating and soft drinks for those attending.
The natural burial option is a cost-effective alternative to a traditional cemetery burial or cremation.
Chris and Jenny work with the family’s chosen funeral directors to ensure everything goes smoothly, whilst respecting the parameters set out to protect and promote the site as a natural, wildlife friendly environment.
Chris says: “We’re very pleased with our progress, which we see as our contribution in giving something back to nature and the environment.”
Control Your Scroll
Local Clinical Psychologist helps children to control their social media.
According to Nottingham City’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy data, more than 5,000 children aged 5 to 16 living in Nottingham are living with mental health problems1. The world we live in today is very different to 10 years agowith the digital landscape continuously evolving, young people are growing up in an unrecognisable society. In this guide, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Purple House Clinic Nottingham, Dr Elizabeth Lee, shares her expert advice on the simple digital hacks and mental health strategies that parents can encourage to help their children create the best online experience.
Pros and cons
When used appropriately, social media has many benefits. It allows instant connections and communications to be formed with friends and family members – preventing loneliness, people can utilise their platforms as a creative outlet where they can express themselves, and it provides instant access to entertainment and information. Social media also has educational value by enabling students, teachers, and parents to get useful information easily, connect with learning groups, and access educational systems. However, social media, if misused, can also have a negative impact on its users. With increased levels of online communication comes online bullying, misinformation, the risk of scams, a potential lack of privacy and social media addiction – all of which can have a negative impact on mental health. By controlling and limiting the way you use social media, you can reap the benefits while avoiding any of these harmful habits.
Privacy
It’s essential in today’s age where everyone has access to each other’s online profiles that you are being conscious of your privacy. By limiting what you post about yourself, you can control how much you are being perceived and therefore how much people – whom you may not know in real life – know about you from your social media. It can also be beneficial to control who you follow and what content you see. You only want to come across posts that bring you joy or that you are interested in, so to avoid accounts that annoy, upset, or make you feel bad in any way, simply unfollow or ‘mute’ them from your feed. What’s posted on social media has the potential to remain on the internet forever, so you should contact others carefully. Being mindful about what you say to others helps to reinforce that positive atmosphere that we are trying to create, but it is also important
to remember that not everybody on the internet is trustworthy.
Don’t compare yourself
Comparison is the thief of joy. People only post things that they want others to see – social media isn’t reality; it’s a highlight reel. Try to use social media as an opportunity to engage and connect rather than as a place where you compare yourself to others. This can be easier said than done, but by practising being aware of your scrolling habits you can begin to identify which posts make you feel good or bad about yourself.
Don’t let statistics determine your self-worth
Sometimes social media can seem like a popularity competition. It is easy to become fixated on the number of likes or followers you have compared to others – but in reality, no one is checking each other’s statistics because they’re too worried about their own! For your own peace of mind, it’s useful to hide like counts on your posts so that you’re not sat watching the numbers. Try not to take social media too seriously – it’s supposed to be fun!
Live in the moment
Everything is digital nowadays, so it’s important to set time limits and take breaks from social media. Living in the moment has proven to increase an individual’s productivity, create better relationships and reduce stress. On the other hand, continuously staring at screens for long periods of time can create feelings of loneliness, anxiety and depression. It’s important to go outside and get fresh air every day, so take a step back from your phone every so often and find a fun activity to do. This could be going for a walk, catching up with your friends, going to the gym etc. Physical health and mental health are closely linked, and by getting just a few minutes of natural light everyday you can promote better sleep and a boosted immune system from the vitamin D in sunlight.
It's also crucial to understand the different ways in which adults and children are hardwired to respond to the impact of social media access. In adults, the brain is equipped with a strong braking system (called executive functioning), which helps us to stop ourselves from acting inappropriately when we’re angry, among other impulsive behaviours. In teens, however, the prefrontal cortex – where executive functioning takes place – isn’t fully developed. So, it’s harder for teens to regulate their emotions – both on and offline.
Teenagers crave approval from
their peers and social media challenges this. Teens often feel pressure to keep up with the latest online trends, in anticipation of a social reward – taking breaks can help people recognise that this isn’t necessary.
Switch off
Mentally and physically switching off from your phone is key for proper relaxation. The blue light from our phones and other devices can negatively impact our quality of sleep, but getting a good night's rest is important for regulating your mood. Try to log off from social media and shut down your screens about an hour before bedtime to allow time for your mind to rest.
Utilise online and in-person mental health tools
There are so many online resources available for people with mental health difficulties, and using these can help to track your mood, seek support or practise relaxation. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to a professional is the best thing you can do.
Dr Lee concludes, “Having worked for over 20 years supporting people with mental health difficulties, I am proud to be able to utilise my skills, alongside my team, to help others. With the world so quickly evolving, it can be daunting for anyone, but support is always available.
“At Purple House Clinic, we offer services for both adults and children, helping a range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, phobias, PTSD and complex trauma through a variety of therapies and assessments.”
Caring for someone with dementia
Dementia is a degenerative condition that impacts on a person’s ability to remember and make decisions, meaning that it gets progressively worse over time. Despite this, there are still things that can be done to support a person with dementia in their daily life. If you are caring for somebody or have a relative or friend that has dementia, here are some ways that you can improve their quality of life and make communicating with them easier.
Encourage them to reminisce
Dementia affects a person’s short-term memory, but often their long-term memory remains intact. Because of this, it is a good idea to keep items near them that will encourage them to refer to their past, which is a great way to spark conversations and make them feel less anxious. Photographs of family holidays or milestone events are a good idea, as are favourite films and favourite pieces of music.
Make the most of memory aids
Performing everyday tasks that would have previously been second nature become a challenge for somebody with dementia, particularly because of how forgetful they can become. Because of this, memory aids can be really helpful.
You could put signs on cupboards and doors so that the person knows where to find certain items or leave notes around the house to remind them to lock doors and switch things off.
Actively empathise
Caring for somebody with dementia can be frustrating and difficult, especially if their mood changes dramatically. Despite the challenges it is important to try your best to not get upset or angry. Instead, put yourself in their shoes and imagine how it would feel to rely on others for support and forget things consistently. Emphasising and talking with a
their challenges and the things that upset them is one of the best ways that you can help.
Plan for the future
Because of the nature of the disease, a person’s symptoms will get worse over time, so it is important to consider how their care needs may change in the future too. You may want to speak to other friends and relatives and ask if they can help too, and you may need to consider whether community care or a care home is the next logical step for your loved one.
Dementia is believed to affect over 850,000 people in the UK, and that figure is set to rise in the future. Here we look at ways to support a loved one living with the condition
Hospital cleaner makes big impact on patient experience
Jackie was a patient at Highbury Hospital over seven years ago and here she shares more about her story and how she received fantastic care. She talks about how the facilities assistant on her ward left a lasting impact for her kindness and support. She highlights how all staff have a part to play in patient care. They were recently reunited, and Jackie had the opportunity to say thank you in person.
Jackie was a patient at Highbury Hospital over seven years ago and here she shares more about her story and how she received fantastic care. She talks about how the facilities assistant on her ward left a lasting impact for her kindness and support. She highlights how all staff have a part to play in patient care. They were recently reunited, and Jackie had the opportunity to say thank you in person.
Jackie had been struggling with her mental health for around 18 months prior to her admission and felt in a really dark place, and following her second suicide attempt she was sectioned at Highbury Hospital for her own safety. Jackie first met Linda, Facilities Assistant, on her second day on the ward, she would come in every day to clean.
Jackie said: “At first I wasn’t communicating with her, as I wasn’t communicating with anyone. The more she came in, the more I made myself talk to her and it was lovey, she was really nice and kind and when I knew she was coming in it was something to look forward to.”
She continued: “one particular day I woke up and felt as if I was ok again, I rang my daughter Kerry and I said “Your mum’s back”, and I felt marvellous.
“I went out to lunch with my other daughter, Nicola, and my wonderful husband Pete, and had a lovely day. When I got back and went for medications and the lovely staff nurse said, “I heard you’ve had a really good day” and I said “it’s been wonderful”. The next morning Jackie woke up and felt as bad as she used to feel.
Linda came in to the room and said “are you alright Jackie?”, Jackie said: “I told her yesterday I had such a wonderful day and now I felt back to square one. She went to see the staff nurse and told her how I was feeling. The nurse came to see me and reassured me it was normal, and that now I’ve had a good day I could focus on having more good days. Linda was so friendly and that day stuck in my mind, she’d gotten to know me and recognised I wasn’t right and knew she needed to fetch someone.”
Before Jackie retired she worked as a Senior Sister/ Lead Nurse/ Emergency Nurse Practitioner, General and Paediatric Registered Nurse, in A and E at Bassetlaw Hospital, Worksop. She felt her support workers were her extra eyes and ears, and would ask them to raise any safeguarding
concerns with her because she couldn’t see everything whilst managing the ward. Highlighting again how everyone has a part to play in looking after patients and keeping people safe.
“Linda took that part, she realised someone needed some help and went to the staff nurses and got that help. It would have set me back without that.”
Jackie stayed at Highbury for about six weeks and she is now doing really well. She often thought about Linda and one day whilst at Highbury Hospital, as part of her Involvement Partner role, she took on with the Trust, she mentioned her experience to a manager, Zenn, and what an important part the cleaner on the ward had been, but that unfortunately she couldn’t remember her name.
Jackie said: “He enquired with a team leader from the ward and told me her name was Linda. I asked Zenn if he had chance, could he get a message to Linda, thanking her so much for the part she played in helping my recovery. Tell her I will never forget her kindness.”
A few weeks later Jackie was speaking at the Trust induction for new starters, which she does every month if she can. Telling them her story and journey with her own mental health issues, and as a surprise Linda was there to meet her. “It was such an emotional moment, I could not believe it.”
Linda said: “Jackie is a lovely lady and when she was a patient, she used to talk to me about being a nurse before and chat to me a little bit about her life.
“I remember one day she didn’t want to eat, and I said come and look, just have a little bit, so she did. I didn’t realise the impact I’d had on her, but it made me feel like my job is worthwhile, and it was nice to
hear how much I had helped her. It was an emotional moment when we met, she was shaking. She said thank you, I had a chat with her and met her family, which was lovely.”
One of the things Linda loves most about her job is seeing the improvement in the patients as they start to get well.
Kazia Foster, Deputy Director, Mental Health Care Group at Nottinghamshire Healthcare said: “It is fantastic to hear Jackie’s story about the support she received from Linda, and how this made such a big difference to her while she was a patient. It really highlights the importance of all colleagues, clinical and non-clinical, and how they can all make a difference to patient experience. We’re delighted to hear how well Jackie is doing now and pleased we were able to reunite Jackie and Linda again in person. Thank you Linda for being such a dedicated colleague, and for all you do for our patients.”
Jackie had a good experience as a patient at Highbury, she thought it was a lovely ward, with a marvellous consultant and nurses but it’s important to remember that everyone has a part to play and despite not being clinical, Linda really made a difference to her care.
Jackie decided she’d like to try and give something back and she now works as an Involvement Partner with the Trust. Jackie can wear three hats, using her experience of being a service user, carer and as a former senior nurse. She’s involved with interviews, carers meetings, training, inductions. She’s happy to do anything, as long as it makes a difference to someone.
If you’re interested in being an Involvement Partner you can find out more on our website.
