Rutland Pride April 2022

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RUTLAND

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WELCOME

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ou can always find some cause for optimism, but this month, we’re feeling especially upbeat. For a start it’s spring which means blue skies and warmer weather. Next, there’s a sense that Rutland and Stamford are gearing up for a wonderful summer. Already, news of county shows and summer events are beginning to trickle through to our news and events team, and we’re beginning to hear about the plans being made to celebrate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee... it’ll be an exciting summer for sure!

This month we’re enjoying a visit to Cottesmore to discover a little more about one of the area’s prettiest villages. We’re also out and about enjoying NGS gardens for spring and summer, and we’ve a trio of local walks for those seeking to get some fresh air and exercise.

Elsewhere? We’re exploring the relationship between horse and rider plus we’ve a chat with the new Director of Stamford’s Burghley Horse Trials, Martyn Johnson, who tells us what’s new for the 2022 event.

We’ll also enjoy dining out with the Trevor family at Witham on the Hill’s Six Bells and we pay a visit to Kilworth House, one of the area’s most impressive country house hotels and theatres.

Our best wishes, for a great month!

This month’s Rutland cover: The stunning grounds of Hambleton Hall, picture taken at sunset by Lauren Williams.

It’s a spectacular backdrop for an equally spectacular country house hotel.

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

This month’s Stamford cover: Does anywhere look better than Stamford on a spring and summer day? Blue skies definitely enhance the pretty limestone buildings and shimmering Welland.

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68 CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

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NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford including the arrival of dinosaurs at nearby Peterborough Cathedral!

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WHAT’S ON Live events this spring with performances of music, comedy and theatre.

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HIGHLIGHTS 22

HORSES This month we’re

A TRIP TO COTTESMORE Vice Chairman of Cottesmore’s Parish Council John Meara takes us on a tour of Rutland’s largest village.

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FRANK NEWBON A history of Stamford in photographs thanks to the enigmatic Frank Newbon!

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KILWORTH HOUSE The stunning Victorian country house hotel offering a very warm welcome to its guests.

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enjoying the hospitality of the Trevor family at The Six Bells at Witham on the Hill near Stamford.

RECIPES & WINE Asparagus recipes and wine recommendations to accompany those Easter Eggs.

HOMES & GARDENS 68

WELCOME HOME The superbly located Barnett’s Farm based in Egleton provides a family home close to Oakham.

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IN THE GARDEN A round up of upcoming NGS Open Gardens.

celebrating the bond between horse and rider.

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DINING OUT This month we’re

FASHION & LIFESTYLE 110

WEDDINGS Matt & Emmy’s day.

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FASHION A mixed bag of clutch, shoulder and totes, to ensure you’ve got spring style in the bag.

128 MOTORS Porsche electric Taycan.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

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FREE ONLINE

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

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

This helps to ensure we have a continued presence, right across our catchment area.

Our titles also have more social media fans than any other local magazine. In addition we have over 30,000 online readers each month who view the magazine free of charge, online, on their tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website, our app, and via the Readly and Issuu platforms.

If your business would benefit from being showcased to the wealthiest people in the area, please call our friendly sales team on 01529 469977.

Amazing new app out now: You can read our magazines on any device anywhere.

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

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

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

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.

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Manager: Cydney Buck.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

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

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Carefully selected artists from the Royal Academy, Royal Institutes, Federations and Societies

Martin Leman | Cat with A View | 11” x 11” | £1500

5-8 The Mews • The George Hotel • Stamford • PE9 2LB Tuesday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm | 01780 480800 Also at Lees Yard • Holt • Norfolk | Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm | 01263 713883 Please visit the website to view and purchase our artworks

w w w. a d r i a n h i l l f i n e a r t . c o m 6

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OUNDLE MILL KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN

Consultation by appointment oundlemill.co.uk Oundle Mill | Barnwell Rd | Oundle | Peterborough | PE8 5PB

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NEWS & EVENTS

Rutland makes plans for Jubilee...

LOCAL COMMUNITIES ARE MAKING PLANS TO CELEBRATE HER MAJESTY’S PLATINUM EVENT RUTLAND Plans to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee in Rutland are well underway, with local communities encouraged to take part in a host of local celebrations.

Her Majesty the Queen will shortly become the first Monarch to celebrate 70 years of service, after ascending to the throne in 1952.

Lots of activities are planned as part of a huge national celebration, including the lighting of beacons, festivals, and the Big Jubilee Lunch.

Communities and local businesses are being encouraged to decorate their village, street and home during Community Decorations Week from Monday 23rd to Friday 27th May, with bunting and flags to start the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in Rutland. There will also be Beacon Lighting

ceremonies in both Oakham and Uppingham, plus a series of Jubilee Festivals on Friday 3rd June. During the Rutland County Show on Saturday 4th June, organisers are planning

Location, location, location!

ENGLISH TOURISM WEEK MARKET WITH A SPECIAL FILM AND TV TOUR AROUND TOWN

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a Platinum Jubilee theme which will run through the whole event, and on Sunday 5th June, Big Jubilee Lunch events will also be held across the county.

STAMFORD Ever had that feeling of déja vu when you’re watching a costume drama set in the Georgian era?

Unsurprisingly, Stamford has proved a popular location for film and TV crews over the years, and most recently, Burghley House has served as a stunt double for Windsor Castle in The Crown, which will recall HM The Queen’s annus horribilis in 1992 when the new series airs in autumn.

Meanwhile, in recognition of English Tourism Week in late March, a special walking tour of Stamford will be held, taking in some of the

Services of thanksgiving will be held throughout Rutland to celebrate the Jubilee, with details of these services to be confirmed later this month. n

locations used for filming in and around Stamford.

The tour will take in filming locations for Middlemarch, Pride and Prejudice and The Crown.

The tour will take place on 26th March, and on 21st May, organised by Stamford Arts Centre.

Tours leave from the Arts Centre around 11am and pre-booking is strongly recommended. n Elsewhere, Burghley House will host its exhibition ‘William Cecil & Stamford 500 Years of Royalty and Politics’ on 16th April.

RECOGNITION FOR SERVICES TO CHARITY

RUTLAND Local sporting celebrity and former Leicester Tigers player Matt Hampson has been recognised with an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours for his services to charity. Since establishing his Foundation ten years ago, hundreds of people suffering a life-altering injury through sport have joined the special community at the Get Busy Living centre and received support to rebuild their lives.

Tommy Cawston, CEO of the Foundation and close friend

of Matt’s said: “Matt has dedicated his life to helping others in a similar situation to him and this recognition is well-deserved. What he’s achieved since his injury is remarkable and here at the Foundation we are all really proud of him.”

“Next year we celebrate our tenth anniversary and I’m really excited about what we have planned for the future.”

Matt received his OBE in late February from HRH The Princess Royal. n

Town council’s shopping spree SEVERAL SITES TO BE PURCHASED FOR A BARGAIN £1, ALTHOUGH THEIR UPKEEP WILL COST RATHER MORE...

MP Alicia shows off Rutland to Minister...

RUTLAND MP for Rutland and Melton, Alicia Kearns, recently invited the government minister for sport, heritage and rural society to Rutland to show off the very best that Rutland has to offer. Alicia and Nigel Huddleston visited Oakham Castle and Rutland Water: “It was a such a joy to show the minister just some of what Rutland has to offer, and how tourism in Rutland can grow and thrive with government support.” n

“Rutland has so much to offer tourists already and he certainly enjoyed boating on Rutland Water

STAMFORD We all love a bargain, and Stamford Town Council is no exception. The council is set to enjoy a shopping spree, acquiring St Peter’s Bastion, St Leonard’s Priory and playing fields on Empingham Road and Uppingham Road for £1 each, although the council will need to maintain those site, adopting responsibilities like grass cutting.

The council could also purchase the public toilets in Red Lion Square, again for a nominal fee of just £1, on the assurance of funding their upkeep and cleaning... which gives a new meaning to the expression ‘spending a penny...!’ n

A Star Cross’d Summer

Matt collects OBE...

STAMFORD Tickets are on sale now for the 2022 season at Stamford Shakespeare Company’s Tolethorpe Hall. This year’s productions will be Romeo & Juliet and three non-Shakespearean plays too. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief RUTLAND x

The area’s best dining rooms are celebrated in 2022 Michelin guide...

A trio of absolutely exceptional restaurants are featured in the 2022 Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland.

Of course, Hambleton Hall retains its star for the 40th consecutive year, continuing to offer impressive dining in a comfortable and welcoming country house setting.

Clipsham’s Olive Branch is praised in the guide as a ‘Characterful village pub providing rustic British dishes that are fiercely local.’

Mentioned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant is Hitchen’s Barn, run by Neil & Louise Hitchens. n 9

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NEWS & EVENTS

Dinosaur exhibition in Peterborough

PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL WILL BE DOING A ROARING TRADE THIS YEAR PETERBOROUGH A two-year wait due to Covid-19 may seem a long time to us, but it’s no time at all when you think that T-Rex and his fellow dinosaurs lived nearly 70,000,000 years ago! Peterborough Cathedral has announced that the Natural History Museum’s touring exhibition, T-Rex The Killer Question, will be shown in the 900-year-old building from 18th July to 3rd September 2022.

Plans to present the exhibition in 2020 and 2021 had to be shelved due to the pandemic. The exhibition poses the killer question: was T-Rex a ferocious hunter or a mere scavenger?

To help visitors think about this, the exhibition presents scenes showing the behaviour of several different dinosaur species, from the small and agile Sauronitholestes, to the savage Dromaeosaurus and the

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

LOCAL POLICE HIT THE ROOF OVER DANGEROUS DRIVER...

A dangerous driver was stopped by police recently after CCTV operators noticed a vehicle driving around Stamford’s Cattle Market with a folding garden chair strapped to its roof with bungee cords and a passenger on top... the driver was arrested and charged for what was described as a ‘stunt.’ n

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plant-eating Tenontosaurus.

It also shows examples of bones and fossils to see what they can tell us about T-Rex. “We’re excited that after a long wait due to the pandemic

we are now able to bring this wonderful exhibition to the Cathedral. We know that many people, children especially, are fascinated by these pre-historic creatures and this

Discipuli thermas Romanas visitare...

will be a fantastic opportunity to see them right here in Peterborough rather than travelling to London,” says The Very Revd Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough. n

OAKHAM Latin students from Oakham School travelled to Bath, to see the Roman Baths Museum and examine firsthand some of the artefacts that appear in their textbooks.

Head of Classics, Dr Will Leveritt, said: “Pupils were impressed by the steaming water emerging from the ground and the amazing remains of the Roman structure. The lead piping and the underfloor heating were particularly impressive, as was the enormous brick spine supporting the huge high roof with which pupils came face to face. Particularly interesting was the display of curse tablets or ‘defixiones...!’” n

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Highcross Shopping Ce entre, Leicester

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DEEPING GATE, CAMBRIDGESHIRE Guide Price £1,750,000

Tel: +44(0)1780 750200 Email: stamford@fineandcounty.com

Sitting within easy reach of Stamford and Peterborough is a unique, spacious, contemporary home providing six bedrooms, four with en suites, two further bathrooms, an open plan kitchen/diner/sunroom with separate reception room divided by a double-sided fireplace, a study, a purpose-built cinema, a gym and a triple garage integral to the house. The private plot is circa 3.5 acres and includes a paddock behind a well-appointed one-bedroom annex. The main house is an exemplary, state-of-the-art residence with attention to detail. It is rare to find something produced to this extreme level of sophistication outside London. Outside, a granite terrace extends across most of the back of the house, a continuation of the kitchen dining area. The gardens are predominantly lawn interspersed with a variety of mature trees and shrubs. The property also benefits from a recently refurbished annex fitted with a kitchen and a wet-room, with vaulted ceilings and exposed timbers.

Tel: +44( 0)1572 335145 Email: rutland@fineandcounty.com

fineandcountry.com

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CROWLAND, LINCOLNSHIRE Guide Price £1,300,000

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

A superb, recently built, contemporary property sits on 2 acres in an extremely tranquil position just on the edge of the market town of Crowland affording stunning, far reaching views across the fenland landscape. Peterborough with its fast rail service to London, and the A1, is about a 15 minute drive south, the pretty market town of Spalding the same to the north, and glorious Stamford about half an hour west. The beautifully designed house provides open plan living downstairs plus two more reception rooms, four upstairs bedrooms - three with en suites, three utility rooms and two adjoining garages. Outside, a vast but very attractive new building gives huge scope for developing the property further, and an enclosed paddock of around an acre is ideal for grazing horses.

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NEW

BISBROOKE

£625,000

An attractive detached house offering spacious accommodation with high quality fixtures and fittings set in a desirable village location, close to the historic market town of Uppingham.

Sitting Room, Family Room, Study, feature Dining Kitchen, Clkrm/WC, 4 Bedrooms, Master En-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; single Garage, off-road Parking, enclosed rear Garden. Energy Rating: C.

MARKET OVERTON

NEW

NEW PRICE

SOUTH LUFFENHAM

Offers in Excess of £650,000

Immaculately presented, substantial detached family home enjoying far-reaching countryside views to the rear. The generously-proportioned and energy-efficient accommodation is appointed to a high standard throughout. Lounge, Snug, Living Room, open-plan Dining Kitchen, Utility, Cloakroom/WC, 4 large Double Bedrooms, Master Dressing Room and En-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; ample Parking, fully enclosed Garden. Energy Rating: B.

UPPINGHAM

£645,000

A delightful character property set on a select development of seven Mews Style houses set in the heart of a fine conservation village. The well-proportioned and tastefully appointed accommodation sympathetically combines period features and charm with modern high quality fixtures and fittings. Sitting Room, Conservatory, open-plan Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm/WC, Master Bedroom with en-suite Shower Room, 2 further dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom. Single Garage, Parking, Mature, Private Garden. Energy Rating: TBC.

£550,000

Substantial detached house providing immaculately presented accommodation with 4 good-sized Double Bedrooms and 3 Bath/Shower Rooms situated in a sought-after residential area of Uppingham.

Built of a unique design to this development, the property provides exceptionally well-planned and spacious accommodation and benefits from a double Garage, Car Port, ample off-road Parking and fully enclosed west-facing rear Garden. Energy Rating: C.

NEW

UNDER OFFER

BRAUNSTON IN RUTLAND

£695,000

Charming mid-19th century detached cottage with sympathetic modern extension combining character with contemporary style, occupying a large plot with stunning views over the village cricket ground. The property provides spacious and flexible accommodation, immaculately presented throughout whilst retaining an array of period features. 3 Reception Rooms, Conservatory, Living Dining Kitchen, Utility, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath-/Shower Rooms; Dbl Garage. Energy Rating: F.

OAKHAM

£460,000

Well-proportioned detached house with Garage, off-road Parking and fully enclosed Garden providing tastefully appointed four-bedroom accommodation with good quality fixtures and fittings set in a highly sought-after location. Lounge, Dining Room, Brkfst Kitchen, Utility, refitted Clrkm/WC, 4 Double Bedrooms, refitted Master En-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom. Energy Rating: C.

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Guide Price £900,000

Guide Price £575,000

The Laurels, Wymondham

Chaffinch Close, Oakham

A substantial iron-stone and brick village home with expansive and beautifullypresented accommodation, sitting on a generous plot in a quiet backwater of this popular rural village.

A spacious and immaculately-presented, five-bedroom detached family home sitting in a sought-after location just a short walk from the centre of the historic market town of Oakham.

Guide Price £350,000

Guide Price £310,000

The Old Bakehouse, Barrowden

Adderly Street, Uppingham

A pretty, detached two bedroom stone-built cottage well positioned in the centre of the sought-after village of Barrowden.

A charming town house set over three floors and offering spacious and wellpresented accommodation with garden and outbuilding in the heart of Uppingham.

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PROPERTY FINDERS

Do I need a property finder?

Local property finder, Kate Vincent shares some of the questions frequently posed by buyers to better understand how Garrington can help them purchase their next home in a fast-moving, competitive market.

What exactly does a property finder do?

We act exclusively on behalf of property purchasers: sourcing and pre-viewing homes, negotiating the best possible price and then nurturing the purchase and due diligence process through to completion.

What can you do that I am unable to do myself?

Our sole focus is to help clients find their perfect property, then acquire it at the best possible price and ensure that the transaction goes through as smoothly as possible. In a fiercely competitive market, where there is an acute lack of stock, Garrington can offer a competitive advantage for its clients against other buyers. Professional representation frequently enables priority access to opportunities, and off-market houses may be uncovered due to the long-standing relationships between Garrington’s consultants and their local property network. Being immersed in the Stamford and Rutland property market means no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of the perfect property.

Sounds promising, but still, why should I pay a fee?

Most of our clients see our fees as an investment rather than a cost. As a client, you will benefit from working with someone truly independent who is on your side and spends time properly understanding your full requirements. Our advice is objective, takes market conditions into account, considers your priorities, and

advises what can realistically be achieved – both in terms of property prices and timescales.

In a fast-moving and competitive market, having the knowledge and experience that a local professional buying agent offers allows a buyer to be decisive under pressure and can avoid the potential pitfalls of buying in a market that can sometimes feel frenzied.

We often hear about properties that have sold but we didn’t see them advertised.

How do we find out about these?

Off-market properties are homes that are sold away from the public eye with no advertising (certainly not on web portals!) or publicity. To hear about these properties, you need to be very well connected or willing to actively approach homeowners to gauge if there is an appetite to sell.

Sourcing and negotiating this type of property is a specialist skill, so it is best to get expert advice from a property professional like myself. Whilst this method of sourcing property is not guaranteed to always yield results, Garrington regularly unearths exciting opportunities in this way.

Can you give me an example of how you have helped one of your clients move home and the difference you made?

Garrington has recently helped a client move from an urban setting seeking more space and a great work-life balance now that their job

Kate Vincent Garrington

allows greater flexibility. Not being familiar with the area and unable to be in constant contact with local agents, they had missed out on several properties that would have suited them well.

Having looked tentatively at homes for several months they had become disconcerted by the lack of choice and the advice from local selling agents, fearing they might have to rent in the interim. Being conscious of timing due to planning for moving schools and needing a location that would suit an occasional commute, the client was concerned about exactly where to buy and securing a property within the desired time frame.

We made a critical difference by offering advice on locations, focusing the search area, and then actively pursuing suitable homes to buy. Due to our local contacts, we were able to access homes to view that were not yet on the open market, and then secured the chosen property pre-market before competition from other buyers arose.

If you are considering your property options and would like more information about how to better navigate your local property market, contact Kate Vincent to arrange a no-obligation discussion.

Tel. 01780 408377.

Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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SMITH ELIOT ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Time is Ripe As the end of the 2021/2022 tax year approaches, the time is ripe to ensure the fruits of your labours aren’t lost to tax inefficiency. Thankfully, whatever your financial goals, advice from Oakham-based Smith Eliot – which is a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management – can help, with unique advice tailored to your circumstances...

Now is the ideal time to seek professional advice to ensure your finances are as efficiently organised as possible. It’s not too late to take full advantage of the tax reliefs and allowances available to you before the end of the tax year.

Smith Eliot of Oakham was established in 2009 and has been providing financial advice on investment planning, retirement planning, tax, trusts, ISAs and mortgages to individuals and businesses across Rutland and the surrounding area ever since.

Recently the team have made available to both existing and potential customers an easily digestible 20-page guide to getting the most from your 2021/2022 tax allowances.

“The advice is broken down in such a way as to encourage you to think systematically about your goals – shorter term and longer term – then the booklet offers a jargon-free explanation how those aims might be achieved,” says the Practice’s Stephen Smith.

Building a Foundation

“If you’re building a foundation for your finances, your aims might include buying your first home, planning for a family and starting to create a portfolio of investments.

ISAs, a Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) and pensions are all financial tools that you might consider,” says Stephen.

Secure Your Family’s Future...

“The next state of your financial life is a period when you’ll probably want to make the most of your investments, give your children a good start in life – fund their University education, or help them get a foot on the property ladder – you’ll also want to evaluate your personal circumstances to ensure you’re sufficiently funding a comfortable retirement. At this stage, ISAs, PSAs and issues pertaining to pensions, Capital Gains Tax and the payment of dividends all become more relevant.”

Retire in Style and Pass on Your Wealth...

“If your investments are performing well, your priority will be evaluating how and when to retire. It’s at this stage of life you’ll also be concerned with helping your family to avoid paying too much Inheritance Tax. The booklet that Smith Eliot is offering clients provides an explanation of ISAs, PSAs, pensions and inheritance tax as well as an explanation of dividends before providing a year-end tax checklist.

“Wealth management can be a technically in-depth subject, and it’s one that changes at every stage of your life and as new rules, guidance and legislation are issued,” says Stephen. “For that reason there’s absolutely no substitute for professional advice.”

“The more a wealth management company understands your personal circumstances,

the better-placed they are to ensure that the advice you’re offered is responsible and consistent with best-practice across the profession.”

“Putting our clients firmly at the heart of everything we do enables us to run a genuinely client-focused business. In our experience, no two clients are the same and we therefore ensure that we understand your personal or business objectives and deliver solutions that are right for you.”

“We do not provide off-the-shelf solutions, but we offer the benefit of a single relationship for all of your financial planning needs.

We recognise the value of face-to-face consultations, regular reviews and client feedback to ensure that the advice we offer doesn’t just provide sound financial advice, but peace of mind too.”

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up.

You may get back less than you invested.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. n

Smith Eliot Financial Management Ltd is an appointed representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Chat to Smith Eliot, based at Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT. Call 01572 492359 or see www.smitheliotfinancialmanagement.co.uk.

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HORSE

POWER This month we’re going back to Burghley, meeting local eventers and dressage riders Victoria & Richard Jones, and going behind the scenes with a top local farrier...

Image: Oliver Townend riding Ballaghmor Class, © Nixonphoto.

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From Burgham to Burghley, Martyn Johnson is Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials’ new Event Director and promises not only a return to form but an event which continues to evolve to meet the demands of its fans...

Evolution, rather than revolution, is what you can expect from this year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, but don’t be deceived.

Behind the scenes, there are significant changes to one of the UK’s – indeed, the world’s – most challenging and most wellrespected FEI equestrian events.

For a number of years, custodianship of the event had been in the hands of Event Director, Liz Inman, but upon her retirement last year, the event sought a new head, and It’s been confirmed that the Land has found its leader in the Rover Burghley Horse Trials will form of Martyn Johnson, be held from 1st-4th September, whose first Land Rover with dressage, jumping and and until last year, he was a new cross-country course Burghley Horse Trials will competing in eventing and designed by Derek be held from 1st to 4th jumping, albeit not quite at di Grazia.

September this year.

Burghley levels. Martyn was also running the Burghham Horse Trials, “The recruitment process was detailed. I based in Morpeth. think there were three interviews in total,” says Martyn. “Which is understandable, “I’ve competed in all equestrian disciplines at really, because the event is a large social quite an advanced level, so first and foremost occasion, but also a world-class sporting I’ve huge respect and admiration for the fixture all in one. It’s also 60 years old and is competitors and the level of fitness, focus and one of the favourite events in the calendar for the investment of time and hard work in many people. It’s quite a responsibility, quite achieving success in the sport. Burgham was an undertaking to suddenly be at the helm of a stepping stone to Burghley, and we always something so established and so hallowed.” admired the event.”

Burghley Horse Trials

For all the reverence though Martyn is, we reckon, a safe pair of hands. For a start he’s no stranger to event riding. Born and raised in Northumberland, he still rides frequently 24

Above: A subtle evolution of the course promises to retain some of its most iconic obstacles.

Right: New course designer Derek di Grazia with Martyn Johnson, Event Director.

“My competitive riding career began properly in 2006. I became involved in Burgham in 2012 and when the event lost one of its organisers, and there was a threat of its closure, I joined the committee.”

“That was in 2013. At the time the event was a national, FEI-affiliated four-star event and we developed it into an international event within three years.”

“Meanwhile, I’d been enjoying attending the Burghley Horse Trials for about 15 years, even though I’d never competed here. We’d been fortunate enough to be able to run Burgham throughout Covid. In fact we were the first international event to run in 2020, putting it back by a month.”

“It was in July 2021 that I first heard that Liz Inman was planning to step down.” >>

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MARTYN JOHNSON

EVENT DIRECTOR, LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

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MARTYN JOHNSON

EVENT DIRECTOR, LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

“As we get closer to the event, we’re certain that this year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will be an event that nobody will want to miss. Last year we announced that Derek di Grazia will be taking on the responsibility of designing the course.

The majority of it has been finalised and it’s obvious that Derek has made a great effort to really understand the topography of the estate...” >> “We’d met a few times both at different eventing fixtures but also at meetings and seminars attended by directors of those events.”

“I always had a lot of time and respect for Liz, and the idea that I could take on the show and match her dedication and commitment to it was daunting to say the least.’

“Nonetheless I’m keen, motivated, and I think that alongside a really great team we can evolve the event whilst ensuring we never lose sight of the qualities that ensure it’s so well-regarded both as a sporting fixture and as a day out for people to enjoy, too.”

“I was at home, late September or at the beginning of October, when the phone call came, and there was a mixture of all different emotions, from joy right through to fear!”

“It’s an unusual time to start working at the event because the last event was held in 2019 so although we’re far from starting from the very beginning, there’s been lots of scope for renegotiating with contractors or making changes. Few of those will be visibly dramatic changes, but it has given us a chance to look in great detail at each aspect of the event.”

“Making a change to something dramatic like the event’s layout would be like dropping a pebble in the water; you’d see the effects rippling outwards. So we do have in mind some of the things we’d like to change for future events, but for this year’s Trials, we’re just keen that the event goes ahead and that we can use the opportunity to learn and assess what we can do in future years to improve the experience for all stakeholders; owners, competitors and visitors.”

“There are ways that the event will evolve, though. For instance, online connectivity across the event has gone from being a convenience to a necessity for things like allowing our 600 trade stands to take card payments, and for the media to ensure they can remain connected.”

“Food, too, is an area that has evolved even since the last show in 2019. This year we’re making a number of improvements to our food concessions and one of the reasons is to ensure there’s good provision for vegetarian and vegan diets, for example.”

“We’re also mindful of the way the media has evolved even over the past couple of years, and now streaming is much more prevalent.”

“The majority of the course has been finalised and some of the obstacles will be familiar – again the idea is evolution rather than revolution – but there are some innovations, and having walked the course with him I think it will be obvious that Derek has made a great effort to really understand the topography of the estate.”

“The final walk with FEI officials and the clerk of the course will take place in April and then we’ll be making more details public, but it’s definitely going to enhance spectators’ enjoyment of that part of the competition, and continue a tradition of making the Burghley Horse Trials one of the most thrilling spectacles whilst ensuring safety for horse and rider.”

“As we get closer to the event, we’re certain that this year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will be an event that nobody will want to miss. We’re always really grateful to be working “Another change this year, Land Rover Burghley Horse with our title sponsor, Land Trials is thought to contribute over perhaps a more noticeable Rover, who will be showing £20m each year to the town’s one, will be our new off their flagship Range economy. The event is attended cross-country course.” by 170,000 people and Rover and their Defender, includes 600 trade which has tremendous provestands.

“For a number of years nance but has evolved too...

Captain Mark Phillips has much like the Horse Trials itself.” been in charge of designing that “And finally, the competition’s prize fund will element of the competition.” be the largest in the event’s 60-year history, “Last year we announced that Derek di with the winner of the 2022 Land Rover Grazia will be taking on the responsibility.

Burghley Horse Trials taking home £100,000.

Derek has worked hard to design Kentucky’s It’s certainly going to be an exciting event for five-star course for over a decade and also me, but I’m hoping that for our competitors created the course for the Tokyo games in and our spectators too, this year’s Burghley 2021, so we’re looking forward to everyone’s Horse Trials will make a welcome return and reaction to the course he’s created here.” will prove to be the best in its history!” n “Accordingly, we’re ensuring that every minute of the event’s competition can be live-streamed to ensure everyone, across the globe, can watch it.”

Burghley and Stamford

Find Out More: Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will take place from 1st to 4th September 2022, with tickets on sale from 28th April. For more information see www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

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BURGHLEY 2022: Provisional Timetable...

THURSDAY 1st SEPT 7.30 Gates Open 8.00 – 09.30 Members Only: Breakfast served in the Members’ Enclosure 9.00 – 17.30 Shops Open 9.00 – 17.00 Main Arena: Dressage 12.30 approx Main Arena: Display 9.00 – 17.00 Ring 2: Le MieuxPony Club Team Jumping 18.00 Showground Closes

FRIDAY 2nd SEPT 7.30 Gates Open 8.00 – 09.30 Members Breakfast 9.00 – 17.30 Shops Open 9.00 – 17.00 Main Arena: Dressage 12.30 & 16.30 Main Arena: Display 9.00 – 17.00 Ring Two: Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Finals 12.30 Ring Two: Show of British Sport Horse Stallions 18.00 Showground Closes

SATURDAY 3rd SEPT 7.30 Gates Open 8.00 – 09.30 Members Breakfast 9.00 – 17.30 Shops Open 11.00 – 17.00 Cross Country SUNDAY 4th SEPT 7.30 Gates Open 8.00 – 09.30 Members Breakfast 9.00 – 17.00 Shops Open 9.00 Main Arena: Horse Inspection 10.30 Main Arena: Showjumping

12.00 Main Arena: Display 12.20 Main Arena: Racehorse to Riding Horse Qualifier 14.00 Main Arena: Military Band 14.25 Main Arena: Showjumping 15.25 Main Arena: Parade of Hounds 15.45 Main Arena: Prize Presentation 9.00 – 17.00 Ring 2: BSPS Gold Cup Sports Ponies. n To double check the event’s provisional timetable, please see www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

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RICHARD & VICTORIA JONES EVENTING & INTERNATIONAL DRESSAGE RIDERS

Based in South Luffenham, husband and wife team Richard & Victoria Jones have each achieved great success in the disciplines of event riding and dressage.

Both compete in their sports at extremely high levels...

“I’m not actually sure!” says Victoria Jones. “I don’t know how many horses we have right now because it changes literally every day, according to which owners’ animals we have in the yard. But it’s usually between 20 and 25.”

“It’s testimony to the really wonderful team we have around us that the day-to-day running of the yard is so good. There’s never a quiet time, and looking after horses is a 365-days a year responsibility, so it’s essential to have the backup, especially when things are really busy.”

As well as an ever-fluctuating number of horses, fivestar event rider and coach, Richard, and international dressage rider Victoria are also kept busy by their two children, eight-year old Florence and 10-year old Fred, both of whom have been indoctrinated into the joy – and the hard work and expense – of horses too!

Richard was born and raised in the area and has lived near South Luffenham for three decades. Victoria is from Sussex and has lived in Rutland for 20 years.

The couple’s gaze met and sparks flew over the manège whilst they were both competing.

It’s an important year for both Richard and Victoria, as the former prepares for his first major eventing fixture post-lockdown. Badminton takes place from 4th May to 8th May and Richard can’t wait to get back to the sport as his most coveted horse – the 15year old 17.1hh Irish gelding Alfie’s Clover – has lost two years of his career thanks to cancelled fixtures.

“The eventing season has been extended a bit over the past few years and now runs from roughly March to October. Richard’s favourite element of eventing is the cross-country, generally regarded as the ultimate test of both horse and rider’s abilities. As a rider, you have to be really skilled, possessing speed and accuracy.”

“Dressage, by contrast, is a discipline that looks easy, but the skill is make a great deal of effort look effortless. Like gymnastics, it’s very physical with lots

of demand on your core and lots of physical strength needed. But you also need great knowledge and a terrific bond with the horse too; lots of control as well as lots of energy.”

“Everything is very nuanced, very precise and very disciplined, so it’s a sport for a real perfectionist... I’m note sure if that reflects the different personalities that Richard and I have, but I do know that in dressage you have to have great harmony with the horse, and that’s part of the pleasure for me.”

“Any nerves you experience disappear before a show and once you’re in the arena, that good tension can be a real asset in retaining discipline, so there’s a very strong psychological constituent to competing in a dressage event too.”

At the moment, Victoria is riding Dirty Talk and Ray Ban, both seven year olds, and is gearing up for her next international show in 2023. The discipline of dressage tends to be more consistent in the number of fixtures throughout the year, albeit with summer fixtures outdoor and winter ones in arenas.

“What dressage and eventing to have in common, though, is that you have to pursue both with 1,000% determination if you want to succeed. We’re lucky because although we’re busy, we’ve a great team and our work never ceases to be an absolute pleasure!” n

Find Out More: Follow the achievements of Team Jones at www.teamjonesequestrian.com. Family Image: Deanne Ward Photography.

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Helping the area’s horses to put their best foot forward, farrier Stephen Hill has spent nearly 30 years among hot metal, bright sparks and heavy hammers.

This summer, Stephen is organising a farriery competition at Rutland’s County Show in memory of another talented young local farrier...

1,500°c temperatures, the violent crash of hammer against hot metal and the odd spark flying out from anvil. For nearly 30 years, Stephen Hill has loved every single second of life as a local farrier, despite the tremendous physical demands and energy the career demands.

Learning to Ride in Rutland

“I live in Rutland now but I was born and raised on the border of Northamptonshire & Cambridgeshire, attending a pre-apprenticeship course in Warwickshire.”

If you’re looking to learn to ride, we’ll direct you towards Stretton Riding Centre, the area’s BHS-affiliated centre for riding and jumping, call 01780 410323 or see www.bhs.org.uk.

“From 1994 to 1995,” says Stephen, “I was apprenticed to Steven Gowan in Soham and I qualified in 1998. I moved to Rutland 20 years ago with my wife Gemma, and for a number of years I had a forge at Belton.”

“Today, I’m entirely mobile, although I’m in the process of creating a stone building which I’m hoping will allow me to incorporate a permanent forge once more.”

Typically, Stephen shoes around 60 horses a week, assisted by Sam Green, who has worked with him since graduating from his apprenticeship with Stephen three years ago. Sam is now pursuing his higher exams too.

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“Traditionally Britain has had some of the best farriers in the world,” says Stephen.

“We’re not entirely sure what the horse population is in the UK, but it has been suggested that around 600,000 is a realistic figure. Happy hackers tend not to have their horses shows as they’re not subjected to such demanding condition, so the majority of my work is on eventing horses throughout the summer and hunters in the winter.”

“Shoeing a horse isn’t always essential, but there are three compelling reasons for harder-working horses to be shod; protection from overwear, correction of any issues with their feet and greater traction which in turn has implications for the safety of both the horse and rider.”

Once upon a time all shoes would be made on an entirely bespoke basis but today, the quality of machine-made shoes is so consistent that farriers can use them as a good starting point, perhaps with a little minor modification or the addition of a bar which can be incorporated.

As such, younger farriers have less experience of making shoes from scratch, but for more experienced farriers like Stephen, there’s nothing like the craft of creating a totally bespoke shoe for a horse.

Likewise, though mobile farriers enjoy the convenience of a gas-powered forge, there’s still something very romantic about the flames, and the scent of a coke-fired forge.

Stephen reckons that although these days a traditional permanent coke-fuelled forge is

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STEPHEN HILL FARRIER & BLACKSMITH

a luxury, it’s important for younger farriers and apprentices to learn on traditional fire.

Stephen, like many experienced farriers is hopeful that a traditional coke forge won’t become the preserve of craftspeople, and will remain a part of a working farrier’s life, but the heritage skill certainly still draws in a crowd. And so, at this year’s Rutland Show on Sunday 5th June, he is organising a demonstration of farriery and hosting a horseshoe-making competition in memory of young local farrier.

Over 40 farriers will be taking place, and the winner will be judged by James Holliday who has, himself, represented England in international competitions. n Farrier Stephen Hill is based at Belton, call 07970 920127 or see stephenhillfarrier.co.uk.

UK FARRIERS: The State of the Profession... n There are currently more than 2,900 farriers in the UK registered with the Worshipful Company of Farriers, the trade body which represents the profession. n The WCF was formed in the City of London in March 1356 (in the 30th year of the reign of Edward III) when the city’s mayor, Henry Pykard, wanted to crackdown on the city’s ‘bad’ farriers and deal with the damage they were causing to animals.

Pykard appointed two wardens to oversee the profession. n In 1975 the first Farriers Registration Act passed as law requiring all those in the profession to be registered with the Worshipful Company of Farriers. n Currently the WCF oversees training of farriers. There are 110 people across the UK currently engaged in training, 60 of which are engaged in a new qualification – the Farrier Standard – which will replace the old qualification. n It’s thought that fewer than 5% of UK farriers are women. n The qualification follows a four year apprenticeship and will yield letters after a farrier’s name; Dip WCF. After achieving a diploma, farriers can further their education by becoming an Associate and finally a Fellow of the WCF. n There are three colleges offering formal training; Myerscough College (Lancs), Warwickshire College and Herefordshire and Ludlow College.

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THE VILLAGE: COTTESMORE

Community Spirit in

COTTESMORE This month we’re enjoying a trip to Cottesmore, and as Vice Chairman of the Parish Council John Meara says, a sense of community is alive and well in Rutland’s largest village with lots of groups and one of the area’s largest barracks...

Lead Image: St Nicholas’ Church, Cottesmore.

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THE VILLAGE: COTTESMORE

“Right from the outset you could tell there was real community spirit in the village,” says John.

“We all try to stick together and support one another...”

It’s the largest village in Rutland – though its Kendrew population does swell its number by about a thousand – it covers a radius of about four miles, and it’s been the namesake of everything from Royal Navy minesweepers to schools in Sussex.

It is, of course, Cottesmore, and right from the outset, we’ll address the thorny issue of whether the village’s name should be pronounced Cott-smore or Cott-er-smoor.

“It’s not really a source of great controversy or anything,” says John Meara, “But it’s believed the name derives from Cott’s Moor, where the village’s hunt kennels were originally located, and which can be traced back to 1666.”

John moved to the village 20 years ago and has served on the village’s Parish Council for about 12 years. He reckons the village has 500 houses and a population of about 1,200, plus an additional thousand people who live on the Kendrew Barracks.

“Right from the outset you could tell there was real community spirit in the village,” says John. “By and large the village tries to stick together and support one another.

During the Pandemic, for example, Amanda and her team in the village shop really put themselves out, making doorstep deliveries to customers who were self-isolating.”

“The local pub, The Sun Inn, is a really nice place too, where the staff know your name and where you can enjoy Sunday lunch.”

“Another really nice aspect of Cottesmore is the range of activities you can join in with.

You can come into the village and just live quietly, but it’s such a nice community that you can’t help but become integrated into it, and there are so many groups. I’m a part of the local Ramblers society, and secretary of the Cottesmore Investment Club which is for people who want to find out more about

Above: A church, a shop, a pub and a chippy... what more could you want from a village?

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The village of Cottesmore, from the air.

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THE VILLAGE: COTTESMORE

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“Back in April 2021, the Parish Council leased some land locally and started to offer the opportunity for locals to rent one of 32 plots...”

making investments and among like-minded individuals. There’s the Cottesmore Wine Circle, too, and the Cottesmore Gardening Club, plus CHAG – the Cottesmore History and Archaeological Group, and of course groups like the WI.” “New to the village is its allotments. Back in April 2021, the Parish Council leased some land locally and started to offer the opportunity for locals to rent one of 32 plots.

We’ve been delighted with the uptake, with all but one of the plots occupied, so hopefully over the coming years there will be a glut of locally grown fruit and vegetables to enjoy!”

“Kendrew Barracks, opened on the site of RAF Cottesmore back in 2012. It’s home to the Royal Anglican Regiment and the Royal Logistic Corps. The village and the barracks has close links with one another, and they’re always on hand to help out with events like bonfire night, in which they’ll help to marshall crowds at our firework displays.”

“It’s a lovely village, a proper community and we’re very lucky not just in the way it looks, but the people, too, who make it such a wonderful place to live.” n Right: Colin Easson Motors with its Model T Ford circa 1921, and bellringing in the church.

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STAMFORD’S OLD SHOPS

Stamford remains a town which prides itself on both the health of – and the ongoing support for – its independent business. It’s also resolutely proud of its history.

Both came together online a year or two ago when a Facebook page curated by a familiar name in the town for many years!

Talking Shop L

ET’S BE FRANK, most local towns

and villages nowadays tend to have at least one Facebook page, usually curated by a long-suffering page admin who has to referee ongoing scuffles concerning bad parking, dog fouling, people asking questions like what time the supermarket opens or closes, why the air ambulance is flying overhead, who’s letting off fireworks and so on.

Such pages are usually a bit wild west in their content, but one local page concerning Stamford is different. Frank Newbon’s History of Stamford doesn’t feature the usual bickering, and instead chooses to celebrate the town of Stamford in all its pictorial glory as a repository for old photographs of the town, its architecture, old buildings, businesses and people.

It’s a glorious page, and though the curator of the site chooses to remain anonymous, its popularity is inarguable; it’s just about to gain its 7,000th member.

All well and good, but simply creating a page for local images and history still wasn’t good enough for Frank Newbon and his friends.

Those who most affectionately champion the site wanted to give even more to the town than just a way to celebrate its history, and have started a campaign to raise £25,000 for a new outdoor gym on the town’s recreation area on the site of the old bowling green.

The curator of the page reckons that ‘people power’ can be a real force for good, and having seen the outdoor gym equipment at Rutland Water, and seen a debate on the page to the effect that the old bowling green site hasn’t been used for decades, suggested a crowdfunding venture to have the gym created.

The project is likely to cost £25,000 and already over £10,046 of that has been raised. A recent donation by Waitrose has swelled the coffers too. Donations can be made by searching for Frank Newbon's Outdoor Gym at www.crowdfunder.co.uk, or by emailing community@franknewbon.com.

Meanwhile, as Frank Newbon was an established businessman in the town with a shop at 50 Broad Street, we though we’d share a few other pictures of old shops and businesses in the town... >>

Images: Frank Newbon’s History of Stamford on Facebook.

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2

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FRANK NEWBON’S HISTORY OF STAMFORD

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4

5

7 6 8

1. A few young chaps hanging around on Ironmonger Street, c.1910.

2. H Pettifer ironmonger and gunsmith.

3. Stamford Hotel was formerly known as The Black Bull until 1810. The Tories would meet in the George, whilst Whigs would meet here. Where Rubirox now stands is Wilcock, an ironmonger and seller of motor spirit!

4. Stamford drapers Oates & Musson.

5. Stamford High Street circa 1900s.

6. Gunton & Son jewellers.

7. Fancourt motor engineers, a dealership for BS bikes.

8. Hard at work at the Pick motor works.

>>

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FRANK NEWBON’S HISTORY OF STAMFORD

9. Red Lion Square c.1920.

10. High Street, unknown date.

11. Loewes & Son, wine and spirit merchants with their dray horse.

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Meet Frank Newbon...

Namesake of local history group, 1892-1975 Who was Frank Newbon? Frank was actually an apprentice shoe maker who worked for Henry Deer in his shop of Stamford’s Water Street. He started his own boot making business in 1911 on Broad Street and lived in the premises upstairs with his mother and sister. Enlisting into the First World War, as a Private in the 2/5 Lincolnshire Regiment, Frank went back to making boots when he was demobbed and kept the business going until his retirement in 1961.

Frank married childhood sweetheart Edith Kate Smith and had a daughter called Audrey. n

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7 JUL – 14 AUG

NEW UK PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR NIKOLAI

FOSTER

CHOREOGRAPHER LUCY

CASTING DIRECTOR KA AYY MAGSON

CDG

HIND

DESIGNER MICHAEL

CHILDREN’S CASTING DIRECTOR JO

TAAYYLOR HAWES CDG

LIGHTING DESIGNER BEN

CRACKNELL Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International: www.mtishows.co.uk

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KILWORTH HOUSE HOTEL

Enjoy Spring at KILWORTH HOUSE Aside from great dining, wonderful live performances and beautiful accommodation, there’s one pre-eminent reason to enjoy a visit to Kilworth House this spring: the fact that this stunning Victorian country house hotel offers a very warm welcome to its guests!

Words: Rob Davis.

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“We did have to postpone the past two seasons Theatre programmes, limit bookings and reduce services, which we did with a very heavy heart, but it was the responsible course of action.”

WARMER WEATHER, blue skies and that entirely unmistakable sense that spring has finally arrived. This year especially there’s a feeling that it’s time to get out and about to enjoy ourselves once again, hence an unequivocal recommendation of a visit to Kilworth House.

More than just a country house hotel, Kilworth House also launched its theatre in 2007 and now provides not only first class dining and comfortable accommodation but also a whole season of live events to turn your visit into a thoroughly enjoyable day or evening of superb entertainment.

“The last two years have certainly been challenging, however we have managed to get through them, opening when rules allowed, adhering to guidance and adapting where necessary,” say the hotel’s Sarah Johnston.

However, we are now fully open across all services, and this spring, we will reopen our outdoor theatre as we did prior to Covid, we are extremely excited to do this and are looking forward to welcoming back guests!”

Carousel and Half a Sixpence...

Main: The Orangery dining room.

Above: Kilworth’s beautiful interiors.

“In particular we’re beginning our theatre season with a Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, Carousel, a love story set in 19th century New England with its iconic showtune ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone.’ Carousel will be performed from 24th May into July, and it’ll be just the kind of heart-warming, energetic show for which Kilworth House is renowned! >> 51

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KILWORTH HOUSE HOTEL & THEATRE

>> In July and August, we’re also presenting Half a Sixpence by arrangement with Cameron Mackintosh and featuring Great British mirth, some colourful costumes and its eponymous song.”

“Later in Spring we’ll also unveil the 2022 programme for our Live at Kilworth season, which offers everything a series of musical performances culminating in our Last Night of the Proms celebration.”

“The auditorium is a 550-seat open air-theatre, but it’s covered over so it’s both weather proof, but well-ventilated too. It really is a stunning looking venue and has its own bar and restaurant in the form of The Staging Post, our luxurious log cabin.”

Making Your Visit Special...

“To make their visit to the theatre extra special, many people take advantage of our pre-theatre dining or our theatre breaks which offer accommodation too.”

Kilworth House

Hotel & Theatre

Set in 38-acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, this Grade II listed former country residence was built in 1888 and renovated between 1999 and 2003 by “Others choose to bring a Celia and Richard Mackay, picnic and enjoy opening before reopening as a hotel. their hamper adjacent to the

theatre, on the tables and chairs in the leafy area we’ve set aside for guests.”

Exceptional Dining...

“Our Head Chef is Max Faulkner, and his brasserie menu is served in the hotel’s Victorian Orangery. All of his dishes are superbly presented and absolutely delicious, reflecting the talent and flair of a really creative brigade. As well as brasserie dining Kilworth House offers traditional afternoon tea options and we’ve a number of private dining rooms – Wordsworth, Shakespeare and Byron for example – to host your private celebration in style. We offer an exceptional Sunday lunch too, with local sirloin of beef and all of the trimmings.

Special Occasions...

“This month we’re providing a three-course Mother’s Day Lunch on Sunday 27th March with chocolate gifts for mum, as well as our Come Dine with Me evening, on Thursday

7th April which will see Max prepare a stunning three-course seasonal menu, and share some of his culinary secrets, providing an insight into life in the kitchen. It’s aways an awe-inspiring evening, a chance to learn from the very best, and it adds an extra dimension to the pleasure of dining out!”

Accommodation...

“Whether you’re enjoying visiting the area or enjoying a theatre break, our rooms are all beautifully appointed, some with four-poster beds and beautiful views over the parkland.

Waking up in the luxury of Kilworth House always feels special! n

Above: Kilworth House this month presents Carousel and Half a Sixpence. Pictured is a previous production, Cats.

Right: One of Kilworth House’s 44 bedrooms, each of which are beautifully appointed.

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KILWORTH HOUSE

HOTEL & THEATRE EVENTS n Sunday 27th March:

MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH

From 12noon-1.30pm in the Orangery Restaurant. A gift of chocolates will be provided for every mother. Three course lunch, coffee and petit fours £45 per adult, £15.50 per child under 12 from the children’s menu. n Thursday 7th April:

COME DINE WITH ME

An opportunity to get a close-up insight of the culinary techniques and tips used in the preparation of a three course dinner at Kilworth House. Each evening has a seasonal theme and you will receive recipe cards for each of the three courses demonstrated as well as the chance to share with Max his passion for creative gastronomy. n Thursday 5th May:

GIN DINNER

Arrive for a gin cocktail to start your evening before a three course meal.

A gin producer will join us for the evening and share with you some of their knowledge and gin expertise. Three course dinner £50 per person, to include a gin cocktail and canapés. n Monday 2nd May:

PLATINUM CELEBRATION TEA

Celebrate with us...

Say “I Do!” at Kilworth House Naturally Kilworth House has a civil wedding licence and can host weddings in the light and vibrant Orangery with capacity for 130 guests, the Wordsworth Room with its 40 guest capacity, the Shakespeare room for 20 guests and The Cellar Bar with its quirky and less formal feel for up to 130 guests. The Staging Post can also host weddings adjacent to the theatre and exclusive use of Kilworth House is also available. The hotel is a stunning backdrop to your wedding, whilst 44 bedrooms and private dining rooms provide flexible and elegant spaces for the bride, groom and for your dedicated wedding planner to help you create a truly special day. n

Mark Her Majesty The Queen becoming the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee. Kilworth House will host a specially-themed afternoon tea. n 24th May – 3rd July:

CAROUSEL

Live musical theatre in Kilworth House’s open-air theatre, enjoy the show, bring a picnic or take advantage of dinner and overnight accommodation packages. n 19th July – 28th August:

HALF A SIXPENCE

Live musical theatre in Kilworth House’s open-air theatre, enjoy the show, bring a picnic or take advantage of dinner and overnight accommodation packages.

For information on all of the above events and about dining or accommodation at Kilworth House, see kilworthhouse.co.uk, or call 01858 880058. The hotel and theatre is located at North Kilworth Leicestershire LE17 6JE.

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On...

STAMFORD

EVENTS RUNNING THROUGHOUT APRIL

LEICESTER

SATURDAY 2nd SATURDAY 9th APRIL

ENJOY SPRING AT BURGHLEY HOUSE

AKRAM KHAN’S JUNGLE BOOK: REIMAGINED A magical dance retelling of Kipling’s family classic. In a near future world, a family is torn apart as they escape their homeland ravaged by the impact of climate change.

Alone in a deserted modern city, and with wild animals claiming the streets as their own, a lone child soon discovers unlikely allies. In Akram Khan’s theatre production based on the original story of Rudyard Kipling’s much-loved family classic, the journey of Mowgli is seen through the eyes of a climate refugee. n Curve Theatre, Leicestershire, LE1 1SB, call 0116 242 3595, www.curveonline.co.uk.

Enjoy Vivaldi by Candlelight

A ROMANTIC CANDLELIT EXPERIENCE! CLASSICAL MUSIC FROM THE BAROQUE PERIOD IN A GORGEOUS SETTING...

PETERBOROUGH

FRIDAY 1st APRIL

VIVALDI BY CANDLELIGHT AT PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL If you enjoy classical music greats from the baroque period in a gorgeous setting, then this is the concert for you!

The London Concertante has its audience laughing at jokes, gasping at virtuosity, moved by gorgeous string playing, and ensures they leave with a smile on their faces. n Tickets £24-£24, from 7.30pm, call 01733 355315, www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

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There’s plenty to enjoy at Burghley House this spring, starting with a fun event for the whole family! l Beastly Boring Burghley from 4th April is a series of fun tours for children with costumed tour guides. l The estate’s South Gardens will also open on 9th and 10th April for the NGS, affording magnificent displays of narcissi and spring bulbs. l Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April sees fresh food and local produce at the first of this year’s Burghley House Fine Food Markets to be held in the Chestnut and Stable Courtyards. l Meanwhile on 17th April, the estate will host its Burghley Easter Egg Hunt in the Sculpture Gardens. n See www.burghley.co.uk.

STAMFORD

TUESDAY 5th APRIL

EASTER IN ART A beautifully crafted film explores the Easter story as depicted in art, from the time of the early Christians to the present day. Shot on location in Jerusalem, United States and throughout Europe, the film explores the different ways artists have depicted the Easter story through the ages. n Stamford Arts Centre, see www.stamfordartscentre.com.

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

BOURNE

FROM SUNDAY 3rd APRIL

GRIMSTHORPE CASTLE OPENS

Bourne’s Grimsthorpe Castle opens for the season this month, with the castle, its parkland and formal gardens all to explore. n See www.grimsthorpe.co.uk, Bourne, PE10 0LY. Call 01778 591205.

STAMFORD

THURSDAY 7th APRIL DEEPINGS

27th APRIL - 1st MAY

THE 2022 DEEPINGS LITERARY FESTIVAL

Jackie Weaver does have authority here... as one of the guests at this year’s Deepings Literary Festival. Jackie appears at The Granary from 2.30pm on Saturday 30th April.

Other festival highlights include the Sunday Times bestselling author Louise Candlish at Molecey Mill

discussing her career as an author of crime thrillers, plus Pam Rhodes at Priory Church discussing her new trilogy Hope Hall. Lincolnshire-born author Christina James also appears at Oddfellows Hall to tell her audience why she chose our area to base her series of crime novels starring DI Yates. n See deepingsliteraryfestival.co.uk for the festival’s full programme plus venues, dates and times.

From Easter to the 1940s...

BELVOIR CASTLE HAS REVELED ITS SPRING AND SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS, STARTING THIS MONTH!

DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE Fun for the whole family with a world of living, breathing, lifelike dinosaurs. An awe-inspiring show to captivate both young and young at heart, immersing audiences in an enthralling and realistic world of dinosaurs. n Tickets £14, from 2pm and 4pm. Stamford Corn Exchange, call 01780 766455.

GRANTHAM

FRIDAY 1st to MONDAY 18th APRIL

BELVOIR CASTLE’S EASTER ACTIVITY TRAIL FOR FAMILIES Journey through Belvoir’s formal gardens, solving Easter activity puzzles along the way.

You may even bump into the Easter bunny and his friends as you travel around the colourful trail.

Ramble amongst the displays of spring blooms, from daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, primrose and camelias as you explore these historic grounds.

PETERBOROUGH

FRIDAY 22nd APRIL – SUNDAY 24th APRIL

THE NATIONAL MOTORHOME & CAMPERVAN SHOW With caravans and motorhomes very much sought-after with a boom in staycations over the past couple of years, exhibitors at the National Motorhome and Campervan show are looking forward to their national show at the East of England Arena this month.

The latest vans, accessories, electric bikes, outdoor clothing and camping equipment will all make your spring getaway really successful. Elsewhere, 1980s stars Sonia, Go West and T’Pau will all provide live entertainment. n East of England Showground, Peterborough PE2 6XE, see www.eastofenglandarena.com.

Once you have completed the outdoor trail, each child can collect an Easter egg prize at the end of their visit.

Then, before you leave, make sure to pay a visit to the charming shopping village, Engine Yard, where you can find a wonderful collection of independent shops, stocking artisan foods, boutique clothing, glamorous homeware, gifts, garden supplies and more.

Then, on 28th/29th May, Belvoir will also host its 1940s weekend with lots of retro fun. n For all of Belvoir Castle’s spring and summer events, see www.belvoircastle.com.

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WINE, DINE & RELAX

E N J OY S O M E O F L I N C O L N S H I R E S FINEST DINING Indulge in AA Rosette Dining, o r r e l a x w i t h A f t e r n o o n Te a a n d a G & T o n t h e Te r r a c e ove r l o o k i n g o u r s t u n n i n g aw a r d - w i n n i n g Pe t o g a r d e n s . Pe t wo o d i s t h e p e r fe c t l o c a t i o n fo r c e l e b r a t i o n s , commemorations and making memories that last.

F O R F U RT H E R I N F O R M AT I O N Call us on 01526 352411 or e m a i l h e l l o @ p e t wo o d . c o. u k

PETWOOD HOTEL STIXWOULD ROAD, WOODHALL SPA, LINCOLNSHIRE LN10 6QG WWW.PETWOOD.CO.UK/BOOK-A-TABLE

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AA ROSETTE AWARD

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THE SIX BELLS, WITHAM ON THE HILL

RINGING the CHANGES An epic village pub restaurant that’s family run, now with second generation restauranteurs at the helm.

This month we’re enjoying the hospitality of The Six Bells at Witham on the Hill where siblings James & Lauren are ringing the changes, having taken over from parents Jim & Sharon Trevor...

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Barney Staniland, bgsphotography.co.uk.

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DINING OUT AT THE SIX BELLS, WITHAM ON THE HILL

HELL’S BELLS! The Six Bells beats seven bells out of pretty much every pub restaurant in the area. Phenomenally lovely people, super dining, and a great setting... rubbish weather, though.

The present Mrs Davis expressed frustration at my apparent complacency towards Storm Eunice when I insisted on keeping our dining out appointment at Witham on the Hill’s best-in-class pub restaurant. Some people’s glass is half-full. Others have a halfempty glass. My wife’s glass, though, is completely empty, it has just fallen of a cliff and it is now on fire. Typically I dismiss all of her misgivings with self-assured machismo (“It’ll be fine...” will probably be the last words I ever speak before meeting a comical end).

But on this occasion, she might have had a point.

The winds were blowing around the Grade II listed Edwardian pub restaurant upon my arrival, and there was something of an air of armageddon with the vortices, driving rain and grim skies.

Hopefully it’ll be much calmer, much warmer and much brighter as you read this. If it is, and you’re ready to venture out and enjoy spring dining, we’ve a hell of a recommendation for you, here.

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The Six Bells is home to the Trevor family, not to mention a place of work and an immense source of pride. Jim & Sharon Trevor took over The Jackson Stops in Stretton in 2000 and ran it until 2006. they latterly founded Stamford’s Jim’s Yard and Jim’s Bistro, plus The Beehive.

Son James pursued an economics degree in the US and worked in the three-Michelin star Alinea before returning to the UK to work with his sister Lauren, when the two siblings took on The Queen’s Head at Bulwick.

The family consolidated their businesses into The Six Bells so that James and Lauren could gradually take on the day-to-day running of the restaurant, and whilst all family members remain keenly involved, from Autumn 2021, the second generation’s influence on the business became more apparent.

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James and Lauren worked with Head Chef Ben Poulton to create new menus, they curated a new wine list, and they rebranded the place.

Lauren has also welcomed into the world the third generation of Trevor dynasty which should be useful if they’re short of a potwash in, oooh, 16 years or so.

There’s a single menu with seven starters, six main courses plus three ‘take them off the menu and the punters will mutiny’ classics; fish ‘n’ chips, bangers ‘n’ mash, confit duck leg.

In one corner of the pub is a traditional stone pizza oven for the pub restaurant’s provision of Napoli-style pizzas. Fired by wood, the dry residual heat from the oven is also used to roast sirloins of beef and joints of pork for Sunday lunch service.

The place also has a rotisserie, which in the summer month sits just outside the entrance

enticing customers in. And, as someone who adores French cooking with all of its cream and butter and naughtiness, I’m personally thrilled to note an auberge menu every Monday, with three dishes for a tout petite £19; pressed ham hock, Bœuf Bourguignon and Chocolate Nemesis? C’est magnifique!

Joyously, everything at The Six Bells is made in-house. The pub restaurant’s eight-grain bread, for example, is baked daily, with a little extra for customers to purchase and take home. Chutneys, sauces, desserts, ice creams and sorbets are made by the brigade of five chefs, and even the truffles and petit fours served with coffee are homemade.

Local suppliers are used where possible, with venison from Grimsthorpe and Duck, Woodcock, and Rabbit all shot within a mile or so of the restaurant. >>

MEET THE CHEF BEN POULTON, HEAD CHEF History: “I’m from Oakham and after some years working in London, returned to the area about 10 years ago. I love the availability of local ingredients here!”

Food Heaven: “Local game!”

Food Hell: “Fast food.”

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DINING OUT AT THE SIX BELLS, WITHAM ON THE HILL

on the MENU APPEARING ON THE SIX BELLS’ À LA CARTE MENU

Starters Chicken & Smoked Ham Hock Terrine with Homemade Piccalilli £8 Jim’s Chicken Liver Parfait £8.

Portland Crab Macaroni with Créme Fraîche, Chilli, Lemon, Dill & Aged Parmesan £11.50 Main Courses Crispy Free Range Pork Belly Braised Cheek, Savoy Cabbage, Mash & Cider Sauce £18.50 Honey Glazed Breast of Duck, Crispy Anna Potatoes, Glazed Carrots & Five-Spice Sauce £19.50 Classics >> Asparagus and strawberries from farms near Rutland Water will make their presence known on spring and summer menus, whilst a specialist fish supplier provides diver-caught scallops, cornish monkfish and so on.

James and Lauren’s new wine menu has been produced in association with Enotria, and provides a choice of 11 white, 11 red and 11 rosé options, plus six fine wine options

OPENING TIMES Lunchtime: 12 noon to 2pm, Mon-Sat. Evening: 6pm-9pm, Mon-Sat. Sunday: 12 noon until 5pm, 6-9pm Five bedrooms available too.

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topping out at £90 and including very fine Montrachet or Châteauneuf-Du-Pape.

Jim & Sharon’s pedigree in local hospitality is immensely strong, and as soon as they were old enough to wash pots and run a hoover round the restaurant, James and Lauren too were conscripted into hospitality, eventually working in the kitchen, and at front of house.

With James and Lauren’s ascension from potwash to proprietors too, the whole family must now be the most talented, and experienced restauranteurs in the area, and as an added bonus, they’re thoroughly lovely people as well.

Looking for somewhere to dine this spring?

Look no further. The Six Bells is an absolutely epic recommendation! n

Grimsthorpe Estate Venison Ragu with Garlic Mash £15 Desserts Chocolate Nemesis, Crème Fraiche, £7.50.

Wood Oven Baked Lemon Tart, Raspberry Sorbet £7.50.

Chocolates & Petits Fours £6 NB: Menu items subject to change.

n The Six Bells is based at Witham on the Hill, Bourne, PE10 0JH. Call 01778 590360 or see www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.

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The Finch’s Arms, Oakham Road, Hambleton Peninsula, Rutland, LE15 8TL 55543210/.-,/41+4*)((((('(&2%+$3210/.-,/41+4*) T 01572 756575((((#2/".!-., ($"0 -+ - * 1+, .2

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In the KITCHEN St George’s Day on 23rd April represents the start of asparagus season, and we can think of few better ways to enjoy proper English asparagus than in this Mediterranean-themed dish...

CHARGRILLED TOMATO TABBOULEH WITH SPRING VEG Preparation Time: 20 minutes. Cooking Time: 25 minutes. Serves: 2.

• 120g bulgur wheat • 1 Knorr’s Paprika & Sundried Tomato Stock Pot • 230g English asparagus, trimmed • 200g baby courgettes, halved lengthways • 6 Chargrilled Tomatoes, roughly chopped (plus 1 tbsp of oil) • 1⁄2 lemon, juice • 1⁄4 tsp ground allspice 2 salad onions, finely sliced • 1⁄2 x 25g pack flat leaf parsley, leaves finely chopped • 1⁄2 x 25g mint, leaves finely shredded Rinse the bulgur wheat well in several changes of cold water; put in a saucepan.

In a jug, mix the stock pot with 500ml just-boiled water and pour over the bulgur wheat.

Bring to the boil, cover with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes,until tender. Drain off any excess liquid and spread the bulgur wheat out on a plate to steam dry for 10 minutes.

While the bulgur wheat is cooling, put a griddle pan over a high heat. Toss the asparagus and courgettes with 1 tbsp oil from the jar of chargrilled tomatoes. Cook on the griddle for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender (you may need to do this in batches); season.

In a mixing bowl, combine the chargrilled tomatoes, lemon juice and allspice. Stir in the cooled bulgur wheat, salad onions and herbs. Divide between plates and top with the asparagus and courgettes.

You could keep this recipe vegan, or add some slices of griddled halloumi cheese for a vegetarian option. n Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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In the KITCHEN What could be better this Easter than a special grown-up treat in the form of these warming ginger truffles...?

CHOCOLATE GINGER TRUFFLES Preparation Time: 25 minutes + overnight chilling. Cooking Time: 5 minutes. Makes: about 20.

• 180g bar Belgian dark chocolate (54% cocoa) • 180ml double cream • 30g unsalted butter • 2 1⁄2 tbsp The King’s Ginger liqueur • 30g crystallised ginger, very finely chopped (optional) 2-3 tbsp cocoa powder • Gold Lustre Spray, to decorate

Chop the chocolate as finely as you can and put in a large bowl. Put 130ml cream and the butter in a saucepan and heat until the butter has melted and the mixture is at steaming point. Pour over the chocolate and leave for 2 minutes.

Stir to combine the chocolate and cream until all the chocolate is melted. Stir in the remaining 50ml cream, a pinch of fine salt and the liqueur. Pour into a large, shallow container and, if using, scatter the crystallised ginger on top. Cover and chill for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight.

Sift the cocoa powder onto a plate. Use a tablespoon to scoop balls of the truffle mixture and roll them in your hands to shape them. Roll in the cocoa powder, then arrange on a plate. Continue rolling until all the mixture has been used (pop it in the fridge if it softens too much), then spray with the gold lustre and chill for at least 30 minutes until ready to serve. These will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. n

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

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Wine of the Month

Bottega Gianduia Chocolate Liqueur A must for all chocolate lovers, this Gianduia cream chocolate liqueur combines hazelnut cream and premium grappa spirit to produce a smooth luxurious drink...

Jim Barry McRae Wood Shiraz 2014, Clare Valley £34.99 / 75cl / 14% ABV

Bottega Gianduia is a chocolate and hazelnut flavoured liqueur created using grappa, Italy’s native style of pomace brandy. The sweet and creamy taste is reminiscent of gianduia, a traditional chocolate and hazelnut spread originating in Piedmont. It is excellent served chilled as an after-dinner drink and makes a delicious cocktail ingredient, but you can also slather it over very good ice cream or a rich chocolate pudding. n

The late Jim Barry was a godfather of Australian wines. His estate is now in the hands of his grandson, Tom, and was named Winery of the Year 2020 by Australia’s leading wine critic, James Halliday. This wine is made from grapes declassified from one of Jim’s finest vineyards, The Armagh, where bottles usually command over £100. This has been the choice of some of the most prestigious Michelin-star restaurants since the first vintage. It has aromas of red and black fruits and flavours of dark berries, with savoury spice.

An excellent choice for intensely-flavoured spring lamb dishes.

Available from majestic.co.uk. n

£15.80 / 50cl / 17% ABV, See www.drinkfinder.co.uk.

The Wine Cellar AS IT’S EASTER, WE THOUGHT WE’D GO LOCO FOR COCOA WITH A SELECTION OF CHOCOLATE-THEMED TIPPLES TO COMPLEMENT YOUR EASTER EGGS OR PROVIDE A TREAT!

RAISING THE BAR: THREE WINES FOR WHITE, MILK AND DARK CHOCOLATE...

1. With white chocolate, try this Schloss Johannisberger Riesling Grunlack Spätlese.

Outstanding bouquet with white peach, fresh pineapple, green apple, nettle and sorrel, £42 / 75cl / 8.50% ABV.

2. With milk chocolate, we recommend this Premier Cru example of Bouchard Beaune du Château Rouge. Perfumed and harmonious with soft red fruit flavours, well integrated oak with great potential for laying it down, £32.99 / 75cl / 13.50% ABV. 3. Yalumba is a perfect match for dark chocolate, a signature Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz.

A brooding, serious and dark red wine of immense power and great concentration, £33.99 / 75cl / 14.50% ABV.

Totally topical, with no alcohol...

Caleño Dark & Spicy is a non-alcoholic spirit inspired by Colombia and distilled with joy. A rich blend of pineapple, coconut, ginger, black cardamom, vanilla, kola nut & lime.

Low calories, and sugar, allergen, sweetener and gluten-free, suitable for vegetarians.

Six ingredients are joyfully distilled, harnessing complex tropical, dark and spicy flavours from within. A distilled non-alcoholic spirit inspired by sundrenched beaches £16 / 50cl / 0% ABV.

n Our featured wines are available from

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

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HOMES & INTERIORS

PERFECTLY

PRIVATE The superbly located Barnett’s Farm based in Egleton is a family home close to Oakham, with privacy assured thanks to its walled garden. With plenty of space and lots of character, it’s this month’s featured property...

Words: Chloe Watson.

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PROPERTY

THE DETAILS

Barnett’s Farm, Egleton, Rutland Location: Egleton village.

Description: A stone farmhouse, formerly part of the Burley on the Hill estate, Grade II listed, mostly C17th and Victorian in origin.

Rooms: Four reception currently arranged as drawing room and dining room, living room, sitting room and breakfast room.

Six bedrooms, two en suites, large family bathroom.

Guide Price: £1,595,000.

Find Out More: Savills, High Street St Martin’s, PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com.

ISN’T IT NICE to have a little space in which to relax and feel cosy?

Happily, this month’s featured property affords just such an opportunity, located not only in the pretty village of Egleton, but with a walled garden and lots of verdant greenery, affording its owners privacy and a sense of cosiness despite its size and its provision of no less than 4,500sqft of living space.

Barnett’s Farm is a beautiful stone farmhouse situated in a quintessentially Rutland conservation village, just a short walk from Rutland Water. Egleton is, of course, also less than two miles from Oakham so the property really is a country property nice and close to civilisation – schools, shops, cafés and restaurants.

The house was originally part of the Burley on the Hill estate, and it’s a very attractive Grade II listed property dating back to the C17 with Victorian additions. The property offers six bedrooms and four reception rooms, and it was, at one time, one of the largest farms in the area.

Main: Barnett’s Farm is located within a walled garden in the leafy village of Egleton, and has four reception rooms plus six bedrooms. Mostly 1650s in origin, it was extended in the Victorian era and now carries a Grade II listing...

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Barnett’s Farm has been home to its current owners Susan & Philip Radburn and their children for the last 23 years.

has both foundations and services in place and all consents are still valid.

Having grown up locally and having previously owned a cottage in Rutland, the couple latterly moved from London into the countryside in order to be closer to family.

The property benefits from three reception rooms and a large kitchen with integrated appliances which leads into a breakfast room with a four-oven Aga and views over the landscaped garden.

Susan & Philip were drawn to the property for many reasons, not least among which are its history, the unspoilt village location, good transport links and the house’s warm and welcoming feel.

To the first floor is a family bathroom with roll-top bath and four large double bedrooms with the principal having a shower room. To the second floor are two further bedrooms and spacious bathroom.

During their ownership of the property Susan & Philip have made many improvements to the property to include rewiring, plumbing, heating, upgrading bathrooms, kitchen and roof. The house is Grade II listed and they have obtained consent for a number of alterations and for a three bedroomed traditional stone cottage which

As the oldest parts of Barnett’s Farm date back to the 1650s it has many charming features to include lovely oak beams whilst the main sitting room is in the Victorian wing with high ceilings and elaborate cornices. Its architecture has been unspoilt by the tasteful neutral shades of white the couple have used throughout. >> 71

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PROPERTY

>> The main sitting room also benefits from a fire within a marble fireplace and French windows lead out to a large south facing patio area. The property can be approached by both the north and south sides. To the south is a large, gravelled driveway giving access to the garage and stables and to the north via double gates.

There are several areas which open to the enclosed and secure gardens which have been landscaped providing a beautiful setting for entertaining and a safe place for children to play.

An orchard at the rear of the property giving views over open fields furthermore make this an ideal place to relax. Susan & Philip admit leaving their stunning home is a hard decision but say: “Now our children have grown up and finished their education, we have decided to take on a new project.”

The property is being marketed by James Abbott of Savills, who says: “There’s a sense of space and high ceilings, it’s a fabulous period home, with delightful gardens, the versatility of brick garage and stables and planning for a secondary cottage. Close to Rutland Water and the on the edge of the Egleton Nature Reserve, this is a tranquil and beautiful setting and one I love!” n 72

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n River’s Edge, Great Casterton Offers in excess of £950,000

An immaculate brand new executive home just a couple of miles north of Stamford arranged over three floors with four receptions (living kitchen, garden room, snug, living room) and six bedrooms.

Stunning and low maintenance! www.fineandcountry.com

n Ilston on the Hill, Harborough Guide Price: £1,000,000

A spectacularly remodelled renovated and considerably extended home in a small rural village on a large plot.

Comprises four bedrooms plus three receptions, currently arranged as living kitchen, sitting room and dining room. www.jamessellicks.com

n Market Overton, Rutland Guide Price: £695,000

Charming mid-19th century detached stone cottage on a large plot with views over the village cricket ground to the rear.

Five bedrooms and two bathrooms plus three reception rooms. www.murrayestateagents.co.uk

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Unique and beautiful audio visual systems WE MAKE TECHNOLOGY SIMPLE

Working with home owners and interior designers to design and install easy to use home technology CINEMA ROOMS MULTI-ROOM AUDIO SYSTEMS INTELLIGENT LIGHTING ULTRA-HD VIDEO DISTRIBUTION BESPOKE SYSTEM DESIGN

THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk www.qksstamford.co.uk

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer and Neff Master Partner

01733 246 907 www.darkeav.co.uk

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RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL MARINE 74

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HOME FURNISHINGS

SKY BLUE

THINKING With spring comes blue skies, and in your home, the same hue can create a cool, relaxing vibe, especially when used with tactile, high quality fabrics in bespoke furnishings from the area’s leading interior design specialists...

This Page: Bespoke chairs in Lipari, ocean colourway. Avebury chairs £1,390, William Yeoward.

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The area’s independent interior designers can provide bespoke soft furnishings using our featured fabrics to create bespoke luxury for your home...

Top: Tanjina console table in indigo £1,375, Pebble rug in woad colourway, 250cm x 350cm £2,350.

Above/Right: Chair in Perzina midnight colourway.

Right: Kiva cushion in indigo (front), Wreyland and Cleves in rouge, £82, £100.

All William Yeoward.

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Curtains in Bandha, ocean colourway, sofa in Nizhoni in peacock colourway and Malia in indigo.

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Tanjina console table in midnight jade £1,375, Laurita table lamp in cloud £395.

Stamford & Rutland Interiors: Broughtons: Leicester, 0116 2341888,www.broughtons.com.

Delcor Interiors: Stamford, 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk. Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors: Oakham, 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. Hunters of Stamford: 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

Sarah Harding Interiors: Uppingham, 01572 823389, sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

Simply Stamford: St Mary’s Street, Stamford, 01780 481852, www.simplystamford.co.uk.

Please note availability of brands and ranges at the above design studios subject to variation.

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Visi Vi sit i us in sto tore!

Woorld famous Harriss Tweed and the finest italian leather sofas and armchairs.

71-7 75 High St, Thrapston, NN14 4JJ

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Beautiful hand-picked quality home décor, with inspiring timeless pieces which will add a touch of luxury to every home, our shop is right in the heart of Stamford on St Mary’s Street MIRRORS, LIGHTING, HOME FRAGRANCE, BEAUTY & BODY, HOME ACCESSORIES, VASES & JUGS, KITCHENWARE, BARWARE, GIFTS AND MORE...

Visit us at 2 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DE Call 01780 481852 or shop online at

www.simplystamford.co.uk Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

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Fresh Patterns for your Home We love prints that are fresh and lively at the same time.

The Tivoli fabric seen here is on display in our newly re-vamped showroom so call in to browse furniture, home accessories and the latest pattern books, then treat yourself to a relaxing coffee break at the Hayloft.

Showroom and Coffee Shop Open Monday to Saturday 9am-4.30pm

The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD

Call 01780 757946 info@huntersinteriors.co.uk www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Photo courtesy of Osborne & Little.

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goldingyoung.com 80

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Royal Doulton Pacific Dinnerware Set, Splash, 16 Pieces, £170.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Rangemaster

Leckford 90cm electric range cooker, stone blue, £2,769.

Kitchen Aid

Mix and blend set in ink blue, £763.

Bronte by Moon

Bronte by Moon herringbone throw, in navy, £95.

BLUE is the

COLOUR

De'Longhi

From cobalt to inky blue, this month we’re injecting a shade or two of lovely blue into your home...

Dedica traditional coffee machine, in cobalt blue, £249.99.

All products featured here are available www.johnlewis.com.

Tefal

John Lewis & Partners

Pro Express Ultimate steam generator iron, in blue, £349.99.

Shiomi Rug, 180 x 120 cm, £500 - £1,000.

LotusGrill

Portable smokeless charcoal barbecue, 32cm, blue, £165.

Ivyline

Outdoor Elite Cube LED light garden water feature, in cement, £299.99.

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Est. 2000

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SALES - CLEANING - RESTORA AT TION - BESPOKE 39594 01780 23 h l h gstudio.co.uk d k rachel@therug www.therugsstudio.co.uk Stamford PE9 - Holt NR25 - London TW1 Stamford Open Mon - Fri 10 0 - 1 or by appointment

High Quality Contemporary & Traditional Kitchens by Symphony Appliances from Neff, Indesit and Smeg

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Pillings Rd, Oakham LE15 6QF 01572 490790 • williamhercock.co.uk Also in Melton Mowbray and Birstall • Established 1899

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FORAS FOR YOUR GARDEN

A World of Wonder This month we’ve a selection of stunning water features, seating, sculptures and planters from Foras. Based in Stowbridge, Norfolk, the business is a destination shopping experience arranged over 10,000m2...

Purchase online or visit Foras on West Head Road, Stowbridge PE34 3NJ. Call 01366 381069 or see www.foras.co.uk.

BLISS water features are carved from solid natural rainbow sandstone, available in a range of single sizes or even a trio.

Elegantly cascading water coats the feature enhancing the magnificent striations of the stone.

n Kit from £1,100.

AQUEUM VORTEX is a brand new and exclusive acrylic water feature harnessing the power of engineering to produce a stunning whirlpool, kit from £3,300. n

ABOVE: Parisian bath planters include carry handles and elegant feet, from £49.99.

LEFT: Brass coloured Zafar Planters are spacious and beautiful, presented on Tower Stands for added height and drama, from £79.99.

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CRAFTED BY ARTISANS IN NORFOLK, Foras’s stunning Oberon and Mystras Armillary spheres are made from solid steel and are designed to oxidise over time, developing their own patina. A garden focal point, armillary spheres were originally invented circa 300 BC and consist of a framework of rings representing longitude and latitude. Available in 75cm and 90cm diameters and paired with natural stone plinths, these striking decorative astronomical designs are guaranteed to impress, Oberon Armillary from £1,400. n

SOLSTICE, FOR THE SUMMER A TRUE FORAS ORIGINAL, the stunning Athena Solstice handblown glass water feature has etched lines, an integral light and Italian porcelain base. During the evening, this ethereal feature glows with a calming aura, making it a perfect addition to any garden, kit from £3,500. n

n The Sea Salt water feature is a serene centrepiece for any modern, contemporary garden. A stunning honed natural slate bowl with rich charcoal colours and veins of silver sits atop a stainless-steel plinth.

The optional LED light highlights the water of the fountain before it calmly flows over the bowl, kit from £1,300.

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Peterborough’s Premier Kitchen Design & Installation Specialists...

Papyrus Road, Peterborough PE4 5BH JUST ALONG FROM THE BMW & AUDI MOTOR DEALERSHIPS

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk 88

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NATURAL STRUCTURES

NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL

BUILDINGS If life after lockdown has left you yearning for more space, but you love your home and you’re reluctant to leave, the answer is to create a naturally beautiful building or an extension to your existing property...

Images: Simon Lewington.

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workshops, with final assembly on-site, meaning less disruption and less mess as you’re in the process of creating your new space.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS, but if yours hasn’t adjusted well to life under lockdown, and you’re craving more space, Simon Lewington has the solution.

Secondly, the nature of heritage materials means greater sustainability and the ability to blend a structure with an adjacent property of a different material or age. Simon and the team also have much experience in creating their Natural Structures in conservation areas or adjacent to listed buildings.

20 years ago, the team discovered the beauty and practicality that natural timber-framed structures and traditional construction methods can bring to homes in Rutland & Stamford and the surrounding counties.

Since then, Simon founded Natural Structures and has created extensions to existing properties, free-standing structures and newly-build timber homes using traditional materials in a contemporary way.

It’s a method of construction that makes sense for so many reasons. For a start, much of the construction can take place in the company’s

What’s more, because of the bespoke nature of the structures, the millimetre accuracy of the team’s work mean that each structure is perfectly suited to your needs and your property, completely tailored to your requirements.

Main: From complete structures to extensions to existing buildings, a Natural Structure is always an elegant solution.

“Making an existing property – especially an older property – suit modern family life can 91

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“Creating beautiful spaces, naturally, is our pleasure, and our purpose...”

Above: As well as extensions to existing properties, Natural Structures can create spaces like this lakeside lodge... a perfect self-contained retreat with electricity, water and fully fitted kitchen and bathroom.

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sometimes be a tricky undertaking to say the least,” says Simon. “A number of our clients have agonised over whether to move or improve, but love their existing property. They’ve asked us to create new reception rooms or living kitchens which provide more significantly more space, comparatively easily, with plenty of character and with modern family spaces easily incorporated.”

“But there’s absolutely no typical customer, and our clients’ needs are as bespoke as the structures themselves. We insist on meeting clients informally to discuss their needs over a coffee, and explore exactly what they’re looking to achieve.”

“Our architects can then produce 3D concepts and accurate costings to ensure that the design process is as collaborative as possible.”

“Our previous designs have included anything from complete house framing to simple out buildings, right up to living kitchens that combine oak, glass, steel and stone to create spaces that are both beautiful and practical.”

“Because much of the manufacturing process takes place in our workshops, there’s less disruption on site and less chance of weatherdependent downtime. Using time-honoured construction methods like hand-cut variations of mortice & tenon or scarf joints, we’re able to take our time and create structures that look like they’ve been made centuries ago by traditional craftspeople.”

“Our satisfied customers can testify to our professionalism and to the look and feel of our structures. Creating beautiful spaces, naturally, is our pleasure, and our purpose.” n

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Find Out More: For a free no obligation design and feasibility discussion about your project, call Simon Lewington and the Natural Structures team on 01858 545518 or see www.natural-structures.co.uk.

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GET YOUR HOME & GARDEN READY FOR

Shop online or in-store

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www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk 95

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LOCAL NGS GARDENS

English Country

GARDENS This month the NGS will publish its Yellow Book, the gardener’s bible for those seeking a great day out and inspiration for their own plot. Here, Vicky Flynn tells us why the NGS is a great organisation for charities, as well as the public...

Main Image: Old Vicarage, Whissendine.

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Vicky Flynn is the National PR manager for the NGS and says: “The National Garden Scheme doesn’t just open beautiful gardens for charity – we are passionate about the physical and mental health benefits of gardens too. We also support charities doing amazing work in gardens and health and grant bursaries to help community gardening projects.”

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? If the answer is ‘very well, thank you!’ then perhaps you should consider opening our beautifully curated gardens for visitors during the NGS season. Founded in 1927, the charity is a really neat way for keen gardeners to show off their handiwork, for visitors to get lots of ideas and inspiration for their own gardens, and it’s a super way for charities to earn some much-needed post-Covid funds.

When it first opened, the NGS comprised of a still impressive 690 open garden events, raising £8,100.

In 2020 though, 3,700 gardens were due to open, and the charity raises an average of £3m a year. In total, it has donated £63m to nursing and health charities.

Top: Redhill Lodge, Barrowden.

Above: Dr Sarah Furness, Old Vicarage.

Over the page we’ve picked 12 of our favourite local gardens to visit over the next couple of months. Not only will you enjoy a leisurely stroll around some of the area’s most beautifully curated gardens, you’ll also help raise money for charity and at pretty much all of the gardens, you’ll be able to enjoy cream teas and purchase a plant or two from the gardens’ stalls to take home. >> 97

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NGS GARDENS IN SUMMER...

Sunday 27th March

Saturday 9th April

GUNTHORPE HALL, OAKHAM, is a large garden in a country setting with extensive views across the Rutland landscape with the carpets of daffodils being a key seasonal feature. The Stable Yard has been transformed into a series of parterres. The kitchen garden and borders have all been rejuvenated over recent years. n 2pm - 5pm, Gunthorpe Hall Gunthorpe, Oakham LE15 8BE.

THE SOUTH GARDENS of Burghley House will open for the NGS with spectacular spring bulbs in park like setting with magnificent trees and the opportunity to enjoy Capability Brown's famous lake and summerhouse. Entry via Garden Kiosks.

Garden opening coincide with Burghley’s FIne Food Market. n 10.30am - 3.30pm, Burghley House PE9 3JY. Also Sun 10th Apr.

Gunthorpe Hall, Oakham.

Sunday 24th April

Kelmarsh Hall.

KELMARSH HALL, is an elegant Palladian house set in glorious countryside with highly regarded gardens. Hidden gems include an orangery, sunken garden, long border, rose gardens and, at the heart of it all, a historic walled garden. Highlights throughout the seasons include roses and dahlias. n 10am - 4pm, Kelmarsh Hall, Northamptonshire NN6 9LY.

Easton Walled Garden, Grantham.

Sunday 8th May

Sunday 15th May

BURROUGH ON THE HILL, was built in 1867 as a classic hunting lodge. The garden, framed by mature trees and shrubs, was extensively redesigned by garden designer George Carter in 2007. This family garden designed for all generations to enjoy is surrounded by magnificent views across High Leicestershire. n 2pm - 5pm, Burrough Hall Leicestershire LE14 2QZ.

THE OLD VICARAGE, has a terrace with topiary, a formal fountain courtyard and raised beds backed by gothic orangery. Large ornate greenhouse, four beehives, Gothic hen house plus rare breed hens.

White walk, unusual plants. New Victorian style garden room. Featured on BBC Gardeners' World in 2019. n 1pm - 4.30pm, The Old Vicarage, Whissendine LE15 7HG.

The Old Vicarage, Whissendine.

Thursday 2nd June

Redhill Lodge, Barrowden.

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REDHILL LODGE, will open for a twilight NGS event with its bold contemporary design with formal lawns, grass amphitheatre and turf viewing mound, herbaceous borders and rose garden. New for 2022 is a Japanese-style stroll garden, natural swimming pond, plus prairie style planting schemes. n 6.30pm - 9pm, Redhill Lodge Barrowden LE15 8EN.

Home Farm, Ryhall.

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Friday 15th April

Sunday 24th April

EASTON WALLED GARDENS, 400 year old, restored, 12 acre garden near Grantham. Home to snowdrops, sweet peas, roses and meadows. Other garden highlights include a yew tunnel, turf maze and cut flower gardens. The Courtyard offers shopping, plant sales, a coffee room and beauty salon. n 11am - 4pm, Easton NG33 5AP Seven miles south of Grantham.

THE OLD HALL, in Market Overton features stone walls and yew hedges divide the garden into enclosed areas with herbaceous borders, shrubs, and young and mature trees. There are interesting plants flowering most of the time. In 2020 a Japanese Tea House was added at the bottom of the garden. n 1pm - 5pm, The Old Hall Market Overton LE15 7PL.

The Old Hall, Market Overton.

Sunday 8th May

Fox Cottage, Ashwell.

MILTON HALL is located just off the A47 and features 20 acres of pleasure grounds laid out by Humphry Repton in 1791 inc lake, mature trees, extensive lawns, hard gravel paths, historic orangery.

Enclosed walled Italian garden and kitchen garden. n 10.30am - 5.30pm, Milton Hall Milton Peterborough, PE6 7AG.

Milton Hall, Peterborough.

Sunday 22nd May

Sunday 29th May

FOX COTTAGE IN ASHWELL is a two acre country garden on the edge of the village with sweeping views across the surrounding open fields.

Walks through the wonderful ancient oaks and ash underplanted with spring bulbs and lawns surrounded by rampant cow parsley. South facing terrace with seasonal planting. n 11.30am - 4.30pm, Fox Cottage Woodside, Ashwell LE15 7LX.

THE OLD VICARAGE at Burley on the Hill is a relaxed country garden, planted for year-round interest and colour. There are lawns and borders, a lime walk, rose gardens and a sunken rill garden with an avenue of standard wisteria. Walled garden, two orchards, an acer garden and areas planted for wildlife. n 10.30am - 5pm, The Old Vicarage, Burley LE15 7SU.

The Old Vicarage, Burley on the Hill.

Saturday 25th June

Fox Cottage, Ashwell.

HOME FARM is a colourful, scented garden designed to encourage wildlife.

Herbaceous and shrub borders, fruit cage and vegetable garden and orchard of old local varieties of top fruit. Showstoppers in mid-summer are the roses and honeysuckle.

Woodland walk, formal walled kitchen garden and listed dovecote too. n 1pm - 5pm, Home Farm Ryhall, PE9 4HA.

The Old Vicarage, Burley on the Hill.

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DA D AVID AV GREAV AVES S Design

2D CO ONCEPT & 3D VISUAL LANDS SCAPE DESIGN SERVICE

DAVID V GREAVES V DESIGN DAVID GREAVE ES DESIGN offer a bespoke 2D concept and 3D visual la andscape design serrvice to create your dream garden achieving the best fo or outdoor living.

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w. www.davidgreavesdesign.co.uk e. info@davidgreavesdesign.co.uk m. 07852 371873 m t. 01664 823588

R&S Pride APRIL 237.qxp 01/03/2022 14:19 Page 101

LE T USS ENTER RTAIN A YOU… …

L ay the foundations for your summer.

Browse our collection of natural stone paving and landscaping stone at www.ssathome.co.uk k or call us on 01780 740970 to book a showroom m visit.

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

Enjoy the area’s finest magazines, using our App, free to download now!

Read online now at

w w w.p ridemag azi nes.co.uk You can now enjoy Pride Magazine with our app on your smartphone or tablet... completely free of charge!

R&S Pride APRIL 237.qxp 01/03/2022 14:20 Page 103

Improve Your Home Environment Architectural

Planning Drawings Last July marked 21 years of Optimum Design Services. We Listed Building Consent cover both domestic and commercial premises, providing Barn Conversions a wealth of experience and with English Heritage experts on the Loft Conversions more trickier listed properties.

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WALKING IN RUTLAND

Made For WALKING This month we’re enjoying a trio of walks in Rutland with three routes recommended by Walking Britain...

Image: Hambleton’s Priest’s House and St Andrew’s Church.

n Hambleton Peninsula Circular...

Distance: 4.9 miles / 8 km.

Difficulty: Easy.

Time: About three hours.

How to Get There: LE15 8TJ (approx); OS grid reference SK900075 More Information: www.walkingbritain.co.uk.

RUTLAND WATER was officially inaugurated in 1976. Until construction began Upper Hambleton stood on high ground surrounded by countryside.

As the reservoir was gradually flooded the area around the village soon became a peninsula with a narrow strip of land connecting it to the ‘mainland.’ This walk uses concessionary footpaths around the peninsula following a clockwise direction along the shores of Rutland Water.

The start of the walk is the centre of the village (grid ref. SK900075). There is limited on-street parking but do be considerate and make sure you do not block residents’ access.

Note that on busy days parking will be at a premium.

After parking follow the road towards Oakham that you used to reach Upper Hambleton. After approximately 250 metres take the signed multi-use path on the right (grid ref. SK899078). This leads a convoluted but well-signed route around the peninsula roughly following the north shore with views across Rutland Water. The track eventually reaches a road (grid ref. SK920067).

Turn right along the road for 200 metres and take the continuation of the multi-user track on your left. The route now proceeds along the southern shore of the peninsula to pass through Hambleton Wood. Soon after leaving the woodland you pass a footpath on your right. Ignore this path and continue past Limes Farm following the tarmac lane along the shore.

Do not follow the lane into Upper Hambleton, instead bear left onto the continuing multiuser path along the shore for 400 metres and take the next signed footpath on your right (grid ref. SK895075). Follow this gently rising path into the village passing through the churchyard back to the start. n Route: Lou Johnson, Walking Britain.

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD WALKS

n A Ramble Around Riseholme...

Distance: 7 miles / 11.2 km.

Description: A pleasant walk with just one short ascent. Mostly field paths and tracks with some short stretches of road, plus two crossings of the A15.

How to Get There: Start at St Mary’ s Church, Riseholme College, Lincoln, LN2 2LF, SK984757.

THIS WALK through counties starts at the picturesque village of Lyddington.

The village is reached by turning south off the A47 near Uppingham onto A6003 and then down a signed secondary road on the left. Note there is no official car park so leave your car near to the White Hart Inn. Please make sure that you do cause any inconvenience to residents and park responsibly. It is also worth remembering that Lyddington is the site of Bede House, maintained by English Heritage, and is a fine example of a medieval almshouse.

To start the walk, take the side road by the inn (Stoke Road). After a short way join the footpath on the right (grid ref SP873970).

Follow this path as it continues uphill.

On reaching the road at a junction go straight across and up the lane opposite.

Where the lane goes left, take the bridleway to the right of the house. As you follow the bridleway it will become a fenced path.

Take time to look to the left and you will see a magnificent view of Eyebrook Reservoir.

This reservoir was used by the Dambusters (617 Squadron) for practice prior to their epic raid during the Second World War. 106

Continue along the path and you will see a stile on the left-hand side which leads into a plantation of saplings. Take this path which will take you into Stoke Dry Wood. Follow the path as it descends and then cross the field. Go over the bridge over the Eye Brook and diagonally left to the road and the tiny hamlet of Stockerston.

To continue the walk follow the Rockingham Road until you see a footpath sign 'Jurassic Way' on your right. You will see Rockingham Castle rising up in front of you as you walk along this path. On reaching a road, turn left and then after a short way go right following the footpath sign. This will lead you into the village of Rockingham.

On reaching the main road through the village, via a public house courtyard, turn right.

Cross over and higher up amidst the houses you will see the continuation of the Jurassic Way. Turn left through the gate immediately after the houses, then go diagonally across the field. The route then continues in more or less a straight line until you reach a railway line on the edge of Gretton. Go under the bridge, go to the left and climb the slope. At the top you will see the village of Gretton in Lyddington front of you.

Go straight across into Church Lane and take the signed path on the left (grid ref.

SP835975). This leads across fields to reach Stockerston Cross Roads (grid ref. SP826963).

Take Uppingham Road (B664) towards Medbourne. At the first road junction stay on the B664 and continue for 400 metres passing Priory Farm on your left. Just past the farm take the footpath on the left (grid ref. SP819953).

Take this path straight across the first field, then diagonally to the right until you have When reaching the road, the stream on your leftfollow it to the left and hand side. After a short Lyddington Bede House is a Grade I listed building built in then right, then left again distance, you cross the the 12th century as a convenient until you arrive in the vilstream with the stream place for the Bishop of Lincoln’s entourage to stop when lage square where there's a now on your right. The path traversing the huge newly opened coffee shop. leaves the stream as you go didiocese.

After refreshments, take the agonally to the left towards the lane to the left of the church. This village of Great Easton. leads you to a footpath. Walk diagonally Reaching a farm lane, turn left and some across the field to the railway line. After yards further on go right. This will lead you crossing the line carry on to the right to into the village proper. Reaching the road reach the River Welland. A little further on bear right and walk through Great Easton. cross the bridge over the river. Continue on At the far end of the village is the public the path under a disused railway to reach a house The Sun and also seating by the war road. Continue back to Lyddington. n memorial if you need a break.

Bede House

Route: Lou Johnson, Walking Britain.

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Lyddington Bede House.

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n The Morcott & Harringworth Circular...

Distance: 7.2 miles / 11.7km.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Time: About four hours.

How to Get There: LE15 9DT (approx); OS grid reference SK925007 More Information: www.walkingbritain.co.uk.

THIS CIRCULAR WALK from the Rutland village of Morcott follows a section of the Jurassic Way along the Welland Valley to reach Harringworth in Northamptonshire.

The route continues beneath the Welland Viaduct to return to the start following the Rutland Round walk. The highlight of the walk is the Welland Viaduct which was built in the 1870's by the Midland Railway.

The Welland Viaduct.

With 82 arches, it is the longest masonry viaduct ion Britain. The walk can be started in Morcott or Harringworth.

After 1.3 kilometres you enter Barrowden.

At the road junction turn right onto the road to Seaton (grid ref. SK942001).

After parking walk south. Mount Pleasant Road will be on your right and Station Road on your left. Reaching a T-junction, cross the road and take the signed path opposite.

Take the first footpath on the left along a tarmac drive (The Jurassic Way). Turn right over the stile and continue half right across three fields to reach the formation for a former railway line. Bear right and follow the path which runs parallel to the old railway for 1.4 kilometres to reach a track with an old railway overbridge over to your right (grid ref. SP927986).

Cross the field using aiming for the windmill. You will pass a way marker before passing through a small wood to reach the A47 (grid ref. SK930003). Turn left along the pavement and then cross with care and take the minor road to Barrowden.

Turn left along the track and cross Turtle Bridge over the River Welland into Northamptonshire. Turn right along the path which follows the river on your right.

Entering the third field, ignore the path on the left and continue along the track.

Morcott to Harringworth

The start is the centre of Morcott village where very limited street parking is usually possible on High Street (grid ref. SK925007).

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD WALKS

After another 300 metres the track bends left. Continue ahead into a field and head half right to reach a road (grid ref.

SP918973). Turn right along the road to the centre of Harringworth village.

Harringworth to Morcott

An alternative start is from Harringworth village centre where limited street parking is usually available (grid ref. SP917973). Leave the village centre on the road signed to Gretton. Take the first signed footpath on the right as you approach the viaduct.

The path heads half left across the field beneath the viaduct to a footpath sign at the River Welland (grid ref. SP911971). Cross the footbridge and continue on the grassy track to reach a hedge. Turn right and follow the path around the house crossing a footbridge

and two stiles to join the access drive. Turn right up the drive to a road (grid ref. SP907977).

Turn right and then immediately left through a gate, up steps and across the old railway. The path crosses several fields towards the church spire in Seaton village.

Reaching Church Lane, turn right and walk to a T-junction. Turn right along Main Street. Go straight across the crossroads to Barrowden.

You are now following the Rutland Round and able to enjoy a view across the Welland Valley on your right. As the road descends and curves right, take the signed footpath on the left passing through a gate (not the stile) and heading through the field with the field boundary on the left. At the end of the field go through gate on left, then right through

another gate to pass under the disused railway, which is now covered in trees.

Follow path straight across a field to a gap from where you cross another field with the path soon running parallel to a hedge on your right. Continue to the end of the hedge.

From here maintain direction on a clear path running parallel to the old railway on your right. This leads past some houses on your right to reach the A47.

Cross the A47 with care to the road opposite.

After a few metres take the signed path on the right. Go half left across the field to a gap in the hedge, pass through paddock using the waymark as a guide. Then follow fence on your right to join Mount Pleasant Road which leads to the High Street. n Route: Lou Johnson, Walking Britain.

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WEDDINGS

A Home Grown Wedding A beautiful retro wedding at Oakham Castle with home-grown greenery and the groom’s beloved classic cars! This month we enjoy a special day with Emmy and Matt Tomkins...

Wedding Photographer: Ben Davis Photography, 07515 776526, www.bendavisphotography.com.

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? Hopefully, well-enough to provide some beautiful blooms for your wedding. And with Emmy contributing her green-fingered talent and providing the wedding floristry for their home-grown wedding, fiancé Matt found himself taking equal pleasure in contributing their wedding cars… his beloved classic Morris Minors!

Living near Colsterworth, Matt is not only a classic car enthusiast but also works in Peterborough as a writer for Practical Classics magazine. Meanwhile, not only does Emmy employ her talents in the couple’s own garden, she also works as Assistant Head Gardener at Grimsthorpe Castle.

The couple’s respective interests not only made their wedding more affordable, it also made the day all the more memorable, too.

“We met through an online dating app, and were both fortunate that neither of us had been online that long before finding each other,” says Emmy. “We both feel very lucky indeed to have found each other!”

“Matt had taken me to a Morris Minor rally which included a camping weekend – every girl’s dream, surely – then on the way back, he decided to take a 40-minute detour, much to my dismay, as I recall!”

“We stopped and took a lovely walk through the Peak District, where Matt proposed in a beautiful location, by a waterfall. I was really impressed, it was so romantic… apart from the midges and bites! Looking back, I should have known a proposal was imminent because it was the first time that Matt has ever willingly left a classic car rally early!”

“The first element of the wedding we booked was Oakham Castle. We were engaged just before Covid and originally booked our big day for summer of 2020, but we had to postpone it for a year.”

“We didn’t have too many ideas about how we wanted our day to be, although we considered an outdoor wedding or something involving camping. What we did know for sure is that we didn’t want a traditional church wedding.”

“After looking around a few places, we visited Oakham Castle, and it was perfect!

The atmosphere was so serene, and it had the kind of beautiful architecture that still gave us a traditional feel. It was the first time we had both been to the landmark and it just took our breath away with its horseshoes hanging on the wall.”

“Since we were trying to keep costs down – and trying to make the day as personal as possible – the day before the wedding, our family and friends all helped to decorate our venues.”

“We also chose Sewstern Village Hall as our reception venue to ensure we were local to our home. Everything was centred around Oakham Castle, which worked well as it was only 20 minutes or so from our home and from my parents’ home, where I grew up.”

“Once we had our venue booked, the rest of the elements were all organised quite smoothly, as everything was created by us.

Our wedding breakfast was created by a good friend and our cake was made by Matt’s grandmother, who made an amazing job of it… it was so beautiful!”

“My wedding dress was a vintage 1970sstyle dress chosen for our first wedding date,

but as time went by, I fell out of love with it.

I happened to see the perfect dress online and sent the photo to my best friend, who thought it was perfect. I purchased it just a few weeks before the big day! I absolutely fell in love with it, from its Champagne colour, to its capped sleeves and floral lace.”

“Although we didn’t really have a coherent colour scheme, everything seemed to tie-in really well and it was all consistent with our vision for a fun summer wedding. The guests all attended in bright colours, which was lovely. The bridesmaids’ dresses were picked by my best friend who happened to find one perfect dress in a high street shop and asked my other bridesmaid to go and try on the same style too.”

“Matt’s suit came was from a tailor in Stamford, Paul Richman. To his credit he was actually very well-organised for the first wedding date, so his suit ended up sitting in the wardrobe for two years before the eventual big day.”

“Since we were trying to keep costs down – and trying to make the day as personal as possible – the day before the wedding, our family and friends all helped to decorate our venues.”

“What we always wanted was to create a day that nobody else would have. Of course, I also made all the bouquets and floral decorations myself – I had a really specific idea in mind and I wanted them to look quite natural. The style of my garden is quite ‘prairie’ in nature, with a cottage garden feel, so I really just wanted to reflect the look of our garden in our wedding.

I used the grasses and flowers that I had grown and made sure there was a consistent look throughout the day. I even dried out some allium seed heads in our greenhouse for the table decorations.” >>

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WEDDINGS

>> “We had a fabulous live band to provide our entertainment. They were made up of a random selection of people that are a part of the Temple Funk collective, a group which has pioneered a modern take on dance music using brass instruments, drums, and even a singer. They were absolutely fabulous!”

“One of the funny highlights of the day was my best friend and maid of honour being pulled over by police on way to Oakham Castle. We were already pushed for time, and she hadn’t broken any laws (it was just a random check), but to be stopped in a car which was wearing a full complement of wedding ribbons, with people in suits and dresses was amusing... thankfully we all made it to the Castle on time!”

“After the wedding, we went to Scotland for a week for our honeymoon and spend the time touring around a few places, staying in different hotels on the way. The best bits of the honeymoon would definitely be the food – it was incredible – but we also enjoyed a night out in Edinburgh as The Fringe was on so we had a really good time.”

“I think my best advice for other brides is that it’s very easy to get carried away with what you think is traditional and what people will expect you to do for your wedding.

Sometimes, though, you should just choose what fits in with your idea of your day. Don’t be afraid to do something a bit different if that’s want for your wedding!” n Wedding Photographer: Ben Davis Photography, 07515 776526, www.bendavisphotography.com.

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A T E x

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5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DP +44 (0)1780 755405 W chameleonboutique.co.uk enquiries@chameleonboutique.co.uk _chameleonboutique

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Vivienne Westwood, Kathy floral-print leather cross-body bag, £330.

A Mixed Bag This month we’re presenting a mixed bag of clutch, shoulder and totes, to ensure you’ve got spring style in the bag...

Edit: Mandy Bray.

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Loewe, Hammock mini mauve leather cross-body bag, £1,500.

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By Far, Baby Cush striped suede top handle bag, £405.

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FASHION

Top/Left: Givenchy, Antigona small light pink leather top handle bag, £1,450. Top/Right: Valentino, Garavani Roman Stud wool top handle bag, £2,050.

Above/Left: JW Anderson, Pink chain-embellished knitted hobo bag, £575. Above/Right: Michael Kors, Mina large pebbled leather shoulder bag, £515.

Stockists include www.harveynichols.com.

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Your health doesn’t have to wait With Spire Leicester Hospital you’ll see a leading specialist in a hospital where safety

with us, you can be sure that you’ll receive expert care in a secure environment.

Fast access to diagnosis and treatment You can see one of our specialists quickly, because less waiting means less worrying.

Advanced technology

We use the latest technology and techniques wherever possible to get the best outcome for you.

Safety first

Our hospitals have thorough protection measures in place to keep you safe.

Book to see an expert today Search ‘Spire Leicester Hospital’ Call 0116 490 3416 0% representative APR available Credit is subject to status. Spire Healthcare Limited is acting as a credit broker, Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd is the lender. All named parties are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Spire Healthcare’s registered address is 3 Dorset Rise, London, EC4Y 8EN.

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COSMETICS

And so, to bed...

A SELECTION OF COSMETICS AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS WHICH WORK HARD TO IMPROVE YOUR APPEARANCE AS YOU ENJOY A RESTFUL NIGHT’S SLEEP...

1. Collagen-power for smooth skin whilst you sleep...

5. Pink diamond: a girl’s best friend, says Rodial...

Wake up with firmer, smoother, younger looking skin by using Sisley Night Cream with Collagen. This overnight treatment has been formulated to fight back against the most common signs of ageing, by helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and helping to bring back a firmness and suppleness to the skin that can be lost over time, £146/50ml.

Transform the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep with Rodial’s retinol-infused Pink Diamond Magic Gel Night treatment. Enriched with vitamin C and Diamond Powder, this lightweight, hydrating formula works to promote overnight skin renewal and repair for a visibly smooth, lifted and illuminated complexion, £75/50ml.

2. The still of the night Estèe Lauder presents this super strong, fast absorbing night eye serum designed to help to dramatically reduce every key sign of ageing around the fragile eye area; corrects the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles and dryness, £50/15ml.

3. Night oil for night owls Votary’s Intense Night Oil encourages the skin’s natural turnover of cells and reduces the breakdown of collagen, meaning you wake with firmer, smoother skin. Delicately fragranced with rose oil, it also contains nourishing avocado oil, tomato seed and rosehip oil, £135/50ml.

6. Relax, refresh, and recharge with Clarins...

Relaxing Sleep Mask for softer skin while you snooze! My Clarins Recharge overnight hydrating face mask is infused with My Clarins Healthy Skin complex, a skin-saving duo of hydrating coconut water and detoxifying Alpen rose extract.

Simply apply before your head hits the pillow - this is eight hours sleep in a jar, £24/50ml.

4. A perfect night sleep Neom presents this 100% natural body butter supercharged with magnesium. Scented with Neom Tranquillity fragrance including English lavender, sweet basil and jasmine, it will help ease anxiety, reduce muscle tension, nourish and restore skin, £36, 200ml.

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

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RAMSAY FITZWILLIAM HOSPITAL

Access Private Health Care

WITHOUT WAITING Ramsay Health Care’s Fitzwilliam Hospital is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing needs of their local communities. Providing exceptional healthcare alongside its NHS partners has always been their top priority. The value and benefit of this working relationship, though, has never been more evident than over the past couple of years...

THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC, Fitzwilliam Hospital worked together with the NHS to support the in unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic and deliver other urgent operations and cancer treatments for local residents.

Local Ramsay hospitals continue to work collaboratively with the NHS to help clear the backlog of patients waiting for elective surgery as well as patients who require urgent treatment.

However, the NHS now faces significant challenges in restoring its services. NHS waiting lists are at record levels as they try to address thebacklog of demand for care.

Diagnostics and screenings, elective procedures through to cancer treatment are all affected. So, it comes as no surprise that more patients in Peterborough and its local communities are considering private healthcare.

Going private with Ramsay can mean the difference between waiting years or having access to high-quality diagnostics and treatment. Many patients who need elective procedures such as orthopaedic and spinal surgery (spinal fusion, hip and knee replacements) can find their quality of life is affected.

By choosing Fitzwilliam Hospital, patients can be fully recovered from their operation and enjoying life again.

Fitzwilliam Hospital is an Orthopaedic Centre and has recently invested in a replacement state-of-the-art MRI scanner to provide easy access to the latest diagnostic facilities that can be difficult to access on the NHS. Fitzwilliam Hospital offer patients access to convenient appointments, diagnostics and treatment without waiting and direct access to a Consultant led service.

If you have private health insurance, now might be the time to consider using it, so that

you can get the treatment you need and return to the things you love sooner.

Fitzwilliam Hospital is recognised by all major medical insurers. This means that most medically required procedures will be covered by your private health insurance.

You will need to check to find out what your plan covers and if you have any excess to pay.

The excess might be covered by your employer if your insurance is through them.

Many patients pay for their treatment themselves. Fitzwilliam Hospital have a number of finance options to support their patients so they can access the treatment they need right now rather than waiting.

They offer interest-free finance with no deposit required and affordable monthly instalments; an all-inclusive fixed price TotalCare package; and pay as you go flexible payments to pay for treatment as and when costs arise. n

Find Out More: The Peterborough-based Fitzwilliam Hospital offer insurance-based and self-pay care with all-inclusive prices or 0% finance available. You can access the latest diagnostics and treatments across most medical disciplines, usually with no waiting lists. To find out more, call 01733 261717 or see www.fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk.

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EAT, LAUGH EAT, LAUGH AND A ND SMILE SMILE AGAIN AGAIN WITH WI TH DENTAL DE NTA L IIMPLANTS. MPLA NTS.

B Book your FR REE consulta ation today!

Call 0147 76 6 5944 480 From a child to myy now mid-50s, I had a feear of the dentist and this led to infrequent dentist visits, v which in turn led to poor dental d health and for years I had suffered with lose teeth and sore gums and d kept putting of going to the deentist. Finallyy,, this time last year I plucked up the courage to do something about my teeth and while looking g online for a dentist I cho ose The Dental Health & Im mplant Centre mostly bassed on the online reviews. Thhis turned out to be the beest choice I could have ma ade. Following discussionns with Colin, I decided to have my m existing teeth removed installed This wo ork was done d and permanent dental iimplants installed. in stages with tem mporary bridges installed between dental visits (thiss was important to me, duue to my work).

While I was still veery apprehensive about the t appointments, each viisit got a little easier. Colin and Precilla kept me informed on the various stages of the dental work and in November, N Colin installed my new teeth.

I cannot thank theem enough and I am really pleased with how my new teeth look. I would reecommend Colin and all his team to anyone wanting dental d work, based on myy experience.

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Bone Joint Pain or Sports Injuries Our specialist team deliver high quality diagnostics and treatment for Shoulder and Elbow, Hand and Wrist, Spinal, Hip and Knee and Foot and Ankle.

For more information and appointments please call: 01733 842 304 or visit:

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New Luxury Care Home

Castor Lodge Care Home Castor Lodge Care Home provides the highest standards of familyled residential and dementia care. Our home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Castor Lodge feel extra special.

• 68 Spacious en-suite bedrooms • 6 Premium self-contained suites • Bistro Café and themed Pub • Sociable lounge and dining areas

• Roof terrace and landscaped gardens • Hair and pamper salon • Daily fine dining • Tailored meaningful activities

To find out more about life at Castor Lodge Care Home contact Laura Mills on 07725 799 217 or laura.mills@countrycourtcare.com

01733 731 455

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Splash Lane, Castor, Peterborough, PE5 7BD

www.countrycourtcare.com

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Residential Care

Dementia Care

Nursing Care

Quality of life in the heart of Oakham...

Residential, dementia, nursing or respite care.

Luxury facilites including cinema and library.

Aspen Manor Care Home Barleythorpe Road Oakham LE15 6GL info@aspenmanorcarehome.co.uk www.aspenmanorcarehome.co.uk

Landscaped gardens and café/bistro/bar.

Outstanding, personalised care, no hidden costs.

For a personal, no obligation tour around our beautiful new home, call 01572 494770

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MOTORS

Estate of

THE ART As the indomitable rise of the SUV causes sales of executive saloons, estate cars and sports cars to plummet, Porsche is fighting back with a shooting-brake style version of its Taycan sports coupé.

It’s the electric sports car with four seats, a decent boot, and lots of style and performance...

BEFORE THE RISE OF THE SUV, estate cars provided extra space and practicality, and typically more headroom in the rear, making them a practical bet for families whose boots are always heaving with clutter.

In the boot there’s 446 litres or storage, and with the rear seats folded, this increases to 1,212 litres. For reference, that’s comparable with a Ford Focus... and there’s a front boot with an extra 84 litres of storage, too.

Four seats are standard, but a fifth seat is one of the very many optional extras. Out of the box the 4S is a snip under £85,000, but save money for leather, adaptive cruise control and a 360° camera.

Today, 4x4 bodystyles are dominating the motoring world, and the poor old estate car looks comparatively unloved. But if you’re looking for a car that blends the ‘four seats and big boot’ practicality of an estate car with the low-slung style of a sporty coupé, Porsche’s new Taycan Cross Turismo should be right at the top of your motoring shortlist.

The all-electric Taycan in 4S form reaches 60mph in four seconds and tops out at 155mph where legal. It’ll go for 274 miles before charging which, with an 80kWh battery and an AC charger, takes 4.5 hours.

There’s a phenomenal scope for customising your Taycan, too, with eight wheels, 17 paint colours – plus the option to have the car painted to your bespoke shade – and myriad options for seat stitching, dashboard finishers and so on.

Five models are available, a 362ps entry model, a 4S version with 435ps and all-wheel drive, plus a GTS version and two Turbo versions with 517 and 625ps. We reckon the best bet is the all-wheel drive 4S. 128

Naturally, for a company which majors on handling, the Taycan is phenomenal to drive, handling like it’s on rails. And thanks to its electric drivetrain, power deliver is absolutely immediate. A car that can appeal to your heart and satisfy your head, the Taycan really is all the car you’ll ever need... or want. n

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THE DETAILS

Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo Price: £ 85,604 (4S Sport).

Powertrain: 320kW/435PS all electric, 79.2kWh battery.

Performance: 0-60mph: 4.0 secs.

Top speed 155mph.

WLTP range 274mpg.

Equipment: Partial leather interior, 19” alloy wheels, heated seats, two-zone climate control, electric windows. Porsche PASM climate and infotainment system with navigation. n 129

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The Directory To advertise here call our friendly team on 01529 469977

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