Stamford Pride August 2022

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STAMFORD

PRIDE STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

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WELCOME READ

RUTLAND

PRIDE

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STAMFORD

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PRIDE

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STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

RUTLAND’S FINEST MAGAZINE

Cycling in Rutland Cycling around the water

Antiques & Art

Celebrating antiques in Rutland

The Rutland Show Exclusive images from 2022’s show

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W

e’re not sure about you, but personally, for the Pride team, it’s been a very busy month. The Platinum Jubilee certainly kept us busy with local celebrations, as did last month’s Rutland Show, which was back with all the traditional entertainment that makes it one of the most popular events in the calendar across the county.

It’s great to see these popular summer events returning to the county, and as Pride goes to press, we’ll also be enjoying the arrival of HM The Queen’s Jubilee Baton in the county, Burghley House’s Battle Proms, and a trip to Tolethorpe Hall to watch a performance by the Stamford Shakespeare Company... so plenty more summer fun is yet to follow!

Hot on the heels of the county show was another celebration, one with friends and colleagues, to mark the 20th anniversary of the founding of Pride Magazines. It was a chance to reflect on two decades of success and to remind ourselves what a wonderful team we all work alongside.

Speaking of making a wonderful team, as you read this, our wonderful Sales Manager Cydney Buck will be out of the office – indeed, out of the country – marrying her fiancé, Charlie.

They’re a smashing couple and we wish them all the best for a really happy life together!

Our best wishes, for a great month!

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

This month’s covers show cycling around Rutland Water and twilight in Stamford.

We’re always looking for scenes of Rutland and Stamford to feature on our covers and in the magazine.

If you’re a budding photographer, email your pictures to the address above!

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CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

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DINING OUT Quality pub-restaurant

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AFTERNOON TEA Afternoon Tea

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NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across the county, including an honour for SIr Laurence Howard.

WHAT’S ON Live events, music and theatre productions this August.

and much more at Vale House, on Belvoir Castle’s Engine Yard.

HIGHLIGHTS

HOMES & GARDENS

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ARTS & ANTIQUES Tales from the sale room, and fine art at Burghley House. We’ll visit local galleries and antiques centres, then discover the work of extraordinary Baroque artist Artemisia Gentileschi.

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PROPERTY A stunning barn conversion near Bourne.

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IN THE GARDEN Enjoying the verdant parterres of Deene Park.

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BAREFOOT RETREATS Gorgeous self-catering breaks in North Norfolk.

106 MOTORS A new Range Rover Sport.

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CLIPSHAM From local stone to Michelin-starred dining and idyllic beauty spots, we’re this month rediscovering the charms of Clipsham.

100 CYCLING A day out under pedal power around Rutland Water.

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dining at The White Horse in Baston.

LIFESTYLE 108 WEDDING ALBUM The wedding of Samantha & Peter on the Exton Estate.

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FASHION Sandals for summer style.

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HIGH LIFE Photos from the Rutland Show and the Deeping Summer Ball.

120 BEAUTY Summer beauty products.

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108 READ

THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

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.

Sales Executives: Abby Moon, Catherine Healy.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

IT Manager: Ian Bagley.

Web Developer: Joe Proctor.

Senior Accounts Manager: Paul Robinson-Marsh.

Office Manager: Chloe Watson.

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

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

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BCM WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVERTISING FEATURE

Retirement Made Easy Retirement or ceasing to work is a big milestone in anyone’s life, and it means different things to different people. Planning for your retirement is one of the biggest financial decisions of your lifetime. There is a lot to consider; the fact that people are living longer, higher inflation rates and the huge number of choices, all result in not knowing what decisions to make... navigating the complexities of pensions and we are here to help it make sense.

Whatever you want to do in retirement, the more time you give yourself to prepare and the earlier you start putting money away, the harder your savings can work for you... ultimately, to help you to enjoy a prosperous retirement. Planning for the future always begins with understanding what you can save, what you have saved and whether you’re getting the best from it.

At BCM Wealth Management, we look at your whole situation, including how you feel about different considerations, your future financial aspirations and help you to identify and build a plan that is right for you.

How can you save for your retirement?

A way that you can save for your retirement is through pensions. You can start to and continue to contribute into pensions at any working age. It’s never too late to start to save through pensions. You won’t be able to access the money you save until you reach the age of eligibility, around 55 – but this gives you the opportunity to save the fund for your retirement.

Importantly, many people are not aware that there are many tax benefits when it comes to pensions. There are several benefits to pensions, for example did you know that there are pensions tax reliefs when you save for your retirement?

Essentially, what this means, is the government rewards you for saving for your retirement.

The government will top up your retirement savings and this is based on tax reliefs and on the highest income tax you pay.

Most people can utilise the £40,000 annual allowance for pensions and earn tax relief, any contributions above this allowance will be subject to income tax at the highest rate you pay.

There is also the potential for benefits when it comes to inheritance tax. For example, in most cases, any pension pots you have can be passed on and fall outside of your estate.

Unlike your property, savings and other investments, your pension does not form part of your estate on your death, and therefore it won’t be subjected to inheritance tax.

Pension consolidations

If like most people you may have changed jobs over the years and have several pension pots. It may be beneficial to consolidate your pots and by combining your pensions you can see your pensions in one place, and you’ll be able to see how your pension is performing.

We can help you get to grips with what is where and how this helps with your plan.

Why should I speak to an adviser about all this?

Individual advice remains very important because everybody’s needs vary when it comes to planning for retirement. There are many ways to create your retirement income using the pension types that are described and an adviser can help you to create a retirement plan that you can utilise in the most efficient way possible.

There is often a balance to achieve the right mix of certainty and flexibility to suit your retirement plan.

Pensions are a great way to save for retirement for most people as they offer tax benefits and tax reliefs as you save. It can be confusing

We help you understand what tax benefits and reliefs are available to you, how much you are going to need, and then where appropriate we help you to achieve this.

Speaking to a financial adviser is a good idea for building an understanding of your investment goals and what level of investment risk you are prepared to take.

Our approach to planning your retirement is transparent, honest, and designed to meet your requirements. We want to support you with all your retirement planning needs and help you to maximise the potential growth within your pension funds over your chosen timescale.

You can book a face-to-face chat with our pension review service, to see if you’re on track to meet your retirement goals.

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. n

BCM Wealth 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 product and service, 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 BCM Wealth Management’s specialist team, based at 5 Ironmonger Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PL, www.bcmwealth.co.uk, 01780 437500.

Image: Elli Dean.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Sir Laurence becomes Hon Freeman SPECIAL MEETING AT OAKHAM CASTLE TO HONOUR SIR LAURENCE HOWARD RUTLAND A special meeting of Rutland County Council’s Full Council will be held at Oakham Castle as Pride goes to press in order to appoint Sir Laurence Howard KCVO OBE as an Honorary Freeman.

The title of Honorary Freeman is given to persons who have rendered eminent services to their county and its residents. To be eligible, a prospective Freeman must be widely respected by their peers and communities, have made exemplary achievements and must not have held elected office with Rutland County Council.

Following a proposal in February, Sir Laurence has accepted the appointment and will receive his title as part of a special ceremony in Oakham Castle’s historic Great Hall. Sir Laurence is a Rutland resident of almost 50

years. His professional background is in medical research and academia, having worked at the University of Leicester for more than three decades.

Sir Laurence was also part of a group involved in setting up a scholarship for Rutland students at the University.

Sir Laurence’s most notable service to the County came in 2003 when he was appointed as Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland.

Sir Laurence held this position for 15 years until his retirement in 2018. He was appointed Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO) in 2017.

In addition to these formal appointments Sir Laurence has been involved with numerous charitable causes and organisations in Rutland and has made an unquestionable contribution to the county and its communities. n

Willow tree’s pollarding POLLARDING FOR MEADOWS’ WILLOW...

BUT ‘WHY?’ ASK SOME STAMFORD FOLK

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Laurence was appointed KCVO in 2017 and is pictured here with HRH The Prince of Wales.

STAMFORD Tree contractors working on Stamford’s Meadows have responded to some locals’ disappointment at seeing the Willow tree at its heart receiving a liberal trim.

Brett Redshaw has headed up the work as owner of the town’s Woodcraft Tree Services and was responsible for pollarding the tree.

“It is amazing that so many local people have a feeling of affinity for the willow,” he says.

“The work carried out was a re-pollard, not a prune, not a reduction, and certainly not a ‘topping.’ Pollarding has been carried out for over 2,000

years and is intended to reduce the chance of storm damage by lowering the centre of gravity of the tree, removing static timber which is then replaced by vigorous new growth. Pollarding really does extends tree life.”

“In fact, a tree which has had a pollard cycle initiated at an appropriate phase of life, will outlive a tree of the same species which has never been pollarded.”

“We always work with the wellbeing and longevity of the tree in mind, so it’s wonderful to see the depth of feeling that has arisen from the work.” n

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OAKHAM Rutland’s annual Armed Forces flag raising took place at Oakham Castle on 20th June to mark national Armed Forces Week. The event was attended by Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness and High Sheriff of Rutland Geoff Thompson, together with representatives from Rutland County Council, Oakham and Uppingham Town Council and the Royal British Legion.

Having been restricted by Covid in each of the past two years, this year’s Armed Forces flag raising is fully open to the public and all are welcome to attend.

A ceremony took place in the grounds of the Castle with the Armed Forces flag raised by 7 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps (RLC), from Kendrew.

The Armed Forces community currently makes up over 15% of Rutland’s population. n

The best places to invest!

NEW REPORT IN THE TIMES HAS NAMED STAMFORD, UPPINGHAM & OUNDLE GREAT PLACES TO INVEST

STAMFORD A young fundraiser for the area’s Air Ambulance Service, Magpas, has been rewarded for her efforts with a tour of the air ambulance’s facility.

Hannah Trayford, aged eight, is from Stamford and has always wanted to be a paramedic. She also participated in last month’s Run a Mile a Day challenge, and has raised over £600 for the service. Hannah toured the base with Critical Care Paramedic Thomas Giddings. n

RUTLAND & STAMFORD The area we live in is a great place to live and work. Once again, that’s been proven with new research by The Times newspaper which identifies the best places to invest in 2022 and 2023.

House prices, infrastructure and job opportunities were all examined in the report, which name-checked Stamford, Uppingham and Oundle as three of the best places to move into and start a business.

The report noted that with an increase in ‘working from home,’ and venturing into office only occasionally, folk who work in London are especially likely to consider moving to the area. n

LOCAL

15,000 People

FLAG RAISING AT OAKHAM CASTLE TO MARK THE START OF ARMED FORCED WEEK

Fundraiser Hannah is rewarded by a Magpas tour...

RUTLAND The brand new Global Birdfair will launch as Pride goes to press, and organiser Tim Appleton hopes that it will attract 15,000 keen birdwatchers. Replacing the former Birdfair held at Rutland Water, the event will instead be held at the Rutland Showground, from Friday 15th - Sunday 17th July. n

Armed Forces Week

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

Town council seeking thoughts on a new museum...

Stamford Town Council is appealing for locals to get in touch with their ideas for the creation of a new museum.

“It has been a decade now since the museum on Broad Street closed. The Town Council and our local partners are developing a vision for what a museum for Stamford should be.

There is an amazing collection of objects in storage, so we’re seeking locals views and involvement as to how we can make the town’s history come to life.”

The council has launched a questionnaire via its website, or you can call 01780 753808. n 9

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NEWS & EVENTS

Helen’s map for Stamford in Bloom STAMFORD ILLUSTRATOR HELPS BRITAIN IN BLOOM TEAM FIND THEIR WAY STAMFORD Local illustrator Helen Cox has been helping the Britain In Bloom judges to navigate their way around Stamford with a new map pointing out all of the town’s floral hotspots.

Helen was born and raised in the town and founded Orange Pippin Illustration, an illustration and homewares company, dividing her time between Sheffield, where she studies, and Stamford.

Her Stamford map was commissioned by the Stamford In Bloom team headed up by Ann Ellis, and delivered in time for the judges to visit the town in June. After winning a bronze in 2018 and silver in 2019, Stamford in Bloom is going for gold in this year’s In Bloom competition. Residents, businesses, pubs and schools have all been taking part. n See www.orange-pippin.co.uk.

LOCAL NEWS In Brief VILLAGERS WHO LOVE THEIR PUB ARE KEEPING IT IN THE COMMUNITY The future’s local for villagers in Ufford who love their pub, The White Hart, so much that they’ve clubbed together to purchase it. Investments in its long term future have seen the community employ Leon Mace and Justine Hurley as the pub’s new managers. n

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Oakham’s entrepreneurs OAKHAM STUDENTS SET UP BUSINESSES IN THE SCHOOL’S GROUNDS FOR ENTERPRISE ACTIVITY

OAKHAM Young Oakham School entrepreneurs have been selling products to staff and pupils as part of a new business-led activity set up in memory of a former student.

Year 12 pupils created businesses, came up with ideas for a product to sell and then marketed it to the School ahead of the marketplace event. They then set up stalls on the School grounds in their teams and sold their chosen products to their audience.

The stalls included jewellery, fidget spinner pens and sticky ceiling balls, all of which were very popular with their target market. n

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CARLBY, LINCOLNSHIRE Guide Price £1,650,000

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

An immaculately presented, Grade II listed stone barn conversion on the edge of the Lincolnshire village of Carlby, halfway between Stamford and Bourne, is in an idyllic setting discreetly hidden from view and arranged around a central courtyard which opens out onto gently sloping, South-facing landscaped gardens and a paddock with open countryside views beyond. The barn dates back to the 1800s and retains many original features including historic arches, quoining as well as original king post trusses.

The proportions of the rooms are generous and the main living area is open-plan.

The interior offers flexible living; the east wing could easily be self-contained. The grounds extend to circa 1.8 acres: the front gravelled drive provides ample parking and it continues to the back, giving access into the paddock. The landscaped garden with mature trees and planting offers many lovely private spaces and the courtyard is the perfect socializing space being so close to the house.

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

Tel: +44(1)832 808 008 Email: oundle@fineandcountry.com

fineandcountry.com

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MORTON, LINCOLNSHIRE Guide Price £900,000

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

In an idyllic village setting, a fine, non-listed old former farmhouse with adjoining granary and adjacent former stable block as well as a large, separate barn in one corner of the enclosed grounds, provides five double bedrooms, the master with a spacious en suite, and two family bathrooms upstairs and three reception rooms and a large kitchen diner downstairs. The house is full of elegance and drama, rooms are with their fine proportions incorporating high ceilings and large Georgian sash windows.

The property is very private, once within the boundaries of the grounds, the enclosing walls, high hedges and mature trees provide a lovely backdrop and create sheltered seclusion. The outbuildings give potential to develop them further (subject to planning). The granary is now a studio reached by external stone steps with an integrated garage beneath, whilst the old stable block and the big separate barn offer all sorts of scope (STP).

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NEW

TEIGH

OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £1.10M

Beautifully refurbished and tastefully extended stone property situated in a picturesque village on a large plot with gardens and a grass paddock extending to approx. 1.9 A. The property has undergone an extensive, high-spec programme of building works with property offering today contemporary accommodation with a wealth of character. Lounge, Study, open-plan Kitchen/Diner & Sitting Room, WC, Utility, 4 Dbl bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms. Energy Rating: TBC.

NEW

KETTON

£610,000

Stunning barn conversion providing stylish and well-proportioned accommodation equipped to an exceptional standard and situated next to the church in a much sought-after village close to the historic market town of Stamford. Sitting Room, Dining Kitchen, Cloakroom/WC, 3 Bedrooms, Master En-suite Shower Room and Bathroom. Single Garage, Picturesque Courtyard Garden. Energy Rating: C.

NEW PRICE

COTTESMORE

OFFERS AROUND £635,000

LANGHAM

£750,000

Picture postcard detached thatched cottage with a wealth of inherent character occupying an established plot with a delightful cottage garden and ample parking next to the village church. The property has been beautifully maintained with sympathetically presented accommodation featuring an inglenook fireplace, exposed ceiling beams and latch doors. Sitting Room, Office, Family Room, 2 WCs, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, 4 Bedrooms, En-suite Shower Room, Bathroom. Energy Rating: TBC.

Fantastic detached family home offering extensive contemporary accommodation appointed to a high standard throughout and set on a large south-facing plot within the prestigious Rutland village of Langham. 2 Reception Rooms, Office, Study, open-plan Kitchen/Diner, Utility, 2 Cloakrooms/WCs, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath-/Shower Rooms, Double Garage, Ample Parking, Private Gardens. Energy Rating: D.

SEATON

MANTON

£595,000

Immaculately presented barn-style character property with established gardens enjoying countryside views situated in a picturesque Rutland village. The property was built in 2008 and offers well-proportioned accommodation tastefully appointed and equipped to a high standard throughout. Sitting Room, shaker-style Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm/WC, 3 Bedrooms, en-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; off-road Parking, elevated rear Garden with views. Energy Rating: C.

GUIDE PRICE £549,000

A brand new four bedroom detached family home, located on the edge of one of Rutland's premium villages, close to Rutland Water, and enjoying rural views over open fields to the rear.

The property is currently in the final stages of construction. Sitting Room, Kitchen/Diner, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms; Car Port, Garden. Energy Rating: TBC.

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Guide Price £800,000

Guide Price £750,000

Main Road, Seaton

Stone House, Market Overton

A beautiful, four-bedroom character home, sitting in an elevated position with countryside views in the heart of this popular South-Rutland village.

A substantial, four-bedroom village home with wonderfully flexible accommodation, sitting in a quiet position within this popular village.

Offers In Excess: £475,000

Offers In Excess £375,000

Kayfen, Witham on the Hill

Pied Calf Cottage, Lyddington

An immaculately-presented, beautifully refurbished and extended three-bedroom bungalow with a separate annex/home office.

A characterful, iron-stone, Grade II listed three-bedroom cottage sitting in an elevated position with a pretty South-West facing garden.

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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 821 034

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Splash Lane, Castor, Peterborough, PE5 7BD

www.countrycourtcare.com

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PROPERTY FINDERS

The Great British Standoff...

Professional Buying Agent Kate Vincent explains how the dynamics of the local property market are starting to change and what this means for buyers and sellers alike.

Whilst the news over the past year or so has been far from rosy, the UK property market has remained surprisingly resilient to wider events. Much of this has been fuelled by the stark imbalance between buyer demand and the supply of homes for sale, clearly demonstrated by Zoopla’s recent research, which cited demand being 58% higher and supply 40% lower than the five-year averages.

However, after nearly two years of frantic activity in the local property market, there are some early signs that the mayhem has begun to abate. To be clear, this doesn’t mean a full shift to a buyers’ market, nor that good properties priced sensibly will not go under offer in a matter of days, but there is a distinct air of caution creeping into the market.

So, what has changed?

Daily reports of a cost-of-living crisis and increases to interest rates have inevitably had the effect of dampening consumer confidence and are biting into disposable income. These factors combined are expected to translate into a levelling off across the property market, both in terms of price growth and transaction levels. Whilst there is no suggestion of a crash, the descent to a ‘soft landing’ may well have just begun.

What does this mean for the local property market?

There is some evidence that many homeowners are hanging onto last year’s boom benchmark values as some properties are still being offered to the market (or indeed off-market) with an unrealistic price tag. Increasingly though, buyers are looking to factor in the risk of an uncertain economic future. This means that until the most recent transaction data starts to work through into house price indices in 3-4 months’ time, an increasing level of differing opinions between sellers and buyers about what now constitutes ‘fair market value’ seems inevitable on some property negotiations.

In a changing market, these sentiments are harder to manage, underlining the need for independent and objective advice. A local buying agent is best placed to help you make sense of the market, with advice tailored to your personal plans, the property types being considered and specific locations.

Speaking to local selling agents, the consensus is that whilst new properties being launched onto the market are still obtaining a great deal of attention, some buyers are trimming back their top-end budgets and looking more closely at the potential running costs.

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

Buying in a changing market Success in the property market largely hinges on buyers and sellers being able to meet each other ‘halfway’ in a transaction that is often laden with emotion, innate bias, and a fear of ‘getting it wrong’.

Garrington’s property consultants help purchasers source and acquire properties that meet their lifestyle requirements. Their local expertise and in-depth knowledge of the local property market assists homebuyers to make well informed property purchasing decisions.

Kate Vincent Garrington

Tel. 01780 408377.

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

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Here for all your needs...

Free Auction Appraisals We offer free professional advice on items you wish to sell.

Free Home Visits Our valuers will help with house clearance advice or large collection dispersal.

Advisory Days We have regular days at our Bourne, Grantham, Lincoln, Louth & Stamford offices.

Do not hesitate & contact us now!

The hallmark of a professional auction house offering executor client advice & The Grantham Auction Rooms The Bourne Auction Rooms The Lincoln Auction Rooms & private services for valuation, auction sale & property clearance 01476 565118 01778 422686 01522 524984

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Tel:01780 250000

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

Rosa Sepple PPRI | High on Love | Mixed Media | 22” x 30” | £4675

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 20

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ART AND ANTIQUES IN RUTLAND AND STAMFORD

Art & Antiques Image: Artemisia Gentileschi’s self-portrait. Meet the artist in virtual reality at Burghley House this month.

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ANTIQUES & ART

COLIN YOUNG, TV AUCTIONEER

Auctioneer and valuer Colin Young brings the gavel down on about 70,000 lots each year, and hosts monthly sales across the region, assisting private clients to sell their items and helping others to curate their own collections of art, antiques and modern collectables...

Everything has a value, but nothing we’ve come across is quite as valuable as Colin Young’s advice, especially when it comes to buying or selling art, antiques and modern collectables, something he’s been doing for nearly 35 years.

Paying a visit to Colin’s sale rooms – the company has premises in Bourne and an office in Stamford – is a real treat because you never know quite what you’re going to find... and for a keen browser, that’s a good thing, but the more focused buyer might want to be a little more meticulous and view each sale’s online catalogue first.

Colin was born and raised in Thurlby near Bourne and began working at Bourne Auction Rooms from the age of 18. He quickly discovered he loved live in the sale room – perhaps for the same reasons his buyers do; you never know what you’re going to find – and spent three years there before moving to Goldings of Grantham, established back in 1900.

“There’s a thin line between an auctioneer and an anarchist,” he says. “It’s important to engage with the audience, make them feel the atmosphere and the excitement of the sale room.”

“It’s a unique and fun place to be, and the more of a buzz there is, the more of an exciting atmosphere, the better the reflection on the business.”

Banging the

Hammer Colin and the team reckon they bring the hammer down on over 70,000 lots each year.

The company hosts general or ‘collective’ sales in Grantham, Bourne and in Lincoln every month.

Working his way up in the company, and spending over five years of his career managing the sale room, Colin joined the business to form Golding Young in 1994, and the firm merged with Thomas Mawer & Son in 2010 to complete the firm’s nomenclature.

In 2012, the company opened its Stamford office, and added Louth to its list of sale rooms in 2016.

Naturally the past few years have presented difficulties for a type of business which has traditionally relied on filling the sale room with crowds of people.

Fortunately we live in an age where, as well as people buying at a sale in person, there are simultaneous telephone and internet bids coming in life.

During lockdown, Colin was able to host sales online, and made the best of the situation with good humour... people were also stuck at home and so in that sense, there was a captive audience out there.

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However, nothing beats the pace and humour of the sales room, and that’s undoubtedly why Colin has been so successful over the past 33 years he’s been in the industry.

“After that, achieving good prices for the seller will take care of itself and buyers will enjoy the experience.”

That’s not to say, though, that mere charisma will get you though life as an auctioneer. “It’s necessary to be technically brilliant,” Colin admits.

“After all, you’ve live bids, phone bids and internet-bids all coming in simultaneously, so you have to be aware of what’s going on and count forward.”

Nonetheless, in contrast to the idea that sale rooms are austere and only for antiques buffs, Colin is always happy when people discover the fun for the first time.

“Some people are still intimidated by the auction room, by the myth that you’ll scratch your nose and buy a Rembrandt, but the reality is we’re here for both seller and buyer, and it’s in our interest to make the experience fun and lively and likable.”

“The banter you can have, bringing people in, reading their body language and the humour are all part of the sale experience.”

Colin now employs over 40 people. After all, in addition to hosting the sales, there’s stock to pick up, assess, deliver to buyers and catalogues to compile. >>

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Buying at an Auction House...

Facts & Figures

n Do it! Purchasing at an auction is a fun – it’s rather addictive in fact – and your prospective purchase will have been assessed by an expert beforehand. n Research the sale beforehand, and view your prospective purchases noting the lot number. Set a budget – perhaps with a contingency – for larger purchases, and take along a print out of the auction catalogue, proof of ID and address and the ability to make payment which is always due on sale day. n You can make an Absentee (Commission) bid prior to the sale if you can’t be there in person, or a bid via telephone or online, live. Auction houses like Golding Young Mawer can deliver items to you, after the sale, too.

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ANTIQUES & ART

COLIN YOUNG, TV AUCTIONEER

>> He’s proud of the team and how they adapted to life under lockdown, but one particular member of staff stood out. “Kirsty, my daughter, has been working here for 10 years, having come along for work experience and finding herself instantly hooked on the buzz of the sales room environment.”

“She’s completed her junior exams and she’s absolutely flourished. Her decision making is always absolutely spot on, and when the going gets tough – as it did when we were going into lockdown – she really is tough and she gets on with it.”

Colin even concedes that her jokes and banter as the gavel comes down are as good as his, which is good news for the seller and buyer.

“Getting stock is the easy bit,” says Colin. “Private individuals, liquidations of businesses, estate clearances… it’s a real misconception that you have to send off a huge amount to the auction room.”

“In fact, many of our lots are single items, and we’re always happy to visit those who are downsizing from large properties or redesigning their homes and want to have a single item or just a couple of bits valued for sale; we’re always happy to advise.”

The company sells around 70,000 lots each year and undertakes about 8,500 vendor consignments annually, with monthly collective sales as well as specialist sales for fine art, Asian arts and ceramics, even September’s toy, transport and automobilia sale.

Technology has also brought online auction sites.

Has that damaged the industry? No, says Colin.

In fact, it’s separated the wheat from the chaff and proven that services of proper auction houses are more reliable than ever.

“You can pay a commission to online sites, and do all the work yourself,” says Colin. “Or you can pay us to do all the work; collect the item, photograph it, catalogue it, process the sale, publicise it and collect the funds with the security of RICS regulation.”

“The public realise that it makes sense to entrust items to professionals, especially when they’re seeking a

professional valuation for an item, or when dealing with specialist items.

Colin’s successes include a cello which sold to a Canadian collector for £11,000, a sideboard which sold for a cool £135,000 and a James Campbell painting which was sold to the Tate Modern Gallery for £15,000. The firm’s antiques and fine art department has valued about £40,000,000 of items over the past five years or so.

Valuation in particular is tricky, but if you’ve only chance to achieve a good price for your item, and as Colin represents both buyer and seller, you’re in much safer hands with a professional... and as a buyer, you can access a wider range an a higher quality of stock, meaning a better experience, and of course, the chance to enjoy Colin’s banter, or if you’re really fortunate, Kirsty’s! n

Colin Young has 33 years experience as an auctioneer based at Golding Young, established in 1864. The company has sale rooms in Bourne, Grantham and Lincoln, and offices in Stamford and Louth. For no-obligation advice, valuations and to view catalogues of future sales online, see www.goldingyoung.com or call 01778 422686.

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How To Buy

Antiques... n Today, used term antiques is used interchangeably with vintage or collectable items. Some dealers of antiques use the ‘100 years old’ rule to determine what they consider differentiates an antique (over a century old) from vintage and collectable items... though no absolute definition exists. n Age, rarity, quality, historical significance and current tastes all effect value, but no factor is more important than how abundant an item is. Following he rule of supply and demand, the rarer, more specific or more difficult to obtain something is, the greater its value. n One thing that almost all experts do agree on is that you should only ever buy items that you love, not simply on the expectation of their appreciation in value. Fashions come and go, but if you purchase something you enjoy owning there’s always a good justification for its purchase. n TV programmes teach you to haggle... but antiques dealers need to make a living, and one local dealer told us that their pet peeve is overzealous customers making outrageously low offers... a sure-fire way of not securing the piece you have your eye on!

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ART IN VIRTUAL REALITY AT BURGHLEY HOUSE

A Modern Way to Enjoy

BAROQUE ART AT BURGHLEY Extraordinary artist Artemisia Gentileschi’s work comes to life at Burghley House this month in a truly unique exhibition, which takes place using virtual reality tech to place the viewer right inside the studio of the baroque artist once called ‘The Beyoncé of art history...’

IT’S AN ART EXHIBITION... with a difference!

This month Burghley House invites you to take a trip back in time and across the ocean to Baroque Italy, without ever leaving Stamford!

Your destination is the studio of the artist variously described by ‘the Beyoncé of baroque art,’ as ‘art history’s greatest heroine,’ and as ‘thrilling and magnificent.’

Artemisia Gentileschi was born in July 1593 to Prudenzia di Ottaviano Montoni and the Tuscan painter Orazio Gentileschi, originally from Pisa, but who moved to Rome when his own work found fame.

Following the death of her mother in 1605, Artemisia was raised solely by her father, who by all accounts doted on her, perhaps because the two shared a love of drawing, mixing colours and learning how to paint.

By the age of 18 her father boasted that she was peerless in her field, matching – or perhaps improving upon – her father’s style which was itself influenced by Caravaggio.

Artemisia’s earliest surviving work is Susanna and the Elders which depicts the biblical story of the same name. But a year later, the artist was assaulted by one of her father’s colleagues, the artist Tassi, and a

trial ensued in which Artemisia’s status as a virgin was questioned over seven harrowing months, during which she was even tortured with thumbscrews to verify her testimony.

Perhaps because of this experience a huge amount of her work depicts strong or suffering women and anguish.

Almost immediately after the ordeal of the trial, Artemisia moved to Florence and was the first woman to be accepted into the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno.

The artist befriended Galileo Galilei and also became familiar with music, theatre and fashion – her work is reputed to feature among the most lavish clothing of the Baroque period. >>

Above: Burghley’s VR experience. Right: Artemisia Gentileschi’s self-portrait, Self-Portrait as a Lute Player.

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VIRTUAL REALITY ART AT BURGHLEY HOUSE

Burghley House’s 1652 painting Susannah and the Elders, is described by Jon Culverhouse as ‘one of the jewels in the crown’ of the estate’s art collection...’ >> Returning to Rome in 1620, Artemisia found great wealth, and was among the most in demand of artists at the time, her Carrivagist style and use of chiaroscuro yielding work like Judith and Her Maidservant and Annunciation.

Artemisia moved to Naples in 1630, and eight years later, joined her father in London in the court of Charles I. The two worked together on allegories and the king was himself a fan of Artemisia’s work.

The death of her father in 1939 and the English Civil War saw Artemisia return to Naples and it’s believed that she died around 1652, survived by a daughter named Palmira, who was also a painter.

Curiously, Artemisia’s work was largely forgotten until the late 20th century, and most recently London’s National Gallery’s 2020 exhibition of her work was lauded by the art work with the BBC’s Will Gompertz questioning ‘whether there has even been a better, bolder painter of human drama.’

The Guardian’s Jonathan Jones stated that Artemisia’s work is a ‘thrill ride from beginning to end,’ and Alastair Sooke writing in The Telegraph remarked that the artist was ‘art history’s greatest heroine.’

Burghley House is proud to own Artemisia’s 1652 painting Susannah and the Elders, with the estate’s curator of exhibitions Jon Culverhouse describing the painting as ‘one of the jewels in the crown of the Burghley art collection.’

That’s why, this month, the estate is inviting visitors to enjoy an exhibition of Artemisia Gentileschi’s work... but with a difference.

Visitors will embark on a virtual reality experience, putting on a headset and totally immersing themselves in the story of Artemisia Gentileschi in her studio.

Right: Susanna and the Elders, 1610, earliest of her surviving works.

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“Narrated by musician and author, Cerys Matthews, The Light in the Shadow is experienced through virtual reality headsets and explores the fascinating story of one of today’s most celebrated Baroque artists,” says Jon. “The 14-minute experience follows Artemisia’s journey as she navigates a world where women have virtually no rights to become one of Europe’s most accomplished and in-demand painters of her time who continues to capture imaginations today.”

“In the virtual reality experience, an unprecedented collection of Artemisia’s work is gathered into a single experience, where each viewer can admire the work in their own immersive world. One special piece which features in the experience is Burghley House’s very own Artemisia Gentileschi painting Susannah and the Elders.”

“Purchased by the ninth Earl of Exeter whilst in Rome, the 400-year-old painting is Artemisia’s earliest-known work. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to view the historic painting which will be on display in the House for the duration of the exhibition.”

“The painting is not normally on public display at Burghley, so it is a unique chance to view this extraordinary piece of art.” >>

Above: Judith Slaying Holofernes, 1614–1620.

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VIRTUAL REALITY ART AT BURGHLEY HOUSE

>> The Light in the Shadow has been created by UK based film and immersive production companies, Fat Red Bird (run

by Gaëlle Mourre) and Monkey Frame (run by Quentin Darras) and co-produced by award-winning British writer, director, and producer Charlotte Mikkelborg.

“It’s the latest episode in a (Hi)Story of a Painting series co-created by artist and filmmakers Gaëlle Mourre and Quentin Darras, with each episode focusing on a renowned painter,” says Jon. “It’s aimed at engaging new audiences with art by creating accessible and relatable experiences, the series focuses on the human stories behind some of the world’s most iconic art.”

“The visuals and virtual environment appear in support of the narration, helping to illustrate and anchor the narrator’s story in the viewer’s mind.”

“The collection of fine art owned by Burghley House is extensive and varied, and includes many highly important objects...”

Co-creators Mourre and Darras said: “It’s such a treat to get to show our piece in as remarkable a place as this, one that offers viewers a rare opportunity for holistic immersion.”

“To start the transition from the physical world into the virtual world before even putting on a headset is integral to a rich virtual reality experience and Burghley House naturally allows for this - the history, architecture and magnificent scenery create a wonderful sense of displacement.”

The Light in the Shadow’s Co-producer, Charlotte Mikkelborg, added: “Burghley’s

brilliant Curator Jon Culverhouse has been a key supporter of the project since I first reached out to him in September 2021.

With Burghley House’s incredible art collection, from works as imposing as Verrio’s Hell Staircase to exquisite miniatures like The Virgin and Child by Artemisia’s father Orazio, we are beyond excited to be able to bring our VR experience here.”

The collection of fine art owned by Burghley House is extensive and varied, and includes many highly important objects.

For instance the collection of Italian Old Master paintings is one of the finest in private hands. The collections of both Oriental and European ceramics are world famous and of great interest to scholars.

Fine English and continental furniture, 17th century Objects of Vertu, English portrait miniatures and European Works of Art all feature strongly, as does Artemesia’s own Susannah and the Elders. n

The virtual reality experience ‘The Light in the Shadow’, featuring the life and work of Artemisia Gentileschi, will run at Burghley House until 31st August (excluding Fridays). Tickets are £10 per person, available to book online at www.burghley.co.uk or purchase on the day. Visit Burghley House, PE9 3JY. For more information call 01780 752451.

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Portrait of a Lady, dressed in a gold embroidered costume, early 1620s.

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ANTIQUES & ART 1. St Martin’s Antiques

2. Claire Langley

LOCATED ON ST MARTINS, in Stamford, St Martin’s Antiques brings together over 70 dealers in one centre. Founded in 1993 by Peter Light and now run by daughter Lucinda Silcock, it’s based in the former Pick Motor Works. n High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 481158 or see www.st-martins-antiques.co.uk.

CLAIRE LANGLEY ANTIQUES is based in the centre of Stamford and run by antique dealer Claire Langley, who has over 30 years of dealing experience. Antiques from all periods, classic 20th century pieces can sit quite happily alongside period antiques.

St Martin’s Antiques.

n Radcliffe Road Stamford PE9 1ED. Call 01780 592 599 or see www.clairelangleyantiques.co.uk.

3. Arts & Antiques BASED IN UPPINGHAM, Mark and Diane (and Goldendoodle, Charlie) have curated a collection of modern antiques in their Crown Passage shop, including pop music themed memorabilia, militaria and also photographic art by Mark Hayward.

Arts & Antiques.

n Crown Passage, Uppingham.

Call 01572824011 or see shop.rutlandantiques.co.uk.

Claire Langley Antiques.

4. Uppingham Antiques

5. Second to None

LOCATED ON HIGH STREET EAST, The Uppingham Antiques Centre has a fantastic selection of antiques of all varieties from over 50 dealers.

Furniture, clocks, architectural, porcelain, rugs, glass, equestrian, treen, boxes, mirrors, shabby chic, objects, objects de vertu, silver...

NEIL SCHOLES started this eclectic salvage yard and second hand centre back in 1999. A great name to know for furniture ready to upcycle, stone planters and vintage garden decorations as well as vintage/retro items and architectural antiques.

n High Street East, Uppingham LE15 9PY. Call 01572 822155.

Uppingham Antiques.

n Old Great Road, Stamford Call 07989 133362 or visit www.secondtononestamford.com.

6. Garden Classics RUTLAND GARDEN CLASSICS is run by Chris & Sharon Hamilton and is based on Oakham’s Pillings Road.

Stone troughs, garden planters, wrought iron benches, statues, cast iron urns, cast iron planters, chimney pots, large terracotta pots and all manner of architectural salvage.

Rutland Garden Classics.

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n Call 01572 720070 or see www.rutlandgardenclassics.co.uk.

Second to None.

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In The Frame:

7. Adrian Hill Fine Art

THE EVENT GALLERY’S FRAMING SERVICE

ADRIAN HILL FINE ART first opened in July 2013 and has since opened a new gallery on The Mews adjacent to The George of Stamford to showcase quality and diverse works from private collections and modern British painters. Artists include Lowry and David Hockney. n Call 01780 480800, or see www.adrianhillfineart.com.

Bespoke framing for your fine art and other memorabilia...

Deborah Walker, From The Eye, £3,800 at Adrian Hill Fine Art.

8. Queen Street Gallery REBECCA IVATT’S Queen Street Gallery in Uppingham opened its doors in May 2022. Rebecca works from the studio and hosts fine art classes too. She’s hoping to host exhibitions of other artists’ work and display sculpture in the future.

Queen Street Gallery.

9. Gladwells Rutland

n Queen Street, Uppingham, LE15 9QR. Call 07788 664779 or see www.queenstreetgallery.co.uk.

Anthony Fuller of Gladwell & Patterson.

THE SISTER GALLERY of Gladwell & Patterson on London’s Beauchamp Place, Gladwells Rutland features fine art from names like David Shepherd, Cuneo, Munnings and Seago.

Founded by Anthony Fuller and now managed by Cory Fuller on Oakham’s Mill Street.

Previously David has been so busy framing Kay’s own work that they’ve been unable to accommodate any external framing work, but with fewer country shows in the diary they’re now able to make their bespoke framing service available to customers with their own paintings, textiles, memorabilia and other pieces that require professional framing.

n Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA. 01572 756518, gladwellpatterson.com.

10. Goldmark Gallery SPECIALISING in art, ceramics, and publishing catalogues and insights into featured artists. Goldmark specialising in bringing names like ceramicist Anne Mette Hjortshøj to Uppingham. Established 40 years ago by Mike Goldmark.

Goldmark Gallery.

Picture Framer David Ball has always added the perfect finishing touch to artist partner Kay’s artwork, specialising in the fine art framing of her hand-painted work featuring animals from the Lincolnshire countryside.

n Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ. Call 01572 821424 or see www.goldmarkart.com.

With the ability to accommodate bespoke frame sizes, plus around 80 different mouldings all in stock, and many mounts, David can custom-cut mounts for medals and music memorabilia and seals each piece to prevent any deterioration, as well as using anti-reflective glass to ensure your treasured piece can always be displayed at its best. n Call 01529 240529 to discuss your bespoke framing requirements or see www.theeventgallery.co.uk

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R E T R E AT AT S

B o o k a r e l a x i n g , h a s s l e f r e e s t aayy w i t h B a r e f o o t R e t r e a t s t h i s s u m m e r.

Experience some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, award winning restaurants, a summer calendar full of amazing events and attractions. With plenty of fa fantastic shopping, Nor th Norfolk has everything you need for the perfect summer holiday. Whether you’re looking for a cosyy cottage by the beach, a dog-friendly ffaamily retreat, a big and beautiful bar n conversion, or fancy a staayy at The Railwaayy, our boutique hotel in Bur nham Mark fa M et, w wee’ll help you find the perfect staayycation this year.

T O REQ UES T OUR 2 0 2 2 BR OC H U RE AN D D IS CO VER Y OUR EX C LUS I VE C O ASTAL RETREAT SCAN H E R E …

Luxury lodges, great fun and a superb return on investment!

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Live on site all year round, achieve great rental returns or retain your lodge for family & friends to enjoy.

Four fantastic sites including Tallington Lakes, Tanner Farm Park, Thorney and Great Hadham On-site watersports and leisure facilities, beautiful surroundings

www.goodlifelodge.com • info@goodlifelodge.com • 0800 564 2266 • Barholm Road, Tallington, PE9 4RJ 34

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“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful" - William Morris

H-works Interiors • INTERIOR DESIGN

• UPHOLSTERY

• CURTAINS & BLINDS

• LIFESTYLE

33 ST. MARY'S STREET | STAMFORD | LINCOLNSHIRE | PE9 2DS 01780 754605 | www.hworksdesign.co.uk | Insta @h_works_interiors OPEN: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 - 4.30, Sunday Closed, Monday by Appointment

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SELF-CATERING HOLIDAYS IN NORTH NORFOLK

Luxury Staycations in Norfolk A superb break and some summer sun with very little travelling, no airport departure lounges, and a concierge service on hand to ensure you make the most of your time away. Welcome to the world of Barefoot Retreats, and a North Norfolk portfolio of 100 luxury self-catering properties...

Words: Rob Davis. Properties Featured: Barefoot Retreats, call 01485 512245 or see www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

A luxury getaway without the hassle. That’s what Barefoot Retreats aims to offer those seeking a break in North Norfolk with no departure lounges, no jet lag, just Great British sunshine and spectacular coastlines.

Barefoot Retreats was established in 2014 and now curates a portfolio of over 100 examples of privately-owned self-catering accommodation in and around North Norfolk, favouring the quirkiest or most luxurious properties you’re likely to find anywhere else.

From lovenests for romantic getaways to large family-friendly country homes to accommodate special occasions, to quirky options like converted watermills, penthouses and railway carriages, plus dog-friendly options, the company’s properties are available for short breaks and for seven-day bookings.

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North Norfolk’s villages are renowned for their character, independent shops, superb country pubs and restaurants, and there are many beaches and attractions to enjoy from Holkham Hall to the royal residence of Sandringham.

Meanwhile, Barefoot Retreats itself has a concierge service which can help with anything from restaurant bookings to accessing babysitting services, to organising a private chef to cater for you in your own property, ensuring that every visit is tailored to your exact wishes.

With so many properties in its collection, prior booking is usually your best bet, but if you’d like an ad hoc break, there are late-notice options too, ensuring the best accommodation and a relaxing break, without the hassle... >>

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THE WATERMILL: Burnham Market...

The Watermill is a Grade II listed Georgian watermill with enchanting and quintessentially English views over the millpond.

Having been lovingly restored in previous years, this stunning property now offers spacious, luxury accommodation whilst also preserving the building’s heritage and original features. The accommodation is arranged over four floors and can sleep up to 10 guests in six en suite bedrooms.

The Mill was constructed in 1737 on the River Burn and was notable as one of only two mills in Norfolk to be powered by both wind and water from the same site. Called the Union Mill as a result of this, the building remained in use for over 200 years.

Just a 10-minute walk to the centre of the village, staying at the mill means you’re a stone’s throw from over 30 independent shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants, providing all the necessities of everyday life; this includes a butcher, deli, fresh fish shop, traditional sweet shop and wine merchant.

There are two pubs, The Hoste Arms and The Nelson, two tea rooms, and two unique restaurants; No29 and Socius.

The Watermill also has its resident Swans and Derek the duck... who is usually to be found hanging around for a hearty breakfast!

Guide Price: From £2,650 based on seven nights, sleeping up to 10 people, dogs welcome. n

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“We now have over 100 properties in our portfolio, and they’re all beautifully presented and quirky. Some are really large and can accommodate big family celebrations. Others are fantastic lovenests that suit romantic weekends away. There’s something for everyone, and plenty to do in North Norfolk whether your passion is good food, nature, great shopping or a day enjoying the sunshine on the beach!”

Brittany, Barefoot Retreats’ Reservations Team Leader.

THE CARRIAGE: Burnham Market...

All aboard this quirky property based in Burnham Market. The Carriage offers guests something a little different and the chance to stay within a converted carriage.

Departing for its final journey in 1952, the carriage has since been restored to its former glory and in 2021, it has received the care and attention it deserves including complete renovation and decoration of the external woodwork, treatment and decoration to all the furniture, fittings and also the wooden flooring.

Situated on the ground floor, this stunning king-sized bedroom has been thoughtfully decorated to maintain its character and charm.

At the front of the carriage, you will find the large walk-in rainfall shower, complete with a deep copper sink and copper fittings.

Barefoot Retreats even managed to restore and reuse the original sink... it was simply to beautiful to not use!

Originally the Old Station Master’s House, The Railway has been completely renovated and refurbished in 2021 to offer guests a stylish stay in the renowned Burnham Market.

Set just a stone’s throw from the busy and vibrant village centre, you can take advantage of the

numerous restaurants and eateries within the Burnham Market. You’re only a 10 minute drive from the beaches at Brancaster, Holkham or Wells-next-the-Sea and so a beach walk is a must!

The Railway also offers a communal lounge with varied, comfortable and stylish seating, complete with an honesty bar, providing the perfect backdrop to your stay!

Guide Price: From £75/night, based on off-peak dates. Dogs welcome, Over 100 seven additional rooms available within The Railway, please call for further details on 01485 512245. n Barefoot Retreats has over

Barefoot Retreats

100 properties in its portfolio of luxury self-catering accommodation options, from large properties to lovenests, and quirky properties as well. There’s plenty to do in North Norfolk, as you’ll discover over the page!

n All of the featured properties here are managed by Barefoot Retreats, call 01485 512245 or see www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

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THE PENTHOUSE: Brancaster...

Set in a private complex just off the ‘coast road,’ this peaceful retreat is perfectly placed within walking distance to the expansive sands at Brancaster beach, the Royal Golf Club, the coastal footpath, village shop and The Ship Hotel restaurant. Sleeping up to five guests in three elegant bedrooms, this peaceful sanctuary is sure to impress, with all your troubles melting away from the moment you arrive!

To the front of the apartment building there is an allocated patio area with an outdoor dining set and a large hanging egg chair – perfect for relaxing in during the summer months!

Guide Price: From £775, based on seven nights, sleeping five, dogs welcome. n

HOPE HOUSE: Snettisham...

Sleeping 16 people in comfort, Hope House is a big and beautiful country home. This Grade II listed building has undergone an extensive, full renovation with spectacular results. Bring friends and family together for a unique experience where you will have everything you need under one roof. Walking distance from two renowned eateries, The Old Bank (a Michelin star bistro), and awardwinning pub, The Rose & Crown.

Eight bedrooms, games/cinema room, large garden with croquet lawn, BBQ and Norfolk’s oldest sundial!

Guide Price: From £2,200, based on 10 people, seven nights. n

ROSE COTTAGE: Docking...

Located in Docking, Rose Cottage is perfect for a romantic weekend away. It’s a cute and characterful traditional Norfolk cottage within easy reach of the North Norfolk coast and just seven minutes from Brancaster Beach.

Offering a well-equipped contemporary kitchen and a comfortable lounge and dining area plus a king size bedroom plus an enclosed garden and off-road parking. The village has a shop, fish ‘n’ chip shop and The Duck Inn is nearby.

Guide Price: From £610, based on seven nights, two people, dogs welcome. n

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SKIPPERS: Brancaster...

Modern and perfect for families, Skippers is one of five newly built properties in a small exclusive development nestled in the heart of Brancaster. Sleeping eight people, Skippers is a very stylish detached four bedroom property that has been finished to the highest of standards. Tastefully furnished to provide a perfect mix of open-plan living space and generous accommodation, including a sumptuous master bedroom suite. Also offering off-road parking, a fully enclosed garden and it’s dog friendly too... what more could you possibly want?

Guide Price: From £1,395 based on seven nights, eight guests. n

CHARNWOOD COTTAGE Located in Burnham Market, and sleeping six people, if you are looking for relaxed, laid-back luxury then Charnwood Cottage is the place for you! Having been tastefully refurbished, this sophisticated cottage has a great open plan living space for socialising with the family, a tranquil courtyard garden and a stylish annexe that just adds the charm of Charnwood Cottage!

Ideally located just a short walk from the vibrant village green with its array of independent shops and eateries, yet away from the hustle and bustle so that you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity afforded by traditional village life. The main house has two charming bedrooms and a great open plan living space for entertaining and socialising with your family and friends. There is also a stylish self-contained annexe set at the end of the garden with its own bedroom, lounge, bathroom and kitchenette area, perfect for those wanting their own space while not being too far away from the action!

Guide Price: From £795, seven nights. n

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COASTAL CHARM: North Norfolk’s Coastal Heritage...

The North Norfolk Coastline consists of more than 45 miles of unspoilt coastline with six Blue Flag beaches, East and West Runton, Comer, Mundesley, Sea Palling and Sheringham. These, along with the following, are our coastal highlights for visitors to the area... n Heacham & Hunstanton: Striped cliffs add an unusual sense of beauty to this Victorian resort. Large sandy beaches, rock pools and a shallow, sheltered bay... great for families. n Brancaster: Golden sands, dog-friendly stretches and tidal salty marshes make Brancaster beach popular with those enjoying long walks and activities like kite-surfing. n Holkham: If you’re a nature-lover, Holkham has a shoreline basin which fills to form a shallow lagoon with many rare species of flora and fauna, creating a nature reserve of national renown. n Wells-next-the-sea: Colourful beach huts and a sandy beach make Wells especially popular with families. There’s a lovely pine walk along the edge, too.

A Grand Day Out...

NORFOLK LAVENDER

Founded in 1932 and renowned worldwide, with nearly 100 acres under cultivation. n www.norfolk-lavender.co.uk

HOLKHAM HALL AND ESTATE

n Sheringham: Picturesque cliffs and a pretty, pebbly beach. www.visitnorthnorfolk.com

A magnificent stately home, with rolling parkland and a host of attractions and events. n www.holkham.co.uk

DINING OUT IN NORFOLK: Restaurants & Local Food...

NORTH NORFOLK STEAM RAILWAY

n TAPAS/FINE DINING: No29 is a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving a modern British interpretation of tapas, which are also suitable for sharing. Lots of local produce used. Based at Burnham Market.

Foundary Place, Burnham Market, PE31 8LG, 01328 738307, www.sociusnorfolk.co.uk. n WHITE HORSE: Based at Brancaster Staithe, The White Horse provides lots of al fresco dining opportunities, including a brand new Marshside seafood bar. Elsewhere, lobster with thermidor sauce, 40-day aged sirloin, gourmet fish ‘n’ chips and seafood platters, as well as a huge range of speciality gins.

Main Road, Brancaster Staithe, PE31 8BY, 01485 210262, www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk n ROSE & CROWN: Award-winning village pub based at Snettisham, with twisting passages and hidden corners, low ceilings and old beams, pamment floors and log fires, excellent beers, friendly staff and a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Children welcome. Trio of Norfolk Lamb and BBQ pork belly are a treat!

Old Church Road, Snettisham PE31 7LX, 01485 541382, www.roseandcrownsnettisham.co.uk. n ERICS: The best fish ‘n’ chips in the world. Try a deep-fried Creme Egg or deep-fried jam sandwich!

Three beautifully restored scenic stations, running from Sheringham to Holt. n www.nnrailway.co.uk

SANDRINGHAM HOUSE, NORFOLK

Fish Hill, Holt NR25 6BD, 01485 525886, www.ericsfishandchips.com. n SWIRL: The best ice cream in the world! Double cream, soft served. E.g.: Eton Mess sundaes. Wow! Staithe St, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AQ, 07368 642735, see @swirlnorfolk on Instagram.

n All of the featured properties over the past two spreads are managed by Barefoot Retreats, providing luxurious and comfortable self-catering in North Norfolk with a choice of over 100 properties. For up to the minute prices, booking enquiries and more information, call 01485 512245 or see www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen, with woodland, and shopping. n www.sandringhamestate.co.uk

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ONLINE STORE L A N D S C A P E D D I S P L AY S I N S P I R AT I O N A L G A R D E N S WAT E R F E AT U R E S • P L A N T E R S • B I R D B AT H S • S C U L P T U R E S • T I L E S • F L A G S T O N E S

W E S T H E A D FA R M , S T O W B R I D G E , P E 3 4 3 N J 01366 381069

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THE VILLAGE: CLIPSHAM

A Stone’s Throw From

CLIPSHAM The village of Clipsham, in typical Rutland style, offers much in little, with beauty spots made from former quarries, idyllic cottages and of course its Michelin-starred dining room, The Olive Branch...

Lead Image: St Mary's Church, Clipsham Lead Image: dates xxx back from the 12th century.

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THE VILLAGE: CLIPSHAM

LIFE IN CLIPSHAM is always a pleasure.

No wonder, really; despite being a rather small village – home to just 170 people – it offers beauty spots, a Michelin-starred restaurant, quarries and bags of character with quintessentially Rutland cottages built in stone with pretty gardens.

If there’s a story, though, that really typifies Clipsham’s sense of community, it’s the origins of its pub. We say pub, but to refer to The Olive Branch as a pub is like referring to Michelangelo’s completion of the Sistine Chapel as being a bit of painting and decorating.

Hard to imagine now, but back in 1999 the place was a wreck. It had been empty for a couple of years, and villagers were bereft of a local in which to enjoy a pint or a G&T. At the time, locals Ben Jones and Sean Hope were working for Tim Hart at Hambleton Hall, and in 1999, announced their intention to leave in order to set up on their own. Alongside Marcus Welford, the three financed half of the cost of purchasing and refurbishing the place, but it wasn’t until Clipsham’s Dr Colin Ashpole encouraged locals to raise the remaining capital that the place could finally open.

One of the first big events the pub hosted was its millennium party and needless to say villagers were made very welcome. Less than two years later the place had earned its Michelin star, and has retained the accolade since, sticking determinedly to their ethos of providing really good dining but in a comfy and relaxed village pub setting. It doesn’t hurt that the building is so pretty, but The Olive Branch’s beauty is far from superficial, with a hugely talented and dedicated team all working hard to look after guests.

Of course, before retiring to The Olive Branch or its adjacent rooms, Beech House, you’ll need to work up an appetite. >>

“To refer to The Olive Branch as a ‘pub’ is like referring to Michelangelo’s completion of the Sistine Chapel as being a bit of painting and decorating...”

Above: An overhead view of Clipsham.

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THE VILLAGE: CLIPSHAM

“Former home to the Davenport Handley family, Clipsham Hall is a Grade II* listed country house built around 1700...”

>> In this respect too, you’re well-catered for in Clipsham. The village’s role as a site of several local quarries from which limestone is extracted has meant that previously quarried land can be given back to nature, which is quick to reassert itself, creating lots of pretty countryside to enjoy walking, cycling or riding.

Clipsham Hall is a Grade II* listed country house on the edge of the village and was built around 1700, taken on by the Handley family in 1865. Upon the death of John Handley in 1910 the house passed to John’s nephew, William Davenport, on the condition he took on the family name.

The Davenport Handleys, worked the nearby Medwells quarry, and once redundant, the site was returned to woodland, now known as Clipsham Old Quarry and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The Davenport Handley’s Medwells site, also in Clipsham, has been active since 1903. In 2001, it came under the custodian-

ship of Stamford Stone. It covers about 300 acres in total, including farmland and woodland, with about 30 acres currently used as an active quarry.

Stamford Stone is currently extracting limestone in the first of four phases, which should provide three or four decades of work in total. Every year the site yields about 20,000 tonnes of masonry block, and 75,000 tonnes of block stone for flooring.

When extraction from each phase of the quarry is complete, the company works with Natural England to replant and relandscape the sites, creating pastureland, calcareous grass, hedgerows and woodland.

Speaking of local beauty spots – and of the Davenport Handley family – Clipsham’s Yew Tree Avenue is looking especially splendid thanks to the efforts of the Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Trust, including locals Sue Thomas and Cliff Bacon.

It was back in 1870, that John DavenportHandley’s gardener, Amos Alexander, asked

Above: The Olive Branch and Clipsham’s Yew Tree Avenue Trust.

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THE VILLAGE: CLIPSHAM

The Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Trust was established in 2018, and completed the first clipping of the trees in 2019...

his employer for permission to make a feature of the former carriage driveway leading up to the country house.

Amos created an avenue of 150 clipped Yew Trees, curated over successive decades to include depictions of animals, birds, and later achievements like the Queen’s jubilees, a depiction of a WWII Spitfire, and even Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon.

The 1950s saw David Davenport Handley let a 999 year lease to the Forestry Commission on the understanding that the organisation maintain it. Sadly cuts to the Commission meant that by 2010, annual trimming was neglected.

Above: Clipsham Quarry is owned by Stamford Stone. The quarry has been active since 1903.

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The Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Trust was established in 2018, and completed the first clipping of the trees in 2019. The Trust also funds new picnic benches and generally maintains the site for future generations.

Yew Tree Avenue remains a great place to

enjoy a dog walk or a picnic in the warmer months, but in the cooler months, just north of Clipsham is Snowbird, a plantation of Christmas trees with seven different species in production. Christmas trees do rather well in limestone-rich soil, and so later this year, Rutlanders will flock to the site to pick their tree, doubtless also enjoying festive carols in Clipsham’s 12th century Grade II* listed St Mary’s Church.

For now though, winter remains months away, and so the best way to enjoy Clipsham is a long walk through the surrounding woodland and former quarries. The village’s stone has been used to repair the Houses of Parliament, York Minster and Oxford’s revered colleges, not to mention its use locally to create beautiful country homes, and super looking pubs and restaurants such as The Olive Branch which, incidentally, does a rather brilliant lunch following your Sunday morning walk. n

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Six eco-chic luxury treehouses, offering a calming, magical self-catering experience for two people...

Lakeside treehouses with elevated terraces...

Outdoor bathtubs, firepits & rowing boats...

Set in 17 acres of natural woodland...

Woodhall Spa, 07771 867907 www.treetophideaways.co.uk

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On...

PETERBOROUGH

THURSDAY 28th JULY SATURDAY 30th JULY

STAMFORD

SATURDAY 23rd JULY WEDNESDAY 31st AUGUST

OUTDOOR THEATRE AT PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL

GENTILESCHI VR AT BURGHLEY HOUSE Step back in time to 17th Century Italy and experience the fascinating story of internationally celebrated artist Artemisia Gentileschi.

Narrated by musician and author, Cerys Matthews, The Light in the Shadow is experienced through virtual reality headsets and explores the fascinating story of one of today’s most celebrated Baroque artists. The 14minute experience follows Artemisia’s journey to become one of Europe’s most accomplished and in-demand painters of her time. n Burghley House, call for details on 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

Napoleonic Re-enactment FACE YOUR WATERLOO AT BELVOIR CASTLE THIS MONTH AS 21EME LIGNE BRINGS ITS REGENCY BATTLES TO BELVOIR...

Two absolutely superb productions in the cloisters of Peterborough Cathedral.

Join Alice down the rabbit hole in her magical journey through Wonderland in this brand-new open-air adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s family favourite ‘Alice In Wonderland’ performed

by KD Theatre. Then, DOT Theatre presents The Jungle Book, based on Rudyard Kipling’s original story of Mowgli, who establishes friendships with jungle animals and forges true alliances along the way.

GRANTHAM

SATURDAY 6th AUGUST SUNDAY 7th AUGUST

NAPOLEONIC REENACTMENT WEEKEND AT BELVOIR CASTLE Take a journey back in time to the era in which the fourth Castle at Belvoir was built.

Learn about the Napoleonic Battles that transpired during the Regency Period 1803–1815 with living history acts, Regency dances and thrilling live battle sequences, complete with weapons and gunpowder! n 11am-4pm, £22/adults, £10/children, 01476 871001 or see www.belvoircastle.com.

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n From 2pm and 3pm, £15/adults, £10/child (Alice in Wonderland, and £9/person (Jungle Book), call 01733 355315 or see www.peterboroughcathedral.org.uk WHITWELL

SUNDAY 7th AUGUST

SWIM RUTLAND Open water swimming events at Rutland Water, from 21st July’s Tower Swim to Swim Rutland on 7th August and the festival’s Night Swim on 3rd September. August’s event includes 500m, 2km, 4km & 8km open swimming categories, with electronic scoring, support staff, and finishers’ medals. n See www.swimrutland.com.

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

LEICESTERSHIRE

STAMFORD

WEDNESDAY 31st AUGUST

SATURDAY 27th MONDAY 29th AUGUST

ROB LAMBERTI: CELEBRATING THE SONGS AND MUSIC OF GEORGE MICHAEL

STAMFORD

SATURDAY 6th AUGUST

HERMAN’S HERMITS Something tells me you’re into something good this month as Herman’s Hermits, one of the biggest bands of the 1960s, stops by at Stamford Corn Exchange for a one-off performance of their greatest hits. From their beginning in Manchester in April 1964, the band has chalked up over 23 Top Twenty single records,

10 hit albums, three major movies and countless television shows and concert tours all over the world – with total record sales of over 75m.

From Silhouettes to I’m Into Something Good and from I’m Henry VIII I Am to Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter, this classic British pop act will definitely leave you rocking and rolling. n From 7.30pm, tickets £25, 01780 766455 for details.

Billy Elliot: The Musical THE AWARD-WINNING, WORLD-RENOWNED ‘BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL’ COMES TO CURVE

From the live final of Stars in Their Eyes to being hired by George Michael’s team to promote the singer’s 25 Live album, this is a performer in a different league.

No other tribute artist captures George’s musical talent, charisma and passion as closely as Rob Lamberti.

Hits include Careless Whisper, Freedom, Jesus to a Child, Fastlove, Faith, and many more!

In the wooded glade theatre of Kilworth House in Leicestershire. n From 7.30pm, tickets £40, pre-theatre dinner and/or accommodation available, call 01858 881939, see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.

LEICESTER

THURSDAY 7th JULY SUNDAY 14th AUGUST

BILLY ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL For the first time in the UK, the award-winning, worldrenowned Billy Elliot the Musical gets a new look in this Made at Curve production, directed by Nikolai Foster and choreographed by Lucy Hind.

It’s the mid-80s. Thatcher is at her most powerful. Men mine and boys box... until, in a small town in County Durham, a young boy falls in love with ballet. Set amidst the bitter 1984/85 miners’ strike,

SUMMER FINE FOOD MARKET AT BURGHLEY HOUSE Shop and enjoy local produce in the courtyard of Burghley House, with food and drink including dishes from around the world, to handmade cheese, soft and alcoholic beverages, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats. n Free entry, call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

Billy Elliot the Musical is a tale of determination, acceptance and daring to be different.

In a close-knit community where family and tradition means everything, can Billy forge a new destiny and follow his passion?

Based on Stephen Daldry’s acclaimed 2000 film, with music by Elton John and book and lyrics by Lee Hall, featuring incredible songs such as Solidarity, The Letter, He Could Be a Star and the show-stopping Electricity. n Tickets £10-£56, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

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Discover

Bransby

Come and visit our rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules!

FREE

entry

Enjoy a great day out for all the family at our award winning Visitor

and Play Park.

For more information on opening times, call, online or follow us on social media.

Find us at LN1 2PH 01427 788 464 BransbyHorses.co.uk

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Charity No: 1075601

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Kilworth is the West End in rural Leicestershire, an extraordinary experience.

There’s so much to see!

at Kilworth

31ST AUGUST – 17 TH SEPTEMBER

2022

In addition to producing its own spectacular musicals each season Kilworth House Open Air Theatre plays host to renowned musicians and leading tribute shows during our ‘Live at Kilworth’ festival.

To enhance the whole experience, guests have the option of dining pre-show in the beautifully ornate Victorian Orangery of Kilworth House Hotel or taking a picnic to enjoy in the spectacular grounds of the estate.

Half A Sixpence 19TH JULY – 28TH AUGUST

A delightful musical comedy packed with exuberant choreography, a myriad of mirth and show-stopping numbers including ‘Flash, Bang, Wallop!’ and ‘Money to Burn’.

‘Half A Sixpence’ will delight audiences both young and old!

Tickets £42 - £52

Live at Kilworth 16 NIGHTS OF POWERFUL LIVE MUSIC! 31ST AUGUST – 17 TH SEPTEMBER

Returning to our outdoor theatre this September!

These are nights not to be missed!

SEE THE FULL LINE UP ONLINE AT www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk

Tickets £36 - £42

BOX OFFICE 01858 881939 OPENING

HOURS: MON-FRI, 9AM - 5.30PM

OR BOOK ONLINE AT: www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk Kilworth House Hotel & Theatre Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth Leicestershire LE17 6JE

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ADVERTISING FEATURE NFU MUTUAL

A Reflection on Protection with NFU MUTUAL STAMFORD

For Miles Baker & Ashley Oxer of NFU Mutual Stamford, the return of the Rutland Show meant a chance to reconnect with the rural community and reflect on the importance of ensuring adequate protection for your home, your business and for your assets...

A LITTLE BIT BREEZY, and rather overcast, but back with a smile. As NFU Mutual Stamford’s Miles Baker & Ashley Oxer opened up their marquee to visitors at the Rutland Show, it was demonstrative that we’re slowly returning to ‘business as usual,’ which is quite a relief after a couple of turbulent years.

“NFU Mutual’s background does lead some to conclude that its services are available only to those who work in farming, though.”

“We always enjoy seeing clients face-to-face, and keeping in touch with them. That’s not always been possible over the past couple of years, and events like the Rutland Show haven’t been held, so that’s another way of keeping in touch with our clients that hasn’t been available to us.”

“We offer a range of products from home and business insurance to contents insurance, motor and dog or cat insurance. When you get in touch, you deal with a named person that you’ve spoken with before and you’ll be made to feel valued as a client.”

“For a company which values good working relationships that foster a genuine understanding of our customers’ needs, it hasn’t been ideal, but as things get back to normal, we’re reminded of how important that personal contact is.”

“We’ve had a walk around the showground this morning and seen some pretty incredible machinery. Modern farmers rely on some pretty awesome equipment and some clever technology to get the most out of their land.”

“That technology becomes an ever greater investment and even more crucial for the farmers and landowners who depend on their equipment. This in turn reinforces how important it is to ensure you’ve adequate protection, and that you’re neither underin-

“In fact our services are available to anyone who values great customer service and quality insurance products which offer peace of mind and protection.”

“The same applies to our financial planning services which are provided by NFU Mutual Financial Adviser, Chris Gormley.”

“We believe wholeheartedly in personalised service, an investment in building a good working relationship with our clients.” sured or overinsured, whether you’re a private household, whether you run your business in a rural community, or if you’re a farmer or a landowner.”

“The NFU was established in 1908 as a representative body championing the interests of British farming and agricultural businesses right across the country.”

“Two years later, NFU Mutual aimed to provide insurance and financial services to their members, and 113 years on, it has become a network of 295 local offices.”

NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. They’ll explain the advice services and the charges. Financial advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Ltd.” “The past few years have proved turbulent, but as life slowly returns to normal we’ve all had a reminder of how important planning, protection and peace of mind is. And also, how we value being part of a rural community like Rutland and Stamford. n

Find Out More: NFU Mutual Stamford is now based at 41 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. For more information call 01780 762421 or visit www.nfumutual.co.uk. A Oxer & M J Baker is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers.

And an introducer to NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited, a member of the NFU Mutual group of companies.

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DINING OUT AT THE WHITE HORSE, BASTON

Dining Out at Baston’s

WHITE HORSE This month we’re backing a winner with a visit to The White Horse in Baston... and we’re not the only ones!

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

We’re backing a winner this month, and we’re not the only ones. As we turn up to The White Horse in Baston it’s a lovely sunny day, with happy diners just finishing their lunch before heading off to enjoy an afternoon lazing about in the garden.

It’s nice and relaxed... at least... until the horses in the Queen Mary stakes – the 2.30pm fixture at Ascot – are off. Front of House Manager Danny Steward reckons he’s got an eye for a good horse, and sure enough, having put a bet on The Ridler and Wallbank to each place first or second, canny Danny is £250 up. He’s a happy man.

His winnings are more than enough to fund a good night out at a nice restaurant with a really decent bottle of wine. Mind you, Danny would struggle to find somewhere with food as delicious as Baston’s White Horse, even if it might be a bit of a busman’s holiday to dine in the place you work.

MEET THE CHEF

Created in the 1700s, The White Horse was originally a village pub called The Spinning Wheel. Its name was changed prior to 1840 and it continued to operate until October 2012 when, unfortunately, the place went the same way as many village pubs.

Industry magazine The Morning Advertiser reports that still in 2021, we were losing about 37 British pubs a month, which means that only the best survive, and that’s probably why The White Horse has been in good health since it reopened following a restoration in July 2013.

Today it’s owned by Jo Richardson and family, who are also local arable farmers producing cereals and potatoes about a mile down the road from the pub.

BEN CLARK, EXECUTIVE CHEF

Jo, Danny at front of house, Executive Chef Ben Clark and Head Chef Adam Childs recognise that to be a really successful pub these days, you need to offer a warm welcome, a great setting and really good food.

Happily The White Horse delivers on each of the above criteria, and comes highly recommended following our visit. >>

Raised just over the border in Norfolk, Ben worked at The White Horse from 2014-2019 then returned in October 2021. Chef is a self-confessed chocoholic, but his ‘food hell’ is egg mayonnaise.

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DINING OUT AT THE WHITE HORSE

on the MENU Starters Soup of the day with freshly baked bread £7.

Handmade bao buns, crispy pork shoulder, handmade kimchi, sirracha mayo £8.

Goat’s cheese with rhubarb and lightly curried granola £7.

Main Courses Hand-made tagliatelle, roasted artichoke, smoked cheddar, herb dressing £14.

Crispy lamb shoulder, chickpea tagine, lemon and herb dressing £18.

Pan-fried chicken supreme with potato rösti, leeks and pickled shittake £17.

Beer-battered fish with triple-cooked chips, tartare sauce, curry sauce and mushy peas £14.

Desserts White chocolate panna cotta with Yorkshire rhubarb and ginger crumble £7.

Banana bread with honey Chantilly cream caramelised banana and salted caramel ripple ice cream £7.

Warm rum baba, with raspberry, and crème Chantilly £7.

NB: This is a sample menu, and featured dishes are subject to availability and change.

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“Ben bakes his own speciality bread, creates his own ice creams and sorbets, and makes all sauces and desserts from scratch...” >> I really do wish The White Horse was my local, as there’s such a lovely feel when you walk in. Danny is keen to point out that the team is really grateful to the locals who all support the place, aside from welcoming in diners from a radius of about an hour.

There’s a proper traditional bar, which can accommodate diners, as well as the main restaurant with 34 covers, a snug with space for 16 people, also featuring a wood burner for the cooler months, and an outdoor terrace with its own bar which was a wonderfully sunny space during our visit.

The White Horse also has a first floor dining room which can be used for private dining parties.

Lunchtime service provides eight options from a traditional – but nicely executed – fish ‘n’ chip dish, plus a hand made burger with all of the accoutrements from pickles to skinny fries, as well as a few gourmet sandwiches from a ‘posh’ fish finger option and a bavette steak offering. Sunday lunch has its own menu with sirloin of beef and roasted loin of pork presented with all the traditional trimmings.

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There’s a ‘Nosebag’ bar menu, too, with snacks, and a children’s menu as well... but it’s to the à la carte menu that we direct you most of all.

Ben’s evening menu comprises three starters, eight main courses including two grill options a daily-changing ‘catch of the day’ and two vegetarian options. Ben reckons there’s always plenty on offer for those with glutenintolerance, too. We think the menu is sufficiently succinct to demonstrate Ben’s ability to create people-pleasing dishes without spread-betting across loads of dishes.

Fewer dishes means he’s more well-versed in creating each one, too, and that he can carry fewer – and by extension, fresher – ingredients, which in turn has a really positive impact on each dish.

Fish is delivered directly from Grimsby docks each morning by Moorcroft and Ritter, butchery is provided by Bourne’s Alec Day, and fruit and veg suppliers are Colins and Freshdrop. A keen kitchen gardener, Ben has also established a kitchen garden on Jo’s farm and will soon be growing as much of his own produce as possible.

Ben bakes his own speciality bread, creates his own ice creams and sorbets, and makes all sauces and desserts from scratch.

It shows, too.

Dishes are beautifully presented, simply enough to let a really good ingredient come to the fore, but still inventive with real skill and creativity invested. The White Horse may look and feel like a village pub, but like Danny’s horse... it’s a real winner! n

DINING OUT AT...

The White Horse Location: Baston, near Bourne.

The Pitch: 18th century country inn nestled between Bourne and Market Deeping providing really satisfying quality pub restaurant dining, Opening Times: Tues & Wednesday 5pm to 10pm; Thursday 12pm to 10pm; Friday & Saturday 12pm to 11pm; Sunday 12pm to 10:30pm.

The White Horse, Church Street, Baston, Peterborough PE6 9PE. Call 01778 560923 or see www.thewhitehorsebaston.co.uk.

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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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DINING OUT AT BELVOIR CASTLE’S ENGINE YARD

AFTERNOON TEA & MORE at

THE ENGINE YARD It’s perfect for summer! Delicious dining with friends and a great day out at the stylish Engine Yard village adjacent to Belvoir Castle. Created by Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland with a £2.5m investment, and opening in 2018, the site has become better and better with every addition, and its latest feature is The Duchess’s Parlour, offering afternoon tea and Champagne...

SO SUNNY & WARM! It was the perfect day to enjoy a visit to The Engine Yard, the flagship lifestyle and retail development adjacent to Belvoir Castle, which opened in 2018.

It marked an investment of £2.5m, in a site formerly occupied by the 20-ton beam engine which supplied the 450ft Grade I listed castle, built in 1799, with water. Today, the development is home to 15 businesses, many independently owned, mostly focusing on food or luxury products for the home and garden.

If you’re stuck for something to do on a sunny Sunday morning, it’s ideal for an impromptu day out, and as well as being able to browse its range of retailers, you won’t be stuck for somewhere to dine.

At the heart of the Engine Yard development is the Fuel Tank, which now offers a range of artisan sandwiches, salads and homemade cakes. Outside the Fuel Tank is the undercover terrace, sheltered from the breeze and with its own stonebaked pizzeria and bar.

Another brand new development is Vale House, which was recently converted into a boutique guest house with six rooms individually designed by The Duchess herself,

designed to offer a premium experience for those seeking an overnight stay in the Vale of Belvoir.

On the ground floor of Vale House, though, is the Duchess’s new tea parlour with bright, kitsch floral design and a menu of superb summer salads and afternoon teas.

A choice of four summer salads include a smoked chicken, bacon and avocado dish, plus a superfood dish with red quinoa and fresh peas; a heritage beetroot salad with pomegranate, mango and mint salsa, and a tuna salad with ponzu sauce and avocado.

For a real sense of luxury, The Duchess’s Parlour provides Champagne for two with Nyetimber English sparkling wine, or sparkling rosé, and options including a blinis with caviar and sparkling wine or Belvoir estate gin, and canapés including Cropwell Bishop Stilton bon bon with seared fillet of beef, or crab tartlette with Gruyère.

A tiered afternoon tea is available in the Duchess’s Parlour too, with a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and ‘dainty treats’ created by the Parlour’s patisserie chefs.

Ingredients are sourced from across the estate and there are vegetarian and vegan options available too. >>

Main Image: Afternoon tea is served in The Duchess’s Parlour, with finger sandwiches, scones and cakes prepared by the Engine Yard’s pastry chefs.

Above: Her Grace The Duchess of Rutland has overseen the development of the site, which opened in 2018.

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THE ENGINE YARD AT BELVOIR CASTLE

>> Elsewhere on the estate, the Engine Yard’s Balloon Bar is a stylish and quirky basement gin bar with cocktails and mocktails.

“The whole team have worked hard to create an enjoyable place to spend an entire summer day, and there’s nothing better than when the sun is shining and visitors are just enjoying the whole of the Engine Yard, going from retailer to retailer and then just stopping for a drink,” says the Duchesss.

“We’re exceptionally proud, too, of our different independent retailers, each of which can help you to take a little of the

Engine Yard experience home. A Sunday morning isn’t complete without a cup of coffee with freshly ground Fuel Tank Blend beans from Cherizina, and for Sunday lunch our butcher The Country Victualler provides locally-sourced meats, pies and patés. Cocoa Amore specialises in sustainably-sourced chocolate, and Jorge Artisan Food is the home of stunning bread, cheese, antipasti and other delicious food.”

With delicious food and drink, lots to see and do, plus a range of new afternoon tea options at The Duchess’s Parlour, this summer promises to be very enjoyable indeed! n

Belvoir Castle’s Engine Yard development provides food and drink at The Fuel Tank, cocktails and mocktails at The Balloon Bar, afternoon teas and Champagne at The Duchess’s Parlour, and the site has 15 retailers including those specialising in food and drink, as well as The Idle Mole garden centre, Duchess’s Gallery boutique and Margo & Plum interiors. Open seven days a week, ample parking, visit Grantham NG32 1PA, call 01476 247059 or see www.engineyardbelvoir.com.

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In the KITCHEN Enjoy a taste of the orient this month with this delicious tangy duck recipe...

ORANGE & SOY DUCK WITH CELERIAC PURÉE Preparation Time: 15 minutes. Cooking Time: 30 minutes. Serves: Two. 1 orange, juice • 1 tbsp reduced salt soy sauce • 1 tsp clear honey 2 Gressingham Duck Breasts • 1 tbsp olive oil • 300g celeriac, diced 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped • 100ml whole milk • 200g Savoy cabbage, shredded Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Mix the orange juice, soy sauce and honey in a bowl to make a dressing. Score the skin on the duck breasts and season all over. Heat a frying pan over a medium-high heat and, without adding any oil, cook the duck, skin-side down, for 5 minutes until golden. Turn over and sear the flesh for 1 minute. Transfer, skin-side up, to a baking tray. Drain the fat from the pan, then add the orange dressing. Bubble for 1 minute, then spoon the dressing over the duck. Roast for 15 minutes, until the duck is fully cooked with no pink meat and its juices run clear. Set aside to rest for five minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 1⁄2 tbsp oil in a medium saucepan. Add the celeriac and garlic along with a pinch of salt. Sweat for 5 minutes, then add the milk and simmer gently for 10 minutes or until the celeriac is soft. Season and use a blender to purée, loosening with 2-3 tbsp just-boiled water if needed; set aside until ready to serve.

Wipe out the frying pan and return to the heat with the remaining 1⁄2 tbsp oil.

Add the cabbage, 2 tbsp water and another pinch of salt. Cook over a medium heat, tossing regularly, for 5-6 minutes, until tender. Slice the duck then serve with the celeriac purée, cabbage, and the orange and soy juices from the duck spooned over. n Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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In the KITCHEN A zesty, delicious traybake that’s brilliant in the sunshine, in your garden, as a teatime treat!

KIWI & LIME TRAYBAKE Preparation Time: 25 minutes. Cooking Time: 25 minutes.

225g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 225g caster sugar 3 Free Range Medium Eggs • 250g self-raising flour • 1 tsp baking powder 1⁄ tsp fine salt • 5 tbsp whole milk • 4 unwaxed limes, zest 2 75g unsalted butter, softened • 75g icing sugar, sifted • 150g soft cheese 1 unwaxed lime, juice • 4 kiwi fruits, peeled and sliced Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4; grease then line a 33cm x 22cm cake tin with baking parchment. In a large mixing bowl, use electric beaters to cream together the butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. One at a time, beat in the eggs, then lightly beat in the flour, baking powder and salt until just combined.

Add the milk and zest of 3 limes to the bowl and beat gently until just combined.

Tip into the cake tin, level the top, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and risen, and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Set aside to cool in the tin.

For the topping, use electric beaters to beat the butter and icing sugar in a mixing bowl for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Beat in the soft cheese until combined to a thick, creamy frosting, then beat in the lime juice. Spread the frosting all over the cake, then arrange the kiwi fruit on top. Scatter over the remaining lime zest and slice to serve. n Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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Wine of the Month

A non-alcoholic infusion for a more mindful life...

Follador Prosecco Superiore Torri di Credazzo £14.99 / 75cl / 11.50% ABV

Wild Eve is small batch, nonalcoholic drink hand-crafted from organic flowers, fruits and leaves on the Isle of Harris Wild Eve Botanical Infusion no. 1 is a unique addition to the discerning drinks market, made without alcohol, but with herbs and adaptogens that relax mind and body, it offers an engaging, full bodied, drinking experience. Opening with citrus brightness, moving into a floral, tannin rich body with notes of chamomile, rose and honeysuckle, finishing with earthy, smokey, peppery notes and a nip of the sea.

Treat Wild Eve just like a spirit and serve with a twist of pink grapefruit!

The Wine Cellar FROM A TRIO OF WINES TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL PINOT NOIR DAY, TO A DARK FRUITY WHISKY FROM THE ISLES AND A NONALCOHOLIC OPTION, WE PRESENT THIS MONTH’S TIPPLES...

VITIS VINIFERA: Exceptional examples for Pinot Noir day, 18th August...

1. Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru Clos des Maréchaudes Domaine du Pavillon. Blackberry, strawberry and mild spices, balanced with velvety tannins.

The finish is long and aromatic, £49.99 / 75cl / 13.50% ABV.

2. No.1 Côte de Beaune is a red Burgundy exclusive to retailer Waitrose.

Medium bodied with good structure and some fine-grained tannins, it’s a versatile match with food and especially delicious with cheese, £33.99 / 75cl / 13% ABV.

3. Organic Vosne-Romanée Jean Féry is an elegant wine from a small family winery in the heart of Burgundy. Soft, strawberry aromas, summer fruits and vanilla notes, £55 / 75cl / 13% ABV.

For a number of years now, Prosecco has been a very fashionable wine, the drinks industry’s golden goose.

August 13th is National Prosecco Day – a proper religious holiday, definitely not a contrived marketing exercise – which celebrates wines like our chosen example, an elegant wine from a top single estate vineyard in the Province of Treviso, with its hints of apple, peach and rose petals.

This is Prosecco at its best; great with appetisers and shellfish pasta dishes. n Available at waitrose cellar.com.

A single malt... with dark fruit!

Bunnahabhain’s Aonadh is a 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in a combination of sherry and port casks, creating a fruity, spicy dram.

Aromas of vanilla, brandy butter, caramel, dark berries and oak spice fill the nose, complemented by notes of cinnamon, plums, blackberries, roasted walnuts, dark chocolate and a salty tang throughout the palate, £110 / 70cl 56.2% ABV, to purchase see bunnahabhain.com.

n Our featured wines are available from the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Live The Dream For Anna and Ben Haines, the chance to move out of the city and into the countryside was an opportunity to live the dream, and happily they found the perfect property for family life not to mention the chance to host their own mini Glastonbury!

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PROPERTY

THE DETAILS

Grange Court, Carlby near Stamford Location: Stamford 5.8 miles, Bourne 5.1 miles.

Provenance: Grade II listed stone barn conversion in a semi-rural location in a plot of 1.8 acres.

Rooms: Five bedrooms and living kitchen with dining/family room plus separate family room.

Additional wing with kitchenette.

Guide Price: £1,650,000.

Find Out More: Fine & Country, Seaton Grange Barn Offices, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9HT. Call 01780 750200 or see www.fineandcountry.com. n 74

AROUND THE TIME that this magazine appears in shops, many will be enthusiastically heading off to Worthy Farm for Glastonbury.

Meanwhile, Anna and Ben Haines will be hosting their own miniGlastonbury, which has become an annual event for the couple, their two boys and assorted family and friends.

“It’s become a bit of a tradition,” says Anna. “Ben grew up in Switzerland, I’ve lived in Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire, we met in London and our school or university friends have all dispersed across the country.”

“It’s so rare to find ourselves together in the same place without making a very deliberate effort. So we arrange a real party weekend once a year, normally around Glastonbury when all are welcome.”

“We have big screens to show the festival, marquees, a barbecue, and friends camp in the garden. It really is a dream location for this type of event - a really large, versatile space where everyone can relax and there’s greenery and nature all around.”

Main/Right: The couple installed a new bespoke kitchen in two-tone Plum Brandy and Rouge II shades. Adjacent is the vestibule snug and dining room.

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The Grade II listed barns were part of a larger farming estate belonging to the Cust Brownlows dating back to the 1800s and were privately owned until the 1990s when a lack of successor to farm the land led to the estate being split up and sold off.

The first owners moved in back in 1997 and completed a full conversion of the former cattle sheds and crew yards into a residential property. The first owners lived in the barns until 2013, when Anna and Ben purchased the property, with Anna five months pregnant at the time with the first of their two sons.

“It’s been an amazing family home, somewhere the boys have been able to grow up not just in safety but surrounded by nature too. The arrival of spring is marked by the appearance of a family of Wagtails who visit us every year, and we’re very attached to the blue tits, owls and blackbirds who also call this place home.”

“We were lucky that the house was in good order when we moved in with modern wiring, plumbing and a roof that were all sound, so all we had to do was put our individuality into the property.”

The couple installed a bespoke kitchen finished in heritage colours from the Paint & Paper Library, notably Plum Brandy and Rouge II. Elsewhere the cabinetry is finished in Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin with granite work surfaces, a boiling/filtered water tap and premium appliances from brands like Miele and Neff.

Arranged over two floors, the property has five bedrooms including a dressing room and en suite to master plus two further en suite bathrooms. One wing of the house has an additional kitchenette, family bathroom and bedroom making the property more than ideal for intergenerational living. >> 75

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PROPERTY

>> Elsewhere there’s a large vestibule adjacent to the kitchen with a separate family room. Outdoors, too, the semi-enclosed courtyard of the property with its arches and quoining creates a super terrace that the family has re-landscaped in local limestone, complementing the rest of the property with its local stone and Collyweston slate roofing.

“We inherited an absolutely amazing garden from the previous owner, who was a really talented plantsperson, and beyond the gravel garden there’s a paddock which makes up most of the 1.8 acres of the land.”

The family’s children love making dens in the shrubbery, have their fort and trampoline in the garden and in summer enjoy reading their books in their hammock strung up between the weeping willows.

Close by is the children’s primary school – Copthill. Witham Hall, Stamford and Bourne’s primary schools are also all within 15 minutes – but as the two boys transition from primary to secondary education the family are seeking somewhere a little closer to their future secondary schools, and so the house has been put on the market. The family say they’ll miss the place greatly, but with such flexible, spacious and modern accommodation, Grange Court’s next owners are sure to love it just as much! n 76

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n Clatterpot Lane, Cottesmore Guide Pride: £635,000

A stunning detached thatched cottage with a wealth of inherent character occupying an established plot with a delightful cottage garden and ample parking next to the village church.

Three receptions, four bedrooms. www.murrayestateagents.co.uk

n Main Street, Seaton Guide Price: £800,000

A beautiful four-bedroom character home, constructed in 1881, with three reception rooms and four bedrooms.

Other features include countryside views, gas Aga to the kitchen, and mature garden with its own vegetable plot. www.jamessellicks.com

n Chapel Lane, Barrowden OIEO: £750,000

A charming Grade II listed, stone house in the popular Rutland village of Barrowden. With four reception rooms and four bedrooms all set over three floors, and a delightful walled rear garden. www.fineandcountry.com

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

Local - and ideally situated between Uppingham and Oakham to supply Rutland, Stamford and surrounding areas with all stonemasonry materials and services.

English Limestone Company Bespoke Architectural stone masonry and building materials in limestone, Ironstone and Sandstone and an excellent advisory service to accompany it.

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

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk

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Conserving the past, Building the future...

The Old Station, Wing Road, Manton LE15 8SZ 01572 453116 | info@englishlimestonecompany.co.uk www.englishlimestonecompany.co.uk

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High Quality Contemporary & Traditional Kitchens by Symphony Appliances from Neff, Indesit and Smeg BUILDER’S MERCHANTS, TIMBER AND LANDSCAPING SUPPLIER

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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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HOME FURNISHINGS

NEW FOR SUMMER 2022:

HARLEQUIN’S REWILD With confident, quirky prints and an eclectic look for your reception rooms, you’ll be going wild for Harlequin’s Rewild Collection...

This Page: Sofa fabric in Rewilded, Pomegranate, £139/m. Cushions in Dance of Adornment in Pomegranate £65/m and Equidae, Amber Light £139/m.

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To make the best of these fabrics, seek out one of the county’s leading interior design specialists to create bespoke soft furnishings and decoration for your interiors...

Top: Fabrics in Helianthus Vermillion £79/m and Equidae in Amber Light £139/m.

Above/Right: Fabrics including Sanguine Pomegranate £89/m.

Right: Chair in Equidae in Amber Light £139/m.

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Sofa in Helianthus Vermillion £79/m and Electron in Peppermint £20/m.

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Sanguine fabric in Pomegranate, Clementine, Peony and Blueberry colourway, £89/m.

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.

H-Works: 01780 754605, www.hworksdesign.co.uk. Hunters of Stamford: 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

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

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

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Distinctive Outdoor Living

Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

Our range of charming outdoor rugs are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, available in an array of vibrant stripes with coordinating cushions to enhance your alfresco experience. Call into the showroom for a browse and a chat and treat yourself to brunch, lunch or afternoon tea at the Hayloft Coffee Shop.

Photo courtesy of William Yeoward

Photo courtesy of William Yeoward

Open Monday – Saturday 9.00 am – 4.30 pm

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

Call 01780 757946 6 MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH

01572 823389

info@huntersinteriors.co.uk www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

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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

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

INTELLIGENT LIGHTING ULTRA-HD VIDEO DISTRIBUTION BESPOKE SYSTEM DESIGN

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

hello@darkeav.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL MARINE 86

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CONEYS DEPARTMENT STORE

Homeware with Coneys From household staples to quirky tableware, Coneys Department Store in Spalding have a beautifully curated homeware department with unique products. And the shopping experience is enjoyable too, thanks to the store’s first floor café and Prosecco bar...

Featured products are available at Coney’s Department Store, Broad Street, Spalding PE11 1TB. Call 01775 767155 or see www.coneysdesignerwear.co.uk.

PUT A SMILE on your face and on your table with Tassen’s emotion bowls, stocked

by Coneys Department Store.

Hotel-quality porcelain, dishwasher and microwave safe, £20/large cereal bowl.

WAKE UP and smell the coffee when it comes to your morning brew.

A cream shade and wood trim adds a smart touch to Swan’s Nordic Pump coffee machine, compatible with ground coffee or pods. Makes one or two cups at once, £119.99. n

LUXURY TOWELS are a household staple, and our favourites are these super-thick, super-heavy, fluffy examples available as bath sheets, bath and hand towels and face cloths in nine colours. They wash well, and perform well too, £9/hand, £25/sheet, £17/bath. £4.50/face cloth, pair.

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200 THREAD COUNT luxury Egyptian cotton bedding from Belledorm. Coneys Department Store has handpicked these ranges to provide a super-luxurious sleep whilst being easy to launder and long-lasting, because an investment in quality is one you’ll never regret, £30/double sheet, £67/double duvet, £15/pair pillowcases.

COUNTRY CUSHIONS BRING YOUR INTERIORS TO LIFE with these friendly fellows, sold as complete cushions with pad and cover. 43cm x 43cm, polyester filled to eliminate the need to ‘plump,’ they’re available in various designs with pheasants, bees and hares... in time for a cosy autumn, from £16/each. n

SLEEP IN COMFORT & STYLE CONEYS DEPARTMENT STORE stocks a range of quality bedding from Riva such as Sinerama (above), £27/double duvet set, and Tibetan Tiger (right) £27/double duvet set.

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DEENE PARK GARDENS

Enjoying the Parterres of

DEENE PARK They reckon an English person’s home is their castle, but that’s definitely the case for the Brudenell family of Deene Park, a local country estate whose crenellations overlook the border of Stamford and Northamptonshire... and its gardens look especially impressive at this time of year!

THIS MONTH, a gardener to whom I was speaking was grumbling about the impending annual trimming of their hedges. Stepladders, clippers, the din of a petrol engine cutting through summer birdsong and all that raking up of clippings.

It’s bad enough having to keep fairly utilitarian hedging looking neat, so spare a thought for Andrew Jones and the team at Deene Park. They don’t mind though... after all, their topiary and parterres are an enormous source of pride, and the results are certainly something to behold.

The stately home is right on the county border where the countryside surrounding Stamford ticks over to become Northamptonshire. Extending to a 568 acres of leafy parkland within an estate that expands to cover a sizeable 10,000 acres, the stately home has been owned by the Brudenell family for over 500 years.

Deene Park is designated a Landscape of Special Interest by English Heritage and at its very heart is a tudor hall. Adjacent to the property now owned by Robert and

Charlotte Brudenell and their son William, on its south side, is a parterre overlooking parkland and lakes linked by a canal.

The place could almost have been landscaped by Capability Brown but can in fact be attributed to Edmund & Marian Brudenell, Robert’s father and mother, who restored the estate, working with David Nightingale Hicks.

Hicks certainly moved in the best circles, marrying a Mountbatten and working as an interior and landscape designer for other posh clients like Vidal Sassoon, Mrs Condé Nast and Mrs Douglas Fairbanks Jr., then designing the Prince of Wales’ first apartments in Buckingham Palace before – and making carpets for the rest of the palace.

We reckon the parterres of Deene Park are his finest work, though... even if they do create rather a lot of work for Andrew.

“The box hedge parterre designed by David Hicks and planted out in the early 1990s,” says Andrew. “The planting consists of clipped lavender, perennials

Words: Rob Davis.

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RUTLAND AND STAMFORD GARDENS

such as Geraniums, Salvias, Iris, Nepeta, and spring bulbs including Hyacinths & Tulips.”

“A quirky feature of the Parterre, and not in the original design, are four topiary teapots.

Why teapots? Because tea was the late Edmund Brudenell’s favourite drink.”

“It’s a traditional English country garden with a very large formal area to the south and more relaxed, informal planting as you move further away from the house,” says Andrew.

“There are a couple of themed gardens we’ve created like the gold garden and the white garden, there are a lot of woodland areas and wildflower meadows, and long herbaceous informal borders around the garden.”

Andrew provides tours of the garden and it’s open on Sunday afternoons until September. Deene Park host garden events too throughout the summer.

“The garden is driven by the seasons and it’s a constant job of simply keeping on top of it. There are new projects we sometimes work on and introduce like the themed gardens, but most of what I do is general maintenance which is a big job when you consider the acreage of Deene Park.

Currently we’re in the process of deadheading all of the flowers.”

“Visitors to the garden in August, will enjoy some spectacular looking borders, full of hollyhocks, salvias and verbascums, and the pots and urns look their best at this time of year. Although the gardens looks good all year round, just different every season.”

“In February there are acres of snowdrops, then the garden welcomes spring bulbs, hyacinths, tulips and daffodils.”

“A quirky feature of the Parterre, and not in the original design, are four topiary teapots.

Why teapots? Because tea was the late Edmund Brudenell’s favourite drink...!”

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“Later on irises start to flower, then geraniums, roses, then lavender, until you’re back round to August. Many features of the garden don’t change and yet still look good all year.”

Many of the different areas of the garden have names given to them by the groundskeepers or the family themselves.

The Golden Garden was formerly known as the Black Garden, until Charlotte opened the space up by trimming back the overgrown trees overhead and planting up vibrant colours into the borders. This area is slightly biased towards later-flowering blooms making it a riot of colour in August and September, with crocosmia, and verbascum.

Another of Charlotte’s improvements to the garden is the creation of the Rose Garden in place of an area of topiary. >>

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IN THE GARDEN IN AUGUST...

Jobs to complete and a guide to planting in high summer... n Prune Wisteria As Wisteria can become quite unruly if left to do its own thing, now is the time to instill a little discipline with some ruthless pruning. n Deadheading It’s always nice to remove unsightly fading or dead flowers from plants, whether in beds, borders or hanging baskets. “Regular deadheading directs energy into stronger growth and more flowers. Once the flowers are pollinated; seed heads, pods or capsules form at the expense of further growth and flower development,” say the RHS. n Collecting Seeds Collect seeds on nice dry days from berries and capsules (in holly and poppy) to exploding seedheads (Euphorbia) and pods (sweet peas). Some seeds like hellebores need to be sown immediately to prevent deterioration. n Cuttings of Fuchsia Take cuttings of your favourite tender perennials such as pelargoniums and fuchsia to propagate them for next year. n August in the veg garden It’s a busy time for those who like to grow their own. Feed tomato plants, lower leaves clear to ensure good air circulation, harvest carrots, beetroot, maincrop potatoes, and lift onions, shallots and garlic. Harvest salad leaves and herbs, taking cuttings of the latter to plant in moist compost with good drainage. n In the Orchard Now’s the time to harvest and store apples, pears, plums, peaches and cherries... and if you’ve a glut of soft fruit like strawberries and raspberries, freeze your glut to enjoy out of season.

Top: In the parterre are Geraniums, Salvias, Iris, Nepeta. There are themed gardens too like the Golden Garden and the White Garden.

n Housekeeping Jobs Water butts will help to protect you from the inevitable hosepipe bans of summer, whilst boiling water can be used to kill weeds around paved areas. Hedges can be trimmed and lawns should be kept well watered but only when the sun goes down.

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RUTLAND AND STAMFORD GARDENS

“Meanwhile the borders adjacent to the long red brick wall adjacent to the garden were created in the 18th century originally as an area in which to grow fruit and veg...”

>> The rose garden would, she reasoned, allow her to recreate the layout of the area of garden adjacent to the 17th chapel in years gone by and could take inspiration from the 1597 patterns on the ceiling of the hall’s Tapestry Room.

Utilising David Austen roses, Charlotte planted varieties like Maid Marion and Rosa Mundi as a discreet reference to Marian Brudenell and Rosa Mundi to reference the family’s godmother Rosamund... some varieties, though, were chosen purely for their colour of scent, like Sir John Betjeman and Sophie’s Perpetual. In the parterre are Geraniums, Salvias, Iris, Nepeta, and earlier in the season, a host of spring bulbs.

Two other areas of interest around the gardens are the White Garden area, created as a tribute to Robert’s parents, with wild Corn Cockle, Willow Herb and Philadelphus among other flowers designed to evoke a soft, subtle scent.

Meanwhile the borders adjacent to the long red brick wall adjacent to the garden were created in the 18th century originally as an area in which to grow fruit and vegetables for the family.

Today they’re more wellstocked with colourful Philadelphus, roses, and perennials, leading up to the stone summer house built by the 7th Earl of Cardigan.

In previous years the gardens and its grounds have hosted the Greenbelt Christian music festival, now held nearby at Boughton House, but this season, things are a little quieter, and the gardens are open every Sunday from noon, an ideal place to walk off a Sunday lunch or a cream tea in the property’s tearoom. Although if you do happen to be about on Wednesday 3rd August, there’s a Teddy Bear’s Picnic for children... if you go down to Deene Park that day, you’ll be sure of a big surprise, but you’ll also enjoy one of the area’s finest looking country properties in all its colourful and dramatic high-summer glory. n Deene Park is located on the border of Stamford and Northamptonshire, NN17 3EW. Call 01780 450278 or see www.deenepark.com.

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Matching your k itchen flooring with your garden paving is the per fec t way to blend the t wo spaces , creating a seamless transition bet ween the indoors and outdoors .

SE AMLESS INDOOR R AND OUTDOO OR ST YLE Browse our collection of natural sto one flooring and external paving at www.ssathome.co.uk or call us onn 01780 740970 to book a showroom visit.

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DAV AVID GREAV AVES S Design

2D CONCE EPT & 3D VISUAL LA ANDSCAPE DESIGN SER RVICE

DAVID GREAVES S DESIGN offer a bespok ke 2D concept and 3D visual landscape design service e to create your dream garden achieving a the best for ou utdoor living.

Looking to redessign your ou utdoor space? utdoor spa w. www.davidgreavesdesign.co.uk e. info@ @davidgreavesdesign.co.u uk m. 07852 371873 t. 01664 823588

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What a difference a door makes...

It seems like the colder months are a lifetime away, but now’s the time to plan a replacement of your front door, adding greater kerb value to your property, improving security and of course, making your home warmer and cosier during winter.

Roy Wakeman OBE Chairman of the New Window Company takes up the story...

The oldest doors in the world were made of timber, still there and working. You can see on many of our finest heritage buildings be they churches, colleges or other fine institutional facilities how magnificent the doors look because in the main our heritage is protected.

This is a far cry from the cheap doors brought in from the far east to fund an explosion in private house ownership in the 1960s through to the very recent times.

For those that could and can still buy their local authority house in which they live first invest in new doors and windows.

The market research carried out by the British Wood Working Federation in the late 1970s when Taiwanese imports were at their highest, showed that in the UK the price elasticity and resistance from consumers to invest in new front doors petered out at about £50 whereas in West Germany at the same time this was in the region of £3,000.

This prompted at the time an Industry funded promotional campaign aimed at the consumer to sell timber doors made in the UK named ‘What a difference a door makes.’ This was very successful and whilst we didn’t see off the imports completely, we did educate the consumer who gradually increased their willingness to spend more on their new front doors.

Timber entrance door production in the UK increased because of this and peaked at volumes close to 3 million units and manufacturers values of £400m by 1986.

A national standard for security has existed along with test methodology to BS7950 which values security, thermal efficiency with u value calculus, and weather resistance to regional degrees of exposure. Even more important now as we face escalating energy and fuel costs.

In 2017 a new requirement under the building regulation’s part Q was introduced which demands even greater security standards for external doors and windows.

Current market research suggests that the major driving force for consumers when purchasing new doors and windows is security, energy efficiency and conservation, but also adding beauty and real value to the house.

It is little wonder then that the Timber Door complete with all the appropriate ironmongery, factory assembled and finished is now leading the way again to dominate the choice for new door designs that more than satisfy todays demanding new standards.

Timber is the most versatile of all materials and can be easily finished with modern waterborne paints or stains from a huge range of colours and wood stains. These modern finishes now come with lifetime warranties for the complete door set with maintenance a very minimum and the paint itself expected to last for up to 12 years before new decoration needed.

Products made by timberwindows.com and installed

by The New Window Company at Frieston Heath, Caythorpe near Grantham all meet the very high standards demanded today. n

Find Out More: New Window Company is based at Elms Farm, The Old Barn, Frieston Heath Lane, Grantham NG32 3HD. For a free no obligation discussion about your property’s needs call 01400 272538 or see www.new-window.co.uk.

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BikeRide

A WALK WITH

PRIDE

RUTLAND WATER: SPEND THE DAY CYCLING IN THE COUNTRY What better way to take in the majesty of the reservoir than with a sortie around its perimeter under pedal power...?

Words: Rob Davis.

Distance: 8 to 23 miles, depending on the route you choose.

Route: See map overleaf.

How to Get There: Whitwell, LE15 8BL. More Information: www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

APPARENTLY, life begins at 40. For a certain county magazine editor though – now 42 years young – all that particular milestone yielded was a bit of middle-age spread.

!

Happily the team had a great idea for how to get me out in the fresh air and stunning countryside of Rutland. Having mentioned the popularity of Rutland with walkers and cyclists on many occasions, I must confess to have skirted around the issue a little for fear of getting dragged into physical exercise and so, thus far in my career as the editor of the area’s biggest and best county magazine, I’ve avoided all but a very gentle little stroll around the reservoir with the family.

Now though, it was time to tackle the proverbial full monty, hiring cycles from Rutland Cycling and embarking on a sortie around the water with my publisher and his family cracking the whip behind me.

Different Routes...

Cycling around Rutland is a piece of cake even for those unfamiliar with the area, since it’s pretty much a circular route.

What’s convenient about the reservoir, too, is that it affords a number of routes so that those who haven’t cycled for a while, or those with youngsters can start off on the Family Trail which is a fairly easy eight miles beginning at Normanton and heading anti-clockwise to Whitwell.

23 miles in distance and can begin at Whitwell or Normanton before following the route right around – clockwise or anticlockwise, it’s your choice. The full route includes the peninsular, but omitting the village of Hambleton does enable you to slightly shorten the route to 17 miles.

The peninsular trail is 15 miles and begins at Whitwell, heading anti-clockwise to Oakham, then looping the peninsular before heading back to Whitwell incorporating both roads and a few hills.

On the subject of being in your 40s, Rutland Cycling was established in 1981, initially at Whitwell and then on the south shore. Today, the company has a total of 14 stores in the region, and its founders Dave & Ann Archer’s son Paul and CEO Karen Archer now run the business. >>

The more fit among us may be inclined to try the full Rutland Water lap, which is

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ABikeRide

>> Since the business was founded, over one million people have hired bikes to embark on a tour of Rutland Water, and happily it’s not only the business that has matured but the bikes themselves.

Ours featured power-assistance, which helped to ease the wheeze on the route’s uphill bits. Having scarcely been on a bike since my school days, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the company’s hire fleet was, clearly built to last and not made to a price point as you’d expect from a child’s bike purchased at an automotive and cycling store.

Joining us on the trip were our publisher’s two teenagers, Harvey and Joseph, but happily all of us managed to keep up with

“All of us managed to keep up the pace and have lots of fun along the way!” one another and more importantly, have lots of fun along the way with a few miniraces along the route.

One note of caution is to be aware when the routes are more likely to be occupied by serious cycling enthusiasts – earlier in the morning, later in the evening – and when families are more likely to be walking cycling or taking the dog around the water; Rutland Water does feel very busy in the summer months.

Having surprised myself by how enjoyable a cycle around Rutland Water can be, there’s also time to mention the bit that I was confident I’d enjoy too, the aprés cycle; to wit, the numerous pubs and lunchtime venues around the route.

One of the nicest elements of cycling around the reservoir is that you can not only choose a route suited to your fitness and inclination, but also take as much time as you want and stop regularly.

The best activity for fitness is the one you don’t find a chore, and in this respect, being able to enjoy a drink along the way at the Horse & Jockey at Manton or dinner and a rest at Barnsdale Lodge makes the business or getting the editor back in shape a good deal easier! n

For more information see www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk or www.rutlandcycling.com.

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WALK WITH PRIDE

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UNSURPASSED QUALITY, AFFORDABLE CRAFTSMANSHIP Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms - full project management and free quotations

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

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

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MOTORS

The Ultimate SUV?

Range Rover Sport It’s ferocious on-road, capable off-road and luxurious inside. With wild performance, it’s little surprise that the Range Rover Sport is one of Land Rover’s best selling vehicles...

Earlier this year, Land Rover released a brand new flagship Range Rover. Hot on its heels is its slightly smaller, less expensive and more road-focused Range Rover Sport.

Further down the model lineup is the Velar – which is looking increasingly lost in the range given that its stylish touches like flushdoor handles have now filtered through to the rest of the company’s lineup – and down the smallest model, the Evoke.

There are now many different models in the company’s lineup, and further competition from Land Rover’s own Defender and Discovery models. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to determine which Land Rover or Range Rover is right for you. However, we do know that the Range Rover Sport outsells pretty much all of the company’s other 106

models, and that more expensive vehicles are also more profitable… so arguably, the Sport is the most important car in its range.

Furthermore, with the larger Range Rover sold out for at least 12 months, many will look to purchase a Sport instead.

The all-new model is available with 3.0V6 diesel badged D300, a 3.0V6 petrol badged P400 and a plug-in hybrid 4.0V6 petrol badged P440e. The latter is pricy, but the

immediacy of the extra shove suits the car’s sporty nature, and if you keep it plugged in and charged up, or run the car as a company vehicle, it’s ideal. At the top of the lineup are a P530 4.4V8 and a P510e PHEV too.

Trim-wise there’s the availability of SE, Dynamic SE, Autobiography and First Edition versions. We think that SE versions are well-enough equipped, though. Whilst prices for the new Sport start from just under £80,000 and top out at £115,000, peerless off-road ability, low-range gears and air suspension help to justify the car in terms of value and breadth of capability.

The new Sport is evolution, not revolution, but its changes update the car’s technology, and will ensure that it continues to be one of the most desirable fast SUVs on the market. n

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THE DETAILS

Range Rover Sport SE D300 Price: £79,125 (on sale now).

Powertrain: 3.0V6 300HP, twin turbo, automatic, all wheel drive.

Performance: 0-60mph: 6.3 secs.

Top speed 135mph.

Equipment: 20-way electrically adjustable seats, heated, leather.

Adaptive cruise, 3D camera, front/rear parking sensors, wireless CarPlay, keyless entry, powered tailgate, navigation, DAB radio, low-range gearboxes, air suspension.

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WEDDINGS

A Chance Meeting Happily, the only thing that melted during Peter’s snowy Zermatt proposal was Sam’s heart, and after two false starts (thank you, pandemic), the couple finally managed to tie the knot recently, in a ceremony on Rutland’s Exton estate…

Wedding Photographer: Sarah Vivienne Photography, 01604 372543, www.sarahvivienne.co.uk.

THERE’S A SONG by Jarvis Cocker’s 90s Britpop group Pulp, called Something Changed in which the song’s protagonist mulls over the unlikely happenstance that he should meet his future love.

‘Do you believe that there’s someone up above? And does he have a timetable directing acts of love?’ the song asks, and later ‘When we woke up that morning we had no way of knowing / that in a matter of hours we’d change the way we were going / where would I be now, where would I be now if we’d never met?’

Those lyrics could comfortably have been written about Samantha and Peter’s meeting, back in 2018. Ordinarily, our featured couples tell us how they were childhood sweethearts, or had been ‘just friends’ for years. Not this time though. Sam was born in the States, but she was raised in Staffordshire. Peter, meanwhile, moved from his native East Yorkshire to Melton Mowbray.

The two never had any cause to meet. But when Sam was flying out of Birmingham Airport heading towards Finland, and Peter was collecting his luggage in the arrivals lounge after a trip abroad, there was window of no more than 30 minutes when they could meet.

Both were on the dating platform Bumble, which is dependent on potential matches being in proximity of one another, which Sam & Peter were... but only very briefly.

The two exchanged their first messages in that small window of potential, and the rest is history. If that’s not a one in a million chance to find the person you’re meant to be with, we don’t know what is.

The couple’s second date took place in Rutland, at Clipsham’s Olive Branch, and as a keen competitor in triathlon events, Peter was also keen on the area, visiting often.

Peter proposed on a snowy mountain in Zermatt, at a brisk -10°c but at least with beautiful surroundings.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS SAMANTHA & PETER

The two wanted to marry in Rutland in anticipation that they’d eventually move there – which they did, finally settling in Whitwell – and finding the Exton Park Estate, they fell in love with the place immediately.

“When we called we got straight through to Harry Campden, and we dealt with him all through the planning. He was so accommodating and a delight to work with.”

“He had a list of recommended suppliers and his suggestion of Events & Tents was a good one. The nice thing about a marquee wedding is that you have so much choice when it comes to your wedding venue; size, shape, position, layout, lining, lighting...”

“The amount of choice is almost overwhelming but Andrew from the company met us on site and then we had a drink at Barnsdale Lodge. He helped us out, guiding us through our reception options.”

Wedding Ceremony: Revd., Anthony Oram, St Peter & St Paul, Exton, www.achurchnearyou.com.

Reception Location: Exton Estate, 01572 812208, www.extonpark.co.uk.

Marquee: Events & Tents, 01780 408298, www.eventsandtents.co.uk.

Food: Emerson & Wests, 01858 462181, www.emersonandwests.co.uk.

Real Ale: roundcornerbrewing.com.

Wedding Dress: www.pronovias.com.

Groomsmens’ Tailoring: The Cad & The Dandy, www.cadandthedandy.co.uk.

Wedding Flowers/Styling: Sophie’s Flower Company, 01949 81199, www.sophiesflowerco.co.uk.

Wedding Cake: Ruddington Cake Company, 07966 541639, theruddingtoncakecompany.co.uk.

Band/DJ: Phil Rostance & The Marshall Band, www.themarshallband.co.uk. n

“We had to re-arrange the event twice due to Covid, and though we kept most of our suppliers, we met our caterers, Emerson & Wests, when our original caterers couldn’t make our new date. Thankfully, they were amazing. We didn’t want to compromise on the food. We had fresh asparagus, sirloin of Welland beef and a trio of desserts, and everyone said it was the best food they’d ever enjoyed at a wedding.”

“Drink was important too, and we hired ‘Matilda,’ a Land Rover converted into a bar and run by Round Corner Brewery of Melton Mowbray. It was brilliant!”

“My dress was by Pronovias, from the Atelier collection, and was a capped-sleeved A-line dress with beading and lace.” Peter and the groomsmen had their suits tailored by the same tailor that the Duke of Cornwall used for his wedding, The Cad & The Dandy on Savile Row, and wore the official tie of his gentleman’s club, The Gentleman Spoofers – look up the rules to spoofing online. >> 109

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WEDDINGS

>> “Another bride recommended Sophie’s Flowers, based in the Vale of Belvoir, and in addition to providing beautiful flowers she really helped out with props and the styling of the venue too.”

“Our hanging cake was created by The Ruddington Cake Company, and had four tiers, with Champagne & strawberry, Victoria, chocolate, lemon and red velvet flavours. It was the first time Lisa had made a hanging cake before but it looked amazing and tasted great!”

“My maid of honour was Danielle, one of my old work friends, and two further bridesmaids, plus our flower girl. Peter’s family sent our three-year old niece Aurelia down the aisle a minute or so before me, with a little sign saying ‘Aunty Sammy is on her way.’ It was so cute and melted everybody’s hearts.”

“Another highlight was a choir in the church who performed the song Viva la Vida by Coldplay, accompanied by the organ.

They’re our favourite band so we used Sky Full of Stars as our first dance too.”

“After an overnight stay at The Finch’s Arms in Hambleton, and spending the next day with family and friends, we enjoyed a honeymoon in Santorini. The day after was really nice as it gave us the chance to reflect on the day.”

“We were pretty relaxed and expected at least something to go wrong, but nothing did.

It all went so smoothly and it was so enjoyable.

We were lucky with some great suppliers and our family and friends who were all there to celebrate our day with us!” n 110

Wedding Photographer: Sarah Vivienne Photography, 01604 372543, www.sarahvivienne.co.uk.

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Camper Twins sandals in calf leather with pastel trim, £119.

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Essie nail polish in Sun Orange, £7.99

Gia Borghini, £320

London Grace nail polish in Soft Gold, £12

Jimmy Choo, £525

Hermes nail polish in Rose Magenta, £42

Gucci, £590

Gucci nail polish in Dorothy Turquoise, £24

Birkenstock, £420

Emolyne nail polish in Zanzibar, £13

Isabel Marant, £395

Nails Inc nail polish in Baker Street, £15

Burberry, £250

TREATS for FEET Gorgeous high-fashion flats with pretty nail varnish shades for high summer...

Dior nail polish in Bayadere, £22

Ancient Greek, £155

Nailberry nail polish in Lilac Fairy, £15

Bettina Vermillon, £225

Leighton Denny nail polish in Crazy For You, £12.50

Arizona Love, £140

Chanel nail polish in Arancio Vibrante, £25

Saint Laurent, £520

Mavala nail polish in Naive Mint, £5.80

Aquazzura, £605

OPI nail polish in Bubble Bath, £21

Valentino, £360

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Male Grooming & Haircare in the Heart of Stamford Book online at www.raffertysofstamford.com It’s easy, it’s convenient, it saves waiting around!

St Mary’s Street Stamford PE9 2DS Mon - Wed: 8am - 6pm, Thur - Fri: 8am - 9pm, Sat: 7am - 4pm Toni & Guy trained, 24 years experience. Classic haircut £23, beard trim with shave £19, hot towel shave £50.

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THIS MONTH: THE RUTLAND COUNTY SHOW AND THE DEEPING SUMMER BALL 2022...

To feature your event call 01529 469977. Our magazines are free to read online, so you can share the magazine with your friends. Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Celebrating the best of the county at the

Rutland County Show THERE WAS A FRESH & BREEZY start to the 2022 Rutland Show, and plenty of competition for events given that the Show was held on the Platinum Jubilee Weekend, when many had also chosen to get away for the bank holiday.

It’s telling, therefore, that the show was so very well-attended and well-received, with all of the show-goers that we spoke to reporting what a wonderfully organised show it was, with plenty to see and do. From Atkinson Action Horses in the event’s Main Ring to the BMX Bike Stunt Display in the Rutland Ring, to Gardeners’ Question Time in the new horticulture tent, no matter what your interest, high quality entertainment was all present and all good.

The show is nearly 200 years old and has returned after the longest peace-time break in its history. n Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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Sunshine & High Spirits at Sharon Roberts’

Deeping Summer Ball ORGANISED by Sharon Roberts, The Deeping Summer Ball is an annual black tie and long dress event that takes place every summer and is a highlight in the area as one of the most glamorous glittery events.

2022’s event took place last month in the beautiful gardens of The Granary on the Molecey’s Estate in West Deeping and included live music, four-course dining, dancing and entertainment. Over 350 attended, entertained by soloist Alan Jackson, magician and mindreader Dean Odell, then live band, The Commandments after a supper, created by Clark Catering of Hanthorpe.

This year’s charity was Dementia Support South Lincs, a small, local, independent charity which supports over 300 families affected by dementia in The Deepings, Stamford, Bourne and surrounding villages. n Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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COSMETICS

High Summer Beauty FEEL FANTASTIC AND LOOK GREAT ALL SUMMER LONG THANKS TO THIS HAND-PICKED

1. Five colours in a couture palette from Dior...

Newly released and exclusive to John Lewis, Dior’s Five Couleurs Couture palette is renewed in a limited edition velvet collection. 30 years after its first edition, Dior dresses the palette case in a soft touch velvet couture outfit. such luxury is also found in the creamy texture of the palette’s eyeshadows, just two versions available, with either blue or red tones, £48/7g.

2. Skin-fresh perfection...

Bobbi Brown’s new concealer product is a first-of-its-kind product from the brand, making it possible to achieve great looking skin, easily.

Prime your skin first then apply and blend this creamy, emollient-rich 12-hour concealer, available in 18 natural shades, £26/3g.

3. Dior Pump & Volume Diorshow’s Pump ‘n’ Volume is the squeezable Dior mascara with a lash care formula with natural-origin ingredients. Boosts lash volume by over 200% and provides 24-hour wear as well as greater length and thickness. Available in three shades; black, brown, blue, £30/6ml.

4. Lace for the face...

Givenchy’s Le Soin Noir anti-ageing face mask is saturated with the regenerative power of Black Sap of Vital Algae, offering noticeable age-defying properties for intensive skin beauty renewal.

Improves skin luminosity and reduces the appearance of fine lines, £290/4 x 18m.

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5. Semi-matte lip colour from Yves Saint Laurent...

Radical colour, creamy comfort and a velvet matte finish from Yves Saint Laurent.

This lipstick combines highly pigmented colour with a soft, velvet texture to deliver a long-lasting, semi-matte finish.

The innovative square bullet allows for easy application to effortlessly shape the lip without the need for lip liner.

Available in 12 shades from plush nude to rich red and burnt orange, £31/2g.

6. A special edition scent at John Lewis...

Jo Malone’s reed diffusers and candles are always popular, but new for high summer is this wild bluebell special edition fragrance, sold exclusively through John Lewis.

The company has created a new diffuser technology, which is calls ‘ScentSurround’ to ensure its 10 reeds release its fresh summer scent constantly, £65/165ml.

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

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SMILE IIN SMILE N A DAY, DAY, WI TH O OUR UR WITH A ALL LL O ON N4D DENTAL E NTA L IIMPLANTS. MPLA NTS. The perfecct solution to deentures and failing teeth, be it a single misssing tooth or a complete set set.

Make uncomfortable dentures or failing and d loose teeth a thing of the pa ast.

Join us for a free, ree no obligation consultation to o discover how we can help you y walk away the same dayy with your confidence and smile restored.

“I recently underw went full upper and lowerr jaw dental implants. I can honesttly say that the care and pr professionalism from the team at Th The Dental Health and Imp plant Centre is firrst class. All relevantt information was made available a to me ahead of my visit. Th The prro ocedure took 6 hourrs to complete and I was talked thro ough what was happeninng from start to finish and all complettely pain free. I am excep ptionally happy with the outcome annd love my new smile. I would w happily recommend this p practice to all my friends and a familyy.”

- Richard T Patient

Call 0147 76 6 594480, 4 to boo ok yours tod day and quote ‘LPCON NSULT’. info@ @dentalhealthcentree.co.uk 3 Avenue A Road R d, d Grantham, G h Lincolnshir Li l h re, NG31 6TA

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RAMSAY FITZWILLIAM HOSPITAL

Fast & Comfortable Diagnosis at the Ramsay

FITZWILLIAM HOSPITAL Medical imaging has become widespread in healthcare, providing fast and effective diagnosis.

Such is its usefulness that in the NHS the facility is in demand, but with a new high performance wide-bore MRI scanner at the Ramsay Fitzwilliam Hospital in Peterborough, you can access the very latest diagnostic technology and benefit from consultant-led care in a state-of-the-art hospital... the forefront of our decision-making and to support our service provision.”

PATIENTS AT PETERBOROUGH’S Ramsay Group Fitzwilliam Hospital are appreciating the benefits of a brand new, state-of-the-art MRI scanner which was commissioned for use just last month.

Medical imaging allows clinicians to see exactly what’s going on inside the body, without surgical investigation. One of the most effective means of diagnosis is utilising MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which uses a magnetic field to produce detailed three-dimensional images allowing investigations into many conditions from gynaecological problems such as endometriosis to musculoskeletal complaints such as prolapsed discs in the spine.

Last month, Chief Executive Officer for Ramsay Health Care, Nick Costa, performed the opening ceremony for the new MRI scanner at the Peterborough-based Ramsay Fitzwilliam Hospital.

The Siemens Sola 1.5T Tesla MRI scanner offers extremely high performance in a larger wide-bore scanner.

Using the latest hardware and software including BioMatrix technology, the new MRI scanner provides consistent, high-quality personalised exams with increased productivity.

Robust and reliable results for every patient to support their diagnosis will improve scan efficiency and ultimately enhance the patient’s experience.

“Our MRI upgrade allows us to offer advanced technology imaging services for

Founded in 1964, the Ramsay group now operates 480 facilities in 11 countries, with 40 hospitals and facilities in the UK.

our patients,” Mark Milton, Lead MRI Radiographer at Fitzwilliam Hospital, says.

“The new MRI machine not only provides improved image quality but it is larger and wider than its predecessor. It also has upgraded features that are designed to make a patient’s experience more comfortable during their scan.”

“Sometimes patients struggle with MRI because they are anxious or have claustrophobia or their position makes them uncomfortable,” Mark Milton continued.

“This upgrade to a wider-bore MRI will help reduce claustrophobia. It includes more patient comfort measures such as unique coils that can flexibly adapt to patients’ bodies while they undergo MRI exams.”

“Fitzwilliam’s Radiology department is well designed, focusing on our patient’s journey, offering a relaxed, dignified and professional MRI diagnostic service. We carefully chose this MRI scanner with our patients’ needs at

The Fitzwilliam Hospital offers patients access to convenient appointments, diagnostics and treatment without waiting and direct access to a consultant-led service, via self-pay, insurance or NHS Choose & Book care pathways.

Opening in 1983, the Fitzwilliam Hospital has 55 en suite bedrooms, medical imaging suite with CT imaging and its new MRI scanner, as well as five state-of-the-art operating theatres and onsite physiotherapy.

Patients in Lincolnshire benefit from the presence of Boston West, a dedicated daycase centre which works alongside the Fitzwilliam Hospital for referrals.

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

In addition, many patients pay for their treatment themselves. Fitzwilliam Hospital have a number of finance options including 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 offers 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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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:

.co.uk

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THE OCULIST OPTICIANS PETERBOROUGH

A Vision of Excellence at Peterborough’s

OCULIST OPTICIANS In a world where you can be anything, being better is best. Helping to combine the highest standards of expertise an independent optician can provide, with character and a fun, vibrant relaxed vibe across the whole practice, Gerry Sondh and the team present their vision for excellence in Peterborough...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

DULL. DULL. DYNAMIC. It’s easy to see why The Oculist stands out from other opticians: what makes it unique and much more user-friendly than the multinational opticians who pile ‘em high and sell ‘em cheap, rushing patients through their revolving doors.

The Oculist instead gives you the gift of ‘time.’

“I worked and studied in London and Manchester, before I came to Peterborough in 2001. Ostensibly that was just for a year,” says Gerry Sondh, Optometrist/ Director of The Oculist in Peterborough.

“I saw an opportunity in Peterborough , and contrary to the plans that my family and I had, we stuck around. I had a burning desire to establish my own practice, and that was a plan I was determined to see through.”

“I’d worked in practices that, by virtue of their status as part of large chains, were founded on throughput and were very consistent... dull, even.”

“I wanted to create somewhere that the people we work with were clients not patients – after all, they’re not sick – I wanted my practice to reflect the individuality of our clients, offer amazing eyewear combined with a comprehensive eye examination.

My staff are all qualified opticians and wonderful personalities. When you mix all these characteristics together you create the happiest setting to work in. You give people The Oculist Experience.”

The Oculist was founded in 2007 and its bright décor is almost as vibrant as each member of the team. Dispensing opticians Rob and Hannah have been at The Oculist for nine years and Optometrist Nina seven years.

Watching this close knit team interact with each other is more like watching a group of close friends hang out. Clients respond accordingly, feeding off this energy.

The team buzz around making the client feel special and enable them to express their own sense of style through their eyewear. I had first hand experience of this as I chatted with the team. Without me even realising it they had put me through The Oculist Experience and I had a shortlist of frames that I love. It was a natural organic experience full of fun.

Optometrists Gerry and Nina provide 40- 50 minute eye examinations designed to assess vision, lifestyle and also provide a window into a client’s general health.

“The team buzz around making the client feel special and enable them to express their own sense of style through their eyewear!”

It’s long been accepted that a proper optical examination can pick up conditions like diabetes and glaucoma, but The Oculist’s Heidelberg OCT (optical tomography) can provide true health insights and stores scans from one examination to another to allow a clinician to monitor longitudinal changes from one eye examination to the next.

“The machine is eye-hospital standard. With the right clinician making use of it, there’s no better way to look after clients.

Together with computerised eye charts, a ‘no puff of air’ pressure test, visual field examination and tests for fixation disparity, binocular vision and colour vision, we’ve more ways than ever to gain a thorough insight into the real world visual problems that you might experience.”

The Oculist also provides specialist lenses for sports eyewear and sunglasses, pairing lenses from across the industry with frames from dedicated eyewear designers. The Oculist is a Seiko lens specialist but also offers Zeiss, Nikon, Essilor, Hoya and Tokai lenses.

“There are many designer names licensed to frames today,” says Gerry. “But our ranges are chosen not for their instantly recognisable brands, but for their quality and performance.

“Some names you’re unlikely to have heard of, but brands like Jacques Marie Mage provide limited edition frames and are renowned for their artisanal eyewear, whilst Face à Face produces fun contemporary designs, and Lindberg specialises in super-light high performance titanium frames engineered with spectacular precision. My three favourite brands right now are Kuboraum, Theo and Mykita.”

“In isolation, neither a great setting, or skilled clinicians, or the latest equipment, or the best eye examinations or brands alone make for a really good independent optician.”

“However, when a practice has all of the above, and a desire to really look after their clients and make them feel good about their vision too... that’s when an independent optician is able to really look after their clients and offer the best experience possible... The Oculist Experience!” n

Find Out More: The Oculist is an optician with a difference. To discover why, call for an appointment on 01733 555621 or see www.theoculist.com. The business is based on Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1PY. 126

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• Tattoo Removal

• Aquagold

• LED Light Therapy

• IPL Hair Removal

• Skin Boosters

• No Needle Botox

• IPL Skin Rejuvenation

• Medik8 Facials

• Microneedling

• Medik8 Peels

Facial • Carbon Laser Peel

• Radio Frequency Facial • Non-Surgical Bum, Arm & Tummy Lift

10 WILLOUGHBY DRIVE | EMPINGHAM | OAKHAM | LE15 8PZ 07368 971630 | Nu-uskin@outlook.com | www.nuuskinspecialist.co.uk

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Changing faces since 2007...

The Ocu ulist!

Hello! We are The Oculist, an festyle independent life opticians located EJ -APAN>KNKQCD O Westgate Arcade.

Since 20077 we have been providing our custom mers with what we like to call ‘The Oculisst Experience’.

We aim to marry a great setting, skilled a the latest equipment, with clinicians and a personal service and world-leading brand nam mes.

Come and experience the exact opposite of the stere eotypical optician experience – friendly, professional, personal and fun.

Why not co ome and see for yourself!

Book your personal consultation. Opening hours - Tuesday to Saturday 10am m - 5pm

If The Oculist sounds like the sort of opticians that you would enjoy, then get in touch on 01733 555 621.

www.theoculist.com 24 Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough, PE1 1PY

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Precious metal for the road.

There is a reason people will notice the new Panamera Platinum Edition.

A specially curated blend of the most desired comfort, technology and stylistic details, it’s composed with passion to be the ultimate symphony for the road.

The new Panamera Platinum Edition. Composed with passion.

Porsche Centre Leicester Fletton Close Thurmaston Lane Leicester, LE4 9LP 0116 490 9364 info@porscheleicester.co.uk www.porscheleicester.co.uk

Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Platinum Edition official WLTP weighted combined fuel consumption 113.0-141.2 mpg, WLTP weighted combined CO₂ emissions 48-57 g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes only and may not reflect real life driving conditions, which will depend upon a number of factors including any accessories fitted, variations in weather, topography and road conditions, driving styles, vehicle load and condition, and state of battery charge.

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