Lincolnshire Pride September 2021

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WELCOME

W

e can hope. We can dream, and we can keep our fingers crossed. Here’s hoping that as we move into the autumn months, we’ll finally be rid of Covid. We’re all a little battered and bruised from the experience, nerves a little frayed, but there’s scarcely time to reflect because now the work begins rebuilding the country.

This month we’re reflecting on how we all need to support local businesses and we’re finding out how different sectors have coped with the pandemic; adapting, enduring, keeping calm and carrying on.

We’ll also hear from Professor Jonathan Van-Tam for his thoughts on how and why a post-pandemic world will be just a little bit different.

Elsewhere? Well, Sleaford’s Bass Maltings is 120 years old and the buildings are celebrated in a new exhibition at the town’s museum this month. We’re reflecting on the history and the future of the buildings with some help from curator Nigel Ogden.

In addition, we’re speaking with two Lincolnshire siblings who are flying the flag for the county. Sam Atkin represented Team GB in the 10,000m race in Tokyo whilst his sister, Jen Atkin, is the current Miss Great Britain and tells us why she’s determined to change the stereotypes surrounding the role of pageants.

And finally, we’re enjoying local food and drink with a visit to Stamford’s Japanese-fusion restaurant, Hoppi Dorri, and a look at a local cider producer.

Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

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NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across the county. See the latest community artwork now on display in Lincoln.

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WHAT’S ON September’s live events.

HIGHLIGHTS

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CELEBRATING FREEDOM With the relaxation of restrictions what does post-Covid freedom mean for Lincolnshire businesses?

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WINNING TWINS Meet Lincolnshire twins Sam and Jen... one’s an Olympic athlete, the other’s Miss Great Britain!

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ALL ABOUT THE BASS Sleaford Museum celebrates the 120th anniversary of the Bass Maltings, we’ve new and exclusive pictures.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES The best nurseries, schools and colleges from across Lincolnshire.

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DINING OUT AT HOPPI DORRI We’re turning Japanese with a unique pan-Asian dining experience.

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IN-CYDER INFORMATION Autumn refreshment with Guy Williams’ cyder.

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RECIPES & WINE September treats.

HOMES & GARDENS 62

WELCOME HOME A stunning architect-designed property on the market now for £2.75m.

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HOMES Interiors, finishing touches and luxury bespoke kitchens.

LADIES & GENTLEMEN 94

WEDDINGS A selection of the best local wedding venues.

108 FASHION & BEAUTY Stylish tweed for autumn and luxury cosmetics.

AND FINALLY...

122 MOTORS Luxury electric off-roaders.

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Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to homes in the top three council tax bands, which are predominantly worth over £300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content.

The magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents and our in-house distribution team also works hard to hand-deliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs.

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Read Pride Magazine free online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk or by downloading our free iOS and Android App. LEGAL DISCLAIMER

THE PRIDE TEAM

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion.

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Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

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Pride Magazines, Boston Enterprise Centre, Enterprise Way, Boston, Lincs PE21 7TW

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978 www.pridemagazines.co.uk | enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

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NEWS & EVENTS

Welcome to the City of Boston...?

BID TO CREATE LINCOLNSHIRE’S SECOND CITY FOR THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE BOSTON Boston Borough Council is working with partners to develop a bid for the town to obtain City Status as part of a competition launched to celebrate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next year.

Her Majesty the Queen has approved a competition to grant the prestigious and rare civic honour of City Status to a select number of towns and cities in the UK for the first time in a decade. Councils have until December to apply and will be judged on civic pride, heritage and innovation.

Cllr Richard Austin, said: “It’s fantastic news that a civic honours competition is being held. As a Borough we are immensely proud of our history and heritage and following a conversation between Group Leaders on the Council is was decided that a bid should be developed for submission to Government for City Status.”

“The bid will be further developed with partners and submission would be subject to Council approval later in the year. The competition gives us great opportunity to highlight Boston’s heritage

Singing for Bransby EQUINE CHARITY BRANSBY HORSES ACQUIRES SONG RIGHTS TO HIGHLIGHT RESCUE WORK

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and its worldwide connections by showcasing the people and places that make Boston so unique and worthy of such an accolade. Having secured Government investment of £21.9m through the Towns’

Fund; and with a bid underway for a further £20m from the Government’s Levelling Up fund, we expect to see Boston further transform and become an even more popular place to live, work, visit and invest.” n

LINCOLN Bransby Horses have acquired the song rights to You Will Be Found from smash Broadway musical, Dear Evan Hansen as part of their Bransby Big Sing project for 2021.

Tara Stafford-Allen, External Welfare Officer at Bransby Horses and Musical Director at Lincolnshire Vocal Academy (LVA) set up the Bransby Big Sing project to help promote the work of the charity.

Tara encouraged vocal enthusiasts at Bransby Horses, members of the LVA and pupils from Partney Church of England Primary School to get involved in recording the song.

“I listened to the lyrics and they resonated with me.”

“In my role as External Welfare Officer I respond to public concerns about equines reported to be suffering neglect, mistreatment or abandonment – these horses think they’re alone, sometimes they’ve given up, and are in need of a lot of TLC. The song seemed to echo this and describe how the horses must be feeling.” n Those wishing to show their support for this project can make a small donation towards Bransby Horses’ welfare and rescue efforts and can share the video, available at www.bransbyhorses.co.uk.

LINCOLN A second display of community art has been completed on the side of a building on Sincil Bank’s Trollope Street.

Zabou created the first installation, which depicts a young Sir Isaac Newton.

Now, co-founders of Student Housing and creators of the project Harry Conti and Adrian Bishop have overseen the completion of a second a mural of the Lincoln Star variety of clematis with the words ‘shine bright.’

Artist Sophie Mess has showcased work all over the world and chose a flower first created in 1950 by Lincoln botanist Walter Pennell as her inspiration.

“We hope that the project will galvanise the community, and inspire residents to contribute their artworks, to make Sincil Bank locally respected, brighter, and a more interesting place to live and work!” say Harry and Adrian. n www.sincilbankartproject.co.uk.

Rewildling in Lincoln PROJECTS AROUND LINCOLN HAVE SEEN BEES, BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES MAKING THEIR HOME IN LINCOLN

SCUNTHORPE The 20-21 Arts Centre in Scunthorpe has teamed up with artist Luke Jerram to create Of Earth and Sky, a large scale art project which will form a sculpture trail in August and September.

North Lincolnshire residents are invited to write a poem which will be transformed into one of 25 large and visually striking displays.

The project is part of a programme of events celebrating the visual arts centre’s 20th anniversary. n See www.northlincs.gov.uk.

LINCOLN The City of Lincoln Council has launched a number of ‘rewilding’ initiatives to support biodiversity and enable the natural environments in the city to support native wildlife.

Wildflowers will be allowed to flourish at King George’s Field, Woodfield Avenue, Ropewalk and on Doddington Road in addition to 11 pilot project locations around the city.

Summer bedding plants will also be grown in the locations, and further wildflowers area will be created at Hartsholme and Boultham country parks, allowing bees, birds & butterflies to make the most of Lincoln. n See www.lincoln.gov.uk.

LOCAL

230,000,000

COMMUNITY ART IN THE CITY OF LINCOLN

‘Of Earth and Sky’ is a unique path to poetry...

NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE Happy birthday to The Humber Bridge! The landmark opened in 1981 and having just celebrated its 40th anniversary, it’s been calculated that over 230,000,000 vehicles have used it throughout its life with around 30,000 vehicles now crossing it each day! n

Sincil Bank Art Project

NEWS In Brief SLEAFORD x

Nominate a champion in your local community Nominations are now being accepted for North Kesteven District Council’s Community Champion Awards.

A brand new Contribution to Climate Action Award and a Coronavirus Response Award take the total number of categories to 14. The other categories are: young achiever; good neighbour; community business, community spirit, longstanding contribution to a particular group or organisation and contributions made to arts and culture, sports, health and wellbeing, a better environment and safer communities awards. n To make a nomination, visit www.NK awards.org.

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YOUR HOME, OUR VISION

3-4 BEDROOM FAMILY HOMES AT COWLEY PARK Based in Donington, Lincolnshire, Cowley Park is a flagship development brought to you by Ashwood Homes.

3-4 bedroom family homes now released from £275,000-£305,000 ready to move in this Autumn.

Donington is a popular village location with plenty of amenities and good local schools. The development is well situated with good road links to major towns and cities such as Boston, Grantham, Spalding and Sleaford.

Our high specification offers a flooring package as standard with integrated kitchen appliances and a full choice of tiles, kitchen units and flooring.

Cowley Park, Donington, Lincolnshire PE11 4TR Showhomes open Thursday to Monday 10-5pm info@ashwoodhomes.co or www.ashwoodhomes.co or call 01406 490590

01406 490590 • www.ashwoodhomes.co 1 GOODISON ROAD, LINCS GATEWAY BUSINESS PARK, SPALDING, PE12 6FY Please Note: Internal photographs reflect the typical style and finish of properties, but exact specifications and room layouts may vary according to individual plot and development. Help to Buy terms and conditions may apply, please call for further details.

The Maltings, Swineshead £375,000

Spilsby Road, Boston

A beautiful, Grade Two Listed former malthouse situated in the village of Swineshead with accommodation arranged over three storeys to include dining kitchen, three double bedrooms, first floor sitting room, bathroom and cloakroom. This totally unique property has been tastefully converted and also benefits from a triple garage, walled courtyard garden and kitchen garden and is offered with no onward chain.

This four double bedroom period property offers substantial accommodation over three floors and includes ample parking and an extensive rear garden.

Being situated on sought-after Spilsby Road the property is within walking distance of the town amenities, Primary schools and Boston High School.

£325,000

White House Lane, Fishtoft £395,000

Chapel Road, Old Leake

A rare opportunity to purchase one of these spacious four bedroom family homes in the sought after village of Fishtoft.

Conveniently situated for local schools, the property is offered with no onward chain and comprises two reception rooms, four double bedrooms and an en-suite to the master. Double garage and ample parking for many vehicles.

This four bedroom detached property has been totally renovated and comprises two bedrooms and a shower room to the ground floor and two bedrooms, en-suite and bathroom to the first floor. There is also extensive parking, large garden and a double garage and the property is offered with no onward chain.

£389,000

Witham Bank West, Boston Guide Price £275,000-£285,000 Arranged over three storeys, the property enjoys a picturesque waterfront location and versatile living space.

With four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two kitchens, plus a double garage the property may prove particularly suitable for those working from home, or needing an annex.

Brothertoft, Boston

£475,000

For buyers needing both outside space and storage, this four bedroom house features a garden extending to just under half an acre and a large 29' brick built garage with an additional 34' long room to the rear - ideal as a workshop, store, or to convert into a home office for anyone requiring the ability to work from home.

CEDAR HOUSE Middlegate Road West | Frampton | Lincolnshire | PE20 1BX

• An Exceptional Architect Designed Mansion Located in 2.7 acres of Landscaped Gardens • Superb Family Residence Offering 8 Bedrooms, 7 Bathrooms FOR SALE • Excellent Entertaining Facilities including 50ft Kitchen/Living Area • Heated Indoor Swimming Pool with Gymnasium FREEHOLD WITH • Atria Games Room with Private Seating Area and Hot Tub VACANT POSSESSION • Sunken Croquet Lawn and Garden Room with Barbecue • Secluded Lake Overlooked by Deck and Marquee Lawn Subject To Contract • Garaging for Over 6 Vehicles and Parking for Over 30 Vehicles

£2.75 Million

THE LATTICES 49 Sibsey Road | Boston | Lincolnshire | PE21 9QY

• Impressive 4 Bedroomed Detached House Set in 0.4 Acres of Mature Gardens • Characterful House of Architectural Interest Including Spiral Staircase • 2 Bathrooms, 2 Principal Reception Rooms, Large Kitchen, Pantry, Garden Room • Integral Tandem Garage/Workshop • Desirable Location, Close to Pilgrim Hospital

FOR SALE FREEHOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION

£495,000 Subject To Contract NO ONWARD CHAIN

THE WILLOWS Gold Fen Bank | Wrangle | Boston | Lincolnshire | PE22 9BG

• Exceptional Detached House with 15 acres and over 7,000sqft of Agricultural Buildings • Modernised House with 4/5 Reception Rooms, Large Modern Kitchen/Diner, 4 Bedrooms • Integrated Appliances, Kitchen Island, Hot Tap, Pop Up Power and USB Points FOR SALE • Integral Double Garage, Underfloor Heating, Garden Room FREEHOLD WITH • Set in 2 Acres of Formal Gardens with 1/3 of an Acre Lake VACANT POSSESSION • Adjoining Agricultural Yard Extending to 0.63 Acres, 0.25 Hectares • Over 680sqm, 7,300sqft of Steel Framed Agricultural Buildings • Adjoining Fields of Grade 1 Land Totalling Another 11.75 Acres Approx Subject To Contract

£875,000

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LIFE AFTER COVID

BUSINESS as USUAL? What does freedom mean?

What will life be like in a post-Covid era and will it be business as usual for local companies?

Let’s try to find out...

Words: Rob Davis.

We’ll be back to celebrate the best of Lincolnshire in 2022!

The Lincolnshire Show will return in 2022, bigger and better than ever...

“Safety has to come first,” says Gemma King of the Lincolnshire Showground.

“Although it was a major blow for the showground not to hold the Lincolnshire Show again this year, we are proud to be hosting some amazing outdoor events this summer now restrictions have been lifted, including our own event LincsFest taking place on Sunday 15th August.”

“It has been a long 18-months for us but the wellbeing of our visitors is paramount and we are looking forward to bringing people back for safe events now that we are able to do so.”

“Looking ahead to 2022, our calendar of events is filling up and we are excited to be planning for the Lincolnshire Show which will take place on 22nd & 23rd June.” www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

Gardens and business... both are growing well!

Lockdown has seen us spend more time in the garden, and Dobbies is growing just as well...

Covid has shown us how important our gardens are, and the availability of really good local garden centres has been really important.

The first lockdown was probably longer than we expected and it was certainly very warm.

Many retreated into their gardens which was great for our collective mental health.

acquired and opened in April, securing the centre’s future for in excess of 80 staff.

Footfall has been reduced at garden centres this year, because of the need to keep employees and customers safe, but it means they’ve been able to complete improvement work which is noisy, messy or otherwise disruptive. Now Dobbies Garden Centre has long recognised Dobbies is open again, it can show off a the importance of the garden, and since the new-look centre providing the best experience business was established in 1865, it for customers, and the best range of has grown to include 73 centres. products from core gardening items and plants to quality furniture, One of the newest additions barbecues and everything you to the Dobbies family is in need to enjoy your garden in Boston, the site formerly late summer and Autumn. known as Johnsons www.dobbies.com.

Garden Centre which was Having been a casualty of Covid in

Looking Ahead to 2022

Big skies and rural properties, please!

Claire and her team are busy thanks to a strong demand for local property...

Home is where the heart is. And the dog, of course! Claire Fairweather is an estate agent in Boston. Whilst Annie the labrador has been largely unperturbed by the last 12 months, Claire and the Fairweathers team have found themselves very busy indeed after all that has happened in the world during the pandemic.

“We can hardly believe the impact the first lockdown had on the housing market,” she says. “Buyers from towns and cities all over the country desperately searched for a change of lifestyle in areas like Lincolnshire... and let’s face it, who can blame them?”

“This will have been the busiest year we can ever remember and despite the stamp duty

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2021, The Lincolnshire Show will be held on Wednesday 22nd & Thursday 23rd June 2022.

The Burghley Horse Trials takes place from 1st-4th September 2022.

holiday and furlough coming to an end, demand for rural properties continues.

One of the nicer things to come from this, for me, is seeing buyers and sellers recognise the importance of being closer to family now; finding properties that can accommodate older relatives, or places to work more hours from home and fewer in the office. There’s also increased demand for larger gardens, for a new-found love of gardening and growing their own vegetables, too!”

“After a time when morale seemed to be at an all-time low, it feels as if we’re reminded of what we may sometimes take for granted... what everyone else is moving here to enjoy!” www.fairweather-estateagents.co.uk

From academic anonymity to his new-found status as a national hero.

Professor Jonathan Van-Tam is the people’s scientist and a level-headed voice of reason during Covid. Born and raised in Boston, the Professor still lives in the county and enjoys nothing more than cheering on his beloved Boston United from the terraces...

When Britain needed a hero Professor Jonathan Van-Tam stepped up to the role and, overnight, he was thrust into televised press briefings and appearances alongside the Prime Minister. There’s a Jonathan Van-Tam Appreciation Society, myriad internet memes praising his levelheadedness and his fondness for metaphors... you can even fill your wardrobe with t-shirts that have the great man on them. Professor Van-Tam also beat Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey by five places in Grazia magazine’s ‘chart of lust.’

It must all have been a bit surreal for a man who was appointed Deputy Chief Medical Officer in October 2017 thanks to his academic interest in infectious diseases and especially strains of influenza.

“I understand there are memes and songs about me which have gone viral, but I’ve been more occupied dealing with other things that have gone viral this year.”

“My job is to be honest, objective and (as I see it) to speak the truth to power, and that’s an approach which has served me well. I’m not daft though; I recognise that there’s going to be an economic cost to society following the pandemic.”

“The government was ultimately faced with the unenviable decision of harming the economy to save lives. That was never going to be an easy path to take.”

“I don’t believe any government anywhere in the world has found this easy.”

Right: Professor Jonathan Van-Tam was appointed Deputy Chief Medical Officer in October 2017.

“I hope the worst is behind us but I think it’s quite possible that we’re going to have one or two bumpy periods in the autumn and in the winter, not only through Covid, but also through flu and other respiratory viruses as well.”

Professor Van-Tam cut the ribbon of the new unit and thanked everyone for their ongoing support: “It is fantastic to see this happening, with this high-tech and cutting edge facility which will very much put you on the map.”

Last month Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, has taken time out of his busy schedule to officially open a new state-ofthe-art £4.5 million unit at Lincoln County Hospital.

“Thank you to all staff at the hospital, as a specialist respiratory team you have been very much on the frontline of this for 18 months and the pandemic is not over yet.”

The unit has been designed with 10 side rooms, all equipped with high-tech video technology and monitoring equipment.

It means the team will be able to provide patients with non-invasive ventilation and other specialist respiratory treatments.

Meanwhile, as the rest of us recognise that Jonathan Van-Tam’s work has shortened the pandemic and saved lives, the academic will return to teaching in Nottingham and enjoying the victories of his beloved Boston United this Autumn, having guided us through a major health crisis with good humour and a few great metaphors. n 19

We’re all going on a (Great British) holiday...!

Staycation market is strong, says local luxury accommodation provider Barefoot Retreat Few of us have been keen to travel recently, so the national travel and tourism market is doing rather well, says Georgia Vatter of Barefoot Retreats.

“It has been our priority to ensure all our guests have felt safe, comfortable and clearly informed throughout the pandemic, as a result we are thrilled that the Barefoot Retreats team is back doing what it does best in creating unique and memorable holiday experiences for all our guests.”

“It is a pleasure to see our guests enjoying all of the delights that the picturesque North Norfolk Coast has to offer whilst relaxing in a Barefoot Retreats luxury holiday home.” n 01485 512245, www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

“Covid will leave a legacy in all of our lives. I hope though it will also leave us with a reminder of the kindness and support people have shown to others...”

Martin Hill has been a county councillor since 1993 and has led Lincolnshire County Council since 2005.

This, however, has been an unprecedented time, and one that Martin recognises it will still take a while to recover from.

“Covid will leave a legacy in all of our lives so lifting restrictions should ensure that the negative impacts start to come to an end. I hope too that it can leave us with a reminder of the kindness people have shown to others, the support given to local businesses when they've needed it most and our resilience to get through these difficult times.”

“We should all continue to be careful as individuals to help prevent this disease spreading but we need to face the reality this cannot be at the on-going cost of livelihoods, mental health and education.

We need to move to a phase where we can manage Covid in a sensible way and start to restore the county’s businesses.” n

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Top: Mr Binnacle in Docking is one of Barefoot Retreats’ newest luxury self-catering offerings in North Norfolk.

Above: Martin Hill is leader of Lincolnshire County Council.

Raise a glass to support hotels, pubs and restaurants Few industries have had a more challenging time than those in the hospitality sector...

Attend Nicky Pattinson’s post-Covid business masterclasses Free day-long event for businesses who are emerging from the Covid pandemic...

Lincolnshire businesses are being invited to sign up for a free day-long event that will help them emerge from Covid stronger than ever.

‘Renew’ is a series of workshops and networking sessions covering subjects that will support the growth of businesses locally and help them address the challenge of the post-Covid economy.

Great ingenuity often follows great challenges and few industries have had to work as hard to overcome Covid than hospitality. Emma Brealey is Managing Director of Woodhall Spa’s Edwardian Petwood Hotel.

“It’s been a difficult time for the sector, and nobody could claim that it’s been easy, but it has also made me glad for the fact that I lead a really good team,” she says. “And to say we’ve kept busy is an understatement.”

“A hotel without guests just doesn’t have the same warmth and feel, but having fewer people around does make it much easier to get messy, noisy or otherwise disruptive jobs out of the way. We’ve at least been able to make good progress with refurbishing a number of our bathrooms, bedrooms, and with redecorating our communal areas.”

“We’ve been able to complete work on our kitchen, too, replacing fittings and putting in a new floor.”

“It would have been a real headache to do that as we work around breakfast service, lunch and dinner, plus our weddings and special event catering.”

“A really big positive is how well-loved and how well-thought of we’ve found ourselves.

The messages of support have made us feel really valued and I think the industry has seen wheat separated from chaff in terms of good employers; those who treat their staff well have retained them.”

“The team, themselves have really missed each other and there was a real sense of camaraderie and relief when we could all be together again. We’ve new menus for autumn, lots of keen diners ready to enjoy meeting up with friends again, plus a team which is ready to put all of their care and effort into ensuring our guests continue to be happy and well-looked after.” n 01526 352411, www.petwood.co.uk.

Topics will include the launch of Lincolnshire’s Economic Growth Renew Plan, a presentation on the recent Freeports announcement and what it means for the region.

There will also be an in-depth session on skills and employability.

Inspirational entrepreneur Nicky Pattinson will be a keynote speaker at the event, promising to help businesses renew by growing their engagement and increasing turnover.

Nicky is a former £2m a year market trader who delivers motivational masterclasses that she claims have helped triple turnover for everyone from software companies to hotels.

As well as a networking lunch there will be an open session where 10 different funding stream advisors will be available to advise delegates. n The day is taking place at Forest Pines Golf Club and Spa in Scunthorpe on Thursday 14th October 2021 and includes coffee breaks and lunch.

See www.northlincs.gov.uk.

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Lifestyle & Interiors now have a new home in Stamford.

Come and visit us soon!

Visit us in our new studio and retail space at

33 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS 01780 754605 • www.hworksdesign.co.uk

IN TE RI OR DE SI G N • C URTAIN S , BLINDS , S OF T F URNI SHIN G S • UPH OL STE RY • LIFE ST YLE

Landlords waiting game continues Jenna Emsley-Fairbrass, senior paralegal in the recoveries team at Wilkin Chapman solicitors explains.

The moratorium on evicting commercial tenants over unpaid rent was due to expire on 30th June but has now been extended for another nine months.

In April last year, we saw the government block legal attempts to evict retail, hospitality and other businesses that had stopped paying rent, to take off the economic pressures caused as a direct result of the pandemic.

The delay in easing lockdown restrictions announced in July presents additional challenges to business. Most will be thinking that the balance has not been struck up correctly between protecting landlords and supporting businesses that are most in need of help and who cannot pay rent due to not being able to trade normally.

Landlords have already voiced their dismay for almost a year and half now and have just had to ‘deal with it’.

Some landlords have not received rent for months and months and they are simply unable to do anything about it.

The latest figures from trade groups UK Hospitality and British Retail Consortium show that there is a combined debt value estimated to be in the region of £5bn in relation to rent arrears. Data from the first quarter of 2021 shows that only 74% of rent was collected by landlords in the 60 days following the end period after tenants were affected by the pandemic.

It appears that we are sat waiting for the rent arrears time bomb to go off and it is left in the lap of landlords to continue to struggle through. It is going to make the end position worse for both landlords and tenants and of course we have those businesses who are sadly taking advantage of this situation even though they are fully capable of paying their rent. Breathing space should be given in the correct circumstances and more discretion is ultimately needed.

Our property recoveries team has developed a fresh strategy in how we continue to support landlords through their ongoing battle.

We can provide a flexible and tailored recovery process with communication

at the heart of our service. We understand the importance for landlords to maintain a relationship with their tenants and that due to the moratorium, we need to take a fair approach and work together to reach a solution that is agreeable for both parties.

For further information on how we can help you, contact Jenna EmsleyFairbrass on 01472 253939, email jenna.emsley-fairbrass@ wilkinchapman.co.uk or visit wilkinchapman.co.uk

MISS GREAT BRITAIN AND THE OLYMPIAN

FROM HERE to

ANYWHERE YOU WANT Two super-siblings are putting the Great in Great Grimsby, demonstrating that with determination – and strength of spirit – you can achieve anything you set your mind to…

Words: Rob Davis.

it’s something we laugh about now. When I was making changes to my life, he was so incredibly proud, so supportive and so encouraging. He knew it was hard and he really helped me to stay focused.”

IT’S 31ST JULY, just before half twelve.

The Atkin family are watching the Olympics taking place in Japan from the comfort of their sofa, in the village of Laceby near Grimsby which, incidentally, is about 5,814 miles away from the Olympic village.

“When I lost the weight, it didn’t just change my body, it changed my perspective on life.

It made me realise that with confidence and motivation you really can achieve anything you set your mind to. It sounds dramatic but it was like I’d been given fresh chance to take my life in the direction I wanted it to go, so I started to get out in the community taking up volunteer work and helping out local charities.”

They’re rather more invested than most viewers in proceedings, as it’s their son or twin-brother Sam who is on the starting blocks, competing with Team GB in the same event in which Sir Mo Farah achieved gold in 2012 and 2016; the 10,000 metre.

As for Sam’s twin sister Jen, she’s also used to representing the country, having competed in Miss England on two occasions and having won Miss Great Britain, too.

As siblings go, the twins are quite the overachievers, but very lovely they both are, too!

“They’re super proud of us both,” says Jen of mum and dad Helen and Bob. “In fact they really don’t get the credit they deserve.

They’ve been so supportive and they’ve taken Sam to so many cross-country events and athletics meetings, cheering him on from the side of the track.”

Jen, meanwhile, found her strength and regained her confidence in 2016 after breaking up with her first love and says the experience motivated her to take control of her life.

“I had always struggled with my weight but lacked to motivation to do anything about it,” she says. “After my relationship ended though, I found a job I really liked and really pushed myself to exercise and make positive changes to my diet. I managed to lose eight stone in weight and soon realised that self-discipline and self-motivation are inextricably linked to self-confidence.”

“My brother has always been amazing, and I did feel like I lived in his shadow a bit, but

“I was scouted to represent my home-town in the Miss Great Grimsby competition in 2017 and achieved second place before reaching the finals of Miss England and winning its sporting round. The following year, I ranked third in the competition and represented the country in China as part of the Miss Global City pageant. Finally, in 2019, I competed to be Miss Great Britain for 2019 and was named winner in February 2020, so I’ve held the title for nearly 17 months now.”

“There’s an unfortunate preconception about pageants; that they’re concerned only about looks and they’re a bit dated in their representation of women, but actually

Main/Above: Sam Atkin is the Olympian who competed in Tokyo’s 10,000m, twin sister Jen is the current holder of the Miss Great Britain title!

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MISS GREAT BRITAIN AND THE OLYMPIAN

they’re very forward thinking and all about body positivity.”

“There are different rounds including one which assesses your contribution to charity, which provided an opportunity to raise money for Alex’s Wish – for which the pageant has raised £14,277 in funds and greater awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – and for Cancer Research UK.”

“We’re living in an age when remarks made on social media can be made very easily and publicly, and they can be very cruel and hurtful. To encourage people to be kind is important. I’ve stretch marks galore and I’m very keen to say to everyone – but especially to girls growing up, doubting themselves – that it’s normal and beautiful to have them.”

“Another round is concerned with how you can use the title to raise positive publicity for the place you live, and there are interviews and congeniality assessments. It’s about being an ambassador for confidence, body positivity and empathy.”

“Of course, the other responsibility of the role is to promote your home town and having grown up with so many lovely memories and with such a great family, I always feel proud to live in Grimsby. In one direction there’s a beach, in the other there’s some really beautiful countryside and there’s a thriving town centre right in the heart of the area.”

“Having been the subject of bullying because of my weight when I was younger, I’m very determined to encourage everyone – but especially younger girls – to know themselves and to accept that they deserve to feel confident and have good self-esteem.”

“I never feel ashamed of where I come from and I feel really lucky to have grown up in the town! Both my brother and I are proud of where we’re from and we each hope that we can use our own experiences to inspire people and raise the profile of our home town!”

Top: Sam and Jen celebrate the best of British in their respective roles as Olympian and Miss Great Britain.

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HISTORY: THE BASS MALTINGS

All About

THE BASS 2021 represents the 120th anniversary of Sleaford’s Bass Maltings site, and in recognition of its heritage and in hope of the site’s future development, Sleaford Museum is this month providing an opportunity to get to know the site better. We spoke to historian and researcher of the museum’s new exhibition, Nigel Ogden, to find out more…

Words & Images: Rob Davis

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THE BASS MALTINGS

>> SOME LANDMARKS are so ubiquitous on our landscapes that they’re almost taken for granted. Naturally some of the big names in Lincolnshire when we look towards the horizon are the Castle and Cathedral, the Humber Bridge, Boston Stump, Tattershall Castle and stately homes like Burghley, Belvoir, Belton and Gunby.

But what about those forgotten landmarks, like Sleaford’s Bass Maltings? For a series of buildings with an industrial purpose at their heart, they’re pretty spectacular not least in their scale, but in the beauty and intricacy of their architecture too.

Right now the site is looking pretty rubbish.

Abandoned in 1959, poorly maintained and having fallen victim to No Entry to vandalism and arson, the buildings have seen better days, but on the 120th anniversary of their construction, Sleaford We were accompanied onto Museum is determined the site by Sleaford’s Aurora Security. Please don’t venture to celebrate their uniqueness onto the Bass Maltings site as of their design and curate it’s extremely dangerous a well-researched, detailed with many hazards and unsafe storeys. history of the site.

The Public

Historian Nigel Ogdan can trace his family’s Sleafordian provenance back about 200 years. After working around the country, he returned to live in the area and began working with the small but perfectly formed Sleaford Museum to research their exhibitions, including their latest one, which will be installed in the museum as Pride goes to press.

“There’s lots of information out there, but more about the history of the buildings,”

says Nigel. “The job of a malthouse worker was commonplace at the time of the buildings’ construction and the buildings served a commercial purpose, so perhaps their significance was underestimated at the time… at least by others, but certainly not

by Herbert Couchman, the site’s architect.”

The Bass Maltings site incorporated the largest floor maltings in the country at the time by some distance; eight malthouses, with six floors each, 260ft long by 60ft wide, able to hold 56 tonnes of barley... the site had a total capacity of 2,700 tonnes at any one time.

The Bass Maltings in Numbers... n Construction began in 1901 and lasted until 1906/7, the architect was Herbert A. Couchman. n Creation of the Maltings cost £350,000 in 1901, the equivalent of £43m today. n The site covers 13.5 acres, the buildings have a frontage of 1,000ft, and a total area of 50,000sq ft. n 15 million bricks were used during the Maltings’ construction, plus 2,000 tonnes of sand/gravel. n The Bass Maltings site comprises eight buildings, each with six storeys and five bays. n The water tower held 40,000 gallons and stands 100ft tall. Each malthouse is 60ft wide. n Over 500 workmen were needed to construct the Maltings, 100 staff worked there from 1907. n The site operated from 1907-1959, but rarely exceeded 50% of its potential operating capacity. n Each employee was given three pints of Bass beer every day as a sort of employees’ bonus! n There were eight foremen’s cottages on the site, two larger and six smaller ones. n Three fires gradually destroyed the Maltings, in 1969, 1976 and 2014. n The Maltings were given a Grade II listing in 1974. HRH Prince Charles visited the site in 2010.

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It was one of the last such buildings in his career, so it was probably a bit of a swan song for him and something he took great pride in. Otherwise though, Couchman was meticulous and energetic and versatile, having been involved in the creation of railways, churches and commercial projects including the Bass Maltings, for Bass, Ratcliff & Gretton of Burton upon Trent for whom he was an architect from 1891.

One of the little-known pieces of information that Nigel uncovered during his research was that Couchman’s second wife was actually born in nearby Ruskington, so the project probably inspired a little personal pride in him too. >>

SLEAFORD

MUSEUM

We’re Sharing Our Stories...

This unique colourful museum is now in its seventh year. Entirely run by volunteers, the display team has worked closely together to present a new exhibition; the story of the Bass Maltings.

“Thanks to our front-of-house support staff and the other eight members of the committee, the museum will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout autumn.

Previous exhibitions of Sleaford’s fascinating history have included displays of the Lee & Green Bottling Factory, Charles Sharpe & Co Seeds, Rauceby Hospital to mention a few, plus numerous smaller cabinet- based exhibitions such as the Picturedrome centenary.

Other groups exhibit, for example, archaeological finds and both national and local events are commemorated too, such as the Queen’s Jubilee, the RAF Centenary and Remembrance Sunday. The large picture window always has a stunning display linked to the exhibition’s story inside the museum or it is seasonal such as a Christmas window.

“We do not charge for entry but welcome any donation or sponsorship of an exhibition.

We can provide speakers to liaise with schools, groups and clubs, and memory boxes for residential homes.” n Further information including past exhibitions and contact details are on our website at www.sleaford museum.org.uk.

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Lincolnshire Steam Engines >> The company began looking for a site in the 1880s and were interested in Sleaford as there was a natural spring on the site providing water, plus an abundant supply of barley from nearby farms and a good railway link in the town – the town’s railway station was constructed in 1857 – and rail links were much improved at the time.

Work on the Bass Maltings’ construction began in 1901 and lasted until 1907. The site spanned 13 acres and comprised eight malthouses – 16 were originally planned – each with five bays and six storeys. Inside were steeping tanks and germination floors which workers raked over manually.

At the centre of the Maltings was a water tower to the front of the site and two kilns plus two engines to pump water around the site and attached to a series of pulleys for lifting sacks. It’s thought that the water tower had a capacity of 40,000 gallons although beyond that it’s difficult to quantify the total output of the site. Also on the site were 32

occupied from that point In the Engine House were two Robey & Co engines made by Globe Works on. G W Padley used the of Canwick Road, Lincoln. They were space for chicken rearing numbered 23857 & 23858. They produced 200hp and a working and for frozen vegetable speed of 70rpm, powering processing, in from 1973 Tragically, as the site was being the entire Bass Maltings site. until the 1990s but fires in completed, Britain was less than workers’ cottages, offices, a storage depot, weighing offices, cart sheds and a canteen.

10 years away from the first World War, and production had barely begun when men left to fight abroad, which meant not only a drop in labour but also a drop in demand for the beer that resulted.

The Maltings continued to operate in a post-war era, but only until the 1950s whereupon a new pneumatic malting system had been installed at the brewery’s Burton on Trent site.

This was a mechanised system which did away with the need for workers to manually rake over the malt and was more efficient.

Malting operations were phased out and though the site was let out to other businesses and used as a distribution hub until the 1970s, it was only ever partially

1969 for which little information is available, then in 1976 and 2014 as a result of arson meant the site would soon fall into a ruinous state.

From 2004 attempts have been made to rescue the site and treat it to a £50m regeneration, but attempts so far have been frustrated and plans remain on hold.

“The building’s history is well-documented but as well as confirming information we already understood to be true, we really wanted to revisit the Bass Maltings in the context of social history,” says Nigel. “We wanted to see it through the prism of human life, and find out about the people who worked there. I’m always curious to find out the human side of a subject, and the appeal

What Next for The Maltings? Avant Homes tells us more...

What now? That’s what anyone familiar with The Bass Maltings is wondering.

The site was owned by Gladedale Ltd., which rebranded to Avant Homes in 2014.

Grant Westall-Reece is a retained consultant for the company and told Pride how the company had been working with North Kesteven District Council since 2014 to realise the buildings’ future redevelopment.

of the Bass Maltings from my point of view is the fact that they include information about workers’ lives, about local industry, about architecture, about leaving your home town to go off to war and how deserted the town was, and what it was like when men returned from war. All of those subjects and all of those questions wrap around the buildings themselves.”

Working with Sleaford Museum’s graphic designer Tom Yates and the museum’s display team, Nigel has researched the exhibition which will be on show throughout August and September. In July Nigel and the museum also published a 48-page book detailing the Bass Maltings’ history and hosted a talk at St Denys’ Church introducing the exhibition.

20 years in the planning, 10 years to build and just 52 years in operation, the Bass Maltings is a surviving monument to the area’s industrial heritage, and a stunning architectural site whose beauty, we hope, will one day be shown off once again. n

“We’ve been working with NKDC on and off the past four years and we’re keen to see the The Bass Maltings redeveloped.”

“In April, Avant was subject to a takeover

by Berkeley De Veer, which has given our plans for investment in the site fresh impetus. We’ve revised our plans to focus on the community and what it needs from the site to ensure that we bring something suitable to the area.”

“Previously there were 240 residential units planned for the site within the existing buildings and with additional businesses or community facilities.”

“With the revised plans that is likely increase somewhat but the exact number

of homes created on the site will be predicated on what the area needs.”

“The site is a complicated one, with the buildings in less than ideal condition and it’s also necessary that the development fits in with other projects around the community.”

“Our policy is one of ethical development in the sense that we’re value driven, not cost driven. The buildings are a crucial part of Sleaford’s heritage and when they’re developed the result has to be one that makes the most of the site and the buildings, and brings something meaningful and positive to the area.”

“There’s no timescale that we can commit to at the moment as it’s clearly a complicated development, but we’re committed to the future of The Bass Maltings and we hope to reveal more information about the site’s future soon.”

Avant Homes currently has over 60 live developments across the Midlands, Yorkshire, the North East and Scotland.

The company employs over 700 people and creates around 2,000 units each year.

Its turnover is in excess of £500m. n

n The History of The Bass Maltings is now on display at Sleaford Museum, which is on South Gate, Sleaford NG34 7RQ. Call 07518 972016, www.sleafordmuseum.org.uk.

We MUST repeat how dangerous the site is, with loose masonry, unsafe floors, open voids and trip hazards. With thanks to Aurora Training & Security Solutions (www.aurorasolutions.co.uk) who granted us supervised access; the site is NOT open to visitors and is alarmed and patrolled. Access is STRICTLY prohibited!

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On...

SLEAFORD

GRANTHAM

SATURDAY 4th SEPT

SATURDAY 11th & SUNDAY 12th SEPTEMBER

LOVE OUR PLANET Joint event with Sleaford Climate Action Network and Global Sleaford for family-friendly activities looking at ways to keep the planet safe and habitable.

FESTIVAL OF THE HORSE

Canter down to the castle for the debut of the Festival of the Horse at Belvoir Castle!

There’s heaps of entertainment on offer; you’ll have to rein in your excitement!

The show has exhilarating horse shows, thrilling jousting displays, blissful pony rides, family friendly amusements, and so much more.

n From 11am-3pm, on Eastgate Green, Sleaford.

Free drop-in event at The Hub. See www.hub-sleaford.org.uk.

WOODHALL SPA

THURSDAY 16th SEPT

THE (VERY) FEW: POLISH AIRMEN IN THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

To help set the scene, there will be appearances from re-enactors, Cossacks and Cavaliers plus store holders, with the best equestrian treats and products around! n Belvoir Castle, 9.30am-6.30pm, £25/adults, £10/child. Call 01476 871001, belvoircastle.com.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

SCUNTHORPE’S BATHS HALL PRESENTS RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC, A TRIBUTE TO THE ERA OF PETER GREEN

SCUNTHORPE

THURSDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC IN CONCERT

Rescheduled from June, the tribute band Rumours is almost as popular and in demand as their namesake, and the group has been officially endorsed by founding member Mick Fleetwood. Little Lies, Need Your Love So Bad, Go Your Own Way, Dreams, Don’t Stop, Songbird and The Chain... all sublime, all here to enjoy. n Baths Hall, Scunthorpe, 7.30pm, £30.50/adults, 01724 290640, Doncaster Road, DN15 7RG. 34

The Polish Air Force Lecture is now an extremely popular annual fundraising event at The Petwood Hotel in aid of RAF Ingham Heritage Centre.

This lecture is delivered

by Michael Czajkowski, whose father flew with 300 Squadron and all proceeds are given to RAF Ingham Heritage Centre. n Petwood Hotel, tickets £5, call 01526 352411, or see www.petwood.co.uk.

GRIMSBY

FRIDAY 17th SEPT

CALLING PLANET EARTH A New Romantic journey featuring artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, and Human League, Ultravox, Depeche Mode, OMD, Japan, ABC, Soft Cell and many many more. n Grimsby Auditorium, 7.30pm, 0300 300 0035, or see www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk.

Send your press releases and events to: the Features Editor via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

LINCOLN

BOSTON

THURSDAY 23rd SEPT

FRIDAY 17th SEPTEMBER

I COULD BE WRONG: JOHN LYDON Architect of punk, cultural icon and reformed anarchist.

John Lydon is touring the UK to promote his new book, I Could Be Wrong, and drops by in Lincoln to talk about his life and his truly unique career.

LINCOLN

1st - 19th SEPTEMBER

2021’S WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Exhibition at The Collection Museum in Lincoln featuring exceptional images from the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging

sights for over 50 years.

The competition launched in 1965 and today attracts over 49,000 entries from all over the world, highlighting its enduring appeal. This year’s award-winning images will embark on an international tour that will allow them to be seen by over a million people. n The Collection, Lincoln LN2 1LP, 01522 782040 or see www.thecollectionmuseum.com

Wings & Wheels at the IBCC PRESENTING MAGNIFICENT MEN (AND WOMEN) IN THEIR FLYING (AND DRIVING) MACHINES...!

n Tickets £30, 7.30pm, New Theatre Royal Lincoln, Call 01522 519999 or see newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk.

JOHN CHALLIS: ONLY FOOLS AND BOYCIE

Comedy star John Challis appears at Boston’s Blackfriars this month to recount life on the BBC series Only Fools & Horses. n Tickets £19.50, 7.30pm, Blackfriars, Boston PE21 6HP. 01205 363108, or see www.blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk.

LINCOLN

THURSDAY 30th SEPT

LUNA CINEMA: TOP GUN

Outdoor cinema in the grounds of Lincoln Castle, and Tom Cruise as Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell. n Tickets £16/adult, doors 6pm, www.lincolncastle.com.

LINCOLN

SUNDAY 5th SEPTEMBER

WINGS & WHEELS AT THE INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE, CANWICK Join the teams from the International Bomber Command Centre, Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire Motors Club as the centre bring together the motorised heritage of the county.

This free family event celebrates the heritage that is to be found across Bomber County. Meet the teams of staff and volunteers who share

a passion for aviation, heritage and Lincolnshire.

Representatives and stalls from many regional aviation sites will be exhibiting, come and find out what they do and how they are keeping our heritage alive.

Alongside the aviation we are delighted to welcome Classic Cars and Bikes from Clubs across the region and beyond.

Last year saw over 70 vehicles attending. Featuring 1940s music, children’s craft tent and BBQ. n For more information call 01522 514755 or see www.internationalbcc.co.uk.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Schools & Colleges Here, we profile some of the best independent schools and colleges, across Lincolnshire offering the very best education the region has to offer...

Words: Rob Davis. Pictured: St Hugh’s School, Woodhall Spa.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

St Hugh’s School

“Prioritising wellbeing and exciting learning…”

At St Hugh’s School we are passionate about providing the widest range of opportunities for every child.

Underpinning what we do is the care and support needed for every pupil to thrive throughout their education and wherever their aspirations take them. As part of their learning journey, we prioritise wellbeing, happiness and exciting learning.

With Nursery provision from age two right through to Year 8, we are privileged to be able to shape the young lives of so many children. From day one, even our very youngest children benefit from specialist teaching in French, Music and PE, as well as Swimming in our heated indoor pool.

Our unique learning philosophy places personal characteristics right at the forefront of 40

everything we do and ensures our academic provision is tailor made for our children.

The ability of our Year 8 pupils to work independently can be directly traced from the excitement of our ‘Independent Iguanas’ in Reception – the foundations laid in Early Years are the foundations for the education that is offered throughout the school. Children talk routinely about being curious, about teamwork and being reflective.

These attributes stand them in brilliant stead for their future and we are dedicated to developing the whole self.

With so much more to offer, we firmly believe the best way to get a feel for our School and Nursery is to visit us. n To book a visit, please call 01526 352169, email office@st-hughs.lincs.sch.uk or see www.st-hughs.lincs.sch.uk.

Oakham School, Oakham “Rutland’s vibrant co-educational school...”

Oakham School is a vibrant, fully co-educational boarding and day school for 10 –18 year olds. Our key strengths lie in the spectacularly wide range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities that we provide and a caring and balanced school community.

Whilst academic excellence lies at the heart of everything we do, our focus goes far beyond just encouraging our students to achieve outstanding results in their examinations.

Our genuinely holistic approach to education means that pupils leave Oakham as intellectually ambitious thinkers, who are effective and independent learners, well equipped with the skills and habits of mind to thrive in tomorrow’s world. Over many years, the School has also been recognised nationally for its outstanding achievements in

sport, music, drama and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme.

Our House structure ensures we nurture all aspects of our pupils’ well-being during every stage of their Oakham journey.

Pupils are surrounded by staff who are expertly trained to support their needs, who challenge them to become independent, thoughtful and responsible young adults.

The School’s location close to Rutland Water, in the picturesque town of Oakham, means our pupils and staff enjoy the safety of living and working in a beautifully green campus just a few minutes’ walk from its historic town centre and amenities. n A series of Open Events are being held in September and October.

For more information and to book a place, contact Admissions on 01572 758758 or find out more at oakham.rutland.sch.uk

Bourne Grammar School “An ‘Outstanding’ school, says Ofsted...”

Bourne Grammar School, is a mixed selective School with a large Sixth Form offering academic A-Levels.

The School is rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and in the last decade it has expanded rapidly. There are now over 1,600 students on roll, including over 400 in the Sixth Form.

This growth in student numbers has been matched by the development of the site; recent years have seen the opening of a number of impressive, well-appointed buildings including a new £4m Science Block.

The School attaches great importance to the pursuit of academic excellence. It has a tradition of hard work, respect for achievement and outstanding pastoral support for all.

Public examination results, at all levels, are also outstanding.

The school seeks to provide an ethos which encourages in its students an attitude of hard work and consideration for others. It is Bourne Grammar School’s intention that former students will reflect on their time at the School as being intellectually stimulating, personally challenging, and rewarding. The academic curriculum, is enhanced by the many extra-curricular activities on offer in the areas of sport, music, drama, dance and art.

There are also many different clubs and societies run at lunch and after school.

In addition, trips and visits to concerts, plays, art galleries and other events and places are offered, both in this country and abroad. n For details of how to attend a tour around the school, see www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk or call 01778 422 288.

The University of Lincoln

“A gold standard education in a beautiful city...”

The University of Lincoln has become a hub of gold standard teaching, world-leading research, and amazing links with industry. Situated in the heart of a beautiful and historic city, it is no surprise the University was named Modern University of the Year in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021.

Whether you are thinking about coming to study or undertake research with the University, you can be confident that you are joining somewhere that places the quality of the student experience at the heart of everything it does.

From award-winning teaching to great industry links and outstanding student experience, the University is there to help you succeed.

Employers are increasingly looking for individuals who

can make a difference in today’s global workplace.

With expert staff, incredible modern facilities, close links with business, and worldleading research the University provides the tools you need to achieve your career aspirations.

The University of Lincoln prides itself on the quality of its teaching, which is reflected in its Gold award in the national Teaching Excellence Framework.

Lincoln offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses spanning the arts, science, social sciences, and business, all of which will give you the strongest possible foundation for a future career and help maximise your potential and achieve your ambitions. n To see for yourself, book a place at a University of Lincoln open day at lincoln.ac.uk/ugopendays and discover your future.

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Franklin Sixth Form College “Opportunities to help you achieve more…”

Franklin Sixth Form College students receive endless opportunities no matter their chosen career path. Whether you are looking to progress onto University, Higher Apprenticeships, or enter directly into employment, we want all of our students to develop into successful adults by learning both in and out of the classroom.

At Franklin, staff and students work together to create a mature learning environment that is supportive, exciting and challenging.

We expect all of our students to work purposefully during their time at College, but we also expect them to enjoy themselves. In addition to academic and vocational courses, you can also include in your study programme some of the wide variety of enrichment opportunities that we offer.

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Suthers School

“Providing an inspiring education, for life...”

These include our successful Career Academies as well as sport, art and culture, volunteering and our Honours Programme.

The Suthers School is Newark’s newest secondary school, which was established in 2017 by the area’s Nova Education Trust.

You’ll find that Franklin Sixth Form College is extremely well-resourced to meet the needs of our students. Our subjects are taught in areas specifically designed to meet the requirements of post-16 study, and we’ve invested over £6 million in our buildings and facilities in recent years.

The school is based in a brand new, purpose-built, state-ofthe-art building at Fernwood, just south of Newark.

The building was completed in the summer of 2020 with pupils moving in for the start of the new academic year.

Our success and popularity are built upon our commitment to providing our students with the best possible learning environment, and the highest possible standards of support and guidance. n For information on our courses and to download our Full Time Course Guide, see www.franklin.ac.uk or call 01472 875 000.

The school’s uniquely character-centred approach means that personal development is ranked alongside academic preparation and through its extended day the school guarantees access to a broad range of enrichment opportunities.

“The Suthers School has at its heart the absolute conviction that young people deserve an

education that excites and enthuses,” says Head of School, Andrew Pettit.

“Our ‘work hard, be kind’ philosophy, together with our unique approach to character development means that there is something very special about The Suthers School.

In short, we aim to deliver a highly academic, enriching curriculum and to empower the young people of Newark to do more than they ever thought possible.”

We will be holding Open Events in the autumn term.

To find out more or if you would like to arrange a visit to the school, please explore our website or get in touch. n For further information about The Suthers School and to register your interest, visit www.suthersschool.co.uk or call 01636 957690.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

School of Artisan Food

“Learn how to bake, butcher, create patisserie and more!”

Want to take your baking to the next level or perfect your patisserie proficiencies?

Perhaps you would like to learn more about cheese-making, preserving, or how to craft the perfect pie? Set in the heart of the tranquil country estate of Welbeck in Nottinghamshire, The School of Artisan Food provides a beautiful environment for learning all about creating delicious food.

It aims to truly fire you up about the art and business of sustainable artisan food production with its wide range of hands-on courses that are taught by world-class award-winning tutors.

From baking and patisserie to charcuterie, cheese-making, foraging, preserving and pickling, the courses cater for all levels; teaching complete beginners as well as professionals.

The School of Artisan Food also delivers a Foundation Degree in Artisan Food Production alongside Nottingham Trent University.

And for those who have dreams of starting their own artisan business, the school offers food-business start-up courses. Through creative workshops and practical exercises, you can learn how to test out your ideas and develop a business.

Established as a not-for-profit company, the school’s aim was always to inspire the wider community and make artisan food more accessible. Today it is well known for teaching all about creating healthy, sustainable, and delicious food – and in a fun way. And its unique location within stunning parkland simply adds to the experience. n Call 01909 532171 for more or see www.schoolofartisanfood.org.

Riseholme College

“Providing a specialist technical education...”

Riseholme College is one of the UK’s leading land-based educational institutions specialising in Agriculture, Animal Management, Equine and Sport. Over the last 70 years, multi-million-pound investments in facilities and resources has seen the learning environmental at Riseholme go from strength to strength.

On-site facilities include: l A brand-new Centre for Agri-Food Technology (part of the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology collaboration), which specialises in delivering higher-level technical skills to improve productivity, reduce skills gaps and support industry. l Agri-Tech Health and Nutrition Centre with professional kitchens and dedicated laboratories. l Recently developed Roundhouse to house Lincolnshire Red Cattle.

l Specialist Animal Management Unit which is home to array of species. l A dedicated Equine Centre with a mix of indoor and outdoor arenas and a rider performance suite. l Sports and Health Science Centre, complete with gym, multi-use sports hall and outdoor 3G pitch.

Riseholme College’s Chief Executive and Principal, Bill Meredith, says: “Riseholme is designed to make sure students are work-ready by the time they complete their studies, meaning they are fully equipped to launch exciting careers in a range of industries. We provide outstanding tuition by experts in their field, stunning campus facilities and worldclass industry partnerships.” n Information on the college’s range of courses are available online at www.riseholme.ac.uk or by calling 01522 304600.

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Find out about our full time courses, adult learning courses or how you can top up your skills...

Call 01472 875 000

or see www.franklin.ac.uk Our prospectus is available to download online Chelmsford Avenue, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire DN34 5BY

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DINING OUT AT HOPPI DORRI IN STAMFORD Butternut squash steak with chickpeas, alfalfa, pomegranate and marcha dressing.

E yōkoso to Stamford’s

HOPPI DORRI One of the area’s most unique and satisfying dining experiences is now under new management with a new Head Chef in the kitchen. Welcome back – or perhaps we should say E yōkoso – to Hoppi Dorri, Stamford’s Japanese-fusion restaurant...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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Roasted sweet potato side with yoghurt and kale pesto.

AROUND 18 MONTHS AGO, Stamford found itself turning Japanese with the addition to its dining scene of Hoppi Dorri, an Asian fusion dining experience that, sadly, never quite managed to permeate the consciousness of local diners prior to the arrival of Covid.

A shame, indeed, because the idea was sound and the place looked smart. It was rather large, too, especially for what some might consider a speciality restaurant, hence the decision by its previous management to retain the ground floor of the restaurant for dining and establish a Japanese-themed bar on the first floor.

A month ago, though, Hoppi Dorri changed ownership and Jonathan Spencer cast an expert eye over the place to see what improvements he could make.

Jonathan already owns an Orbis restaurant in Rutland, providing food with pan-global influences. It’s a restaurant concept that’s popular and has been well-executed by the team. And so now, that same formula has been applied to Orbis Stamford, with 48 dining covers on the first floor of the building instead of the saki and cocktail bar.

The ground floor will remain Hoppi Dorri.

Its 58 covers will continue to offer Japanese-

OPEN FOR FOOD Wednesday to Saturday: 12 noon - 2pm and 6pm - 9pm.

Closed Sunday to Tuesday.

fusion food but with a more streamlined menu and a new executive chef, Omar Palazzolo. The well-travelled among our readers may recognise that doesn’t sound much like a Japanese name… indeed, Omar was born and raised in Milan, and early in his career, landed a place in the kitchen of the Roux’s Gavroche; classically French fine dining.

Having worked in kitchens since the age of 14 and in places engilded by Michelin stars from the age of 18, it was about 10 years later that a Japanese spark was lit by two friends of Omar, who introduced the chef to their national cuisine.

“It was incredible,” says Omar. “So many flavours, so many layers of complexity, such an emphasis on freshness of ingredients and so much scope.” >> 47

DINING OUT AT HOPPI DORRI

>> “Immediately, I really wanted to explore every single facet of Japanese food, and set about learning as much as I could about the culture.”

Omar’s reputation in the capital let him to work at Japanese-Peruvian restaurant Nobu on Park Lane and Knightsbridge’s private members gaff, The Art Club, with its Japanese restaurant, Kyubi. Omar then left to pursue a stint working with SushiSamba in Covent Garden and at London’s Heron Tower, before moving down to Stamford with his partner and daughter prior to the opening of Hoppi Dorri 18 months ago.

Under its new ownership, Omar now heads up the kitchen and leads a team of three chefs.

“Stamford is a super place to work,” says Omar. “It offers a better way of life for residents and for those working in kitchens, compared to central London. Restaurants in Knightsbridge can charge mad amounts of money and their chefs are run into the ground.”

“I was seeking a better way of life for me but for my team too. An exhausted team run off their feet aren’t efficient or creative, and nobody enjoys a hostile working environment, so my philosophy at Hoppi Dorri is to encourage everyone in the team to achieve excellence in a place where the customer comes first, not the bottom line.”

“We charge as little as we can without compromising on quality. Japanese fusion dishes can only be created well with the freshest ingredients and with lots of time and effort invested in their creation. Some of our sauces take a day to make, and to marinate a piece of meat or fish properly often necessitates 24 hours.”

“We open from Wednesday to Saturday, for both lunchtime and evening service.

Tuesday is our prep day, when we create sauces for example. That means our team is sufficiently well-rested to ensure they’re at the top of their game and they’re all prepared, ready to deliver top quality dishes from mid-week.” >>

Confit duck leg with cucumber, pak choi, cashew nuts, and orange dressing.

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Tuna and salmon nigiri.

MEET THE CHEF OMAR PALAZZOLO

Hoppi Dorri’s new Head Chef Omar Palazzolo took over a little over a month ago, and has unique experience in Japanese cuisine, with over 12 years of preparing Nikkei dishes.

Omar is Italian/Egyptian in heritage and was raised in Milan. He has worked at La Gavroche for Roux on Mayfair, at Nobu on Park Lane and at the Arts Club, also in Mayfair, and for the SushiSamba group too. n

Barbary Duck Breast with sweet soy and ginger sauce and espelette pepper.

30-day dry aged steak with sticky rice.

“The creative possibilities of Nikkei cuisine allows us to create a Japanese fusion experience that’s unique. Some of the menu’s offerings are authentic Japanese, some are our own inventions...” >> “Both Orbis and Hoppi Dorri share a kitchen but the teams are separate. Hoppi Dorri dishes are cooked authentically on charcoal, which adds an additional layer of authenticity and flavour. Again that’s more time-consuming and complicated, but it’s an investment in the diner’s experience.”

Omar says that as well as the depth and complexity of flavours, the appeal of Japanese fusion food is its deserved reputation as being the antithesis of processed food. Whilst sauces and marinades might be the result of 50

hours of work and myriad ingredients, the fish, meat and vegetables themselves are fresh and uncomplicated, allowing each key ingredient in a dish to come to the fore.

Hoppi Dorri’s remit as a Japanese fusion restaurant allows it to deviate from purely Japanese dishes and bring in any number of other influences. At the end of the 19th century, Peru was the first South American county to enter into diplomatic relations with Japan, the latter sending 790 pioneers to the country to share cultures, including food.

“Ostensibly then, the menu is Nikkei (Japanese and Peruvian) in character – cuisine born as a result of the Japanese introducing Peru to miso, ginger, soy and wasabi, in return for South American influences on Japanese food such as aji and yellow pepper.

“The creative possibilities of Nikkei cuisine allows us to create a Japanese fusion experience that’s unique. Some of the menu’s offerings are more authentic Japanese, some are our own inventions.”

“It’s a case of innovating but keeping quality high, ensuring the customer is happy and that we offer something unique,” says Omar. “Stamfordians usually have lots of experience dining in high-end London restaurants or they are well-travelled.”

DINING OUT AT HOPPI DORRI

on the MENU Appetiser Lime & Maldon edamame £5.

Thai prawn crackers £4.

Sushi Tuna nigiri £12.

Salmon nigiri £12.

Aromatic duck roll £12.

Hoppi Dorri Plates Crispy chilli Cornish squid with yuzo mayonnaise £11.

Barbary duck breast with sweet soy and ginger £14.50.

Spatchcock chicken with tamarind marinade and creamy truffle sauce £19/whole; £10.50/half.

Hoppi Dorri Signatures

White chocolate and coconut panna cotta with mango and passionfruit salsa.

“Because of that, the compliments that we receive really do mean a lot to us.”

Some of Hoppi Dorri’s dishes are smaller in nature, others are full-sized plates as Europeans would know them. There’s a choice of three appetisers, seven choices from the sushi bar, seven main course dishes, seven signature dishes and four grill options plus nine side dishes and three puddings.

Digestifs include sake and Japanese whiskies.

A common flavour profile for Hoppi Dorri’s dishes is umami; savoury, translating as ‘deliciousness’ and a term coined in 1908 by Tokyo chef and chemist Kikunae Ikeda.

Our photoshoot saw us sampling about 15 of the restaurant’s dishes along with the kitchen familiarising themselves with each dish to better advise customers.

Unlike Indian cuisine, there’s no hot spiciness, just satisfying depths of flavour and rich mature flavours.

Our recommendations include the very delicious confit duck leg, with grilled asparagus, but do save room for a Japanese whisky cappuccino or warm banana and caramel harumaki dessert.

Confit duck leg with pak choi, cucumber and cashew nut & orange dressing £17.50.

Blackened Atlantic cod with monks beard, pak choi and pickled daikon £17.50.

30 day dry aged beef fillet £32.

Lamb cutlets with Korean pepper BBQ marinade £25.

A Sweet Ending White chocolate and coconut panna cotta with mango and passionfruit salsa £9.

It’s safe to say that Hoppi Dorri’s offering is as unique and special as you’ll find anywhere short of central London’s dining scene, and it’s absolutely worth a visit.

Banana and caramel harumaki £8.50.

Its food is unique, delicious and intriguing, whilst the setting and service are commensurate. And so, above all, we can highly recommend saying konnichiwa to what will soon almost certainly be considered one of Lincolnshire’s most unique restaurants. n

Hoppi Dorri, All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AR. Call 01780 766772 or see www.hoppidorri.co.uk.

NB: All menu items are subject to change.

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LINCOLNSHIRE CYDER

IN-CYDER

INFORMATION It’s the autumn tipple that’s as pure as it gets and comes straight from Guy Williams’ hallowed orchards in Skidbrooke near Louth.

This month we raise a glass to authentic and refreshing local cider!

PURITY is, sadly, becoming a rare trait.

Industrialisation, mechanisation and technology have all conspired to make sure that everything we eat and drink has been mucked about with in a factory.

Bread is an often-quoted example; just four ingredients – five if you count time – combine to make something really special, but take a peek at the ingredients panel of a mass-produced loaf and you’ll see a bewildering ode to chemistry with added ingredients all designed to facilitate mass production in under an hour and resulting in unholy loaves that go mouldy, not stale.

And that mass production extends to drink.

Take cyder, for example. When Guy Williams makes his Lincolnshire Farmhouse and Vintage cyders at Skidbrooke near Louth, the ingredients list extends to one – and only one – item. Apples. Simple. Only… it’s not simple at all.

First things first… cider, or cyder? The latter is technically from the first pressing of apples.

Cider with a ‘I’ is made from a further pressing of the pulp. Over the years, though, the two terms have become interchangeable, and more of a matter of preference.

Guy is from Frome in Somerset and is quite the polymath, having trained as a chef and worked in kitchens all over Europe to facilitate his wanderlust. He’s also developed properties both here and abroad, worked in

the insurance industry and latterly he was a financial advisor and mortgage broker before moving to Lincolnshire around the millennium so that he and wife Kate can be closer to family.

The country surrounding Skidbrooke has a good few orchards, and a sort of microclimate ideal for growing a good crop of apples. Today, Guy has about five and a half acres of apple trees, although he admits to making the rookie error of planting full-standard trees in the beginning, rather than half-standards which are only about 10ft tall, and as a result, are easier to manage and yield a crop of apple faster than their lofty contemporaries. >>

Words: Rob Davis.

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LINCOLNSHIRE CYDER

>> Guy is also grateful for around 90 annual apple donors, whose gluts arrive in quantities of anything from a single carrier bag to three tonne trailer loads, courtesy of local farmers. Apples are not something that Guy ever finds himself short of, but not all apples are created equally.

For every apple that he uses, about 75% of the fruit is extracted as juice. A tonne of apples results in about 650-720 litres of juice.

But astonishingly, Skidbrooke Cyder is a blend of up to 60 different apple varieties with 35 different varieties alone grown in Guy’s own orchards. Whilst there is such a thing as single variety cyders – usually with a dedicated variety such as Katy – these lack the complexity of flavour profile that skilful blending achieves.

The different varieties are combined in the cyder press but a blend can be further finessed by tasting and blending different pressings to achieve the desired taste and sweetness.

Speaking of which, there is significant regional variation when it comes to cyder preferences too. Western counties’ ciders tend to use high tannin cider apples rather than the mix of culinary and dessert apples favoured in the UK’s eastern counties.

Guy’s most popular cyder is his General Ludd, a medium cyder that’s deliciously drinkable and would undoubtedly satisfy all palates. He also provides a sweeter option in the form of Captain Cobbler – named after the Louth shoemaker who initiated the Lincolnshire Uprising of 1536 – and his Farmhouse Dry. The flagship product is his Vintage which has been racked off into oak barrels and carries a noticeable hint of the wood. Guy’s Farmhouse and Vintage are made with just a blend of apples; Ludd and Cobbler though are back-sweetened.

Guy’s trees blossom from about March to May and harvest takes place from September to November, which is when the fun begins… and when the magic happens.

Once Guy has selected the blend of apples he’ll use, the process is simple. The apples are placed into a water bath for a good wash and to provide some protection against being buffeted as they’re taken by auger into the scratter. This is a spinning plate which

resembles a cheese grater and reduces the apples to a pulp. Successive rollers squeeze out all the juice and the remaining pulp – more correctly known as pomace – is retained as feed for local farm animals.

The press can gobble up half a tonne of apples an hour and Guy ends up with between 1,000 and 2,000 litres a day which is pumped out to fermentation tanks.

Commercial cyders are fermented in a short space of time, but all of Guy’s cyders are left for a year for a more mature taste.

Notwithstanding the dizzying number of apple varieties used and the artistry in their combination, it’s a simple process.

Contrast that, though, with the production of mass-market cyder. Typically, this more rapid, convoluted and less authentic process involves an industrially-produced apple concentrate, to which strong yeast is added and left for six weeks, whereupon its alcohol by volume will be somewhere in the region of 12-15%.

To about a third concentrate, two thirds of water is added to reach 5%-ish ABV for retail and then sulphites are used to prevent alcohol developing further, and perhaps at this stage a sweetener is added too. The maximum permitted amount of sulphites in drinks like cyder is 200 parts per million, and it’s a good job they’re capped, since it’s sulphites which are responsible for headache-ey hangovers. Guy has tested several mass-market cyders to compare them to his own and has discovered that often the amount of sulphites in mass-market ciders are really taken to the limit.

Guy’s own cyders, by contrast, have just 20ppm sulphites, which occur naturally in his fruit rather than being added artificially.

That means – in theory – you shouldn’t get a headache from drinking Skidbrooke Cyder… although we’ll add the usual caveats that this isn’t an excuse to drink to excess, and that you can still fall asleep in your garden hammock on a Sunday afternoon after imbibing it.

A cursory investigation into the production of bottled water suggests that it’s filtered through mixed-media filtration, UV sterilised to kill micro-organisms then ozonated before being bottled… so, as implausible as it seems, Guy’s cyder is by our reckoning, even less ‘processed’ than bottled water!

It’s also a very ‘green’ drink. A Guardian investigation reports that 168 litres of water is used to produce one pint of beer. The process also involves heat too, whereas the energy it takes to press cyder is negligible in comparison.

Guy’s maximum production capacity currently stands at about 30,000 litres with a post-lockdown customer list of 80 pubs and 120 retailers, including the Lincolnshire Coop – one of the few national champions of local food and drink producers – plus farm gate sales.

So… looking for a drink that’ll see you into the autumn months? Looking for a drink that’s as hangover-proof as it gets – when enjoyed in sensible quantities – that’s environmentally sensitive and as unprocessed as it’s possible to make?

The findings from our in-cyder information are irrefutable… Skidbrooke Cyder’s drinks are the most enjoyable and natural way to raise a glass to autumn. n

Find Out More: Guy Williams is the founder of Skidbrooke Cyder, between Louth and Alford. His General Lud, Farmhouse Dry, Vintage and Captain Cobbler cyders are available to purchased in 500ml, 1 litre, 10 litre and 20 litre denominations, £30/12x500ml. Call 07927 162943, see www.skidbrookecyder.com or search for Skidbrooke Cyder on Facebook.

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In the KITCHEN If you’re keen on the creamy taste of Baileys and you’re seeking a rich and indulgent dessert, this perfect pairing is a great way to create a showstopping pudding!

IRISH CREAM & CHOCOLATE MOUSSE POTS Preparation Time: 30 minutes plus cooling. Cooking Time: 5 minutes. Serves Six. 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids) • 6 tbsp Baileys ‘The Original Irish Cream’ 300ml double cream • 3 medium free range eggs • 2 tbsp caster sugar Chop 180g dark chocolate into small pieces and put in a heatproof mixing bowl with five tbsp Irish cream. Heat 200ml cream in a small saucepan until almost boiling.

Pour the hot cream over the chocolate, leave for one minute, then stir until smooth and combined.

Separate the eggs into two bowls. Using electric beaters, whisk the whites until they just reach stiff peaks. Without rinsing the beaters, beat the yolks and sugar until just combined.

Use a spatula to stir the yolks into the chocolate until combined.

Next, fold in the egg whites in three additions, trying to keep as much air in the mixture as possible. Pour into glasses or ramekins; chill for at least four hours until set.

When ready to serve, put the remaining 100ml double cream and 1 tbsp Irish cream in a mixing bowl and whisk to soft peaks.

Grate the remaining 20g chocolate. Spoon a dollop of cream on top of each mousse pot and scatter with a little grated chocolate to serve. To give the mousse a coffee kick, add 1⁄2 tsp espresso powder to the cream while heating it. n

Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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We’re cooking up something really quite special...

Pride Magazines is now working on our 2021 Good Food Awards...

If you’re a restaurant, pub, coffee shop, bistro, or a local food producer, call 01529 469977 to find out how you can market your business to our readers.

Wine of the Month

The gin that makes the most of the Lincolnshire Coast

Carpe Diem Pinot Noir, California 2017

Traditionally pirates drink a barrel of rum, but if they’ve any sense, they’ll trade that in for this local gin featuring coastal botanicals...

£34 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV Seize the day with this autumn superstar. Carpe Diem Pinot Noir is made in Northern California’s Anderson Valley.

From the Lincolnshire Coast, and from Mablethorpe-based Coastal Distillery comes Coastal Gin, which was the recipient of an International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) award earlier in 2021. Botanicals include sea buckthorne, blackberries and bladderwrack seaweed for a fresh zesty taste guaranteed to appeal to land lubbers and salty seadogs alike.

Pair with a fresh raspberry or two and decent quality tonic water. n £32.95 / 70cl / 40% ABV, See www.coastaldistillery.co.uk.

Over the years, this region has gained the reputation of an ideal terroir to grow Pinot Noir for still wines.

The Wine Cellar THIS MONTH WE’VE A LOCAL ARTISAN GIN IN THE KEY OF JUNIPER, A TRIO OF EXCEPTIONAL ORGANIC WINES PLUS A LIGHT AUTUMN RED THAT’S SURE TO SATISFY...

ORGANIC WINES: With sales rising by 47% year, organic wine is worth a try...!

1. A quintessential Cab Sav wine from Chile that’s both vegan and organic. Lovely blackcurrant richness plus juicy full-bodied glassfuls of beautifully floral tannins, £9.49 / 75cl / 13.5% ABV.

2. A rosé wine from our own shores, using Pinot Noir grapes to yield a deliciously crisp wine with a subtle blush. Produced in Sussex, it features hints of strawberries, redcurrants and raspberries, £16.99 / 75cl / 12% ABV. 3. Vegan, organic and a first class wine enjoying the best terroir that Alsace has to offer.

This Pinot Gris has medium dry characteristics with a lime and sherbet minerality, £24.99 / 75cl / 13% ABV.

Blackberry and plum dominate the aromas with added notes of cherry stem and forest floor. Ripe cherry and rustic flavours of leather and mushroom are broad and mouth-filling on the palate. Texture is balanced, lean and focused with forward tannins. Available from good independent wine merchants. n

Elderflower gin for true refreshment...

If there’s a fresher taste of late summer and early autumn, we’ve yet to experience it. Local distillery Warners have created this deliciously vibrant and refreshing elderflower gin which features elderflower, orange and lemon peel and myriad other botanicals. It has won a slew of awards in a host of international spirit competitions, and it’s a cracking tipple with mint and a nice Mediterranean tonic. £34 / 75cl / 40% ABV, warnersdistillery.com.

n Our featured wines are available from

the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

THE IDEAL PLACE FOR

FAMILY & FRIENDS With plenty of space and versatile accommodation, a well-thought out layout plus quality construction throughout, Cedar House is by a country mile the finest property currently on the market in the area. It’s home to Tracy and Nigel Skinner who are empty nesters... well... nearly...

Images: Matte Black Media, 07809 482928, www.matteblackmedia.co.uk.

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IT’S IRONIC that Tracy and Nigel Skinner should be classified as empty nesters. It’s true that three – nearly four – of their four children have left the family home to set up house on their own. But during our phone call to talk about their property, Tracy’s concern was for some baby sparrowhawks who had taken a tumble out of their nest.

She was trying to get them safely back in.

“We’re quite concerned for them as they’re very young,” she says. “It’s a really lovely garden and it attracts lots of wildlife, it’s one of the things we love about the place.”

Nigel is known and well-respected in financial services, having established TNS Financials in the town. Tracy meanwhile is the co-proprietor of Boston’s Bridge House Independent School for pupils with SEN. Above: Tracy’s two daughters are devastated that their parents have put their house on the market having already eyed up the staircase as a place for their wedding photographs to be taken!

Main: At the heart of the home is its 50ft oak-beamed living kitchen with its dining area and sofas. The kitchen is made of solid walnut with granite work surfaces and Miele appliances.

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“We really did think it was our forever home, and we envisaged living here for the rest of our lives but with our four children all pursuing careers and considering a move, possibly to York or Derbyshire, we’re looking to relocate for most of the week.”

Cedar House is set in 2.7 verdant acres, landscaped by Chelsea Flower Show Gold Winning Designer Steven Welch

The first floor has what was supposed to be Tracy’s sanctuary and reading room, although it’s been taken over by the rest of the family over the years, and there’s a further attic room which has been home to Nintendos, guitars, drum kits and bad teenage bands with aspirations of fame.

commissioned architect Sam Culling, now based in Lincoln, to design their home, and Taylor Pearson of Woodhall Spa to built it.

“We’ll still be keeping a foothold in Boston though. It’s our home town; we were born and raised here and we love the place.”

Cedars House is set in 2.7 verdant acres, landscaped by Chelsea Flower Show Gold Award Winning Designer Steven Welch.

“On our wish list was a house that was light, well-made and one that was modern but still had character and a quality feel,” says Tracy.

“We’ve used bespoke timber joinery from MG Dales and from Paul Bee.”

Tracy & Nigel had already built one house, next door, and have become good friends with the other residents adjacent to their property (Cedar House) who each built their own properties at roughly the same time.

The kids were teenagers when the family

The house is arranged over three storeys and comprises five reception rooms, currently arranged as a living kitchen/dining/sitting room, a lounge (Nigel’s horse racing room for watching the gee-gees), a formal dining room and study, each on the ground floor.

Family is abundantly important to the couple, so when they came to create their perfect family home, a lot of thought and consideration was invested in it.

Tracy was gently encouraged by architect Sam to have a large entrance hall, and despite initial doubts, she’s very glad she agreed to it, given the space for a feature staircase and the grand entrance that it has afforded.

Elsewhere the couple wanted a living kitchen with dining and sitting area, and it’s proved 65

very practical – indeed it’s difficult to talk about it without invoking clichés like ‘it’s the heart of the home,’ or ‘we spend much of our lives in there etc.,’ but that’s certainly the case.

The 50ft kitchen has walnut cabinetry and granite surfaces. It has high-end Miele appliances and a separate utility plus a pantry.

Also downstairs is a heated swimming pool with a gym on the mezzanine level. The pool opens out onto the spectacular gardens with a sunken oak-framed garden kitchen with a built-in barbecue, extraction, fridge and lots of soft seating as well as patio heaters.

“We’ve had so many times out there as a family and spent time with friends in the space.

The owners of the surrounding houses were all casual acquaintances before building them, Above: The heated swimming pool has a gym in a mezzanine level above it. Right: The outdoor kitchen has soft seating, heating, a built-in barbecue and fridge.

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and since completing our houses we’ve all become a real community with lots of evenings spent together and much wine and beer consumed. It’s a really great community and we’ll be sad to leave.”

“Having spent all of our lives in Boston we’ll continue to be based in the town a couple of days a week and we’ll continue to run the businesses here. But having a property elsewhere means we’ll be able to live close to at least a couple of our children, too.”

“We hope that the next owners will love the place and will perhaps raise their own family here too, making the same memories that we’ve enjoyed making here.” n

CEDAR HOUSE, FRAMPTON Location: Boston town centre eight mins, 3.7 miles away.

Style: Exceptional architectdesigned country property located in 2.7 acres of gardens with eight bedrooms.

Guide Price: £2,750,000.

Find Out More: Poyntons Consultancy, South Street, Boston PE21 6HT. Call 01205 361694 or see www.poyntons.com. n

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HOME FURNISHINGS

FLOWER

POWER Gaudy and gorgeous, heavy bold floral prints are back, and they’re blooming fabulous.

Here, we’ve selected our favourites...

Main Image: Sanderson Botanical Arts, curtains and cushions in Etchings & Roses and Tiger Stripe. Sofa in Tuscany II.

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Bold floral prints are evocative and cheery.

The larger the print, the more dramatic the look...

Top: Clarke & Clarke Floretta wallpaper in blush and charcoal colourway.

Above/Right: William Morris Blackthorn wallpaper, taken from an 1892 print, in Tapet colourway.

Right: Fullerton fabric by Osborne & Little, from the brand’s Mansfield Park collection.

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Stapleton Park from Sanderson’s brand new One Sixty collection.

Left: Snowtree fabric in blue from Colefax & Fowler.

Above: Hollyhocks in gold metallic/tan from Sanderson.

Right: Emmett in gold from Jane Churchill; Feather’s Chinoiserie in paper in mustard; Taihiti wallpaper in rattan colourway from Clarke & Clarke.

Local Suppliers...

Aitch Interiors: 01522 810961, www.aitchinteriors.co.uk.

Anelise Home: 01522 530400, www.anelisehome.co.uk.

Delcor: 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk.

Richard Sutton Interiors: 01472 268377, richardsutton designinteriors.com.

Sack Store: 01205 310101, www.sackstore.co.uk.

Stevensons: 01472 233111, www.stevensonsgroup.co.uk. n

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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@peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk

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PJCabinetMakers

STEVENSONS OF CLEETHORPES

Pablo Mirror Gold frame, measures 75cm x 99cm, £699.

Gold Trays Set of three gold and mirrored trays, 46cm x 40cm, £74.

Gold Mirror Starburst design, with intricate sunburst design, £99.

GOOD as

GOLD

As well as larger items of furniture for the living room, dining room and bedroom, Grimsby-based Stevensons has a large range of accessories to give your home the finishing touches it deserves...

Gold Ceramic Vase Short pictured, 21cm; tall 36cm also available, £45-£49.

Gold Hammered Bowls Set of two, up to 38cm dia., £79.99.

All of the products featured here are available from Stevensons of Grimsby.

Cleethorpes Road, Grimsby DN31 3AY. Call 01472 233111 or see stevensonsgroup.co.uk or www.stevensonshome.co.uk.

Table Lamp Champagne gold base and black shade, 28cm tall, £89.

Tic Tac Toe Game Gold and white game, 33cm x 33cm, £175.

Hurricane Lamp Textured glass hurricane lamp, 21cm tall, £64.99.

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Home Interiors Studio

Interior design for reception rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms Plus: Finishing touches from lighting to mirrors to bedding & home decor

Anelise Home, 140 Burton Road, Lincoln, LN1 3LW

01522 530400 • www.anelisehome.co.uk

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KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BOOT ROOMS • STUDIES INDIVIDUALLY MADE FREE STANDING FURNITURE

Call 07534 808903 richwood-cabinetmakers@hotmail.com BRING RICHWOOD INTO THE HEART OF YOUR HOME

RICHARD SUTTON DESIGNS

Making Your House into a

HOME The best way to turn a house into a home is to design and install your perfect kitchen; one that’s functional and beautiful.

Kelly & Tom discovered so for themselves when they partnered with Richard Sutton Designs to create their stunning living kitchen...

FRESH, NEW, BEAUTIFUL. Kelly and Tom already knew they had designed their perfect family home, but even with the hours invested in creating their property they didn’t realised what a profound difference a kitchen expert like Grimsby’s Richard Sutton could make to the place.

“Tom is in the motor trade but he and his brother are also property developers.

We used to talk about what the perfect home would look and feel like, we all concluded that it would be a modern family home, but with the quality and feel of an older home, built by a company that would value and look after its customers, inspiring confidence, just like we do in as motor dealers.”

“Together, we founded Rose & Co to bring our idea of what a perfect family home should be to fruition. The result was our development of five family properties in Barnby that are contemporary in style but well-made, attractive and easy to live in.”

“So much effort and thought went into their design, and we think we’ve pretty much got everything spot on.”

“When it came to the kitchen, we already thought our design skills were great, but

then, by chance, we came across Richard Sutton Designs in Grimsby.”

“We wanted a traditional style of kitchen, but the designs we’ve commissioned before were, we felt, a bit too modern for the style of house. Richard was recommended to us, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish.”

“The design experience was collaborative, from the outset. I had an idea that the dining area and living area would be at the front and rear of the property respectively, but as the project evolved and with Richard’s input, we decided to swap their locations around.”

“It was one of many decisions that were made as the design evolved and which were absolutely spot on.”

“Our wishlist was a family kitchen where our two young children could play, safely supervised, and which would also open out onto our garden, blending the living kitchen and the terrace outside.”

“I had a rough layout in mind but Richard helped to ratify that design and help with size, scale and the position of the island.”>>

Words: Rob Davis.

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RICHARD SUTTON DESIGNS

“I liked the idea of a black kitchen but Richard suggested that a slightly softer shade would work better and he was quite right. The eventual shade we chose was Little Green’s Lamp Black...”

Above: Richard Sutton Designs created Kelly and Tom’s kitchen in solid oak with built-in touches like these carved drawers.

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>> “We wanted it to be pretty, but practical too, because for a busy family the kitchen was always going to be the heart of the home; somewhere we cook, eat, live and talk.”

“I liked the idea of a dark kitchen but Richard suggested that a slightly softer shade would work better and he was quite right. The eventual shade we chose was Little Green’s Lamp Black.”

“I also had my heart set on a glass splashback with an antique gold patina. I was delighted when Richard found some

samples and send them over to us so we could have a look at them in situ.”

“He had his favourite but wouldn’t tell me which of the samples it was. I chose one and happily his favourite was also mine – Tijuana Gold, I think. We also wanted a antique brass Quooker tap, which Richard sourced for us.”

“We thought that against a dramatic dark painted shade for the cabinetry, and the gold splashback, a marbled work surface would look fussy, so we opted for a plain white one,

with we opted for a grill finish to the display cabinetry, which, like the breakfast bar seating, was also lit with LED feature lighting.”

“Richard’s visuals were one of the biggest selling points to me. They were so high quality that they really helped us to visualise the finished room.”

“The whole project was organised from start to finish, with Richard and his team coordinating all of the trades and managing the installation... which was quite refreshing as we were managing the rest of the development for the other properties.”

Kelly says that she and Tom have already commissioned Richard to create bespoke cabinetry for the dressing room of the master suite. As well as providing kitchens, bedrooms and freestanding furniture, the company provides finishing touches from its design studio, from table and glassware to sofas and chairs, mirrors and decorative accessories and gift ideas.

Above: Richard created bespoke timber cabinetry and sourced appliances from Fisher & Paykel and Miele, as well as a Quooker boiling water tap.

“We’re delighted with the way the finished kitchen looks and how it works!” says Kelly.

“It’ll be a room that will be easy to live with for years to come!” n

Richard Sutton Designs is based on Wellowgate, Grimsby, DN32 0RA and also provides sofas and chairs, tables, tableware and decorative accessories for the home from the company’s interiors studio.

Find Out More: Richard Sutton Designs creates bespoke kitchens and bedrooms and freestanding furniture for reception rooms. For a free, no obligation design consultation, call 01472 268377 or see www.richardsuttondesigninteriors.com.

For more information on Rose & Co developments, see www.roseandcohomes.co.uk.

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STAMFORD STONE

Style Your Home with

STAMFORD STONE AT HOME It’s an exciting time at Stamford Stone as the company’s Stamford Stone At Home is extending its range of stone flooring tiles and decorative tiles, so there’s never been a better time to discover great customer service...

Investing in stone flooring or paving is always a big decision. Not only do you want to ensure you source the right style of stone, you also need to ensure the quality is good and that the end result is going to be just what you wanted.

No need to worry. Look no further than Stamford Stone at Home, where you’ll find the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Showroom Sales Manager, Luciana Ciarla.

Luciana is on hand at the company’s showroom which is based at Swaddywell Quarry, 88

near Peterborough, to help with any questions relating to stone flooring or paving.

“I like to give customers 1-2-1 attention,” explains Luciana. “Booking an appointment, means we can dedicate real time to each customer. I can spend plenty of time with them, if they want to, discussing their own particular requirements.”

The showroom is one of a kind in the locality.

As well as offering an exquisite selection of English and world stones, including the prestigious Clipsham limestone cut from the company’s own two local quarry sites, it also

has an outdoor showroom with examples of many paving and walling stones in situ, so you can see how a patio or wall will look.

“Our outdoor showroom is the only one like this in the local area. It really helps our customers visualise what their chosen stone will look like which is really helpful when customers are trying to make a decision as to which stone to choose,” adds Luciana. n Stamford Stone at Home is based at Swaddywell Quarry, PE6 7EL. Call 01780 740 970 or see www.ssathome.co.uk.

FIRED UP FOR FUN

Getting ready for the festive season, with Stamford Stone at Home...

As the seasons change and the leaves begin to drop, we know it’s time to think about keeping warm and cosy during the winter season. There’s no better image of comfort and joy than a real fire at the centre of a room.

Stamford Stone at Home creates a range of beautifully crafted stone fireplaces which will frame your fire and turn it into a stunning statement in any room or hallway.

The fireplaces are made using their own first-class stone, quarried locally from their own sites, so the quality and provenance can be guaranteed and its good looks and durability will last for decades.

There are six styles and two types of stone to choose your fireplace from, and all designs can be made up in a selection of sizes.

From order to delivery takes on average between 6 and 10 weeks, depending on capacity, so if you are planning on upgrading your living room for Christmas, it’s time to book a visit to the Stamford Stone at Home showroom. n

Exclusive new products to launch...

Stamford Stone at Home is extending its range of stone flooring tiles and decorative tiles

Two new English stones are being added to the range, both will be extracted from the company’s local quarry sites.

“I am so excited about these two additions to our own range,” says Luciana.

“One is a light cream colour which will have wide appeal and will work perfectly in both contemporary and traditional settings. The other new flooring stone will be slightly darker in colour.”

In addition to expanding their flooring collection, Stamford Stone at Home

is also introducing an exquisite new range of decorative floor and wall tiles inspired by the properties, gardens, coastlines and countryside that are cared for by the National Trust.

flooring and decorative wall and floor tiles.”

Stone flooring: Installation top tips...

“You can order a sample, but this will only show you a small piece of the stone, it’s much better if you come in and see it in situ.”

n Always use a professional stone fitter to install your flooring (we can help with recommendations).

“Come along and look at our fantastic ranges of stone

“And bring along your paint charts, kitchen cupboard samples and curtain swatches so I can help you match up the perfect stone choice,” says Luciana.

To see all the new ranges, ring and book a showroom visit with Luciana on 01780 740 970, or see www.ssathome.co.uk.

n Lay anti cracking matting. n Seal your stone by using Stain Stop for a matt finish or Care Seal to create a sheen. n Think carefully, and take advice if necessary, about grout colours - they make a huge difference. n Buy all your sundries, like sealants, cleaners, stainstoppers from the same supplier as your stone, if possible.

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For Trees & Hedges, we’re

A CUT ABOVE Words: Rob Davis.

When taking care of your trees and hedges requires more expertise and better equipment than domestic gardeners possess, it’s time to call in the experts. A‘n’E Tree Services provides a range of options for maintaining your trees, hedges and shrubs...

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH in your garden, it’s time to call in the professionals.

But for Aaron Rasen and his team, taking care of his clients’ shrubs, hedges and trees requires a deft touch and precision much more often than brute force and powerful equipment.

“Our work starts with a conservative approach and expertise long before we ever get the chainsaws out,” says Aaron. “It took three years to achieve a National Diploma in Arboriculture (NDA) from Lincoln’s Riseholme College, and years of experience to know how to sympathetically and effectively deliver the results that a client is seeking, especially in a Conservation Area or where trees are subject to Tree Preservation Orders.”

“If it’s necessary to remove a tree, we’ve the equipment and training to work at height, safely, and we can tackle even the largest trees.”

“We can also provide a stump grinding service to remove unsightly remains that would take years to decay or weeks to dig out. Crucially, all of our work is carried out with expertise, experience, and with safety foremost in our minds.”

“For the highest standards of tree and hedge maintenance, we really don’t think there’s anyone with a greater focus on reliability and service than our team, so we offer free quotes and consultations.”

“Professional, reliable... calling in the experts to maintain your shrubs, hedges and trees will provide peace of mind, and give your job the professional attention it deserves.” n

“We’re also insured for public liability to the tune of £5m, and we can responsibly dispose of all waste, leaving behind a clear site whether you’re a domestic, commercial, agricultural or authority customer.”

“People tend to think that tree services is limited to removing trees, and though that’s one of the services we offer, actually, tree reduction and shaping, crown raising and pollarding can be a great alternative for maintaining tree’s character, and it’s better for the environment to retain a healthy tree.”

“Likewise, crown thinning or deadwood removal can reduce the density of a tree canopy, or alleviate the weight on that tree, preserving its life or making it safer.”

“Our services aren’t limited to just trees, either. We offer one off, annual or biannual hedge and shrub trimming, maintenance and reductions. Along with ivy/climbing plant control and removal. The latter is a good way to protect heritage brickwork.”

Find Out More: To discuss your job or for a free, no obligation survey of your site, call 01673 843921 or 01522 620255 or 07422 677856. A’n’E Tree Services works anywhere in Lincolnshire on anything from surveys, clearances or shaping to complex issues like Tree Protection Orders and Conservation Areas.

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STYLE & SECURITY WITH BESPOKE GARAGE DOORS

n ‘Insulated Sectional’ or ‘Up & Over’ doors. n Fully bespoke and designed to suit your property. n Range of colours and styles. n Remote control using Garador controllers available. n 30 years experience, family firm.

Andrew Dams CALL NOW FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

01526 861737 • 01778 590022 or see www.garagedoorslincolnshire.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS • AUTOMATED ACCESS • SHEDS & SUMMERHOUSES

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TREE SERVICES AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE, SAFE

FROETEES QU

ALL ASPECTS OF HEDGE AND TREE MAINTENANCE Hedge & Shrub Reductions, Trimming & Maintenance Tree Reductions, Reshaping & Felling • Stump Grinding Ivy/Climbing Plant Management • TPOs/Conservation Areas Domestic & Commercial Work • Fully Insured

Call 01673 843921, 01522 620255 or 07422 677856

for a no-obligation chat or a FREE QUOTE for your job, or see www.anetreeservices.co.uk

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Lincolnshire’s Finest

WEDDING VENUES The backdrop to a beautiful local wedding is a stunning wedding venue.

Here, we’re profiling a few of the most beautiful and versatile ceremony or reception venues across the county which will allow you to create your perfect wedding...

Words: Rob Davis.

1. Belvoir Castle

The ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland...

Grantham’s Belvoir Castle provides probably the most dramatic backdrop for your wedding the Vale of Belvoir has to offer. Its beauty and practicality go beyond its crenellated spires though, with a family chapel for up to 80 guests, and the Duke’s private Chaplain on hand to help you plan your ceremony. Your wedding reception can take place in the Guardroom – where 100 guests can admire the dazzling array of swords and muskets – or in the Ballroom with its floor to ceiling stained glass windows and gothic archways modelled on Lincoln Cathedral, whilst the State Dining Room is ideal for your wedding breakfast.

n Belvoir NG32 1PE. Call 01476 871001 or see www.belvoircastle.com.

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LINCOLNSHIRE WEDDING VENUES

3. The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa

A wedding at the pretty Edwardian hotel in Woodhall Spa will always be stylish and memorable...

The Petwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa is synonymous with Edwardian style and elegance, providing 30 acres of romantic, beautifully landscaped grounds in which to plan a very individual wedding of any size and style.

“We have a range of elegant ceremony and reception rooms to suit wedding parties of all sizes,” says the hotel’s Emma Brealey.

“For weddings up to 30 people, our Garden Room is perfect and opens onto our awardwinning Peto gardens. For weddings of up to 150 guests, the larger setting of the Woodland Suite is ideal with its own private bar and terrace area leading onto the gardens. For those seeking an outdoor wedding, host your ceremony in the Temple Garden with its beautiful vistas.”

2. Lincoln Cathedral

Marry in the county’s most iconic landmark Where in Lincolnshire could be more impressive than the Cathedral to hold your special day? It’s available for wedding ceremonies, and the new Dean’s Green garden is an impressive and beautifully maintained space for a Champagne reception and for your formal photographs.

There are a number of excellent Wedding reception venues nearby in uphill Lincoln too.

n Lincoln LN2 1PX. Call the Cathedral’s booking coordinator on 01522 561632 or email bookings@lincolncathedral.com.

“We have a lovely selection of menus to choose from for your wedding breakfast (so-called as it is your first meal together as a married couple). From three courses or more to afternoon tea menus, we will work with you to create a menu that fits your vision of the day.”

“We are delighted to recommend singers and musicians to fit with your wedding theme.

From harpists, pianists and classical musicians to soloists, themed duos, bands and DJs. We can connect you with the musical accompanists of your choice to set an elegant theme to your reception drinks or have the dance floor full in no time.”

“Our stunning four poster rooms boast garden views, luxurious free standing baths, fluffy robes and slippers and Penhaligon’s toiletries.”

The Petwood Hotel was built in 1905 as a private home and became a hotel in 1933.

It retains its connections to Lincolnshire’s 617 Dambusters squadron, having been requisitioned during the war as accommodation for Bomber Command squadrons. Today though, the hotel is more typically favoured by local couples who are creating their own history and planning the perfect wedding.

n Stixwould Road, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QG. Call 01526 352411 or see www.petwood.co.uk.

Receptions

Quick Tips

Your wedding reception should be the first element of your wedding that you book, as doing so will give you the firm date you need to book all of your other elements.

Left: The state dining room of Belvoir Castle, Grantham.

Above: Lincoln Cathedral in the city’s Minster Yard.

Right: The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa.

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LINCOLNSHIRE WEDDING VENUES

4. The Guildhall, Boston Truly historic with a wealth of history within...

Boston’s Historic Grade I listed Guildhall was built in the 1390s and can now host weddings for couples seeking to hold their wedding ceremony in the heritage-laden Banqueting Hall.

“We can accommodate both small and larger wedding parties of up to 100 guests and welcome enquiries and viewings and the opportunity to discuss your day further with you.”

“With exclusive access to the entire building, we will look to tailor your booking to create your perfect wedding ceremony setting.”

n Guildhall, South St, Boston PE21 6HT. Call 01205 365954, bostonguildhall.co.uk.

5. Mr. Molecey’s Marvellous Mill, Deeping With 20 acres of spectacular grounds...

The Beautifully Restored Grade II listed Granary and Molecey Mill at Deeping is an adaptable and beautiful setting for weddings. Set in 20 acres of mature, established gardens and with rivers and streams everywhere, this is an idyllic setting for any event.

Whether you’re looking for a riverside picnic and an outdoor ceremony, or a wedding in a marquee or tipi, The Granary team has the creative flair, expertise and contacts to help you plan your perfect day.

When it’s all over, a one bedroomed self-contained riverside retreat, The Duck House, is a beautiful place to wake up as husband & wife!

n West Deeping PE6 9JD. Call 07855 242356, or see www.moleceyestates.com.

Wedding

6. Howell Manor Bespoke Events, near Sleaford

As well as rustic receptions, Howell Manor’s estate also includes the Saxon Church of St Oswolds Not only a wedding venue, but a working farm too, set amongst 500 acres of arable farmland which has been in the Sardeson family for many generations. Owner of Howell Manor Bespoke Events, Elaine Sardeson, is also the custodian of the idyllic St Oswalds Church, situated within the grounds of the farming estate and Receptions available for your ceremony.

Quick Tips

“Our Saxon church exudes history and charm. It’s ideal for weddings as you can move Ask your wedding venue if they seamlessly from your ceremony have a dedicated wedding into the grounds for celebratory planner who will act as your drinks before moving into your single point of contact throughout your wedding marquee or tipi for your reception. planning, minimising Whether it’s bales of hay or a hassle. more formal look you’re seeking, we can provide the space and amenities to really make your dream wedding day a reality.”

however you see fit. You can set up garden games, create rustic seating from bales of hay, string up bunting and fairy lights, position directive signage, allow your florist to work their magic or simply allow the natural beauty to take centre stage. Call us now for a personal tour and to plan your bespoke country wedding.”

n Manor Farm, Howell, Sleaford NG34 9PT. Call 01529 460267 or find out more online at howell-manor-events.co.uk.

“The church, can accommodate up to 100 guests... be prepared for a winter wedding by candlelight as it has no electricity supply!

“In front of our family home we can create a reception with your choice of elegant marquee or quirky tipi. Our spacious farmyard is the perfect location for guest parking and the surrounding rustic barns are there for you to use

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Top/Right: Howell Manor Bespoke Events’ St Oswolds Church and a reception in its marquee. Right image by Vicki Head Photography; www.vickihead.com.

CREATING A WINNING WEDDING 1. Set the Date Your entire wedding planning orbits around the date you set.

Start with booking your reception, and you’ll be able to confirm the availability of all of your other wedding suppliers from there.

2. Decide Numbers Next comes the numbers. The reception is the most expensive element of your day, so determining numbers will enable you to set and monitor your wedding budget accordingly. Decide how many people will attend during the day and in the evening, then you can plan catering.

3. Create a Table Plan Now you’ve a good idea of how many people will attend the wedding, you can also create the table layout for your wedding reception.

4. Venue Decoration Next comes chair covers, flowers for the tables, and wedding favours.

You can also use the opportunity to work out where you’ll put the table plan and ask your stationery suppliers to create something to reflect that, as well as commissioning place cards for each table.

5. The Children To ensure that they’re occupied during the reception – especially the speeches – make plans to keep youngsters busy.

You can create party bags with colouring books, quiet activities or other items that will be well received by children but will also keep them quiet and prevent them from getting restless too.

5. Helpful Extras Depending on when you’ll be hosting your wedding, why not have a basket of disposable slippers for tired feet, personalised umbrellas or sparklers available for guests... the latter will look great in photos too! n

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7. The Poachers Country House Hotel, Boston...

The Poachers is one of three Green Welly Inns, venues, providing stylish places for your wedding

Green Welly Inns is a trio of country inns near Boston comprising Hotel Supreme at Bicker, The Red Lion pub restaurant, and The Poachers Country Hotel.

The latter is especially popular as a wedding venue, with 14 beautiful bedrooms, a garden house marquee and secluded gardens for photographs, and wedding breakfasts.”

“With exclusive hire, a personal wedding planner and bespoke wedding packages, it’s the ideal venue to design and create your country wedding, with everything from bespoke menus to a resident DJ.” “As a family-run business, we lovingly care for our venue and it is beautifully decorated throughout; guests cannot help but be charmed by the warm, rustic, luxury feel,” says Rebecca Duffy.

“We realise that every couple is unique and we want each wedding to be as individual as you are as a couple.”

“In order to cater for all budgets and tastes, the experiences we provide are tailored to your needs; we don’t like ‘one-size-fits-all’ weddings.”

“Our contemporary function suite provides the ultimate backdrop for weddings of varying sizes, seating up to 110 people for formal dining and hosting evening receptions for 200.”

“With a picture-perfect setting and state-of-theart fibre-optic star lighting and starlight backdrop for top table, we can give your wedding day a magnificent atmosphere. Our garden house marquee leads onto a beautiful enclosed landscaped garden.”

The Poachers’ own personal wedding planner can offering a wealth of knowledge and wedding trend ideas, whether you’re seeking a reception only or a reception with a wedding ceremony too.

n Swineshead Road, Kirton Holme, Boston PE20 1SQ. Call 01205 290310 or see www.poachershotel.co.uk.

“With exclusive hire, a personal wedding planner and bespoke wedding packages, it’s the ideal venue to design and create your country wedding, with everything from bespoke menus to the DJ...”

LINCOLNSHIRE WEDDING VENUES

9. Lincoln Castle

Celebrate your marriage at Lincoln Castle...

Not just an historic landmark, but one that has available for your wedding since 2017 when the first wedding took place. “We’re an exclusive venue with a magnificent backdrop to your intimate and exclusive wedding reception,” says Kimberley Vickers, Castle Manager.

“Lincoln Castle is a stone’s throw from the Cathedral, making it an iconic setting for the most memorable wedding. The castle is within a 4.6 acre site and lends itself to host large scale events and a perfect location to celebrate with your family and friends.”

“The norman motte and bailey castle creates the perfect backdrop to your dream celebration, whether it is a bohemian tipi theme or a classic white marquee.”

n 01522 554559, www.lincolncastle.com.

10. Oaklands Hall Hotel

Victorian country house hotel near Grimsby...

Wedding

8. The Dower House, Woodhall Spa

A delightful setting and a stunning backdrop for your photographs...

Woodhall Spa’s Dower House was built in 1905 and refurbished in 2003, creating a country house hotel ideal for weddings. It’s located within two acres of grounds and now provides three wedding packages which can be further tailored to suit the style and scale of the wedding you’d like to create.

The Orchard Room can accommodate 120 people, and The Oak Room can accommodate 80 guests, whilst the Garden Room can accommodate up to 30, ideal for more intimate weddings.

One of the most popular features of the hotel for couples planning their wedding is the mature

Quintessentially English, Oaklands Hall Hotel in Grimsby was built in 1877 with 46 beautifully appointed bedrooms and five acres of mature, landscaped grounds. The hotel’s executive chef can tailor menus to your exact budgets and tastes, whilst its Churchill Suite, Garden Suite and Longs Lounge are all available Receptions to create a gorgeous backdrop to your wedding with Victorian style and exceptional service.

Quick Tips

Make sure you have ‘goody bags’ for children at your wedding, keeping them entertained whilst the grown-ups socialise, and enjoy a leisurely wedding breakfast and speeches.

landscaped grounds, and the weeping willow in the grounds creates a lovely backdrop for wedding ceremonies with up to 120 guests.

n Oaklands Hall Hotel Laceby, Grimsby DN37 7LF. Call 01472 872248, or see www.oaklandshallhotel.co.uk.

The stone folly in the grounds is ideal for photography, and in the cooler months there’s also a beautiful fireplace in the Garden Room.

Online you’ll find menus, packages, prices and everything else you’ll need to plan your day.

n The Dower House Hotel, Manor Estate, Woodhall Spa LN10 6PY. Call 01526 352588 or see www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk.

Top: The Dower House Hotel was built in 1905 and refurbished in 2003 creating a country house wedding venue either in the hotel or using its beautiful mature grounds.

Above/Right: A ceremony held at Oaklands Hall Hotel, near Grimsby.

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11. Allington Manor

Grade II* listed and dating back to 1450...

Few buildings have quite the charm and character of Allington Manor, the Grade II* listed Jacobean country house located in the village of Allington and managed by Leo Vincent and family.

Wedding Receptions

Quick Tips Wedding toasts are all about quality over quantity, so ask anyone who’s speaking to make sure their toasts are no more than two minutes in length.

“Allington Manor is a unique venue for civil weddings, partnerships and receptions,” says Leo. “The stunning house and beautiful garden provide a grand setting for a relaxed and intimate celebration. With high ceilings and open fires, The Hall and Drawing Room offer an impressive location for your ceremony.”

12. Harlaxton Manor at Harlaxton, near Grantham

“Our team has the experience to ensure that you will soak up the atmosphere of our home with your close friends and family throughout your special day.”

Harlaxton Manor was built in the 1830s for Gregory Gregory, a wealthy Nottinghamshire businessman, to replace the original Elizabethan Manor House in Harlaxton Village.

“With no minimum guest numbers or pre-determined criteria, we will assist you with your plans and supervise every aspect of the day from beginning to end, ensuring peace of mind to relax and enjoy your celebration.”

The house is now owned by the University of Evansville in the USA, and is used as their British Campus. It is also available as a wedding venue for couples seeking a stunning backdrop to their special day.

“By restricting the number of weddings we hold each year to just one per weekend, we ensure our undivided attention is given to each ceremony, sparing no effort in our aspirations to make your day unforgettable.”

“Few wedding venues in the world can match the breathtaking approach up to Harlaxton, a straight, mile-long drive across an ornate lakeside bridge, under a gatehouse to the towering, fairytale façade that is Harlaxton Manor,” says Andrew Fowler.

Allington Manor has six packages that can be customised to your requirement – a Runaway Bride package for 30 guests at £720; a Weekend Ceremony package at £1,320 based on 30 guests and a midweek Micro Wedding package including exclusive use, flowers, cake, evening buffet and three course meal from £6,582.

The Ultimate Weekend Wedding package at £13,462 provides all of the above and more for up to 60 guests.

n The Old Manor House, Allington, Grantham NG32 2DH. Call 01400 282 574 or see www.allingtonmanor.co.uk.

A stunning mansion near Grantham with incredible grounds and magnificent state rooms...

co-ordinator to ensure that your day runs seamlessly and according to plan.”

“Your co-ordinator will provide the personal touch and liaise with you before, during and after your wedding to ensure you enjoy a stress-free day. Call us today for a tour of this truly stunning building.”

n Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 1AG. Call 01476 403000 or see www.harlaxton.co.uk.

“The iconic Manor House offers unparalleled views over the Vale of Belvoir in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Charmingly English, the Manor is the perfect venue for a truly romantic wedding.”

“We can cater for a wide range of weddings – from an intimate civil ceremony and reception for 30 guests to large evening celebrations for over 200 in our magnificent state rooms.

Naturally we can cater for a range of tastes and provide an exceptionally high standard of wedding breakfast menus.”

“When you book your wedding at Harlaxton Manor, we will assign you a dedicated wedding

Above: Harlaxton Manor’s wood-lined ceremony hall and the exterior of the Grade I listed mansion.

Left: Allington Manor, Grantham.

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Mum Knows Best

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SUPER STYLISH OUTFITS FOR THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM 1. Ispirato, style ISF910 in mother of pearl also available in Amalfi sky or blossom.

2. Condici, style 71060 in cream and angelite.

3. Condici, style 70877 in pearl ice and almond.

4. John Charles, style 26847.

5. Veni Infantino by Ronald Joyce short fitted dress with matching coat.

6. Lewis Henry, style 245, in turquoise.

7. Linea Rafaelli, style 198 Château De Provence.

8. John Charles, style 26795 seen here in Wedgewood, also available in Blush or Fuchsia.

Opposite: Ronald Joyce style 991464 in dusty rose.

Mother of the Bride or Groom Specialists: Anne Wilkinson, Retford/Lincoln: 01522 526752, annewilkinson.co.uk.

Cindy’s Sutton Bridge: 01406 350961, www.cindysfashions.co.uk.

Dress Place, Nottingham: 0115 924 6368, www.dressplace.co.uk Jane Young, Lincoln/Newark: 01636 703511, www.jane-young.co.uk.

Private Kollection, Market Deeping: 01778 346226, ispirato.co.uk.

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A Friend in Tweed A friend in tweed is a friend indeed, and this month we’re showcasing a range of autumn clothing that’s stylish, as well as being warm and practical...

This Page: Joules Jillian cape in camel herringbone pattern £129.

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Holland Cooper Chiltern cape in Bourbon tweed, £649.

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Holland Cooper Knightsbridge tweed skirt £169.

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Dubarry Blackthorn tweed coat with woodrose stripe £499.

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Joules blue tweed fieldcoat £249.

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FASHION

Top/Left: Dubarry Bracken coat in sorrel tweed, £429. Top/Right: Shöffel ladies tweed cap, £59.95.

Bottom/Left: Shöffel ladies culottes, £229. Bottom/Right: Rydale Bramham II blue tweed coat, £75.

For Local Stockists see: Joules, www.joules.com; Holland Cooper, www.hollandcooper.com; Dubarry, www.dubarry.com; Schöffel, www.schoffelcountry.com; Rydale www.rydale.com.

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We are now offering facial rejuvenation treatments...

Discover a beautiful you with our dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments A new service in addition to our high-quality dentistry.

EXCLUSIVE TS DISCOEUREN ADERS

FOR PRID R MORE ONLY, CALL FOTION INFORMA QUOTE LP1

Call now for a free, no obligation discussion or to book a consultation

0147 76 6 594480

i f @d t lh lth t .co.uk info@dentalhealthcentre

3 Avenue A Road, Gra antham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6TA

AUTUMN COSMETICS

Light & Beautiful

FRESH BRIGHT COSMETICS TO TAKE YOU INTO THE AUTUMN MONTHS

1. Flawless skin from Elemis with a new mask...

Spa-favourite Elemis presents its new Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset. It’s a two-part home treatment, consisting of a Phytic, Ellagic and Mandelic acid peel to resurface and rejuvenate skin, plus a phase two treatment which is designed to smooth and rejuvenate skin with deep hydration.

Clinically proven in independent trials, £70/ 2 x 15ml.

2. Luxury from Hermès Hermès, body lotion. “I dreamed of this garden; I created a perfume woven from its memories, the cycle of trees and flowers, nature still enduring within it,” says Christine Nagel, Hermès’ perfumer. Moisturises skin leaving it soft and supple, £42/200ml.

3. Sooth tired eyes...

Equilibrium, from Hourglass, provides soothing hydrating comfort for tired eyes thanks to its clinically proven formula designed to reduce the look of puffiness around the eyes and reduce fine lines. Reduces inflammation and boosts collagen for refreshed-looking eyes, £92/16.3g.

5. An ecological scent for Autumn from Issey Miyake Issey Miyake triumphs again with this Eau de Parfum, created using green chemistry. Musky and hypnotic, the perfume opens with notes of damask rose, and lilac as well as orange blossom.

Ingenious perfumer techniques avoid real lilacs needing to be harvested, allowing the fragrance to be as eco-friendly as possible, £84, 90ml.

6. New Aromatherapy Associates diffuser...

Aromatherapy Associates’ exquisite ceramic diffuser is fully portable with optimised run times and a soft halo of light, allowing you to truly relax into the ultimate in luxurious wellbeing.

Inspired by spa atomising technology, it disperses a micro-fine mist of 100% natural, pure essential oil blends, RRP £120.

4. Sleep well...

Neom presents this hand balm with shea butter and cocoa butter to sooth your hands, and with lavender, chamomile and patchouli plus 11 other essential oils, it’ll help to ensure you enjoy a good nights sleep too, £20/100ml.

n All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, please note that prices stated are RRP and may vary.

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A Vision of the Future at O’Briens We explore the best ways to achieve clarity this month as O’Briens Opticians of Brigg provides an overview of the latest lenses, frames and approaches to eye-care...

Dr Sheeraz Janjua and his team have a clear vision; one to provide 21st century eyecare. As a practice they’re always seeking new innovations and now services to bring to their customers, many of whom travel from as far away as Lincoln, Boston, Skegness and Louth, as well as the area around Brigg, where the practice is based... proving that for quality eyecare, it’s worth the journey.

Low Vision Services

“One of our new innovations is our low vision service,” says Dr Janjua. “It’s an area of academic interest for me, as well as a specialism for the practice and a subject in which I’ve just achieved a Professional Certificate in, from Cardiff university.”

“It’s a service that’s especially useful to patients with Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma, the consequence of which may be difficulties performing everyday tasks like reading or studying close-up subjects.”

“Some opticians provide as highly-corrective spectacles as they’re able to can and declare that’s ‘as good as they’re able to do,’ but their good isn’t good enough for us.

We’ve adopted a new range of low-vision aids from Eschenbach, a leading manufacture of magnifying aids to help with reading, crosswords and so on, or reading restaurant menus, supermarket labels and so on.”

“These aids take different forms – some can be worn over spectacles, some are handheld, some are credit card-sized, some feature LED lighting... but all will help with tasks that are difficult with low vision, used in conjunction with conventional corrective spectacles.”

Blepharitis and Dry Eyes

“Another of the practice’s specialism, and one that was the subject of my Doctorate in 2017, is the conditions of Blepharitis and dry eyes.”

“My colleagues, Jane, Gemma and June, have all achieved qualifications in ocular hygiene and dry eye management. And so, as a practice, we’ve maintained a specialism that’s really beneficial to our patients’ vision and their comfort too.”

Lens Technology

“One of our promises to patients is that we’ll remain truly independent in the respect of our suppliers.

Like a financial advisor tied to just a few suppliers, for example, some optical specialists are locked into using a handful of lens manufacturers.”

“We’re truly independent and can source lenses from Zeiss, Nikon, Seiko, Hoya, Rodenstock and Essilor, which is why we can supply the latest lenses such as our Nikon Seemax Bright, which cut out glare with unprecedented success, or our photochromic polarising lenses with their unprecedented performance in sunlight.”

“This means we can provide world-class optics without compromise and we can provide a fully objective recommendation based on whole-market availability.”

Frames and Eyewear Styling

“We’re also delighted to confirm that Jane, Gemma and June have achieved qualifications from the Eyewear Styling Academy to provide a full eyewear styling consultation to recommend any of our ranges from Swiss made Götti’s titanium rimless designs to bright and cheerful acrylic spectacles from British owned Kirk & Kirk to names like Lindberg and Francis Klein.”

“Our consultations take account of face shape, hair and eye colour and many other considerations to ensure a perfect look every time. It’s another example of why our vision for our customers is leading eye care, every time.” n

Find Out More: O’Brien’s welcomes new patients. The practice is open from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Saturday 9am-4pm.

Telephone 01652 653 595 or 01652 649 024. O’Briens was established in 1979 and is based on Wrawby Street, Brigg, DN20 8BS.

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HOLISTIC HEALTH

A Cacao Ceremony The idea of medicinal chocolate might seem to good to be true but there are health and wellbeing benefits as well as a couple of caveats, as Ali Hutchinson explains more in her monthly health and wellbeing digest...

Words: Ali Hutchinson. Image: Dorte Kjaerulff Photography.

IF YOU WERE TOLD that drinking a warm, concentrated hot chocolate could help you nutritionally, boosting your iron and magnesium levels and give you a shot of dopamine, the feel-good hormone, would you decline? Probably not. Most of us would be willing to give it a go for the taste alone and that’s what I want to share today.

I touched on it last month mentioning Ceremonial Cacao and how I was using it as part of a daily ‘dieta’ and I’ve had a few raised eyebrows and questions as a result.

If you assumed Cacao was chocolate or cocoa’s older, darker sister, you’re in for a bitter awakening. As it turns out, there’s a lot more that distinguishes Cacao from cocoa than the spelling!

They may have a similar-sounding name and place of origin, but they are not the same thing. Most people who try Cacao for the first time find themselves shocked with the spicy bitterness of the chocolate coloured liquid that looks and smells like regular hot chocolate, but tastes nothing like the bars so many of us reach for when dealing with emotional situations.

What is cacao?

Cacao is the natural and unprocessed seed of the Theobroma Cacao tree. The ancients called it food of the Gods from the translation Thea meaning God and Broma meaning food. Cocoa is actually the powder left behind after the outer husk of the cacao beans has been removed, the bean processed, and the butter removed. Cacao is the more highly concentrated, or natural, version of chocolate with many nutrients and much of the fat still in place.

Most mass-produced chocolate, even the good varieties, contain only 20 to 30 per cent cacao! The rest is milk, sugar and solids with things like animal fats and palm oil being thrown in to create the sweet addictive taste we have come to associate with emotional release.

The West is new to the art of using Cacao for healing so you may never have heard of ‘Mama Cacao’ but she has been used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes for thousands of years. Cacao was considered sacred, and the ritual of drinking it as an elixir for good health has its roots in the ancient Olmec, Mayan and Aztec traditions in Central and South America.

The Cacao I am using, and suggesting you try, is used in spiritual ceremonies and is almost pure ground Cacao bean mixed with Cacao butter, water and maybe a few spices.

Health benefits of Cacao

Healers in many cultures have traditionally used Cacao to alleviate a host of mental and physical afflictions, such as depression, insomnia, nervousness and excitability, as well as regulating blood pressure and sugar levels, and preventing cardiometabolic diseases – the number one cause of death in the world according to the WHO. It stands to reason then, as multiple clinical trials have shown, that consuming cacao can help with anaemia (especially among vegetarians and vegans); lower the risk of cardiometabolic diseases by improving the markers for triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and fasting insulin; improve brain function and our ability to focus; and improve our mood including supporting our serotonin,

dopamine and endorphins. Now you seriously want to give it a try... don’t you?!?

Locally you can try it at one of my Cacao ceremonies in person or online; message me for future dates, as days and times over the summer may change. Or if you want to consume it at home I’ve found a fabulous source in Pablo at Forever Cacao (forevercacao.co.uk).

I always check people’s health before offering cacao but the great thing about it is it will automatically tell your body if you’re overdoing it. Too much will give you migraines and stomach aches indicating that you should lower your dose or stop.

If you’re contemplating switching from coffee to cacao for the increased health benefits and want some advice on how to get started please message, I’m here to help and support you.

What happens at a Cacao Ceremony

My cacao ceremonies are always a restorative and deeply channelled event with a meditation and often a combination of healing practices such as reiki, sound, dance, yoga and meditation.

A typical ceremony involves a group of people sitting in circle together, setting intentions (what you hope to achieve or to rid yourself of during the exercise), drinking Cacao, sharing intimate confidences without judgment, and allowing Cacao to guide you to an elevated meditative state.

They typically last between an hour or two but I’m looking at collaborating with other local healers to put on a day long retreat in the Autumn and looking for local people to collaborate with so please also get in touch. n

Find Out More: If you’re struggling with perimenopause or menopause, experiencing gut issues, or need support with energy levels, weight loss or weight management I’m here to help. Book a free call via my blog www.ali-hutchinson.co.uk or email hello@ali-hutchinson.co.uk or call to find out how I could help you on the path to a brighter future: 07973 843020.

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Pride Magazine is available to read, for free, on your phone or tablet...

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43/44 Wrawby Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire DN20 8BS Tel: 01652 653595. Web: www.obriensopticians.co.uk Call for an appointment or pop in to view our latest designer eyewear.

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Call for an appointment on 07720 345236 or find us on Facebook or Instagram @sandlandtayloraesthetics

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MOTORS

A THREE

FOR ALL You can do it... you really can ‘go electric’ without limitations.

This month we discover BMW’s iX3, an entirely electric vehicle that’s easy to live with, engaging to drive and compromise-free...

Words: Rob Davis.

THE ENCOURAGEMENT is everywhere. We’re all being told that we need to get into electric vehicles to address climate change; ditch the diesel and get past petrol.

But if doing so involves making compromises and fretting about running out of charge mid-journey, adoption of plug-in electric cars will be slow. Whilst plug-in hybrid vehicles bridge the gap, the fact is, they remain a poorer compromise, with much more limited electric ranges and poor fuel economy thanks to the fact that a typically smaller combustion engine has to lug around the extra weight of the electric constituent of the car; the batteries, a motor and so on.

To make the leap towards the necessity of electric car ownership, we need vehicles that

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provide compromise-free electric motoring, and so it’s with staggeringly good timing that BMW releases this, the iX3.

It’s phenomenal. Conventional looking – still smart though – great value, a well-reconciled family motor that will enable you to make the move to electric motoring and never look back.

Unlike BMW’s odd-looking i3 electric car, the iX3 is much more recognisable as being a mid-size SUV with a big boot and four seats. It’s well-equipped, quick and offers excellent range, alleviating any worry about being dependent on regular recharging.

Let’s start with the iX3’s powertrain, which is roughly akin in terms of performance to

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BMW’s 2.0 litre turbo engine in the firm’s combustion-powered X3 SUV. The iX3, though, has 80kWh worth of batteries, to provide 279 miles of range on a full charge.

more pliant and more settled on the road just about all the other vehicles in its class, dealing with bumps and rough roads with composure, making motorways effortless.

A 10 minute charge at a rapid charging station at the motorway services will provide another 62 miles of range, and an 80% charge in 34 minutes. So, if you do need a mid-journey top up, it’ll take no longer than the time it takes for a coffee and a comfort break at the services to be on your way again.

And then, there’s the kit list. Happily there are just two versions; a very simple lineup.

Heated leather, electrically adjustable seats, sat nav, three zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and parking camera are all standard, as is a glass sunroof. The Premier Edition Pro adds automatic parking, 360° camera, keyless entry and a dashcam too.

Performance? Brisk. 60mph is reached in 6.8 seconds for safer overtaking, and it feels fast thanks to the instant power delivery provided by an electric motor. Top speed is limited to 112mph, and no CO2s are harmed in the process.

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The car has five adult-sized seats and a boot of 510 litres with five seats in place (about the same as a Ford Mondeo), or 1,560 litres with seats folded (greater then the Ford’s).

Driving wise, the iX3 is rear-wheel drive only – not a 4x4 – and it’s on steel springs, not air suspension. But actually, its smoother,

For £58,795, or £61,795 for the Pro model, we think the iX3 represents great value – when you factor in fuel savings – plus the practicality, great driving experience and peerless quality that BMW promises. n

Four Wheel Drive: Three pronged attack...

Range Rover Velar P400 PHEV £68,600: Land Rover’s most design-led model is the Range Rover Velar, with five seats and an on-road bias. It does without the Range Rover Sport’s air suspension and low range gearbox, and it’s lower to the road. There are five seats, too, rather than the 5+2 configuration of the Discovery or Range Rover Sport. Top speed is 130mph, 60mph in 5.1 seconds, and it’ll achieve a WLTP economy figure of 116mpg, but only with regular recharging. n

Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD Range Extender £57,030: Well-priced, and with all-wheel drive, the Mach-E in Range Extender version has a range of 335 miles and will reach 60mph in 5.1 seconds. Power output is 351PS. However, as well-equipped as the Mach-E is, its Ford origins make their presence felt in respect of Focus-sourced parts in the cabin, and though it’s more like a Tesla in terms of its interior, the Mach-E’s bolted on iPad-style screen doesn’t look as neatly integrated as the infotainment system in the iX3. BMW is also ahead of the competition in terms of the snappiness and ease of use of its iDrive 8.0 control system. n

BMW iX3 PREMIER EDITION PRO Price: £61,795 (Pro, on sale now).

Powertrain: 80kWh, BMW eDrive electric motor, 286hp.

Performance: 0-62 mph: 6.8 seconds. Top Speed: 112mph.

Electric range of 282 miles.

Equipment: Adaptive cruise, 360° camera, self-parking, sat nav, heated leather seats, power tailgate. n Listers BMW, 01205 350000, www.listers.co.uk/bmw

Mercedes Benz EQC AMG Line Premium Plus £74,610: Pricier than the BMW, a Mercedes equivalent will provide five seats and a GLC-sized all-electric powertrain. Range is 240 miles to 244 miles, with 80kWh batteries and 60mph reached in 5.1 seconds. Top speed is limited – like the BMW – to 112mph, and standard kit in this range-topper include all wheel drive, power tailgate, sunroof and 360° camera.

Specify the optional Driver Assistance package for a wealth of useful technology. n

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MOTORS

TAKING

GOLD Porsche has launched a storming new flagship version of its Cayenne SUV. At £144,000 the Cayenne Coupé Turbo GT provides extra oomph and style to spare thanks to its gold wheels... an acquired taste, or a style statement?

Words: Rob Davis.

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THANK GOODNESS. The Porsche Cayenne was a bit lacking in speed, after all. Well, it wasn’t. Still, what’s the expression... more is more and less is much less?

At a whisper under £145,000, Porsche’s Cayenne Coupé offers storming performance, plus tuning and handling tweaks in order to extract an extra 89bhp and 50Nm torque from its 4.0V8 engine.

Total power output is 631bhp and 850Nm torque, resulting in an unseemly 3.3 second 60mph dash. The exhaust is now a titanium version of the conventional Cayenne’s pipes, and the silencer has been removed, ostensibly to save weight but doubtless to make the GT sound a bit more menacing.

Other changes include a reprogrammed eight-speed automatic gearbox providing quicker shifts and a retuned all-wheel drive system with launch control for making a quick getaway. The Cayenne’s air suspension has also been fettled, and it sits 17mm lower.

A contoured carbon roof and black wheel arch extensions, together with 22-inch GT Design wheels in Neodyme, dominate its side view. The carbon side plates fitted lengthwise to the roof spoiler are GT-specific, as is the adaptively extendable rear spoiler’s lip, which is 25mm larger than that fitted to the Turbo.

PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ TURBO GT

Inside, the car also debuts the firm’s next-generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with improved performance and a new user interface.

The system allows for in-depth integration of Apple Music as well as Android Auto, which means that all popular smartphones can now be integrated.

More power to your Cayenne was hardly necessary, but the style tweaks will doubtless appeal to those already considering a Cayenne, which remains the best handing large SUV on the market. n

Price: £144,000 (on sale now).

Engine: 4.0V8 turbocharged.

Performance: 60mph in 3.3 seconds, 186mph.

Equipment: Air suspension, 22” wheels, torque vectoring, electric sports seats. n 127

MOTORS

Thoroughly Modern Mini LONDON ELECTRIC CARS (LEC) HAS LAUNCHED A CLASSIC MINI EV CONVERSION THAT DOESN’T COST THE EARTH

LEC Proving that electric vehicles conversions don’t have to cost the earth, London Electric Cars (LEC) has launched its affordable electric-powered classic Mini conversion, with prices starting from £25,000 (excluding donor car).

The most cost-effective in the marketplace, they are also some of the most sustainable in terms of their end-to-end vehicle lifecycle impact.

Based in the heart of London, LEC is the only electric car conversion specialist within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) as well as being the only EV converter based in one of the world’s largest cities.

The base 20 kWh LEC classic Mini conversion, has a projected range of 60 - 70 miles, but owners can install upgraded batteries to provide more range too. n

British Motor Show Gears Up FIRST EVER BRITISH MOTOR SHOW SINCE 2008 PROMISES MODEL LAUNCHES, FAMILY FUN AND CELEBRITIES TOO...

Nissan provides UK car industry with a battery powered boost...

NISSAN Nissan last month revealed plans for a £1bn flagship Electric Vehicle Hub creating a world-first EV manufacturing ecosystem. Centred around the record-breaking plant in Sunderland, UK, Nissan EV36Zero will supercharge the company’s drive to carbon neutrality and establish a new 360-degree solution for zero-emission motoring. 900 new jobs will be created and will help other manufacturers to have the confidence to make batteries and electric vehicles in the UK too. n

BRITISH MOTOR SHOW The British Motor Show is to make a momentous return this month, the first major international motor show to take place in the UK since 2008.

Based at Farnborough International Expo Centre, Hampshire from 19th – 22nd August, the show will feature a variety of content, including the Automotive Careers Expo, The Select Electric Motor Show, Retro Electric Live, two live stages and exhibits dedicated to motorsport and future technology.

Adult tickets cost £18/ea; VIP tickets £100. For more, see www.thebritishmotorshow.live. n

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

SELF-DRIVING CARS

ARE WE READY FOR SELFDRIVING CARS? NOT QUITE SAYS SURVEY...

The UK public is still yet to be convinced of the prospect of fully autonomous vehicles, a recent CarGurus survey has revealed.

While having a car drive itself is still out of many driver’s comfort zones, automated technologies such as automatic emergency breaking and pedestrian detection, that assist a driver in getting from A to B safely, are of significant interest to car buyers.

Respondents were evenly spilt when it came to their overall opinion about the development of selfdriving cars, with 30% considering themselves excited, 35% neutral and 36% concerned.

This divide was echoed in the near fifty-fifty split in participants who felt the technology was still too new to place their faith in.

However many participants were warmer towards the merits of practical assistance instead of full autonomy, and were very or extremely interested in cars with features such as automatic emergency braking (43%), lane keeping assist (36%) and automatic parking (48%). n 129

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