Rutland Pride April 2017

PRIDE

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RUTLAND

PRIDE

RUTLAND

APRIL 2017

Spring has Sprung in Rutland

20 ways to enjoy Multum in Parvo this season

Rutland’s Best Restaurants

Dining Out at The Olive Branch in Clipsham

Celebrity Authors in the Deepings

RUTLAND’S FINEST MAGAZINE

Villages host their inaugural Literary Festival

£4.50

APRIL

2017

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- APRIL 2017 -

welcome letter Julian Wilkinson

Managing Director

Ian Bagley

Production Director

Zoie Wilkinson

Advertising Director

Emily Brown

Sales Director

It’s always a pleasure to write my Editor’s Welcome, as it marks the satisfying conclusion of each month’s magazine.

This month, however, is even more of a pleasure, because it falls to me to thank all of the readers and advertisers who have already noticed and been impressed by our new format.

Whilst we anticipated good feedback, even we were surprised by the number of messages which arrived congratulating us on our magazines’ new look and new feel. Thank you for all of the feedback we’ve already had!

For our next edition, we’re looking to evolve the magazine further with a subtle redesign. With content planned for our summer editions, and being just a couple of months away from our Rutland Show edition, we’re feeling very optimistic and very excited about the next few months!

Our best wishes for a wonderful month,

s i v a D b o R Editorial Director, Pride Magazines

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april CONTENTS 72

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HIGH SOCIETY The Willberry Ball was held in memory of eventing’s Hannah Francis.

FEATURES 21 28 34 36

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NEWS Each month, we bring you a round up of the county’s good news stories.

SPRING This month we’ve a bucket

list of the 20 best things to do in Rutland at this time of year.

LITERARY FESTIVAL The debut of the Deepings Literary Festival happens this month; we have a roundup of events.

KILWORTH THEATRE Watch Kiss Me Kate and Top Hat at Kilworth House Theatre this month.

WHAT’S ON From theatre productions, to live music, theatre to comedy, each month we provide a roundup of the county’s best live events.

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OPERA Nevill Holt’s opera festival has just begun again this spring.

Watch Tosca at the beautiful venue.

HISTORY A battle few Rutlanders know about, we discover what happened to our county during the Wars of the Roses.

FOOD & DRINK 52

FINE DINING We visit one of the

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SAMPLE DISHES We’re beside the seaside in this month’s roundup of best loved fish dishes.

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county’s two Michelin star restaurants this month; the Olive Branch.

WINE Harish Khanderia from Oakham Wines suggests his favourite tipples for spring.

HOMES & GARDENS 64

HOMES Beautiful Old Rectory and holiday cottage designed superbly.

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HOMES Beaulieu House is a beautiful bespoke country home well loved by its previous owners in Horninghold.

FORDS OF OAKHAM Fresh looks for

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spring in designer style.

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HORSE TRIALS This month we find

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AHM INSTALLATIONS Bespoke kitchens and bathrooms designed for independent living.

out what the Rockingham and Belton Horse Trials have in store for us.

NATURE Wildlife in April.

MUTUAL TRUST NFU Mutual in Stamford prove you don’t have to be a farmer to receive the benefits they offer.

FASHION & BEAUTY

102 WEDDINGS Fiona and Chris’s

beautiful wedding was designed to a natural and nature-inspired style.

108 WEDDING DRESSES The latest in 111

bridal fashion from top designers.

FASHION The latest spring collection from Betty Barclay.

125 MOTORS Fiat’s 124 Spider.

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

In print, and to view on your computer, tablet or mobile device from www.pridemagazines.co.uk

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

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

Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

Pride Magazines Ltd., Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston, Lincs PE20 3QF

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Production Director: Ian Bagley.

Advertising Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Director: Emily Brown.

Editorial Director: Rob Davis.

Features Editor: Tilly Wilkinson.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Distribution: Joe Proctor. IT: Ryan Potter.

Office Manager: Sue Bannister.

Customer Account Managers: Lauren Chambers, Nicola Smith.

Sales Manager: Roberta Hall.

Sales Executives: Sian Jarratt, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Aileen Perolio-Jones, Cassy Ayton, Izzy Wilkinson and Tamer Hodgson.

www.pridemagazines.co.uk | enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

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County News Rutland Water shortlisted for Heritage Site of the Year Hopefully, by the time you’re flicking through Pride, Rutland Water should have been named Heritage Site of the Year by the BBC’s Countryfile Magazine...

As Pride goes to press, Rutland Water is likely to have been named Heritage Site of the Year by BBC Countryfile.

Bill Bryson, former head of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, selected the finalists that included Rutland Water, and it’s put to visitors and locals to vote.

“It’s great that Rutland Water is being recognised as a first class visitor attraction, pulling in crowds from across the country, as well as being an integral part of the county and the wider British countryside,” says Will Kirstein, Rutland Water park manager.

Rutland has some tough competition, going up against Stonehenge, Tenby, Durham Cathedral and Skara Brae in the category so it would be a tremendous achievement if we’re able to win.

“To win such a prestigious award would be a fantastic achievement for us all.”

The results are out midMarch which is when this magazine will hit the shops.

Run, Rabbit, Run! Obese Local Rabbits On Diet Regime

Local owner of two rabbits has had her pets mistaken for dogs before, and is looking to get them into better shape.

Sharon Close from Leicester has two rabbits named Zeus weighing in at 1st 4lbs and Nala, weighing 2lbs, overweight for her particular breed.

Sharon found the rabbits in a local park in a terrible condition and freezing temperatures.

She admits she has seemingly overcompensated for their rough start.

The plan is to make slow changes to their lifestyles, with more exercise and good food.

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Stamford Bride Wins Entire Wedding on UKbride.co.uk Stamford’s Jenny Collier and partner Alex Marshall have just won a £25,000 wedding on number one wedding website UKbride...

“The success of the park is a joint effort between Anglian Water staff, our partners, local businesses and the volunteers who work to make Rutland Water special.”

Bride-to-be Jenny Collier received the perfect Valentine’s Day gift this week as she found out she’d won her entire wedding through UKbride.

Number one wedding website UKbride called one of their 650,000 members to announce Jenny and fiancé Alex, who live in Stamford, had won their entire wedding.

“I’m still in complete shock!” said Jenny after the call. “I cannot thank you enough. We’ve been saving up, and we don’t have a very big budget, so this has really lifted an enormous weight off our shoulders.”

Jenny won her honeymoon, wedding dress, photography, videography, wedding cake and loads more. n Visit www.ukbride.co.uk/prizes for more information.

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Send your press releases and county news to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Stamford Young Sports Star Goes Viral After Goal Daniel’s incredible goal-scoring has recently gone viral online, shared by some big names in sport, and turned the game around for the Stamford team...

Stamford AFC’s Under 11s were playing against Glinton and Northborough last month, and were down 2-0.

However, Daniel Byron-Leigh Taylor, a striker for the team, scored an incredible overhead kick which turned the game around and was luckily caught on camera by his dad.

After sharing the video on social media, Daniel’s goal was seen by over 18,000 people in the first 24 hours. n Coun Tony Mathias has recently been elected Rutland County Council leader.

Previous leader Terry King stepped down due to ill health. n Rutland Ospreys team recently were forced to leave The Gambia due to political unrest.

n Boys and girls from five to 11 are currently being sought after for the Braunston May Fayre to dance around the may pole, a really exciting re-introduction of an age old tradition.

n The Friends of Bourne Wood held their first ever Wassailing event last month.

It’s an ancient custom to celebrate the apple harvest and ‘re-awaken trees’ but very new to Bourne.

Grant McCann, Peterborough United Manager, shared the post, and so did Rob Jones former Liverpool player, Jody Craddock, and Tubes from Soccer AM.

Duchess of Rutland Running for the London Marathon in aid of the Belvoir Cricket and Countryside Trust...

The patron of the Belvoir Cricket and Countryside Trust, Emma Manners, Duchess of Rutland, will be running in the London Marathon this month...

After the goal, the team went from 2-0 to an incredible 5-2 victory.

Daniel has been with the club before the age of seven, and is very proud to score such a goal and that it was viewed so many times. n Princess Anne visited Bourne recently for the Sense day service. She has been a supporter of the cause for a long time.

n Bourne schoolgirl Phoebe has decided to cut off all her hair and donated it to a charity that creates wigs for youngsters suffering from cancer and hair loss. n Stamford’s newest fish and chip shop has just opened up its doors to customers. Staff at the Cambridge Road Chippy, previously known as the Britannia Takeaway, are excited to get started on its business venture.

n Stamford can now boast a brand new Joules shop. The brand is relocating from St Mary’s Hill to a better position; 14 High Street.

Duchess of Rutland Emma Manners will be running in the marathon this month for the charity close to her heart.

children, including many who are disadvantaged or have special needs, will come out into our countryside.”

“Running it again is a daunting challenge but I am excited, too because I am passionate about the work of the Belvoir Cricket and Countryside Trust,” says the Duchess.

“It’s a very special project and we are delighted the Duchess has once again stepped up to raise funds and awareness so we can reach out and engage with more children year-on-year,” says Darren Bicknell, the Trust’s chief executive and a former professional cricketer himself.

She will no doubt be well prepared with 15,000 acres of land to train in, and having already ran the marathon back in 2015 for Global Action Nepal.

“We have been going since 2008 and this year around 3,000

“We coach them and give them some wonderful outdoor learning experiences. It is a local cause that I hold very fondly in my heart.”

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County News Severn Trent invest £1.5m in water pipes across Oakham Water pipes across the town are set to be replaced thanks to an enormous grant from Severn Trent...

Oakham will see three kilometres of pipes replaced thanks to the company Severn Trent.

Work has already started from 6th February on Station Road at the Burley Road junction, and is set to be completed later on in the year, providing a very reliable water supply for the town for years to come.

Some people have expressed their concerns about the pipe replacement, with it being such an enormous project shutting off roads for a few weeks, but generally people are happy the new pipes are finally coming to the town. n For more information, please visit the website www.stwater.co.uk.

Chattertons’ Law Firm Annual Charity Quiz Raises £396

A year of fundraising kicked off with a bang in January as local firm, Chattertons Solicitors and Wealth Management, raised £396 for their Charity of the Year.

Following a team vote towards the end of 2016 the firm chose to support The Alzheimer’s Society in 2017.

Their fundraising efforts started with their annual charity quiz

in Grantham, which included a raffle to help raise extra funds.

Teams from across the county attended the event at the Grantham Cricket Club, with South Kesteven District Council taking home the winning title.

Robert Clark, Partner at the Grantham office and quiz master on the night said they were very pleased with the results.

THE BOOK CLUB This month we look at the bestselling contemporary fictions, and some have become TV dramas...

The Gustav Sonata, Rose Tremain, £6.99 Gustav Perle grows up in a small town in Switzerland, where the horrors of WWII seem a distant echo, but his father has mysteriously died, and his adored mother Emilie is strangely cold to him. As time goes on Gustav makes a close friend - Anton - but their lives are already deeply entwined...

Sirens, Joseph Knox, £9.99 Isabelle has run away again.

When Aidan Waits, a junior detective, is summoned to her father’s penthouse, he finds a manipulative man.

He finds Isabelle to be intelligent and scared to death. As he investigates, he realises she was right to run away, but he struggles saving himself.

The Essex Serpent, Sarah Perry, £12 Set in 1893, the novel is about Cora Seaborne, a widow freed from her bad marriage.

Retreating to Essex, she hears the rumours surrounding the Essex Serpent, a creature of folklore killing people. Her investigations bring her to William Ransome, a man she becomes deeply involved with.

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Apple Tree Yard, Louise Doughty Yvonne Carmichael has worked hard to achieve the life she wanted; a high-flying career in genetics, a beautiful home, a good relationship with her husband and two children.

One day she meets a stranger at the Houses of Parliament, and by impulse, begins a passionate affair with him, £6.

The Muse, Jessie Burton, £6.99 In 1967, Odelle Bastien goes to Skelton gallery in London, knowing that her life is about to change forever.

Having struggled to find her place in the city, she had been offered a job. But when a lost masterpiece with a secret history is delivered to the gallery, her life takes a spin...

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James simply listens to you to identify what you want and what matters to you most before advising how to achieve the best result for you and your family.

If facing divorce or separation you will have numerous questions which may have been occupying your mind for many months before you consider which solicitor to choose. Answers to those questions will give you peace of mind.

Your questions may include; will I have to move house? When will I see the children? What will happen to the family business? How much maintenance will I receive or pay?

What will happen to the family pets?

Divorce and separation is a painful process and getting through it as smoothly as possible assists in enabling you to move on.

James will guide you through each step explaining your options giving practical advice and support when you most need it. You may need to go to court but there may be better ways for you including mediation or the collaborative process which are quicker, more cost effective and more dignified than going to court.

James Belderbos, is an expert family law specialist with a track record of helping his clients achieve what they want. If you would like to reduce the stress and achieve peace of mind, find out how James can help you or someone you are supporting by calling 01572 490 660 or email james@bbmlegal.co.uk to arrange a meeting convenient for you.

Divorce and Separation What makes James Belderbos a popular solicitor for those facing divorce or separation?

Bird, Belderbos & Mee offer a fixed fee for an initial meeting.

James looks forward to meeting you James will lift the pressure leaving you and helping you through this process. free to concentrate on whatever matters You, like many before will be glad to you most, whether your children, to have him on your side. career or business. Reducing the stress helps you with the rest of your life.

01572 490 660 | www.bbmlegal.co.uk

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

The Willberry Ball Held in memory of eventing’s Hannah Francis...

Andrew Gregory organised the Willberry Ball at Normanton Park Hotel, on the edge of the reservoir, to remember the life of young eventing star Hannah Francis. The black tie event featured a three course supper as well as an auction and raffle.

Hannah’s charity, Willberry Wonder Pony, aims to funds research into bone cancer and sees Wilberry, the charity’s mascot, being taken all over the world on adventures.

n For more information see www.willberrywonderpony.org.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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Call 01529 469977 and speak to our Events Desk...

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View photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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PROPERTY FINDERS

NOTHING FOR SALE? A professional property finder, Kate Vincent of Garrington explains how homebuyers frustrated by an apparent lack of properties for sale can find a solution in the secretive off-market sector...

Despite the former chancellor’s pessimistic predictions relating to a post Brexit vote, the UK economy and housing market has remained surprisingly robust and whilst it is true that the rise in house prices has steadied, demand from homebuyers locally has continued to grow.

Estate agents covering Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding areas are reporting increasing frustration amongst those looking to move, as the number of quality properties available for sale is just not keeping up with demand.

Reflecting this, Garrington is frequently approached by those struggling to find somewhere to buy – as well as, ironically, those who are reluctant to put their property on the market because they cannot see anything that they would like to buy. So, a state of stalemate in some sectors prevails.

One solution to a frustrating buyers’ market is to tap into the elusive ‘off-market’ buying approach. Some estate agents locally use this approach effectively as a marketing tool; advertising ‘discreet sales’ or ‘private sellers’, as a means of increasing a property’s exclusivity.

For some homeowners, this method provides a welcome veil of privacy as a true off-market property is not something you will see advertised or in print in any form.

So what is a genuine off-market property?

Real off-market properties are bought and sold away from the public eye, brokered by a property buyer or estate agent. In the East

Midlands, the most common off-market properties are at the top end of the market (£1m+) and often include large period properties, building plots and homes in high demand areas, such as the popular Rutland villages and Stamford. Last year, Garrington sourced a number of off-market properties in Wothorpe, a rare canal side property in Leicestershire, a Stamford plot and two farmsteads in Rutland to name just a few.

How do you gain access to these elusive properties?

If you are well connected in the area, are in a strong financial position and patient, it should be possible to hear about homes that may be quietly available for sale. You just need to send out your feelers and keep gently reminding your contacts that you are looking for something unusual.

An alternative and easier approach is to work with a professional property finder who will usually hold a ‘little black book’ of off-market properties, a well-established network of property contacts, as well as, the knowledge of how to approach homeowners direct to gauge whether there is an appetite to sell.

Whilst this method of sourcing property is not guaranteed to bear fruits, Garrington regularly unearths exciting opportunities in this way.

What are the benefits of using an expert property finder?

Whilst sourcing genuine off-market properties for clients is an exciting prospect for many buyers, the role of the property buyer does not stop there (and this is key, even to those who go it alone).

Once found, the most difficult aspects are negotiating the price and then seeing the deal through the subsequent conveyancing and due diligence stages.

Properties that are being sold on the open market have their asking prices tested; if a buyer asks too much, then they get no viewings but if the asking is low then a gaggle of hungry buyers can push the paid price considerably higher.

Away from this market test, establishing a price that is acceptable to an ambitious seller and prudent buyer is more difficult and this is where a skilful property buyer can use evidence, market knowledge and diplomacy to find a meeting point.

Kate Vincent GARRINGTON

If you would like further information regarding off-market properties or to learn how using a property finder can make purchasing a property easier for you, Garrington offer a complimentary initial meeting without obligation. Please contact Kate Vincent to arrange a meeting, e-mail her, or visit the Garrington website for more information

Tel: 01780 408377 | info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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TINWELL ROAD, STAMFORD

£875,000

66 TINWELL ROAD IS A VICTORIAN TOWN HOUSE SET IN AN ELEVATED POSITION ON ONE OF STAMFORD’S PREMIER ROADS, WITH SUPERB VIEWS OVER THE WELLAND VALLEY. THE ACCOMMODATION IS SET OUT OVER FOUR FLOORS, BRIEFLY COMPRISING OF THREE ELEGANT RECEPTION ROOMS, A LIGHT FILLED KITCHEN BREAKFAST ROOM, FOUR SPACIOUS BEDROOMS AND TWO BATHROOMS. 4

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

EPC Rating: D.

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THE OLD NURSERY, PILSGATE, STAMFORD

£975,000

SURROUNDED BY APPROXIMATELY EIGHT ACRES OF PRIVATE GROUNDS IN A SECLUDED LOCATION, THE OLD NURSERY IS A CHARACTER STONE BARN CONVERSION WHICH BENEFITS FROM A VERSATILE MIX OF ENTERTAINING ROOMS, INFORMAL FAMILY SPACE AND BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION SET OVER TWO FLOORS. 3

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EPC Rating: E.

NORTHBOROUGH MANOR, NORTHBOROUGH, PE6 9BJ

£1,500,000

NORTHBOROUGH MANOR IS CONSIDERED ONE OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE'S MOST HISTORIC AND FINEST GRADE I LISTED MANOR HOUSES WITH SIGNIFICANT HISTORICAL CONNECTIONS TO OLIVER CROMWELL AND THE AMERICAN STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA. INCLUDING A FOUR BEDROOM GATEHOUSE AND KEEP, ALONG WITH A DOVECOTE, FORMER PRIVY AND A FORMER STABLE AND EXCEPTIONAL GARDENS. 6

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EPC Rating: Exempt.

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OAK HOUSE, 11 VICARAGE ROAD, OAKHAM

An imposing six bedroom family home offering versatile open plan living spaces, located on one of the most popular roads in Oakham within easy walking distance of town centre and schools.

GUIDE PRICE POA

• Exceptional Build Quality

• Four Bathrooms

• Open Plan Living Kitchen

• Driveway & Extensive Parking

• Three Reception Rooms

• Double Oak Clad Garage

• Study

• Terrace

• Utility

• Wrap Around Lawned Garden

• Six Bedrooms

• EPC – C

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Tinwell, Stamford

A Georgian Gem

Offers in excess of ÂŁ2,000,000

Drawing room | Dining room | Sitting room Breakfast Kitchen | Playroom | Boot room Pantry | Cellar | 6 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms 1 Bed Cottage | Garage | Gardens

Market Harborough 01858 897650 Edward.brassey@struttandparker.com

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ASHWELL Guide Price £2.10million A very fine, substantial Grade II Listed Georgian Country House with 2.2. A gardens and grounds and detached 3-bedroom Bungalow set on the edge of the village. Elegantly proportioned accommodation has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme but retains a wealth of original features. 4 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Cloakroom, Utility, Cellars, 7 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, Playroom, Store Room. Outside: Coach House with Stables, Tack Room, Garaging, Summer House, heated Swimming Pool. EPC Exempt.

WHISSENDINE

£845,000

Stunning individually created home beautifully appointed with bespoke fittings and providing spacious accommodation in a very private sought-after village location. The accommodation in brief: GROUND FLOOR: Entrance Vestibule, Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Lounge, Living/Dining Kitchen, Utility; FIRST FLOOR: 4 dbl Bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, Family Bathroom. OUTSIDE: dbl Garage, ample parking, an enclosed Play/Pet Area and a private south-facing garden to the rear.

Energy Rating: E.

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LANGHAM

£775,000

A beautifully appointed, spacious detached family home occupying a large plot at the end of a cul-de-sac in a popular village. Substantially extended and superbly equipped by the present owners, the property offers contemporary accommodation which has been re-wired and re-plumbed. 4 Reception Rooms, Living Dining Kitchen, Utility, Cloakroom, 5 Dbl Bedrooms, 3 En-suites, Family Bathroom. Energy Rating: D.

LANGHAM

£675,000

An impressive modern detached family home with high specification fixtures and fittings throughout located on the outskirts of the popular Rutland village enjoying pleasant rural views to front. The property provides comfortable and well-proportioned living accommodation. 3 Reception Rooms, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Clkrm/WC, 4 Bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, Family Bathroom; dbl Garage, ample Parking, front & rear Gardens. Energy Rating: C.

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EMPINGHAM

£595,000

A charming stone built detached family home offering well-presented and flexible character accommodation in a sought after Rutland Water village. The accommodation briefly comprises: GROUND FLOOR: Entrance Hall, Breakfast Kitchen, Inner Hall, Dining Room, Sitting Room, Snug, Bedroom 4, Shower Room, Study, Cellar; FIRST FLOOR: 3 Bedrooms, Bathroom. OUTSIDE: detached Garage, good sized Gardens. EPC Exempt.

CALDECOTT Guide Pride £495,000 A fine detached Grade II listed stone property overlooking The Green with its origins believed to be dating back to early 1600's. The property is set on a good-sized plot provides a well laid out, bright and beautifully presented family accommodation alongside a wealth of original features.

2 Reception Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen/Diner, 4 Bedrooms, En suite, Family Bathroom. 2 Garages, large Gardens. EPC Exempt.

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Easton on the Hill – £375,000

Positioned on the edge of this sought after village this detached Grade II Listed cottage is full of the charm & character one would expect from a 18th Century cottage with beamed ceilings, flagstone flooring, open dressed stone work, different levels and twin staircases, all of which are well presented and maintained by the current vendor. There are 3 reception rooms, kitchen with inglenook and wood burning stove, utility and cloakroom. Impressive master bedroom with large 4 piece ensuite, refitted bathroom, separate staircase leading to the guest bedroom with further ensuite. Gas fired central heating, double glazing and off road parking. Manageable gardens to the side and rear with open views to rear.

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WAYS TO ENJOY

SPRING IN RUTLAND

- 20 WAYS TO ENJOY SPRING -

Spring has officially sprung in Rutland and to celebrate, we’ve compiled a ‘bucket list’ of must-see attractions and activities taking place around Rutland. England’s smallest county offers multum in parvo when it comes to providing a whole season of entertainment...

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Enjoy Open Gardens in Hambleton

The Bank Holiday of 1st May provides an opportunity to enjoy not just open gardens, but artisan food stalls and other entertainment in Hambleton. The Village Hall will turn into a cafe for the day, offering bacon rolls, coffee and delicious homemade cakes, plus light lunches homemade soups, filled baguettes supplied with local produce from Otters, Rutland Fine Foods and Rutland Water trout. Admission £4/adult, parking available in the village. From 10am. >>

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TRY JULIAN’S RUTLAND PIPPIN...

Hambleton Bakery’s Julian Carter created The Rutland Pippin, ham hock, sausage meat and apple purée... it’s a delicious spring, available in Exton.

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POLO THRILLS IN RUTLAND...

April will see the beginning of Rutland’s polo season, with The Rutland Polo Club hosting its 2017 opening match on 20th April followed by fixtures throughout May. It’s a thrilling sport, not in the least bit elitist or stuffy! www.rutland poloclub.co.uk

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Absolutely Fabulous Films...

Rutland now has its own cinema within Oakham’s County Museum. Screenings take place on the first Thursday and the third Friday of every month, from 7pm.

Late March sees 2016’s Absolutely Fabulous!

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Revisit an Inspiring Collection of Gardens

Barnsdale Gardens offers the chance to enjoy not just a single large garden, but 38 inspiring ‘mini-gardens’ with different themes, planting schemes and landscaping.

The creation of BBC Gardener’s World’s Geoff Hamilton, in 1983, the site is over five acres in size and hosts regular events and courses.

14th-17th April sees Easter at Barnsdale with egg painting, easter egg hunt and more, plus a Spring Birdwatching event on 23rd April.

01572 813200, www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

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FIRST FOR FOOD

Rutland really is first for food with its two Michelin starred restaurants; enjoy the more formal luxury of Hambleton Hall or the rustic charms of The Olive Branch.

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- 20 WAYS TO ENJOY SPRING -

DISCOVER RUTLAND FROM THE SADDLE OF A BICYCLE...

With 23 miles of traffic-free cycle routes, plenty of spaces to stop for a drink and some pretty views along the way, this is definitely the season to rediscover cycling around the reservoir.

More comfortable than cycling in a stifling hot summer, and definitely preferable to a winter bike ride! >>

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Of course, cycling isn’t the only way to see the reservoir... take a trip on the Rutland Belle, which begins sailing again in late March. A 45 minute round trip will enable you to appreciate the reservoir’s 3,100 acres and 124,000,000,000 litres.

See www.rutlandwatercruises.com.

CURIOUS CREATURES

Discover birds of prey and owls (rutland-falconry.com), with Big Cat open days, too, at the Rutland Wildlife Sanctuary, on 17th April and 29th May.

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Nevill Holt Opera

April sees a preview weekend for VIPs at Nevill Holt, before the company’s opera festival begins its 2017 production of Tosca in June. Based in Market Harborough, we’ve a feature on the company in this edition.

Take a Trip on the Water

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ADMIRE SPRING BULBS AT EASTON WALLED GARDENS...

Enjoy spring bulbs at Easton Walled Gardens with their 450 years of history, and admire 12 acres of beautifully landscaped cottage gardens, borders, orchards and meadows; www.visiteaston.co.uk.

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National Mills Weekend

National Mills Weekend takes place on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May, with a theme of Engineers and Engineering. Visit Whissendine Windmill, Wymondham Windmill or Sacrewell Farm’s beautifully restored watermill near Peterborough and take a step back in time to a golden age for engineering. www.nationalmillsweekend.co.uk.

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COMMUNE WITH NATURE

Rutland Water’s osprey population begins to return from March, and its live camera feeds will be live from 11th March too.

Lyndon Visitor Centre also reopens as Pride goes to press.

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A NEW LOOK FOR OAKHAM CASTLE...

Last year’s renovation of Oakham Castle saw £2.1m invested in both preserving and improving the fabric of, and interpretation at the landmark.

Revisit the castle to see its 240 horseshoes and rediscover its 800 year history.

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Right: One of the 240 horseshoes presented by royals in the new look Oakham Castle.

SHOPPING ON MILL STREET Enjoy a day on Mill Street - visit Cavells for fashions, pop into the quirky Itch gallery and lunch at Otter’s.

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Easter at Peterborough Cathedral

Easter is the perfect time to visit Peterborough Cathedral. BBC Radio Three will broadcast Choral Evensong live on Wednesday 5th April from 3.30pm, and 29th April sees a Drawing Tour for keen artists. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

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- 20 WAYS TO ENJOY SPRING -

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Take a look at Lyddington’s Bede House

2017 marks the 40th anniversary of Rutland Sinfonia, with Saturday 13th May seeing the celebrations continuing at St Peter’s Church, Oundle. Conductor Paul Hilliam (pictured) will direct Sinfonia and Violinist Freya Goldmark, in a celebration of Lehár, Mendelssohn and Mahler, 7.30pm; rutlandsinfonia.org.uk.

Lyddington Bede House reopens on 1st April. This picturesque ironstone property once belonged to the Bishops of Lincoln and was later converted into an almshouse. Now owned by English Heritage, it’s a pretty attraction. www.english-heritage.org.uk.

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Rediscover Normanton Church...

Normanton Church is now a museum dedicated to the creation of the reservoir in place of the lost village of Lower Hambleton. Rediscover Normanton Church on its selected opening days. www.anglianwater.co.uk.

Enjoy a Rutland Symphony

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Have a Blast at Leicester’s National Space Centre...

Leicester’s National Space Centre is about half an hour from Rutland, and well worth the drive. Alongside two real life rockets, the UK’s largest attraction dedicated to space exploration and space science has an amazing building filled with rockets, satellites, Martian surfaces and other genuine space artefacts.

Six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, a unique 3D Simulator experience and the iconic 42m high Rocket Tower. An out of this world experience, especially for those with children or grandchildren!

Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NS, www.spacecentre.co.uk 25

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- DEEPINGS LITERARY FESTIVAL -

DEEPINGS LITERARY

FESTIVAL

This month sees the debut of The Deepings Literary Festival, created by alumni of those who have saved their community library and want to celebrate the building as a community, with music, culture and food too...

Local libraries aren’t just an anachronism, say organisers of the inaugural Deepings Literary Festival.

“In fact,” says Ann Taylor, “this is one of the busiest libraries in Lincolnshire and, since becoming a community library a year ago, it has gone from strength to strength, and lends over 30,000 books each year, to our 2,000 monthly users.”

With the proliferation of, latterly, Kindles, and iPads, but also competition from multi-channel TV, good old fashioned physical books, and libraries as a direct consequence, are struggling to retain support, which is why alumni of Deepings Library - ‘the library that wouldn’t die’ wanted to celebrate its popularity and prove

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Words: Rob Davis.

that there’s still a place for the buildings within even modern communities.

“Stamford has its Georgian Festival and Grantham has its Gravity Fields science festival,” says Ann.

“We thought that the Deepings should be able to host its own festival, so a number of volunteers have joined together to create a programme of events which are centred around the building and aim to highlight what a great resource a library can continue to be.”

Opposite: Making a special guest appearance at The Deepings Literary Festival is Alison Bruce the local crime author of Cambridge Black.

“We began discussions in spring last year and have been working to bring a programme of 13 events, involving internationally renowned authors as well as local writers.”

The programme includes performances of works by local speakers, some set to live music, as well as discussions and events for schools, too.

“The event will be funded and supported by South Kesteven District Council, and we’re hosting it with help and advice from Stamford Arts Centre,” says Ann.

“We have a strong team with a wealth of experience, from District Councillor Judy Stevens, children’s author and illustrator

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- DEEPINGS LITERARY FESTIVAL -

Ellie Sandall whose latest book Everybunny Dance, follows the heels of her previous much loved book Birdsong, which has been read on CBeebies.”

“We’ve book lovers Carol Precey and Helen Morgan, author Rosalind Rendle (now writing the next in the ‘Strong Sisters’ trilogy following the success of Flowers of Flanders), as well as District and County Councillor Phil Dilks.”

“We’ve some great names, a stellar cast of writers of both fiction and non-fiction, storytellers and folk singers, from Louise Doughty whose Apple Tree Yard was recently adapted for TV by the BBC, as well as historian Alison Weir and an entertaining talk by Martin Davies, who is presenting the Bewildering Business of Book Covers.”

“Friday is the big day for our schools, when a host of talented authors visit , including Malorie Blackman OBE, who held the position as Children’s Laureate until 2015.

And of course, authors will include Deepings’ own Ellie Sandall (see above) and Will Hussey, co-author of the 11th book in the Spy Dog series, Storm Chaser.”

“Food will feature large in the festival, with a luncheon hosted by top women’s author Erica James in the delightful Lilli’s Tea room and afternoon tea held at The Bluebell Helpston, where John Clare was potboy to the appropriate accompaniment of poet Stuart Henson and folk duo, the Sheepish Grin, builds on the food and festival links.

The Bluebell's scones are legendary for those of us south of the county.”

“The event will culminate in a black tie gala dinner on Saturday evening when raconteur and wordsmith, Gyles Brandreth will do what he does best: that is, speak!

He’s a regular on Countdown and the One Show, and really needs no introduction.”

“The finalé of the event will be Lincolnshire Letters Aloud, and will be held at Deeping St James Parish Church. Here, to the music of the Intermezzo String Quartet and of course rousing verses of Lincolnshire Poacher, we will revel in all that has come from the Lincolnshire pen, from notables 30

“It will be great to meet and listen to some of our bestselling authors including Alison Weir and Louise Doughty...” such as William Stukely, Newton and from ordinary Lincolnshire folk too.”

Events across the festival will take place at venues such as Coronation Hall, Lilli’s Tearoom and St Guthlac's Church, as well as in the library itself.

Tim Walker who runs Walkers Bookshops in Stamford and Oakham and was recent president of the Booksellers Association of the UK and Ireland will be selling books throughout the festival.

“I am really pleased that we will be supporting the Deepings Literary Festival.

The quality of authors is simply amazing and the team have worked tremendously hard to bring such fabulous talent to the Deepings.”

“It will be great to meet and listen to some of our bestselling authors including Alison Weir and Erica James along with rising stars such as Louise Doughty, who has recently received recognition as the author of the recent stunning BBC1 adaptation Apple Tree Yard.”

With 13 events in total and a diverse programme of both local and internationally renowned authors, the event promises to be a Festival to remember and will certainly put the Deepings on the literary map.

“It is a testament to the strength of passion for libraries and their need for protection which has seen a host of top authors keen and eager to visit and generously support us,” says Ann. n The Deepings Literary Festival takes place from 28th - 30th April 2017, for details of events, see opposite.

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Deepings Literary Festival...

Saturday 29th: Book Covers...

Best selling author of The Conjuror’s Bird which was selected for the Richard & Judy Book Club and sold over 150,000 copies - and the Mrs Hudson series, Martin Davies will talk about book covers old and new.

The author covers his own personal joys and frustrations in discovering how a book gets its cover. Funny, furious and highly visual, this session is a must for anyone who has ever judged a book by its cover. Martin is now based in the Vale of Belvoir, where he hosts residential writing courses. n Held at Coronation Hall, Market Deeping, from 11.30am, £2.50.

Sat 29th: Alison Weir

Alison Weir’s ‘Fotheringhay and the fall of Mary Queen of Scots’ lecture, fronted by the top-selling female historian in the United Kingdom. Alison has sold over 2.7 million books worldwide.

She has published seventeen history books; her latest biography is The Lost Tudor Princess, and her latest novel is Katherine of Aragon: The True Queen, the first in a series of novels about the wives of Henry VIII. Alison has completed over 650 events over the years; these include at Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London and Peterborough Cathedral. Music Rediscover’d will play music that would have been heard in Mary’s Queen chamber.

n St Guthlac’s Church, Church Street, Market Deeping, 4.15pm, £6.

Saturday 29th: Gyles Brandreth

Black Tie Dinner in which Gyles will regale his audience with entertaining anecdotes about his life and his books. Gyles is a writer, prolific broadcaster, former MP and one of Britain’s most sought-after award ceremony hosts and after-dinner speakers. A reporter on The One Show on BBC1 and a regular on Radio 4’s Just a Minute, his many books include The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries and the No 1 best-seller: The Seven Secrets of Happiness.

n Taking place in the main hall of Deepings School, 7.30pm for 8pm, £45/head.

Sunday 30th: Letters Aloud...

Celebrating the written word through letters, cards and articles penned to and from ‘Yellow Bellies’ past and present, some famous, some ordinary leading not so ordinary lives. War, farming, politics, families, adventure, you will be captivated by the written words we have unearthed. Read out by talented Lincolnshire folk accompanied by the magic that is the lively Intermezzo String Quartet. n Deepings St James Priory Church, 7pm, £7.50.

DEEPINGS LITERARY FESTIVAL Friday 28th April: Alison Bruce Popular crime fiction and non-fiction author Alison lives near Cambridge, where she sets her detective novels.

Friday 28th April: Literally Pennyless Popular local folk band.

Friday 28th April: Louise Doughty An afternoon conversation and workshop with the award winning author of eight novels including the recently published Black Water.

Saturday 29th April: Poison, Pottage & Plague Karen Maitland is fascinated by the murder and magic of the Middle Ages - she has written seven thrillers.

Saturday 29th April: The Bewildering Business of Book Covers Martin Davies on book covers old and new.

Saturday 29th April: Lunch with Erica James Author of 20 bestselling novels including ‘The Song of the Skylark.’

Sat 29th April: The Travelling Talesman Family storytelling show by traditional story teller Cliff Eastabrook.

Saturday 29 April: Lynn Knight Telling Social History through Family Stories with the author of Lemon Sherbert and Dolly Blue, an account of the three generations of adoption in her family.

Sunday 30 April: Tour and Tea at John Clare Cottage including a performance by Pennyless.

Sunday 30 April: Stuart Henson and the Sheepish Grin Afternoon tea at The Bluebell at Helpston where poet John Clare was once the pot wash!

Sunday 30 April: Lincolnshire Letters Aloud 7pm Deeping St James Priory Church. www.deepingsliteraryfestival.co.uk

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A Hidden Gem Of A Venue Kilworth House Hotel, just south of the county, has the benefit of its own theatre.

The open air venue is positioned in a beautiful wooded glade on the estate, and has just revealed its calendar of live music and theatre for 2017, including Kiss Me Kate...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- KILWORTH HOUSE THEATRE -

Kilworth House Theatre is dedicated to producing and presenting large scale professional musical theatre and are renowned for their sell out shows. In 2016 they were awarded the highly sought after Five Star Critics Choice Award for not just one, but both of their summer productions.

This year the theatre opens its 10th Anniversary season with the hilarious musical comedy Kiss Me Kate on 31st May, and the uplifting and hilarious romantic comedy celebrating the very best of the 1930s, Top Hat runs from 16th August to 17th September.

Built in a beautiful wooded glade close to the lake in the grounds of Kilworth House Hotel, the theatre has 550 comfortable, padded seats in tiered rows, all of which provide a superb view of the stage.

Magnificent sail-like canopies provide protection for the whole audience and unusually, also the stage area.

There’s a special aura and magic about open-air theatre on a beautiful summer’s evening and no better place to experience that magic than amidst the magnificent surroundings of the Kilworth estate.

To enhance the whole experience, guests have the option of dining pre-show in the beautifully ornate Victorian Orangery of Kilworth House Hotel, or alternatively, you can take a picnic to enjoy in the spectacular

Kilworth’s Calendar Kiss Me Kate: Running until 16th July, this dazzling Broadway classic is a comical story of the joy and madness of working in theatre. Ex-husband and wife find themselves playing opposite each other in the opening of a musical, and the husband’s new love interest is also thrown into the mix.

Top Hat: Award-winning Top Hat brings the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age and the glorious tap-dancing magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to the stage in one of the greatest dance musicals of all time. Based on the 1935 movie of the same name, Top Hat is packed full of Irving Berlin’s greatest hits.

grounds of the estate or just relax pre-show with a drink from the theatre bar.

The ultimate treat is an overnight stay enjoying the luxurious facilities of Kilworth House Hotel in one of their beautifully appointed Garden Rooms or one of the stunning Luxury or Four Poster rooms.

Given such a unique experience, it really is little wonder that this venue attracts over 60,000 people during their summer season. n For more information and to book your tickets, please visit www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk or call them on 01858 881939.

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What’s On...

SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA

Find out What’s On this month with events taking place in different venues across the county. We look at some of the fantastic stage productions, what’s happening in stately homes and tribute acts...

TREMENDOUS TUDOR EXHIBITION

Saturday 21st January - 2nd April The Tremendous Tudors Exhibition is currently being held at Peterborough Museum, this is an opportunity to discover not only a host of stories from Tudor Peterborough but also some unique objects such as the Peterborough Book of Hours.

This is an incredible 500 year old manuscript in immaculate condition which is usually locked away to prevent light damage, so make the most of the exhibition before it ends on 2nd April.

01733 864663, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

ANTON AND ERIN

Thursday 30th March Featuring dazzling choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band performing timeless music including I Got Rhythm, Moondance, Guys & Dolls, Le Jazz Hot and Strike Up The Band, the Swing Time Tour show with Strictly favourite Anton Du Beke and dance partner Erin at De Montfort Hall is sure to dazzle the audience.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Thursday 30th March Madama Butterfly is a beautiful and hugely popular opera with performers and audiences alike, and remains one of Puccini’s most performed works. See the live screening at Key Theatre in Peterborough from the Royal Opera House.

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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Friday 31st March This fizzy and frisky, glittering gem of a show remains the best entertainment in town as Chris Dean and The Syd Lawrence Orchestra deliver another full-throttle performance at Key Theatre in Peterborough.

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

REMEMBERING FRED

- BIG VOICES -

STACEY KENT

Friday 21st April The internationally acclaimed and Grammy nominated vocalist, Stacey Kent, returns to Spalding’s South Holland Centre with a brand new concert, featuring music from her latest album Tenderly.

Thursday 6th April Relive the magic of Fred Astaire with Remembering Fred, a beautiful evening of song and dance, featuring a live band, singers and dancers from Strictly. It celebrates one of the true screen legends of our time. The event is held at the Guildhall Arts Centre in Grantham.

01476 406158, www.guildhallartscentre.com

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

MICHAEL THE LEGACY

Sunday 23rd April An incredible tribute act to Michael Jackson, this is set to be a powerful show at the Stamford Corn Exchange.

01780 766455, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

BILLY OCEAN

Thursday 27th April British soul icon Billy Ocean has added a Leicester date to his UK headline tour Here You Are: The Best Of. With the release of his latest album soaring to number four, Billy celebrated his highest charting album since 1989. The Caribbean Queen star is Britain’s biggest selling black artist of all time, with a string of multiplatinum hits. See him live at De Montfort Hall in Leicester.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

DIRTY DANCING

Monday 10th - 15th April Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensational dancing and seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story in musical form of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring 35 hit songs, including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart stopping (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

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

BEAUTY & THE BEAST

Thursday 20th - 21st April Starring Keith Chegwin as the Jolly King, Basil Brush as the Beast’s sidekick and further celebrity casting yet to be announced and supported by a full cast and live musicians, prepare yourself for an all-singing and dancing, laugh a minute ride through the fun and frolics of panto land.

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

STILTON CHEESE CLASSIC VEHICLES

Sunday 23rd April Uppingham hosts the start of this event from 9.30am where over 350 classic vehicles will 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.

01536 724512, www.stiltoncheeserun.webs.com

INTERNATIONAL CICLE CLASSIC

Sunday 23rd April In addition to classic cars, you’ll see bikes filling the streets around Rutland this Sunday. The 12th Rutland to Melton International CiCLE Classic sees cyclists coming from across the globe to Britain’s biggest and most spectacular single day professional cycle race.

01572 787726, www.cicleclassic.co.uk

- RUTLAND’S INDEPENDENCE DAY -

Between 1974 and 1997, Rutland was absorbed into Leicestershire, until the plucky Raddlemen decided to take their county back, and got it reinstated as a separate county on 1st April 1997.

To celebrate 20 years of Rutland’s independence, Oakham Castle has decided to host a day and night of entertainment.

There will be a film festival which will show old footage and new.

They will be themed around what it is like living in Rutland today and our favourite things about Rutland.

There will also be lots of music and performances on the day.

A beacon will be lit in the evening, along with a tremendous firework display.

Other venues will also be hosting events to celebrate the county’s independence including Victoria Hall on the High Street. They will be displaying a collection of old historical photographs of Rutland.

All Saints Church in Oakham, right next door to the Castle, are holding an evening commemorative carol service. The Grainstore Brewery are even producing a commemorative Anniversary Ale! Come along to the events and celebrate Rutland on 1st April.

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What’s On...

GINO’S ITALIAN ESCAPE

Rockingham Castle

Monday 24th April Fresh from a hugely successful fourth series of Gino’s Italian Escape on ITV, Gino D’Acampo is taking his passion and flair for Italian cookery to live audiences next spring including De Montfort Hall.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

- ROCKINGHAM CASTLE -

On the 16th and the 17th April, Rockingham Castle are hosting a day of family fun. The Castle and gardens throw open the doors and gates on the first Bank Holiday of the year.

If your little treasure hunters are still full of beans, they can help Wentworth find his missing gold and earn a badge as Chief Griffin Assistant.

Seek out the brightly coloured eggs which have been hidden amongst foliage, under bushes, nestled in cracks and behind trees.

The Castle will also be open for you to see the collection of paintings and armour. Built by William the Conqueror 900 years ago, the castle has been the home of the Watson family since 1530. Standing in 18 acres of glorious gardens and boasting a licensed tearoom and Gift Shop, this is a day out for all the family to enjoy.

The season officially begins with the ever-popular children’s Easter hunt in the magnificent gardens featuring the famous Elephant Hedge and Rose Garden.

Each egg has a letter, which makes up an Easter word. Once you have found the word you can claim your chocolate egg.

There is an opportunity for all the family to get involved in the farm animals family quiz too.

Walker’s House, the licensed restaurant, will be open for hot snacks, light lunches and a takeaway service. So if the weather is fair, buy a picnic or pack one for yourselves to enjoy in the gardens.

n For more information call 01536 770240 or visit www.rockinghamcastle.com.

MY COUNTRY

Tuesday 25th - 29th April In the days after the EU referendum, the National Theatre began a nationwide listening project. A team of interviewers spoke to people around the country from Leicester to Londonderry and Merthyr Tydfil to Glasgow to hear their views of the country and town they live in, their lives, their future, and the referendum. Using exact words taken from the interviews, My Country puts those conversations centre stage.

01162 423560, www.curveonline.co.uk

MUSIC, MARTINIS AND MUSES

Tuesday 25th - 29th April Headlined by celebrity DJ, Lauren Pope, the glamorous evening of cocktails, dancing and discounts is being hailed as ‘the event of the year’ at Queensgate. Featuring two stunning cocktail bars complete with model waiters, a VIP area and chill out lounge and gaming zone, Queensgate is going all out.

01733 311666, www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk

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- NEVILL HOLT OPERA -

In Fine Voice

The ruthless passion of Tosca and a vocal performance with unstintingly energetic soprano tones, set against the beautifully landscaped backdrop of one of the area’s most beautiful country estates. Nevill Holt’s operatic festival returns this summer with a compelling mix of art, fine food and breathtaking opera...

Betrayal, anger and passion. The perfect ingredients for a thrilling summer evening, especially in conjunction with a soaring vocal performance of soprano Gisele Allen and the backdrop of Nevill Holt Hall, the country estate of philanthropist David Ross.

This season, the area’s most impressive opera festival returns for its 2017 season with a performance of Tosca crafted by Artistic Director Nicholas Chalmers and created by a team of over 70 cast and crew, each sharing a vision to bring Puccini’s eponymous Tosca to life.

“THIS YEAR, NEVILL HOLT OPERA HOSTS TOSCA AND A SECOND OPERA, NOYE’S FLUDDE, WITH A CAST OF LOCAL YOUNGSTERS...”

Main Image: Dramatic scenes from last year’s Nevill Holt Opera festival performance of Verdi’s Rigoletto.

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“Founded in 2013, the company held its first independent season with a performance of Mozart’s Magic Flute, followed by La Bohème & Turn of the Screw in 2014 and Bizet’s Carmen in 2015,” explains the company’s General Manager, Rosenna East.

Last year saw two productions, Rigoletto and Elixir of Love, both enjoying unprecedented success and the attendance of more than 2,500 visitors.

Performances usually take place in the stableblock, but work is currently taking place to transform the semi-permanent structure within the 400-seater Grade II* listed building into a permanent auditorium to host performances from 2018.

This year, the temporary home of Nevill Holt Opera will see performances of Tosca spanning five dates alongside four performances of a second opera, Noye’s Fludde, with a cast of youngsters.

“It’s our first children’s community opera, and an extension of our remit to bring opera

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- NEVILL HOLT OPERA -

>> to a broader audience, to democratise it and to nurture young talent both in the company itself and in local schools, working in conjunction with our partner, the David Ross Education Trust.”

“Alongside top level professional performers we’ve invited children aged from seven to 16 from the Rutland Music Education Hub and the DRET Academies to take on different roles, from animals and waves to ravens, doves, and to participate as members of the orchestra.”

“We’ve a core audience of attendees from Leicestershire, Rutland & Northamptonshire, and have begun to attract more people from the centre of Leicester too.”

A performance at Nevill Holt begins with a chance to admire the estate’s panoramic views over the Welland Valley, with gates opening two hours before performances.

A real feature of the festival is the estate’s sculpture garden, with work by names like

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The 2017 festival of opera at NEVILL HOLT Tosca: Thursday 15th June 5.30pm; Saturday 17th June 5.30pm; Sunday 18th June 3.30pm; Tuesday 20th June 5.30pm; Thursday 22nd June 5.30pm.

NB: Libretto sung in Italian, with digital subtitles.

Noye’s Fludde: Saturday 1st July, 2pm, 5pm.

Sunday 2nd July, 2pm, 5pm.

Hospitality: Provided by Stones Events during interval; rustic buffet dining; dining in The Festival Restaurant, with private dining in the Font House.

Prices: Sunday £60-£95; Tuesday/Thursday £65-£105; Saturday £70-£115.

Box Office: Call 0115 846 7777 or purchase online at www.nevillholtopera.co.uk. Nevill Holt Hall, Market Harborough LE16 8EG.

Antony Gormley. The constantly evolving sculpture garden is set against a beautifully curated landscape designed by Chelsea Gold Medal winner Rupert Golby.

With intervals of between 60 and 90 minutes, the festival also presents an opportunity to enjoy a picnic in the grounds, or supper in the Festival Restaurant. A rustic buffet dining option will be available this year, and private dining in the Font House is available too, for parties of up to 14.

“This year’s festival promises a sensational performance of one of the most dramatic and beautiful operas by Puccini.” says Rosenna.

“Nicholas and a team of very talented creatives are working behind the scenes to present the performance against a uniquely contemporary setting, which will make it not only one of the most enjoyable performances, but one of the most visually stunning, too.” n

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Artistic Director

NICHOLAS CHALMERS SHARING HIS VISION FOR TOSCA IS NEVILL HOLT’S NICHOLAS CHALMERS Artistic Director Nicholas conducts productions for Northern Ireland Opera, and is Artistic Director at the Second Movement Opera Company.

Nicholas studied music at Oxford University and conducted at the Piacenza Conservatoire.

A former Assistant Organist at Westminster Abbey and Assistant Choir Master for the ENO, Nicholas also created the first Nevill Holt Opera production, The Magic Flute, in June 2013. He returns to create a unique production of Tosca for 2017 with a contemporary mise-en-scène.

Nicholas is working as part of a dedicated team of over 70 cast and creatives. n

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- HISTORY -

THE BATTLE OF

Empingham

The infamous battles between red and white. The Wars of the Roses. The story has been told a thousand times by historians. Battles were fought across Medieval England between the House of Lancaster and the House of York. So many people know it, a pinnacle in our country’s great history, but surprisingly few people have heard of an important battle that took place on Rutland’s soil. The Battle of Losecoat Field in Empingham saw red and white collide spectacularly...

Horses galloping, flags flying, men shouting, and metal clashing. The stories you hear about some of the greatest battles in our country are so bloody and far-fetched, it’s shocking to know they actually happened.

The Wars of the Roses is probably the best example of a battle fought on horseback this country has seen. The name is based on the badges of the two sides; the red Lancastrian rose and the white rose for the Yorkists.

There were 17 battles in total, but one that is often overlooked is the Battle of Losecoat Field in the humble county of Rutland.

It wasn’t one of the largest battles in the Wars, but it saw King Edward IV take on an army twice the size of his own then, 45 minutes later, brush himself off and head to Stamford for the next fight.

Losecoat Field is supposedly called this because the defeated Lancastrians, when fleeing the fight, threw off the distinguishing clothing. However the name probably

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

means pigsty field. Forms of Losecote also appear as field names in other parishes in Rutland. An adjacent woodland is now called Bloody Oaks because of the battle.

It’s a shame the battle is overlooked so often, because its significance and the story behind it is actually very interesting.

It starts with Edward IV. He set out from London, his destination Stamford followed

by Lincoln, to deal with unrest in the east.

There had been riots in Lincolnshire. His journey saw him along the Great North Road.

“THERE WERE 17 BATTLES IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES, BUT ONE THAT IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED IS THE BATTLE OF LOSECOAT FIELD...”

Main Image: The Battle of Bosworth, a stone’s throw from Rutland in Leicester and the end of the Wars of the Roses.

The deaths here were twice the amount than at Losecoat.

However on 12th March 1470, he stopped dead in his tracks. Just past the beautiful hills and valleys of Rutland, the view must’ve stolen his breath, and we’re not referring to the scenery.

An army twice the size of his own was charging at full force towards him. Horses galloped from the left side, men shouted with sword in hand, and Lancastrian flags cast shadows over the green fields.

The first Edward IV knew about the battle was a minute or so before it began.

The reported riots in Lincoln weren’t clear.

Some people had reported it as anti-tax protests and that nobleman Robert Welles was somehow involved, but the reports were not clear enough.

The king had been lured from his comfortably sized army and secure walls in London to remote vulnerable territory on false pretences.

He must’ve felt mightily betrayed especially when catching a glimpse of the livery; that

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- HISTORY -

of his brother the Duke of Clarence, and his cousin, Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, often referred to as the Kingmaker.

This reinforces the fact of what the Battle of Losecoat showed; the flexibility and strength of Edward IV as a commander. Controlling an army when they’ve just seen their lives flash before their eyes is a challenge to say the least. He was good at organising battles and changing plans at the last minute.

The numbers involved in the battle vary depending on who you talk to, but it’s widely acknowledged that King Edward had somewhere between 6,000 and 10,000 men.

His opponent had some 15,000 men.

The armies gathered across the fields of Tickencote Warren. Edward decided to march Lord Richard Welles, the father of Robert Welles, into the open ground between the two armies.

Edward had taken him hostage weeks earlier in an attempt to bring Robert Welles to heel, who was wreaking havoc in Lincoln. Seeing Robert Welles in the army before him, Edward realised that taking his father hostage wasn’t going to be enough. Richard Welles was forced to kneel down in front of Robert and his army while the swish of a longsword neatly liberated Lord Richard Welles’s head from his body.

The battle immediately begun as Richard’s head hit the floor. Cannonballs were fired from Edward’s ranks and his men charged.

Many accounts say that the rebels broke lines as soon as the army began to charge; there may have been 15,000 men but only a small number were soliders.

Whatever the case of the fight, in 45 minutes, it was over. Lancastrians were seen fleeing the field and shedding their livery jackets as they ran supposedly, hence the name Losecoat.

If you were caught wearing the treasonable colours of rebellion, you were guaranteed a short and brutal death.

Above: King Richard III, the last king to die in battle in British history. Main: James Doyle’s Battle of Bosworth. Inset: Richard Caton Woodville’s the Battle of Towton. There are no paintings or any artefacts at all from the Battle of Losecoat.

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BATTLE OF LOSECOAT Armies: The battle of Losecoat in Rutland was between the Royal House of York, and the Rebel House of York.

Commanders: King Edward IV for the royals and Robert Welles for the rebels.

Significance: It was the first battle, and the first indication that Edward IV’s own family had betrayed him. It also showed how talented Edward was at controlling an army.

Robert and his commander of foot were captured and executed a week later. The deaths on the field of Losecoat was somewhere between 500 to 600.

At some stage during 1470 either before the battle or after it, Edward IV visited Oakham Castle and donated a horseshoe. He started the tradition, the very first nobleman to donate a horseshoe, and the tradition continues today.

The main importance of the battle was it showed the start of the Earl of Warwick’s rebellion. The reason for it being overlooked is how long it lasted, and the fact that it didn’t really change anything in the Wars of the Roses. It wasn’t a very significant fight, more of an ambush deflected brilliantly.

Edward did not face any further rebellions after his restoration, as the Lancastrian line had virtually been extinguished, and the only rival left was Henry Tudor who was living in exile.

It is not known what actually caused Edward’s death. Pneumonia and typhoid have both been conjectured, as well as poison. Some attributed his death to an unhealthy lifestyle, as he had become stout and inactive in the years before his death.

He was succeeded by his son Edward V and then by his brother Richard. It was Richard who was defeated in the notorious Battle of Bosworth, just a stone’s throw from Rutland near Leicester, a battle that ended the Wars of the Roses and saw the Tudor era begin. n

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The Rise of the Tudors THE BATTLE OF BOSWORTH

The Tudor Era is what eventually emerged as a consequence of the Wars of the Roses.

When Edward IV died in 1483, his wife, Elizabeth Woodville the White Queen - was left a widow.

His brother Richard then usurped the throne from his nephew Edward V, making himself Richard III. Henry was now the Lancastrian claimant to the English crown, and saw his support grow.

He said to his supporters that if he became king he would marry Edward IV’s daughter, Elizabeth of York, and unite the houses of York and Lancaster.

In 1485, Henry marched from Wales to England to meet Richard’s forces at the Battle of Bosworth in our neighbouring county Leicestershire. In the battle Richard III was killed and Henry was crowned King Henry VII at the top of Crown Hill.

After becoming King he married Elizabeth of York thus uniting the House of Lancaster and the House of York.

He adopted the Tudor rose as the emblem of the country, combining the white rose of York with the red rose of Lancaster to symbolise an end to the dynastic war. n For more information about the Wars of the Roses or the Battle of Bosworth, visit www.bosworthbattle field.org.uk, the Heritage Centre for the battle.

Right: The Tudor Rose symbolised the end of the war and the start of the Tudor rule.

Left: The Battle of Barnet, another significant battle in the Wars of the Roses.

It secured the thrown for Edward IV.

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SEASON A FRESH NEW Words: Rob Davis. Images: Clive Doyle.

IT’S ONE OF THE BEST KNOWN, BEST LOVED RESTAURANTS IN RUTLAND, OFFERING THE STANDARD OF FOOD THAT RUTLANDERS EXPECT, BUT IN A RELAXED ENVIRONMENT. WITH NEW SPRING MENUS THIS MONTH, SEAN HOPE AND BEN JONES’S OLIVE BRANCH REMAINS UNMATCHED...

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- EATING OUT -

a masterclass in CHEFCRAFT Sometime anonymity is underrated. Watch TV these days and there are scores of youngsters trying to be famous, and a new breed of celebrity famous just for... well, being famous. Fame is something I’ve never craved, which is one of the reasons (beyond the unpalatable nature of my boat race) I’ve opted for a career in the delicious anonymity of print, rather than in the showy glitz of broadcasting, and even now I even resent the presence of my byline picture each month on our page three welcome letter.

Sometimes though, you’ve got to accept that even if you don’t want fame, fame will seek you out regardless. And so it is with The Olive Branch. At least in the county, Sean Hope and Ben Jones are ‘famous.’

Over the past 15 years, the restauranteurs both of whom began their careers at the other of Rutland’s two Michelin-lauded

“BOTH SEAN AND BEN ARE IN THE BUSINESS SIMPLY TO INDULGE AND PASS ON THEIR LOVE OF FOOD...”

SEAN HOPE’S SPRING MASTERCLASSES AND DEMONSTRATIONS

Cookery Demonstrations: 9th and 16th May 11th and 18th July £55/person, with coffee from 10am, demonstrations at 10.30am, followed by a three course lunch at 12.30pm.

restaurant, Hambleton Hall - have cemented the pub restaurant’s position not only as one of our best quality restaurants, but one of our most relaxed, too.

And yet, despite an appearance in the red guide each year since 2002 and its Pub of the Year title for Leicestershire and Rutland for at least 12 years, both Sean and Ben remain in the business not for fame, not for fortune, not for time off, but simply to indulge and pass on their love of food.

Determinedly casual, the place remains one of stripped pine tables, stripped floorboards and a pretty, shaggy garden. From the minute you enter the place it’s all about relaxed pleasure.

Kitchen Masterclass: Tuesday mornings, from 8am, including light lunch, recipe sheets and ingredients.

Topics include butchery, fish and knife skills. £150; call for dates.

Wine Masterclass: 27th May; Loire Valley.

29th July; Pinot Noir tasting.

Call 01780 410355 for details.

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>> Dining takes place at lunchtime from Monday to Sunday, with nine starters, and nine main courses, plus an array of side orders.

Even if you’re stopping by just for a drink, there’s an array of nibbles to choose from, with local Grasmere Grunta and Rutland Charcuterie.

Dinner is served in much the same fashion but with dishes that take a little more time and effort to craft, and there’s a tasting menu too, a ‘gourmet’ set menu with five courses and a choice of up to three dishes per course.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Lunch Monday to Saturday noon to 2pm.

Dinner Monday to Friday, 6.30pm to 9pm.

Saturday 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Sunday Lunch from noon to 3pm.

Dinner from 7pm to 9pm.

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- EATING OUT -

on the MENU SPRING/SUMMER MENU AT THE OLIVE BRANCH

Starters

Pea and goats curd risotto, tempura pea shoots, £7.25.

Roast breast of pigeon and confit leg pastilla, couscous, cauliflower, £7.95.

Queen scallops, cucumber, finger lime, £7.95.

Main Courses

Char grilled pavé of beef, grilled baby leeks, Scottish girolles, summer truffle potato, £16.95.

A pudding menu is as comprehensive as any I’ve seen lately, with eight desserts, plus a home made ice cream option, a home made sorbet option, and four ‘mini dessert’ options for those who ‘really want to,’ but ‘don’t think they can manage one...’

No fewer than three cheese options, home made petit fours and 13 different pudding wines (beers, ports...) means you’ll be spoilt for choice, but probably exhausted by the end of your meal.

Not content with simply using local ingredients, from Grasmere Farm to Stilton Butchers, Sean last year began to curate his own kitchen garden adjacent to Beech House, a Georgian gaff across the road now home to the pub’s six pretty letting rooms.

The restaurant also has its own rare breed hens and ducks, it butchers its own beasts and makes everything in house from bread to chutneys, to oils, soups and mayo.

Many of these products and a very good selection of wine can also be found in the restaurant’s Pub Shop, too.

Presentation of Sean’s dishes is flawless, flavours are never neglected in favour of frippery, and as you’d expect, service is attentive without being overbearing.

True ambassadors for food, Sean and his team even host masterclasses for keen amateur cooks, plus cooking demonstrations and wine tasting evenings all through the year.

This month it’s likely to be warmer, brighter and generally better. Hopefully, you’ll open the curtains on a Sunday morning and you’ll be met with the unexpected gift of a bright, sunny spring day. On just those sort of solid gold, eleven out of ten mornings, you’ll have a ‘let’s do something,’ pang, but perhaps not a fully formed idea of where to go and what to do. Do the Olive Branch. Do the Olive Branch and do their Sunday lunch - there is, of course, a dedicated menu.

Take a copy of the Sunday papers, take your time and take the opportunity to remind yourself that it’s one of the most wonderful dining experiences; so close, and still so great. n

Grilled Grasmere pork cutlet, black pudding baked apple, broccoli & pinenut, £16.95.

Whole baked lemon sole, pea and broad bean vinaigrette, baked heritage potatoes, £26.50.

Desserts

Summer berry Eton mess, basil sorbet, £6.95.

Elderflower panna cotta, pink peppercorn meringue, strawberries, £6.95

Cheese

Eccles cake, Earl Grey tea cream, crumbled Cropwell Bishop Stilton £6.95.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n The Olive Branch Main Street, Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410355 or see www.theolivebranchpub.com.

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Beside the Seaside...

THIS MONTH WE HAVE A ROUNDUP OF THE BEST FISH DISHES WE’VE BEEN SERVED IN SOME OF THE COUNTY’S BEST RESTAURANTS AS WE STEP INTO THE FRESHNESS OF SPRING...

MARQUE OF QUALITY

The Marquess of Exeter in Lyddington serve salt and chilli squid for just £8.50. Their menu changes regularly, but they continue to provide high quality fish dishes.

01572 822477, www.marquessexeter.co.uk.

n The Lord Nelson has a lighter option instead of its delicious juicy burgers and homemade pizzas.

The Asian style roast salmon with sesame and wasabi mash provides

the same satisfaction for a lot less calories if you’re eating healthy, and even if you’re not, this fish dish is one to try on your next visit to Oakham.

n HAMBLETON HALL serves a unique dish; fresh Cornish crab, celery ice cream and virgin bloody mary.

01572 868340, www.knead.pubs.co.uk.

n The Crown Hotel in Stamford served crab and chilli croquettes with lemon aïoli and dressed leaves.

01780 763136, www.knead pubs.co.uk.

01572 756991, www.hambletonhall.com.

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- SAMPLE DISHES -

presented beautifully

The Three Swans in Market Harborough is part of the Coaching Inn Hotel Group. The menu features a number of delicious fish dishes, in line with the hotel group’s reputation.

01858 466644, www.threeswans.co.uk.

A SMOKED STARTER

A visit to the Woodhouse Arms saw us enjoy a course of smoked salmon and prawn parfait.

Fish features in many dishes at the Woodhouse Arms.

01476 552452, www.thewoodhousearms.co.uk.

Kilworth House is very well known for its fine dining facilities, thanks to head chef Max Faulkner.

He served us pan fried scallops in nori hollandaise on our last visit, but his menu is seasonal.

01858 880058, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk. n Featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change frequently so dishes are subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for an up-to-date menu.

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- EATING IN -

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Rutland Water Trout WITH MANTON ASPARAGUS, PEAS & CAVIAR Prep time: 30 mins.

INGREDIENTS Sea Trout 4 Rutland Water sea trout, each weighing 100g 1 knob of butter 30g of Ebène caviar 1/2 lemon salt and olive oil

Garnish 1 turnip, thinly sliced 100ml of fish stock 1 baby gem lettuce 50g of frozen peas, defrosted 8 Manton asparagus spears 100g of butter, diced 10g of dill, chopped 10g of chives, chopped 10g of tarragon, chopped salt and sugar to season

Serves Four.

Caviar adds a princely finish to this otherwise humble recipe, designed to utilise trout from the reservoir and local asparagus 1. Add a generous amount of olive oil to the base of a large frying pan. Place over a medium-high heat and once the pan is hot, slowly lower each fillet into the oil. Allow to cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown

slices and lettuce. Allow to warm through and then let it cook do not allow it to soften. Add the peas and the asparagus and toss to coat in the hot stock

3. Meanwhile, heat the stock in a frying pan and add the turnip

n Recipe from Matthew Tomkinson, www.greatbritishchefs.com.

2. Turn the fish over and add a small knob of butter to the pan, use to baste the trout as it cooks and cook for a further two minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to rest for two minutes

4. Add the diced butter and toss to emulsify and make a rich buttery sauce to coat. Remove from the heat, add in the herbs and season with salt.

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The gin from the home of great whisky...

Wine of the Month Ascheri Pisapola Barolo, Italy, £29.99 / 75cl, Grape Variety: 100% Nebbiolo 14% ABV

Botanist, the artisan gin with 22 botanicals

A recommendation for all gin drinkers, The Botanist is an artisanal Islay gin from the isles of Scotland, usually associated with peat-ey whiskies. It uses 22 local botanicals, hand-picked by expert foraging team. Rich and mellow with coriander and aniseed. £38.49/70cl, 46% ABV.

“If you’re hedging your bets as to what the weather will do this month, this high-end Barolo will suit spring roast dinners and game too.”

The Wine Cellar THIS MONTH OUR WINE WRITER HARISH KHANDERIA PRESENTS HIS APRIL FOOLS: A GIN FROM THE HOME OF ISLAY WHISKY, AND AN ENGLISH WHISKY THAT’S ACTUALLY A SHERRY...!

RIOJA AND ROLL: A TEMPTING TRIO OF WINES USING THIS FRUITY FAVOURITE 1. The first of two Riojas from Bodegas Valdemar Reserva.

Complex aromas with subtle spicy notes and ripe black fruit touches. Potent and fleshy, taste of ripe fruits and oak. £17.99 / 70cl / 13.5% ABV. 2. A successful white Rioja from Bodegas Valdemar - Finca Alto Canpabria which blends modern fruit and traditional oak ageing: lemony, smoke and vanilla scented, with subtle aromas of peaches and apricot. £15.99 / 70cl / 13.5% ABV. 3. A fresh, neatly proportioned Ribera del Duero, with bright black cherry, violet and vanilla aromas. A delicious juiciness in the mouth gives way to a poised, appetising finish. £14.49 / 70cl / 13.5% ABV.

Brilliant intense garnet colour.

The wine displays the characteristic, ethereal and intense bouquet with notes reminiscent of violets and ripe fruit.

Full-bodied, soft, velvety, persistent palate, austere but harmonious and pleasant. n

A Uniquely British Liqueur Pedro Ximenez Spirit

When is a whisky not a whisky?

The English Whisky Co matures some fine single malt whiskies in Pedro Ximenez Sherry Casks, but this spirit defies description either as a sherry, or a whisky.

These casks are full of beautiful rich dark flavour and the resulting drink is a wonderful fortified wine, that makes a superb drink for many occasions. It’s also glorious poured over ice cream. £24.95 / 70cl, 20% ABV.

n Our featured wines are available from Oakham Wines, High Street, Oakham LE15 6AH. Call 01572 757124 or visit www.oakhamwines.co.uk.

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A Rutland - RUTLAND HOMES -

RETREAT Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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The Old Rectory in Tinwell is a country escape in a number of ways. After a day spent working in the capital, William de Gale can return to his beautiful Georgian home, but so can couples wanting to enjoy the luxury interiors of the Old Rectory’s holiday cottage...

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THE OLD RECTORY,

TINWELL Above: The Old Rectory also comes with the Rectory Cottage, a stunning holiday cottage featured on a luxury holiday cottage website.

The standard of interiors across the county is impressive. With influences like Hambleton Hall and Barnsdale Lodge, and stylists like Nigel Rhodes Fine Art and Furleys right on your doorstep, it’s very easy to create a dream home.

But the standard of The Old Rectory in Tinwell is impeccable. Owners Sasha and William de Gale have paid attention to every little detail in their property and in their detached holiday cottage.

The couple have lived in the village for the past 15 years with their daughter. Having family in the county, horses to look after and a daily commute to London, Rutland was ideal, not far from a central train station and plenty of land for their equestrian interests.

“When we came to the property, the structure was there, but the design was missing,” says William. “We redecorated the entire property.

The only exterior work was to remove some of the enormous trees along the main road entrance which opened our view onto the main street.”

Location: Two miles from Stamford, nine miles from Oakham.

Style: An impeccably designed Georgian manor house with a holiday cottage.

Bedrooms: Seven, one currently used as a study and one as a nursery, some with en suites.

Receptions: Four arranged as drawing room, sitting room, dining room and playroom.

Other Features: A holiday cottage, garage and just under 1.5 acres.

Price: £2,200,000.

“We believe it had always been a rectory up until the 50s. The newest parts were built in 1840, and the oldest parts we believe date back to the 16th century.”

The house has been constructed entirely of Ketton stone. The entrance is via a large impressive door that leads to a grand hall featuring a staircase and grand piano. A lightwell at the top of the hall floods three stories with light. On the ground floor, there are three doorways. The first is to the sitting 65

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room, featuring a small fireplace. It’s a cosy room, which William believes to have been the rector’s office.

“There are double doors from the grand drawing room to the smaller sitting room, so if the rector’s wife was having a tea party in the drawing room, he could discuss matters of business in the sitting room.”

The drawing room has grand Georgian windows, a high ceiling and large fireplace.

Across the hall, there is the dining room, which is the older part of the home. The ceilings are lower and in here, the windows are floor-to-ceiling, but in the same style.

“The house was asymmetrical, but the additions to the property in the 19th century made it appear symmetrical.”

Double doors open from the dining room to the kitchen. The couple decided to remove 66

the Aga that was in the kitchen and replace it with a more modern more efficient Everhot oven. It slashed the price to heat the house, and now the kitchen is fitted with completely modern appliances.

On the first floor, there is the master bedroom with large Georgian windows featuring window seats, and the main bathroom.

There is a second bedroom but the couple currently use this as their study. A third bedroom, that’s cool in the summer, was used as their daughter’s nursery.

There are two further rooms, and a four poster bedroom with en suites. There is even a ‘bunk room’ featuring beds like ship cabins, with built in lights and bookcases.

The final floor features their daughter’s beautiful four poster bedroom with pitched roof, and oak beams.

“We bought the cottage in 2013 and converted it into a holiday home. My wife is an avid interior designer, and it’s now featured on Unique Home Stays, a website that hand selects only the finest luxury holiday cottages.

The income we receive from the cottage practically covers the cost of the house.”

The couple have two cottages they’re just finishing to decorate in the same Georgian style in Tinwell, but Sasha’s desire for designing craves something contemporary.

William and Sasha will be building a barn in a completely different style, more suited to their way of living. We wish them the very best of luck in their new venture, and if it’s designed to half the standard of the Old Rectory, it’ll be stunning.

Above: The kitchen is fitted with modern appliances and an Everhot oven.

Right: The drawing room features Georgian windows and a beautiful fireplace.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

“MY WIFE IS AN AVID INTERIOR DESIGNER, AND OUR HOLIDAY COTTAGE NOW FEATURES ON UNIQUE HOME STAYS, A WEBSITE THAT HAND SELECTS ONLY THE FINEST HOLIDAY COTTAGES...”

Left: The cottage is impeccably designed to Sasha’s high standards.

Below: Two of the main bedrooms, with large Georgian windows.

Above: The dining area in the holiday cottage features floor-to-ceiling windows that open up.

n The Old Rectory in Tinwell is currently on the market with Strutt & Parker Estate Agents. Call them for more details on 01780 408567 or see their website www.struttandparker.com.

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Something

BLUE - RUTLAND HOMES -

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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Beaulieu House in Horninghold is a beautiful country home with far reaching views and a stunning garden. The Chinnerys have loved living there for the past 20 years, and have added a lot to it in the time they have lived there...

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BEAULIEU HOUSE,

HORNINGHOLD

Above: The parterre is arranged as a knot garden at the front of the property. The owners are keen gardeners.

The Chinnery family from Leicestershire were looking for an original property they could design to their own specifications and found the perfect place in Beaulieu House.

years,” says Peter Chinnery, owner of Beaulieu House. “The reception rooms receive the sun all day. It’s a bright house.”

They immediately saw the potential, and began renovating in 1996, joining the two buildings together to form one. Original features of the property such as exposed beams and original door widths have been retained where possible.

As you enter through the front door, french doors opposite offer a view of the garden..

Off the main hall are two studies.

It was originally two farm buildings which were part of Belchers Hill Farm and originally housed pigs and race horses.

“We have lived at Beaulieu house for 20 years and undertaken major refurbishment of the bathrooms, kitchen, utility and the addition of a sunroom in the last eight

“The house has four double bedrooms with two en suites and a family bathroom. There is the possibility to use one reception room as a fifth bedroom if required.”

Location: Ten miles to Oakham, five miles to Uppingham.

Style: A beautifully bespoke country home with extensive country views and landscaped gardens.

Bedrooms: Four double bedrooms and three luxury bathrooms.

Receptions: Four arranged as dining room, kitchen/breakfast living room and sun room.

Other Features: Landscaped gardens, extensive view, bespoke cabinetry throughout and plenty of storage facilities inside and out.

Price: £995,000.

The main family bathroom is split level with Porcelanosa and Fired Earth tiling, walk in shower and large Duravit bath.

Opposite is the second bedroom with built in wardrobes and french doors opening onto a patio with east facing views across the garden and countryside.

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Continue along the hall to the stairs on the right up to the master suite. This spacious bedroom has air conditioning, views over the garden and benefits a walk-in wardrobe and generous en suite with high end fittings and large storage cupboard.

The third bedroom benefits from having fitted double wardrobes and french doors onto a patio again, with east facing views.

The fourth bedroom is situated at the end of the hall.

Turning right from the main entrance, there is a lounge with large brick inglenook style fireplace with open fire and french doors opening on to the main garden.

This leads into a dining room with wooden flooring and small log burner. Following into the kitchen and sunroom, the Shortland designed kitchen and utility are fully 74

integrated with Miele appliances including steam oven, coffee machine, microwave, weighing scales and Gaggenau fridge.

There is a blue four oven electric aga housed within an impressive circular surround and substantial island unit topped with 60mm deep Labrador Antique granite, as are all the working surfaces.

A vegetable sink with Insinkerator sits in the island unit. The cloakroom leads through from the utility with Villeroy and Boch wall hung toilet and rose marble countertops.

“We are keen gardeners and the landscaped gardens which surround the house provide interest all year round,” says Peter. “Particular areas of interest are the box parterre in the drive, ericaceous bed at the end of the drive and wildlife pond and water feature visible from the sunroom and lounge.”

“The birds particularly enjoy having a bath in this! There is a patio area adjacent to the pond for sitting and relaxing. The garden also benefits mature borders, flower beds, fruit trees, vegetable and soft fruit garden.”

The garden also has a greenhouse, two sheds, and a triple garage which has double doors, with the third bay being used for storage.

“The kitchen and sunroom are great for entertaining and there are numerous patio areas to enjoy the amazing views in this private, peaceful garden. During the winter the roaring lounge fire is very warm and cosy. It’s just been our ideal place to live.”

Above: The kitchen with bespoke cabinetry and island in light blue, and dark blue Aga oven.

Right: The Chinnerys were responsible for the gorgeous conservatory looking across their gardens.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

“WE HAVE FOUND THAT THE KITCHEN AND SUNROOM ARE GREAT AREAS FOR ENTERTAINING AND THERE ARE NUMEROUS PATIOS TO ENJOY THE AMAZING VIEWS IN THIS PRIVATE PEACEFUL GARDEN...”

Left: The beautiful main bedroom looks onto the landscaped gardens.

Below: The lounge and inglenook fireplace and dining room.

Above: The bespoke bathroom was tiled by Porcelanosa and Fired Earth.

n Beaulieu House is currently on the market with James Sellicks. Call for details about Rutland properties on 01572 724437 or see their website www.jamessellicks.com.

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Extensive Range of Modern & Traditional Stoves... n Live stoves on display n New showroom just outside Stamford n Expert advice and in-house fitting team Unit 18a I Station Road Business Park Barnack I Stamford I Lincolnshire PE9 3DW

01780 769274 |

Mon– Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 10am–4pm

www.stamfordstoves.co.uk | info@stamfordstoves.co.uk

The Best of British There’s always new inspiration at Elizabeth and Stevens, perfect ideas for gifting, home and gardens...! Well worth a visit E+S xxx and online too x ELIZABETH & STEVENS The Showrooms, Great North Road, Markham Moor, Notts DN22 0QU

Tel: 01636 822000 | www.elizabethandstevens.com

Open daily Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm. Just off the A1.

Free parking. Please call us if you are making a special journey.

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Masai One of the most desirable brands in women’s fashion, available exclusively at Fords of Oakham.

Shown here are Denis top, Padme trousers, Asquare scarf and Gensa tunic all by Masai.

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- FORDS OF OAKHAM -

1.

3.

2.

Designer Style FRESH LOOKS FOR SPRING

4.

1. Rutland Bag canvas bag celebrating rural Rutland, exclusively stocked by Fords of Oakham £9.50.

2. Orla Kiely chartreuse watering can £39.99.

3. La Cafetiere bean grinder, copper finish £23, and cafetiere £30. Four copper teaspoons £12.

4. Sophie le Giraffe teether set £13.99; first words book £4.99; Sophie toy £14.99.

5. Orla Kiely chilli pot 19.99.

6. Orla Kiely pots £45; potting gloves £18.

7. Mini Moderns kettle and storage pot £call.

8. Shruti Maddox limed wood and pewter bowl £45 and glass candle holder £45.

9. Beatrix Potter nursery crockery £32; Peter Rabbit plush £19.95 10. Tractor Ted children’s wellingtons £16 and water bottle £4.99

5.

7.

6.

Items from Fords Of Oakham, Church St, Oakham LE15 6AA. For details call 01572 722654 or see www.fordsofoakham.co.uk.

8.

9.

10.

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Winter NEFF Sale All appliances available at competitive prices, 63 appliances on show

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens

• 25 NEW large room settings in our showroom

• Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display The best quality, best value & best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

Bespoke Handmade Kitchens by Charles Yorke

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer.

THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA

T: 01780 756514 or 755855

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

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Creating Room for Independence If you’ve an elderly or less able relative, ensure they can remain in their own home whilst providing extra peace of mind and safety, and improving the look of their home. Newark-based AHM can help to achieve all this and more...

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Joni Cooper.

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- HOMES -

Independence is an important element of security and happiness in later years. If you or a relative are less mobile or visually impaired in later life, being able to remain in your home will mean the world.

That’s why AHM Installations, based in Newark, work across Rutland and all over the UK to create rooms for those with mobility problems, visual impairment, or those seeking the security and peace of mind of a safer bathroom or kitchen.

“We’re a family firm, founded over 25 years ago by Simon and Julie Symcok, with the couple’s son Charlie also helping us to run the business,” says Joni Cooper.

“We found a niche in creating bathrooms and kitchens that blend good looks and modern features with the ability to provide relatives with peace of mind, utilising features that make our rooms easier to use.”

“Ostensibly, this means creating rooms to cook, clean, bathe and relax in, but really, what we’re doing, is making our clients’ homes safer.”

The firm is based in Oldrids’s Lincoln based Tritton Road store, and have a head office in Newark. Really, though, the team work in the field visiting clients and their relatives to advise on home improvements.

“We think it’s really important to be trustworthy when working with an older customer base,” says Joni.

“That’s why we have a strict no-pressure selling policy, provide free, no obligation quotations, use our own in-house fitters and project manage each job from start to finish, and why we offer a 12 month warranty on all of our installations.”

“We also provide living aids from walking frames to scooters, and from rise and recline chairs to smaller accessories for making everyday tasks easier.”

From wheelchair-friendly kitchens to those with low or rise-and-fall work surfaces and many other features, the firm can help to ensure that their customers can retain their independence for longer, remaining safer in their own homes.

n Find out more about AHM Installations’s bespoke kitchens and bathrooms for independent living, by calling 01522 500288 or 01636 821443 or see www.ahminstallations.co.uk. Visit the company’s showroom at Oldrids and Downtown, Tritton Road, Lincoln LN6 7TN.

The firm’s bathrooms and wetrooms are all bespoke designs, incorporating easy-access shower and bath cubicles, grab handles and safe, non-slip surfaces.

“We pride ourselves not just in the technical and safety features of our rooms, but also their modern appearance and functionality too. Ours is a really specialist task - to create a room that provides independence, peace of mind and helps to improve your home too.”

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Barratt

& Swann CRAFTING INTERIORS FOR OVER 60 YEARS Martin Barratt & Tim Swann

0115 9332 642 www.barrattandswann.co.uk

KITCHENS - BEDROOMS - STUDIES - STAIRCASES - FURNITURE

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- SPRING GARDENING -

QUALITY AN INVESTMENT IN You’ll be visiting the shed this season for the first mow of spring... but if your faithful old workhorse has seen better days, consider the latest garden technology from Peterborough Grass Machinery will help you tame your terrain; just ask expert Chris Brown!

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From John Deere to Stihl, to Viking and Atco, if your garden machinery has seen better days, it’s time to tame your terrain and get your garden graceful again with Peterborough Grass Machinery. Chris Brown’s Ivatt Way showroom has over 100 walk-behind mowers and 30 ride-on mowers in stock, and many more available to order.

In addition to the best brands, the team have all the expertise you need, and if you’ve an existing machine, or once you’ve made an investment in quality machinery, they’ll help you to service and maintain too.

We asked Chris to recommend the latest labour savers, designed to ensure you spend more time enjoying your garden, and less time working in it this season! >>

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FIVE OF THE BEST: WE’VE ASKED CHRIS TO RECOMMEND THE BEST MACHINERY FOR LARGE LAWNS, SMALL GARDENS, COUNTRY ESTATES AND UNWIELDY WOODLAND...

1. A helping hand with your spring cleanup...

2. Hassle free mowing and cordless convenience...

“If you’ve spent the whole of autumn and winter clearing leaves from your garden and your paths, resolve to enjoy a helping hand this season with a Billy Goat.”

A super sucker for your lawn, paths, gravelled areas and borders, the machines have optional wander hoses and mulch garden debris, great for your compost heap.

“Viking is one of our most reliable and trusted brands,” says Chris. “It’s the sister brand of Stihl, aimed at the consumer, rather than groundskeeping professionals.”

This cordless walk-behind mower enables you to tackle smaller lawns or inaccessible areas without the hassle, fumes and maintenance traditionally associated petrol mowers. It utilises a removable battery so you can keep and charge several ones in rotation. The model also has a 40 litre grass collection system and six height settings with adjustable cutting height from 20mm to 70mm.

Billy Goat KV, 190cc Briggs engine, with optional wander hose £929.

Shown here is Viking MA339C, £290.

3. An investment in quality with Stihl’s cordless range...

“The idea behind Stihl’s new range of Compact Cordless products is simple. Purchase a battery system for just £199 then you can power Stihl and Viking cordless products, from lawnmowers to strimmers, chainsaws to hedge trimmers, pole pruners to leaf blowers. No engines, no hassle, just click and go convenience.”

MSA chainsaw £220, HSA36 hedge trimmer 179, FSA56 strimmer £179.

4. Robotic Lawnmowing

“For small to medium sized where you’re happy to mulch clippings back into your lawn, and if you’ve a fairly uniform shape to your garden, robotic mowing can take the hassle out of keeping your lawn trim.” iMow is best suited to lawns from 3300m2 to 2,000m2, and mows for 90 minutes before returning to its charging base. It works its way around your garden intelligently avoiding obstacles and can even be controlled with a smartphone. Pause its labours or summon it to you at the touch of a button from a dedicated app! iMow from £999.

5. British Mowing Quality

“Atco is one of the best known names in the industry, and has been making lawnmowers in Great Britain since 1921.”

“We stock names like Viking and John Deere, but Atco machines are competitively priced and good quality.”

Shown here is the GT38M, a workhorse of a lawn tractor and the company’s flagship.

It’s powered by a 500cc engine, but has hydrostatic transmission making it easy to drive and control precisely with no gears or clutch. There’s a mulching option, optional cart and tow bar, and a large capacity collector which holds 290 litres, which notifies you when it needs to be emptied with a convenient buzzer.

Atco GT38M, £2,299.

n Peterborough Grass Machinery is based on Ivatt Way, Peterborough PE3 7PG. Call 01733 268168 or see www.pgm-ltd.co.uk. The firm provides hire, sales and servicing of all garden machinery, with collection and delivery. Brands include John Deere, Viking, Stihl and Atco.

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LUXURY

CREATING OUTDOOR If you thought the options for creating beautiful outdoor spaces were limited to mere gravel and flagstones, prepare to be dazzled by a choice of safe, modern, attractive looking options for landscaping your terrace and outdoor spaces.

Rose Landscape’s Mark Daniels advises...

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We put an incredible amount of time and effort into choosing soft furnishings, paint shades and floor coverings. But what about your outdoor spaces?

“Many people think that their choice of surfaces for their outdoor spaces is limited to gravel and flagstones, perhaps some decking,” says Mark Daniels.

Mark is a landscaping expert at Peterborough’s Rose Landscapes. The company is the retail arm of Andrews Building Supplies, a large builder’s merchant serving landscapers, building contractors and other industry professionals since 1987.

“People have always been able to come in and browse, but despite the team’s friendliness and professionalism, it’s still a bit of an

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- HOMES -

“WE’VE A STRICT ‘FEEL FREE TO BROWSE’ POLICY, AND WE ALWAYS HAVE FRESH COFFEE ON THE GO. WE’D LOVE TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT...!” intimidating industry for householders, so we wanted to create a showroom, a space that’s more user-friendly and presentable for domestic customers rather than the industrial setting of a builder’s yard.”

“We’ve created around 30 ‘installations’ in the 6,000sq ft showroom, giving homeowners a better idea of how our products can look in situ, and providing some inspiration on how to mix and match materials for a smart look.”

“We’ve a wide range products in stock, with thousands more variations, colours and styles to order. We can provide expert advice on the use of different materials and properties, and show off the latest ranges, like permeable blocks which ‘drink up’ surface water to create safer, less slippery surfaces, or artificial grasses which are now indistinguishable from the real thing.”

“We’ve a strict ‘feel free to browse’ policy, and we always have fresh coffee on the go.

We’re happy to discuss your project, provide costings based on your measurements, and give inspiration for how to blur the distinction between your indoor and outdoor spaces.

We can help you to create terraces that are ideal for breakfast and al fresco dinners, gardens that are virtually maintenance free and outdoor spaces that are a beautiful mix of colour and texture.”

Eight Great Landscaping Ideas

1. Porcelain Paving: Weatherproof, and low maintenance, Profiled Graphite shown.

Offers a modern look, £51m2.

2. Natural Sandstone: Unique colours & natural veining, for a lovely texture.

Fossil Buff Stone shown, £24m2.

3. Concrete Paving: Available in ‘mix and match’ colours, styles and sizes.

Bronte Acorn Brown shown £24m2.

4. Permeable Block Paving: Allows water to drain away completely in record time, non-slip and practical £28m2.

5. Artificial Grass: More realistic than ever, low maintenance and children & pet-friendly, easy to clean. Wisdom 40mm shown £21m2.

6. Composite Decking: Realistic wood look but low-maintenance and weatherproof, no warping, wearing or re-treating £90m2.

7. Natural Slate Paving: Blue/black slate shown, £39m2, durable, natural, with individual character and sawn edges for a neat finish.

8. Aggregate: The perfect finishing touch for any border area, £106/jumbo bag, Jumbo Plum shown in 40mm size. n

“There’s definitely more choice here than most homeowners believe, so come in and browse our ranges, and we’ll help you to create luxurious landscapes and stunning outdoor spaces anywhere around your home.”

n For more information on any of Rose Landscape’s products, or for strictly no-obligation advice on landscaping your outdoor spaces, enjoy a browse around the firm’s showroom at Padholme Road East, Peterborough PE1 5XL. Alternatively call 01733 207857 or see www.roselandscapes.co.uk.

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Warmth & Security for

your home Specialising in quality conservatories, windows, doors and facias‌

01780 483969

Call now to secure a spring installation.

Or visit www.ambiancehi.co.uk for our quick and easy to use price guide.

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- HORSE TRIALS -

TRIALS &

TRIBULATIONS

Our county is renowned for its exciting, challenging Horse Trials, each designed to pit some of the world’s greatest eventing riders against one another.

The sporting events also create great family days out for fans of the sport...

Words: Hilary Manners. Images: Julia Shearwood and Adam Fanthorpe.

The Horse Trials Season is upon us: the Rio Olympics might be a distant memory but world-class equestrian sport returns to the Midlands in a few weeks. The region is lucky to host two prestigious early season horse trials, both in spectacular locations: Belton Park International takes place from 31st March to 2nd April while Rockingham Castle International runs from 19th - 21st May.

Rockingham International...

The Great Park surrounding Rockingham Castle enjoys some of the most spectacular views in the region, out across the beautiful Welland Valley - when the sun comes out there can be few better places to picnic.

Belton Park International...

Belton Park Horse Trials has long been a major pre Badminton run for eventing’s elite to showcase their top horses ahead of the most famous event in the world.

Now in its 37th year, Belton International’s weekend isn’t all about horses, although aside from the headline eventing classes, spectators can enjoy Retrained Racehorse performances, Pony Club Games, an InterHunt Relay and the ever-popular Gate Jumping class whose £500 ‘winner takes all’ prize makes for some fierce competition.

With dog display teams, dog agility and a fun dog show, those who enjoy their four legged companions a little smaller than the athletes thundering around the cross country courses are well catered for. And if you prefer your horse power under a bonnet, the diverse array of vehicles that come along to

the Classic Car show offers an enjoyable way to while away a few hours talking classic lines, colour schemes and carburettors.

Shopping is a big draw for visitors. Over 90 trade stands sell everything from the obvious horsey stuff to fashion, jewellery, furniture and even homemade jam. There are enough retailers to keep the most seasoned shopper busy for hours.

Opposite: Australia’s Chris Burton won Belton’s 2016 Grantham Cup riding Nobilis 18 – the horse on which he went on to win the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials four months later.

In contrast to Belton Horse Trials, Rockingham International burst on to the eventing calendar just four years ago and, right from the start, received rave reviews from competitors. The jumps might not be quite as large as some of those at Belton, but the calibre of rider remains the same, with Olympic, World and European medal winners competing their up and coming stars of the future, both in the eventing classes and the prestigious Burghley Young Event Horse series.

Pony Club riders come out in force in a bid to claim victory in the fiercely fought Team Show Jumping contest on the Saturday while, new for 2017, Riding Club members will have a similar opportunity the following day.

The weekend is always a shoppers delight, with everything from horse boxes to handmade English watches, leather goods to ladies clothing, and fine art photography to fudge to tempt those who venture round the tradestands.

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- HORSE TRIALS -

Return of the InterActive Zone...

Part of Belton's main shopping village, the InterActive Zone offers everything from Arts & Crafts and equine massage tips, to getting up close and personal to both the South Notts hounds or the Pakefield ferrets.

Ever fancied willow weaving or finger painting? Belton Park International is the place to have a go.

Whilst away from the InterActive Zone the ‘active’ theme continues. For those with energy to spare who attend the Horse Trials on the Sunday, the Grantham Cup 10k Trail Run is the region’s favourite off road run.

Last Year’s Winners...

Australia’s Chris Burton won Belton’s 2016 Grantham Cup riding Nobilis 18 - the horse on which he went on to win the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials four months later.

It was a great season for Chris who came within touching distance of Olympic Gold in Rio before errors in the final show jumping phase dropped him to fifth place.

The biggest financial winner at Rockingham did not win his class but, by dint of finishing the cross country course closest to the optimum time, Bill Levett, another Australian, went home with a £9,500 handmade English watch as winner of the Loomes Championship, thanks to Robert Loomes & Co from Stamford.

Do it in Style...

Hospitality is available at both Belton and Rockingham Internationals. Individually tailored hospitality packages are bookable in advance, offering delicious menus in prime locations overlooking the action.

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New for 2017 Belton is also offering a dedicated Members Area. Buy a Membership ticket and you will benefit from forward parking and a dedicated marquee offering tea and coffee – and rather more glamorous loos!

Discounted Tickets...

Advance tickets at reduced prices can be bought for both Events. At Belton prices start at £9 per adult and £3 per child, and at Rockingham tickets start at £10 with under 16s free of charge. n Belton International takes place from 31st March to 2nd April in Belton House’s Deer Park, NG32 2LS, just outside Grantham. Rockingham International runs from 19th - 21st May and is held in the Great Park of Rockingham Castle, LE16 8TH, one mile north of Corby.

See www.belton-horse.co.uk or www.rockinghamcastlehorsetrials.com.

“ROCKINGHAM INTERNATIONAL BURST ON TO THE EVENTING CALENDAR JUST FOUR YEARS AGO AND, RIGHT FROM THE START, RECEIVED RAVE REVIEWS FROM COMPETITORS...”

Above: You’ll find plenty of family-fun as well as equestrian action at both Belton and Rockingham.

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Nature

NOTES

Nature is returning to our gardens in April. We finally hear the morning chorus in full voice, start to see hibernating hedgehogs, and celebrate Earth Day...

Sticky

SPINES

Hedgehogs, when stimulated by a strong smell or taste, will self-anoint.

This means they cover their prickles in foamy saliva. No one is certain why they does this.

Spring is in the air in April, the month we all start to head outdoors again after hibernating through the winter months.

In correlation with this, April is full of nature celebrations including Earth Day and Picnic for the Planet.

Blackbirds will be flying high this year in search of pyracanthas, a red fruit, if the plants aren’t stripped of the berries already.

Robins and finches meanwhile are on the search for snowberries, white in colour.

The berry bushes are a good food source for the young birds and also provide good shelter from predators.

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Our summer birds will be coming back to the country this month and you’ll start to see more seabirds if you’re taking a stroll along the coast.

As bird numbers increase, so does the volume of the morning chorus. Songbirds will be singing in full throttle in April.

Horticulturally, watch out for woodland flowers, as these will be everywhere, while trees and hedgerows will finally be in leaf.

Another clear sign of spring will be the butterflies emerging of all different varieties. Look out for these at nature reserves and in your back garden.

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- NATURE -

RAINBOW

on Wings

As butterflies return to our gardens this month, here are a few you may see in April to May...

Speckled Wood is a common species found in woodland and scrub where grass grow in damper shaded areas.

Green-veined White are green in colour as larvae. A very adaptable and common species, it’s one of the world’s most successful butterfly species.

Above: Hedgehogs will start to come out of hibernation in April.

Opposite/Top: Robin red breast will still be on the search for snowberries.

Opposite/Bottom: Walk along the coast to see seabirds come out of nesting.

Opposite/Left: Grow wildflowers to see your garden come to life with nature this month.

You may see them particularly around early meadow flowers including orchids.

Spring is a glorious season as the days get longer and the sunshine brings growth and greenery; buds are fit to burst and leaves slowly unfolding.

You won’t just see butterflies in April either. All sorts of welcomed insects are attracted to our gardens as flowers appear including the buzz of bees.

The first few warm days will be when hibernating animals slowly emerge. Keep an eye out for any hedgehogs, newly emerged queen bees, frogs, grass snakes and toads.

If you have hawthorn in your garden, watch it burst into life as new fresh green leaves appear followed by creamy white flowers in late April.

The flower was known as May but now, we’re seeing the blossom in late April.

It’s a good idea to sow wildflower seeds this month if you want to bring nature into your garden.

If you would like see an abundance of nature, warts and all, create a pond as it’s the perfect time to attract toads and frogs.

They will travel long distances to find suitable ponds for their frog spawn and they travel at night. n

Orange-Tip is a distinctive spring butterfly. It is often seen in gardens and along hedgerows and roadside verges. It’s a fairly common butterfly.

Holly Blue butterflies emerge early in spring well before any other of the blues. It’s a common species but its population fluctuates often because of a parasitic wasp that feeds on holly blue larvae. You’ll see them around holly and ivy bushes.

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- FINANCIAL SERVICES -

Mutual Respect

Stamford’s NFU Mutual is just one office in a network of 300 branches serving the UK’s agricultural and rural communities. But you don’t have to be a farmer to take advantage of the group’s range of insurance, life cover, financial planning and investment products...

Farming may have changed dramatically since 1910, when NFU Mutual was founded.

But whatever’s happened in the countryside and in the farming industry, the firm has remained a constant companion for farmers, landowners and those in rural areas, providing insurance and life cover.

Stamford’s NFU Mutual office, one of 300 branches in the group, provides a range of insurance products for home, motor, equine and rural firms, as well as family protection and critical illness cover. In addition though, the office is able to put clients in touch with Chris Gormley to access a range of wealth management and savings products, and tax advice. With over 28 years in the sector and 18 years working for NFU Mutual, Ashley is local and understands his rural client base very well.

“Working for NFU Mutual means not only adhering the best practice in the financial

“WE ADHERE TO BEST PRACTICE IN THE FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY, AND TO THE ETHOS AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE NFU TOO...”

Left: Chris Gormley works alongside the team at Stamford’s NFU Mutual to provide a range of financial advice services.

services industry, but to the ethos and philosophy of the NFU too. That means supporting not just farmers and landowners, but the whole rural community and clients from other walks of life too.”

“Principally the two main areas of financial advice we offer are protection and provision, with pensions, investments and insurances all feeding into those two core needs.”

“A raft of changes in pension rules means more freedom and more choice, but potentially more confusion too. We’ve a modest range of products but they’re well-chosen and help to provide the best outcome for a client’s individual needs, whether those needs are growth, an income, or investment.”

“We’ve financial products for domestic, commercial or agricultural clients, so we are best placed to look at a client’s individual aims to simplify the choice and help anyone through the maze of products to provide a service that’s relevant.”

A member of the Chartered Financial Planning Institute, Chris works alongside the rest of the team at NFU Mutual Stamford to ensure that whatever your time of life and whatever your needs, the company can provide continuity and security both for farmers and landowners, but anyone else in Stamford & Rutland’s rural communities, too.

ARE THE RETURNS ON YOUR SAVINGS LOOKING A BIT LEAN? With interest rates at an all-time low, the return on your savings might be lower than you are used to.

So now’s a good time to review whether your savings are in good shape – and to get some good financial advice on what to do if they’re not.

• Are you giving your money the potential to work harder for you?

• Are you sure you’reinvesting regularly enough to support your long-term goals?

• Are you contributing enough to your pension to make sure you enjoy the retirement you want?

• It’s time to take action and find out how you can #feedpiggy Call us today and we’ll explain the advice services we offer and the charges. 01780 762421 NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. Financial advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Ltd. You need to know: You should be aware that the value of your investment and any income from it, may go down as well as up and you may get back less than invested.

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KEEP YOUR

WHEELS TURNING

With fuels and lubricants for tractors and other farm machinery...

01949 81019

or see www.e.org/fuels

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Fuels Division E (Fuels), based in Owthorpe, Notts., Heating Oils, Lubricants and Fuel Additives...

Domestic, Farm or Commercial use...

Delivery anywhere in the county...

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Au Naturel

Fiona and Chris’s wedding was inspired by nature, effortlessly combining a rustic style with class. Their marquee wedding will prove a source of inspiration for any bride-to-be...

Photographer: Edward Tyler Photography, 07970 828674, www.edwardtylerweddings.com.

Fiona & Chris’s story is one of friendship.

Meeting at work, the couple grew closer and closer, until finally they decided it was time to start a relationship.

After years of friendship, the couple got together in August and Chris proposed the following year, taking Fiona completely by surprise.

“Chris had just quit his job to start his own business so he decided to book an impromptu trip,” says Fiona. “By impromptu, I mean we booked it on Friday night and set off on the Saturday.”

The couple drove from London, through France, until finally they arrived at Lake Como, one of the most romantic places in the world.

“We took off on a speedboat one night, right

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into the centre of the lake. Chris cut the engine, and proposed to me. I found out he’d had the ring since December, but he knew I wouldn’t be ready so he waited.”

The couple started planning the wedding a few months after they got engaged with Fiona’s mum’s help who helped the couple look through venues.

“We booked loads of visits with venues, but none of them suited the style we wanted for our day. My parents were desperate for us to have the wedding in their back garden in a marquee, and the more we looked into it, the more we fell in love with the idea.”

“Chris is very decisive, and took an active part in planning the wedding with me.

Within three or four months, we had the marquee, band, catering, florist and some of

the other main components of the wedding booked.”

After they had decided on the big parts of the wedding together, Chris let Fiona have free rein on all of the details and, of course, her wedding dress.

“My dress is by the designer Stephanie Allin.

My mother and I went back to the same dress shop so many times, and after trying on loads of dresses, I kept coming back to the same one; it just felt right.”

“Many of the elements of our wedding such as the hanging flower rings, the bunting, the table numbers and table drinks were handmade by Chris, me and our families.” The personal touch they added to the wedding made it so special, and they managed to keep it classy.

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- WEDDINGS -

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- WEDDINGS -

“I was nervous about walking down the aisle, but I felt completely relaxed on the day. It felt natural...”

“I was nervous about walking down the aisle, but after seeing everyone smile at me, I just completely relaxed. It felt natural.

The funniest part about the day for me was walking into the wedding breakfast. The wedding party walked into the marquee in a procession and my parents completely stole the show with a catwalk-style entrance!”

“The silent disco was also a highlight for me.

We were dancing in the garden until 3am and not one complaint from the neighbours!”

The couple honeymooned to South Africa for just under three weeks, going on safaris and relaxing in Mozambique.

Photographer: Edward Tyler, 07970 828674, www.edwardtylerweddings.com.

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Award Winning Venue Exquisite Grade II listed Manor House and Stunning Grade I listed Orangery All set in beautiful gardens 29 splendid bedrooms

“We had the most amazing day, everything went perfectly & we will remember our day for the rest of our lives..�

We look forward to hearing from you.

Please contact us on 01536 515505.

Barton Road, Kettering NN15 6SG enquiries@bartonhall.com | www.bartonhall.com

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- WEDDINGS -

MARRY

IN STYLE

It’s been a decade in the making and has cost millions of pounds. But now, Rushton Hall’s brand new orangery is approaching completion and will be the largest and most luxurious wedding venue in the area. Tom Gilbert takes us on a tour...

We’ve always been fans of Kettering’s Rushton Hall, and it’s easy to see why, but this summer the place is set to become even more grand, and even more desirable for those planning their wedding.

Located just half an hour from Rutland, the country house hotel is set within 25 acres of leafy, ancient ground with woodland and lakes. At the heart of the estate is the 46 bedroom hotel with its luxury spa, Grand Hall and fine dining restaurant.

This year, the hotel’s former Pavilion building will be replaced with a brand new, multimillion pound orangery, the first of its kind anywhere in the UK, since obtaining permission to construct a new building on the edge of a Grade I building is very rare indeed.

“The new Orangery will be the perfect venue for weddings, conferences and events and will be able to cater for up to 300 people.”

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Words: Rob Davis.

that the Orangery fits with the look and feel of the rest of the beautiful historic stately home.

“This is a very exciting time for us here at Rushton Hall. Being such a popular venue for events, we wanted to not only offer our guests something extraordinary but also cater for a larger number of guests in spectacular surroundings.”

“To keep in style with the Grade I listed building, we used an architect who specialises in sensitive buildings to help with the design and style,” says the hotel’s Tom Gilbert.

With five stages of construction, the luxury Northamptonshire hotel is using the same stone as the rest of Rushton Hall to ensure Above: The new orangery will facilitate functions for up to 300 people and will feature a main room, ballroom and long gallery with its own self-contained facilities.

“The Orangery went through several planning processes, including having to be approved by Historic England, due to Rushton’s rich history.”

“The estate was originally built in 1438 and Thomas Tresham put the front gallery on to complete the building in 1600, very few other alterations and additions have been made in later years.”

The building is approaching completion as Pride goes to press, with scaffolding due to be removed and glazing due to be installed.

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The venue’s first weddings are due to take place in July, and in conjunction with the new building, a series of exclusive use packages have been created which will offer bridesto-be a base package from which they can create a luxurious and bespoke wedding.

Off-peak weddings from November 2017 to March 2018 will also be available with food and beverage packages from £95/head.

“The hotel offers luxurious accommodation, alongside being the only three rosette restaurant within Northamptonshire.”

“Rushton is the ideal venue for any event including conferences, parties as well as weddings. It’s steeped in a rich history and is the perfect place to unwind and feel at

home, but as a wedding venue we feel that the new orangery will make Rushton Hall even more unique,” says Tom.

“It’s been an exciting time, and the build has thrown up a few surprises, as one might expect from a building with such provenance. Now it’s approaching completion though, and we’re getting ready to welcome our first brides, the spring and summer months will definitely provide a number of reasons to celebrate.”

“It’s the most unique, the most luxurious and one of the largest wedding venues in the area, spectacular for photography and sufficiently grand for any bride and groom to really celebrate what will surely be the happiest day of their lives!” n

Orangery Weddings Early Booking: From April until July 2017, secure exclusive use of Rushton Hall for just £5,000 Sun-Thurs; £10,000 Friday & Saturday.

Peak Dates: Exclusive use from £12,000/Non-exclusive from £5,000.

Off Peak Dates: Exclusive use from £10,000/Non-exclusive from £4,000.

Wedding Packages: £95/head to£135/head for drinks, wedding breakfast and use of four poster bridal suite.

Rushton Hall, Northamptonshire NN14 1RR. Tel: 01536 713001, www.rushtonhall.com

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1

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Wedding Dresses SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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1. Eddy K Collections offer timeless Italian designs that never go out of style, like this A-Line Ivory style.

2. Sassi Holford has been creating Designer wedding dresses for 35 years. All gowns are handmade in England.

3. Caroline Castigliano is an internationally renowned designer of luxury bridal gowns handcrafted in the UK.

4. Maggie Sottero believe there is a perfect dress waiting to be discovered for every bride like this long-sleeved lace gown.

5. Cutting Edge Brides is UK’s largest stockist of tea length wedding dresses with a quirky vintage feel.

6. Justin Alexander is a well known brand globally. Their latest collection features a timeless bateau neckline.

7. Cristiano Lucci offers sexy and romantic styles, like this champagne and lace style with a plunging neckline.

8. Alvina Valenta is part of JLM Couture. They offer ethereal romance, iconic elegance, and effortless glamour.

Consult Rutland’s independent bridal shops for prices.

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6

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BLUSH &

BLUE

Put a spring into your step with Betty Barclay’s new collection of spring and summer essentials. The new collection features a stunning selection of blush and navy designs, hinting on modern fashion with a light pink but keeping it classy with a nautical theme, popular for spring and summer fashion...

Main: Navy floral Betty Barclay dress, ÂŁ90. This is a perfect dress option for an early summer holiday this year.

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- FASHION -

Betty Barclay, an original brand synonymous with high standards and sophistication, has just released its spring and summer collection for 2017.

This year, Betty Barclay has introduced into its range a modern blush pink theme.

The modern style stays classy and sophisticated, in shift dresses, coats and jackets.

Betty Barclay has also chosen to theme their latest designs around the sea and all things nautical. Navy is immediately a classy colour to wear in any style, but Betty Barclay flatters your figure and steers clear of the typical nautical themes you see year on year; they’ve put their own spin on a very popular summer style. n

Below: V-neck navy dress, £100.

Right: Pink dress with silver belt, £140.

Part of the brand’s celebration range.

Opposite Page: Betty Barclay jacket £140, pink and purple lace dress £140.

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- FASHION -

Main: For the Betty Barclay look: scarf £30, blouse £100, knitwear £75, trousers £110.

Below: This style includes a blush blazer £160, blouse £100, and denim trousers £100.

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Main: Part of Betty Barclay’s nautically styled items.

Jacket £150, blouse £75, and jeans £90.

Above: Betty Barclay scarf £30, jacket £140, shirt £45, jeans £100.

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- FASHION -

Main: The navy and white dress is £100 while the Betty Barclay cardigan is £65.

Below: Flattered bandage red dress, £110.

Find Out More: For more information and to discover more designs from the brand, or to purchase any you have seen in Pride, please visit www.bettybarclay.com.

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glen eden MEDICAL  AESTHETICS

Look YOUNGER AnD BooST your CONFIDENCE...

Painless, permanent hair removal anywhere on the body...

Permanent removal of unwanted tattoos...

Plus: Skin rejuvenation, facial redness, Rosacea & vascular lesions treatment for unsightly thread and spider leg veins...

Offered alongside cosmetic treatments like muscle relaxing injections for fine lines and wrinkles...

Call 01476 550056 www.glen-edenmedical.co.uk Market Cross Surgery, Bourne Road, Corby Glen, Stamford NG33 4BB

The Latest Laser and Injectable cosmetic procedures performed by fully qualified GP or Nurse Practitioner

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- COSMETICS -

1. SENDING A

SKINCARE SOS Soothe, de-stress and calm skin with Elemis SOS Emergency Cream.

Elemis is renowned for its ubiquity in spas and salons across the county, and now you can take the experience home too.

This product treats many skin concerns such as inflamed skin, sensitivity and acne thanks to Camomile, Lavender Absolute and Myrrh Essential Oil. We recommend applying a generous layer all over the skin, £52.50.

Spring Fresh

2. Scandi Skincare...

Wrap your skin in a velvety gel full of rich, hydrating ingredients. Highly concentrated Aloe Vera deeply replenishes whilst Vitamin A smoothes uneven skin. Scandinavian True North De-Stressed Mask is perfect for skin that may be lacking in nutrition, £59.

3. Sleeping Serum...

Regenerate, nourish and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with Purelogicol Anti-Gravity Serum. Idealift Peptide prevents skin sagging. Nano-vitamins allows faster absorption into the skin, £69.

4. In the Pink...

Illuminate, contour and lift with Rodial’s Pink Diamond Body Soufflé.

Retinol improves skin texture, whilst star ingredient Diamond Powder adds long-lasting radiance and sparkle. We recommend taking the soufflé all the way up to the neck. £95.

BEAUTY MUST-HAVES FROM JOHN ROHNAN WHARFF THIS MONTH WITH PICK-ME-UPS TO GIVE YOU A FRESH LOOK THIS SPRING...

5. Renew Your Skin...

Renew, replenish and restore skin with Zelens Transformer Instant Renewal Mask.

It’s a high performance mask which washes off easily and leaves behind a youthful, luminous glow.

See a visible, instant result thanks to the powers of Hyaluronic Acid, Sesame Proteins and real Pearl Powder.

We recommend using this mask before a smart evening out, £95.

n John Rohnan-Wharff is a beauty and makeup blogger, who reviews and rates products at www.mr-wharff.com. All products from good independent local stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP. 119

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- HOME INSTEAD -

No Place Like Home Instead

For those seeking bespoke packages of care provision, or a new vocation that can really make a difference to someone’s life, it’s time to consider Home Instead...

Giving up your independence is a daunting prospect at any age. When it comes to providing care for the senior members of our families, finding care solutions that are person-centred and dignified can be a tricky task.

Home Instead Senior Care is an exceptional at-home care provider, recently rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission, and who understand the challenges life can throw at us, and offer home based care solutions supporting their clients to live independent lives.

Home Instead CAREGivers offer more than just a spare pair of hands for chores and support, CAREGivers are chosen for their understanding and compassion and are specifically matched to clients who share similar interests.

This bespoke service offers clients the opportunity to carry on living normal lives enjoying all of their favourite activities and favourite haunts in and around Rutland with the help of a person with whom they share hobbies.

Rachel, Lisa & Emma are three dedicated Home Instead CAREGivers who not only make a real difference to the lives of their clients, but love to make that very special difference: Rachel, Training Co-Ordinator

Rachel, a Training Co-ordinator and Field Care Supervisor, loves being part of the 120

Words & Images: Gail Devereux-Batchelor.

“Clients plans and goals are already being drawn up for spring,” Lisa says. “It’s all about finding the things that really make a difference to the client. Giving them things to look forward to brings a whole new zest for life.”

Lisa loves taking clients out to tea, or shopping at our local markets. She enjoys the camaraderie between the CAREGivers and is incredibly proud of the 24/7 on call service supporting both clients and staff.

Home Instead team and enjoys the time she has to build up a relationship with her clients, something many companies do not offer. Part of that time is spent enjoying Rutland Water, a favourite spot thanks to great accessibility and incredible views. Rachel enjoys sharing time with her clients in the area’s lovely Harbour Cafe where together they meet new people and socialise.

Rachel has tremendous job satisfaction and cherishes her role. It not only allows her clients to re-visit favourite places bringing back happy memories but makes her feel so good about herself.

Lisa, Client Care Co-Ordinator

Lisa, a Client Care Co-Ordinator, swapped a career spanning 20 years with Social Services for the far more client focused approach she found at Home Instead.

Lisa relishes being able to produce and implement care plans created with client expectations and needs at the forefront, offering a truly tailor made service.

Emma, Client Care Co-Ordinator

It took Emma, a Client Care Co-Ordinator, a long time to find the perfect match for her skills. Emma’s mantra is ‘life is too short to be miserable’ - historically not staying long with companies who don’t offer what she understands as ‘proper care.’

Today she can enjoy offering the quality of care she has always wanted to give, the kind of care she terms as ‘priceless.’

“To be a good carer,” Emma says, “You need to have a kind heart, be happy to put other people before yourself, do what you promise, be reliable, have solid life skills, common sense and a sense of humour. If you have all of that then taking care of seniors in our community is the most rewarding role you can have! n Home Instead Senior Care provides awardwinning home care to elderly people, allowing them to stay in their homes for as long as possible.

The firm operates across Stamford and Rutland.

For more information call 01572 898147 or see www.homeinsteadjobs.co.uk.

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To view photographs from events like this one, please visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

Sycamore BMW Launch

Held in the nave of Peterborough Cathedral...

Sycamore BMW has just launched two of its brand new cars inside Peterborough Cathedral including the mid-size executive model BMW 5 Series and the MINI Countryman small SUV. The event was a tremendous success, with a number of people turning up to see the cars, and to enjoy the entertainment on offer, all organised by the BMW branch found in Peterborough.

The new cars were displayed inside the Cathedral, alongside a concert featuring a choir, guest speakers, hospitality, and of course the cars were unveiled in style. Our photographer Don Lambert went along to the event to photograph the motorists and enthusiasts. n For more information and see photos of the event, please visit www.donlambert.co.uk.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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Call 01529 469977 and speak to our Events Desk...

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View photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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WEB A SPIDER’S - MOTORS -

WITH WARMER WEATHER AND BRIGHTER SKIES COMES A YEARNING FOR TOP-DOWN MOTORING. IRONICALLY, GIVEN OUR CLIMATE, THE UK IS ONE OF EUROPE’S LARGEST MARKETS FOR CONVERTIBLE CARS, AND THIS ONE SHOULD PROVE ESPECIALLY APPEALING. IT’S ABARTH’S HEAVILY REWORKED VERSION OF FIAT’S 124 SPIDER, AND WE’RE ONLY TOO HAPPY TO BE CAUGHT IN ITS WEB...

Words: Rob Davis.

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- MOTORS -

When is a Fiat not a Fiat? When it’s an Abarth. The name refers to the tuning arm of the Italian company, responsible for taking the dinky Fiat 500 and creating scorching Mini Cooper destroying Italian hot hatches.

In the same way that AMG is the sporty sub-brand of Mercedes, or Lexus the luxury sub-brand of Toyota, so too is Abarth a premium brand under the Fiat umbrella.

As far as Abarth/Fiat’s new 124 Spider goes though, it’s a little less straightforward.

The two-seat roadster has been designed in conjunction with Mazda as they reinvented their MX5 model.

So why purchase an Abarth over a Fiat 124 Spider, and a Fiat 124 Spider over an MX5? Well, when Mazda delivers a virtually complete roadster to Fiat, Fiat change the engine, suspension and the body panels.

Maximum speed rises from 134mph to 144mph, and it’s quicker to 60mph too.

Fiat’s 1.4 turbo engine is gloriously revvy, fizzy and fun. It’s also easy to drive with a flick five speed gearbox as standard.

Then there are the handling upgrades.

The car’s limited slip differential aids grip, plus Bilstein dampers and a model-specific anti-roll bar.

For a start there’s a power upgrade, with power boosted from 140ps to 170ps, and torque rising slightly to 250nm, but is accessed at higher revs.

It’s the handling improvements, rather than the outright speed increase which makes the Abarth a more competent sports car, but even if you’re not an enthusiastic driver, you’ll still appreciate the stylistic upgrades that Abarth’s transformation brings.

In turn, Abarth takes the 124 Spider and turn the Italian passion up a notch still. The 124 Spider is priced at between £21,000 and £24,200 depending on trim, whilst the Abarth is £29,565 in manual, and £31,605 when specified with a sequential automatic gearbox. So where has that extra budget been spent?

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That’s all very technical, but the result is a sportier drive, a feel akin to a sports car tens of thousands of pounds more expensive, and a model that builds on the MX5’s already solid reputation for roadster fun.

“IT’S THE HANDLING IMPROVEMENTS, RATHER THAN THE OUTRIGHT SPEED INCREASE WHICH MAKES THE ABARTH A MORE WELL-ROUNDED SPORTS CAR...”

Above: The roadster is faithful to the original 1974 125 Spider. Its cabin, though, is a little more hi-tech, smothered in black and red leather.

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- MOTORS -

>> Glossy black alloy wheels, a matte black bonnet, and a beautifully finished interior transform the bland MX5 and plain looking Fiat into a scorchingly desirable sports car.

The Abarth is well-specified, far beyond its price point, too. You’d expect a roadster to be basic, spartan even, but with heated leather seats, climate control, cruise control, keyless go, DAB radio and Bluetooth all standard, the equipment roster is generous.

The only options are sat nav, a visibility pack, which includes rear parking sensors and LED headlights, and a Bose branded sound system.

What’s more, an economy figure of 44mpg combined (33mpg in town) ensures that it’s not too thirsty, and on a long run, you can expect 50mpg. That means it’s a sports car that will deliver the thrills its muscular looks promise, without destroying the planet.

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If I’m totally honest, roadsters aren’t really my preferred style of car, but really, I’d choose this car in a heartbeat over a Porsche Boxster, and certainly over the equivalent Mazda or Fiat.

The Abarth is cheaper than a Mercedes SLC, or a Boxster, and even if you compromise on looks and opt for, say, a Mini Cooper, the price will still creep up to more than the price of an Abarth by the time you’ve added the same level of specification.

It’s not only lovely to look at, with handling faithful to its Italian sports car heritage, it’s great value too. At £31,000, the Abarth can make a fun, fizzy and affordable second car to your family friendly 4x4 - something fun for the summer months when the children have better things to do than go out for tea with mum and dad on warm summer nights. As roadsters go, it’s pretty much the best one on the market right now.

Abarth 124 Spider Turbo MultiAir 170hp

Price: £30,825.

Engine: 1.4 V4 Turbo, 6-speed automatic (170hp) Economy: 42.8mpg (combined), 153g/CO2.

Top Speed: 142mph; 0-60mph 6.9secs.

Equipment: Heated leather seats, 7” screen, cruise control, climate control, DAB radio, automatic transmission.

Roadster hood and electric windows.

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