Rutland Pride Apr 2014

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APRIL

APRIL

2014

THE BEST OF

APRIL 2014

RUTLAND & STAMFORD EVERY SINGLE MONTH

RutlandPride

RutlandPride

THE NUMBER ONE COUNTY MAGAZINE

STAPLEFORD PARK

COVERING RUTLAND AND STAMFORD

GREAT DAYS OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THIS MONTH...

Restaurant of the Month

Great Days Out for Families

What’s On this Summer £3.70

A PR IL 2014

Oundle

Eating Out

Spring Homes

Exploring our market towns

Spring dining in Rutland

30 pages of home ideas

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A P R I L

APRIL

2014

RutlandPride

THE BEST OF

RUTLAND & STAMFORD EVERY SINGLE MONTH

RutlandPride THE

NUMBER

ONE

COUNTY

MAGAZINE COVERING RUTLAND AND STAMFORD

Restaurant of the Month

STAPLEFORD PARK

THE numBEr onE CounTy mAgAzinE

Welcome to April’s Rutland Pride, and with the better weather upon us, we’re delighted to this month present a What’s On in Rutland guide, with recommendations for family days out, open gardens, and other events to ensure fun, family-friendly days out in spring and summer.

Great Days Out for Families

What’s On this Summer £3.70

Oundle

Eating Out

Spring Homes

Exploring our market towns

Spring dining in Rutland

20 pages of home ideas

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This month’s cover: Lyddington Bede House, the medieval wing of a palace previously owned by Sir Thomas Cecil, now an English Heritage property open from 1st April.

Pride magazines Elm grange Studios East Heckington, Boston Lincolnshire PE20 3QF

Elsewhere, we visit Oundle and discover hidden depths to this diminutive town, then we meet adventurer Ranulph Fiennes, hosting a charity event in the county this month in aid of the Children’s Air Ambulance.

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

Elsewhere we enjoy local food, with a visit to the lovely Stapleford Park, and take a look at local Asparagus too.

www.facebook.com/rutlandpride Why not follow us on Facebook? you can keep up to date with any news we may have for our lovely magazine!

With this, and lots of ideas for spring homes and gardens too, we all hope you enjoy this edition!

twitter.com/@RutlandPride Follow us on Twitter so you can read our tweets. We’ll let you know what’s going on and keep you well informed!

Enjoy!

By supplying editorial or adverts to rutland 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. This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available.

With best wishes from the Rutland Pride team...

Publisher: Julian Wilkinson. General Manager: ian Bagley.

Executive Editor: rob Davis. Features Editor: Ceri Jackson Customer Care Manager: mandy Bray. Accounts Manager: Sue Bannister.

Sales Manager: zoie Wilkinson. Sales Executives: Jayne Broughton, Elaine Hall, Liz King, Carissa Clay, rachel Jones, Emily Brown, Sami millard, Andy Taylor, Lauren Chambers, Chloe griffiths, Emma Barrett, rachel monk, Hayley Scott.

Sales Support: Jo Leadbitter, Amy Whiley, Emily rippin. Distribution Manager: Paul Dixon.

Enjoy rutland Pride, read it cover to cover.

Pick it up, put it down and when you have finished with it pass it on. When everyone has had a good read, pop it in the recycle bin!

Decorative

Delicious

Destination

Days Out

The best furniture, ideas and finishing touches for your home on our Homes & Gardens pages.

Enjoy the taste of fine dining this spring on the Stapleford Park estate near Melton and at Cherry House.

Make your way to Oundle this month as we explore this diminutive market town.

Enjoy the best that Rutland and the surrounding area has to offer with ideas for family days out.

SPring 2014

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CountyNews

Send your press releases and county news to: Rob Davis via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Ranulph Fiennes enjoys an adventure in Rutland Fundraising dinner in the county with lecture by arctic adventurer raises £20,000 for Children’s Air Ambulance...

Exton’s Barnsdale Lodge recently welcomed arctic explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes for a fundraising dinner in aid of the Children’s Air Ambulance. The evening was attended by over 170 guests and raised £20,000 from ticket sales, an auction and raffle.

The Children’s Air Ambulance runs alongside the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland service, and the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire service.

The three cost £10m a year to run, with the Children’s Service costing £134,000 a month to run alone.

The Children’s Service was established in May 2013 and has so far completed 50 transfers of babies or children and their medical teams to specialist units.

Sell your old kiddy clutter, Mum2Mum

Hambleton Bakery’s success as artisan food firm opens two new retail outlets Bakery doubles production capacity in Exton...

Stamford mum Katie Mundell is this month hosting her nearly new baby and toddler sale, Mum2Mum, at the Queen Eleanor School, Stamford on Sunday 6th April from 11am.

Mums can sell all the equipment, clothes and toys their babies and toddlers have grown out of, and grab a bargain too.

Admission is £2, kids free.

For more information see www.mum2mummarket.co.uk.

Meanwhile, Sir Ranulph spoke about his round the world exploration and the motivation needed to walk, ski and sail in some of the harshest environments on the planet. His speech lasted over an hour and 20 minutes and was accompanied by nearly 80 slides with the specially invited audience enthralled throughout.

Attendees at the event included Rutland’s High Sheriff, Trish Ruddle, Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Laurence Howard, and the High Sheriffs of Leicestershire and Lincolnshire.

Two future events are planned by the charity, in June and October featuring Major General Patrick Cordingley - a ‘Desert Rat’ and Dame Stella Rimington, former head of the security services.

Rutland’s Hambleton Bakery, is expanding into Market Harborough and West Bridgford.

“Hambleton Bakery, the award winning Artisan Bakery based at Exton in Rutland is nearing the end of a building project aimed at doubling production capacity.” says the firm’s Carolyn Turner.

“We have also opened a new shop on Church Street in Market Harborough and will shortly open on Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham.”

The new shops will be stocking the full range of artisan breads, cakes and savouries.

The company is home to Julian Carter, and has picked up awards over the past couple of years which has seen it named Britain’s Best Bakery and Julian himself Baker of the Year. Julian was also a ‘Food Hero’ in the Pride Magazines Good Food Awards 2013.

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CountyNews All you need for ‘D of E’ at Get Lost in Rutland...

Oakham’s outdoor leisure store Get Lost, based at Rutland Garden Centre in Ashwell, has launched special Duke of Edinburgh Award kits for youngsters embarking on the awards scheme. The kits contain everything youngsters

Send your press releases and county news to: Rob Davis via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

need to equip themselves with for successful completion of the awards, with camping and outdoor clothing included.

In addition to camping equipment the store also sells electric bikes, GPS equipment and everything you need for a season of walking, golf, birdwatching or camping.

For more information call 01572 868 712 or see www.getlostinrutland.co.uk.

Image: Dave Cram.

Rutland Pride Business Awards 2014 taking place at Ladywood Estate...

Look out for classic cars at the annual Stilton Cheese run, departing from Uppingham!

The 39 mile route dates back to 1700s and was then completed by horse and cart, now a charity event...

Uppingham is this month the starting destination for the Stilton Cheese Classic Vehicle Run, a charity event where owners of classic vehicles are encouraged to take to the road to retrace a route that was made to deliver Stilton Cheese around the villages, one of the longest commercial carriage rides of its time.

“The Cheese Run is organised to coincide with the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Club’s annual ‘Drive it Day’ where owners of classic vehicles are encouraged to take to the road.” say organisers.

Rutland Pride will this month host our inaugural Business Awards, in association with Essence Events’s Nicky Barr. The awards cover both Stamford and Rutland, and will see a keynote delivered by Carphone Warehouse founder David Ross. An independent panel will award six SMEs titles including Small Business of the Year and Best New Business. Look out for our exclusive photographs in our next edition.

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The event takes place on Sunday 27th April, with vehicles departing from Uppingham Market Place.

“In previous years we’ve raised just over £960 for charity plus a further £100 was donated at New Lodge Farm by the general public.

In the early 1700’s the housekeeper at Quenby Hall, near Hungarton, Leicestershire used to make blue cheese. Her daughter married the inn keeper of The Bell Inn at Stilton and she used to regularly take some of the cheese to her in-laws at the Inn.” “The Bell Inn began to sell the cheese to hungry travellers journeying by coach and horses along the Great North Road from London to York and thus began the 300 year association.”

The original route of 39 miles was by horse drawn carriage stopping off to make deliveries of cheeses at the various villages and towns along the route including Billesdon, Skeffington, East Norton, Allexton, Wardley, Uppingham, Seaton, Harringworth, Bulwick (where they changed horses at New Lodge Farm), Southwick, Oundle and Lutton.

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TICKENCOTE, LINCOLNSHIRE £285,000 Built over 300 years ago, Dawson’s Cottage is a charming period property whose delightful stone frontage and pretty thatched roof have all the characteristics of the quintessential English cottage. The listed property has been carefully restored and updated and now sits under a recently reworked thatch, whilst at the back the later extension has a new slate roof. Many of the original features of the cottage have been carefully retained and the elegant and charming interior has thick stone walls, flagged floors, latch-handled doors and a handsome inglenook fireplace with open hearth. The simple, understated décor in a range of heritage colours maximizes the spacious feeling of the main rooms and allows the details, such as the solid oak beams and exposed stonework, to stand out. Newer, practical additions include the recently fitted Kitchen, traditional ‘toast-rack’ style radiators, cleverly planned storage and secondary glazing. Outside, the pretty, sheltered courtyard and garden have many sunny seating areas and are planted simply with beds of flowering roses and shrubs. A magnificent espaliered pear tree occupies one of the outside walls and bears autumn fruit. Overall, Dawson’s Cottage is a truly delightful period cottage with an attractive interior.

TANSOR, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE £749,000 Dating from around the eighteenth century and built of lovely local limestone, Manor Court Barn sits in the very heart of the village close to the banks of the River Nene and was once the workshop and stables to Tansor Manor. Converted in 2001 and now Grade II listed, the barn overlooks its sheltered courtyard garden and the original openings and stable doors have been incorporated into the exterior creating wonderful access between the house and the garden.

The spacious interior features original beams, reclaimed timbers and areas of exposed stonework and, with vaulted ceilings and many windows, is flooded with natural light. Double doors between the main reception rooms give an open flow to the ground floor whilst the many different rooms offer the opportunity to create a layout and home ideally suited to individual needs and tastes. With its south-facing courtyard garden, Manor Court Barn is a period property that combines historic heritage with modern practicality and is an elegant and spacious home in an excellent location.

Fine & Country 2 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DE Telephone: (01780) 750200 Email: stamford@fineandcounty.com www.fineandcountry.com

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THISTLETON, RUTLAND £1,175,000 Built in the 1600’s of local stone with a steep pitched slate roof, the Old Rectory is an elegant village property, retaining many of the exquisite characteristics of the Georgian period. The handsome façade overlooks secluded grounds with open countryside beyond, whilst interior period features include gracefully proportioned rooms, casement sash windows, original beams and solid wood paneled doors. The Grade II listed house is impeccably presented following recent refurbishment which has carefully restored original features whilst adding updates in keeping with an historic property. The house now combines stunning formal reception space with robust family areas and lovely light-filled bedrooms laid out over three floors. The grounds sweep down from the house and include lawns, woodland, a walled garden and hard-surface tennis court, with the further advantage of an adjoining four acre paddock. With its secluded village location, wonderful Georgian features and varied living space, The Old Rectory is a stylish, practical period residence in an excellent location.

GREATFORD, LINCOLNSHIRE £2,500,000 Dating from 1837, The Old Rectory is a handsome period property whose charming style has late Regency and early Victorian influences. Built of mellow limestone with a Collyweston slate roof, the property has a striking south-facing façade with arched stone-mullioned windows, an impressive central front door and Gothic detailing along the roof-line. Inside, the elegant reception rooms and bedrooms have classic proportions, high ceilings and tall Tudor arched windows with working shutters, whilst the stunning entrance hall retains the original flagged floor and magnificent sweeping staircase. Later additions at the rear have extended the accommodation and the house has recently been refurbished throughout including the addition of a stunning Vale Garden orangery to the delightful Kitchen & Breakfast room. The house combines historic character and charm with modern fittings which include under-floor heating, lighting systems and state-of-the-art bathrooms. Set in secluded south-facing grounds the property has the further benefit of three adjacent paddocks, a self-contained Annexe comprising an office and one bedroom flat and an exceptional Garage which is ideal for a car enthusiast. With its peaceful village setting and immaculate interior, the Old Rectory makes a stunning and welcoming historic family home in a wonderful location.

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LOVICKS PLACE, EMPINGHAM

GUIDE PRICE £1,400,000

A gracious former Rectory, listed Grade II, dating from the late 17th century and set in delightful gardens.

THATCH FARM, GLASTON

GUIDE PRICE £1,100,000

A Charming Stone Thatched Period Property, Listed Grade II, Dating from the Early 17th Century with Annexe, Indoor Swimming Pool and Cottage.

STAMFORD

Tel: 01780 484520 Offices – LONDON • MARKET HARBOROUGH • STAMFORD

www.kingwest.co.uk

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THE SPin SEnSATiOn SwEEPS OUnDLE FiTnESS It’s no secret around Oundle that the continually popular Indoor Cycle or ‘Spin’ classes continue to be one of the top classes on the timetable. The club now boasts 16 classes through the week for those keen to take part.

The club initially brought to life just over 2 years ago has grown its membership base as well as the class timetable with other classes on offer looking at Bootcamp, Pilates, Yoga, Boxercise, Kettles & Ab Attack.

It’s location is a 5 minute walk from the Centre of Oundle and easy to travel by car off the A605 it makes it convenient place to be. All our staff are level 3 qualified and with it being a staff run business; customer fitness goals and needs really are of the highest concern.

The club aims to provide facilities and classes for all to use regardless of your fitness background and with our latest push on the Exercise referral scheme through GP’s it is really helping improve the health of the community. The latest big incentive that has been put in place is the Gold membership giving all members on this membership their classes for free. There have been recent investments into the club with brand new E-series Matrix bikes and Screens fitted to the bikes for that extra experience. The club doesn’t charge for the programme design or Induction and so is easy to get started and joined without any hidden costs. The website for Oundle fitness will contain all of the information on classes and the opening hours as well as where to find them.

So why not have a look today www.oundlefitness.com.

Why let your health & fitness wait for tomorrow!

THE HAnDMADE EMPORiUM Beautiful gifts, handmade in the UK. Rebecca Holder founded her business to provide those looking for unique and beautiful gifts a range of ways to give someone a really special, really personal gift.

The illustration and animation graduate started the business three years ago in Oundle and now trades exclusively online.

She provides silver jewellery designed by Lynne Girdwood with beachcombing finds from around Loch Fyne, funky pop jewellery from Peterborough’s Jaye Wood, plus a range of soap slices, bath bombs and sea salts made by Rebecca herself in-house.

“All products are unique, hand-made and use ethically sourced products.” says Rebecca. “We forage flowers and other ingredients, we produce in artisan quantities and ensure no preservatives, SLS or other nasties make their way into our products.”

“We’ve a range of bags, accessories and other products and with prices from under £10 to about £75, there’s something for any budget, no matter who you’re looking to find something special for.”

For more information see www.thehandmadeemporium.com.

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EnjOy... Oundle

The sights of

Oundle

A beautiful market town with stone houses built over 300 years ago; there’s a medley of narrow alleyways and courtyards to explore in this Saxon village...

Words: Ceri Jackson.

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EnjOy... Oundle

Historic treasures in a stone built market town...

Home to the World’s Conker Championships, Oundle is a delightful and beautiful market town which has served the surrounding valleys since the Saxon times... you’d have to be ‘conkers’ not to visit the home of the World Conker Championships!

Especially when it is a beautiful, stone built historic market town surrounded on three sides by the River Nene.

Many of the stone houses are over 300 years old, and are divided by narrow alleys and courtyards where you can see the spire of Oundle parish church. Many of the older properties are owned by the prestigious Oundle Public School which was re-endowed in 1556 by William Laxton, the town’s grocer who later became the Lord Mayor of London.

OLDEST inn in TOwn

With a population of less than 6,000 - you should not be deceived by size as there is plenty to do! Oundle has a quaint market place, where you will find bespoke shops, tea rooms and a number of traditional pubs where you can enjoy a bite to eat. One of the most interesting old inns is the Talbot Hotel, which was rebuilt in 1626 with stone and fittings from Fotheringhay Castle. Little now remains of the Castle, except for a mound which lies next to Fotheringhay Church, about four miles north-east of the town.

If you want to delve in to the history of the town, there is a small museum housed in the former courthouse with exhibits from the Roman, Saxon and Medieval periods.

Every Thursday there is a lively market, and there is a Farmer’s Market on the second Saturday of every month where you can buy local produce.

You should also walk along the River Nene, which will lead you to the old mill in Barnwell, where you can also delight in the walks round Barnwell Country Park, and feed the ducks!

Oundle Farmer’ s Market From a pig roast to locally-produced speciality sausages, Oundle Farmer’s Market has it all!

Held on the second Saturday of every month from 9am to 2pm, there are over 35 stalls offering a huge range of produce. Sample pasteurised goats cheese from Teifi Valley Dairy or fresh fish from Western and Long. Or treat someone to seasonal flowers from Manor Farm. Other produce includes bread, fruit and vegetables, preserves, chocolate, game, meats and poultry.

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History: One of England’s first buildings to be classified as a Grade I property, the Talbot Hotel dates back to the 7th Century AD. It is famous for incorporating stone from Fotheringhay in 1630, and the staircase is believed to have been used by Mary Queen of Scots when descending to her execution on 8th February 1587. History reputes that an imprint on one of the staircase’s newel posts is of the Queen's ring.

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THinGS TO DO...

A league of their own...

World Conker Championships...

Photographs courtesy of Ashton Conker Club.

The first recorded game of conkers is believed to have taken place in the Isle of Wight back in 1848, and today Oundle plays host to the annual World Conker Championships. They have certainly come a long way since their beginning in 1965.

game of conkers for a small prize. A collection was also made for charity by someone with a blind relative.

The horse chestnut tree was first introduced to Britain from the Balkans in the late 16th century, but it wasn’t until about 200 years later the fruits of this tree were used to play conkers.

Today the championships are an annual event with increasing numbers, and they have raised £339,000 for the National Institute for the Blind. Over the years there have been entries from all over the world, and in 1976 the title went overseas for the first time to Mexico. In 1998 there were nearly fifty players from overseas.

Fast forward to 1965, where a group of regulars at the local pub were on Ashton village green surrounded by horse chestnut trees, their fishing trip thwarted by bad weather.

So they decided to start a

Since 2009, the event takes place in Southwick near Oundle to accommodate even more players.

A ladies event has been introduced, and the junior competitions

have three sections which attract neighbouring schools.

This year the championships will be held on 12th October, and you can enjoy stalls, tea and home made cakes, a Guide Dog demonstration, Peterborough Morris Men, traditional games and other attractions such as a bouncy castle and bucking bronco, and children’s Art Exhibition in the church.

There will be live music at the local pub, the Shuckburgh Arms from the afternoon until late, so you will be sure to have an enjoyable afternoon and evening.

Visit Barnwell County Park and explore 15 hectares of beautiful lakes, ponds, meadows & riverbanks. Half a mile from oundle, there are is wealth of trails, wildlife and facilities - providing a great day out for all the family. There’s designated picnic and BBQ areas, and a children's play area, an orienteering trail and two wheelchair accessible bird hides. A pay and display carpark is open 24 hours a day; it’s free for pedestrians, cyclists, buses and mini-buses.

Take part in the Oundle Treasure Trail - a fun way to explore the town’s water meadows, river bank and country park. Follow the trail and solve the clues to find Jack Tar’s Inca gold! The Trail takes about two and a half hours and can be downloaded and printed at home, or ordered as a booklet from the Treasure Trails website online at www.treasuretrails.co.uk Visit the award winning accredited Oundle Museum with displays about the town’s history from the prehistoric to modern times. There is also a changing exhibition room so there is always something new to see. The museum is open on Saturdays 11am to 5pm and Sundays/Bank Holidays from 2pm to 5pm.

Admission and car parking is free.

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Spring Dining As you walk along the River Nene, be sure to visit the Oundle Mill, Restaurant of the Year in the Carlsberg UK Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards for 2013/2014.

The Mill sits on the banks adjacent to the Upper Barnwell Lock. It dates from the 17th century and is built of local limestone with a Collyweston slate roof. It was first converted into a restaurant in 1969 and passed through a number of hands before it was purchased by Agellus Hotels.

Head Chef, Gavin Austin, and his team have created a menu which is both exciting and contemporary their downstairs informal rustic bar and upstairs elegant restaurant both offer views over the river.

Dexters is a restaurant, coffee shop and bar described as; “A chameleon, from day to night, from weekday to weekend.” The restaurant has a lively buzz, and is large enough to tuck yourself away for a cosy lunch date, or you can sit outside on a sunny day in the charming courtyard and enjoy a

Transition Oundle

Recommended restaurants and perfect pubs, including a retro 1960’s inspired diner!

Forthcoming Events...

25th April, Literature Festival Enjoy a Christopher Coker Author event, presented by the Oundle Literature Festival at St Peter’s Church at 7.45pm.

coffee with friends. The restaurant area offers relaxed, chic and sophisticated dining with a fresh, tasty menu of modern classics and other favourites.

Before you leave Oundle, be sure to head back to the 1960’s! Well 62 Love Me Do to be exact: a 1960’s themed diner with a cool interior adding a touch of colour to the town. They have an unusual style, with a mouth watering American style menu featuring a whole range of foods like burgers, hotdogs, sundaes and more.

PiCK OF THE PROPERTy

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winwiCK - £2.2M

POLEBROOK - £895,000

Situated in grounds of 3.4 acres, Luddington Hall is a stunning, recently constructed residence with eight bedrooms and four bathrooms.

Visit www.fineandcountry.co.uk.

Brook Farm House is the perfect residence with epic proportions and is situated within a number of desirable of villages.

Visit www.hendersonconnellan.co.uk.

Find out about his book Men At War where Christopher discusses some of the most famous fictional creations and their impact on our understanding of war and masculinity. Tickets are £7.

7th May, Horticultural Society The Care and Cultivation of Fuchsia Enjoy an illustrated talk by Malcolm Beerman about Encliandra Fuchsia Topiar at the Methodist Church Hall on Drummingwell Lane from 7.45pm to 9.15pm. It costs £3 for visitors, including free light refreshments. For more information please call 01832 272623.

7th May, Transition Oundle The Women’s Tour cycling event will set off from Oundle on May 7th, where 102 of the best female riders, including past and current Olympic and World Championship medallists from across the world will be representing 17 trade and national teams.

There will also be a town party on the afternoon and evening of 6th May, with lots of bike related activities to get you in the mood for cycling. Transition Oundle will be co-ordinating the events on New Street, including safe cycling training, have a go bikes, bike fix stands and second hand bike sales. Visit www.oundleonyourbike.org.uk for more information.

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Find your perfect holiday with your local, independent & friendly travel experts

SPOTLiGHT On BUDAPEST S

tylish, attractive, relatively unspoilt and gateway to East Europe, Budapest is a hot destination at the moment.

After centuries of destructive wars followed by dramatic rebuilds this city offers an eclectic collection of architectural styles ranging from Roman ruins to Turkish, neo-Gothic, Art nouveau and Stalinist block house chic.

The city's restaurants and bars follow the eclectic party line too with quality offerings from goulash to sushi, premium lagers to exotic cocktails and giant café lattes for your wake up call before hitting the sensational thermal baths. Public transport is efficient, easy and good value and the ambience is free.

Budapest is a merger of two towns, Buda on the hilly, quietly regal west bank of the Danube River and busy Pest on the east. Buda: Budapest - unlike Prague - is big enough to absorb the tourist crowds except in Buda's Castle District where the stunning views from Fisherman's Bastion are the premier attraction and night-time floodlights turn the area into a Disney fantasy.

Among other Buda offerings are walks on the old castle ramparts, the Royal Palace and its museums, 700 year old Matthias Church, the underground Labyrinth, the Citadella and the thermal baths in the superb Art Nouveau Gellert Hotel.

Don't miss Statue Park, a collection of monumental Soviet era mega-heroes set in stone. Pest is the place for shopping, bopping and neo-neo land, including the neo-Renaissance State Opera House and St Stephen's Basilica, neo-Gothic Parliament and neo-Classical National Museum. Margaret Island is for culture day release, an oasis of trees, flowers, swimming pools, spa hotels and a theatre with musical evenings. Bicycles are available for rent.

With a wide range of hotel options available to suit all budgets, it is the perfect short break destination. For something special try the 5* Boscolo Budapest this hotel is truly spectacular and is one of Budapest’s finest buildings, brought back to its original splendour combining antique with contemporary design, the focal point of the hotel is the historic New York Café which was the centre of Budapest’s vibrant artistic and cultural life at the turn of the 20th Century Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 – From £576.00 per person.

For a smaller property The Three Corners Art Hotel is a 3* hotel that is hard to beat, friendly staff offer a warm welcome and is a great for a modern convenient base in the heart of this beautiful city – From £389.00 per person.

For up to date prices please contact Oundle Travel who will be happy to advise on 01832 273600. www.oundletravel.co.uk.

01832 273600 market Place, oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EA Email: sales@oundletravel.co.uk Website: www.oundletravel.co.uk

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OUnDLE CLOCK SHOP & grEEn mAn AnTiQuES Oundle Clock Shop is a family business. The name of S.G.DYSON above the window was Jo's grandfather who was a cabinetmaker and furniture retailer, he started the business in 1929, which ran until 1952 when Jos father Emil Skiba continued in the shop as a clock /watchmaker and jeweller. Jo and Garry have been running the business since 2002. Both of them repair and restore all timepieces and barometers.

Garry or Jo will give advise and guidance on restoration and repair of your own clocks or watches. Specialising in the restoration of both mechanical and casework, taking care to keep as much originality as possible We sell a great selection of individual pieces with prices to suit most pockets. All our timepieces come with guarantees and our helpful staff are always willing to help and advise the customer. Good off street parking.

Longcases from our region are most interesting, we have Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Leicestershire makers, these all come fully restored, delivered free within 50 miles and guaranteed for three years.

The social history of being a custodian of a timepiece that has marked time for over two hundred years and will carry on for generations to come is very special.

Vintage Watches Bought and Sold, large range of all leading makers including; Longine, Omega, Rolex etc.

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Just opposite the clock shop is Green Man Antiques which has good variety of Furniture, Silver, Jewellery and collectibles. Jo's daughter Vicky will be pleased to help you buy a gift that can be cherished for a lifetime.

We are finding that more and more people want to invest their money in antiques and so we try and stock furniture that is functional whilst being individual or unusual. Period antiques that can compliment 21st century technology and style for everyone to enjoy and appreciate.

Specialising in 17th-19th century furniture, mahogany, walnut and oak, Georgian silver, fine china, and decorative glass. Furniture restoration and upholstery work undertaken.

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OUNDLE & THRAPSTON VETERINARY SURGERIES...

ARE AN INDEPENDENT FAMILY BUSINESS WHICH GREATLY VALUES ITS PLACE IN THE COMMUNITY DELIVERING THE LATEST MEDICAL TREATMENT AND PREVENTIVE HEALTH ADVICE FOR SMALL ANIMALS. Partners Nick Park and Natalie Sampson are at the helm and together with their team are keen to offer a gold standard service in a caring environment. Our Pet Healthcare Plans enable clients to budget monthly for routine preventative care which together with our popular Parasite Package and seasonal promotions enable affordable care alongside the latest in laser and diagnostic technology to give your pets the very best.

We believe our pets are members of the family and deserve to be treated as such. Our highly skilled nurses offer free and comprehensive advice starting from when you are considering what pet or breed to choose, through to weight clinics, diabetes monitoring and blood pressure monitoring later in life. We believe in giving our clients and their pets the best customer care and endeavour to try to make their visit to the vets as enjoyable and informative as possible.

THE BEST OF

MARCH

APRIL

RUTLAND & STAMFORD

2014

MARCH

APRIL

2014 THE BEST OF

RUTLAND & STAMFORD

EVERY SINGLE MONTH

RutlandPride

RutlandPride

THE NUMBER ONE COUNTY MAGAZINE

MAGAZINE ONE COUNTY THE NUMBER

Restaurant of the Month

STA PLE FOR D PAR K

Restaurant of the Month

MAR QUE SS OF EXE TER

£3.70

& Drink Spring Weddings - Food On Motors - Fashion - What’s

Great Days Out for Familie

What’s On this Summers

Spring Dining The county’s best restaurants {Page 18}

Bright colours for your home {Page 52}

Fashion from local retailers {Page 116}

Oundle Exploring our market towns {Page 15}

Eating Out Spring dining in Rutland {Page 20}

£3.70

x Spring Style

Spring Homes 20 pages of home ideas {Page 52}

Advertise in the number one county magazine.

To discover how we can boost your sales, call our friendly team now.

01529 469977 www.rutlandpride.co.uk

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COVERING R UTLAND AND STAMFORD

Countryside Crafts

Willow Weaving

STAMFORD UTLAND AND COVERING R

xxx

Spring Homes

EVERY SINGLE MONTH

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FinE DininG in WERRinGTOn

Cherry House...

“British fine dining, with a respectful nod to classic French cuisine.” That’s how chef patron of Werrington’s Cherry House describes his food. This month we enjoy a meal in his quaint thatched cottage restaurant near Peterborough...

Timbale: One of our starters was this nest of Scottish smoked salmon served as a timbale with celeriac. It’s filled with prawns and decorated with smoked salmon rosettes.

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RESTAURAnT OF THE MOnTH

Left: This month will see asparagus with poached duck egg served on a ragout of seasonal mushrooms and a potato rösti.

Right: The restaurant is over 400 years old and is constructed of local stone, whitewashed, with a pretty thatched roof.

W Left/Above: Sautéed supreme of chicken with baby vegetables.

Below: One of our desserts was an assiette of raspberry with créme brûlée, home made ice cream and raspberry mille-feuille of layered brandy snaps.

hilst some restaurants express a desire to be known as offering quality food in a less formal environment, others are keener to be known as fine dining establishments. The phrase alone sets a pretty high benchmark, and with much competition, the claim of fine dining necessitates not just exceptional food but service and a dining room to match, too.

Werrington’s Cherry House Restaurant is undoubtedly one of the prettiest restaurants for miles around; 400 years old and with a neat whitewashed exterior and thatched roof.

Chef patron Andrew Corrick this year celebrates his 20th anniversary at the restaurant. By the time he arrived at the venue in 1994, Cherry House had already been a post office, butcher’s shop and a farm house. It was originally part of an estate well known for farming Werrington Cherries, hence its name.

Devon born Andrew arrived in Peterborough via both his native Sidmouth, and later, a spell in Knightsbridge, settling in Werrington and taking over what was then a restaurant that was a little dated. His vision was to transform the restaurant into a cosy, fine dining establishment that would provide high quality food just a few minutes from Peterborough’s city centre in an environment that looks like it should in the middle of the countryside.

His vision has been realised with a table d’hôte menu served during both lunchtime and evening service, and from this month an additional set lunch menu offering particular speed of service, designed to appeal to the area’s business community. There’s also a dedicated Sunday lunch menu, too.

The TDH menu is £26.95 for three courses and comprises a choice of five starters and six main course options.

There’s also two steak options and a Chateaubriand with supplements. Home made desserts or cheese and coffee with hand made petit fours are also included.

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Sample M enu

Table D’ H ôte M enu £26.95/three courses £ STARTERS Salmon £3.95 Supplement nest of Scottish smoked salmon and celeriac filled with prawns and decorated with smoked salmon rosettes.

Parfait Home made chicken liver parfait with onion marmalade and toasted brioche.

Soup Cream of fresh celery and pear soup served with crispy croutons.

£ MAinS Beef £7.00 Supplement Tournedos of British beef fillet topped with a cashel blue cheese soufflé coated in rich Calvados jus.

Sea Bass grilled fillet of sea bass nestled on a bed of pak choi with a light chilli and sweet pepper salsa.

Veal Breaded escalope of Dutch veal with potato gnocchi, served in a creamy sauce with peas, leeks and bacon lardons.

£ PUDDinG Puddings and Cheese Choice of homemade desserts or a selection of French & British cheeses served with biscuits.

£ SERviCE TiMES Lunch: Tuesday - Saturday: 12noon - 2.30pm.

Sunday: 12noon - 3pm.

Evening: Tuesday - Saturday: 6pm-10pm.

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RESTAURAnT OF THE MOnTH

Menus change fortnightly, and during our visit on a particularly overcast and grotty day, a robust choice lifted our spirits nicely. Starters included a timbale of Scottish salmon with alternating layers of celeriac and prawns. For our main courses, we enjoyed a supreme of chicken served with a reduction and baby vegetables.

An additional option, however, was our vegetarian dish. It’s a ragout of seasonal mushrooms served on a potato rösti with a poached duck egg and asparagus out of season during our visit, but due in when this edition comes out - sourced from the silty soils of the restaurant’s local farms.

Desserts are a treat at the venue, too. Our first option was a raspberry assiette, lovely and zesty, with great colours. Comprising créme brûlée, raspberry millefeuille and home made ice cream with a brandy snap, it was neatly presented, not too heavy and nicely decorated with sprigs of fresh mint, berries and marbled raspberry and cream compote. An additional dessert option is our sticky toffee pudding, served with a vanilla pod and home made ice cream - a really warm and welcoming pudding during our chilly visit.

Andrew is a real wine buff, so there’s a thoughtfully chosen list of 49 bins wines, from the usual new and old world varietals to more unconventional wines like the Brazilian Merlot, shown with our vegetarian dish.

Understandably, Andrew is a keen advocate of local produce and uses Grasmere Farm for pork - they’re generally regarded as the area’s best supplier - whilst

Stilton butchers and Wisbech veg supplier Barsby provide additional ingredients.

Bread at the restaurant is baked in-house, whilst petit fours and all other elements of your meal are freshly prepared by Andrew plus two chefs including locally educated head chef David Marshall.

“I came from a foody family.” says Andrew. “I’ve two brothers who are also chefs. Food was always important to us, it was an occasion to get together as a family. More than anything it was the dining occasion; the combination of food, drink, the company - and when we run restaurants, it’s about all of these things, and good service too.”

This month sees the village restaurant launching its new lunchtime dining menus, with Andrew and his team hoping to capitalise on Peterborough’s proximity.

It’s especially popular with staff at the local hospital, and he’s so grateful for their custom that Andrew is donating a percentage of this year’s takings to his local Trust’s Charitable Fund in 2014.

Looking ahead, the restaurant will be popular for spring and summer dining too, and it’ll look really appealing in the warmer months when its large garden and terrace area are bathed in sunlight. Offering a great location and proximity to Peterborough, plus great service and a fine dining menu in a pretty venue, Cherry House is definitely on our must-visit list for anyone seeking enjoyable, high quality spring dining.

CHERRY HOUSE

Werrington, near Peterborough

125 Church St, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6QF To book a meal call

01733 571721 How do I get there? From Oakham’s Catmos Road, head South and exit the town on the B641 and at the roundabout, take the A606 signposted Stamford Road. Continue on the A606 for around

five miles, then turn left onto Sidney Farm Lane, merging with the A1 south signposted London.

After 6.5 miles, take the A47 exit signposted Peterborough (North)/Leicester.

Exit at Junction 19 after just over eight miles.

At the roundabout take the first exit onto Fulbridge Road. Turn left onto the Green and continue to Church Street Werrington.

The restaurant is on the left hand side.

Find out more online at www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

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Dining | Accommodation

Come Dine With Us...

Enjoy high quality pub restaurant dining: Steak Night Wednesday ÂŁ35/couple inc choice of steaks and glass of wine or beer.

Now serving food all day Friday to Sunday

The Royal Oak High Street, Duddington PE9 3QE Tel: 01780 444267 www.theroyaloakduddington.com

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qUALiTy BiSTRO DininG in OAkHAM

Eat in at Otters

A move to new premises at the end of 2012 enabled Otters Smokehouse & Deli on Oakham’s Mill Street to expand its range of smoked fish, meat and cheese.

It also facilitated the creation of an excellent bistro.

If you’re shopping in Oakham this month, stop by for a bite to eat, or a lunchtime treat...

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RESTAURAnT OF THE MOnTH

Left: The deli sells smoked fish and English and Continental cheese as well as items like fresh olives.

Above: Otters has a 24 seater bistro for daytime dining.

Left: Three cheese tart with leek, spinach and tomato.

Opposite: Fishcakes with sweet chilli sauce and French fries.

W

e’ve already championed Otters Smokehouse and Deli as both a place to purchase the freshest smoked fish, cheese and meats, not to mention its role as a provider of the highest quality deli produce, hampers & gift ideas at Christmas. But this spring, we’d like to remind all of our readers that it’s also a great place to enjoy really good lunchtime dining.

You’ll enjoy Otters’s bistro by way of a main menu, served from 11.30-3pm, and a morning and afternoon menu from 9.00-11.30am then 3.00-5.30pm. Customers pop into Otters whilst shopping on Mill Street for anything from freshly ground coffee and a home made cake, to a deli breakfast or full lunch.

Unsurprisingly, the deli’s cheese and smoked fish products have a strong presence of the menu, with four fish platters, two cheese platters and charcuterie all available.

There’s a choice of nine sandwiches, pâté, casseroles and a choice of eight salads available. The business is run by Leo Sugden, who saw a gap in the market for a high quality deli which really values regional food, in 2011. He set the business up in his original Mill Street premises but was caught unaware by how popular it would be, and how quickly the business would grow.

Less than a year later he had to expand and moved to new premises, doubling the size of the business and creating the bistro.

The business is allied to a Suffolk smokehouse which has been established for around 70 years, and Otters stocks both smoked and unsmoked cheese both from local suppliers and international fromageries too.

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Sample M enu £ BREAKFAST Poached Eggs £3.95 Two poached eggs on toasted sourdough bread. Also available with smoked salmon (£5.95) or Alderton Ham (£5.65).

Croissants £2.75 Filled with Butler’s Secret award winning mature cheddar and Alderton Ham.

£ PLATTERS Three Cheese Platter £9.45 Platter of three cheeses, served with sourdough or multigrain bread, or biscuits.

Choose from Snowdonia Black Bomber, Brie de meaux, Chevre Log goats cheese, Fourme d’Ambert, Colston Bassett or Cropwell Bishop Stilton, and Delice de Bourgogne.

Mixed Fish Platter £10.85/£19.75 for 2 Selection of smoked salmon, smoked trout, smoked mackerel and smoked prawns with mixed leaf salad and multigrain or sourdough bread.

Charcuterie Platter £8.95/£15.85 for 2 Parma ham and chorizo, served on a wooden board with cornishons, putternesca olives and roasted artichoke hearts with mixed leaf salad and multigrain or sourdough bread.

£ OTHER DiSHES Savoury Tart £6.55 Choice of ham, leek, mushroom & tomato, smoked salmon with asparagus & courgette, charcuterie with chorizo and semi-dried tomato or three cheese with leek, spinach and tomato.

Deli Ham Sandwich £5.65 Alderton smoked ham with 12 month mature cheddar and wholegrain mustard on Hambleton Bakery seven-cereal bread.

Soup made fresh each day served with multigrain or sourdough bread.

£5.25

£ SERviCE TiMES Main menu between 11.30am-3pm, morning and afternoon menu served from 9am-11.30am, 3pm-5.30pm.

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RESTAURAnT OF THE MOnTH

Otters’s other deli suppliers contribute to the menu too, with Long Clawson dairy, Belvoir Cordials and Rick Stein food hero Alderton supplying ham.

Everything you can order from the fairly extensive menu is made freshly in house, and during our visit, we enjoyed vibrant fishcakes served with french fries and sweet chilli sauce, plus one of Otters’s home made savoury tartlets with three cheeses, leek, spinach and tomato.

We enjoy a three cheese platter with Brie de Meaux, plus a rather more local Red Leicester and Stilton from Colston Bassett.

The bistro is also licensed and has a range of wines and beers to enjoy with your lunch, but we eschewed alcohol in favour of a freshly brewed teapig and a warm orange flavoured muffin which had just been baked in house.

With just 24 covers, the venue is justly popular, but Leo assures us that visitors are rarely waiting more than 10 minutes for a table, even during busy periods.

With great presentation, a long list of ingredients with true provenance and great service, we’re happy to recommend the venue for a great lunchtime dining experience!

OTTERS DELI Mill Street, Oakham

Otters Deli & Smokehouse 19 Mill St, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6EA For more information call

01572 756481

How do I get there?

Otters Deli & Smokehouse is based on Oakham’s Mill Street. Enter the town via the B668 and park in the Brooke Road car park or just off Burley Road.

Find out more online at www.ottersdeli.co.uk

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spring dining: Cornish crab starter with pickled cucumber and preserved lemon mayonnaise.

fine dining for spring at

Stapleford Park Our last visit to Stapleford saw Martin Furlong, head up the kitchen at the country house hotel, between Grantham and Melton Mowbray.

Six months on, we went along to see how the dining room has changed under his tenure...

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restaUrant of tHe MontH

Left: Loin of venison with chestnut purée, parsnips and Savoy cabbage. right: The Grinling Gibbons dining room received a facelift a few months ago and is a comfortable, plush environment in which to enjoy Stapleford’s fine dining à la carte menu.

above: Stapleford Park’s comfortable lounge.

Left: Pan fried sea bream with clam and spring onion chowder.

Below: Our chocolate mousse dessert was a rich, dark treat with Grand Marnier ice cream.

O

ur last visit to the beautiful country estate of Stapleford Park occurred just over six months or so ago. At that time, Martin Furlong was preparing to take the reins from previous Head Chef Dave Ellams.

This month we paid the venue another visit to see how Martin has influenced the 11 strong brigade, and to find out what will be on the restaurant’s spring menus.

Dating back to 1336, the country house was reconstructed in 1633 and was extended in 1894 when owner Lord Gretton added the grand looking frontage you’ll see today... that is, once you’ve swept past the estate’s church, through the leafy grounds, under the archway and through the wrought iron gates to reach the main entrance.

Flanked by parterre hedging with a Union Flag flying, it’s a grand façade and it’s just as grand inside, with a large reception hall, massive inner hall with grand staircase, champagne bar, lounge, and the main Grinling Gibbons dining room, named after the architect whose carvings dominate a comfortable and plush place to dine, with crisp linens and polished silver.

The restaurant definitely qualifies as fine dining, with its à la carte restaurant menu available from 6-9.30pm seven days and for Sunday lunch from 12 noon to 2.30pm.

Stapleford Park has phased out lunchtime dining in the Grinling Gibbons, but has refreshed its Pavillion clubhouse used by its golfers, to offer a less formal alternative.

There are seven starters, eight main courses and six desserts on the evening menu, evolving constantly, and prepared by a very dedicated team which produces everything from bread to petit fours in house.

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Sample M enu £ STARTERS rabbit terrine Pressing of milk-fed rabbit with golden sultana and carrot salad.

£10

trout Rilette of sea trout with roquette mousse and crème frâiche.

£10

foie gras £12 Pan fried foie gras with caramelised pear, quince purée, and hazelnut dressing.

£ MAINS duck Barbury duck breast with crispy duck leg, caramelised turnip, root vegetables and confit potatoes.

£22

Venison £31 Loin of venison with chestnut purée, parsnips and Savoy cabbage.

Mackerel Scottish mackerel with warm potato salad and horseradish.

£20

Châteaubriand For two with dauphinoise potato, béarnaise and seasonal vegetables.

£60

£ PUDDING assiette of Citrus £9.50 Trio of citrus with lemon tart, blood orange jelly and citrus pastilles.

Cheesecake Vanilla cheesecake with blueberries and sloe gin.

£9.50

soufflé Apple crumble soufflé with apple sorbet and English custard.

£9.50

Cheese Board Selection of British and French cheeses with grape chutney.

£15

£ OPENING TIMES À la carte served daily between 6.00-9.30pm, seven days a week.

Sunday lunch service 12noon-2.30pm.

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restaUrant of tHe MontH

“Spring is a great month to dine at Stapleford Park.” says Martin. “We’ve a range of lamb dishes, with asparagus, berries and rhubarb all grown in the area.

We’re currently looking to start a herb garden and grow a little more of our produce on the estate itself, but for now, we’ve some excellent suppliers.”

During our visit, we enjoyed a light, fresh starter of Cornish crab served with pickled cucumber and preserved lemon mayonnaise, as well as a pressing of milk fed rabbit terrine with carrot salad.

Our main courses were sea bream served with clam & spring onion chowder, and loin of venison sourced from Peterborough Game with a beautiful, bright accompaniment of chestnut purée, parsnips and Savoy cabbage.

Our desserts beautifully demonstrate Martin’s insistence that his menus should feature, at the same time, a few options that are more formal, with immaculate presentation, like our glossy, rich chocolate mousse, as well as dishes that look a little more deconstructed; in our case a lemon tart with caramelised top, berry pastilles and blood orange jelly.

It’s a colourful, dramatic and fun dessert that looks brilliant and boasts some really powerful flavours.

Definitely a recommendation for spring dining!

The restaurant’s wine list is nothing short of an education, with around 300 bins, priced from a merry £30 to extravagant bottles weighing in at several thousand pounds from the owner’s private cellars.

Not only is the hotel one of the best dining rooms in the area, there’s also plenty to do during a weekend treat or a day visit during the warmer weather.

Falconry, shooting, off-road driving, golf on the hotel’s Capability Brown landscaped course or a treatment or two in the hotel’s Clarins spa - based in the old stables - make Stapleford Park a must-visit venue, even beyond the excellent dining on offer.

During our visit a guest was waiting in reception for his partner to join him. We struck up a conversation and I asked if it was his first time at the venue.

“Oh yes. We come from Yorkshire, and we had no idea it existed. We sort of stumbled across it. Its absolutely wonderful. Great food and an absolutely gorgeous place!” we grinned and nodded knowingly.

His reaction is typical of someone emerging from the peaceful, luxurious and high end (but still great value) hotel. It’s so close to home, but it feels like it’s a million miles away. If you haven’t been for a while, do treat yourself to a visit this spring!

STAPLEFORD PARK HOTEL stapleford, near Melton Mowbray

Stapleford Park Country House Hotel & Sporting Estate Stapleford, Melton Mowbray Leicestershire, LE14 2EF To book a meal call

Getting There Easily: Travelling from Rutland take the B640. At the junction with the A606, take the first exit signposted Nottingham. After five miles, at the crossroads, turn right signposted Whissendine. Turn left onto Whissendine Road signposted Little Dalby after another mile. Then follow the brown signs for Stapleford Park.

01572 787000

www.staplefordpark.com

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TheWineCellar

By George! English wines? The French may well think les rostbifs are on a hiding to nothing, but we know differently! On St George’s Day, the 23rd April, we think an English tipple is just the thing to quench your thirst for wine and patriotism!

Our Gift Subscriptions last a whole year

Jenkyn Place Brut 2009 Sparkling White £28.50

Chapel Down English Rose 2012 £10.99

Bolney Estate Cuvée Noir Brut 2010 £20.99

Meopham Valley Sparkling Rosé Brut 2009 £23.49

Henners Brut Vintage Sparkling 2009 £27

The idea of English ‘champagne’ is probably enough to make the French faint. But whilst champagne retains protected geographic status, Hampshire’s blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier is produced on chalky terroir so it’s as authentic as the real stuff in all but name.

A true ‘English rose’ with aromas reminiscent of strawberries, redcurrants and hawthorn. The palate is delicate and soft with enticing fruit characters and nicely balanced acidity. Great served chilled with a barbecue and a salad on a summer afternoon, blending pinot noir and rondo.

How’s this for an rebellious wine? An English drop that’s also a sparkling red!

Warm aromas of stone fruits and ripe blueberries lead to a wonderful creamy richness from an 18 month ageing and a lingering summer fruit palate with a hint of spice on the finish - almost like a summer pudding.

A sparkling rosé produced in Kent that’s a real treat for the summer months.

With pinot noir and chardonnay grapes it has a fruity strawberry and raspberry scent, a ceaseless mousse and a dry, sophisticated flavour.

It’s also really lovely with seafood or strawberries and cream.

Another English ‘champagne’ in all but geography, produced in East Sussex. This one invokes the English countryside with aromas of elderflower and citrus.

Wonderfully balanced with flavour of verbena, apples and brioche.

A fabulous fizz for this summer’s parties!

every single month in 2014!

Our featured wines are available from the county’s best independent wine merchants, or buy directly from their respective vineyards.

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reCipes

Local Asparagus

The Taste of Saint

George

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right: Visit a farm shop like Abbey Parks for the freshest, highest quality asparagus.

Below: It’s good to support growers like Farndon Fields.

I

t’s one thing we Brits do best… Asparagus. Just ask St George this month; our crop is hailed by leading chefs as the best in the world, so be sure you don’t miss out on its relatively short season of just seven to eight wonderful weeks.

Think summer... think asparagus!

St George’s Day, on 23rd April, represents the beginning of the English asparagus season - but how to use a bumper crop?

Our recipes suggest ways of employing one of the most eagerly anticipated vegetables of the spring and summer months...

Forget enjoying asparagus just once or maybe twice when it’s in season, this sensational home-grown ‘super food’ comes packed with nutrients, bursting with taste… and a surprising sexual punch! A truly versatile veg, asparagus is delicious in all sorts of different dishes – for lunch, dinner and even breakfast!

For those who’ve only ever considered asparagus as a luxurious accompaniment to a main course, it’s time to think again! There are numerous ways to taste British asparagus and when it’s on the shelves, there’s absolutely no reason why it can’t be enjoyed two or three times a week (or even everyday!) in all sorts of recipes, perfect for every meal time.

How about a lazy Sunday brunch of scrambled eggs topped with

melt-in-the-mouth asparagus spears tossed in butter? Or a light lunch of asparagus, bacon and poached egg salad with a mustard dressing?

The options are endless for dinner; why not whip up an asparagus, tomato and mozzarella pizza for the family or impress dinner guests with pan fried fillet of beef with roasted asparagus and red pepper and horseradish hollandaise?

Asparagus is traditionally served simply steamed or lightly boiled and is delicious either way, but it can also be roasted, chargrilled, barbecued or stir-fried. Or how about the easiest way of them all, simply eating asparagus raw, in a summer salad?

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reCipes

Local Asparagus

“You can also substitute the goats’ cheese with a good Montgomery cheddar or some rich blue cheese such as Roquefort...”

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ASPArAGuS tart witH roCket A great option for a healthy summer lunch. It’s hugely versatile as really you can add almost any topping to it and use the oven or grill as your vehicle to make it wonderfully gooey and crispy...

Serves Four Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients 1 tbsp flour 375g ready rolled puff pastry Half a bundle (approx. 125g) British asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2 inch pieces Salt for seasoning 3 tbsp (approx. 75g) sun dried tomatoes, roughly chopped, plus 1 tbsp oil from the jar 125g goats’ cheese, crumbled 2 handfuls of rocket Balsamic vinegar, to drizzle

Preheat the oven to 230°c. Cut the pastry into four rectangles and place onto a floured baking tray. Score the edge of each rectangle with a sharp knife.

Mix the asparagus with the sun dried tomatoes and a little of their oil. Divide the asparagus and tomatoes between the four pastry rectangles and top each with goat’s cheese.

Place in the oven for 12-15 minutes.

Remove from the oven. Toss the rocket in a little balsamic vinegar and place on top of the tartlets.

ASPArAGuS

Cigars Cooking time: 20 minutes Preparation time: 15 minutes Serves: 16 sharing

Ingredients 2 bundles of British asparagus 4 sheets of ready-made filo pastry 50g butter melted 2 handfuls of grated parmesan Salt and Black pepper

Pre-heat the oven to 190°c Cook the asparagus in well salted water, cooking it for only one or two minutes once it has come back to the boil.

Drain and cool the asparagus in cold water. Cut the asparagus 2/3 of the way down.

Take one sheet of filo pastry and brush it lightly but thoroughly all over with butter.

Cut each piece into four. Place each asparagus spear along the bottom of your filo piece and roll snugly but not over tightly.

Picking it up with your fingers brush the outside with butter again, then scatter the grated parmesan thoroughly over the top of each cigar. Season and bake for 15-18 minutes.

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reCipes

Local Asparagus

SOurDOuGH

eggs & HaM

Toasted sourdough bread is a great brunch option or a fabulous light lunch. Try this suggestion, served with grilled asparagus, Serrano ham and lovely yummy poached eggs...

Serves 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

Preheat the oven to a low heat, and whilst it’s warming up, put a medium sized pan of salted water on to boil, add a splash of vinegar.

2 bunches of asparagus trimmed 4 large free-range eggs 4 thick slices sourdough bread 4 to 8 slices Serrano or Black Forest ham Salt and cracked black pepper Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Put a griddle pan on to heat, when the pan starts to smoke, start grilling the asparagus.

You may need to cook this in two or three batches depending on the size of your griddle.

It will only take a couple of minutes for the asparagus to be cooked. Once all of the asparagus is cooked, season and set aside in the warm oven.

Top Tipple:

By now the water should be boiling. Crack the eggs one at a time carefully into the water. They will take a couple of minutes to cook. Start toasting the slices of sourdough.

By way of a wine tip, Dawn Davies, Sommelier at Selfridges in London suggests pairing this dish with a Chablis such as Alain Geoffrey – available from all good local wine retailers.

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Next, remove the eggs from the water.

Divide the toasted sourdough between four warm plates, then top with the ham, asparagus and a poached egg. Finish with cracked pepper and extra virgin olive oil.

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“One of the simplest methods to prepare asparagus is to steam for around three minutes until just tender and toss with a knob of butter, a little grated lemon zest (if you like citrus flavours) and a light sprinkle of sea salt...�

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“Try to enjoy your asparagus with a wine that doesn’ t conflict with its ‘ g reen flavour’ - Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, White Zinfandel, Beaujolais and Pinot Noir should all work very well...”

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reCipes

Local Asparagus

rIB-EyE STEAK

witH teriyaki saUCe This beautifully flavoured dish is ideal as a different way to present steak during barbecue season. It can be prepared in just 10 minutes which also makes it a quick, satisfying midweek meal...

Serves Two Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients For the Teriyaki sauce 75ml soy sauce 75ml mirin, Japanese sweet rice wine 75ml sake 1 tbsp sugar

For the rest 2 x 150g rib eye steaks 1 tbsp vegetable oil plus a dash more for cooking the British asparagus Sea salt and black pepper 1 packet of British asparagus, trimmed of woody ends Pinch of Togerashi seasoning (optional, you could also use cayenne pepper) White and black sesame seeds to serve.

To make the Teriyaki sauce, combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Stir the mixture well. Put it on medium heat and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for a couple minutes. Stop the heat and cool the mixture. It’s now ready to use but if you have any left you can store the sauce in a clean bottle in the fridge.

Heat a griddle pan until really hot and almost smoking. Rub the steaks with the oil, salt and pepper. Griddle the steaks for two minutes on each side so that they’re medium rare. Leave to rest. While the beef is resting rub the British asparagus with a little oil then lay on the griddle and grill for a couple of minutes, turning every now and then until they start to soften but still have ‘bite’ and have little chars on them.

Split the asparagus between two plates.

Carve the steaks into 1cm strips and lay on top of the Asparagus pouring over the meat juices left from resting. Cover each steak with a few tablespoons of Teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with the Togerashi if using and sesame seeds.

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AMERICAN TRAVEL Trafalgar are the specialists in North American travel and the 2014 USA and Canada programme features 52 trips to all corners of this fascinating continent including Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica. Included in the programme is Trafalgar’s newest Insider Experience, Authentic Accommodations – ranches, farms, historic houses and stately homes that give travellers insight into the destination through their remarkable architecture, rich historical background or magnificent location.

The 14 day Western Discover itinerary delves into the heartland of America’s West and explores glittering cities, sun drenched shores and some of the nation’s natural beauties.

Beginning in Los Angeles, guests will travel along the scenic parts of America’s West and marvel at great sights.

Key highlights on this trip include spectacular sights, such as, the Old Town and Balboa Park. A favourite experience of ours is where guests take a fragrant trip through the pine groves of Coconino National Forest where they then reach Sedona and witness the majestic Oak Creek Canyon.

Guests are joined by a Local Expert at the Grand Canyon where they are enlightened about the amazing geology of this natural wonder. This unique experience provides guests with a personal insight in to land and a deep connection and understanding of the Grand Canyon.

Throughout the journey to the beautiful Lake Powell, Zion National Park and then onwards to the glittering lights of Las Vegas, your expert Travel Director will reveal a Hidden Treasure. Guests will truly enjoy this surprise which is unique to this itinerary.

Part of our distinctive Insider Experiences is our Be My Guest dining experience. Guests arrive in Sonoma where they are welcomed to enjoy a lunch at a family owned winery. Guests not only delight in a delectable meal, they enjoy a private vineyard tour and wine tasting as well as the chance to sample locally produced olive oils.

£ SAVVI TRAVEL Savvi Travel can arrange a holiday for you: call your Travel Consultant on 01572 842012 for more information or pop into Savvi at 7 The Maltings, Oakham.

Find out more about this exciting itinerary and more, pop into Savvi or call us on 01572 842012 Agent.

Prices from £3075*pp, twin share.

Book and pay by 30 April to save up to £258* per couple.

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WELCOME HOME

The Grandeur of

ViCTOriAn STyle 52

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Masterpiece: Originally dating from 1864, the property is constructed of coarse limestone with a Collyweston stone roof, with a later brick wing to the rear. it is brimming with style and character from the Victorian era.

TOWngaTE HOusE, MarkE T DEEping

BACk in 1864, An ArChiTeCTurAl MASTerPieCe wAS BOrn. TOwnGATe hOuSe, An eleGAnT GrADe ii liSTeD ViCTOriAn BuilDinG, wAS renTeD FOr 100 yeArS, BeFOre A SuBSTAnTiAl renOVATiOn PrOJeCT reTurneD iT TO iTS FOrMer GlOry. in reSTOrinG The PrOPerTy’S OriGinAl FeATureS, neil AnD BeCky hAVe CreATeD A welCOMinG, One OF A kinD hOMe...

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W

hen Neil and Becky purchased Towngate House in 2006 they began what would be a major renovation project lasting a year. The couple, along with their four children, have lovingly restored this elegant Grade II listed Victorian farmhouse to an exceptional standard.

“Once the roof work was complete, we moved on to the house and renovated each room. Every wall was repaired, and the original Victorian ceilings and features were restored back to their former glory.”

Another extensive renovation was the kitchen.

Enlisting the help of Stamford based QKS, the original kitchen and scullery were knocked into one impressive large kitchen and breakfast room, the main

Above: The original kitchen and scullery were extensively renovated to become a large kitchen and breakfast room the main focal point of the property.

Dating from 1864, the house was rented out for over 100 years and was in a poor “We fell in love with the architectural beauty that the property condition. “In a way, the fact encompasses. The sheer grand scale of this property is absolutely that no one has owned the fantastic. It is truly unique, you’ll not find another one like it...” property for such a long time was great. A lot of the original features still remained throughout the house. focal point of the property. The cabinets are made of We fell in love with the architectural beauty that the hand painted solid oak wood, featuring an inch and property encompasses. The sheer scale and quality half thick marble toppers. The island has a built in is unbelievable. It truly is a magnificent and beautiful fridge and weighs a quarter of a tonne. It also boasts a building.” beautiful limestone floor and underfloor heating.

Concealed within the kitchen are a number of The roof was one of the biggest challenges to tackle, appliances including a dishwasher, an extra fridge and taking six workmen nine months to remove the induction hob. The kitchen also has French doors to the original Collyweston stone so they could renew, clean, extensive rear garden. There’s a separate utility room, trim and install them back on to the property. which is home to laundry equipment, a sink and two The front of the property boasts a colourful display of large walk-in store cupboards. limestone and the rear of the property, originally the The property has four reception rooms - currently servant quarters, features original brick work from a arranged as a sitting room, study, family room and later period. drawing room.

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WELCOME HOME WELCOME HOME

Above: The grand hall boasts original Victorian floor tiles and oak front door with chunky ironwork.

Above/Left: The main sitting room, situated on the ground floor has an aged pine floor, and crystal chandelier.

Left: The master bedroom has a stone wet room with double walk-in shower.

Finished in a dark wood, it features an original Victorian fireplace.

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For inspiration, the family worked with interior designers, Unique from Kings Lynn and they designed the majority of the main rooms together.

There are six bedrooms situated on the first floor.

“I loved the size of the property. All six bedrooms are double, and three of them feature original fireplaces.” says Becky. “The large master bedroom has beautiful views of the front and side gardens, and a stone wet room with a double walk in shower.”

Towngate House is set well back off Towngate West, situated in grounds of two acres. Wrought iron electrically operated gates open onto a circular driveway and front garden with a fountain. The rear gardens are mainly set to lawn, and beyond that there’s a large paddock. “At the entrance there are two mature chestnut trees and several mature trees directly to the front of the property.”

However, with the project drawn to a close, Neil and Becky have the renovation bug once again, but this time they want to work from the ground upwards.

“We’ve decided that it is time for a change. Although we love living here, we would like to build a house to our own design from scratch in the area. This is a fantastic place to live - there are excellent schools and we are close to the town. There’s also easy access to Peterborough so great for commuters.”

When we spoke with the couple, it became clear just how much love, care and dedication they have given to this restoration project. “It truly is unique.” reflected Neil. “You’ll not find another one like it.”

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Towngate House Market Deeping style: elegant Grade ii listed Victorian farmhouse restored by neil and Becky receptions: Four reception rooms, currently arranged as sitting room, study, family room and drawing room.

Bedrooms: Six; master suite with wet room.

Other features: large kitchen, two family bathrooms, Victorian features, Collyweston

stone roof and limestone brick.

Price: £1,250,000 Estate agency: norton rickett ltd, wittering Grange Cottage, Old Oundle road, wansford, Pe8 6nr.

Tel: 01780 782999.

Web: www.nortonrickett.co.uk.

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Welcome to Abama...

A land where time seems to stop and pause for breath. Hidden away on Tenerife’s glittering south-western shore is an unspoilt corner of coastline enjoying an average year-round temperature of 23ºC.

Your opportunity to acquire a bespoke world class residence set within the grounds of the prestigious Ritz Carlton managed Abama Resort with fabulous panoramic views to the immaculate golf course and the Atlantic Ocean: • Enjoy the luxury 5 star facilities of the Abama • Full concierge service available • Private Beach • Helipad • 24 hour security

Find out more by calling us on 0034 922 792 952 or email us at abama@cmltenerife.com or visit our website www.cmltenerife.com.

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HOME & gArDEN

with Armor Shutters

Teamwork: David Burton, Linda Wilkins, Jonathan shelton of armor shutters. also pictured here is oďŹƒce dog, Harley!

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gArAgE DOOrs, sHuTTErs, WINDOWs AND CONsErvATOrIEs

PEACE Of MIND fOr yOur HOME AND busINEss...

The best protection, with the most convenient solutions. Armor Shutters provides homes and businesses in rutland with the best methods of maintaining secure, comfortable premises for less money than you’d think. The company supplies windows, doors & conservatories, security shutters, automated garage doors and awnings - making it a one-stop-shop for all your security needs...

W

hether you travel abroad and leave your home or lock up your business each night, you’ll find reassurance in the fact that Armor Shutters can ensure that when you return, the building will still be safe and sound.

Windows and Doors The company’s Manor Windows brand provides FENSA approved windows and doors with A-rated high performance Planitherm glass that’s 80% more efficient than single glazing. Its PVCu windows and doors are steel reinforced and can be supplied with hinge protection bolts for maximum security. The are supplied in white, oak and rosewood, or a finish that can be painted in any colour.

They’re also available with venetian or roller blinds that don’t necessitate drilling into the profile and can match the company’s range of bespoke Victorian and Edwardian conservatories.

Automated Garage Doors Rather than clunky, cumbersome up-andover units, Armor Shutters have been manufacturing and installing Roller Garage Doors for almost 20 years, and these are available with full automation and with prices starting from just £1,200.

“Armor Shutters provides windows, doors, conservatories, roller garage doors, security shutters, blinds, canopies & awnings for domestic and commercial premises...”

These can be remote controlled or operated by a keypad or key-based lock and are made of strong, light aluminium, insulated with dense foam for great sound and heat insulation.

“They’re a superb system, with a mechanism that’s more compact than manual up-andover doors for greater wing mirror space.” says the company’s David Burton.

“Powder-coated, they’re rustproof and weather proof, with a reinforced plinth that can’t be forced. The slats lock into place and there’s a manual override for powered systems, plus a magic eye system that will automatically lift the garage door if pets or people walk under them.”

Let the Sun Shine In And finally, as the better weather makes an appearance, you’ll enjoy the convenience of the company’s manually or electronically operated all-weather canopies and awnings. Available in a wide range of styles and colours, operated via remote control with features like automatic deployment and retraction according to the weather, they’re a great way to make your terrace a more comfortable place to spend time all summer long.

£ Find Out More...

“The systems also have security lights built in and are available in 30 different colours, 10 from stock. With edge trims and coverboards in PVCu, they look neat and work really well.”

Security Shutters Armor Shutters also provides security grilles, bars and shutters for domestic and commercial premises which are hidden until deployed and can be operated electronically or manually.

“We’ve completed thousands of installations of our shutters, which are brilliantly tough but don’t spoil the look of the premises.” says David.

“We’ve worked on farms and equestrian premises - and on Grade II listed properties; places where security is important but the look of the building shouldn’t be compromised.”

£ Armor Shutters provides windows, doors, conservatories, roller garage doors, security shutters, blinds, canopies and awnings for domestic and commercial premises. £ The business’s products are completely bespoke, and all are made to measure and installed by in-house staff.

Visit the company’s showroom on South Street, Stanground, Peterborough, Call 01733 342888 or see www.manorwindows.net or www.armorshutters.co.uk.

Above: Dominic Clarke manufacturing a Garage Door in the factory.

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SPRING STYLE FOR YOUR HOME AT

Furleys of Oakham...

With ten years of experience and a keen eye for detail in design, interiors expert Hannah Turcan of Furleys, in Oakham’s Market Place, offers a bespoke, high quality service. With true talent, it’s no surprise Hannah is first choice in the area...

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HOMEs & gArDENs

with Furleys

S

peaking to Rutland’s Hannah Turcan, whilst enjoying a tour of one of her recently completed commissions, a passion for creating beautiful interiors definitely shines through. The interior designer has worked in the studio at her parents’ design company, Furleys, in Oakham’s Market Place for over a decade.

picture. We start with a core and build it up together.”

Hannah provides a dedicated one-to-one consultation, where she will visit a customer at their home.

Everything has an impact on her designs, so she will analyse the space, lighting, and size of each element.

Opposite Page/Above: To gain an idea of what hannah does, we took a tour of her latest project - a country property in the Vale of Belvoir.

She will always work with her customer to narrow “I grew up with beautiful fabrics and quality furniture. down their specific wants and needs whilst making It’s just a natural thing to me - almost genetic.” says suggestions to achieve a look that they will feel Hannah. “There are so many fabrics, materials, comfortable with. The designer offers inspiration using textures and colours, and such an amazing selection of furniture available now.

Putting the elements of a “I never dictate what I think a customer should have. It’s more room together is a real art for like guidance; giving clients inspiration and encouragement a professional designer.

I work with my customers to be more confident with their designs. I make sure they feel and act as guide, giving them happy and confident, and I like them to see these ideas evolve.” the confidence to be more adventurous with their different materials and colour palettes, showing designs.” different ideas that the customer may not consider After studying Design and then History of Art at putting together, but will love. college, Hannah moved to London to study towards a “I would never dictate what I think a customer should business degree. Deep down, she always knew she had have – it’s more guidance, giving them inspiration and a flair for interior design so when she moved back to encouragement to be more confident with their dethe area, naturally she joined the family business. signs. I make sure they feel happy and confident with “Often people are worried about trying new things or what I suggest, and I like them to see these ideas being a bit more original. That’s where I come in – evolve with their input.” using my experience and expertise, I help to create a

>>

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HOMEs & gArDENs

with Furleys

One of the designer’s most recent commissions is a country property in the Vale of Belvoir belonging to a couple who had a deadline for the complete restyling of their property of just four months.

Above/Left: The designer used fabrics from names like Mulberry, lewis & wood and kravet.

This timescale didn’t deter Hannah from delivering a high quality service. “We updated everything - from the colour schemes and wallpaper, carpets, furniture, fabrics, bedding, linens and exterior lighting. I had just 12 weeks to complete the work, and created the specifications in two weeks, ready for my customers to see through ideas and schemes together. The brief was to create a comfortable and cosy property, but the family love entertaining, so it also needed to have a smart, sophisticated edge.”

A second phase of the project, some time after, involved designing the hall and dining areas. Working closely with Stamford based architect Graeme King, at Ross Thain & Co, the collaboration saw Hannah also oversee the development of the property’s exterior barns into an annexe incorporating a bedroom, sitting area, gym and sauna. This project brought the stables back to their original design. “It was a really large project with such a short amount of time - but it looks fantastic now the work is complete.”

We asked Hannah if she had any advice for people thinking of revamping their home this spring.

“It’s interesting to observe new trends but you shouldn’t base your ideas purely on them. Rather than concentrate on a trend that may be short lived, choose a design that you are comfortable with. You want to create a home 62

Left: in addition to the property’s interiors, hannah oversaw the installation of a new kitchen.

Top: hannah worked on the whole house, completing phase one of the project in just four months.

styled with long term appeal; one that you will love for years to come.”

Hannah is constantly seeking fresh ideas that have real longevity, rather than being dictated by fashion and says; “It’s good to glean ideas from on-trend looks, but my work involves merging these with classic styles that will help you update a look. My advice is to change a room’s style by carefully considering its use.”

“Then, visualise what you are trying to create, and work towards making it fit for purpose as well as attractive. Also, small elements can really help to change a room, so if you only want to refresh an area - consider new curtains, a beautiful lamp or some stunning cushions to transform an existing sofa.”

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Appealing: The dining room and rear entrance hall of the Vale of Belvoir property, together with a wellness annexe, constituted phase two of hannah’s latest project. This room features bespoke window treatments and the commissioning of bespoke reproduction furniture emulating antique pieces.

Finding Out More specialising in quality furnishings and bespoke home interiors, Furleys is one of Oakham’s most famous retailers and has had a presence in the town since 1836.

Zoffany and lewis & wood, specialist lighting, wallpaper and in-house mixing of paint from The little Greene Paint Company.

The business last year returned to its core specialism; providing beautiful bespoke furnishings and advice, whilst moving away from smaller items and its gift/homeware.

hannah and her team are available for advice on designing individual rooms or whole properties. The company can also create individual window dressings and can cover existing chairs or sofas for a fresh new look.

The shop has fresh stock and new examples of the firm’s furnishings, as well as fabrics from names like Mulberry, Osborne & little,

For more information visit Furleys at 7 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AH. Tel: 01572 755539. www.furleys.co.uk.

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Spring Homes & Gardens

with Elizabeth and Stevens

>>

<< Items for a gent’s study; leather globe, approx 75cm tall £99, resin horse, approx 30cm £23.75.

Leather football £28.

Pair of cast iron brogue paperweights £48. Leather baseball £POA. Antique binoculars £POA, leather bound notebooks from £9.

Poison bottles £5/ea.

Wall clock from a selection, approx 60cm diameter £45. << Faux leather chests in small (not shown) medium £120 and large £165 with wood trim and snakeskin texture. << Union flag postbox (back) £36, British made flag cushion with royal crest (40cm x 30cm) £14.99.

Larger postboxes from £195.

THE WISH LIST

>> Dovecote in reclaimed wood £32.50.

Trio of resin birds £15.

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THE WISH LIST

Elizabeth and Stevens

>>

for Spring Homes and Gardens

>>

Picnic blanket (back) 145cm x 183cm in pure wool, made in Wales £70, baby blanket in pink/blue check £18.75 each (foreground) £18.75. Terracotta candle with three wicks £12. Trio of birds in resin £15. Tea light holders, from left; votive silver £4.50, hanging glass tea light 18cm x 10cm £5, tea light holder with hemp rope handle £5.75, large pillar candle jar £10.50. Fleur de Lys pot shown here with narcissus £9.50.

>>

English stoneware doghounds approx 95cm tall £395/ea.

Adams style rams head urn, terracotta coloured, made of reconstituted stone £95.

King and Queen English stone wall pots planters £46/pair.

Art Nouveau cherub wall faces £12/ea. >> Vintage packing boxes, original not reproduction; call for availability £POA.

Elizabeth & Stevens is one of our favourite retailers for the county’s period homes. It was founded three years ago

by Julia and Steve Blockley, who specialise in wholesale and retail interiors products as well as props for TV and film.

The retailer has a selection of gift items, cards, throws, blankets, notebooks and other ‘finishing touches’ from under £5, as well as larger items of antique, reproduction and hand-made English furniture. Elizabeth and Stevens stock a selection of Bronze sculpture that includes life size stags and boxing hares. The company also has a large choice of replica vintage post boxes alongside collectable original ones which they sell around the world via their mail order site.

Whether you’re looking for a larger piece or a few quirky retro finishing touches, or a gift; you can browse the showroom and garden yard and will be guaranteed a warm welcome and a helpful shopping experience.

Find Out More: The Showrooms, Great North Road, Markham Moor, Retford, Nottinghamshire DN22 0QU. Tel: 01636 822000.

Or shop online at: www.elizabethandstevens.com.

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Inspiration and Ideas for your Home and Garden

A1, Markham Moor, Retford DN22 0QU 01636 822000 www.elizabethandstevens.com Wednesday to Saturday oďŹ&#x20AC; the A1 signed to Lincoln A57 then take the turning to Retford A638 - come in and browse, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really friendly!

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Keep Calm and

Go Coastal This month, we look at creating a calm and relaxing beach holiday style home with neutral decor and accessories with a slight nautical twist.

Words: Ceri Jackson.

Biarritz Tea Towel The Linenworks tea towel available from Elizabeth Stanhope.

Earn Your Stripes Beautiful selection of country stripe cushions from the Sanderson Home Madison collection.

For stockists visit www.sanderson-uk.com

Halo Effect This Denby Halo dinner set is perfect for anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dining room table! Selection available from the Denby store at Springfields.

Ahoy Matey Authentic Models Cabin Porthole Mirror available from Occa, ÂŁ149.

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George Table Lamp Part of Halo’s beautiful lighting range, the George Table Lamp has a glass lantern style in antique rust.

Check stockists at Halo. www.haloliving.co.uk

“We love these Wicker Log Carriers!”

Elizabeth Stanhope.

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Beach Living: This fabulous throw is made of soft brushed cotton, with a big bold stripe and twisted tassel fringe. It not only looks great on your bed or sofa, but can be used as a blanket for the garden, park or beach.

The White Company, ÂŁ85.

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HoMES

Enlightening Experience Beige and Cream chandelier.

Available from Elizabeth Stanhope.

Beautiful Aromas Woodwick candles are made from soy wax, so you can enjoy the beautiful aromas for longer.

We recommend At The Beach with scents of tropical citrus, coconut and cool sea breezes, or try Pure Comfort, an infusion of sun dried linen with satin musk and delicate fruity tones.

Available from local stockists.

Glass Hurricane with Hemp Handle These lamps are so versatile, and the handles are flexible so they can be hung up.

Use a candle or even flowers to add colour.

Elizabeth & Stevens, £95.

Freshwater Bay Natural Cotton Cushion Casual cushion in natural tones is perfect with fresh stripes and interesting textures.

Laura Ashley, £24.

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Metal Sorting office for incoming post with metal label.

Dotcomgiftshop, £29.95.

This month we love...

“Add character to your kitchen with these cool yet chic treasures!”

Ceri Jackson, Features Editor

What’s for dinner...?

Flower Power Cath Kidston Painterly Rose Ceramic Flour Shaker and Rolling Pin. Available from local stockists.

We love this personalised vintage wood chalkboard!

Add your family name to add a personal touch.

Notonthehighstreet.com, £38.

Upper Crust Dualit 4-Slice toaster with warming rack in Canvas White Available from Chilli Peppers Cookshop.

Hide and Chic This Lounge Cowhide chair is perfect for a beach house near the seaside with a chic, contemporary twist.

Notonthehighstreet.com, £869.

Nordic Ware Teacakes and Candies Pan Perfect for making pretty cakes and chocolates.

Oldrids, £26.60.

Jazz Club...

Rug from The Jazz collection, featuring elegant transitional hand crafted decorative rugs made in the finest materials.

The beautifully coloured Ikat inspired designs are refreshingly unique. Size in stock: 10x8.

Available from The Rug Studio, £6,375.

orb Metal Cage Ceiling Light in a slate grey finish.

Perfect for an attractive statement light fitting.

Elizabeth & Stevens £80.

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Stressless Windsor Sofa with Mayfair Recliner available from local stockists. Prices starts from £1,529.

A cool palette of creams and greys create the perfect beach holiday home vibe and there’s no need to panic - with this selection of Farrow & Ball paints, you’re covered!

Farrow & Ball, French Gray No. 18

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Farrow & Ball, Purbeck Stone No. 275

Farrow & Ball, Ammonite No. 274

Farrow & Ball, James White No. 2010

Farrow & Ball, Wevet No. 273

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Three of The Best

Bean Bags Create a relaxed atmosphere in your home office with these ‘best of the bunch’ bean bags!

Travel The World Travel the world from the comfort of your home, thanks to this marvellous super comfy map-print bean bag. £75, John Lewis.

Podcast Around The World In 80 Days...

This knitted pod makes a great contrast to the usual bean bag. It does not lose shape, but makes an eye catching place to sit!

Between £70-£100, Next.

Pair up this Globe with the John Lewis map bean bag shown opposite.

Elizabeth and Stevens, £35.

Elegant Console Table featuring soft grey painted finish and black top. Comes with two soft-close drawers with solid brass handles, and two smaller internal drawers. John Lewis, £999.

Flower Power White vase available from Oldrids.

Snuggle up Snuggle up in this faux fur beanbag. A fun alternative, the short textured pile looks just like real sheepskin. £275, The White Company.

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WOOSTER INTERIORS WooSTER InTERIoRS nEAR oUnDLE IS A FAMILy RUn BUSInESS BASED In BRIGSToCK

Susie established her soft furnishing business 10 years ago and specialises in beautiful top quality blinds, curtains, fabrics, soft furnishings, as well as headboards, poles, rugs, lighting, mirrors and much more. We are proud to say that everything is made in house in a beautiful converted barn on the farm by 3 highly experienced seamstresses.

Due to the business growing from strength to strength Susie is now pleased to offer a full interior design service, this is all in house where we can help you decide on room scheme, colours, fabrics and furniture. We realise how over whelming some projects can be and we are here to help. Wooster Interiors also does contract work as well as residential. Please call to arrange a suitable time to visit the showroom or alternatively Susie is happy to come to your home and discuss schemes in the comfort of your own surroundings.

Please visit our website www.woosterinteriors.co.uk.

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IN THE GARDEN

Think small, think different...

If you’re looking to save space, or want an alternative way to present flowers and plants, why not create a quirky, unique garden with unusual containers?

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hether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re short on garden space, or looking for an alternative way to present your plants or flowers inside or out, using or making unique and quirky containers is a great way to add a bit of character to your garden.

The joy of pots and containers is they are easy to move and you can create an ever-changing canvas throughout the year. They can provide bursts of colour which take centre stage, or have a more passive role and become a neutral backdrop to create layers in your garden.

Making your own can give your garden a personable touch, and there are so many advantages to using containers to grow your plants: you can add your own character or style, a splash of colour or statement.

They are a great way of filling annoying gaps, and if you are a novice gardener they can give you an opportunity to practice before tackling a larger space.

It is also a great way to get the children involved.

There are no restrictions on the type of containers you can use - wellington boots, glass bottles, wire stands, colanders, hanging baskets, old stone sinks, or even egg shells. The options available are endless; be as creative as you want!

Dainty Tea Cups and Kettles Dainty cups and saucers, and kettles can create small, pretty gardens to brighten up your day inside or out.

You can use any to suit your style! To prepare, drill a hole in the base of each cup using a hand drill or add a small amount of gravel. Being careful not to overwater should keep the plants healthy. Use Alpine plants as they adapt to harsh conditions including low temperatures, dryness, and a short growing season.

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Main: Recycle old tins or farming ephemera to create rustic planters. Alternatively, these zinc planters are from Red Lily.

Right: When stone planters are a little tatty, or lichen covered, they adopt an established, rural look that looks great in cottage gardens.

Far Right: Anything can be used as a plant container... even wellington boots!

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GARDENING

IN THE GARDEN

Jobs for April £ Beware of late frosts and keep vulnerable plants and new shoots protected at night.

Don’t be tempted to put out tender bedding plants until much later in the month and even then be prepared to cover it if necessary.

£ Continue with the spring cleaning. Hoe your borders and get rid of those weeds.

£ Now the soil is warming up and things are starting to grow, add general purpose fertiliser before covering with mulch especially in borders, fruit and vegetable patch and your containers. If you have already mulched draw it back if you can, tease the soil a little, add fertiliser and replace the mulch.

£ Create any new beds and borders. £ Tidy those pond plants - remove all dead plant residues, divide pond plants and get rampant varieties back under control. Put new plants in baskets with fresh pond soil and give them special water plant fertiliser granules by the roots in the soil.

£ Clean and repair your garden tools, and check garden furniture for any rot. When it is warm enough, treat sheds, fences and trellis with wood preservative.

£ Wage war on slugs and snails! They love tulips and delicacies such as young shoots of delphiniums, so use pet-friendly slug pellets, drench the ground with liquid slug killer to exterminate slugs below the surface.

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GARDENING Wire Stands Simple wire cages can be transformed using flowers.

You could use something a bit more quirky to add character, such as a rusty vintage bike with flowers in the basket, or a cake stand can create a pretty centrepiece with dainty flowers. Use large wire stands to store more containers - a great way to incorporate different plants and add a vintage French villa feel to your home or garden.

Hanging Baskets If you have limited space, hanging baskets are an ideal way to create a garden. Colanders are a great way to make quirky hanging baskets - all you need to do is add lining, potting mix and your plants. Hooks and chain should be available to buy from your local DIY store.

Bird cages are a fun way to hang flowers too.

Miniature Eggshell Gardens These are a great way to get the kids involved with gardening! Pastel-coloured eggs filled with different miniature flowers and moss are a great way to make small gardens.

Use a knife to cut the top off each egg, pour out the contents and rinse. Make a small hole in the bottom with a pin, and spoon potting mix into each egg making sure there will be enough room for the plants.

Put one plant in each egg - make sure you choose plants with small roots and water regularly. You can display them in vintage cups to brighten up your table, and the best part is they are so quick to make so you can change the plants on a regular basis.

Top Right: Simple wire cages make great containers, and cake stands can be used as stunning centrepieces.

Right: Vintage kettles and glass bottles make great containers and can add a rustic edge to your garden.

Above: Miniature egg shell gardens are a great way to involve the children in gardening and can create quirky table decoration displayed in vintage egg cups.

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THE WEDDING ALBUM

Adam and Kerri Fenn...

Enjoy your special day, as it comes and goes in a flash that’s the advice of this month’s bride. From a birthday proposal with a special Millie’s Cookie message to a dream winter wedding, they share their special moments...

Photos: Contact:

Dean Street Photography Studios 01572 757643, www.andycrossphotographer.com.

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gi ant cook ie an d a h it w e m d te en es pr m “A da ‘ Ker ri w ill you id sa it x bo e th ed en op I w hen w as so ex cite d! ” I g in ic e th in ’ e? m ry m ar

e bl ac k dres ses “ O ur brid es m ai dsd crweaorm flo w er s. ” w ith pink an

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THE WEDDING ALBUM

“When you start planning your wedding, try not to stress out and just relax; it will all come together perfectly on the day...!”

A

dam and I met ten years ago at college.

We were friends for a while before we got together; we were just meant to be!

When he proposed on my birthday in October 2011, I was so happy.

My guilty pleasure is Millie’s Cookies. I’m obsessed with them, so for my birthday Adam got me a giant cookie and when I opened the box it said ‘Kerri will you marry me?’ in the icing. I was so excited; I said ‘YES!’ straight away!

We had quite a long engagement of just over two years before we got married. Having this time helped us to save so we could have the perfect wedding, and we knew we wanted a winter wedding, so December was our month.

Looking back I found it quite hard planning our wedding. It wasn’t necessarily stressful, but because we work long hours it was hard to find the time to fit everything in and plan the details. I couldn’t do it again, but I did really enjoy looking at different ideas and inspiration. We had strong ideas of what we wanted so when we found everything, it all came together

really well. Having more time to plan definitely made it easier to fit everything in.

The first thing we booked was the venue.

We wanted somewhere a bit different where we could do the ceremony and reception together in one place as we didn’t want a church wedding. We chose the Orton Hall Hotel. It used to be an old stately home so it had the perfect character which was just what we wanted.

When it came to finding my perfect wedding dress, I had no idea what style I wanted. I went with my mum and best friend, and after trying many different dresses, I fell in love with my A-line Benjamin Roberts dress. It was a champagne colour to suit the winter theme. I had the straps added, and changed a few details such as the flower to a pearl and crystal embellishment. In the end it was perfect.

The bridesmaids wore black dresses with pink and cream flowers, and at first Adam wasn’t too keen but after showing him a few photographs he soon changed his mind. When it came to the night before the wedding, I stayed at the hotel. I felt absolutely fine, it

The Ceremony and Reception: orton Hall Hotel 01733 391111 Wedding Cake: Cake Kabin www.thecakekabin.co.uk Photographer: Dean Street Photography www.andycross photographer.com Florist: Greensleaves greensleavesflorist.co.uk

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THE WEDDING ALBUM

was only when I was waiting with my Dad and the acoustic guitarist started playing our song that the nerves kicked in.

I was petrified walking down the aisle; I had no idea where to look and was conscious I was walking too fast, but that all changed when I saw Adam.

When we were saying our vows, it felt like it was just the two of us... it was a very intimate moment together.

70 guests attended the ceremony and reception.

Adam has quite a small family whereas my family is quite large - but we invited everyone we wanted to be there, and we had a great mix of friends and family.

When it came to the speeches, I remember crying during Adam’s - we’ve known each other for years, so when he called me ‘his bestest friend in the world,’ I broke down in tears.

There were also some really funny moments - his best man made him wear a ‘dancing queen’ outfit on his stag do and he had the photographs printed on to big card and he brought the outfit along too.

That definitely caused some laughs!

With our wedding day being such a whirlwind, we wanted a nice, relaxing honeymoon after so we decided on the Dominican Republic. It was absolutely 96

Images: Dean Street Photography www.andycross photographer.com

brilliant and it was lovely to spend some quality time together with each other We’d like to thank Vanessa from The Wedding Market Shop for all her help. We got most of the things for our special day from her shop so we’d like to thank her for all her help. We’d also like to give a special thanks to our parents who have been so supportive.

My advice for any brides planning their big day? Enjoy your special day, as it comes and goes in a flash! When you start planning your wedding, try not to stress and relax as it will all come together perfectly on the day.

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Bespoke & Made to Measure Suits by a Savile Row Tailor, Andrew Musson

Andrew J Musson Bespoke Tailor of Lincoln

CALL TODAY TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A BESPOKE OR MADE TO MEASURE SUIT. 39 High Street, Lincoln LN5 8AS

Tel: (01522) 520142 info@andrewjmusson.com www.andrewjmusson.com

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2.

Weddings

Wedding Cake Tips

4.

1.

10

CAKE TIPS FoR 2014 WEDDInGS

WEDDInG CAKES ARE SET To LooK REALLy IMAGInATIVE THIS yEAR! GonE ARE THE USUAL WHITE TIERED CAKES, REPLACED By BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL CoLoURS, LAyERS & RUFFLES, HAnD PAInTED DESIGnS... AnD RUSTIC ‘nAKED’ CAKES!

Make a Statement: Every bride wants to be centre stage on her wedding day... but your wedding cake should stand out too, with bold splashes of colour; it’s all about 2014’s ‘colour of the year,’ Radiant Orchid.

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Mix It Up: Gone are the days of same sized tiers and shapes. Create an exciting and intriguing wedding cake using different heights, widths and shaped tiers.

2

Sponge Combo: It’s the year of the sponge (bye bye, fruit cake!), and couples 3 are starting to choose even more adventurous flavours - such as cocktail inspired tiers, chocolate, and even lemon or carrot cake.

Frill Seekers: Romantic frills and ruffles are a continuing trend this year - mimicking the folds of delicate wedding dresses.

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7.

6.

Love is Sweet: Brides looking for a more relaxed atmosphere are now using styled sweet tables and dessert bars. These are a great way to incorporate your favourite edible delights complimenting your wedding theme.

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Painted Cakes: Hand-painted cakes are a hot trend this year - anything goes with this style and it gives couples the opportunity to create their very own piece of art.

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’Naked Cakes’: More and more brides are opting for a rustic themed wedding, and naked cakes are the answer. Uncovered sponge cakes with layers of buttercream and jam, decorated with flowers.

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Cupcakes: Many brides are opting for cupcakes instead of traditional wedding cakes. You can add an array of colours, textures and flavours with these little delights. Some of the top trends for 2014 include coral, 1920’s Gatsby-inspired and English Garden cakes.

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Modern Geometrics: Geometric prints are on-trend for 2014 weddings, and wedding cakes can exhibit this style too.

They incorporate structured patterns and elegant, clean lines in their designs.

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8.

Rise of the Bespoke Cake: More and more couples want their 10 wedding to be more personal, and a reflection of their individuality. They want to look back on their photographs, and say “That was so us!” Creating a bespoke wedding cake is a great way to achieve this.

For more wedding cake ideas, visit www.ukbride.co.uk 99

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ATTENTION WEDDING BUSINESSES OVER 400,000 members

OVER 60,000 Facebook fans OVER 16,000 followers on Twitter OVER 1.5 million unique visitors each year OVER 72,000 new brides-to-be every year WE CAN GUARANTEE LEADS, CONTACTS AND WEDDING DETAILS OF BRIDES-TO-BE IN YOUR TOWN. AND, WE HAVE A VERY SUCCESSFUL ONLINE ADVERTISING PACKAGE, UP TO 90% OF OUR CLIENTS RENEW THEIR UKBRIDE CAMPAIGN EACH YEAR! DEMO: WWW.UKBRIDE.CO.UK/2014 OR CALL OUR TEAM ON 0800 112 3 112

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CHooSING A WEDDING PHoToGRAPHER

Happily Ever After...

A passion for travel and an enthusiasm for working with people makes Andy McRobbie the perfect professional to photograph your big day. This month he oďŹ&#x20AC;ers his tips for choosing a wedding photographer to capture your happy ever after...

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B

rides naturally look to cut costs when planning their wedding day, but too many brides compromise on their wedding photography, with some disasterous consequences. However, wedding photography needn’t be expensive, and after the cake has been eaten and the flowers are past their best, your photographs are what remains of your day, an aide memoire of the happiest moments of your life.

opposite: A professional photographer will know how to pose a bride properly and will be able to work in all weather conditions.

Above/Left: Design skills when compiling your wedding album and retouching techniques in postproduction are skills that enthusiastic amateurs simply can’t match.

“Trusting your wedding photography to a wellmeaning relative or friend is potentially disappointing.” says Andy McRobbie, who photographs weddings across Lincolnshire and Rutland.

“Professional photographers are used to working around bright sunlight, which can cause harsh shadows and they have contingency plans for wet weather. They have the skills and expertise needed for post-production improvements to your photos and for album design.”

A member of the Society of Wedding Photography Professionals, the British Professional Photographers Association and the Royal Photographic Society, Andy took a year out travelling with world with his wife after completing a degree in physics. He discovered stunning landscapes across Australia, South East Asia and the United States, but says he was most inspired by the personalities of the people he came across.

“The colour and character of the people I came across was really amazing.” says Andy. “It inspired a long-standing love of capturing people on film children, people at work, brides... and so a serious hobby eventually became a profession.”

“These days I love shooting weddings. I shoot around 40 a year and it’s like going to a party every weekend!

Anyone looking to book their photography should ensure their photographer is just as enthusiastic.

They should be someone you can spend the whole of your wedding day with and get on well with. On your day, a bride will spend more time with her photographer than with her groom, so a good rapport is important.”

“Technical skills and real creative flair are important too, from ensuring the subtle tones of a dress come through on an image, to professional retouching like smoothing skin tones.”

“My packages start from just £625 with all-day coverage of your wedding and a bespoke album with 80-100 images, so a professional photographer needn’t be expensive, but it’s the only surefire way to ensure the memories of your day are preserved forever.”

Find out More: Andy photographs brides across Lincolnshire and Rutland. He is available for portrait, wedding and commercial photography work.

For more information call 07790 581 333 or see www.amba photography.co.uk.

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FASHION BRIDE PHOTOGRAPHY A FASHIon PHoToGRAPHER FoR THE BEST PART oF 18 yEARS, GARIE HInD LIVES WITH HIS WIFE, TV PRESEnTER DEBBIE SHoRE. SInCE MoVInG To THE AREA 2 yEARS AGo GARIE HAS TURnED HIS FASHIon PHoToGRAPHy ExPERIEnCE To WEDDInG PHoToGRAPHy.

G

arie worked with high street names such as Monsoon, Boots PLC, next Directory, Mothercare, Panache, George at ASDA, Marks and Spencer, Debenhams Direct and many others. He specialised in children and adult fashion. "you must have a lot of patience to photograph children." "yes, they are a challenge, but my approach is essentially to let them be themselves and have fun. Look at my web site gariehindphotography.com and see what I mean." you worked out of your nottingham studio in the 90s.

Did you photograph any weddings during that period? "no I never entertained them at all. Wedding photography was still quite formal in the 90s and when people demand a less formal reportage style. I had that look in my fashion folio for years, so it was an easy transition."

What would you bring to the wedding Album?

"Well to start with I love weddings, everyone is having a good time, and I capture that on a long focus lens so my style is unobtrusive natural imagery. With shared copyright, between the couple and myself, gives them the freedom to create their album”.

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Garie did have a unusual phone call out of the blue in December last year, when a bride said she had been married for two weeks, and when they got back from honeymoon their wedding photographer announced that something went wrong and she had no photographs from the wedding day. They were devastated. Garie met them both at the wedding venue in Surrey and reconstructed the wedding day just with the bride and groom. This is what the bride had to say; “Dominic and I received the USB and we just wanted to express how over the moon we are. We really are so thrilled that we now have some lovely photos! We are only gutted it cost £800 for our wedding day photographer as your photos really highlighted what a shabby job she had done!!

Thank you again so so much!!” Annie With months of organisation and planning, your wedding day will go very quickly and you are left with the images that should enhance the occasion and bring back memories of the day. So choose your photographer carefully.

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Spring Jewellery

>>

with You and Beyond

>> Swarovski Fuchsia Pen: Swarovski pen filled with fuchsia pink Swarovski crystals; £25.

>>

Jersey Pearl Emma Kate Necklace and Earrings Beautiful filigree sterling silver and genuine fresh water pearl necklace; £69 and earrings; £49.

Hot Diamonds Heart Locket: Memoirs Heart Locket Pendant

by Hot Diamonds. Sterling silver necklace and locket pendant with a real diamond; £79.95.

>>

>> Daisy Necklace & Bracelet: Sterling silver and gold plated necklace with Daisy detail; £77 and matching bracelet; £162.

>> Pandora Charm: openworks heart charm.

Each heart is crafted from sterling silver and centred with a beautiful pink cubic zirconia; £55.

THE WISH LIST

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THE WISH LIST

>>

You and Beyond of Stamford

Diamond Fire Earrings: Sterling silver earrings with royal blue cubic zirconia; £82. >> Bering Watch: A beautiful watch with mother of pearl dial and Swarovski elements; £99.

<< Thomas Sabo: Rose quartz charm bracelet.

Sterling silver and rose quartz bracelet ready to add up to three charms; £29.95.

Stamford’s You and Beyond Jewellery, is the area’s one stop destination shop for designer jewellery in Stamford, Lincolnshire. From charm bracelets to watches, if you’re looking for stylish, premium jewellery from a passionate retailer then look no further, we have it covered.

Since opening its doors in 2010 and starting with just one small cabinet of Pandora, the shop has absolutely thrived and has built up a beautifully innovative store, home to over 20 different brands. Combining this with unparalleled customer service from fully trained and passionate staff, the shop believes it gives its customers the best shopping experience possible... go and see for yourself!

Find out More: 14 St Mary's St, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DF. Tel: 01780 755996. Web: www.youandbeyond.co.uk.

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HEALTHCARE

with Asembo of Stamford

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SPRING CLEAN YoUR BoDY AND MIND AT ASEMBo

THE FACIAL THAT REALLY WoRKS... natasha Parker, of Stamford hair and beauty salon Asembo, this month celebrates the business’s first anniversary with a brand new treatment - the perfect facial treatment for spring. Most facials are relaxing and enjoyable, but ESPA's high-end enzymatic treatment is also designed to maintain skin health too...

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e all love facial treatments, and even basic treatments offer a relaxing experience. But high end facial treatments like Asembo’s new ESPA-powered Enzyme Facial when you enjoy them regularly, can really help to maintain healthy skin too.

Naturally Beautiful Asembo’s new Enzyme based treatment promises to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, even out pigmentation and leave skin feeling refreshed and revived, banishing blemishes and stripping away dead skin.

The treatment is the closest you can get to a glycolic chemical peel, but unlike those harsh treatments, its natural mineral composition is gentle on skin, using botanical extracts and enzymes derived from pumpkins. That means less chance of a reaction or puffy redness; so you can enjoy a treatment that’s just as powerful, without the painful, red and incredibly sore side-effects.

“It’s a superb treatment, gentle and luxurious, yet incredibly effective.” says Natasha. “Having opened Asembo in April 2013, after 15 years in the hair and beauty industry, it’s the perfect way to celebrate our first year on Stamford’s St Leonard’s Street.”

“Asembo’s new Enzyme Facial promises to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, even out pigmentation and leave skin feeling refreshed...”

“We’ll be launching our new, flagship facial this month with a special offer of six treatments for the price of five.”

“Facials which take away the top layer of dead skin cells aren’t recommended in high summer because they leave skin open to sun damage, but taken in April or May, ideally in a series of three or four treatments, they’re an ideal way to improve your skin’s health and appearance, just in time for holidays and the sunny weather.”

New Treatments Asembo marks its first year anniversary not only with its new flagship facial, but with a new range of mineral whole body tanning treatments from Mii. “The philosophy of the business is to provide natural treatments.” says Natasha.

“Previously we’ve rejected tanning brands because they’re all chemical based. But in Mii, we’ve found a brand that’s unique and suits our ethos; it’s naturally based with plant extracts and will last around seven days.”

“We’re also launching our new range of ESPA wraps this month. Again, naturally based and derived from sea minerals.”

“They’re the ideal treatment this month, and will ensure you look great in time for summer. Combined with gentle exfoliation and a soothing scalp massage, it’s a treatment you’ll really enjoy, too!”

“We definitely recommend enjoying these treatments this month - you’ll achieve great results just in time for summer, using natural products that are effective, but also kind on your skin.” says Natasha.

£ Find Out More... £ Asembo is a hair and beauty destination this month celebrating its first anniversary, being opened in its Grade II listed Stamford premises by natasha & James Parker in April 2013. £ The business has nine unisex hairdressing stations and uses Redken and Mizani hair treatments, ESPA and Jessica beauty treatments and a range of grooming treatments for men - these include a popular range of cut-throat hot towel shaves and massages.

Asembo is based at 20 St Leonard's Street, Stamford PE9 2HN. Call 01780 765337 for more information or visit www.asembo.co.uk.

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The best of

both worlds T

he only private hospital facility in Lincolnshire, where profits are returned to the NHS for the benefit of all local NHS patients. Patients enjoy privacy and individual attention whilst having the reassurance that The Bostonian is adjacent to the sophisticated services of The Pilgrim Hospital, with its expert diagnostic and emergency medical and surgical facilities.

H Award Winning Sleep Apnoea Service Please visit our website to view the full range of services we offer

www.the-bostonian.co.uk Comfort & Peace of Mind The Bostonian is the private wing of Pilgrim Hospital and is set in its own grounds and gardens. There are 19 en-suite single rooms with digital TVs and telephone. Our dedicated housekeeping team ensure continually high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

Professional Expertise Almost any condition can be treated at The Bostonian by our dedicated team of professionals – most of our Consultants live only minutes away.

We welcome self referral and provide 24 hour medical cover.

Range of Payment Options Available We deal with all the major insurance companies and also offer Fixed Price packages for the uninsured.

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

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Pilgrim Hospital’s Private Wing

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Eye Care Centre

Left: Kevin Davison is lab manager at Spalding Eye Care Centre and fabricates all of the company’s glasses in house.

Above: The practice is based on Spalding’s Sheep Market.

T

qUALITY EYECARE WITH THE EYE CARE CENTRE

Stylish Sunglasses for Summer With its in-house laboratory, Spalding’s Eye Care Centre can ensure your choice of designer frames are hand-tinted and 100% UV protected, so you’ll enjoy summer in true clarity...

For more information: Visit The Eye Care Centre, Sheep Market, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 1BH. Alternatively, call 01775 722141 or see www.eyecarecentrelincolnshire.co.uk.

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his summer, enjoy the bright sunny months in glare-free clarity with tinted prescription sunglasses created in house by Spalding’s Eye Care Centre.

The business was established in 1990 with an in-house laboratory designed to provide a start-to-finish service for its customers.

Not only do customers enjoy a full sight test with the latest equipment, their prescription is made in-house at the laboratory which cuts down considerably the amount of time it takes for a customer to receive their glasses. Computer controlled milling machines cut lenses down to the desired size and shape, and then, Lab Manager Kevin Davison can hand-tint the lenses to a customer’s desired strength and colour, create graduated tints or install polarised or Transitions Signature lenses to help mitigate the effects of bright sunshine all summer long.

The Eye Care Centre also has a range of 20 new frames to add to their dedicated sunglasses range this month, as well as designer glasses frames from names like Ted Baker, Anna Sui, Calvin Klein, Converse and Morgan. Also making their debut this month is a range of designer frames from Valentino, and the company is also a supplier of the Silhouette rimless and semi-rimless range which, in conjunction with in-house bespoke lens fabrication, enables you to choose the exact size and shape of your glasses.

The firm’s lab and its dedication to quality will enable you to find a solution that’s comfortable and effective so you can enjoy the sunshine all summer long!

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OUR PATIENTS LEAVE US FEELING THRILLED WITH THEIR NEW SMILE… “Dr Colin Sutton is a magician, move over Harry Potter!” S. Atherton

I

glancing in the mirror as I find it hard to believe the transformation Colin Sutton has performed.

Needing a good dentist I mentioned this to a friend one day and was amazed to learn that my friend had implants and had been treated

by Colin Sutton at the Dental Health Centre in Grantham.

You see my friend has beautiful teeth that look so natural and real it never occurred to me that they were not.

I can only say that if you are thinking about dental implants – stop thinking about it, do it!

I might also add that I live almost a four-hour round trip from Grantham but would travel much further to be treated by this excellent dentist who I cannot recommend highly enough. Colin Sutton is a magician, move over Harry Potter!

love my teeth and my new smile. Mr. Colin Sutton at The Dental Health Centre, Grantham has worked his magic.

Along I went full of apprehension and was given such confident and calm treatment

by Colin Sutton that having already seen his work I felt that if anyone could sort out my teeth then here was the man to do it.

Call us for an informal chat or please visit us for a free 30-minute initial consultation with Colin Sutton.

I am not the bravest of people and can honestly say that the treatment (Straumann dental implants) does not hurt and the outcome has transformed the way I feel about myself. I now have beautiful, natural looking teeth and can eat with confidence. I no longer dread going out for a meal or eating in company - previously my teeth were so loose I could only eat soft food. Now I cannot stop smiling and keep

The Dental Health Centre, 3 Avenue Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6TA. Tel: 01476 594480, or see www.dentalhealthcentre.co.uk

114 Colin Sutton BDS

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Private GP ServiceS AT YOUR CONVENIENCE Spire Leicester Hospital has been offering Private GP Services for a year now, the service offers easy access to a GP and rapid referral to hospital as needs be. Local GP and member of the team, Dr Phil Green, explains the advantages…

This is a ‘pay as you go’ general practice service based at Spire Leicester Hospital, which also provides a seamless pathway from primary care services to consultant led hospital care for patients, with all the advantages associated with Spire Healthcare’s independent hospitals.

Built in 1989, the group’s Leicestershire hospital has been part of Spire Healthcare since 2007 and is one of 38 hospitals in the group.

Above: the hospital has been providing a seamless pathway from GP to consultant with convenient appointments and patient choice since april 2013.

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patients appointments on Monday evenings, Tuesday afternoon/evening, Thursday and Saturday mornings, and at additional times by prior arrangement. ‘’Providing general practice services to men, women and children from birth, we offer faster access to convenient appointment times during evenings and at the weekend.’’ ‘’This flexibility allows us to see patients on an ad hoc basis and at short notice if required.’’

The hospital has 71 Private GP services enables you to choose which beds, four operating GP you see, opt to see a female GP if required theatres, two high and choose an appointment time to suit you... dependency beds and onsite pathology and sterile services. With its own MRI,CT, X-ray Another advantage of the service is longer and ultrasound suites, the hospital has the appointment times compared to GP services; best possible diagnostic facilities and access NHS GP surgeries usually offer patients 10 to over 300 consultants. minute slots.

Dr Phil Green is one of four GPs at Spire By contrast, Spire Leicester Hospital Leicester Hospital and practices in the NHS appointment slots are 30 minutes in duration. at Syston’s Jubilee Medical Practice. ‘’Working in the private sector, we have the All four GPs graduated in 1996 from luxury of being able to offer longer Leicester University Medical School and offer

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Health & Fitness

with Spire Leicester Hospital

Life as a GP...

Dr Phil Green trained in Leicester and is an NHS GP in Syston, as well as a private GP at Spire Leicester Hospital.

P

appointment times, which are tailored to the healthcare needs of the patient.’’ Says Dr Phil Green. ‘’This enables us to serve in a more pastoral capacity for patients, it’s like turning the clock back to the day when we could get to know our patients and spend time with them.’’ ‘’What’s more, with the consultants at Spire Leicester Hospital, we have experts just down the corridor who are available for quick questions. We also have MRI, CT and labs on site.

If a patient requires a follow up procedure following their initial consultation, it’s often possible for them to have a scan or X-ray at Spire after seeing the GP at a time to suit the patients.’’

Greater availability for appointments to suit you, longer appointment slots and better access to consultants across a wide range of specialities makes Spire Leicester Hospital’s Private GP services an ideal supplemental service to your NHS GP. It can also serve as a more convenient alternative care pathway for accessing a GP.

Main: Spire Leicester Hospital’s Private GP services are provided

by Dr Phil Green, Dr edward clode-Baker, Dr Helen Sadler and Dr Phil thomason.

After each consultation and with the patient’s consent - Spire Leicester Hospital’s GPs write to their named NHS GP detailing the content of the consultation.

First appointments are £120 for half an hour, £60 for follow up appointments.

Spire Leicester Hospital is based on Gartree Rd, Oadby, Leicester LE2 2FF. For more information on the hospital’s private GP provision, call 0116 265 3021 or see www.spireleicester.com

rivate general practice is not without its challenges and can sometimes be very different to our work in the NHS. The advantage of full 30 minute appointments is that we have time to secure a carefully compiled history in the absence of any existing medical records.

We are not privy to the knowledge of a patient’s social circumstances, family background and previous history. The flip side however, is that we are working from a blank canvas allowing us a completely fresh perspective of the patient’s problem.

We have much more time to spend with a patient and of course there are no constraints or targets, allowing us the luxury of being able to devote the whole consultation to the problem at hand.

The Private GP Services has seen patients across the demographic map, including children, the elderly and non-UK residents.

The GPs also see overseas students who are unable to register with a GP and those wishing to emigrate or to work abroad.

Working with such a great team of professionals at Spire Leicester Hospital and in a setting that’s calm , unhurried and efficient is an absolute pleasure. Likewise the advantage of having consultants in almost every speciality within close proximity for a word of guidance or advice is a great bonus for our patients.

NB: File Photo.

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THE OCULIST iNDePeNDeNt OPticiaNS witH a DiffereNce iN PeterBOrOuGH

Dispensing opticians rob and Hannah have extensive spectacle lens knowledge. they discuss occupation and hobbies with you before they recommend a spectacle lens type. freeform varifocals and wrap around lenses are a speciality at the Oculist. Bespoke lenses can be designed to suit your occupation maximising your area of clear vision. the combination of these lenses with hard wearing anti-reflection coatings set you up to have amazing clarity whatever you are looking at. the Oculist also has an impressive range of contact lenses. “varifocal contact lenses are increasingly popular. Lots of our patients like the freedom of choosing whether they wear their glasses or wear contact lenses.” says dispensing optician Hannah. “we can fit you with daily replacement lenses, two weekly lenses or monthly lenses. we also fit hard lenses”.

it’s hard to imagine using the words “different” and “optician” in the same sentence but it’s instantly obvious when you visit the Oculist that things are a little different. clean lines and vibrant colours welcome you to the boutique environment. the impressive chandelier and restored parquet floor almost make you forget that you are in an Opticians.

children's eyewear is thought of along the same lines as adult eyewear. "we want our children to look amazing in their eyewear.

Glasses are a huge change for children so we want them to be confident and comfortable with their choice. i have worn glasses since i was five so i understand exactly how they feel". says Manager/ Dispensing Optician rob. "we get their lenses specially made so that they are not thick and heavy."

eyewear is exhibited like art in a gallery, fully accessible for you to try on at your leisure. the music and the smell of freshly ground coffee add to the ambience. the staff are enthusiastic and friendly, instantly make you feel at ease. they obviously love what they are doing and complement each other well as a team. the honesty when helping you with a style consultation is surprisingly refreshing. “ You are an advert for us everywhere you go wearing Oculist eyewear. if you choose a frame that we think is wrong for you we have to let you know. if your choice is wrong then you are a bad advert. we would rather not sell you a frame than let you buy the wrong one” says director Gerry Sondh.

Gerry’s goal in 2007 was to change the mindset for people when buying glasses. He wanted to make the experience fun and exciting rather than dull and necessary.

“People often get bored when they are choosing glasses and settle on a pair because they have limited availability or just can’t be bothered looking anymore. at the Oculist you will have lots of lovely frames choices to excite you. the hardest choice will be which frame to have first!”

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the combination of the ambient atmosphere backed up with a comprehensive selection of eye services makes the Oculist an attractive package. it is different and unique and well worth a visit.

Call now 01733 555 621 and book an appointment and prepare yourself for the complete eye experience.

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FASHION >> £ SEXY CHIC Stunning classic backless black dress with gold clasp detail. Worn with a floppy fedora hat with stud detail.

S

ail away this spring with Frank Lyman’s new Spring/Summer collection.

It’s all about stylish, chic ‘high fashion’ designs with bright and vibrant colours.

Frank Lyman started in the fashion industry at the tender age of 18. From the beginning when he began as a sales person, he knew he had a passion for fashion and design. Today, he is an internationally recognised brand, producing stunning, stylish collections.

From fun, flirty dresses to classic evening wear, jackets and tunics - this stylish but brilliantly stunning collection is sure to add colour and class to your wardrobe. There’s something to suit every woman and occasion.

These designs are all about making women feel stylish and sexy - creating confident, a little bit rebellious and above all, unique personalities. Frank Lyman’s aim is to accentuate feminity, whilst making you feel exciting and alluring.

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>>

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Sail Away fraNk LYMaN iS aN iNterNatiONaLLY recOGNiSeD BraND creatiNG StYLiSH, SexY cHic DeSiGNS tO acceNtuate feMiNitY. HiS HiGH DeMaND New cOLLectiON wiLL DefiNiteLY Have YOu PackiNG YOur SuitcaSe tHiS SPriNG...

Words: ceri Jackson

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<< £ ABOVE Blue bodycon dress with tribal pattern incorporating a mix of tropical colours. >> £ BIRD OF PARADISE Bodycon dress with on-trend pattern clash; polka dots, stripes and flowers.

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<< £ ABOVE Long-sleeved dress bursting with vibrant colours and flower detail. << £ STYLISH SAILOR Simple bodycon dress with stunning design.

Splashes of colour along the hem and shoulders definitely make this a statement piece this spring.

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>>

FASHION

£ LBD Every woman needs a little black dress in their wardrobe - and this dress comes with added sparkle on the side and flattering neckline. >> £ RIGHT Simple navy blue dress with gold detail on the neckline and side.

£ STOCKISTS for local stockists see www.franklyman.com.

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FASHION

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<< ÂŁABOVE Statement red trousers worn with a casual, colourful blouse. >> ÂŁ RIGHT Simple black trousers are given a burst of colour with this stylish top with side detail.

Add sunglasses to complete the stylish sailor look!

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<< £ ABOVE Make sure you dazzle in the sun with this embellished red jumper. << £ AHOY CAPTAIN Black trousers with a red, white and black geometric print top.

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Is this you?

If you’re a ‘first thing I think about when I wake up’ go-getter, a “let’s make it better,” a cold coffee drinker, a mid-morning thinker, a missed lunch groundbreaker, an afternoon risk taker, a falling to sleep with your spreadsheet reader...

You’ll appreciate an equally dedicated marketing leader.

THE BEST OF

APRIL 2014

APRIL

THE COUNTY

APRIL

2014 THE BEST OF

EVERY SINGLE MONTH

APRIL

LincolnshirePride T H E

N U M B E R

O N E

C O U N T Y

RutlandPride

E M A G A Z I N

RUTLAND & STAMFORD EVERY SINGLE MONTH

THE NUMBER ONE COUNTY MAGAZINE

er What’s On this Summ

Grantham Exploring our market towns {Page 15}

Eating Out Spring dining in Lincolnshire {Page 20}

Spring Homes 20 pages of home ideas {Page 52}

What’s On this Summ er Oundle Exploring our market towns {Page 15}

Eating Out Spring dining in Rutland {Page 20}

£3.70

gh Sir David Attenborou

Great Days Out for Families

Fashion - Food and Drink On Weddings - News - What’s

£3.70

n The Event at The Collectio

COVERING R UTLAND AND STAMFORD

ISSUE 141

Restaurant of the Month

STAP LEFO RD PAR K

Great Days Out for Families

Spring Homes 20 pages of home ideas {Page 52}

To advertise in Pride Magazines call our friendly team on 01529 469977. www.pridemagazines.co.uk

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ON THE FARM

BARRY POSTON This month Barry Poston reflects on the legacy of poor weather and its implications for farmers across Lincolnshire and Rutland for their arable crops...

M

ost local farmers minds over the last two to three months have been occupied with dealing with the excessive rainfall their farms had received.

However farmers in our part of the country have had nothing like the quantity of those on the western side of the UK, where considerable flooding has taken place on the Somerset levels and the Thames Valley areas, mainly due to the rivers not being able to deal with the increased quantity of water.

Most of these drainage boards were set up by our predecessors and we farmers are indeed fortunate to have the advantage of their foresight and work.

Local farmers will be hoping for some sun and winds to dry their saturated soil before sowing and planting can take place.

The eastern side of the country had not completely escaped the water problem following the high tidal surge late last year, which breached the east coast and caused flooding to domestic properties closer to home.

One concern I have, at this early spring stage, is how well the land will ‘work.’ I strongly suspect that with the battering from the heavy rains the soil will not easily come down to a fine tilth, and seedbeds for crops will be difficult to obtain.

Implications of flooding for local farmers could mean the loss of 40%-60% of pea crops, the decimation of potato and brassica crops, and a food shortage for livestock, as well as the ruination of land which could be used for future years’ crops.

I think farmers will have to be patient and wait for good conditions. ‘Well sown is half grown’ has always been a belief in my farming life, although it is always annoying to see your neighbour at work, as in life, patience is a virtue.

Much has been said and written about possible solutions, and my own personal view is that there is no doubt how fortunate we are in this area to have a whole series of Drainage Boards, composed mainly of local farmer, employing exceptional managers and engineers, who know our area well and provide a continuous service of maintenance to our dykes and drainage pumps.

With the arrival of spring there is, nonetheless, a sense of optimism to be found on the county’s farms.

New born lambs shall soon be gambolling about, and with daffodils and spring bulbs soon to make an appearance in our gardens and on our farms, we hope this season will be a good one for our hard-working food producers.

Words: Barry Poston.

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With regular clearance of rubbish and silt, the drains and rivers are kept in good condition and are generally able to deal with any excessive weather.

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ON THE FARM

with Barry Poston

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OUT & ABOUT fun foR fAMiLies April and May present the perfect opportunity to go out and about as a family. Here we present a guide to what to do in the spring and summer months and our guide to the best open gardens in the area...

Words: Rob Davis & Ceri Jackson.

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Hardys Animal Farm

Treat the kids this easter...

Fun For Families We know that keeping the kids entertained over half term can sometimes be hard, so we’ve taken a look at some of the best places to visit where you can spend some quality time together...

Words: Ceri Jackson.

£ Hardys Animal Farm Hardys Animal Farm is a great day out in over seven acres of Lincolnshire countryside, and just 10 minutes walk from the beach so you can even go for a paddle!

Feed the goats, cattle, and other animals, and teach your children about modern farming.

There is plenty of space for the kids to burn off energy in the adventure playgrounds or outdoor fort, or you can relax in the tearooms with a hot drink or a bite to eat.

If the sun is shining, you will be able to enjoy a cart ride around the farm with Gemma the Shire Horse or Fergie the Tractor.

Admission is £6.25, and children under three are free. Family tickets are available.

Visit www.hardysanimalfarm.co.uk.

£ Twinlakes Theme Park Discover fun round every corner at Twinlakes, the beautiful park tucked under the Wolds. It is packed with acres of action, rides, indoor play centres an outdoor waterpark and animals galore. From the Labyrinth Centre Zone, Buccaneers Island Zone and Creepy Critters Zone to the Gauntlet Falconry Centre and Red Rooster Zoo Farm - it is guaranteed to be a great day out for the whole family.

Visit www.twinlakespark.co.uk for more information and ticket prices.

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Out and About

Get Crafty & Creative...

We take a look at some at the best places where you can get crafty with the kids...

National Centre for Craft & Design Natureland Seal Sanctuary

Take part in a variety of workshops involving felt toys and creatures, like Dinky Designers and Listen, Make & Create.

01529 308710.

Pots of Fun Pots of fun is great fun for all the family and you don’t have to be an artist to create your very own masterpiece! www.potsoffunboston.co.uk

£ The National Parrot Sanctuary The sanctuary has over 1,700 birds, and is a perfect place for parrots and parakeets.

Not only will you see the UK’s largest collection of parrots, there is also an array of different mammals, reptiles and species of birds at the zoo. Discover the family of meerkats, the ring tailed lemurs and the amazing coatimundis. You can hear the Australian alarm clocks of the kookaburras and dotted around the zoo are the elegant cranes. That’s just a few of the wonderful creatures you will meet!

Admission is £7.95 per adult, and £7.50 per child. Family tickets are available.

Visit www.parrotzoo.com.

Twinlakes Theme Park.

Creation Station

£ Natureland Seal Sanctuary Natureland in Skegness is known for rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured seal pups.

Since opening, Natureland has helped and returned to the wild many other unusual animals too, including dolphins and whales, a ‘lost’ walrus and pelican, and many oiled seabirds and injured birds of prey. At the sanctuary you will be able to see the seals at the different stages of their rehabilitation and hear about the rescue work during their feeding times.

It isn’t just seals either! Watch the amusing antics of the penguins, see the tropical butterflies, squirm at the reptiles and creepy crawlies, feed the goats in the Pets Corner and marvel at the beautiful tropical fish in the aquarium.

Admission is £7.80 per adult, and £5.20 per child. There are also family tickets available. Visit www.skegnessnatureland.co.uk

it’s all about having a go at the Creation station there’s a range of classes for children to learn arts and crafts, or take part in an arty party. www.thecreationstation.co.uk

Get Buggy!

Why not drop in with the family for an interesting bug session followed by fun craft activities at Rutland Water. £3 for each participant. www.rutlandwater.org.uk

Creations Pottery As well as dropping in for an art activity like pottery or decopatch, there are workshops and Baby & Toddler art and craft play sessions. www.creationspottery.co.uk

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Sacrewell Farm & County Park

£ Rutland Falconry & Owl Centre Housing a fascinating collection of hundreds of birds of prey from all round the world, the centre provides a natural setting for owls, hawks, falcons, buzzards, eagles and vultures.

With maturing ponds, a purpose-built wild bird feeding station and a variety of nesting boxes – this really is a paradise where a mix of bird species sing all year round. You can view the birds on display in their habitats, take a woodland walk, or get up close and personal with birds of prey! We also recommend using binoculars to catch glimpse of the fallow deer, muntjac, foxes, badgers and other animals.

Admission is £5 per adult and £3.50 per child.

Children under 5 are free of charge. Family tickets are available. Visit www.rutland-falconry.com.

Rutland Falconry & Owl Centre

Wicksteed Park

£ Sacrewell Farm & County Park

£ Wicksteed Park

Jump on a tractor ride to learn about the work they do at Sacrewell Farm, feed the friendly animals and make the most of the indoor and outdoor play areas.

Located in 150 acres of Grade II parkland, Wicksteed Park boasts rides, playgrounds, lakeside walks, and the UK’s busiest narrow gauge railway.

At the small animal Village and Discovery Centre you can see smaller animals like guinea pigs, rabbits and chicks, and you can have a go at milking the dummy cow too! There is also the Sacrewell Mill, which dates from about the middle of the 18th century.

It has one of the biggest free playgrounds in Europe, and the fairground has a mixture of classic rides like the carousel and pirate ship. If you want a bit of action, then the Arena is the place for you! Here you will find lots of rollercoasters perfect for thrill seekers. For water lovers, visit The Lakeside and row over the Wicksteed Lake, or ride the original Waterchute from 1926.

Make sure you see the Shire horses, visit the ducks at Mill Pond, or go on the Wildlife Trail a great way to explore the natural history that surrounds Sacrewell Farm.

Before you leave, stop by the Mill House and Garden where you can sit and relax in the truly beautiful English garden and enjoy a scrumptious cream tea.

Admission is £7.50 per adult, and £5.50 per child which includes gift aid. There are also family tickets available. Visit www.sacrewell.org.uk.

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Jump on the Monorail for fantastic views, or try out Mr Wicksteed’s Cars great for the younger crowd.

The Wicksteed Park Railway is one of the most iconic features at the park, and over 15,000,000 people have taken to its rails since it first opened in 1931.

Visit www.wicksteedpark.co.uk for information and ticket prices.

More Great Places to Visit £ Batemans Brewery Tour Take a tour of the brewery based in Wainfleet. www.bateman.co.uk

£ Conkers Award winning attraction at the heart of the national forest. www.visitconkers.com

£ Pigeons Farm A great day out with lots of farm animals and birds. www.pigeonsfarm.co.uk

£ Nene Valley Railway A heritage railway. www.nvr.org.uk

£ Sundown Adventureland A well established theme park for all the family. www.sundownadventureland.co.uk

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Your ticket is valid for a whole year so visit time and time again at no extra cost.

sounds and even smells of the times with the interactive displays.

Tickets cost £13 for one adult, and £11 per child. Family tickets are also available.

Visit www.spacecentre.co.uk.

Join the fishermen in the Freeman’s Arms and experience the moving deck, visit the dockside shop, and enjoy some delicious fish and chips!

£ The Collection

Three ‘Must See’

Museums to Visit...

Keep the kids learning and their minds active this easter... £ National Space Centre From the moment you catch sight of the Space Centre’s futuristic Rocket Tower, you'll be treated to hours of discovery and interactive fun.

Come face-to-face with the area’s earliest inhabitants and heritage through artifacts displays and reconstructions, activities, touch-screen games, and the kids can dress up in authentic historical costumes too!

Take a discovery backpack into the galleries or try one of the quizzes or trails, before exploring the art collections in the Usher Gallery and relaxing in the cafe.

For younger visitors, discover Play - a free activity centre that encourages learning through play. Admission is free.

Visit www.thecollectionmuseum.com.

£ Fishing Heritage Centre

There are six galleries to explore, crammed full of space suits, rockets, satellites, meteorites and so much more!

Take a leaf out of The Duchess of Cambridge’s book, and visit the Fishing Heritage Centre in Grimsby.

Visit the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium combining the latest video technologies, sound and computer animation to immerse you in a 360º cinema experience.

Sign up as a crew member and find out what life was like for trawlermen in the 1950’s. As you go on a journey of discovery, you can experience the sights,

Climb aboard the Ross Tiger trawler moored adjacent to the museum, where you can listen to tales told by the trawler guides about their days out at sea.

There are two exhibition rooms at the museum and both are free of charge and suitable for all ages. The kids can even get dressed up! Ahoy mateys.

Tickets cost £6 for one adult, £2 per child.

Family tickets are available. 01472 323345.

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SKEGNESS NATURELAND SEAL SANCTUARY natureland is situated on skegness seafront and has a specialised collection of animals including seals, penguins, meerkats, tropical butterflies (April to october), tropical birds, sea life exhibit, aquarium, reptiles, pets corner and many more.

Known world wide for its rescue of orphaned baby seal pups that become stranded on beaches around the Wash and has been successful in rearing and returning to their natural environment a large number of these beautiful creatures. feeding time is a great favourite with both children and adults. The seals like to show off their talents to the visitors and an informative talk is given on seals, Penguins and seal Rescue work, whilst they are being fed. The meerkats are one of natureland’s newest arrivals.

Watch them foraging for food and basking in the sunshine.

Another children’s ’favourite is the Pets Corner where goats, sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens can all be hand fed with food available from the Gift shop. Large displays of tropical marine and freshwater fish and smaller displays of local marine invertebrates make the Aquarium a fascinating and educational experience. snakes, scorpions, crocodiles and tarantula spiders plus other reptiles and insects inhabit the Tropical House. These are all made to feel at home by the jungle sound effects. When you have seen all there is to see, you can relax in the refreshment area or browse through the beautiful souvenirs in the Gift shop. natureland takes pride in it’s commitment to the care of animals and welcomes the opportunity to share this knowledge with our visitors.

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FLY FISHING on RuTLAnD WATeR

A

s spring arrives, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect time get outside and learn a new skill.

Rutland Water is regarded as one of the finest trout fishing lakes in europe and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right on our doorstep. Why not get involved this season and learn the art of fly fishing.

Rutland fly fishing Adventures offers fun and friendly, award winning fly fishing courses, trips and expert guiding for individuals, couples, parent and child options and groups on this world famous lake, from bank or boat, choose from half or full day activities.

Rutland businesses can bring colleagues for a team building day or reward clients with some time on the water, or how about an unusual stag day event, fishing from boats.

For all details see www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk or Rob Waddington on 01572 722422 rob@learntoflyfish.co.uk

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Organically Managed: Hedgehog Hall, Tilton.

OPEN GARDENS What could be nicer than spending some time appreciating the area’s most beautiful gardens? How about doing so knowing that you’re supporting some of the most worthwhile charities at the same time?

This month sees the release of the National Garden Scheme’s annual Yellow Book - a comprehensive guide to Open Gardens in our county...

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Open Gardens

Around the County

The NGS’s Little Yellow Book has over 3,700 gardens across the UK, and 750,000 visitors last year raised over £2.5m for charity. This month sees the first of the participating gardens inviting visitors to appreciate their beauty, and most offer teas and home made cakes, cuttings and plant sales, all to raise money for charity. If you’re looking for a place to go on a warm spring afternoon, these are our pick of the NGS’s Open Gardens for April and May...

Hammond Arboretum

Burghley House Private South Gardens

open 23rd March and by appointment in April.

A site of just under 2½-acres containing an unusual collection of trees and shrubs, many from francis Hammond’s original planting dating from 1913 to 1936 whilst headmaster of the school. species from America, China and Japan with malus and philadelphus walks and a moat.

Robert Smyth Academy Market Harborough, LE16 7LG.

on 12th and 13th April the Private south Gardens at Burghley House will open for the nGs with spectacular spring bulbs in park like setting with magnificent trees and the opportunity to enjoy Capability Brown's famous lake and summerhouse. entry to the Private south Gardens via orangery. The Garden of surprises, sculpture Garden and house are open as normal.

Admission £3.50/adult, £2/child, Stamford PE9 3YJ.

Tresillian House, Melton Mowbray

Easton Walled Gardens

open from April, by appointment, and in May. secluded garden on southern side of Melton Mowbray. ¾ acre garden re-established by new owner between 2009 and 2012. Beautiful blue cedar trees, excellent specimen tulip tree. Parts of garden original, others reinstated with variety of plants and bushes. original bog garden and pond. Vegetable plot. Parts left uncultivated with wild cowslips and grasses.

Dalby Road, Melton Mowbray LE13 0BQ. Tel: 01664 481997.

open friday 18th April. 12 acres of 400yr old forgotten gardens undergoing extensive renovation. set in parkland with dramatic views.

16th century garden with Victorian embellishments. italianate terraces; yew tunnel; snowdrops and cut flower garden. David Austin roses, meadows and sweet pea collections.

Cottage and vegetable gardens.

1m off A1 at Grantham, signposted B6403. www.eastonwalledgardens.co.uk.

£ oPen GARDens Remember to take a camera to picture features, ideas or particular plants that have inspired you for your own garden.

Most gardens that open for the nGs have a small entry fee, so remember to take some change with you - naturally the entrance fee goes to charity.

Don’t be afraid to ask the owner for the names of particular plants or for cuttings.

Open Gardens are as much about the exchange of ideas as appreciation for the garden itself!

You can obtain a copy of the nGs’s Yellow Book - or send one to a friend or family member as a thoughtful gift! see over to find out how.

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A Grand Day Out...

The area also has gardens and stately homes that create a grand day out for the whole family not too far from home...

Barnsdale Gardens, Oakham 38 gardens spread over eight acres, founded

by BBC Gardener’s World’s Geoff Hamilton in 1983. Open seven days, £7/adults. www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

Belton House, Grantham 35 acres of gardens at the National Trust owned stately home. Open daily, guided walks on 24th May. Italian gardens with orangery and picturesque fountain, Dutch gardens with lavender and topiary. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Deene Park, Corby Located near Corby, off A43 just past Stamford.

Open 18th May and other times TBC. Interesting garden set in beautiful parkland. Large parterre with topiary designed by David Hicks echoing the 16th century decoration on the porch stonework, long mixed borders, old-fashioned roses, Tudor courtyard and white garden. www.deenepark.com

Grimsthorpe Castle, Bourne Open 13th April, with 15 acres of formal and woodland gardens incl bulbs and wildflowers.

Formal gardens encompass fine topiary, roses, herbaceous borders and unusual ornamental kitchen garden. www.grimsthorpe.co.uk

Gunby Hall, Spilsby Eight acre National Trust managed garden once Tennyson’s Haunt of Ancient Peace. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Look out for villages getting together to organise an open Garden event with several homes open to the public at the same time...

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Open Gardens

Around the County

Willow Cottage, Burgh le Marsh open 18th, 21st and 23rd April. Warmly, welcoming english Cottage Garden, painters palette of natural planting. Meandering pathways to discover, tranquil spots where you’ll long to linger. This is a beautiful setting for afternoon tea, and a hidden gem not to be missed!

Six miles west of Skegness at Burgh-le-Marsh, www.willowcottagecl.webs.com.

Goltho House, Market Rasen open 27th April. 4 ½-acre garden started in 1998 but looking established with long grass walk flanked by abundantly planted herbaceous borders forming a focal point. Paths and walkway span out to other features including nut walk, prairie border, wild flower meadow, rose garden and large pond area.

Off A15 near Wragby, LN8 5NF. www.golthogardens.com.

Hedgehog Hall, Tilton on the Hill eight miles west of oakham, open on 4th and 5th May. Half acre organically managed plant lover’s garden. steps leading to three stone-walled terraced borders filled with shrubs, perennials and bulbs. Lavender walk, herb border, spring garden, colour themed long border and serpentine island bed packed with campanulas, astrantias, sanguisorbas, roses, clematis and Main: The nGs guide will help you find open Garden events across the county.

Far Left: Grimsthorpe Castle’s parterre hedges.

Left: Gain ideas and inspiration for your own garden by exploring other people’s gardens.

Right: The formal Pool and Knot Garden at Barnsdale gardens features four beautiful bronze statues.

Many of the county’s open Garden events include plant stalls, cuttings for sale and of course, teas with delicious home made cakes.

750,000 open Garden visitors last year raised £2.5m for charity last year...

many more. sheltered walled courtyard filled with hostas, ferns and wisteria.

Loddington Toad, Tilton LE7 9DE. Tel: 01162 597339.

Barleythorpe Gardens, Oakham open 4th May, visit three beautiful gardens in this Rutland village. Dairy Cottage with interesting and unusual shrubs and spring bulbs.

The Lodge features mixed flowers within walled garden, and Barleythorpe House, on Manor Lane offers both water and woodland. flowering shrubs, small lake and woodland walk.

One mile from Oakham on A6006 LE15 7EQ.

Grantham House, Castlegate, Grantham open 4th May, delightful secret garden in a medieval setting. Created by plantswoman Lady Molly Wyldbore-smith and in the process of restoration. five acres of unusual trees and shrubs with colour themed herbaceous borders. features incl gravel garden, iris walk and box parterre. Woodland area carpeted with bulbs and in the orchard, a wild flower meadow Barnsdale plant stall.

Off A607 opp Church Street. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Braunston & Withcote Gardens open 11th May, two miles south of oakham. start your visit at Quaintree Hall in Braunston, an established garden surrounding the medieval hall. Continue on to Preston Lodge, to see an extensive garden surrounding a beautiful ironstone Lodge in a picturesque country setting.

Dramatic views across a small valley to mature woodland beyond, this garden features small formal gardens surrounding the house, sweeping lawns planted with spring bulbs and mown walkways into woodland.

Located in Braunston and Withcote, LE15 8QS.

Whissendine Gardens, Oakham open 25th May. Two beautiful gardens in this Rutland village. The old Vicarage and Whissendine Cottage.

Five miles North of Oakham, LE15 7HG.

Finding Out More THE NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME The nGs publishes The Yellow Book, a guide to over 3,700 gardens - the so-called ‘bible’ of garden visiting. order a copy for £9.99 online at www.ngs.org.uk or call 01483 211535.

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A RIVER NENE ADVENTURE Another hiring season is about to start and at nene Valley Boats it's a busy time. This small family firm has been hiring holiday boats on the River nene for 7 years but for the 2014 season they have moved downriver from their small rural base, into oundle Marina Village. "its going to be an exciting year for us" says Carol Macintyre who together with her husband Dan Jones, runs the small fleet of narrowboats. "We love the quietness of the nene. it's never busy even at the height of summer and because its so peaceful you see so much more of the wildlife." Their boats can accommodate up to six people and full tuition on how to drive one comes as part of the package. "some customers have done a lot of cruising and others have done none - they all get a handover that suits their experience” says Dan who has helped countless novice boaters through their first river lock. “We want our customers to feel confident and stay safe on the river so we spend time with them making sure they know the ropes. That way they'll be sure to have a relaxing holiday.” nene Valley Boats is open from April until the end of october and offers a range of three, four and seven night breaks for anyone wanting a taste of boating life. Their website nenevalleyboatholidays.com has suggested routes for different lengths of trip and there is a mobile app full of useful information to guide holidaymakers up and down the river.

Boat holidays are great for families or friends who want to enjoy the great outdoors but with the comforts of home.

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CHURCHILL SUMMER CAMPS Why not give your child a holiday to remember and let them join in the fun at churchill Summer campS? many children join us for the first time at the age of 4 and come year on year until they outgrow us at 14!

We have been operating in the Stamford and peterborough area for over 20 years and for the past two years in oakham during the school holidays.

We are not just a sports camp, we offer an extensive range of over 30 activities (quad biking, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, bouncy castle, orienteering, cooking to name a few) to suit all ages and interests. our day camps are a great opportunity for children to make new friends and to try out new activities in a safe environment, surrounded by supportive and experienced staff. We are ofsted registered and are regularly inspected to ensure we meet ofsted requirements. all our staff are dbS checked.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our childcare and our excellent staff ratios.

We now run at every school holiday in peterborough and have extended the number of weeks we are in Stamford over the summer.

We are happy to accept payment by childcare vouchers.

Please telephone 01780 753461 or email info@churchillsummercamps.co.uk for further details.

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£ CYCLING EVENTS

£ BELTON HORSE TRIALS

, What s On...

£ STRICTLY DANCING

£ PETER PAN

£ RUTLAND WATER

If you are a fan of the BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, then you will love An Evening with Stars from Strictly Come Dancing at The Cresset on 12th April.

This spectacular musical adaptation at Stamford Arts Centre tells the tale about the boy who never grows up. Let your imagination take you to Neverland to meet the Lost Boys, Indians and Captain Hook – not forgetting silly sidekick Smee!

With enchanting songs, plenty of fun and laughter and a sprinkling of fairy dust, this is the perfect afternoon out.

On Tuesday 15th April at 2.30pm; tickets are £8 or £28.00 for a family of four. www.stamfordartscentre.com 01780 763203

Cycling Around Rutland Water On Sunday April 13th at 9.30am, there will be a special cycling weekend with guided tours around the reservoir. For £10 you can try different bikes over the course of the day.

This live theatre features two of the stars, Pasha Kovalev and Katya Virshilas with a much larger production, beautiful costumes, and a series of stunning dance routines.

They will be accompanied by a full audio visual backdrop and light show, and there will be a Q&A section plus an appearance by a local dance school.

Not content with all that, the show will also feature the opportunity for the audience to get involved and dance on-stage with the stars resulting in this production being the ultimate show for any ‘Strictly’ fan!

Tickets are £26. www.cresset.co.uk 01733 265705

Dare 2b CiCLE Tour 2014 Hosted on 26th and 27th April - watch the pros tackle Britain's biggest and most spectacular road race and tackle the same route yourself with the Dare2b CiCLE Tour. There will be free bike safety checks, roadside repair sessions, nutrition talks and plans.

Get Lost in Rutland For all your cycling needs, we recommend Get Lost, based at Rutland Garden Centre on Ashwell Road, Oakham (01572 868 712, www.getlostinrutland.co.uk).

Get Lost is also hosting a Nordic Walking course on April 23rd from 11.30am - get in touch to find out more. www.rutlandwater.org.uk 01572 770651

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COMING UP...

Rutland Cycling and Walking Festival 2014... if you enjoy Walking or cycling With Stunning vieWS, you’re in for a treat next month!

£ AN EVENING WITH THE STARS - STRICTLY COME DANCING

£ HORSE TRIALS

£ NIGHT OF PROMS

Belton Horse trials take place from Friday 4th to 6th April and this year is being run in conjunction with The National Trust.

The Mayor of Peterborough, Councillor June Stokes, will host the annual ‘Last Night of the Proms’ on Sunday 27th April.

The event will raise money for chosen charities Inspire Peterborough, Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, Wednesday PHAB Club and Parents United.

For the first time ever, entry includes access to the beautiful grounds of Belton House and the adventure playground, shop and everything else on offer.

Many top event riders from the UK and Europe will be competing for the Lycetts Grantham Cup, and there will be other competitions like the Inter-Hunt Relay, Unaffiliated Dressage and Pony Club Mounted Games and Stallion Parade.

Other activities include the Dog Show, Dog Agility, a 10K Trail Run and the Grantham Classic Car Club will be there with their display of historic cars.

Ladies Lunch and Expert’s Eye will feature again, and a variety of arena attractions and entertainment will ensure there is something for everyone! www.belton-horse.co.uk 01949 829 061

It will feature the usual favourites, along with well known pieces performed by local musicians. So wave your Union Jacks and raise your bowler hats in a fun filled evening full of popular classics and favourite tunes. Tickets are £15. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 01733 207239

Rutland is a beautiful rural county to visit, especially if you appreciate walks with stunning views and an interesting history.

The Rutland Walking and Cycling Festival is a two week celebration of Rutland's beautiful landscape and the many walks and cycle routes. They will be led by qualified volunteer walk and bike leaders.

There will be a ride to suit everyone, from family and nature rides to a led cycle ride around Rutland Water. From Sunday 18th May to Saturday 31st May, you can enjoy a full programme of different led walks and cycle rides in Rutland, all for free!

For more information, call 01572 720921 www.discover-rutland.co.uk/walking-festival

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Chill out, in the Caribbean...

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Worry BE HAPPY When columbus stumbled upon the islands of the caribbean he discovered a beautiful destination drenched with year-round sunshine! from the white sands of St lucia or antigua, to the distinctive culture of barbados thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something to suit everyone looking for their perfect holiday getaway!

Words: ceri jackson

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Explore the beautiful protected bays and coral reefs of the Caribbean.

There are plenty of sites to choose from.

The Caribbean islands boast an array of white sandy beaches, the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun!

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Caribbean Cocktails: the caribbean is celebrated as the spiritual home of rum, and it has been intertwined with its culture and heritage for nearly 400 years. there is a modest rhyme, originating from the shores of the caribbean that says: “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak.” these poetic words make up the first ever rum punch recipe. Since then, bartenders have been evolving and adapting ingredients to satisfy our senses and conjure up pure heaven in a glass. here we give you some of the the most popular rum cocktails to try that will allow you to unwind and savour the true taste of the caribbean.

A Caribbean Classic... the perfect start to a fun evening has to be the classic Mojito, a refreshing mix of white rum, lime, mint leaves and club soda.

Jamaica... jamaica is well known for its laid back party atmosphere and reggae music, and they have a lot of famed beverages. rum has an official classification system, categorised from light and clear to rich and dark varieties. Planter’s Punch combines dark rum, lemon juice, grenadine syrup and angostura bitters making a potent mix of 44.7% alcohol, herbs and spices that come from trinidad and tobago. another must is an Old Jamaican, with the fresh taste of mint and lime, rum, syrup and angostura bitters topped with a splash of champagne.

Barbados... barbados plays home to one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world: mount gay rum, which has been in operation since 1703. you can take a tour of the distillery, which will please rum fans! make sure you try a Rum Punch - full of flavour with lime juice, syrup, rum and add a dash of angostura bitters.

Antigua... home to many notable celebrities like eric clapton and richard branson, antigua has a rich history. the island’s most famous crop is the black pineapple, which is green when it’s at its most ripe stage. make sure you try an Antiguan Smile, with rum, crème de banana and fresh pineapple juice from the island.

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RECOMMENDATIONS

Chill out in the Caribbean

1

With a rugged eastern coastline by the Atlantic, and a western coast lapped by the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados is the ultimate beach destination. 21 miles long and 14 miles wide, there is a distinct West Indian culture with arts, theatre, music and nightlife. The capital city of Bridgetown offers great shopping, galleries and theatres.

There’s also a number of historical, architectural and natural interest sites.

Party in St Lawrence, where bars and nightclubs rub shoulders with old rum shops and karaoke dens. Oistin’s Fish Fry is a must on a Friday or Saturday, where hundreds flock for an opportunity to enjoy the very best local food. A two week stay in April for two adults will cost around £6,000.

2

Laid back St Lucia is the place to lounge in your hammock and enjoy total relaxation. Wonderful white sandy beaches, mountainous interior and lush rainforest set it apart. The popular holiday resorts are on the north-west shore with sheltered white sand beaches and quaint fishing villages. On the west you’ll find luxury hotels tucked away with fabulous views of the Pitons – two towering volcanic plugs. The Atlantic side of the island is good for nature lovers and the southern tip of the island is popular for kite and windsurfing. There’s definitely plenty of activities for adventure-lovers.

It will cost around £6,400 for a two week stay in April for two adults.

3

Antigua boasts white sandy beaches, jaw-dropping views, protected bays and coral reefs, small coves, one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world and an abundance of land and sea tours. You’re guaranteed fun-filled days with snorkelling, deep sea fishing, golf, rainforest adventures, historical tours, scuba-diving, hiking and sailing to name a few! A two week stay for two will cost around £5,800.

4

Jamaica is a beautiful tropical island full of stunning scenery, sandy beaches and lush rainforests.

You can enjoy a variety of activities, and climb the spectacular cascading Dunn’s River Falls, swim with dolphins, or go ziplining through the rainforest canopy.

The beaches are a lure for many, especially Negril with its seven-mile white sand beach, lively Ocho Rios with its collection of beaches for sun-worshippers, and Montego Bay with calm waters.

There is a strong musical culture, and the Jamaican cuisine is a pot of flavours reflecting the different cultures that have influenced the island over the years.

A two week stay in April for two adults will cost around £7,500.

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TRAVEL

Caribbean

Enjoy a romantic meal by the sea with breaktaking views.

Below/Left: thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots to do in jamaica, including swimming with dolphins!

Below/Right: the caribbean islands are the perfect place to relax and unwind together.

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TO VIEW AND PURCHASE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ‘THE EVENT’ VISIT WWW.PRIDEMAGAZINES.CO.UK

THE EVENT Cottesmore Hunt Ball 2014 The Cottesmore Hunt Ball recently took place with over 400 attendees from across Rutland, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire supporting the group, which was established in 1666 by Henry, Viscount Lowther. The event took place at the beautiful new Ladywood Estate in Knossington near Oakham, and featured a three course supper created

by The Rutland Gourmet, Sarah Rivett. Live music from a party band and a disco made the evening a mix of fun and fundraising for the group, with prizes including the chance to spend a day with the masters, and a VIP box at Cheltenham Races. A selection of images are shown here, taken by Rutland Pride’s Rob Davis, but you can see all of our images online at www.rutlandpride.co.uk.

Tickets for the event were limited in number to just 400 guests.

Prom, ParTy & EVEning WEar sPECialisTs Eight minutes from lincoln City Centre

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THE EVENT Cottesmore

Hunt Ball 2014

The event was held at The Ladywood Estate in Knossington.

The hunt was established in 1666 and its territory includes both Rutland and Leicestershire.

The region’s largest dress stockist promises a shopping experience like no other • Buy & Hire • Celebrity Brands • Every taste, style & colour available Visit our website for full details & our opening hours

40 Hall lane, Branston, lincoln ln4 1Py Telephone: 01522 793777

www.redcarpetready.co.uk | facebook.com/redcarpetreadyltd

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The event featured a three course meal followed by live music and a disco.

Images by Rob Davis.

Prom, ParTy & EVEning WEar sPECialisTs Eight minutes from lincoln City Centre

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THE EVENT Cottesmore

Hunt Ball 2014

All of our images are available to purchase online.

The region’s largest dress stockist promises a shopping experience like no other • Buy & Hire • Celebrity Brands • Every taste, style & colour available Visit our website for full details & our opening hours

40 Hall lane, Branston, lincoln ln4 1Py Telephone: 01522 793777

www.redcarpetready.co.uk | facebook.com/redcarpetreadyltd

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New SUV: The XC60’s 2014 refresh brings a new engine range plus a stylish new interior.

MOTORING NEWS

Volvo XC60... a few years back, the Swedish manufacturer promised ‘no more stuffy, sober, boxy models!’ these days volvo produces cars with both the safety credentials for which it’s renowned, and charisma too... its small 4x4 is the latest example!

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MOTORS Volvo

A

number of years ago, the small SUV - or Sports Utility Vehicle was born. Land Rover’s Freelander and Honda’s CRV led the charge.

A 4x4 style body with two or four wheel drive, provided a little extra ground clearance for country lanes and an elevated driving position for a feeling of safety.

The Swedes are fighting back with a new XC60, and the results are impressive. It’s pricey, and so probably more suited to compete with the Evoque and premium offerings from Audi and BMW, rather than the cheaper Qashqai and CX5.

Above: Spec wise, all models from the entry-level Se have four electric windows, electric mirrors, parking sensors, bluetooth, cruise and climate control.

That means the Volvo has to be seen as a premium product to justify its £31,000-£43,000 price tag.

The company fought back with its XC90 model, with seven seats and yacht-like proportions, and later it added the smaller XC60 to its stable. It also promised cars with more charisma, and by and large, modern Volvos have a bit more panache than their forebears.

There are four engines from launch; a 2.0 five cylinder diesel with front wheel drive, a 2.4 five cylinder diesel with all wheel drive and 163hp, a 2.5 five cylinder diesel with 215hp, and a 3.0 V6 petrol with 304hp. The latter sprints to 60mph in 6.5 seconds, but achieves a pitiful 26.4mpg. Our recommendation is the entry level all wheel drive model, which achieves 53mpg in manual form, reaches 60mph in 10.5 seconds and will reach 120mph flat out. There’s an automatic gearbox option too, with a 10mpg penalty, so our advice is to stick with the standard six-speed self-shifter.

The XC60 has been getting a little long in the tooth, and there’s a long list of competitors snapping at the car’s heels: Nissan’s brand new Qashqai, Land Rover’s Freelander and especially its Evoque model, plus Mazda’s CX5, Honda’s latest CRV, Audi’s Q3 and BMW’s X3 model all want a piece of the action.

Spec wise, all models from the entry-level SE have four electric windows, electric mirrors, parking sensors, Bluetooth, cruise and climate control. There’s a sporty version of this trim, R-Design, with 18” wheels and sports seats. SE Lux and R-Design Lux models add electric leather seats, xenon headlights, auto lights and

It’s easy to see why SUVs became popular, but the poor old family estate car fell out of favour as a result, and one of the biggest casualties of that change in the market was Volvo, whose big, sober, safe, boxy estate models suffered.

XC60

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MOTORS

Volvo XC60

wipers. SE, SE Lux, R-Design and R-Design Lux models are also available as Nav variants too, with European sat nav and voice control.

Volvo XC60 Price: £30,735 - £43,550. (d4 aWd Se lux nav £36,285).

On Sale: now.

Engines: 2.0v5 diesel 163hp, 2.4v5 diesel 163hp, 2.4v5 diesel 215hp, 3.0v6 petrol 304hp.

Economy: 53.3mpg comb.

(2.4v5 diesel, manual).

Equipment: climate control, cruise control, four electric windows, 5” screen, dab/uSb/aux audio, bluetooth.

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Our recommendation, then, is the SE Lux Nav four wheel drive with the 163hp, 2.4 diesel engine and manual gearbox. However, at £36,285, you could, instead, have a range-topping Qashqai with more boot space, and items of spec like 360° cameras, and heated seats... plus nearly £10,000 change! You could also have a Range Rover Evoque in Pure Tech spec with the firm’s brand new nine speed gearbox, and will have £2,000 change... and therein lies the Volvo’s problem.

The Qashqai brings great value to the table, whilst the Evoque sports a coveted Range Rover badge. When Porsche releases its Macan small off-roader, it’ll bring immense driving pleasure and badge kudos, too.

The Evoque by comparison is also a stunning looking car. With its rakish roofline, new bronze shade and a contrasting black roof, or bright red paint job with a white roof, it can look really dramatic and fun. Equally, with any of the dark blue or silver paint colours, it looks just as good, in a more restrained way. The XC60, on the other hand, is always conservative.

Being a car of Swedish extraction, there are four winter packs with heated seats, steering wheel, washer jets and windscreen. Xenon headlights, bending headlights and snow socks are all included too. Of slightly more use in our neck of the woods and for the car’s intended market is integrated child booster seats, built into the car’s rear seats, and available for just £300.

The one additional option we’d choose is a Driver Support Package which includes pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, collision warning, road sign sensing and automatic braking - at £1,900 it’s expensive, but you’ll recoup the cost by avoiding just one minor accident.

Inside, the XC60 is perhaps able to make a better case for itself. A wrap-around fascia, intuitive heating controls and funky dashboard all look great. There’s lots of space around the climate control dials, which leads to an uncluttered dash, but as a consequence, there’s lots of fiddly smaller buttons in between, with tertiary heating and infotainment buttons all mixed in together, which hardly aids usability.

Interior niggles are a shame, because the materials are generally of high quality and Volvo’s seats are always regarded as the most comfortable and supportive on a long drive, compared to any other manufacturer.

The Volvo has a premium feel with its chrome bodywork. Likewise, its engines are impressively quiet under idle and gentle acceleration. Only when worked hard does the engine sound harsh, and it’s cleaner than Land Rover’s engines too.

Comfortable, quiet and practical, the latest incarnation of the XC60 is a good all-rounder.

It drives well and is refined beyond its sector.

There’s plenty of technology and a premium feel, but in comparison to its competitors, it does look expensive... and perhaps a little conservative, too.

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Crosswords...

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

ACROSS 7. Unholy pact due to shake-up at the top (4,5) 8. Dragon's lost its heat? (5) 9. Quality of Lord Bragg's speech on aid led to reform being added to agenda, finally (9) 10. Community in the bosom of Abraham is holy (5) 12. A paper's letters are published (6) 13. Judge retired in the Valleys? (8) 14. Deep and stormy bay — an endless minute (7) 17. Edits references to bloody deeds (7) 20. American text edited so as to avoid public scrutiny (2,6) 22. Determined to be successful, probably after taking power (6) 24. Newspaper for a safe job in the City? (5) 25. Disaffected agents join red revolution (9) 26. Newspaper articles on traditional music (5) 27. Dogs (not bitches) don't bark? (9)

DOWN 1. Delay of an hour on the way out to Oxford? (4-2) 2. Observer's leader writer on point of candour (8) 3. Mirror restrained, one says? It never happened! (6) 4. Something to tuck into, a bit of fun, you might say, inside back page (7) 5. Something fishy in letter from Athens, beginning with moneymaking scheme (6) 6. Front page with perhaps "Horse In Tent" cover … (8) 11. … could be stallion in newspaper report (4) 15. Silly chap, Spooner, to polish a divan, say (8) 16. Times backs predecessor of man at the top (4) 18. Diver (a Pole) takes gold (8) 19. Sun in shock report! Boatman follows it (7) 21. The Clash produced a very loud version of "Shaft" (6) 22. Drink: shock report! (6) 23. Guardian retrospective on royalty (6)

DOWN

1. Characterised by internal strife (8) 5. Party disciplinarian (4) 9. Water as vapour (5) 10. 17th-century French painter (7) 11. Area of piracy in earlier days (7,5) 13. Plain cotton cloth (6) 14. Individual firing from cover (6) 17. Half (5,3,4) 20. (From now) into the future (7) 21. Compound of oxygen and another element (5) 22. Projectile (4) 23. Very happy (8)

1. Agitate (4) 2. It's struck in snooker (3,4) 3. Where I don't want otherwise desirable developments (2,2,8) 4. Referee (6) 6. Athos (anag) — plant (5) 7. Hole in tyre (8) 8. Hidden part of the mind (12) 12. Metal framework or raised platform (8) 15. Pope (7) 16. Container — ship (6) 18. Not so many (5) 19. Stagger — dance (4)

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7 - Rutland Pride APRIL 141_Layout 2 03/03/2014 14:16 Page 163

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