Lincolnshire Pride November 2014

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LINCOLNSHIRE AND NEWARK

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Have you cast your vote in this year’s Restaurant of the year Awards? find out more inside...

The Lifestyle Magazine for High Quality Homes

NOVEMBER 2014

The Lincolnshire Regiment Nicholson’s Burghley Horse Trials Hat-Trick CHRISTMAS gIfTS - PARTy DRESSES - RESTAuRANT Of THE yEAR

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ROB davis EdITor, PrIdE MAgAzInEs editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

LincolnshirePride LINCOLNSHIRE AND NEWARK

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The Lincolnshire Regiment Nicholson’s Burghley Horse Trials Hat-Trick CHRISTMAS GIFTS - PARTY DRESSES - RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

This month’s cover: This extraordinary image of two Lancasters - The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s Avro Lancaster and the Lancaster of Lincolnshire’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight - was captured by photographer James Biggadike. It’s available to purchase at www.airpowerart.co.uk as a 30x45cm canvas £83.33 or an unframed print 50cm x 76cm £109.

Sitting in a comfortable office, it’s impossible for me to imagine the conditions which those, 100 years ago, began to endure as they went off to war. Initially full of optimism and nationalism, their jingoism soon turned to terror as the raw spectacle of The Great War unfolded.

It’s precisely those brave souls which were on our minds this month as we met Derek Hocking, chairman of the Royal Anglian Lincolnshire regiment - formerly the Royal Lincolnshire Regiment. Derek is one of the dedicated few who are unwilling to forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and who we recognise in this edition.

Elsewhere, we remind ourselves of the contribution the Burghley Horse Trials makes to Stamford’s economy and we celebrate New Zealander Andrew Nicholson’s impressive hat-trick as he celebrates his third successive Burghley win.

Also in this edition, we recommend the best Christmas gifts from local independent retailers, we’ve party dresses for festive functions, and we’re still inviting nominations from readers for our Good Food Awards - so tell us about your favourite restaurant & bistro, and nominate a ‘food hero’ on page 22 to win complementary meals out in 2015.

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Have you cast your vote in this year’s Restaurant of the Year Awards? Find out more inside...

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NOVEMBER 2014

The Lincolnshire Regiment Nicholson’s Burghley Horse Trials Hat-Trick CHRISTMAS GIFTS - PARTY DRESSES - RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

With best wishes from the Lincolnshire Pride team Publisher: Julian Wilkinson. general Manager: Ian Bagley.

Executive Editor: rob davis. Features Editor: Ceri Jackson. graphic designer and Customer Care: Mandy Bray.

Accounts Manager: sue Bannister. sales Managers: zoie Wilkinson, Jayne Broughton. sales Executives: Liz King, Abigail Colley, Carissa Clay, Emily Brown, sami Millard, Lauren Chambers, Emma Barrett, Hayley scott, Amy Whiley. sales support: Emily rippin. distribution Manager: Paul dixon.

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Contents

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november 2014

Find out WHaT’s ON in Lincolnshire this month with an array of theatre, music and charity events.

Meet Derek Hocking and find out more about the batallions of World War One’s LiNcOLNsHiRe RegimeNT...

This month’s FOOd aNd dRiNk pages present suggestions of Boston’s Ball House and Newark’s Mint Leaf Restaurant.

Ensure your home looks great this season with our ideas for ON-TReNd FuRNisHiNgs, featuring advice from local interior designers.

In our HOmes secTiON, our featured house is the contemporary Cygnet House. We also visit Sandra Blaza’s Georgian garden.

It’s back, and it’s as ‘BuRgHLey’ as ever - we celebrate the hat-trick of Andrew Nicholson and Avebury at the four-star FEI Horse Trials.

Perfect OuTFiTs FOR cHRisTmas paRTies this month as we ask Lincoln’s Red Carpet Ready for occasionwear recommendations.

Get ready for cHRisTmas this month as we seek out recommendations for Christmas gifts from independent retailers.

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County News next generation of scientists see red with Brian Cox and friends The red Arrows, TV physicist Professor Brian Cox and Jason Bradbury of The gadget show encourage the next generation of scientists...

The event was designed to stimulate pupils’ interest in the so-called STEM subjects science, technology and maths.

practically apply science on a day to day basis to inspire the next generation of engineers, whilst former Lincolnshire resident and presenter of TV’s The Gadget Show Jason Bradbury said he was inspired to enter a career in science by The Red Arrows and The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, saying that the skill set gap in the UK’s jobs market can be filled by inspiring more children to pursue a career in engineering and science related fields.

Professor Brian Cox - pop star turned theoretical physicist and TV presenter - spoke of the importance of using those who

Haroon Raja of the Reds said; “Every time the Red Arrows display in the air they represent engineering excellence.”

Lincolnshire’s Red Arrows joined forces with a few of their scientific celebrities recently to encourage the next generation of scientists and engineers.

The RAF Scampton squadron completed their 50th season last year and held a special event for over 300 local schoolchildren who took part in practical workshops at the base.

Artist’s project aims to record a summer in the life of swineshead...

Boston artist Katie Smith aims to document a summer in the life of Swineshead, by crowd-sourcing amateur photographers to record snaps of the village’s community.

Katie has left disposable cameras with villages who must take nine shots, then pass the camera to a neighbour.

At least three different members of the community must use each camera, the images from which Katie will then use to create an exhibition entitled One Summer in Swineshead.

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spilsby explorer Franklin’s lost ships discovered in the Arctic Mystery of missing ship HMs Erebus or HMs Terror will be solved following archaeological diver...

spilsby explorer Sir John Franklin was lost to Beechy Island during his ill-fated 1845 mission to explore the Arctic.

Now, a new archaological dive hopes to determine the exact location of his shipwrecked craft and to determine whether the wreck is HMS Erebus or HMS Terror, which the crew abandoned off King William Island.

A team of expert divers are exploring the shallow waters around the remote Nunavut island where, in 1848, the ships became stuck in ice. The dive will see a camera put into the hull, and will recover artefacts from the ship. “It is bigger than finding the Titanic!” says Bill Noon, the Canadian coastguard leading the team.

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send your press releases and county news to: Editor via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Woodhall spa might once more be a spa town after a local developer has purchased the derelict building which once housed the baths.

Developer, GN Construction, has purchased the former spa baths on the town’s Coronation Road, and is in talks with Whewhey International, whose founder Tanya Wheway created the Champneys UK brand and also created Covent Garden’s Sanctuary spa.

derelict having last been used as an NHS clinic before being mothballed in 1983.

The Victorian building was created as a bathhouse following the discovery of a natural spring.

The developer even hopes to use the original spring water if and when the spa is granted planning permission.

If the project progresses, the spa could open as early as 2016.

A spokesperson from the project said they hope they can fulfil the dream.

The intention is to open a luxurious day spa in the building, which is currently

Free range farm redhill oinks to victory in food awards...

Image: JamieThompson.

Woodhall spa’s Victorian baths to enjoy the ‘luxury day spa’ treatment

A new vision for Lincoln’s Brayford Pool over five years Brayford Trust working with City Council to create a five year plan for water. new footbridges, cycle routes and moorings will enhance provision of leisure...

Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf will be subject to five years of development thanks to an agreement between the Brayford Trust and the City Council to improve facilities around the water.

gainsborough Redhill Farm’s Free Range Loin of Pork has been judged to be the number one speciality food in the region in the 2014 Great Taste Awards. The awards involve over 400 judges and thousands of hours of blind tasting with a three star-system of grading the equivalent of Michelin Stars for food producers. Of the 10,000 entries submitted this year, only 153 were awarded the ultimate three-star gold, of which Redhill was one.

The plans include changes to the marina with new moorings, as well as the replacement of the so-called swan jetty. The swans currently living on Brayford would be provided with several ‘islands’ with native plant species floating on plastic rafts anchored to the bottom of the pool. The root systems of the islands would also pull pollutants from the water resulting in a clearer pool.

In addition, two new footbridges will be created across the level crossing to reduce waiting time and improve access to the High Street. New moorings will improve the sight of the pool too, and it’s expected that with a five year business plan in place as part of the project, more businesses will be encouraged into the area as a result.

The lake was originally constructed as a result of earthworks completed by the Romans to widen the Witham.

The Brayford Trust was formed in 1969, which first cleared the pool, removing no fewer than 25 shipwrecks in the process.

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What’s On

pauL HOLLyWOOd

aT cHRisTmas

TV’s baking star Paul Hollywood returns with his successful live show. Having played to over 30,000 fans across the country with his first tour Get Your Bake on, Paul is back! Favourite recipes, from Cornish pasties to Bakewell tarts, Paul takes to the stage for an evening of baking, comedy and fun. Thursday 20th November, 8pm at Grimsby Auditorium. Tickets £32.40.

Start Christmas in style with a delightful and unforgettable festive trip down memory lane. Neil Sands and his cast of West End performers will have you singing along to all your festive favourites at the Guildhall Arts Centre in Grantham. A wonderful mix of songs, stunning costumes, festive fun - a truly unique atmosphere that will warm your heart and take you back to a time when Christmas truly was magical.

Thursday 20th November, 2pm. Tickets £11.

www.atgtickets.com 01472 311300

ROyaL pHiLHaRmONic ORcHesTRa

Top/Right: Join TV baking star Paul Hollywood returns with his successful live show, bringing an evening of baking, comedy and fun!

Top: Enjoy the biggest Food and Gift Fairs at the Lincolnshire Showground.

Above: The NYT perform their version of The Sound of Music this month.

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The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform their Film Music Gala on Thursday 13th November at 7.30pm at The Baths Hall. A concert for all the family, they will perform film music by famous composers and presented by special guest Tommy Pearson. Tickets from £16. www.bathshall.co.uk 0844 854 2776

www.guildhallartscentre.com 01476 406158

HaNdeL’s messiaH The ever popular seasonal favourite Handel’s Messiah will be performed by Lincoln Cathedral Choir in the nave of Lincoln Cathedral. 7.30pm on Saturday 22nd November. Tickets are from £10. www.lincolncathedral.com 01522 561644

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- WHAT’s on -

peRsuasiON

miRacLe ON 34TH sTReeT

Beautifully romantic, funny and poignant, Austen’s most personal novel is brought to the stage. 7.30pm, Saturday 22nd November at Riverhead Theatre in Louth. Tickets £10.

BOS Musical Theatre Group present this fantastically fun musical! Kris Kringle takes on the cynics among us in this musical adaptation of the popular holiday favourite.

A white-bearded gentleman claiming to be Santa Claus brings about a genuine Miracle on 34th Street. Eight shows at Blackfriars from Saturday 22nd November to Saturday 29th November. Tickets £14, £45 family.

www.louthplaygoers.com 01507 600350

THe NuTcRackeR Moscow State Ballet present The Nutcracker on Friday 21st November, 7.30pm at The Palace Theatre in Newark. It’s midnight, the clock strikes, something stirs in the darkness beyond - watch the story unfold in this magical festive tale. Tickets £24. www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk 01636 650000

sOuNd OF music Join the NYT as they present a wonderful version of this timeless classic. From Monday 24th to Thursday 27th at 7.30pm. Tickets £8. www.lincolndrillhall.com 01522 873894

www.blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk 01205 363108

FOOd aNd giFT FaiR One of the biggest and best Food and Gift fairs of the festive season, spanning two halls it is the perfect place to find gifts, with all sorts of goodies on offer. There will also be craft and cookery demonstrations to inspire.

Tickets £6, with free parking. Saturday 29th to Sunday 30th November, 10am to 4pm.

Top: Moscow State Ballet present The Nutcracker.

Above: The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra perform their Film Music Gala at The Baths Hall.

www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk 01522 522900

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Virtuo

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o so

- MusIC -

next month will see a number of performances by a very special Lincolnshire virtuoso. choral scholar cameron Richardson-eames graduated from Cambridge’s Trinity College this year and will return to the county for a series of festive events which he promises will revitalise your Christmas spirit...

From Lincolnshire to Trinity College, Cambridge. Musical scholar Cameron RichardsonEames from Tetney is just 21, and yet, having graduated with First Class Honours and a senior academic scholarship, he’s already in line to become one of the UK’s most gifted performers.

Next month, Cameron will bring The Choral Scholars of Trinity College Cambridge to Lincolnshire with a series of three concerts Grimsby and Louth.

It’s an incredible opportunity to see - and hear - Cameron’s choristers, selected from the choir that Gramophone magazine voted the fifth best in the world. Cameron has recorded seven albums with the choir, which have seen Grammy nominations, won a Gramophone award and has featured in the UK’s classical music charts.

The group has toured Canada twice, and has performed in the US and Germany. It has also performed live on BBC Radio 3 and its recordings have enjoyed airplay on Classic FM. Cameron’s musical career was nurtured at Caistor Grammar School, with his music teacher proving a real inspiration.

“My parents aren’t musical themselves - even though they’ve

been incredibly supportive - so my teacher, Frances Thompson was an incredible inspiration; she’s a fantastic musician.”

Whilst at Caistor Grammar School, Cameron had achieved a Grade Eight award for his talent at the piano by the age of 13 and subsequently took the equivalent of three bachelors degrees whilst studying towards his A-Levels, attending the Royal Academy of Music on London’s Marylebone Road.

During this time he also performed locally at numerous Grimsby music Festivals and, following his performance at the Wigmore Hall, was invited by Jaques Samuel Pianos to tour the Fazioli Piano Factory near Venice, as part of an 18th birthday present from the company.

“If a Yamaha or Steinway piano is the equivalent of a BMW or

Cameron will bring The Choral Scholars of Trinity College Cambridge to Lincolnshire with a series of concerts...

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- MusIC -

Mercedes, Fazioli is the Rolls Royce of pianos hand-built, the most expensive in the world.” says Cameron.

Even before completing his UCAS university entry form, Cameron had decided that he was destined for Cambridge, choosing the university on the basis of the choir.

Balancing his academic interests with his role as a solo singer, pianist and chorister in the choir was a challenge at the most pressured university in the world.

“My first impression of Trinity was stepping into the Great Court. It’s huge and it’s unbelievably beautiful.”

“It’s certainly not an easy life. Eventually you find like-minded individuals but many students are from privileged backgrounds - it’s not uncommon for students to have come from Eton or Harrow and to arrive with seven or eight A*s at A Level qualifications specifically.”

“It’s daunting, but you have to develop a strong character and hold your own.

The music degree is well-known as the most difficult in the world, and the academic pressures are compounded by the demands of the choir, too.”

The choir meets two weeks before term begins, and there are no prior rehearsals, just performances as a full choir of 33; it’s one of the largest college choirs in Oxford and Cambridge, with two organ scholars. Cameron’s duties during term-time with the choir included singing three services during the week in the College’s fifteenth-century chapel and at the College’s feasts and special occasions.

In 2013 Cameron founded a chamber choir known as The Choral Scholars of Trinity College Cambridge, a group of singers selected from the larger college choir. After the overwhelming success of their previous visit to Grimsby last year, he’s returning to the county this month with the Orpheus Male Voice Choir for a performance in October as Pride goes to press, and three further events in December.

On Friday 24th October Cameron will perform at Central Hall in Grimsby alongside the Orpheus Male Voice Choir, with a programme which includes some of the most challenging works in the standard piano repertoire, such as Liszt’s Dante Sonata, and Balakirev’s Islamey - rumoured 14

to be the most difficult piece ever written for the instrument - with respite in the form of serene works by Fauré, amongst others.

He will be joined by the Choral Scholars of Trinity College Cambridge on 11th December for a black tie dinner at the church of St Peter and St Paul in Tetney tickets are already on sale and are priced at £40.

A further performance takes place on Friday 12th December at Grimsby Minster with what promises to be a Christmas Spectacular, with choral flourishes and a ‘virtuosic’ performance of Jingle Bells, as well as liturgical works.

The same repertoire will be repeated at Louth’s St James’s Church on Saturday 13th, with each performance taking place from 7.30pm and tickets £10/£15.

Cameron and the choir will also visit Grimsby’s Marks and Spencer store to perform on Friday 12th December around lunchtime, raising Christmas cheer, and money for St Andrew’s Hospice.

Whilst Cameron’s performing career has taken him to the UK’s most prestigious concert halls and landmarks - London’s Wigmore Hall, St James’ Piccadilly, St Martin in the Fields, Trafalgar Square, Royal Festival Hall and Westminster Palace - home is still where the musican’s heart is.

Enjoying world-class musicianship right here in the county will doubtless melt the winter chill of anyone who appreciates virtuoso performances of some of the word’s finest music.

“A Cambridge music degree is known as the world’s most difficult.

This was compounded by the demands of the college’s choir, too...”

Above: Cameron performs on a hand-made Fazioli piano at leading international recital venue Wigmore Hall.

Top: The musician graduated from Trinity College Cambridge recently, with first class honours.

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Find Out More: Cameron will perform with the Orpheus Male Voice choir at Central Hall, Grimsby on 24th October.

With The Choral Scholars of Trinity College Cambridge, Cameron will also host a black tie dinner at St Peter & St Paul, Tetney, on Thursday 11th December; tickets ÂŁ40.

The group will perform on Friday 12th December at Grimsby Minster from 7.30 and Saturday 13th December at St James’s Church, Louth. The choir will also perform Evensong at Lincoln Cathedral from 3.45pm on Sunday 14th December, with free entry. For more information call 01472 210376 or 01507 354925 or email cscambridge@outlook.com

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- HIsTorY -

The Lincolnshire

Battalions As Lincolnshire prepares to remember its fallen this month, one Lincoln man will be paying special attention to ensuring his regiment is given the recognition it deserves for the sacrifice of over 8,000 young men to The great War. derek Hocking is Branch Chairman of the Lincolnshire Regiment...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

1685, and 200 miles away. The English Royalist and statesman Colonel John Granville was raising a new regiment to stave off the threat to King James II from the illegitimate son of Charles II; James Scott, the Duke of Monmouth.

The soldiers used flintlock muskets which had a range of just 200 yards, and required 24 different movements to load, resulting in an inability to fire more than a couple of rounds per minute.

Less than 250 years later, the regiment would have changed beyond recognition, as would warfare itself.

whereupon a restructuring of the army resulted in the creation of the Royal Anglian Regiment, into which the Lincolnshire Regiment was consolidated.

Today, the regiment endures as the second battalion of the Royal Anglians, nicknamed the Poachers, but all of the Lincolnshire regiments from World War 1 will be remembered by Derek Hocking, Lincoln’s regimental Chairman.

“The Great War is a terrible misnomer given that the war proved longer lasting and bloodier than any conflict before it...”

Instead, weapons would now fire at a rate of 15 rounds per minute, and 1,500 yards. Tanks like those of Lincoln’s William Foster made their way onto the battlefield, and for the first time, aircraft were used in combat.

The Great War is a terrible misnomer given that the war proved longer lasting and bloodier than any conflict before it. The regiment endured until the late 1950s,

Derek will this month lay two wreaths on Lincoln’s High Street - one for the veterans of Palestine, and one for the regiment, bearing both the Sphynx cap badge and the Anglian regiment’s star and castle badge.

Afterwards, he will venture to the regiment’s barracks to join colleagues in commemorating the centenary of the Great War with colleagues from across Lincolnshire.

“I left school in 1977 and went straight into the army at 16.” says Derek.

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- HIsTorY -

“The Lincolnshire regiment was notable for many things during the course of the war, with no fewer than ten members of the regiment awarded Britain’s highest military honour.” says Derek.

“I saw service in Berlin from 1978 to 1980, then in Londonderry until 1982.”

The regiment was initially known as the Earl of Bath’s Regiment of Foot, but soon became The 10th Foot, then The 10th (North Lincolnshire) Regiment of Foot.

Its most famous battle in 1846 was in the Sikh Wars, where it earned its most famous battle honour at Sobraon - which would later go on to give the regiment’s Lincoln barracks its name.

Derek describes as incredibly strong the bond between members of a particular regiment, and nowhere was the bond felt stronger than in the trenches during the First World War. Prior to 1914 there were just five battalions; the 1st Regular Battalion and the 2nd Regular Battalion, as well as the 3rd (Special

Reserve Battalion), and the 4th and 5th (Territorial) battalions; the equivalent of today’s Territorial Army.

The 1st was based in Portsmouth during the outbreak of the war in preparation for fighting, and landed at Le Havre in August 1914. The 1st saw action in the Battle of Mons as well as Ypres and The Somme.

By 1918 the group was in Berlaimont, in what is now the Nord Pas-de-Calais.

The 2nd were based in Bermuda when war broke out and saw much of their action in the Somme, moving to Flanders and the final advance at Picardy.

The 1st weren’t demobilised until May 1919, by which time they had seen massive losses and the creation of no fewer than 16 battalions and the loss of 8,000 Lincolnshire men.

Battalions other than infantry regiments included service and labour regiments like the 7th and 12th - otherwise known as Kitchener’s armies - as well as home service battalions like the 2nd Home Service garrison.

“The Lincolnshire regiment was notable for many things during the course of the war, with no fewer than ten members of the regiment awarded Britain’s highest military honour.” says Derek.

The regiment also played a large part in the battle of the Somme with eight battalions fighting in the battle. A further, more dubious honour, was the regiment being the first battalion ever to suffer loss of life due to friendly fire.

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Returning in 1919 and reeling from the losses the regiment had endured, the Lincolnshire Regiment nevertheless went on to fight at Dunkirk in 1940, Burma in 1943 and at the Normandy Landings in 1945 to name a few.

The regiment was named the ‘Royal’ Lincolnshire regiment in March 1946 having earned the King’s gratitude, and saw further service in Palestine, and Goslar, in West Germany, as part of the British Shield,

The regiment was named the ‘Royal’ Lincolnshire regiment in March 1946 having earned the King’s gratitude...

confronting the Eastern Block in the Cold War. 1960 saw the Royal Lincolnshire Regiment amalgamated, with the Northamptonshire 4th/6th TA battalions carrying on the name.

With its amalgamation into the Royal Anglian regiment in 1969, only the Poachers remains as part of 2nd Battalion of The Royal Anglian Regiment. The Poachers have seen service in Iraq, Afghanistan, Northern Island, and Kuwait, meaning that, albeit in a new incarnation, the spirit of the Lincolnshire’s is still serving the country.

Above: NCO’s School of instruction 3rd Mounted Brigade c.1917.

Left: 4th Battalion of the Lincolnshire Regiment in 1914.

For Derek and all those who saw service in the Lincolnshires, this month will be a time to reflect, commemorate and above all, offer thanks to the 8,000 Lincolnshire men who paid the ultimate price for defending king and country 100 years ago.

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Some of Last Year’s Winners: Our awards present three winners and seven finalists within each of our three categories - Restaurant of the Year, Coffee Shop/Bistro of the Year and Food Hero.

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Lincolnshire’s many fine dining restaurants, hotels and gastropubs go to great efforts to satisfy their diners in an increasingly demanding market. That’s why, each year, we seek to identify and reward the county’s best restaurants... with a little help from our readers!

Once again we’re asking you to vote for your favourite restaurant, your favourite coffee shop or bistro, and your Lincolnshire ‘food hero’ nominations.

In return, we’ve partnered with six local restaurants to offer you a prize of ‘on the house’ meals throughout 2015.

“It’s really important to us that our Restaurant of the Year competition truly represents the good taste of our readers.” says Lincolnshire Pride’s Editor, Rob Davis.

“We don’t want advertising to have a bearing on who we or our readers vote for; we want our readers to be able to vote for whoever they choose.”

“Over the page, you’ll find a form asking you to submit your votes for each of our three categories.”

“Votes will be calculated and we’ll reveal the three winners in each of our three categories in our January edition.”

“We’ll then pick one reader at random to be the recipient of our prize; meals out in 2015 at some of our partner restaurants. Last year’s winner was Rachel Barrett of Thorpe on the Hill.”

In our Restaurant of the Year category we’re looking to name three winners and seven runners-up, which we can recommend as Lincolnshire’s most popular restaurants. These will not necessarily be the most expensive restaurants in the county, they may be good quality pub restaurants too, but equally they could be fine dining establishments offering exceptional food and service. Customer satisfaction and an enjoyable overall dining experience are more important than formality.

In our Bistro or Coffee Shop of the Year category, we’re looking for a venue that provides good lunchtime dining, a traditional tearoom experience or a

great place for ladies who lunch; somewhere to enjoy more relaxed dining during the daytime.

Finally, we’re also asking you to nominate a Food Hero. This could be a farmer, food producer, the owner of a quality deli or a well-known county chef, who acts as a good ambassador for the county’s food culture or champions local ingredients to put the county of Lincolnshire on the map in terms of its food and drink.

Win complimentary meals out in 2015, and

Vote for Your Favourite Local Restaurants...

If you value local food and talent in your local gastropub or fine dining restaurant, now is the time to show your appreciation.

We’re asking readers to vote for your favourite restaurants, and in return, you could win meals out in 2015 courtesy of our partner restaurants. our awards are completely free of advertising bias and are voted for entirely by our readers...

Images: Rob Davis.

“One of my favourite jobs each year is to record the votes as they’re coming in.” says Rob. “Only by seeking the opinions of our readers can we produce a list of the county’s most popular restaurants taken from hundreds of votes, from readers who are unbiased, who are based right across the county, and who really value Lincolnshire’s best places to eat.”

>> Turn over to vote for your favourite restaurant...

We’ll automatically enter you into our prize draw to win meals out at our partner restaurants in 2015...

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Win complimentary meals out in 2015...

We’ve partnered with these six restaurants across the county to offer a lucky reader who casts their vote in our awards complimentary dining throughout 2015...

The White Hart, Lincoln is a truly cosmopolitan restaurant in the heart of Lincoln with its Grille dining room and Room cocktail bar both providing a great place for winter food and drink.

famous Dambusters squadron, but its current dining provision is thoroughly modern with beautifully presented, flavoursome dishes delivered courtesy of head chef Philip Long.

The chequers at gedney dyke offers fine dining in a stylish environment with varied menus, set lunchtime dining plus both à la carte dining and a tasting menu during evening service.

The sebastopol inn at minting provides a traditional country pub restaurant feel, but with food that reflects a much higher standard than you’d expect from a rural pub restaurant.

The Lincoln Hotel’s Green Room is one of the city’s most innovative restaurants with stylish presentation and lots of flair.

The petwood Hotel, Woodhall spa, is the former home of Lincolnshire’s

Toft House near Bourne offers daytime and evening dining in a pretty position overlooking the adjacent golf course.

With a pretty garden too, it’s definitely one for spring dining.

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We’ll pick one voter at random to win complimentary meals in 2015. If one of your nominations wins, we may want to quiz you on why you voted for them!

vote for your favourite restaurant, and a favourite bistro or coffee shop below. We’d also like you to nominate a ‘Food Hero’ — perhaps a butcher, baker, food producer, chef or similar.

please provide your name, address, and telephone number (we will need to contact you if you’re our lucky winner!).

restaurant of the Year (name & location):

Address: ..................................................

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alternatively, you can vote on our website by visiting

...............................................................

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www.pridemagazines.co.uk/vote

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Bistro/Coffee shop of the Year:................

...............................................................

............................................................... ...............................................................

name:.....................................................

...............................................................

Postcode: ................................................

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Food Hero of the Year (name, location of person and reason for your nomination): ...............................................................

...............................................................

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Telephone: ..............................................

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send your entry to: Lincolnshire pride Restaurant of the year awards 2014, pride magazines, elm grange studios, east Heckington, Boston, Lincolnshire pe20 3QF.

closing date for entries: monday 3rd November 2014.

Terms and conditions: one entry per household.

Photocopies/multiple will not be accepted.

Competition is available to anyone in the county or surrounding area. You must not be personally or professionally allied with nominations. Votes received for each venue will be counted up to determine eventual three winners for each category and seven runners-up. The Editor’s decision as to our competition winners is final and further terms and conditions may apply.

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Welcome to Lincolnshire Pride Magazine’s food awards, in which we want our readers to nominate their favourite restaurant, bistro/coffee shop and the county’s ‘Food Hero.’ This entry form will ensure your vote is counted, and in return, we’ll pick one reader at random to win meals out at the above restaurants in 2015.

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The

Brownlow Arms • À La Carte Dining • 17th Century Coaching Inn • Seven En Suite Rooms

“We’re the 2015 winners of e Good Pub Guide’s Lincolnshire Dining Pub of the Year Award...!”

ENJOY AWARD-WINNING DINING COURTESY OF RUARAIDH BEALBY AND LIZZY GOODWIN! HOUGH ON THE HILL, GRANTHAM ROAD NEAR GRANTHAM, LINCOLNSHIRE NG32 2AZ 01400 250 234 • armsinn@yahoo.co.uk Current menus online now at www.thebrownlowarms.co.uk.

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THE BALL HOUSE Enjoy high quality à la carte dining or our delicious pub favourites.

Book now and try Boston’s newest restaurant.

Wainfleet Road, Boston PE21 9RL

01205 364478

www.theballhouseboston.co.uk

STARTERS Veloute of celeriac and apple cider, walnut, blue cheese and crouton.

Terrine of confit duck, salt baked beetroot, orange and festive Cumberland sauce.

Gratin of Cornish cock crab with aged parmesan and chive.

MAINS Roast black feather turkey, traditionally garnished.

Roast fillet of salmon, buttered kale, roasted Jerusalem artichokes, salsify and parsley.

Butternut squash & feta cheese bake, toasted pumpkin seeds and dried cherry tomatoes.

DESSERTS Baked apple tarte tatin, clove ice cream.

Christmas pudding, brandy crème anglaise.

Selection of three fine cheeses, homemade biscuits and chutney.

2 COURSES £18.50 OR 3 COURSES £22.50 Available Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon – 2.30pm & 6pm – 9pm

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- Food -

Rustic

Quality The Ball House in Boston has undergone a dramatic transformation, bringing ‘gastropub’ style high quality dining to a rustic setting Words: Rob Davis. celebrate a new arrival: Boston has a newly relaunched - and extremely high quality - pub restaurant, offering what the town has lacked for too long; traditional English cuisine with à la carte quality in a rustic setting.

The Ball House, on the town’s Wainfleet Road, re-opened under its new management earlier this year. It has quickly gained a good reputation in the town due, perhaps, to the combination of good quality ‘gastropub’ food and exceptional service.

We met Amy Bowler, who leads the restaurant’s front of house team with her parents Carole and David, whilst her partner, Lee Brierley, works behind the scenes in the kitchen, alongside the kitchen team. It is the epitome of a family business with everyone getting involved in the day-today running.

Left: Slow cooked shoulder of lamb with Provençal green beans, pommes anna and rosemary gravy served with seasonal vegetables.

The obvious pleasure the team takes from running the restaurant is directly reflected in the dining experience - both in terms of the food and the front of house experience, as we discovered during our visit.

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Left: Chicken ballotine.

Below: Amy Bowler with partner and head chef Lee Brierley.

Bottom: Assiette of duck seared breast, confit leg and breaded duck cake.

Options include a roast, served with all the trimmings, fish & chips and during our visit, cottage pie and risotto options. The set menu also supplements an à la carte lunch menu with 11 options plus a choice of sandwiches, panini and jacket potatoes.

“Inside, the rustic feel is mitigated by a few concessions to luxury, like newly introduced white table linen, fresh damask wallpaper and a sage colour scheme...”

To our mind The Ball House is one of the best value restaurants for lunchtime dining in the area, but with our visit coinciding with the launch a new menu of Autumn dishes, we’re equally happy to recommend evening dining.

The venue is traditionally Lincolnshire on the outside, flanking the A52 from Boston to Skegness and surrounded by fields growing the vegetables that the restaurant uses in many of its dishes.

Inside, the rustic feel is mitigated by a few concessions to luxury, like newly introduced white table linens and damask wallpaper, introduced as part of a makeover with a fresh sage colour scheme. The tasteful looking dining room seats around 40 and there’s a second dining room towards the rear of the building that’s already popular for private dining and functions.

Dining during lunchtime service takes place from 12noon to 2.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday, with slightly longer hours and a dedicated menu on Sunday. There are two menus during the week, including a set menu, offering stunning value with one, two or three courses priced at just £6.95, £8.95 and £11.95 respectively, with coffee and tea included and a choice of four starters, four mains and four desserts.

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With seven starters, 10 main courses and nine dessert options, there’s sufficient choice to satisfy anyone’s dining preference, but the addition of 10 further ‘Everyone’s Favourites’ gastropub-oriented dishes provide a choice between formal à la carte dining, or more rustic options.

Main course options include the slow cooked shoulder of lamb featured on our opening spread and served with pommes Anna. Opposite, we’ve pictured the ballotine of chicken option, which is stuffed with mozzarella and sun blushed tomatoes wrapped in Parma ham. At £13.50 each, the main courses are, we think, priced about right for the quality of dining, and provide generous portions with neat presentation.

Lincolnshire diners appreciate local produce and The Ball House’s dishes employ only the best local suppliers, like Bycroft of Boston for its steaks, Boston Sausage for pork and M&J Seafood which provides daily deliveries of fresh fish from Grimsby Docks.

Local veg arrives via NHP, whilst Bateman’s Brewery, just 30 minutes up the A52 in Wainfleet, provides local ale.

Even the Favourites have plenty of time, effort and local ingredients invested in them,

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- Food -

“As autumn turns into winter and the temperature falls, The Ball House’s new menus will appeal to anyone who enjoys quality food...”

Having found the perfect venue in The Ball House, they’ve done just that, and Amy believes it’s just what Boston needs.

with examples including a ‘posh’ burger, sausage & mash, fish & chips, plus a pie of the day option.

Desserts are all homemade and include the ubiquitous warm chocolate brownie and sticky toffee puddings, plus a cappuccino mille feuille, a homemade lemon posset with raspberry coulis and a seasonal crumble.

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“We wanted a place of our own and had a good idea of what we wanted to offer.” she says. “We wanted to provide something between ‘posh pub’ and fine dining, but with a really good family welcome.”

“Boston, we felt, needed a good quality English pub restaurant, and the feedback we’ve received so far seems to confirm that.

Both our à la carte and Favourites have been equally popular, and we’ve had some really lovely comments about the service we offer.”

To accompany, you can also enjoy one of eight white wines, eight red wines, a brace of rosé options or a few sparkling wines too.

As autumn turns into winter and the temperature falls, The Ball House’s new menus will bring much comfort this month to anyone who appreciates chefcraft.

Carole and David are from West Sussex, but have been living in Sleaford for over 14 years. When Amy met Lee whilst working in Stamford, the family quickly realised that they could all come together to create a dining experience that could offer quality of food and front of house warmth in equal measure.

Whether you’re looking for à la carte dining or a good value lunchtime option, we’re happy to recommend Boston’s newest quality pub restaurant. With a committed family determined to keep the quality high and the welcome warm, it’s the perfect way to experience the best local ingredients, skilfully used, in a great dining environment.

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Sample Menu sTArTErs scallops

£6.50

Seared scallops with sweet potato purée, pulled pork and hickory smoked glaze.

Chicken Liver Pâté

£4.50

Home made chicken live pâté with caramelised red onion chutney and granary toast.

Field Mushroom

£5.50

Baked field mushroom topped with Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and smoked bacon, finished with truffle oil.

MAIns ribeye steak

£16.50

8oz mature ribeye steak with hand-cut chips, confit plum tomatoes, mushroom and rustic onion rings.

Trio of duck

£13.95

Seared duck breast, confit leg and breaded duck cake served with sweet potato fondant and redcurrant gravy.

Pork Belly

£13.50

Slow roasted pork belly with sautéed wild mushrooms, sable potatoes and Lincolnshire blue cheese sauce and seasonal vegetables.

Chicken

£12.95

Ballotine of chicken stuffed with Mozzarella and sun-blushed tomatoes wrapped in Parma ham with red pesto cream sauce and crushed potatoes.

PuddIng Lemon Posset

£5.50

Home made lemon posset with citrus shortbread and raspberry coulis.

Mixed Berry Pudding

£5.95

Mixed berry pudding with Chantilly cream.

Cheese

£6.95

A selection of cheeses and crackers served with red onion chutney, grapes and celery.

Find out More: The Ball House, Wainfleet Road, Fishtoft, Boston, Lincolnshire pe21 9RL Tel: 01205 364 478 www.theballhouseboston.co.uk 35

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- Food -

A Panacea of

Pan-Asian

Cuisine Warm up your winter with a pan-asian treat this month and enjoy high quality dining that’s deliciously different from the incoming torrent of tedious turkey tables.

We meet Mohammed Parvez and family to sample a panacea of Bangladeshi cuisine at newark’s mint Leaf Words & Photos: Rob Davis a little bird told us recently that with Christmas just around the corner, it might be a good idea to forgo recommending turkey dinners in traditional restaurants, in favour of something deliciously different. Come to think of it, it wasn’t a little bird, it was a large and suspiciously oven-ready looking bird not dissimilar in shape to a turkey. Nevertheless, we accepted his recommendation to dine at Newark’s Mint Leaf restaurant... a place with no turkey on the menu whatsoever, somewhat unusually for this time of year.

Left: Our Lamb Shehzani comprised seasoned lamb chops, char-grilled and garnished with fried shallots, peppers and dill.

The restaurant’s pleasant appearance belies a somewhat inauspicious previous life as a roadside restaurant run by a multinational firm whose chef is reputed to be on the small size.

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Left: The restaurant is modern and striking in design - it’s hard to believe it’s a requisitioned and repurposed roadside restaurant.

Below: Gulab Jamuns - a delicious dough-ey dessert.

Bottom: Pilau rice and Bombay potato side dishes..

The kind of food that Mohammed and the team serves can’t be rushed.

It’s time-consuming, from the need to enable meat to marinate slowly, to the necessity of dedicated chefs for the specialised preparation of curries and tandooris, for example.

“Mohammed and the team describe their cuisine as pan-Asian fusion food, with a bias towards dishes of Bangladeshi and Tamil provenance...”

With three chefs in the kitchen, there’s plenty of time and attention lavished on each dish.

The Mint Leaf isn’t a typically Anglicised Indian restaurant, but rather a quality venue offering 13 signature dishes in addition to tandoori platters, 12 classic dishes, six lamb, nine poultry, six fish and eight vegetable based dishes, in addition to six Birianis and no fewer than 18 side orders and 10 rice and bread sides. Food comes from a menu served seven days a week both during lunchtime and evening service.

Fortunately, it’s been given a rebirth, and now has the best of both worlds; its location (just a minute or so from the A46/A17/A1 roundabout at Newark, close to Newark itself, and accessible from Lincoln, Grantham and Stamford) and being owned and run privately by a family which really cares about the food leaving its kitchen.

The Parvez family are from Bangladesh originally but Mohammed and son Anwar and have always lived in the UK, working in the restaurant trade in Oxford before moving to the area three and a half years ago. The family took over the restaurant from its previous owner and whilst it was already privately owned, they felt that it could be improved.

With 90 covers and a non-table turning policy, Mohammed and the team describe their cuisine as pan-Asian fusion food, with a bias towards dishes of Bangladeshi and Tamil provenance and a range of Tandoori, Biriani and house specials.

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Our recommendation would be to nudge diners in the direction of the house specials, from a pan fried sea bass dish with lightly spiced potatoes and mango & pineapple salad, to sirloin of beef seasoned with thyme and oregano, or the Zaffran dish based on classic duck à la orange.

Being a very conservative diner, I’m slightly disinclined to spicy food, but even I found the very lightly spiced and extremely flavoursome lamb shehzani dish, featured on our opening spread, to be beautifully cooked, delicious and tender.

“We’re really keen that everyone enjoys the dining experience.” says Mohammed.

“Good food takes time, and everything we produce is cooked freshly to order, so we’re happy for diners to seek our recommendations and to tweak dishes according to a diner’s individual tastes.”

“If someone wants a dish to be milder or warmer, for example, we’re always delighted to accommodate that.”

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- Food -

“Putting lots of work and skill into our dishes makes for an experience a customer can savour, and take their time over.”

“Effort is what makes the difference.” says Mohammed. “We’re not just acting as an ambassador for our own food but for our country’s best dishes too, so we feel a great responsibility.”

The restaurant’s three daytime buffets and its Sunday buffets are popular - again cooked freshly to order rather than sitting in a servery. With their unique dishes, Mohammed and his front of house team are just as keen to introduce diners to a range of South Indian food and ensure they enjoy unique and compelling dishes you won’t find in any other restaurant.

Local suppliers such as Grimsby’s M&J Seafood, and several local butchers plus specialist suppliers a little further afield all ensure that everything a diner enjoys is prepared in-house with only the best expertise.

To accompany, a selection of 13 bins of wine are reasonably priced, whilst desserts at the venue are home made too.

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“We’re very much oriented towards quality rather than quantity or speed of preparation, and towards subtle seasoning over strong spices. The feedback we receive as a result is wonderful.”

“Even if you’re not an adventurous diner, we’re absolutely certain that we can prepare something you’ll really enjoy.”

With unsurpassed front of house service and the most exquisitely cooked Bangladeshiinspired cuisine - from beautifully flavoured dishes to side orders - Newark’s Mint Leaf provides a dining experience that’s highly desirable.

It seems, then, that our little bird was quite correct. This month, give the turkey a miss and take his recommendation instead.

Opt for a delicious alternative to English dining in the form of pan-Asian fusion food from one of the area’s most skilful and talented restaurants instead.

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Sample Menu sTArTErs Mint Leaf Mixed Platter £10.95 Comprising of maas malai, lamb chops, hara murgh tikka and Delhi drumsticks.

Serves two. royal seafood Platter Comprising of salmon, squid, mussels and jhinga satay. Serves two.

£13.95

signature dishes Jhinga Massala £17.95 Whole King prawns, cooked with fresh garlic and ginger, in an exquisite blend of spices garnished with sliced red pepper.

Bombay Flame £17.95 King prawns with a very hot Naga chilli found all over the Indian sub continent. In a sauce containing spring onions, fresh herbs & spices.

Lamb zaffran £14.95 Rack of lamb seasoned with aromatic spices, cooked in a rich medium spiced mint based sauce. Served with baby potato and fine beans. sirloin of Beef £14.95 Seasoned with thyme and oregano with a hint of mustard, grilled served with fine beans and baby potatoes in a massala sauce.

Banquet Meals gourmet Banquet £19.95/person Papadoms and chutney tray, Mint Leaf mixed platter followed by chicken tikka badamai and lamb bhuna with side dishes of sag paneer, Bombay aloo, pilau rice and naan bread.

mint Leaf pan asian cuisine, a46 Lincoln Road, Newark Nottinghamshire Ng24 2Ny Tel: 01636 646 994 Web: www.mintleafuk.co.uk Mon to Sat Lunch Monday to Thursday Friday & Saturday Sunday

12noon till 2.30pm 5.30pm till 10.30pm 5.30pm till 11.00pm 12noon till 10.30pm 43

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IS YOUR LANDLORD A PROBLEM? After recent research by the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) it transpires that two thirds of tenants don’t consider whether their letting agent or landlord ticks all the boxes in terms of being suitable to handle money or manage their ongoing tenancy. The study revealed that tenants said that it didn’t even cross their minds to check! Alarmingly, 1 in 10 wrongly assumed that all letting agents and landlords are licensed and that they therefore came up to all of the recommended standards for a landlord or agent in terms of monetary and operational standards.

This lack of knowledge on a tenant’s part may be part one of the reason for problems arising during a tenancy. 45% of tenants reported that they had had no problems with their landlord and letting agent over the last 5 years, however, 55% of the tenant population have experienced at least one problem. The most common issue affecting nearly a third of tenants was the amount of time it had taken to fix problems such as boilers, heating and electricity issues. Once a problem was reported, statistics show that tenants had to wait 36 days, on average, for the issue to be resolved; unfortunately 1 in 7 problems were never resolved. The next most common problem was that of landlords not replacing old items such as kitchen cupboards and worn carpets. Tenants reported that they felt that their complaints fell on deaf ears.

As rent levels continue to increase and renting becomes a lifestyle choice rather than a necessity, the old adage of “our home is our castle” should not be any different for a tenant to a homeowner. With the well-established rules and regulations relating to gas and electrical safety, it’s arguable that many rental homes are in fact safer than privately owned properties. In 25 years of working in the industry, I’ve seen a huge shift in the standard of properties and the professionalism of landlords who, historically, would only carry out the bare minimum of maintenance to their rental properties. Now we deal with professional landlords who take pride in their investments and accept their responsibilities for the properties they provide to the sector.

I believe that tenants have a responsibility to themselves and their families to check out landlords and agents before committing to a tenancy. On 1st October 2014 new legislation commences when all agents must belong to one of 3 Government approved Redress Schemes. After this date, agents not fully compliant can be and should be penalised. The scheme will also assist any landlords who are not happy with the service given by their agent. Sadly, private landlords won’t fall under this legislation and tenants should be very wary.

Whether you are a tenant or landlord looking for peace of mind, visit our web site www.helettings.co.uk (r or pop into our offices for an informal chat. H E Lettings; going the extra mile!

For more details contact Jill Elkington, Partner at: H E Lettings 1 oakwood road doddington road Lincoln Ln6 3LH 46

Telephone: 01522 698 899 Fax: 01522 698 900 Email: info@helettings.co.uk www.helettings.co.uk

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www.mooresestatagents.com/countryandequestrian

W NE

W NE

PARVA LODGE, LANGHAM

Guide Price £1,700,000

Parva Lodge is a character yet modern house enjoying south facing aspects over its own superb landscaped gardens with mown tree lined avenue, approx. 16 acres of paddock land divided into three fields, with stable yard comprising of five stables, large tack room with hot water, wash box and large feed store. With a grand reception dining hall, formal drawing room, snug, hand built breakfast kitchen, large utility and boot room and home office. Vaulted master suite with dressing room and en-suite, two further guest bedrooms with en-suite and a further double bedroom and shower room adjacent.

Offers in the region of £1,399,995

Luxurious manor house style home situated on the edge of a village with landscaped grounds of approx. 4 acres (plus another approx. 30 acres available to rent). Exquisitely appointed with practical yet lavish layout and fittings to include high ceilings to reception rooms. With impressive entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, family snug leading through to hand built kitchen with Aga, opening out to palatial sun room orangery with Spa off.

Utility & boot room connected to an area which can be used for home office or annex leading out on to a court yard of stables plus barns and multiple garaging. Walks around its own private lakes all conveniently situated near the luxury Spa of Stapleford Park and convenient for the A1 and main line trains at Grantham.

CE I R WP

W E N

THE GRANGE, LANGHAM

RUSTIC HOUSE FARM, FREEBY

NE

Offers in Excess Of £1,000,000

An attractive character property situated centrally to the village with south facing stone walled gardens and a separate two bedroom cottage. There is a large driveway with a courtyard, off of which is the detached two bedroom stone cottage, triple bay garaging, workshop, six stables and a good sized barn. There is a small paddock area to the rear and a further five acres situated just outside of the village which is available to purchase by separate negotiation. The main residents comprises of: sitting room, dining room, farmhouse kitchen, study / snug, large utility / boot room and downstairs cloakroom. To the first floor are three double bedrooms, master with en-suite plus a family bathroom. To the second floor are two further bedrooms.

GRIFFIN HOUSE, BURLEY ON THE HILL

Offers in Excess Of £995,000

Griffin House is an outstanding five bedroom family home located in a beautiful parkland setting. The property forms part of a Grade I Listed country house, and enjoys views over the Rutland countryside. The house has been sympathetically refurbished and still boasts many of its original features, such as vaulted ceilings and columns which together with the expansive drawing room and traditional walled garden provide an attractive and delightful family home. In the exclusive setting of Burley House, Griffin House dates in part back to the 16th Century and has use of the grounds and ball room to the main house.

OAKHAM 36 High Street, Oakham Rutland LE15 6AL

UPPINGHAM 2 Orange Street, Uppingham Rutland LE15 9SQ

STAMFORD 2 St Johns Street, Stamford Lincolnshire PE9 2DB

MELTON 18 Nottingham Street, Melton Mowbray LE13 1NW

LONDON 40 St James's Place, London SW1A 1NS

Tel: 01572 757979

Tel: 01572 821935

Tel: 01780 484555

Tel: 01664 491610

Tel: 0207 8390888

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- HoMEs -

The Reclaimed

Family Home Is the Haddington family home of david newall and family a new build... or a period building? Actually, it’s new, but the extensive use of reclaimed materials have given it a graceful, aged look. Inside, discreetly employed technology has ensured it’s efficient to run too. Join us as we look at a house that has exceptional eco-friendly credentials...

Words: Rob Davis 49

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- HoMEs -

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an estate agent’s cliché is that the three determinants of a good property are location, location, location. David and Nichola Newell certainly believe so, which is why, when they came across their two and a half acre Haddington plot, they were to keen to create their new home on the site of an existing building.

David Newell has lived in Lincoln his whole life, founding in 1991 a successful construction, plumbing and heating company. Today the company works to restore old buildings, and works quite closely with a number of universities, for instance for student accommodation.

When he came to create a home for his family - Nicola, and their two children Sebastian and Tobin - the family wanted a property with character, one which would suit their conservation village, and provide ample space. The property offers over

Above: The kitchen has an informal dining room area as well as a sitting room.

Main: The principal sitting room has an open fire and French doors opening onto the garden.

“The property offers over 7,000sq ft of living space, over three floors, with five reception rooms and six bedrooms...”

7,000sq ft of living space, and is arranged over three floors, with no fewer than five reception rooms and six bedrooms.

The property is situated in the village of Haddington, just a few minutes drive from Lincoln, and is accessed by powered gates.

Given the property’s established grounds and aged appearance, it’s hard to discern the age of the property.

In fact, work began in 2008 and Haddington Grange was completed a year later. Created using bricks reclaimed from a series of old buildings in Salford, and topped with reclaimed slate from Westwick Gardens in London, the house has a lovely established look, with exposed brickwork in the kitchen and - again, reclaimed flagstones.

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- homes -

A ground floor comprises a large reception room, cinema room packed to the rafters with technology, plus a snug and dining room, as well as a large living kitchen which forms the heart of the house.

With bespoke timber cabinetry, created by Grantham’s Estu and hand-painted in cream, the kitchen features black granite surfaces, a range cooker, appliances from premium German manufacturers such as Bosch and a boiling water tap.

“We’ve created a dining area and a little living room area in the kitchen, and it really has become the centre of our home.” says David. “We spend all of our time in here and hardly use some other rooms in the house, but as a family we really do value having a formal sitting room with just an open fire and no television, it somehow feels more sociable.”

Above: The children’s sitting room is situated in the former swimming pool house.

Main: The farmhouse kitchen discreetly employs technology from premium German manufacturers.

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“We’ve created a dining area and a little living room area in the kitchen, and it really has become the centre of our home.”

The property also has an additional sitting room which used to contain the property’s swimming pool, seldom used, its removal facilitated a 40 foot room that’s perfect as a casual sitting room for teenagers whilst mum and dad enjoy the snug.

Upstairs the house has a master suite with en suite and dressing room, plus a large balcony overlooking the grounds. Four further bedrooms with en suite and two sharing a ‘Jack & Jill’ bathroom create a wealth of space whilst upstairs is a further bedroom and en suite with a large family room or storage.

The teenagers’ sitting room joins the main house to a separate annexe, as equally well-appointed as the main house and with two bedrooms plus its own reception room,

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- HoMEs -

the cottage provides additional living space for the next owner’s parents or for older children.

All through the house Nichola has used a palette of neutral colours to create the illusion of a period property, designing and commissioning a local cabinet maker to create key pieces of furniture for the house, and sourcing others from local antiques fairs.

In addition to utilising reclaimed materials and restored furniture, the family have utilised the latest ground source heat pump to ensure they don’t use any fossil fuels to heat their home. So, despite its size, Haddington Grange is also extremely efficient to run.

Outside, the grounds are neatly laid to lawn with a large loggia adjacent to the sitting room and living kitchen.

Above: The property is situated in two and a half acres of grounds.

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Breaking up the formal borders and mature plantings is a large tree house designed by Sebastian and created by David and his joiner, with two storeys and a 50ft zip-wire slide for children to enjoy.

“The property offers plenty of accommodation, but in a way, that’s why we’ve made the decision to leave.” says David. “The living kitchen works so well that we find ourselves spending all of our time in it. Sebastian will soon be off to university, so we’re seeking a new project and will be building another property.”

“We’ve already found a plot we like, and will be sad to leave Haddington Grange, but creating our own home has been such fun.”

Providing such a lot of family oriented accommodation.

Haddington’s next custodians will benefit from the creation of a property that’s spacious, modern and perfect for those with children, as well as being efficient and environmentally friendly, too.

Haddington grange Location: Haddington, near Lincoln.

Style: Superb modern new-built home arranged over three floors.

Receptions: Five, currently arranged as drawing room, cinema room, snug, dining room and living kitchen.

Beds: Six, one with three en suites plus ‘Jack & Jill’ en suite.

Other Features: Annexe with two bedrooms adjoining main house.

Guide Price: £1.25m

Find out More: Estate Agency: Savills, Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE Telephone: 01522 508900.

Website: www.savills.co.uk.

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Unsurpassed Quality, Affordable Craftsmanship Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms - full project management and free quotations

Peter Jackson Cabinet Makers Ltd Devereux Way, Horncastle LN9 6AU

Tel: 01507 527113 W: www.peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk E: info@peterjacksoncabinetmakers.co.uk

Peter_jacksonCM

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- HoMEs -

1.

3.

2.

Unique & Unusual Ideas

For Your Home

4.

Elizabeth & stevens specialises in providing unique, unusual products, from gifts to furniture and an inspiring garden area. It’s the perfect place to shop, with free parking on site, just off the A1at Markham Moor.

6.

Here’s a small taste here of what is on offer this autumn...

5.

1. Ceramic Buddha Head in turquoise. stands 50cm high £50.

with stag head £168.75. other animals - hare, fox, pheasant, horse - designs are available too.

2. A twist on the traditional Chesterfield sofa, with all round back, side and front buttons.

213cm x 70cm x 90cm in linen upholstery £1,700.

7. Blue antique leather ‘gentlemen’s study’ chair with studs £1,240.

3. Triple dresser in reclaimed wood with cupboard space and shelving. All doors can be locked, lovely detail to handles.

Approx 3m wide and 2.5m tall £2,200.

7.

4. oversized 50cm high hand blown glass bottle £80.

5. gifts for friends; peacock notebook with watercolour painting of peacock on fabric cover £7.50. Ceramic large Photo frame £18 6. 95% pewter barware; toddy/shot glasses £72/set three, stag head water jug £65, large jug

8. Trio of canvas prints; stag £87.50, fox and bee £95, hare £87.50. Approx 81cm x 61cm.

9. noir sideboard with solid elm top. detailed metal handles, three drawers and two deep cupboards. Approx 2.5m wide £1650.

10. Turquoise clock in painted wood 92 cm wide £125.

All of our featured items are available from Elizabeth and Stevens A1, Markham Moor, Notts, DN22 0QU. Call 01636 822000 or see www.elizabethandstevens.com.

10.

8.

9.

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Inspiration and Gift Ideas for your Home & Garden

A1, Markham Moor, Retford DN22 0QU 01636 822000 www.elizabethandstevens.com Wednesday to Saturday o the A1 signed to Lincoln A57 then take the turning to Retford A638 - come in and browse, we’re really friendly!

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- HoMEs -

2.

1.

Create a Beautiful

Winter Home

3.

4.

newark retailer denise starkey of gracegentle opened her home and giftware business in october 2013 in a beautiful grade II listed building. With exclusive brands and ideas for both Christmas gifts or to style your home this season...

1. Large ice bucket by Lene Bjerre £94.95.

Smaller ice bucket £29.95. Glasses by Sia Home Fashions £7.95/ea. Stag by Lene Bjerre £34.95. Pine cones £34.95/med, £49.95/lge, Heart bottle stopper by Parlane £9.95.

2. Range of animal home gifts with cats and dogs, designed by Leslie Gerry. Coasters £2.95/ea, mugs £14.95/ea, notebooks £9.95/ea.

3. SIA Home Fashion mantel horse sculpture, 20” tall, in resin £125.

5.

4. Lene Bjerre pillar candles in brown from £7.95. Candle sticks from £49.95. Large glass

7.

lantern by Sia Home Fashions £29.95.

Parlane T-Light Tray with seven votive tealights £49.95. Lene Bjerre hurricane lamp £49.95.

5. Sia Home Fashion wall clock, 38” x 21” £225.

6. Stoneglow Candles London candles from £15/ea, available in winter spice, redcurrant and cranberry, and cinnamon & orange.

7. Stoneglow Candles London reed diffusers £20/ea.

8. Frith Sculptures range - upright hare 19”, £155. Hermione, laying down £82. Hattie, small hare £58.

8.

6.

Products featured here are all available from gift and homeware retailer Gracegentle (opposite the Castle and Grounds) at 25A Castle Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG24 1AZ For more information call 01636 611933 or see www.gracegentle.co.uk

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CURTAINS BLINDS UPHOLSTERY SHUTTERS WALLPAPERS

Newlin Business Park, Exchange Road, Lincoln LN6 3AB. Tel: 01522 531371

www.rogerdavisinteriors.com

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- HOMES -

Colour &

CONTRAST

This month why not add a splash of colour and contrast to your home and create a modern, sophisticated look. With this month’s launch of two new collections from leading designer houses, you’ll be spoilt for choice with patterns and prints...

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Don’t wait for the opportunity spring clean. Rather, have a spruce up ready for Christmas entertaining with the latest collections from Jane Churchill and Colefax and Fowler, who bring an array of new patterns and prints to add a touch of sophistication...

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- HOMES -

Far Left: JC: Chair in Jive, Odissa and Jive cushions.

Who said you need the warmer weather to refresh your home? With the arrival of the colder months comes the brand new collections from two of the leading designer houses. Meaning you can create an infusion of bold and beautiful colours throughout your home for a sophisticated look, just in time for entertaining guests this Christmas.

Top Left: Curtains in Versus, chairs in Orion (burnt orange and pink), cushions in charcoal Plato.

Top Right: Colefax and Fowler: cushions: Lucius in charcoal, Baptista Linen in charcoal, Padova in petrol, Levan in aubergine, Padova in aubergine and Cesario in red. Sofa has Appledore old blue fabric, Cordelia onyx curtains.

Fabric and wallcovering designers Jane Churchill and Colefax and Fowler, who, with an array of patterns and prints, will help you add a splash of sophistication with their new collections: Havana, Atmosphere and Stylish Sophistication.

Over the years, designer Jane has built up an international reputation with her flair for creating fresh designs, from eye catching wallpapers to exotic prints, allowing homeowners to create a wide range of traditional and contemporary looks. Each range encompass easy-to-live with tones, and have a broad mix of fabrics, wallpapers and trimmings.

Left: Colefax and Fowler: curtains in old blue Pascale Stripe, left chair in charcoal Sinclair and cushion in aqua Cesario, right chair is old blue Sinclair.

This year she presents two leading stories: Havana and Atmosphere. Her colour palette is constantly evolving, and with every collection it is easy to co-ordinate and pull together any look that you want to create for your home.

“It is a truly modernised collection that looks both retro-chic and contemporary. Laid back diagonal stripes of Bossa Nova, florals of Ipanema and Mardi Gras, Ikats and stylish circles like the Patino, zigzags and Carnival triangles all make a welcome appearance, and combined they create an eclectic scene alongside the artistic Havana. Some of the elements replicate some of nature’s most beguiling patterns, like the Santana with exotic fruits.”

The Havana collection is colourful, featuring printed and embroidered signature designs, and together with small scale elements, you can create a harmonious look with lots of layers of patterns. Jane has incorporated Southern European and Latino overtones, with strong off-beat colours alongside brights and pastels.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Atmosphere collection of fabrics, which offer something a little more refined and chic, with a neutral and metallic pallette appearing across velvets, weaves and jacquards in luxurious graphic patterns and abstracted embroideries. Swirls and curves repeat the Arcola and

Overleaf: Jane Churchill: Apollo curtains, Sofa in Nocturne fabric, Cushions from left: Celena, Plato, Opus and Quartz.

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Opus patterns which are contrasted against Astrid and Polaris, paired with low-tech look of the Halcyon, with brushstroke printing design.

This collection is modern, with a graphic twist with sophisticated patterns.

The Colefax and Fowler collection will bring glamour and conďŹ dence to your home, with bold statement prints such as Lucius and Cordelia.

The designer house has used a palette of muted blue, rich red and onyx, teal and charcoal fused with orals and arabesques. Paisley designs also make an appearance, along with Pascale, Genoa and Adair stripes. Use embroideries such as Baptista and Martinez to have a rich colour to your home, along with damasks like Cesario. You can add texture with the informal Appledore with a mix of checks, plains and tickings.

To complement your fabrics, Colefax and Fowler have a range of decorative wallpapers featuring lots of different patterns, including the Baptista and the well renowned Snow Tree, perfect with Christmas just around the corner!

Right: Jane Churchill Havana Collection: Curtains in black Havana, left chair in pink Marimba, right chair in copper Capella, cushion on right chair in grey Cirrus. Below: Colefax and Fowler collection: curtains in onyx Cordelia, sofa in old blue Appledore, cushions: Lucius in charcoal, Baptista Linen in charcoal, Levan in aubergine, Cesario in red. Stool in aqua Cornelius. Left chair, Similar to Seymour Damask in red. Right chair, Similar to Seymour Damask in natural. Stockists: www.janechurchill.com/stockists and www.colefax.com/stockists.

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- HOMES -

Modern

Living Graeme and Sarah Swann were seeking a high-tech, eco-friendly and contemporary family home, and when a plot became available in the village of Caythorpe, they set about creating the property right down to the ďŹ nest detail...

Words: Rob Davis 72

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Sarah and Graeme Swann clearly love technology, but like the most sensible of consumer, they’d rather it was applied with consideration, rather than doing so gratuitously.

That’s why, when they came to define their new property, The Cygnets in Caythorpe, they incorporated only the most practical, discreetly employed technology.

If the name sounds familiar; it should be.

Graeme is a former international England cricketer who enlisted a friend, Guy Welton, to find a plot upon which they could design and project manage their dream property, working closely with architect Valeria Passetti and designers The Treehouse Interiors , back in 2012.

The brief was to create a house that had a modern look and feel, but was comfortable, too.

“Solar reactive glazing and an air source heat pump ensure the property is super energy efficient.”

Situated on a plot just over a third of an acre, and offering nearly 5,000sq ft of accommodation, its ecocredentials make the house cheaper to run than its size would suggest. Features like solar reactive double glazing, acoustic concrete flooring and a super-efficient air source heat pump all help to ensure the property is reallyefficient to heat and run.

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The result was a property that won the National Federation of Builders’s Private Home Award in 2013 with particular praise given to its design and finish. Arranged over three floors, the house has deceptively traditional proportions to the front; it’s symmetrical, like a Georgian property, with an easterly-facing drawing room with a pair of large curved glass doors, and a living kitchen with bi-fold doors leading onto a large terrace.

Top: The downstairs reception room has integrated home cinema equipment as well as a curved glazed wall.

Above: The dining room and kitchen are open-plan, separated only by a pillar with a contemporary fireplace.

Right: The kitchen has a bank of integrated appliances featuring brands like Miele.

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- HOMES -

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The ground floor also has a family room, large entrance hall and formal open plan dining room, leading to the kitchen, separated only by a modern feature fireplace integrated into the room’s pillar.

The kitchen’s contemporary grained wood and metallic silver finish is complemented with banks of Miele appliances, from combination ovens and microwaves to warming drawers and integrated coffee machine. Hidden away discreetly is a fridge freezer, and two Miele dishwashers.

Speaking of technology, the family integrated a Control 4 Tech system providing a single point of operation for all media systems from TV to hi-fi, for the property’s blinds, Velux windows, internal and external lighting, as well as the property’s heating.

To the first floor there’s a large master bedroom with dressing room, master bathroom and through a set of bi-fold doors a private curved terrace area lined with glass.

The first floor also has three further bedrooms, a second en suite bathroom and a large family bathroom, too. The second floor has two bedrooms. Each of the bathrooms suites have been created with Villeroy & Boch fittings, and it’s on the first floor, too, that the laundry room has been created, with plenty of built-in storage and no stairs to climb with bulky ironing baskets.

Outdoors, there’s an automated video entry system and powered gates, as well as a small landscaped front garden, with most of the grounds located to rear, set to lawn and designed for entertainment. A large sun terrace provides plenty of outdoor space for the whole family.

“Seeing something transformed before your eyes is addictive!” he says.

With a new project beckoning, the family have put the property on the market with Alexanders, and it’s safe to say that whichever family is the next custodian of the property, they’re getting somewhat of a bargain.

“Absolutely no expense has been spared on the fixtures, fittings and the use of technology...”

Graeme admits that having project managed and created his home, he’s been somewhat bitten by the bug.

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With absolutely no expense spared on the fixtures and fittings and the integration of technology, its next owners will enjoy not only a luxurious and beautiful property, but one that’s practical and efficient to run, too.

The Cygnets is on the market with estate agency Alexanders for £1.1m; 0115 8512211 www.alexanders-estates.com

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- HOMES -

Below/Left: The property is arranged over three floors with four bedrooms on the first floor and two additional bedrooms on the second floor.

Bottom: The spacious entrance hall.

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THE LARGEST RANGE OF RECLINERS IN THE AREA Riser Recliners

from only Three Piece Suites

Care Recliners

Fireside Chairs

£449 VAT Exempt*

PETERBOROUGH RECLINER CENTRE LTD www.peterboroughreclinercentre.co.uk T: 01733 325566 1B Mancetter Square, Lincoln Rd, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6BX Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Sun 11am-4pm

FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 25 MILES

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- HOMES -

Kill Your Bills ...and ‘go green’ with renewables From the warmth and comfort of an open fire to sophisticated renewable energy technology, going green is good for the planet - and for your pocket.

This month we’ve hassle-free ways to kill your bills and embrace renewable energy.

Words: Rob Davis.

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We all know household bills are rising.

What’s more, it’s the larger and older properties around the county which are being hit hardest.

Currently, the UK sources most of its energy from natural gas (41%), coal (29%) and nuclear sources (18%), but the Government is charged with the responsibility of using renewables to reduce its CO2 emissions by 60% by 2020 and become more reliant on green energy, and less on fossil fuels from countries like Russia.

The government has also introduced generous renewable incentives for homeowners to offset the initial cost of installation.

One of the easiest ways to go green and kill your bills is to install a wood burning or multi-fuel stove.

“Multi-fuel stoves allow you to burn a range of fuels from coals, smokeless fuels to wood and anthracite and can work out considerably cheaper than other forms of heating.” says Helen Fearn of County Stoves, one of the area’s leading installers.

The beauty of wood burning and multi-fuel stoves is that they are, essentially, carbon neutral. That’s because they absorb as much CO2 during the growth of the tree as they release during burning.

The cost of burning wood is also much lower than coal, gas or oil with savings of around £100 a year for homes currently heated by gas and more than £580 for homes heated by electricity. Biomass systems reduce costs even more, with a typical installation paying

for itself within five years, based on an average 18% return each year, with the best returns going to larger properties, situated rurally and heated by oil deliveries.

One of the most popular renewable installations is solar energy systems.

Considered less intrusive than turbines, these are best suited to the UK climate given that they work all year round, even on cloudy days. A wind turbine’s provision of generation is, by contrast, more erratic because of changes in wind speed, direction and location.

“One of the easiest ways to go green and kill your bills is to install a wood burning or multi-fuel stove...”

“The cost of the system depends on the number of panels that you opt for.

The more panels you have, the more energy you can generate, and the greater savings you’ll see.” says Emma Stronge of installer Mark Group.

Opposite: Wood burning stoves like Aga’s new Fusion model are more energy efficient than ever, producing a clean burn and cosy heat.

“Prices start from £5,000, and an average household system is around 4kWp and this can generate around 3,700 kilowatt hours of

Above: Orangehouse renewables demonstrate the savings that are to be made with ground source heat pump technology.

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- HOMES -

electricity a year - roughly equivalent to a typical household’s electricity needs. It will save nearly two tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.”

“If your system is eligible for the Feed-In Tariff scheme it could generate savings and income of around £770 a year. You can expect to be paid for the energy you generate for the next 20 years and to have covered the cost of your initial investment within the first 5-10 years, depending on how much energy you’re generating and selling back to the grid.”

“The great thing about solar panels is that they are very low maintenance. Once they have been installed you can literally forget that they are there, whilst appreciating the benefits.”

Meanwhile, wind turbines are most suited to generating electricity in rural areas with lots of open space. Building mounted turbines are cheaper at around £2,000, saving around £210/year in electricity costs and paying for themselves within around 10 years. Large pole-mounted turbines generate around three times the electricity but cost between £20,000 and £30,000, generating around £10,000/kWh a year and saving roughly 5 tonnes of carbon each year with FIT rewards of around 17.8p/kWh. Of all renewable technologies, the most challenging to install but the most energy efficient are ground (and air) source pumps.

Companies in the area like Orangehouse Renewables and Energy My Way can install systems which recover heat from beneath the ground using coils of glycol.

“The technology sounds new, but it’s essentially the same process used in your refrigerator or freezer, which heats away from your food and releases in coils at the rear of the appliance.” says local installer Alex Driver. The technology is incredibly efficient, despite the hassle of installation.

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The systems are best suited to new-build properties in rural areas, with paddocks or similar expanses of land, and provide returns via the Government’s Renewable Heat Initiative rather than FIT. Returns are around 18.8p/kWh, and if your rural property would otherwise be heated by heated by deliveries of oil, you can expect to heat your property 60% cheaper using the technology.

Renewable energy has the ability to save both your pocket, and the planet. From carbon-neutral wood-burning stoves to new technology, a local supplier will definitely have a suitable system to provide savings you’ll really warm to this winter.

“Renewable energy systems can heat any home, saving money, saving the planet and earning the householder generous FIT or RHI returns...”

Above: Mark Group’s installation of solar panels on one of the county’s rooftops.

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BESPOKE CURTAINS

& SOFT FURNISHINGS • New Season Collections of Wallpapers & Fabrics Arriving •New Stock of Lamps & Cushions

Timeless Interiors Old Town Hall, High St, Spilsby PE23 5JH Telephone: 01790 754477 www.timelessinteriors.co.uk

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- the land rover burghley horse trials 2014 -

Third Time Lucky for Andrew & Avebury new Zealand rider andrew nicholson and his mount, avebury, contributed to delivering a typically dramatic, typically entertaining burghley horse trials for visitors this year. the event is crucial for the lincolnshire town of stamford delivering between ÂŁ16m and ÂŁ20m of revenue into the area and attracting over 160,000 spectators...

Images: Tom Dulat, Getty Images, Kit Houghton, Veena Cornish.

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William Fox Pitt. He has won the event six times between 1994 and 2011.

Top: VIPs at the event included Zara Phillips.

Above: Andrew Nicholson takes the top prize, seen here with Miranda Rock of the Burghley House Preservation Trust, and owners of Avebury, Mark and Rosemary Barlow.

Above/Right: Burgers with extra bite were served up courtesy of celebrity chef James Martin.

World class, and justifiably popular, the 2014 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials provided no shortage of drama, action and celebration this year as over 160,000 spectators enjoyed the four-star FEI affiliated equestrian event.

It was a record breaking year not just in terms of popularity - Burghley has won the coveted L’Année Hippique prize, seven times, that’s more times than any other equestrian competition - but for this year’s winner, Andrew Nicholson, who won the event for a third consecutive time with the same horse, Avebury.

“He loves it. He knows why we are here and what he has to do,” says Andrew. “I ride him like I’ve just stolen him, and he thrives on being asked to take all the short cuts.”

Having competed at Burghley over 30 times, jumping over 1,500 cross country fences, Andrew is fast catching up with the event’s most successful competitor, British rider

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This year, Fox-Pitt this year took fourth place behind Australian Sam Griffiths and New Zealanders Jonathan ‘Jock’ Paget on Clifton Promise and Andrew Nicholson.

Controversy surrounded Jock last year as the rider was disqualified from the competition when Clifton Promise tested positive for the banned sedative reserpine. The rider was exonerated in August after Clifton’s legal herbal supplement was found to be contaminated. Jock and Clifton were not expected to compete this year, but surprised some in the eventing world by returning to the event this year in magnanimous style.

“It’s nice to be back here and nice to be back on this horse. I have been really impressed with the way people have approached the matter. When you have a positive test for a banned substance it’s pretty easy to think a bad thing.”

The presention of Burghley’s awards took place alongside Director of the

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- the land rover burghley horse trials 2014 -

“Andrew is catching up with the event’s most successful competitor, British rider William Fox-Pitt, who has won the event six times...”

Burghley House Preservation Trust Miranda Rock, and owners of Avebury, Mark and Rosemary Barlow.

Away from the equestrian action, lead sponsor Land Rover used the event to reveal to the public for the first time their new Discovery Sport small off-roader which will replace its current Freelander model.

Meanwhile, with 160,000 spectators; 600 trade stands; 26 gallons of Pimm’s consumed; 6,386 restaurant lunches enjoyed, plus 450 horses taking part over the four days... the 2014 Land Rover Burghley horse Trials remained as impressive as ever in terms of scale, as well as action.

Final visitor numbers were still being confirmed for this year’s event as Pride goes to press, but a spokesperson for the event said; “We had the best weather on Saturday and Sunday and that helped to bring more people through the gates. It all seemed to go extremely well and we regard the event as having been a great success. We are sure that more than 160,000 people visited the horse trials during the four days.”

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to view and purchase photographs from the event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

The 2014 Land Rover

Burghley Horse Trials This year’s Burghley Horse Trials was perfect for anyone seeking to spot a celebrity or two! Shown right is our photographer, Veena Cornish, taking the opportunity to enjoy a ‘selfie’ with BBC sports presenter and amateur jockey Claire Balding. Veena also enjoyed a chat with celebrity chef James Martin who was enjoying the atmosphere of the UK’s number one equestrian event.

The event is worth between £16m and £20 to the area’s economy, and is attended by over 160,000 each year, so in addition to serving as one of the UK’s few four-star FEI affiliated eventing competitions, it’s also a county show of great importance to the local economy.

Images: Veena Cornish.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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Call 01529 469977 and speak to our events desk...

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Purchase photographs from this event online. visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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- gardens & giFts -

Four Seasons wishes you a very

Merry Christmas Celebrate Christmas this month with your local family run garden centre. With plenty of crafts and individual gifts for the whole family, and lots of locally sourced produce, food, fresh Christmas trees and wreaths the centre really can make your season special...

Celebrate Christmas with a little help from Sleaford’s Four Seasons Garden Centre this month. Santa arrives on his sleigh on Saturday 29th November at 11am.

“We will have mince pies, Christmas Carols and plenty of festive cheer.” says the centre’s Mark Elliott. “Santa and his little helpers will be here every weekend in December until the 21st at which point he has to go back to the North Pole to make final arrangements for the big day”.

“Anyone, young or old, can visit Santa in his Grotto, with a little pre-Christmas gift as long as you promise to be good boys and girls. Four Seasons is once again proud to be raising money on behalf of the Sleaford Lions & Lionesses.”

“Our Christmas Craft Fayre returns and due to popular demand we have extended it to cover the weekend of Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd November. Make sure you visit this, our 3rd annual event where we will be celebrating the best products from our talented local crafters. This two day event promises to be a real date for your diary.” says Mark.

We can even tailor a Christmas wreath to your own requirements.”

“Have you thought about giving someone a Christmas hamper full of only the finest local & regional produce? Our Delicatessen can make your hamper to any taste and budget, so speak to a member of the Deli team and give someone a really special gift or just treat yourself, after all it is Christmas.”

“There’s no need to be stuck for present ideas this Christmas as our gift department is bursting full of hundreds of ideas for children & adults alike. Don’t forget to visit our newly revamped clothing department which now stocks Puffa, Brakeburn, Tayberry, Sherwood Forest & Dock of the Bay.” “Finally nothing says Christmas more than a traditional Christmas Lunch, Mary and her team are now taking bookings for every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout December for our Four Seasons Restaurant Christmas lunch.”

“Our Christmas Craft Fayre returns by popular demand on 22nd and 23rd November...”

“Our selection of real Christmas trees will be here from the 29th November. They have proved so popular that we would recommend choosing your tree early to avoid any disappointment, and while you’re here why not take a look at our extensive range of decorations, lights & cards.”

“We will also have a large selection of Christmas Holly Wreaths & Christmas plants.

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“Choose from a traditional turkey roast with all the trimmings or roast beef, or if you prefer our vegetarian option.”

“All our meat is supplied by Simpson’s our on-site awarding winning butcher. Once you have finished your main course you can then choose from either Christmas pudding or homemade winter berry cheesecake for dessert.”

Visit Four Seasons Garden Centre on London Road, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 8NY. Call 01529 304970 or see www.fourseasonsgardencentre.co.uk

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Main: The centre has all you need for decorating your home this season.

Left: Children can visit Santa Claus in the centre’s colourful grotto.

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- Countryside -

Bring home

Farming Quality 94

With 40 years experience of serving lincolnshire farmers, the John deere franchise which bears Zoë doubleday-Collishaw’s family name, think it’s time for people to bring home quality products that have been tried and tested on the farm...

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Celebrate the season with Country gifts for the whole family...

Right: Tweed for children from The British Country Collection. Boys and girls sporting jackets available with matching caps. Shown here is a 3yrs boy’s jacket £44.92, matching hat £24.

Below: John Deere 12v Power Pull battery ride-on tractor for 3yrs+, £280 inc trailer.

Three generations of experience, 40 years spent working with local farmers, and the backing of one of the world’s best brands.

Doubleday of Swineshead, Holbeach, Bourne and Kings Lynn have been helping to bring home the harvest ever since John Doubleday set up the business in 1974.

Today, anyone from domestic consumers with modest gardens or small estates right up to the largest farming estates can take advantage of the group’s expertise with machinery from John Deere, plus farming brands Väderstad, Maschio and Cousins to name just a few.

“Of these brands, it’s John Deere which has used its farming experience to create a really good range of products for use in the domestic market.” says Zoë.

“From robot mowers to walk-behind models from £500 to a range of ride-on mowers and lawn tractors from around £2,500, we’ve products for every size of plot.

Our lawn tractors also have a range of accessories like trailers, sweepers, snowploughs and spreaders to really make the most of your investment.”

Doubleday also has a range of country clothing with the best boots, jackets and gilets, and toys available too. “We’ve some really great gift ideas for the whole family this season.” says Zoë. “Having just opened the flagship showroom in April, we’ve been

Left: Musto Braemar quilted ladies jacket in navy £150.

Below: Le Chameau Vierzonord boots £165/adults, £50/children.

pleasantly surprised by the interest that even those from non-farming backgrounds have in our products.”

“Our open weekend was really well attended so we’re planning a Christmas shopping event too, where families can enjoy the latest products from names like Le Chameau, Musto, Country Collection and many more. All of our giftware has been inspired by farming so it’s well-made and really designed to last, keep you warm and evoking a love of the countryside.”

In addition to providing great products for the family, the company maintains a great working relationship with farmers too.

With sales, servicing and parts for the best brands in farming, Doubleday is now both your partner in the field and a great place to start your Christmas shopping, too.

Visit Doubleday on Station Road, Swineshead.

Alternatively, call 01205 822440 or see www.doubledaygroup.co.uk.

Below: Tractor Ted range for children, duvet set (not pictured) £36, lunch box £9.99, mug £4, melamine plates £6, bowl £6.

All of our featured gifts are available from Doubleday’s Swineshead branch.

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- gardening -

The Season of Mist and

Mellow

Fruitfulness

With a crispness in the air and the falling of leaves, late autumn turns into winter.

We recently visited Sandra and Jonathan Blaza’s three and a half acre plot and met the keen local gardeners. Here, we ďŹ nd out how their georgian style grounds have evolved over 12 years through hard work and skilful design...

Images: Sandra Blaza. Words: Rob Davis.

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- gardenS -

“Splitting the garden up into different ‘rooms’ meant we could tackle one at a time.” says Sandra.

“It also means that when there’s weeding or tidying up to be done I can work on one area at a time.”

The garden’s condition was similar to that of the house, needing a lot of care but with lots of potential. The plot sloped quite considerably and was heart shaped; not so much laid to lawn as extremely overgrown, buried under wild grasses, ground elder, nettles and ivy.

Sensibly, given the different levels and unusually shaped plot, the couple’s first stroke of genius was to divide the garden up into different ‘rooms.’

This facilitated the creation of smaller gardens with individual planting schemes, colour schemes and points of interest all within the garden as a whole. It also made the logistics of managing the plot much easier.

Main: A shot taken earlier in the year demonstrates the wealth of David Austin roses in the rose garden.

Left: The walled garden was created using reclaimed bricks and has four pairs of vegetable beds.

You can always tell when a garden is a labour of love. When it’s created not just with skill and knowledge, but with passion and commitment.

That’s definitely the case with Sandra and Jonathan’s three and a half acre garden which we visited following another successful year of NGS fundraising.

“We’ve raised a total of just under £20,000 for the NGS and Eden Valley Hospice In the four years we’ve opened for the NGS.” says Sandra.

The couple purchased the property, originally a 16th century cottage with rambling Georgian additions, in 1996.

The house is in a beautiful position with panoramic views, but necessitated a back-tobrick refurbishment which meant a whole year of work before the family could move in.

Once the house was in a reasonable state, after another three or four years, they felt they could begin to work on the garden.

“Splitting the garden up into different areas meant we could tackle one at a time.” says Sandra. “It also means that when there’s weeding or tidying up to be done, I can complete one area at a time.”

The mostly south-west facing garden’s first area to be seen by visitors is the rose garden, with formal, neatly symmetrical box hedging and a wealth of David Austin roses.

A central two tier Edwardian fountain was reclaimed from their previous house, and steps from the rose garden lead to both a rear terrace and the rill, created in reclaimed York stone. At this point it’s important to recognise that whilst Sandra is the dedicated and highly skilled plantswoman, it’s Jonathan who is responsible for the hard landscaping.

Working together with Trevor Blatherwick, a gardener and landscaper from Oakham, he put in steps, terraces, paths and walls.

The centre of the walled garden has a bespoke David Harber armillary sphere commissioned by Jonathan and the couple’s 101

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will look in a specific planting scheme. I wander round with a handful of flowers to see how they look in a particular light.”

The garden’s main lawned area and borders follow three different colour schemes; blue and lime, facilitated with wisteria, clematis, agapanthus and catmint; blue and yellow facilitated by roses, irises, day lilies and geraniums and finally, red and purple, courtesy of dicentra, peonies, monarda and daylilies.

There’s limited colour in the white rose garden, just adjacent to the rill, but it still manages to look splendid with 36 Macmillan Nurse roses and a bust of Marcus Aurelius covered in clematis ‘Wisley.’

“The centre of the walled garden has a bespoke David Harber armillary sundial commissioned by the couple’s children for Sandra’s last ‘significant’ birthday...”

Top: The rill was constructed

by Jonathan and Trevor in York stone.

Opposite: The top terrace has a trio of olive trees, as well as lemon trees and grape vines.

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two boys for Sandra’s last ‘significant’ birthday, with the engraved message that ‘all the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today.’

“We both have creative input into the garden, but we don’t divide it up geographically. We’ve our own areas of expertise and we each respect these. There’s a standing joke that Jonathan only gardens with machinery whilst I only use secateurs and a trowel.”

One aspect of the garden that Sandra is keenest on is choosing colour schemes.

“Although I started by planning everything theoretically, I was so often disappointed by the results, that now I know I need to see the flowers in situ, before I can judge how they

The garden’s largest single area is a 33m x 25m walled garden on the grounds of a former pony paddock, created in reclaimed bricks from a derelict structure on the plot. Four pairs of beds are rotated to optimise the vegetable production; each of these is surrounded by step-over apples with wild strawberries creating interest at ground level.

Two further orchards, a lime walk and wildlife pond all provide even more interest - and even more work - for the couple, so it’s easy to see why it’s now the full time occupation and pleasure for both Sandra and Jonathan. They’ve worked extremely hard to produce not only a neatly maintained garden, but one that’s beautifully conceived and designed, too.

A new garden on an old site, the Old Vicarage’s garden will doubtless look beautiful for years to come, with the seeds of today definitely creating one of the area’s most beautiful for its many tomorrows.

The Old Vicarage’s gardens are open on selected NGS days and to groups by appointment only.

See www.theoldvicarageburley.com

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- gardenS -

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- nature -

Making a Winter Home for

Nature

Our nature correspondent richard Owens advises on ways to make simple but extremely welcome, habitats - ones that you can create in your own garden. this winter, give all creatures great and small a home during the cooler months...

As we move into November, the grass growth begins to slow down and our thoughts turn to the cold winter months ahead. Maybe you’ll plan a getaway to warmer climates or perhaps see the winter through at home sitting cosily in front of an open fire?

What has this got to do with wildlife you may ask? Well, before you throw all of your logs on the fire, I’m going to tell you how you can help the wildlife in your garden with a couple of simple easy to do projects using a few spare logs and a little bit of time.

few logs, you don’t need many; half a dozen or so will normally suffice. Try to avoid using willow or poplar species as these will often re-sprout, and never be tempted to remove any logs from woodland or natural areas.

So, now that you’ve built your eco-pile, what is going to live there you may ask, well the list is endless. Initially it may be used as a refuge for frogs and small mammals, but as the wood starts to decompose, it becomes a valuable home for many different mini-beasts including beetles, centipedes and the woodlouse.

“Consider creating a log or ‘eco-pile.’ Simply find a nice quiet corner of your garden and create a pile of logs...”

First of all, consider creating a log or ‘ecopile.’ Simply find a nice quiet corner of your garden and create a pile of logs.

There are really no set rules, just ensure that the pile is stacked safely and securely, ideally in a damp shady location. If you don’t have any logs for fire wood, simply speak to a local tree surgeon and explain your plans.

Generally they will be happy to spare you a 104

However it’s not just the animals that will benefit from the decaying wood, as during the winter months many interesting species of Fungi may also be observed. Ongoing maintenance is quite simple too; just add a new log each year for regeneration.

If your pile is situated in a grassy area, it may be worth allowing a small area surrounding the pile to grow long. Not only

would this create a great migration passage for voles and mice but would also create a home for grasshoppers and crickets.

So we’ve built our eco-pile, what else can we do with a log? Answer; we can make an insect home. Quite simply all we need to do is drill some holes into the log using a 10mm drill bit to 2-3 inches depth (adult supervision is required!).

The logs can then be placed anywhere, on a fence, up a tree or simply on a window ledge. Wherever you put it though, please ensure that it is secure and can’t fall off.

After a little while your simple insect hotel may be used by ladybirds, lacewings and possibly solitary bees.

Also this month, if practical, avoid moving any leaf piles as they may be home to hibernating toads and hedgehogs and please remember to keep filling your bird feeders and bird baths. Stay warm everyone!

Richard has spent his career promoting bio diversity within the world of turf and is currently the UK's Golf Course Conservation Greenkeeper of the Year.

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- farming matterS -

A Winter of Discontent in

Farming Once again farming matters are influenced by overseas turbulence and by the weather. farming correspondent Barry Poston looks at the issues affecting farmers during a winter of international discontent. With an early harvest this year, at least autumn cultivation has proceeded without interruption...

As we move into November, a good period of dry weather allowed the cereal harvest to finish around the end of August.

Potato lifting started ten days earlier than normal and both yields and conditions at lifting were generally good.

The yield was slightly above average and with reduced drying costs. Unfortunately prices had considerably dropped and the overall return per acre will be less than last year.

Unfortunately higher dry matters meant that special attention had to be given to damaging. Those growers with ambient drying stores will have to be especially vigilant as it is important to reduce the temperature of the potatoes in store as soon as possible after lifting.

Although there was considerable ‘blackgrass’ in the crop the combines managed to deal with the weed’s interference especially if the crop had been sprayed with roundup prior to harvest.

“Unfortunately prices for milk have dropped considerably, and it is now well below the cost of production...”

All farmers have given considerable thought to reducing the amount of this obnoxious grass weed in 2015’s crop.

Control measures, such as returning to ploughing, later sowing and the spraying of stale seedbeds are all being used.

There is no doubt though that the best control of all - the burning of straw and rubbish - will never be allowed to return.

The price level is much lower than last year and with reasonably good yields, the return does not look to be too good for the rest of the year.

Firstly, harvesting of sugar beet looks to be quite good with average sugar content, and with this year’s price per ton, the overall return looks to be economic.

With the size of the crop, the season is set to be a long one with sugar beet factories open well into the spring. The harvesting of vining peas, for freezing and canning, proceeded well with just below target yields.

No peas had to be bypassed for seed, and in the relatively good weather the machines performed very well with none having to be towed out due to wet soil conditions.

The early harvest allowed several farmers to attend to bottoming out dykes and clearing drains. These are maintenance jobs that often get left in the frenzy of autumn cultivations but better if they can be completed when conditions are drier.

On the livestock side of farming, the price of milk has dropped considerably and is now below the cost of production. There are several reasons for this; firstly the better grass growing weather, but also increased production in New Zealand, more cheese and butter on the world market and finally, the move by Russia to ban all EU products in retaliation for economic sanctions over the situation in Ukraine.

Barry Poston is the area’s foremost farming expert with a long history working in both arable and livestock environments. During his career he has seen a great many changes in the industry!

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- mOtOrS -

The Streetwise

Swede a favourite on the school run, Volvo’s flagship XC90 has been updated to suit family motorists seeking a safe, comfortable SuV with seven seats and the latest technology with prices from £69,000 for ‘first edition’ models Words: Rob Davis Sober, Swedish and Safe. It’s fair to say that Volvo isn’t the most exciting manufacturer of motor cars in the UK, but the character of the company, known for its solid, reliable family estates nevertheless remains; one of motoring’s most favourable and enduring reputations.

The emergence of 4x4 ‘SUV’ vehicles severely dented sales of large estates, and so, despite still offering its large estates, Volvo had to launch its first XC90 4x4 in 2002. Now, there’s a new model, and there are several reasons why it’s a crucial car for the Swedish manufacturer.

Firstly, it’s a flagship vehicle, rather ambitiously targeting would-be Range Rover Discovery and Audi Q7 motorists. With competition as strong as those models, the new version of the XC90 has to be very good indeed. Secondly though, the car is built on a new chassis which the company calls its Scalable Product Architecture. Essentially, this means it’s the platform on which all future Volvos will be created, with the floorplan just resized. How the new XC90’s handling is received, therefore, is likely to indicate the success - or failure - of future models’ reception, too. Volvo is planning to release a number of new models in 2015, each taking the XC90 as their technical blueprint. What’s more, all future models will feature brand new engines, each of which will debut in the XC90 too.

So, after £6bn of investment in research and development, plus the creation of a brand new chassis and new engines, the XC90 will go on sale in Spring with prices from around £45,000. However, in a unique move, the firm last month released 1,927 ‘first edition’ cars, all of which were sold online without a single viewing or test drive. These will be delivered to drivers early next year. 1927 was, incidentally, also the year that the company A Blueprint for the Future: was formed.

The new Volvo XC90 introduces The ‘first edition’ vehicles carry a price tag of £69,000 and featured what is likely to be the most popular of Volvo’s new engines, a modestly sized 2.0 four cylinder turbocharged unit.

a brand new design language, new engines and a new scalable product architecture which will simply be resized, then used to produce all of Volvo’s future models. This is not just the launch of a new car, it’s the relaunch of the Swedish firm.

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“What the new XC90 represents, is not just a facelift, not just a new car, but a manifesto for a new Volvo...”

Many motoring manufacturers are downsizing engines now - Ford’s 1.0 Mondeo, for instance - so despite its substantial size and standard seven seats, Volvo will not offer six cylinder engines, only four cylinder petrol and diesel units. A hybrid will also utilise both a turbocharger and supercharger to deliver 400hp with CO2 emissions of less than 60g.

What that means in practice is the XC90 will be more economical than ever, with no compromise in power or performance. And it’s not the only element of the car that has been consolidated.

Gone is the slab of fiddly interior buttons, replaced by an ultra-high resolution, easy to use touchscreen, which changes to present the driver with options for entertainment, sat nav, or climate controls.

Also standard is adaptive cruise control with steer assist which will, to some degree, ‘autopilot’ the vehicle on A-roads and motorways. The car will even look out for pedestrians and cyclists in town and automatically brake the car if it detects a collision.

The interior of the XC90, too, is more luxurious than the car it replaces, with crystal glass and diamond cut detailing, plus higher quality hide for the seats and dash.

What the new XC90 represents, then, is not just a facelift, not just a new car, but a manifesto for a new Volvo. There’s new technology, better economy, but thankfully, the same commitment to safety and innovation that have made the company one of the world’s most well-respected names in motoring since 1927.

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- Wedding photography -

Picture Perfect Tips on choosing the right photographer to capture your special day...

Images by Don Lambert, www.donlambert.co.uk.

You’ll remember your wedding day for the rest of your life, but making sure you capture those special moments is equally important.

Taking pictures has never been easier, with screens on digital cameras so you can preview your images making sure you’ve used the correct exposure and angle. Plus, there’s no need to spend time developing and printing your images manually either. It’s now quicker to design and print images on computers, easier to distributed pictures on CD and via the internet.

This has meant there are more wedding photographers than ever, but although the medium has become easier, the skill and art of using flash correctly, manipulating light, dealing tactfully with emotional brides and posing people remains a challenge.

That is why choosing a professional photographer to capture your special day is very important, as they can work with an abundance of weather forecasts, whether it is a bright sunny day, overcast or a gloomy rainy day.

They can also handle photographing the larger formal group shots, or that first intimate dance in a dark room.

A professional photographer also has plenty of the right kit, including a camera, lenses, flashes, and back up batteries! Often, professional photography companies also have more than one photographer, which enables them to cover both the bride and groom during the preparations.

They also have far more options for after the wedding, including photobooks of your images, or large mounted prints rather than standard prints from a domestic printer.

Having the right experience also 116

enables a professional photographer to be able to deal with an emotional and anxious bride (or groom).

Wedding photographs, when kept on your mantelpiece or on your desk at the office, have the potential to be moments frozen in time, so it is very important to capture them perfectly, and to do so with a high level of both technical and creative mastery.

When it comes to choosing the right one for you, there are some key questions you should ask.

Are You a Professional?

Not all amateur photography will end in disaster, but the idea that someone can attend a wedding as a guest and also as the official photographer is unrealistic. Those who market themselves as photographers but don’t work as full-time professional wedding photographers may not be able to dedicate sufficient time and energy to capturing your big day, or able to supply your images promptly after your special day.

What’s Your Style?

Lots of photographers have a particular style when it comes to photographing a wedding - the main two being traditional and reportage that has a much more natural approach.

The contemporary style is also becoming more popular, inspired by editorial fashion shots which are less formal and rigid, with interesting spots as a backdrop and strong light effects and unusual angles. Traditional styles favour groups and romantic shots, reportage shots appear unposed and concentrate on a natural look that appears to be less intrusive.

Will I Be Retouched?

Most professional photographer perform post-processing on your

images whether they’re shooting on film or digitally. Some, however, limit this to tone and colour correction. You should ask if your photographer will perform black and white conversions, sepia tints and other similar effects in the post-production, colour popping, or blemish removal and how much time they will put into post-processing your images.

When Can I See My Photographs?

Some photographers can turn around their images rapidly whilst others take several months – sometimes even longer, depending on the time of year and the amount working to post-process and present your pictures, so ask for an estimated time to expect your images.

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Must have images!

What images should you definitely ask your wedding photographer to capture...? here are our top suggestions...

In the Morning...

Ask your photographer to capture you getting ready in the morning. You’ll be surprised what intimate and beautiful images they can be. Those finishing touches to your hair and make up, laughing with the bridal party and enjoying a glass of fizz. The proud moment when the father sees his daughter in her wedding dress for the first.

If you have two photographer, capture the groom too!

The Finer Details...

Do You Work Alone?

Having two or more photographers covering your wedding ensures the bride and groom can each be photographed getting ready, or detail shots of your day can be captured whilst the other organises group photographs. The more photographers who attend, the more comprehensive your wedding images will be.

Can I Have My Images On CD/DVD? Lots of couples like to have digital copies of their wedding images, so it’s important to ask if you can obtain low-quality or watermarked versions of your images to use personally, or share with friends. Lots of peoples lives are carried out digitally, and being able to use your pictures in digital photo frames, on social networking sites and being able to email them or print them out at home is essential.

What Will My Final Album Include?

Packages vary enormously depending on the photographer you choose – you should always ask how many prints and what sizes are included in your photographer’s price.

What will your album look like and how many images will feature?

Do You Carry Backup Equipment?

Every photographer should have backup flashes, lenses and other equipment such as batteries to ensure they can carry on shooting in the event of faulty equipment.

Are You Fully Insured?

You must make sure your photographer is insured against stolen equipment, lost or damaged films or memory cards, or if they fall ill on the day of your wedding.

Will We Get On? Getting along with your photographer isn’t just a nicety.

Your photographer should make you feel comfortable and at ease so they can create relaxed looking shots on your wedding day.

On an emotional day, it is crucial that your photographer is sufficiently assertive to pose and offer instruction to the wedding party so they can capture the images you require.

Lots of photographers organise ice-breaker engagement shoots for you and your fiancè before the big day so you can get used to posing, and your photographer too.

Lots of weddings include the finer details, and couples often want to remember the dedication and hard work they put into planning their big day. The decorations, intricate details on the wedding dress, the wedding rings tactfully placed - all should be captured and treasured.

I Do! Capture memorable photographs of you exchanging your vows, saying ‘I do’ and sharing your first kiss as Husband and Wife.

All Together Now...

Formal group shots don’t have to be boring - ask your photographer to try something a little different, like jumping in the air or holding hands and laughing as they walk towards the camera.

Cutting The Cake...

One of the most traditional images, and one you should definitely get!

The First Dance...

The first dance is quite intimate; all eyes are on you as you dance closely together. So it’s important your photographer captures the moment, the crowds and the lighting right.

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The Bostonian Private Wing, Pilgrim Hospital, Sibsey Road, Boston, Lincs PE21 9QS Telephone: 01205 360606 / Facsimile: 01205 311442 www.the-bostonian.co.uk • ISO 9001:2008 accredited

Pilgrim Hospital’s Private Wing

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- christMas party fashion -

The Perfect Dresses for

Party Season

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With seasonal functions, the office party and New Year’s Eve all just around the corner, now’s the time to be inspired by Red Carpet Ready, the region’s newest and largest dress specialist who have quickly become the go-to destination for dresses for every occasion...

Christmas is fast approaching, and with it comes a calendar of events, a New Year’s Eve function and the ubiquitous office party.

It is, of course, essential to look glamorous, in a unique outfit that could have been hand-picked by the most gifted personal shopper on Knightsbridge. Fortunately, you don’t need to venture as far as the capital to take advantage of such guidance - nor spend Knightsbridge prices - to browse through, try on, and purchase the largest selection of occasionwear brands in the region.

Located 8 minutes from Lincoln City Centre in a luxurious location, Kirsty Gale’s background in retail management and marketing, combined with a love of fashion, saw her recognising a gap in the market for an exclusive boutique specialising in dresses for all occasions and budgets.

“Having opened in December 2013 we’re approaching our first anniversary, and have the largest selection in County of both short and long dresses.” says Kirsty.

Opposite from Left to Right: Emma is wearing a long red dress, £220, also available in cobalt, blue and black sizes 8-12. Sammi’s illusionfit cobalt dress, £330, is also available in black and red wine, sizes 6-14. Jess’s black dress is available in 00-18, £449, also in gold, silver, aqua, fuchsia and royal blue. Jade’s £545 champagne embellished dress is available in sizes 2-18. Samantha’s fully sequinned, open back limited edition jade green dress, £395, is also available in red, sizes 2-16 and Fiona’s Swarovski-embellished open back dress, shown here in red £545, also available in cobolt and olive.

With over 900 styles across 23 world wide brands, in sizes from 00-20, the retailer also has a selection of clutch bags and matching jewellery for occasions such as proms, balls, weddings and Christmas parties.

Red Carpet Ready recently won Prom Queen on Channel 5, has been busy dressing finalists for Miss Universe and Miss England, and the company’s dresses will also be making an appearance in the next series of TOWIE.

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- christMas party fashion -

“We buy internationally, sourcing dresses from the US, Barcelona, Paris and Milan.” says Kirsty...

Kirsty says; “We’re different from any other boutiques in that we receive large quantities of stock weekly as well as buying in new collections seasonally. Our stock turnover is high, which means we have always got new things to show our customers.”

“Our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages are alive with new arrivals and competitions with prizes and vouchers, whilst our customers love posting images of themselves at their events wearing our dresses.”

“Our party collections have now arrived and our spring prom ranges are arriving now too. We’re open seven days a week until 9pm with appointments recommended, but during Saturdays, you can just pop in.”

Red Carpet Ready is open seven days a week until 9pm by appointment and is based on Hall Lane, Branston, Lincoln LN4 1PY. Call for more information on 01522 793777 or see www.redcarpetready.co.uk.

Alternatively visit: Facebook/Redcarpetreadyltd Instagram; @RedCarpetReadyLincoln Twitter; @RedCarpetLincs.

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Above: Customers often post images of themselves in their new dresses on Red Carpet Ready’s social media channels.

Opposite from Left to Right: Jess is wearing a long-sleeved Swarovski embellished lace overlaid dress with plunging neckline in sizes 2-18, also available in ivory £415; clutch bag £35.

Jade wears a white limited edition dress, limited sizes remaining £495.

Fiona is shown here in a very glamorous embellished dress in nude, as seen on various celebs.

A great party dress £395, sizes 2-16; clutch bag £38.

Emma’s limited edition black dress has a hand-detailed bodice and skater skirt £550, limited sizes; clutch bag £40.

Samantha’s cream dress is available in 6-16, and in red or black too. Embellished collar with lace sleeves £125; clutch bag £40.

Sammi’s dress is £105, available in sizes 6-16, also available in black. Matching clutch bag £30.

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Find us at: No 3 Rutland Road, Skegness, Lincs PE25 2AD Tel: 01754 763258.

Opening Hours: Monday- Saturday 9.30am-5.00pm.

Customer Parking is available on request.

With winter well under way, what better time, to think about giving your wardrobe a boost with a mid-season update.

seasonaL fashion at

orchid

a contemporary boutique, offering a range of designer clothing and accessories...

A visit to Orchid Boutique, provides the perfect stylish antidotes for when the winter weather sets in. Alongside brands such as Joseph Ribkoff, Frank Lyman, Monari, Latte, Viccio, Pause CafĂŠ and Just White, the boutique also offers a selection of handbags and scarves that add that finishing touch to any outfit and statement jewellery pieces that add instant glam to a neutral dress or top.

Whether you are looking for something for a particular occasion, or are in need of a quick fashion-fix, customer service is at the heart of Orchid.

Parking is available and refreshments are on offer, as customers are encouraged to spend as long as they like, browsing and trying on, ensuring their shopping experience is an enjoyable one.

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Top Right: Barbour Langdale gilet is a modern and stylish country fleece design. £74.95.

Top Left: Dubarry Longford Boots offer everything you’d expect from a Dubarry boot: waterproof, breathable and comfortable to wear.

Made from Dubarry’s luxurious water resistant DryFast-DrySoft™ Leathers, and with a Gore-Tex® liner to ensure it is waterproof and breathable. An attractive and feminine boot with the added buckle detail and the way the leather seam curves up towards the calf; £335.

Bottom Right: Dress to perform with confidence and style in Tredstep's Symphony Rosa Jodhpurs, combined with Tredstep Evolution fabric redefines traditional standards, resulting in a pair of beautifully balanced jodhpurs that are classically styled high performance breeches and in-tune with the movement of the horse and rider.

Thomas Bell

Country Store Based at Brigg in North Lincolnshire, Thomas Bell Country Store is the region’s largest country store stockings some of the most upmarket and quality equestrian, country, and shooting clothing and accessories. Boasting an impressive range of quality country, footwear and equestrian collections, the store stocks a collection of fantastic brands such as Barbour, Musto, Dubarry, Tredstep, Joules and many more.

There are two things a horse rider needs from a jacket: to keep you dry and be hardwearing to endure stable life. In 1964 when Musto was founded by Olympic Silver medallist Keith Musto, his aim was to develop product which would keep sailors warm and comfortable out at sea, while being able to sustain vigorous activity on board.

Musto has transferred this sailing knowledge into an equestrian range to offer clothing ideal for rider needs. Utilising the tried and tested BR1 fabric, the Canter Jacket (pictured right) is waterproof, breathable and hardwearing to withstand gruelling demands in and out of the saddle.

Bottom Left: Women's Barbour British Waterways Reiver Bag. An iconic ‘Reiver’ style shoulder bag, compact and versatile in water repellent coated cotton with a real leather trim. Embossed leather Barbour branded badge plus Julie Dodsworth; £89.95.

Thomas Bell is also proud to supply a large range of pet & animal feeds, wild bird feed and comprehensive range of equestrian supplies.

Thomas Bell has been trading since 1878, times have changed but our commitment to bring you the highest quality products remains the same. So, when it comes to pets, farming, equestrian, country clothing and footwear trust tradition.

Keen to look after their customers, Thomas Bell Country Store offer loyalty card holders exclusive special offers and money off opportunities throughout the year, including weekend spectaculars with lots of exclusive deals.

To keep up to date visit the Thomas Bell Facebook page, follow them on twitter, contact 01652 600690 or visit www.thomasbellcountrystore.co.uk

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Bo peep Boutique

our first delivery of fabulous frugi is now in stock 'It's the little things that make the biggest difference... Frugi baby clothes are always carefully designed to make life easier for parents and their babies. Babygrows have integral scratch mitts, trousers roll-up to give room for growing, and jumpers are reversible so they can be worn inside out or outside in. It's all part of what we call 'two-way design' and it helps ensure that the children can grow with their clothes, and wear them for a little bit longer!'

We are know taking deliveries of our back to school range of coats and shoes with boys coats from ÂŁ20 and a 15% discount when purchasing girls coats at the same time as their Lelli Kelly school shoes.

For more information on the Brands that Bo Peep Boutique stock please go to www.bopeepboutique.co.uk

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- FASHION -

perSONAl moments Create your own personal moments with the latest collection from designer Frank Walder, whilst looking stylish, and feeling comfortable...

Words: Ceri Jackson.

Be ready to experience your personal moments whilst wearing the latest collection from designer Frank Walder.

degrade and coated matelassĂŠ as well as classy, fine-thread loden.

Elegance comes from highquality, shimmering fabrics.

Happy times with friends and family, a dinner date or shopping trip with your best friend - an uncomplicated, varied approach to dressing up is the focus.

The Frank Walder label was created in Germany, and represents the changed lifestyle of the new generation of women. They are specialists in smart separates and coordinating styles that can be used for every occasion.

The contours are figure-flattering and feminine with softly flowing fabrics like silk-touch jersey, metallic intarsia knit, knitted

Jackets are the centre point of the collection and stand for decorated

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sportiness with functional details. Finishing with fake leather or fancy wovens, with sporty little Chanel jackets forms the absolute fashion highlight. Lace and printed lace is important, and textured surfaces and cloqués contrast with smooth micro-fibre, batiste or cotton satin. Fake furs, satin or leather piping and coloured flat-locks are just some of the decorative elements featured in the collection.

Clear black and white prints, digital and abstract in combination with ornamental arabesque prints, opulent crystal flower motifs, multi-coloured prints seduce with fascinating colours creating accents, and there is knitwear for every occasion; from feel-good cardigans, printed knit, jacquard knit through to sumptuously shimmering metallic prints.

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Trousers range from sporty five-pockets in premium stretch denim or two-tone washout denim, straight-cut peach skin cotton through to flowing fabrics for comfy slip-on trousers. Skirts have feminine silhouettes and perfectly match the blazers. Differing lengths, mini godets, piping and trendy lace all offer individual solutions for different occasions.

Blouses surprise, featuring elaborate details like frills, flounces or new collar ideas and give the outfits class and elegance, skilfully combining the comfort of jersey fabrics with the blousy look of satin.

With fancy prints the shirts narrate each collection theme like oil-dye shirts and long shirts with new silhouettes, material patches, gathers and new neckline ideas make countless combinations possible.

“We are successful, because we love our target group. These are optimistic women, who are going their own way and who achieve a lot in their life - and we have great respect for them.” Lothar Held, executive director.

The success story behind the brand began with hand-knitted blouses in the idyllic town of Münchberg in the north of Bavaria.

You can be casual, classic or unique in Frank Walder, a collection which inspires women to try something different - and this collection will make sure you have something stylish to wear every time.

The brand makes clothes with an exclusive look that are suitable for every day, special occasions, well designed and and perfectly finished.

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Left: Get ready for winter with these grey hat, scarf & gloves, and comfortable brown jacket. top Right: Light the ďŹ re and keep warm with the patterned brown cardigan, scarf and black tailored trousers.

Above Right: Keep stylishly casual with this patterned black and white top.

Right: Be prepared for a romantic meal with this stylish black jacket.

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opposite: Layer up your look with this long sleeved top and fur gilet. this Page: Sparkle with this embellished cardigan jacket and tailored trousers.

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top: Look stylish whilst out and about with loved ones. Match this green patterned top perfectly with this green jacket. Above: Enjoy a shopping trip with friends wearing comfortable yet chic clothes like this padded jacket and patterned cardigan. Find stockists on their website: www.frankwalder.com/en/.

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- CHrIStmAS treeS -

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Pines & Needles

Choosing the family Christmas tree is one of the better jobs of the season; an enjoyable pursuit for the whole family amid the frenzy of negotiating the high street for gifts and preparing a mountain of vegetables for Christmas dinner. this month, we visit a local country estate for advice on which variety to choose, how to make your tree last, and to ďŹ nd out why choosing a local tree will ensure your decorations adorn the best quality tree possible...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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- CHrIStmAS treeS -

Branch out this winter, and choose a locally grown Christmas tree to decorate this season.

Top: Trees grow an average of one foot each year and are thinned out when they grow too closely together. These examples will be the first to be cut this season.

Above: Trim an inch or two off your tree when you take it home to ensure a good uptake of water.

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The exact origins of Christmas trees are unknown - theories include their use as a Pagan celebration of the winter solstice - but the tradition came to Europe around the 15th century. They were popularised firstly in Germany, then in England from the 1840s by Queen Victoria’s German cousin Prince Albert, after which it was adopted by British households.

Today, over 8,000,000 Christmas trees are sold in an industry worth over £160m.

The two most popular varieties are the Nordmann Fir and Norway Spruce, varieties grown at Doddington Hall, the country estate we visited to see how this year’s trees are faring.

It’s somewhat deflating to visit a Christmas tree farm in bright sunshine and good weather - but hoping for a blanketing of

snow in September is perhaps on the optimistic side! The scent of Norway Spruce was prevalent in the air as foresters Hari Limbu, David Logan and Ross McKenzie showed us around. The planting of some two or three thousand trees takes place in March, and the trees grow at, roughly, a foot each year.

The most popular size for a tree, nationally, is 6ft, with our area a little above the national average. Whilst the more heavily scented but somewhat spiky Norway Spruce was always the preferred variety, in recent years the Nordmann Fir has overtaken it and now accounts for 70% of sales nationally - but a little lower than that in our area - owing to its softer needles and the belief the public holds about it being less likely to drop.

“The spring and summer months see us completing quite a bit of work around the 30 hectare site.” says David. “We keep as much of the forest floor as clear as possible, because if the grasses grow and choke the lower branches, they stop growing.”

“Nordmanns account for 70% of tree sales thanks to their softness and needle retention...”

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- CHrIStmAS treeS -

Varieties of

Tree

Nordmann Firs now account for around 70% of all trees sold, but you could opt for something more unusual...

Norway Spruce A traditional favourite but needle retention is poor without proper care. Needles aren’t very soft, but it has a lovely traditional smell.

Nordmann Fir

“Fresh trees require a litre of water a day.

Add sugar to the water to help retain needles.”

Each year, the team shapes the trees with shears two or three times to ensure even branches all the way around. They also ‘crimp’ the top branch, pinching it to impede the flow of nutrients into the vertical branch to stop it becoming too tall, which would result in a sparse-looking tree at the top.

Choose your tree from a local farm, farm shop or garden centre, rather than a DIY store, and expect to pay around £20-£25 for a 6ft tree, £40 for one of around 9ft, and perhaps a £10 premium for a Nordmann Fir of ‘premium’ variety.

Only five percent of the trees sold are dug up with roots intact; most are sawn down, Above: The crimp marks here ensure the single vertical branch at the top of the tree doesn’t grow too tall.

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but how do you keep your tree looking fresh and lustrous all winter long?

Now the most popular Christmas tree in the UK. Good at retaining their soft dark green needles, perfect for the whole family to decorate.

“Definitely don’t situate them near to draughts, fireplaces or radiators.” says David.

Scots Pine

“Also, we recommend that you saw an inch or two off the bottom of the branch when you get it home. This gives it a fresh stump to take in as much water as possible.”

A fresh Christmas tree requires around a litre of water, and adding sugar to the water is also known to help with needle preservation.

Choosing a suitable stand - one that holds plenty of water - will also help. Don’t scrimp on the stand; a slightly more expensive one with a ratchet action, that you pump with your foot, will enable you to straighten your tree easily without having to crawl underneath it. Some stands even have ‘water now’ indicators to take the guesswork out of keeping your tree healthy.

“Hari cuts down around 400 trees a day in the season.” says David. “It’s quite a task but the joy we get when people come to pick one out makes it all worth it!” www.doddingtonhall.com.

traditionally one of the most common trees - nice aroma, but with stiff dark needles; it’s been supplanted by the Nordmann.

Noble Fir Stiffer and shorter branches, great for heavier decorations. extremely aromatic with a deep rich colour.

Colorado White An unusual variety, but pretty with a light green/blue hue.

Nice shape, good aroma and excellent needle retention.

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- ChrISTmaS CounTdoWn -

Fantastic

Gift Ideas Santa Claus is coming to town with a Christmas sleigh full of fantastic presents (with a little help from some high quality local businesses too...!)

Image: The White Company, www.thewhitecompany.com.

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Tumble and Hide harris tweed bag, £95. Bolla Bags, purse £29.95, bag £69.95. Dansk Smykkekunst necklace, £34.95, Glass bottles

by Parlame £9.95 to £29.95, Lady figure by Sia Home Fashion, £37.50 by Gracegentle.

01636 611933, www.gracegentle.co.uk.

White Owl Book Ends, £22, Wine Coolers start from £45.

01636 822000, www.elizabethandstevens.com.

Kitchen Aid Corded Hand Blender; £119, 01507 608787, www.chilli pepperscookshop.com.

Barbour Chevening Quilted Wax Parka Jacket, £329.00 from Thomas Bell. 01652 600690, www.thomasbellcountrystore.co.uk.

Joules Fox Set, Baking Gift Set, Jean Paul Gaultier Perfume Gift Set and JOOP! Jump Gift Set, all from Oldrids.

01205 361251, www.oldrids.co.uk.

Selection of Candles, from £17.

Slipper Socks Set, £10 and Owl sock shoes, £12. Heyland & Whittle Lavender set, £4.99, all from Marshalls Yard, 01427 810706, www.marshallsyard.co.uk

Selection of Cushions featuring dogs, 18 in x 18 in, £39 each from Aitch Interiors 01522 810961, www.aitchinteriors.co.uk.

Vivienne Westwood Brooch from Maudes Jewellers; £135.

01205 367959, www.lovelinks-jewellery.com.

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- local cHRISTMaS evenTS -

Local Events and Markets at

Christmas Time There’s nothing better than the feeling you receive when you give someone the perfect gift at christmas. We have dates for your diary to make sure you’ve plenty of time to browse local markets and events...

Lincolnshire Showground Events • Big Craft Event Join Lincolnshire Showground on Sunday 16th November from 10am to 4pm, when Lincoln's Big Craft Event returns!

Discover quality local and regional crafters presenting their own work, as well as unique and beautiful gifts. Explore the joy in hand-made items, vintage or redundant goods.

Many crafters will be demonstrating their skills, and while browsing, you can enjoy atmospheric and enchanting Christmas carols sung by members of the talented Lincoln Choral Society. Choose the perfect gift, be inspired and support artisan skills. £2.50 per person, free for under 16's.

• Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fayre Visit one of the biggest and best Food and Gift fayres of the festive season on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. It’s the perfect place to find gifts to fill stocking and stomachs.

As well as all the stalls and samples to browse, there will be demonstrations on crafts and cookery. So if you’re lacking Christmas cheer don’t miss the Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fayre.

This is an indoor event, with free parking. £6 standard entry, £5 advance, free for under 16's.

For more information call Lincolnshire Showground, on 01522 522900. You can also visit their website at: www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

Four Seasons Christmas Fayre Make sure you visit Four Seasons Garden Centre’s 3rd annual Christmas Craft Fayre on Saturday 22nd to Sunday 23rd November, where they will be celebrating the best produce from our talented local crafters. Santa arrives on his sleigh on Saturday 29th November at 11am, and will be there every weekend in December until the 21st. They will also have a selection of real Christmas trees available from the 29th November.

Gainsborough Old Hall Craft Fayre

For more information call 01529 304970 or visit www.fourseasonsgardencentre.co.uk.

For more information call Gainsborough Old Hall on 01522 782040 or visit www.gainsborougholdhall.com.

Stoke Rochford Victorian Christmas Market

Doddington Hall Christmas Decorations

On Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November at Stoke Rochford Hall, you can browse an array of gifts for Christmas from unique stalls selling hand-crafted and unusual items from 10am to 6pm. See their own ‘Green’ Father Christmas and the World famous ‘Palace of Curiosities’ – a travelling museum of strange and intriguing items from around the world. Make sure you have a ride in the horse drawn Victorian omnibus around the grounds. Rides are every 20 minutes between 10am and 4pm each day – £4.50 per person. Pre booking is advised although booking on the day will be available. Admission to the Christmas Market s free of charge.

Join Rachel and Alison for this seasonal course on Tuesday 2nd December, 10am to 4pm, and learn to make a range of willow decorations like hearts and simple wreaths and how to decorate them using seasonal material from the garden. Perfect for beginners. £89 p/person.

For more information call Stoke Rochford Hall on 01476 530337 or visit www.stokerochfordhall.co.uk.

The punch will be flowing, the fires glowing and the musicians blowing as a whole host of the region’s most talented artists and crafters unveil their handiwork on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. Admission is only £1.

For more information call Catkin 01400 272344 or visit www.catkinflowers.co.uk.

Lincoln Christmas Market From Thursday 4th to Sunday 7th December, visit Lincoln’s Christmas Market. Enjoy cultural entertainment and stroll around over 200 stalls nestled with in the medieval square and surrounding area. Lincoln is the perfect place to visit over the festive period - take a trip back through time and stroll along the cobbles the

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“Christmas markets & events are great for finding unique gifts!” cultural quarter of the city. Lincoln Christmas Market has developed dramatically since it began with just 11 stalls, and gives visitors and residents a truly festive experience, with a traditional, high quality event for all the family.

Free admission.

For more information please visit Lincoln Christmas Market’s website at www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk.

Louth Christmas Craft Market Enjoy Louth’s Christmas craft market on Sunday 7th December, 10am to 4pm. 90% of the traders are from Lincolnshire and this is seen as vital for the local economy. The event is mainly for adults but there is also something for the children too. Come along and find special, individual gifts that you won't find in the big high street stores. The majority of Louth's shops will be open. You can also find Santa in his grotto within the New Indoor Market Hall. Admission is free.

For more information please visit the Love Louth website at www.lovelouth.co.uk.

Crafts for Christmas at Burghley House Thursday 27th to Sunday 30th November.

Opening times: 9am to 5pm.

Discover enjoyable Christmas shopping at Burghley House, with talented makers and designers from all over the UK together with small individual firms producing top quality products. Find special presents - the perfect place to work your way enjoyably through your Christmas list. Indulge in stunning fashions and accessories, bags and belts, jewellery, and soaps and skincare. Decorate your home and table with candles, platters, bowls and tasty treats.

Visit the Specialist Food area, brimming with cakes, wines, cheeses and meats. Add that extra spice with olives, dips, chutneys and preserves.

For more information call 01428 684494.

Grimsby’s Big Christmas Event On Thursday 13th and Friday 14th November, visit a festive celebration with live entertainment and shopping galore at Grimsby’s Top Town Market from 10am to 4pm. There will be a Santa parade with real reindeer, appearances from Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom, a reindeer petting area, Christmas Food Market, Lincs FM stage with live music and commentary, arts and crafts fayre, street entertainment, late-night shopping and choir singing around the Christmas tree.

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- Panorama -

Lancs Over Lincoln Last month The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s Avro Lancaster flew side-by-side with The Battle Of Britain Memorial Flights Lancaster in a momentus and historical event over the skies of Lincolnshire.

For the first time in over 50 years, a pair of these iconic aircraft have graced the skies over the UK. This piece of digital art is James Biggadike’s tribute to all of those brave men who flew the Lancaster Bomber.

“Really, it had to be set against the most famous landmark in ‘Bomber Country’ as the sun goes down - the City of Lincoln and the Cathedral.”

“Lets not forget of course the huge amount of hard work that had to be put in by the people at the CWHM to make the epic flight across the Atlantic as well as the support of the BBMF and all the ‘Lanc fans who have enjoyed a truly memorable summer of flying.”

James created this beautiful photograph by merging three different images together - the Lincoln landscape, sunset and the two Lancasters.

To see more of James’s work please visit www.flickr.com/people/jb4photography. You can purchase of a copy of this photograph by calling James on 07714 284256 or email jb4photography@hotmail.co.uk. about the Photographer: James Biggadike is an amateur photographer and aviation enthusiast.

You can see his images at: www.flickr.com/people/jb4photography.

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To view and purchase photographs from The event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

Lincolnshire Mercedes Dealers

Celebrate New C-Class Arrival...

Lincolnshire’s Mercedes Benz dealerships celebrated the arrival of the brand’s new C-Class executive saloon recently by inviting VIPs to their showrooms in Boston, Lincoln and Grimsby to officially unveil the car.

Alex McGuire of Listers unveiled the car and gave a short speech on its new features, whilst the firm’s sophisticated AMG F1 simulator gave visitors the opportunity to witness the power and performance of its racing cars.

The new model is on sale now and offers better economy, more standard equipment and innovative safety features compared to the outgoing model, with prices rising to £67,295 for its C63AMG variant.

Photographs: Rob Davis.

Feature your event in our magazine.

Call 01529 469977 and speak to our events desk...

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Purchase photographs from this event online. visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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A Tradition of Dignity

and Total Care lincolnshire’s Carr Funeral Service has been arranging Funerals with dignity and Care for over a century. david richardson addresses a subject that is still taboo to many, but which involves providing a service that offers a great source of comfort when Words & Images: Rob Davis. we lose a loved one...

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It’s a taboo subject, but one which affects us all at some point during our lives. The loss of a loved one is without doubt, a terrible experience. However, the grief and sadness at such a time can be mitigated with a personalised funeral that celebrates their life.

This can often best be achieved with the help of an experienced Funeral Director, such as Boston’s Carr Funeral Service, who pride themselves on offering a service, with Dignity and Care.

The poet John Donne wrote that ‘he who has no time to mourn has no time to mend.’

Carr Funeral Service has been facilitating the process of grieving since 1909, before being taken over by current owner Brian Thornton in 1969.

Still a family owned business today, the firm offers Traditional, Civil or Humanist funeral as well as specialising in ‘green’ or eco funerals. They have a range of vehicles available from modern coachbuilt hearses to horse-drawn carriages, vintage lorry’s and even motorcycle hearses.

“Our business is a mix of people who contact us when a bereavement occurs and require immediate help and advice and those that wish to plan their own funerals, in advance, taking away the worry from their loved ones.

“We are able to provide our services to relatives who have lost a loved one, bringing the deceased into our care, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” says the firm’s David Richardson.

A range of options usually means the cost of a funeral can be matched to suit people’s affordability.

In respect to Funeral Plans, the company offer a bespoke Funeral Planning service, giving people the opportunity to create a Funeral, which will meet the exact needs and requirements. Naturally, as you would expect all Funds are held securely in a Trust Fund, often with Golden Charter.

As members of The National Association of Funeral Directors the firm is regulated by them to ensure that the premises and the care given is of a high standard. Carr Funeral Service also abides by their Code of Practice.

“The loss of a loved one affects people in very different ways, so we tailor our service accordingly...”

As part of the arrangements, choosing a coffin is something that needs to be thought about.

The firm offers many different types of coffin and caskets, such as traditional veneered and solid wood coffins, as well as bamboo, wicker and even cardboard coffins, often preferred by those wanting a ‘green’ funeral.

They also offer a range of colourful coffins, which can be individually designed to reflect the life of the deceased.

Carr Funeral Service always provide a written estimate of the full funeral costs.

They offer a basic funeral for families where funds are limited, to much more elaborate ones and everything else inbetween.

“We find that the loss of a loved one affects people in very different ways, so we tailor our service accordingly, and provide a helpful, dignified service with a sympathetic appreciation for what a relative is going through.” It’s perhaps surprising that few people know the procedure following the loss of a loved one, but with care and support from a company like Carr Funeral Service, the process of healing can be made easier and a relative’s life can be celebrated.

With a ‘Tradition of Dignity and Total Care’, and over a century of provenance, the company really does provide help and support for relatives during a difficult time.

Find Out More: Carr Funeral Service is based on Spilsby Rd, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 9DA Call 01205 311300 or see www.carrfuneralservice.co.uk.

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LE CREUSET • BRABANTIA • BAKEWARE • GARDEN PRODUCTS

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Crosswords CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Test your lateral thinking skills with this month’s Cryptic Crossword. each puzzle has a set of perplexing clues to unravel, and as every lover of logic knows, the frustration is all part of the fun!

ACROSS 1. Finally Condoleezza Rice misled in Massachusetts, USA (7) 5. Perhaps Cook makes 100 next (not 50) with England's opening runs (7) 9. Looks are said to attain their best with small crowns (5) 10. Before starting to darken, skin uses tan to appear like this (3-6) 11. Island gods embraced some Bible characters (10) 12. Conservative backing European Union? Liberal bias, for starters (4) 14. Order me new shirt? It's a deal! (11) 18. It's not surprising the Great Pyramid of Giza has shrunk! (5,6) 21. First male (Adam) had no ma, surprisingly (4) 22. Those ultimately with least struggle? (10) 25. I would back loud form of jazz spreading (9) 26. Dead keen on Renaissance sculpture? (5) 27. Long article on time by nuclear scientists, not about light (7) 28. Hearts — they flutter when hugging man in good shape (7)

DOWN 1. Domestic help to the French couple (2,4) 2. Rubber bridge's finale: king, a spade, over queen (6) 3. A leading banker taken in by lies ain't corrupt or greedy … (10) 4. … returns old savings account for something useful (5) 5. Sentenced prisoner, heartless man indeed (9) 6. Double the victory in Yorkshire? (4) 7. Decided to complete this puzzle again by day (8) 8. Wine and steam, cooking beef and lamb etc (3,5) 13. Broken-hearted over upside-down painting's shapes (10) 15. In the past African rebel hero said "no" (9) 16. Lily Allen's debut EP holds potential (8) 17. Soldier lifts lid off can to store f-f-fuel (8) 19. 5 + 2/3 of 12: maths' core material (6) 20. Uninspired holy man upset God by asking "Why?" (6) 23. On the radio Dame Vera and companion make a killing (5) 24. Hill made from brown earth (4)

DOWN

1. Perform music in the street for money (4) 3. Strikebreaker (8) 8. Pocket (billiards) (4) 9. Yes — adequate (3,5) 11. Stomach-turning (10) 14. Older — superior (6) 15. Formality — give stiffness (6) 17. Sponger (informal) (10) 20. Oversight (8) 21. Try to find (4) 22. Laughable (8) 23. River of northeast England (4)

1. Trade — one's concerns or affairs (8) 2. Bloody — cheerful (8) 4. Ogress who attacks children (Semitic folklore) — Frasier Crane's (ex-)wife (6) 5. Ceremony of installing a monarch (10) 6. Racing toboggan (4) 7. Frame for closing an entrance (4) 10. Extremely comfortable situation (3,2,5) 12. Tedious, hard work (8) 13. Native American people (8) 16. Louvre (anag) — fabric (6) 18. Bowl — golf club (4) 19. Landing stage (4)

CRYPTIC ANSWERS

QUICK ANSWERS

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

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