Stamford Pride Magazine December 2018 by Pride Magazines Ltd

PRIDE

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STAMFORD

STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

£4.50

Spending Christmas in Stamford

Festive events, food for celebrations, thoughtful gifts

Festive Celebrations with The BBC’s Anne Davies TV broadcaster on Christmas, supporting local charities and fashion

ANOTHER

164

BUMPER PAGES

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- WELCOME -

ecember is upon us and by extension, so is the festive season. It would be easy to be cynical about a season that is this stoically celebrated in the same fashion, with the same old Christmas songs and the same rituals each year, but by golly, we still absolutely adore the festive season here at Pride HQ.

We hope you’ve plans for a wonderful celebration with children and grandchildren, and to help you along the way, we’re this month presenting our festive gift guide which features our favourite local retailers. Alongside festive gifts, we’ve the usual wreaths and decorative accoutrements to ensure your home glows with festivity, for example, professional Christmas tree artist Sam Fox of Stamford, or the delicious festive treats we’ve created in conjunction with Katie Jones. Quite besides our festive features, we’re also enjoying winter dining at Barnsdale Lodge, we’re celebrating 10 years of Hambleton Bakery and casting our light on a year-long project by two locals to tell the story of how Rutland Water was created. All that remains, then, is for me to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very happy new year on behalf of the whole Pride team!

Executive Editor rob@pridemagazines.co.uk

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CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

CHRISTMAS BAKES Our pastry section whizz Katie Jones’ treats.

WHAT’S ON Rutland and Stamford’s best events for the month of December.

HOMES A contemporary barn conversion in Hallaton.

CHRISTMAS Traditions, festive

NEWS Our roundup of good news stories from across the area.

HIGHLIGHTS 32 42 55

miscellany and local events.

THE INTERVIEW Anne Davies, broadcaster and charity speaker at this year’s NSPCC concert in Oakham. 50 YEARS ON A new local project to

create a digital archive of Rutland Water’s first 50 years.

GIFT GUIDE Our local retailers

and their best festive gifts.

FOOD & DRINK 62 4

DINING OUT Wonderful winter

dining at Barnsdale Lodge.

HOMES & INTERIORS 92

CHRISTMAS HOMES Wonderful

ways toward festive style in your home.

OUTDOORS

108 WREATHS Seven festive wreaths 114

to hang on your door this month.

CHRISTMAS TREE ARTIST Hire your fully decorated from Sam Fox!

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

120 WEDDINGS Hazel & Marc’s big day. 125 147

FASHION Festive outfits and perfumes. HIGH LIFE A roundup of social events.

156 MOTORS Aston Martin’s Superleggera.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to properties in the top three council tax bands - homes which are predominantly worth over ÂŁ300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. In addition the magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents including Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, WHSmith Tesco, Asda, Co-Op and Morrisons. 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 magazines also have more social media fans than any other local magazine, and we are available to read free of charge, online on your tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website 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.

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

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

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to 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.

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson. Production Director: Ian Bagley. Advertising Director: Zoie Wilkinson. Telesales Director: Emily Brown. Field Sales Director: Roberta Hall Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Editor: Tilly Wilkinson. Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. Distribution: Joe Proctor. Office Manager: Sue Bannister. Account Managers: Lauren Chambers, Melissa Trestrail. Sales Executives: Charlotte Aiken, Hannah Boyle, Cassy Ayton, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Tina Waterfall.

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

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

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NEWS & EVENTS

Raddleman offers walking breaks RUTLAND Any resident of Rutland knows that England’s smallest county offers Multum in Parvo, but to spread the message even further, Easton on the Hill rambler Ian Strange is encouraging others to discover the county with series of scheduled group walks and the ability to design bespoke walking holidays for visitors. “I stepped outside my front door one day with my wife Dawn, and we set off on what turned out to be a week’s adventure across the county.” “We covered about 65 miles over the course of five days,” explained Ian “We had such an amazing yet simple week; every day was different from the next; the landscape was ever-changing; the B&Bs and hotels we chose were friendly and so welcoming (even with mucky walking boots!); it felt really satisfying and a great sense of achievement at the end.”

“The experience ignited the start of an idea. If we had got so much out of it, why wouldn’t other people?” Ian began to turn the seed of an idea into a proper

Will Stamford’s Khadija be told “You’re Hired”? LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR APPEARS ON BBC TV SERIES AND SURVIVES FIRST FEW GRUELLING WEEKS!

Image: Anglian Water.

RUTLAND’S IAN LAUNCHES NEW WALKING HOLIDAY BUSINESS IN THE COUNTY

walking holiday offerings, trying out and testing walks and trails across a range of distances, then meeting with owners of local hotels, B&Bs and restaurants.

Now, Ian has created walking holiday experiences that he believes others will enjoy just as much as he and Dawn did on their adventure! n See www.rutlandtrails.co.uk.

BOURNE Local mum Khadija Kalifa is hoping to hear the words “You’re Hired!” as Pride goes to press as this year’s BBC TV series The Apprentice hots up. Based in Bourne, Khadija runs a cleaning business, Opal & Pearl, based in Peterborough, and is competing on the show alongside 15 other competitors in the hope that she can win over the irascible figurehead of the show Sir Alan Sugar,

and obtain an investment in her business idea. “Watching myself last night on TV was pretty odd! I was even recognised by a parent on the school run this morning,” said Khadija. “It’s going to take some time to get used to this!” “I’ve received lots of compliments about how I hold my own and stand up for what was right, which is amazing!” n The Apprentice is on BBC1, Wed, 9pm.

Supporting Forces ARMED FORCES OFFICER TAKES UP POST

Matt Hampson’s Get Busy Living Centre officially opened... BURROUGH-ON-THE-HILL

“Our Armed Forces do an incredible job under really difficult circumstances,” says Michelle. They risk serious injury and their lives, in the line of duty and sacrifice basic freedoms that civilians can often take for granted.” “I feel very strongly that our Armed Forces Community, young and old, are an asset to where we live, contributing widely in many volunteer roles and enriching the diversity of our county.” n

Book now for Billy in 2019

A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT? LIVE PROMOTIONS TAKING BOOKINGS FOR BILLY OCEAN IN STAMFORD FOR JUNE 2019

STAMFORD Searching for a Christmas gift for someone who seems to have everything? Well, the area’s Live Promotions may have the answer. The company is bringing Billy Ocean to Burghley House on 8th June 2019, and tickets are on sale now with generous ‘Early Bird’ discounts. If you remember hits like Caribbean Queen, Love Really Hurts Without You and When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going, book tickets for your loved one and make it a weekend to remember with an overnight stay at, for example, The George of Stamford! n www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk.

1 Out Of 152

RUTLAND Members of the Armed Forces community in Rutland and two neighbouring local authority areas are to get help and support from a new, dedicated council officer. Michelle Woolman-Lane took up the brand-new post of ‘Armed Forces Officer’ for Rutland, and South Kesteven in August. Her role is to support Armed Forces personnel, reservists, veterans, service families and bereaved families in each of the three areas.

An impressive new centre for rehabilitation after catastrophic sports injuries been officially opened by Matt Hampson. The centre, nine miles west of Oakham, is the result of the Matt Hampson Foundation’s fundraising efforts after the former England Under 21 rugby player was paralysed from the neck down following a disasterous rugby tackle in 2005. n

RUTLAND residents enjoy the best healthcare in the whole of the UK when it comes to integrated health and social care, according to research by the Department of Health and Social Care. The DHSC looked at 152 local authority areas and emergency admissions and length of stay in hospital to determine that Rutland performs the best in the country for patient care. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

STAGE VERSION OF KES TO BENEFIT THE PHOEBE RESEARCH FUND

A new stage production of the Ken Loach film Kes marks the beginning of a new production company headed up by Coronation Street actor Steven Arnold (Ashley Peacock) and local mum Zoe Crowson. Together, they’ve formed Psychotastic Productions and their first production will see the pair casting nine talented individuals to help them get a foothold in world of theatre. 25% of the profit from all of Psychotastic’s productions will be donated to the Phoebe Research Fund, which raises money for and awareness of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, RDEB, which her daughter suffers from. For more information, visit the charity’s website at www.phoebe research.org.uk n

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NEWS

Tod’s Piece to be improved in 2019

UPPINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL SEEKING OPINION ON RECREATION AREA UPPINGHAM It’s a much loved part of Uppingham, but how can Tod’s Piece best serve the whole community? That’s what Uppingham Town Council is asking residents as it decides how to invest money in the recreation ground to benefit you and old alike when the facility is revamped in Autumn 2019. “We’re currently looking to engage a specialist consultant to improve Tod’s Piece for the benefit of the whole community.” “Improvements include the installation of fitness equipment around the park, updating and enlarging the young children’s play area and improving accessibility to and through the park.” This area of recreation ground and allotments beside North Street East commemorate a man called Tod, a mighty mower with the scythe. For a wager he under-

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

COULD YOU ‘TREAD THE BOARDS’ AT TOLETHORPE IN 2019?

Stamford’s Open-Air Theatre Company, based at Tolethorpe Hall, is now auditioning for parts in its 2019 performances of Julius Caesar, Twelfth Night and Nöel Coward’s Blithe Spirit. Auditions take place as Pride goes to press, if you’re interested, call 01780 754381. n

took to mow in one day the grass in this field measuring seven acres, two roods and 16 perches; this was considered impossible for a single man, but labouring from dawn to

sunset he achieved it, won his wager and then dropped dead of exhaustion. Nothing more is known about Tod the mower not even when he performed this feat.

Harping on for Charity

HARRIET FLATHER’S SIX HOUR HARP MARATHON AT OAKHAM CASTLE HELPS RAISE £5,000 FOR DEMENTIA UK

To decide how best to invest in the site, the council is inviting residents to take part in a short survey on its website. n To take part in the survey, see uppinghamtowncouncil.gov.uk OAKHAM Harpist Harriet Flather last month hosted a six-hour ‘harpathon’ at Oakham Castle to raise money for Dementia UK. The charity bid follows a previous fundraising performance which saw the local musician and her eye-catching black Salvi harp raise £886. The musician has played in major concert halls in the UK including Symphony Hall, Birmingham and Leeds Town Hall. Her audiences have included Michael Parkinson, and HRH The Prince of Wales. Harriet’s repertoire includes Mozart, Greig and Mascagni, as well as modern songs like Moon River, Love Me Do and Ed Sheeran’s Perfect. n

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Stainfield House is an exemplary stone character farmhouse situated in the heart of this popular hamlet. The property’s traditional interior features cosy and light-filled rooms, beamed ceilings, exposed stone and ingle nook fireplaces. Situated in the conservation area of the hamlet, this property offers versatile living and good bedroom accommodation, as well as an enclosed garden and a range of outbuildings. The characterful kitchen features exposed beams and this light bright room has beautiful views out of the duel aspect windows. With a spacious sitting room the focal point being its open fire and marble surround are many of the period features which run throughout the property and have been carefully restored by the current owners along with views across paddocks and surrounding rolling countryside.

tel: +44(0)1780 750200 email: stamford@ﬁneandcounty.com

tel: +44( 0)1572 335145 email: rutland@ﬁneandcounty.com

Stainfield HouSe, Stainfield £485,000

ﬁneandcountry.com

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Situated just outside the popular village of Kings Cliffe in a picturesque valley with views onto open meadows and rolling countryside, Huskissons Yard is a prestigious development combining former agricultural buildings and 21st century luxury living. The Stables, The Dairy, The Granary are three unique properties which are the result of considered design, vision and planning which has reinvigorated the derelict buildings for the enjoyment of future generations. Please enquire with Fine & Country Stamford for more information

225 oﬃces across great Britain Plus 75 oﬃces globally

HuSkiSSonS YaRd, kingS Cliffe Prices from £695,000 - £935,000

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THE GRANGE, LANGHAM

GUIDE PRICE £800,000

A substantial, ﬁve-bedroom, Grade II listed home with a separate two-bedroom cottage, mature gardens, outbuildings and stables, sitting at the heart of this popular Rutland village.

LOWER FARM, EMPINGHAM

GUIDE PRICE £700,000

Jo Walker

Lauren Rees

Caroline Leonard

Henry Burgess

A substantial and handsome, Grade II listed four bedroomed stone village property in need of modernisation, sitting on the edge of this popular Rutland village with views over open country side.

James Sellicks

S A L E S • L E T T I N G S • S U R V E Y S • M O R T G A G E S

TITHE BARN, WING

GUIDE PRICE £795,000

A detached three bedroomed property set back in a discreet position within this popular village, with oﬀ road parking, a double garage and a beautiful mature enclosed rear garden.

CHARITY COTTAGE, PICKWELL

OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £495,000

An immaculately presented three bedroomed village home with deceptively spacious accommodation and beautiful mature grounds, sitting in the heart of this popular village.

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

The Old Rectory, Market Overton

The perfect Grade II Listed Old Rectory in an edge of village position with far reaching south westerly views

Edward Brassey 01858 438 723 Edward.brassey@struttandparker.com

Guide Price Â£1,895,000

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NOAIN CH

ASHWELL

NOAIN CH

£795,000

A beautiful Grade II listed detached Country House oﬀering extensive family accommodation with a wealth of character throughout and set within very private, glorious gardens and grounds of approx. 1.0 acre in the centre of this desirable village. 3 Rec. Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms; Dbl Garage, parking. EPC Exempt.

ER AT WS W IE V

HAMBLETON

CLIPSHAM

Guide Price £750,000

Elegant period property sympathetically extended to oﬀer spacious, well-proportioned accommodation requiring some routine updating situated in the heart of this prestigious Rutland village. 4 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 3 dbl Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms; Dbl Garage, attractive Gardens. Energy Rating: F.

NOAIN CH

Guide Price £699,000

An attractive semi-detached Barn Conversion set on a good sized plot, located approximately 1/2 mile to the east of the village of Hambleton, on the peninsula and enjoying panoramic views over Rutland Water. The property oﬀers ﬂexible, spacious family accommodation with abundance of character. Sitting Room, Living Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 5 dbl Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. Energy Rating: E.

BARROW

£599,950

Substantial detached period property set on a good sized plot in a rarely available location, surrounded by established gardens and enjoying panoramic rural views. 3 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 4 Bedrooms, Bathroom, large loft space. Dbl Garage, ample parking, lovely gardens. Energy Rating: E.

W NE ICE PR

UPPINGHAM

£379,950

Charming period cottage with west-facing garden and oﬀ-road parking situated in the very heart of town centre. This charming property has retained many original features including huge Inglenook ﬁreplace, beamed ceilings and areas of exposed stonework. Sitting Room, Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm, 3 Bedrooms, Shower Room, Attic Room. Energy Rating: E.

WING

£350,000

Extended semi-detached stone-built Grade II listed cottage with single Garage, off-road parking and pretty gardens situated in a picturesque village and enjoying open countryside views. The property offers spacious and beautifully presented accommodation arranged over four floors with 2 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms, En-suite Shower Room and Family Bathroom. EPC Exempt.

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ER R D E UN FF

A newly built, four bedroom, 3 storey, stone family home, located in the heart of Stamford • Large Entrance Hall • Guest Bedroom Suite • Kitchen/Dining/Living Area • Bedroom 3, Dressing Room • Lounge • Bedroom 4, Study/Bedroom 5 • Utility, Boot Room, WC • Family Bathroom • Principal Bedroom Suite • Double Garage, Games Room

ER R D E UN FF

A superb south facing, stone house situated on the edge of the village with a paddock, extending to approximately two acres • Reception Hall, Cloakroom • Drawing Room, Conservatory • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Utility, Study, Dining Room • Principal Bedroom Suite

STAMFORD – GUIDE PRICE £1,400,000

ER R D E UN FF

An exceptional Grade II listed stone country house situated close to the shores of Rutland Water in the sought after village of Edith Weston • Reception Hall • 3 Further Bedrooms • Drawing Room • Family Bathroom • Sitting Room • Large Parking Area • Kitchen, Dining Room • Private Gardens • Principal Bedroom En-Suite • Village Location

EDITH WESTON – GUIDE PRICE £995,000

• Guest Bedroom with En Suite • Two Further Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Double Garage, Gardens • Approximately 2.1 acres

YARWELL – GUIDE PRICE £795,000

W E E N RIC P

A substantial un-listed country home in an enviable position set in about 2.25 acres combining privacy with far reaching southerly views across the beautiful Welland • Reception Hall • Snooker Room & Wine Cellar • Orangery & four further Reception rooms • Cinema / Games room • Kitchen / Breakfast / Family room • Indoor Swimming Pool, Gymnasium • Principle Bedroom suite • Triple Garage with further Single Garage • Five further Bedrooms, four with En Suites • In all about 2 ¼ acres of Grounds

TIXOVER – GUIDE PRICE £1,999,000

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HIGHLIGHTS

The Story of

CHRISTMAS

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there...But why? Our Christmas traditions are quite peculiar out of context, so we discovered their origins and the story behind Christmas... Christmas is of course a magical time of year but especially for children. I still remember leaving a mince pie and a glass of sherry curiously my Dad’s favourite - by the fire for Father Christmas, and a few carrots by the door to ensure Rudolph doesn’t go without. My sister and I had written our wish lists, hoped we were on Santa’s ‘nice list’ and went to bed super early to lie awake all night thinking about all of Santa’s presents downstairs.

However. If I ever had the chance to describe this sequence of events to an indigenous tribe in the jungles of Borneo - let’s face it, there aren’t many people in the world who can avoid Christmas - they’re sure to think I’ve lost the plot. A ritual of leaving food and drink out for a fat man in red who climbs down your chimney after arriving via flying deer in the dead of night to give your children 22

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

gifts under a tree you’ve covered in circular objects sounds odd at best. Context is key, especially when it comes to our bizarre beliefs.

That’s why in this edition of Pride, we’ve looked into some of our weird and wonderful Christmas traditions we’ve all come to know and love, and discovered why on earth we’re setting fire to the pudding each year or shouting ‘he’s behind you!’ to a middle-aged man in drag.

We’ve mixed opinions on the festive season and to the Scrooges who disapprove, a Bah

“According to a recent survey, 39% of the population agree that Christmas is their favourite time of the year and 86% say they enjoy the festive season...”

Humbug to you. Christmas for me is the most wonderful time of year and 39% of the population agrees based on a recent survey. 86% say they still enjoy the festive season. In the poll conducted by Costa Coffee based on 2,000 adults, the top 10 favourite strange British traditions have been revealed.

Number one is having turkey on Christmas Day followed by watching a classic film and listening to Christmas songs. Unfortunately, the days of carol singing are becoming a thing of the past.

We’ve looked into all of them from brussels sprouts - this is a tradition too far for me quite frankly - to advent calendars. Read about their origins and the reasons why we carry out our odd little rituals, and a very Merry Christmas!

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Christmas Cards

A well thought out marketing strategy...

Having helped to set up the Public Records Office which is now the Post Office, Sir Henry Cole (above) formed a plan to boost business. He recruited the likes of talented 19th century artist John Horsley and together they made the first Christmas card in 1843. It was used as a way of encouraging people to use the Post Office services and it worked incredibly well. Cards cost a shilling, which is almost £5.75 now, and stamps a penny - that is about 40p at modern prices. Advances in printing brought prices down, making cards hugely popular by the 1860s. By 1900 the custom of sending Christmas cards had spread throughout Europe. Nearly 100 million Christmas single cards were sold in 2017 and a further 900 million were sold in boxes and packs, bringing the total for the Christmas card market to one billion cards sold in the UK just last year. The country loves cards; in total, we spent £1.7 billion on greeting cards in the UK last year.

Fun Fact: One of Sir Henry’s first ever Christmas cards, which he had sent to his Grandmother, was recently sold at an auction for a total of £22,500.

Christmas Crackers Designed by a sweet maker in London inspired by traditional paper-wrapped French bon bons

London sweet maker Tom Smith invented the infamous Christmas cracker in the late 1840s, inspired by traditional, paper-wrapped French bon bons.

Even though he included mottos or riddles inside each, it was not until he found a way to make them ‘crack’ when pulled apart that sales took off.

He tried to create sweets like the French delicacy in London and included riddles and mottos in each but they didn’t sell well, which prompted him to come up with the idea of crackers.

According to legend, he was sat by the fire as it crackled, fascinated by the sound, and wondered if he could incorporate that crack into his sweets and toys as a customer’s opened them.

His sons Tom, Walter and Henry later added hats and novelty gifts. They also themed them and created crackers specifically for singles, suffragettes and even the Royals who still have their own range of crackers.

Fun Fact: Crackers were originally called ‘cosaques’ and were thought to be named after the ‘Cossack’ soldiers who had a reputation for riding on their horses and firing guns into the air!

Mince Pies: Filled with fruit and spice and all things nice... Early mince pies were of course made of mincemeat, fruit and spice and inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine brought back by to England by the Crusaders.

The pies commonly had 13 ingredients representing Christ and the Apostles, and were formed in a large oval shape to represent the

manger. The cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg ingredients were included to represent the gifts given to Jesus by the three Eastern Kings.

Fun Fact: Over the years, they’ve had a flurry of names including shrid pies, Christmas pies, crib cakes and mutton pies. They were even called wayfarers’ pies at one time, as they were given to visitors during Christmas.

Christmas Plants

Holly & Ivy and Mistletoe

Holly and ivy were used in pre-Christian times to celebrate the winter solstice. As they provide a rare splash of colour in winter, their popularity has endured.

Hanging mistletoe in the home is an ancient pagan practice adopted by early Christians. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe originates from England. Each kiss required a berry to be plucked until none remained.

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CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Carols

Christmas Carols A pagan

tradition that still, loosely, exists today...

Carols were songs and dances of praise and joy in pagan times and the practice of carol singing carried over into the Christian era.

Carols have been written through the centuries but the most familiar date from Victorian times, and the word carol originally meant to dance to something. Today, popular songs such as Bing Crosby’s White Christmas and Slade’s Merry Xmas Everybody are just as much a part of Christmas as carols.

Santa’s Snacks Not excluding

Dasher & Dancer’s midnight treat too.

Leaving treats out for Santa and his reindeer is usually done as a test to see whether he exists, or as an act of good will. The treat differs between countries. In America it’s usually milk and cookies, in most of Britain it’s sherry or a mince pie (of your dad’s favourite brand ironically), and in Scotland it’s a nice big tumbler of Scotch. Sometimes,

people also leave food for the reindeer outside such as carrots and apples. The tradition is related to the northern European tradition of leaving a food sacrifice for various protective spirits, most importantly the house gnome. House gnomes were later conflated with Saint Nicholas to become the modern day Santa Claus.

e Tradition of the Christmas Pudding Whatever you call it plum pudding, figgy pudding - this festive dessert is a staple of Christmas dinner. Even if no one likes it, we’ll still set fire to a pudding at Christmas. Here’s why...

Christmas pudding originated as a 14th century porridge called ‘frumenty’ that was made of beef and mutton with raisins, currants, prunes, wines and spices. This would often be more like soup and was eaten as a fasting meal in preparation for the Christmas festivities.

By 1595, frumenty was slowly changing into a plum pudding, having been thickened with eggs, breadcrumbs, dried fruit and given more flavour with the addition of beer and spirits. It became the customary Christmas dessert around 1650, but in 1664 the Puritans banned it as a bad custom. In 1714, King George re-established it as part of the Christmas meal, having tasted it. By Victorian times, Christmas Puddings had changed into something similar to the ones that are eaten today.

The sprig of holly on the top is a reminder of Jesus’s Crown of Thorns he wore when killed. Brandy is poured over the pudding and lit to make a display and to represent Jesus’s love and power. Fun Fact: Tokens used to be placed in the pudding. The Bachelor’s Button and the Spinster’s Thimble meant that the single man/woman who found it, would stay single for the following year. The Ring if found by a single person meant they would get married in the following year!

Mulled Wine: Invented by the Romans in 2nd Century to defend their bodies against the cold winter... Red Wine: Use two bottles of fairly inexpensive wine and add to a saucepan.

Port: Add two shots of port to the wine.

Orange: Cut into five segments, stuff with cloves then add to pan.

Spices: Add one teaspoon of cinnamon and one of nutmeg.

Add a stick of cinnamon and star anise for an extra kick and to make your house smell great. Brown Sugar: Add anything from two

to five spoonfuls of sugar depending on your preference.

Heat for around 20 minutes. Make sure not to boil, then strain.

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Turkey

The luxury lean meat that was once just for royalty and high society Turkeys originated in Mexico and were first brought to Britain in 1526 by William Strickland.

Henry VIII enjoyed turkey and although the bird seemed to become fashionable in high society at this time, it was until the late 19th century when Edward VII made it de rigueur at Christmas for the middle classes. However, even by 1930 it took a week’s wages to buy one and turkey remained a luxury until the 1950s At least 76% of British homes will stick true to the nation’s favourite Christmas dinner, despite the popularity in other meat options over recent years. Even the Queen herself is a noted connoisseur of the Christmas dish, according to her former royal chef Darren McGrady, who served the British Royal Family for many years. “It was the same meal every year,” he said. “They’re actually boring when it comes to festivities! They didn’t do hams or anything, just traditional turkeys.” “We did three turkeys for the Queen and her family in the royal dining room, one for the children’s nursery and then more for the 100 or so staff, so everyone had a Christmas lunch.”

Fun Fact: In the UK, we eat around 10 million turkeys every year for Christmas time.

Stockings Large socks filled with wrapped goods... Leaving stockings out at Christmas goes back to the legend of St Nicholas. Known as the gift giver, on one occasion he sent bags of gold down a chimney at the

home of a poor man who had no dowry for his unmarried daughters. The gold fell into stockings left hanging to dry. St Nicholas was later referred to by the

Brussels Sprouts: Love them or hate them! Brussels sprouts. The destroyer of Christmas day, the cause of family disputes, but in some questionable opinions, just a tasty vegetable to enjoy during the Christmas season... Despite the smell of rotten egg when overboiled or the taste and texture of something unhuman, Britain still loves - or politely puts up with - sprouts.

The sprout industry is worth upwards of £650,000,000. Their popularity grew in the 16th century in Holland and Belgium, an indication to how the mini cabbages acquired their name.

Sprouts are easily grown on our Continent and sweetest after a frost, but the association with Christmas day itself is unknown.

Fun Fact: Brussels sprouts are super healthy! They pack four grams of protein a cup, they’re full of fibre and they’re a good source of calcium, potassium, and vitamins C, A, and K.

Dutch as Sinterklaas and eventually, by the English as Santa Claus. Fun Fact: In the Netherlands, they put shoes by the far to be filled with gifts. I suppose it’s just as strange!

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CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Games

Board Games

Cluedo Win: If someone keeps repeating the same thing, is it definite? Cheat: Pretend to tick things to trick your savviest opponents.

Christmas Entertainment: Pantomimes

The Romans invented the British panto. Oh, yes they did!

Pantos are very British but they came from un-British traditions with no connection to Christmas! Pantomime really began as an entertainment for adults. It can be traced back to the ancient Roman ‘Saturnalia’ midwinter feast, at which everything was supposed to be turned

upside down. Men dressed up as women and women as men, just like the Pantomime Dames and principal boys (young women dressing up as boys in the lead role) of the modern day panto. This combined with the baddies and jesters in Italian ‘commedia dell’arte’ in the 18th century creates

what’s recognised as a British panto today. They also became an expected part of our Christmas festivities, traditionally starting on Boxing Day although most start earlier nowadays. Fun Fact: A general rule of thumb in panto is that the hero enters stage-right and the villain from stage-left.

e Ninth Reindeer: Rudolph and his shiny red nose... Rudolph and his shiny red nose was born 100 years after his eight counterparts. Robert May of Montgomery Ward department store in America wrote the story of Rudolph guiding Santa through the fog to boost

sales in the festive season. His poem sold over two and a half million copies and further three and a half million when reissued in 1946. Fun Fact: Rudolph’s message is that given the opportunity, a liability can be turned into an asset.

e Tradition of the Christmas Tree

Monopoly Win: Aim for the orange squares; people land here the most. Cheat: Get the role of banker or sit in close proximity...

I’ve always questioned why we spend hours in the cold searching for a suitable fir tree dripping with sap to place in the main room in the name of Christmas...

The evergreen fir tree has traditionally been used to celebrate winter festivals for thousands of years. Pagans used branches of it to decorate their homes during the winter solstice, as it made them think of the spring to come. The Romans used fir trees to decorate their temples at the festival of Saturnalia. Christians use it as a sign of everlasting life with God. Nobody is sure when they were first used as Christmas trees. The first documented use of a tree at Christmas is argued between the cities of Tallinn in Estonia and Riga in Latvia. Both claim that they had the first trees; Tallinn in 1441 and Riga in 1510. Both trees were put up by the ‘Brotherhood of Blackheads’ which was an association of local unmarried merchants in Livonia (now Estonia and Latvia).

Scrabble Win: Memorise short high point words like ‘Qat’ and ‘Xu.’ Cheat: Download an app that finds all potential words for you.

Fun Fact: The first Christmas Trees came to Britain in the 1830s. They became popular in 1841, when Prince Albert and Queen Victoria had a tree set up in Windsor Castle. In 1848, drawings of this were published in the Illustrated London News. The drawing was republished in Philadelphia in December 1850 but they removed the Queen’s crown and Albert’s moustache to make it look more ‘American!’

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We wish you a local

CHRISTMAS With plenty of events, shopping opportunites and other treats to enjoy this season, you need go no further than Rutland and Stamford to celebrate the season...

That most wonderful time of the year, and where better to spend it than Rutland and Stamford? Of course, before the event itself, there’s gifts to purchase and a tree to decorate.

You’ll find the job a good deal easier with a visit to Gates Garden Centre at Cold Overton. With over 14,000sq ft of festive decorations alone, the centre’s Christmas Department is open now, with 12 different themed trees and all of the decorations you need to create that theme around them. In addition, there’s a large gift department with toys for younger recipients, books and puzzles, and gifts for ladies and gentlemen to make preparing for the season more convenient. Speaking of convenience, because the centre is all under one roof, because there’s lots of free parking spaces and because there’s a 360 seater restaurant on site too, you’ll find shopping at Gates a cinch, no matter what the weather.

Festive Shopping Events: Thoughtful gifts and Christmas food

Fine Food Market, 6th December:

Burghley House hosts 30 local suppliers at the biggest ever four day festive celebration of local produce. Handmade cheese, organic vegetables and rare breed meats. n See www.burghley.co.uk.

Christmas in Uppingham, 6th December: Enjoy late night shopping, a craft and gift fair in the town hall, market stalls, choirs, hot food, buskers, children’s activities and of course, Father Christmas! n See www.christmasinuppingham.co.uk.

Oakham Market, 10th December:

Burghley House hosts 30 local suppliers at the biggest ever four day festive celebration of local produce. Handmade cheese, organic vegetables and rare breed meats. n Call 07974 810771 for details.

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Live Shows to enjoy over Christmas & New Year

Beauty & The Beast, 9th December:

Join Ballet Theatre UK with one of the most enchanting love stories of all time, Beauty and the Beast, at Stamford Corn Exchange. Call 01780 766455 for more information or visit the website www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk. n

Another great shopping destination is Oldrids of Gonerby Junction just off the A1. The company has access to 250,000 lines in total and its buying power and space on its 25 acre Downtown site means plenty of undercover shopping. Beyond great shopping though, Downtown this season offers a great festive day out, with an indoor ice rink throughout December (£7.50/adults, £5/children) and Santa in his grotto from 1st-24th December. Look out, too, for the centre’s giant snowglobe where you can enjoy an ‘indoor snowball fight.’ Festive Entertainment

Speaking of blending festive shopping with lots of fun, Stamford will host its Christmas lights switch-on and festival thorughout the town, from High Street to Ironmonger Street, Broad Street, Sheepmarket and Red Lion Square on Sunday 25th November from 10am, with

Santa’s grotto, craft and food stalls, a fun fair and of course, wonderful shopping from the town’s independent retailers.

Christmas for us doesn’t begin properly until the first Monday in December, when Oakham’s All Saints Church hosts a charity concert for the NSPCC. Organised by Margaret Wheeler and others, the event has raised over £190,000 for the charity in its 11 year history, and features festive readings from prominent local faces as well as music with plenty of audience participation.

Snow White, 6th January:

RATS (Rutland Arts Theatre Company) this year presents Snow White, at Brooke Priory School Theatre, Station Road, Oakham, starting at 2.30pm. Tickets are £8 for adults and £5 for children. Email robin@oakhamteam.org.uk. n

There’s yet more festive entertainment at Burghley House’s Angel Fair Champagne Reception on 5th December, hosted by Lady Victoria Leatham, with 30 chalets and a large festive marquee of stalls offering seasonal gifts alongside the stately home’s food and drink fair from 6th - 9th December. n

Gates Garden Centre, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Oldrids Downtown, Gonerby Junction, A1, 01476 590239. NSPCC Concert, All Saints Church, Oakham, call 01572 813626. Burghley House, 01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk.

Sleeping Beauty, 27th Dec - 1st Jan:

Stamford Pantomime Players are also hosting a pantomime at the Corn Exchange this year. Sleeping Beauty features three funny fairy sisters to Princess Aurora - Moonbeam, Sunlight and Stardust. Call 01780 766455 or visit stamfordcornexchange.co.uk. n

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Self Assessment (Don’t wake up with a Financial Hangover...) Barnstone here is ready to party... and of course, he can celebrate Christmas and New Year without worrying about his finances, because he’s well-prepared for the Self Assessment deadline of 31st January 2019... but can you say the same? The Self-Assessment deadline is looming, so don’t wake up with a financial hangover in January. Barnstone Accountancy can help you avoid penalties and help you to get your finances in order, leaving you free to enjoy the season... cheers! We’re human (well, apart from Barnstone), so we promise to talk to you like a human; you know, in a jargon-free, no waffle way! We’re available during evenings and weekends too - even over the festive season and promise to respond to our client’s queries within 24 hours...! We’re the approachable accountants that make your life easier... so give us a call!

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TH E

I N T E RV I E W

ANNE

BBC BROADCASTER AND CHARITY SPEAKER

DAVIES

e familiar face of the BBC’s evening news, Anne Davies is in a privileged position to see the best and the worst of society... that’s why she’s a passionate supporter of charities like Oakham’s NSPCC, speaking at its concert each year Words: Rob Davis.

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I worked for Central News as a freelancer through the late 1980s and early 1990s. en, in 1993, I opened the ﬁrst GMTV programme alongside Eamonn Holmes, which I’m still really proud of today! THE STUDIO CLOCK approaches 6pm, and with to-the-second timing, an unflappable Anne Davies delivers the 11 second teasers that provide viewers with a preview of that evening’s news agenda.

Having presented the BBC’s East Midlands Today programme since 2001, Anne has a knack of blending professionalism with just the right amount of human emotion, and is justifiably proud both of the programme and of a career in broadcasting from 1981 to 2018. Anne celebrated a milestone birthday this year, and is looking forward to putting her feet up this Christmas... after doing her bit for children in our area. How did your career in the media begin?

I was born in Surrey and after three years of University down in Aberystwyth, I began working for BBC Current Affairs. I was straight out of a secretarial course, but the variety and quality of programming I was able to contribute to was really impressive; I worked on Panorama, Question Time, and The Money Programme.

I always wanted to work in radio and tried, unsuccessfully, to make my way into BBC Leicester. I didn’t get that job but I did get what was known at the time as an Attachment [a sort of apprenticeship with the BBC] and so I spent what turned out to be an absolutely incredible four months working on the corporation’s Derbyshire and Leicestershire stations.

Next I worked for Central News as a freelancer through the late 1980s and early 1990s, and in 1993, I opened the first GMTV programme alongside Eamonn Holmes. >> Opposite: Anne with her fellow NSPCC Oakham charity concert readers Peter Wheeler and Rosemary Conley.

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T H E I N T E RV I E W A N N E DAV I E S

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“

T H E I N T E RV I E W A N N E DAV I E S

”

You can’t be weeping and wailing but there are stories that have more emotional resonance. I was reporting on coverage of Madeline McCann’s disappearance in 2007 and as a mum of two children myself there was no escaping the emotional impact of that story. You see people’s lives in a very raw state...

Yes... I opened a new morning news programme. Although ‘morning’ is pushing it somewhat, the starts were 3am, so really it should be called ‘middle of the night’ TV! Then, two months later, I married my partner and fell pregnant later that year too, so it was a real rollercoaster, but an incredible time!

There are about 100 people who contribute to the programme, we’re all hands-on and all determined to maintain the quality and professionalism of our work, and when others around you show that same quality, it makes working alongside them a pleasure, even in a pressured environment like a newsroom where a late-breaking story can upset all of that day’s carefully thought-out plans.

That’s right. A girl can only miss her beauty sleep for so long, so after eight years of news casting, cookery, foreign travel and fun it was back home to Leicestershire, lots of friends and a job you usually only get to dream of ! I moved back to the East Midlands in 2001 to co-present East Midlands Today as well as working on Inside Out and a mid-morning show on BBC Radio Leicester.

It does and you meet people in both wonderful circumstances, and terrible ones too. You can’t be weeping and wailing but there are stories that have more emotional resonance. I was reporting on Madeline McCann’s disappearance in 2007 [for which Anne won an RTS television award] and as a mum of two children there was no escaping the emotional impact of that story.

And that was a year that turned out to be very exciting indeed?

You were there for about eight years?

Presenting the show must be demanding... and stressful?

I always think that stress is subjective. I remember when I was working at Central News I had been following the progress of two transplant patients. They were two sisters and had gone through the most incredible journey together. The time came for a big operation and I was afforded privileged access to the operating theatre.

I’m useless with medical stuff - I can’t even stand to give blood - but I was suddenly staring at a surgeon performing the most incredible feat, juggling organs and changing two people’s lives so profoundly. At this point he looked up at me and muttered ‘I don’t know how you can do your job.’ I was astounded, but I guess it’s what you get used to. I would say, though, that we’re a really dedicated and hard-working team. We’re proud of the ethical way we report the news, and how honest we are. You have to maintain professionalism, but to do that entirely would mean coming across as quite detached, so I’ve always felt that it’s a good thing to have that human quality too, to be sort of emotionally honest with viewers.

And reporting the news must involve some emotional moments?

You see people’s lives in a very raw state, but that can be very rewarding, too. When someone shows positivity in adversity you have to feel privileged to have that front row seat looking into their lives when stories come onto our radar. Is that why you’re keen to support local charities?

Definitely. I’ve always supported Children in Need and will be doing so again at the end of November. Again being a mum to two children who are now grown up, you feel that resonance. And presumably that’s why you’re appearing in Oakham again this year?

That’s right. I’ve been a reader for a number of years at the NSPCC’s annual Christmas Carol concert in Oakham. It’s attended by about 400 people and this year will be the 12th event when it takes place in the first week of December. Last year it raised £34,000 for the charity and the year before it was just as successful. Mary Berry was one of the early readers and rejoined the event for its tenth anniversary. The event has raised over £190,000 for the NSPCC and benefits children in our area, which is rewarding to know. It’s a heartwarming event but it also represents the start of the festive season, too. >>

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T H E I N T E RV I E W A N N E DAV I E S

>> I am proud to be a Patron of Rainbows Childrens Hospice, LOROS, the Leicester Hospice Charity and Forever Stars, supporting families affected by stillbirth. They all do the most extraordinary work and it means a great deal to me to be involved with them. What are your plans for the festive season?

We’ve had some really great family Christmas Days but the way you celebrate changes as you get older and as your children grow up too. I had a really lovely celebration earlier in the year for my birthday, so I’m looking forward to having a quiet one, enjoying winter walks with my three beloved but thoroughly spoilt Spaniels! You’re incredibly passionate about the area?

I do love the countryside but we’re really lucky to live in a part of the world that has just the right blend of countryside and civilisation. I live near Melton Mowbray so I’m lucky to live near to Leicester, Oakham and Stamford; all really great places. And fashion is another passion?

My taste in clothes is a bit like Marmite. I get a lot of ‘boos’ and a lot of applause in equal measure for my taste in outfits. You either love them or you hate them. But they are my passion!

I have far too many clothes. I never throw them out. I buy in sales, on the High Street, abroad and at home. Obviously there are only certain things you can wear on TV, but I do occasionally like to challenge the accepted idea of a traditional newsreader... occasionally! If I had all the money in the world I would champion Vivienne Westwood. I love her mad jelly shoes, the quirky cut of her dresses, the prints, the bags and the woman herself for her individuality and strength of character. You’ve also set up a Fashion Awards for the East Midlands? Why?

Because the area is renowned for producing clothing, and the world being the way it is these days, it can be difficult for young people to make their way into the industry.

The fashion industry is worth £32bn to the UK economy, and it’s a form of art as much as any other medium, from High Street to couture. The aim was to recognise the work of young people and allow them to gain recognition for their future as aspiring designers. The Fashanne Awards began in 2015 with our first event staged at Belvoir Castle being likened in Tatler Magazine to Dior showing at Belenheim. Since then the FashionDesigners of the Future Awards have gone from strength to strength. The next two day event will be staged in April 2020 offering key note talks from industry leaders, Q and A’s with our judges and of course the fabulous Awards night itself. Quite the foodie, too?

I am, and I blame my father. Saturday night was his night in the kitchen. He used every saucepan, plate, spoon and knife in the Above/Right: Last year’s FashAnne awards.

house. He followed recipes religiously and - helped along by a whiskey or three - produced some pretty fabulous dishes. I don’t get to cook or bake as often as I like as I’m really busy but I do appreciate really good food! Broadcasting must mean long hours?

Presenting the late news on Monday and Tuesdays means I rarely get home before 11.30pm, and for the remainder of the week I usually work until half past seven in the evening.

As soon as we reach the studios there’s a production meeting in which we determine the running order for the show. We spend the afternoon writing scripts and headlines, then record the 6pm teaser with two of the evening’s best stories. Though we’re presenters, myself and Dominic [Heale] work really closely with the reporters to really get a feel for the stories that they’re working on, to really understand them. It’s TV, so anything can change right up to the last minute but I’m lucky to work with some outstanding people who all have the same sense of professionalism and integrity. A sense of professionalism you’re keen to impart in others?

I also run a series of presenter coaching courses at the BBC which is so rewarding. To help the next generation of presenters find their voice is something that means a great deal to me. I’ve reached a great age in broadcasting and if I can pass something on I think it’s important to do so. Any final words of wisdom...?

I remember when I began in broadcast and promised myself that the two things I would never do were news and breakfast television... the lesson learnt was never say there’s something you won’t do! n Anne presents East Midlands Today, weeknights, 6.30pm, the NSPCC Concert in Oakham’s All Saints Church takes place on Monday 3rd December.

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LOCAL HISTORY

Rutland Water 50 YEARS ON So established and beloved is Rutland Water that it’s diﬃcult to remember a time when the area was pasture and farmland. at’s why a new community project is keen to preserve as many memories of the twin Gwash valleys as possible. Tony Gray and Ben Searle are embarking on a huge project to preserve as many records, images and ﬁrst-hand accounts as possible of the birth of Rutland Water... Words: Rob Davis. Images: Rutland Community Ventures.

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- HISTORY -

Rutland attracts over 1.75m visitors each year, ensuring its tourist sector is worth £124m to the area and directly supports over 1,600 jobs. Arguably the county’s biggest draw - and the largest man-made object in the county - is Rutland Water, with its 3,100 acres of countryside, 124 cubic metres of water and myriad activities from watersports to birdwatching and fishing. So much a part of the area’s infrastructure and its economy is the water that 50 years after the Act of Parliament was passed giving the development the green light, it’s now almost impossible to recall a time when the reservoir didn’t exist. However, in the late 1960s, creating such a significant landmark resulted in a heady mix of excitement, scepticism and anger in Rutland – a controversy now almost forgotten. Two Rutland men, though, are determined that the controversy, the outcomes and the achievement in creating what was at the time Europe’s biggest reservoir won’t be forgotten.

In November 2017, Tony Gray and Ben Searle submitted a Heritage Lottery Fund bid for a project to capture the story of building the reservoir using the personal accounts of those who were affected by its development. They were successful and on 23rd April 2018 they received £10,000 to complete the project.

“Our aim was to capture the memories of those affected by the building of the reservoir and digitise the documents telling the story of its creation,” says Tony. “We had been discussing the idea of digitising family photos, home videos and other documents to create a sort of Family Memory archive for future generations of our families; and we wondered if there was a similar possibility of creating ‘Community Memory’ archives.”

“Following conversations with Rutland County Museum; the fact that I’ve been a member of Rutland Sailing Club for more than 30 years; and a realisation that it was 50 years since planning permission was given for the construction of the lake; we 44

thought that creating a documentary film and digital archive based on the reservoir’s story would have a really broad appeal.”

“As it happens, there’s a fantastic book ‘The Heritage of Rutland Water,’ which was published by the Rutland Local History and Records Society about 10 years ago. And this recorded in fine detail the formal history of the area. But rather than focusing on documents, we wanted to make our project about the people involved – the memories, stories and experiences of those who lived through its creation. And this is what we set out to do.” “For instance, one of our first contacts was Nick Balmer, who left the sixth form at Oakham School aged 17 to work as an engineering Technical Assistant at the construction site. He’s a fount of marvellous memories. For example, one of his first jobs was to take the new map of the lake – which he told us had been created from an aerial photograph because the original 1920s Ordnance Survey was insufficiently accurate – and then walk along the correct contour line hammering in wooden pegs to mark the

“Our aim was to capture the memories of those aﬀected by the building of the reservoir, and to digitise the documents that tell the story of its creation...”

Below: Tony Gray and Ben Searle are embarking on HLF-funded project to create an archive of documents, interviews and photos detailing personal accounts from the construction of Rutland Water.

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ultimate high water level which the lake would reach once filled.”

“We’ve also been able to reunite Nick, who’s now a senior engineer, with Frank Knight, his former boss whom he hadn’t seen for 43 years, and who has donated to the project both his memories and a store of documents for us to digitise.”

“Anglian Water have also been supportive of our work. In fact, we’ve been able to secure several scrapbooks going back to the late 1960s and early 70s containing press cuttings, photographs and other amazing material. All of this will eventually find its way to the local records office in Leicester, but for now we are digitising sample material for use in the project exhibition next summer.”

“One key aim is to capture the impact the creation of Rutland Water had on the lives

of those who were most affected by its building; those whose homes, farms and livelihoods were located where the water is now. And we have been lucky to be able to talk to several farmers and others affected, gathering their memories and experiences of the time.”

“And of course everyone locally was affected. Unsurprisingly therefore, when the proposal was made to build the reservoir, a vigorous campaign ‘Don’t Drown Our County’ began.” “This involved public meetings, campaigning by the NFU, representations to parliament, the formation of the local branch of the Campaign for the Preservation of Rural England, and the raising of a special 3d rate by the county council to pay for the campaign. A series of negative poems even appeared in the local press, including one entitled ‘The Rape of Rutland!’” >>

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This Page: Press clippings from the time reveal the controversy that the proposed development took, but the tide soon turned as a petition to rename Empingham Reservoir â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rutland Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was the first step to ensuring the county could take ownership of the new facility. Headlines of doomed churches and shattered peace soon turned into thoughts about the possibility of a site offering a range of leisure activities and an even more diverse population of wildlife. >>

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- HISTORY -

However, this was at a time when Rutland itself was to disappear, being absorbed into Leicestershire, and there was a feeling that the very name of England’s smallest county would be lost forever. Consequently, a second campaign was launched by Rutland High School sixth former Jane Merritt, who established a petition for the body of water to be known not as Empingham Reservoir, but as Rutland Water. This campaign, unlike the one to stop the construction, was successful and so Rutland Water was born.

With the help of their researcher Tim Coxall and social media, Tony and Ben have been able to trace Jane and interview her about her experience of setting up and running the renaming campaign – some 40 years after the event. She has also supplied some documents to be digitised by the project.

Above: Parkers Cottage was one of the properties on what is now the Hambleton peninsula to be demolished. Main: Normanton Church was relocated and restored.

>> “Other stories about the reservoir’s construction have appeared. For example, Empingham found itself under siege from a plague of flies as the soil was disturbed; and the whole area was badly affected by the dust and noise for several years.” “Eventually, to say thank you for putting up with this, the engineers decided on two actions: they threw a party for the villagers in the Empingham Audit Hall, which by all accounts was a quite a serious night to remember; and they also took some of their digging and scraping machinery up the very narrow lane toward Exton and the cricket club, where they made the cricket pitch level for the first time in the club’s history.”

Over time, the inevitability of the reservoir’s construction overcame objections and local people became resigned to the arrival of this huge body of water. There remained however one sticking point. The Act of Parliament and all the documents referred to Empingham Reservoir.

Interestingly, Jane’s involvement in this campaign led to a lifelong interest in local politics and in 2016 she became the Mayor of Winchester!

Rutland Water began filling in 1976 and when the water was finally up to its new level, the full scope and expertise of Dame Sylvia Crow’s landscaping became clear. And this is even more true today when, unlike many reservoirs, Rutland Water looks very much like a natural lake. As Christmas approaches, the project team is now occupied by a mountain of collating, digitising, storyboarding and editing their 60-minute documentary ready for a launch at Easter 2019 when a series of exhibitions will take place and the bulk of the material placed online.

The project team already has a mass of material for their archive, but they are still interested in stories, memories or personal documents which can be shared with future generations of the Rutland community. So, get in touch if you have something to share and contribute to a project that will be a personal, comprehensive and media-rich way to tell the story of the landmark that not only put Rutland on the map but redrew that map too! n

n Tony and Ben’s archive of material on the construction of Rutland Water will be revealed in spring 2019. If you’ve any images or stories to contribute, contact the historians at www.rutlandcommunityventures.uk. 49

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On... STAMFORD

SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER

OAKHAM

OPERA GALA

MONDAY 3RD DECEMBER

NSPCC CHRISTMAS CONCERT, OAKHAM

St Mary’s Church is celebrating the 10th Anniversary of its Opera Gala with one of its favourites, Mezzo Adriana Festeu who has performed each year. Join in the celebration of opera in St Mary’s Church and enjoy arias, duets and ensembles from the operas of Mozart, Rossini, Puccini, Verdi and others. Early booking is recommended for this popular event!

Tickets are selling out fast for this unmissable magical Christmas concert that now marks the beginning of the festive season in Rutland. A true evening of Christmas delights, guaranteed to bring laughter and festive fervour. The NSPCC Celebrity Christmas Carol Concert, sponsored by Don Paddy’s will this year take place on Monday December 3rd at All Saints’ Church in Oakham. Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and the sound of the Foresters Brass Band, plus a sparkling mix of carols and readings.

n St Mary’s Church, Stamford, 7.30pm, £16/adults, 01780 763203 or see stamfordartscentre.com. OAKHAM

SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER - MONDAY 31ST DECEMBER

RUTLAND FARM PARK

n Oakham All Saints Church, tickets £15/adult, James Sellicks, Oakham 01572 724437; Don Paddy’s, Uppingham 01572 822255 and from Margaret Wheeler 01572 813626.

The Sixteen in Uppingham

FRESH INSIGHTS INTO BAROQUE AND EARLY CLASSICAL AT A FESTIVE CONCERT BY RENOWNED CHOIR THE SIXTEEN...

UPPINGHAM

SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS IN UPPINGHAM

Following a sell-out performance in 2016, Uppingham Theatre and Uppingham School are delighted to announce the return of The Sixteen, under esteemed founder and conductor Harry Christophers, who will perform festive works by composers including Warlock, Howells, Byrd, Palestrina and Walton. The Sixteen is recognised as one of the world’s greatest ensembles. Comprising both choir and period-instrument orchestra this performance takes place at Uppingham School Chapel. n Uppingham Theatre, tickets £10-£25, call 01572 820820.

Festive fun with the animals over Christmas and New Year. Christmas celebrations start with Late night Friday 30th and Saturday 1st December opening until 7pm. Traditionally run family farm park. Outdoor and indoor play areas, soft play area for the younger children Daphne’s tea room with Christmas afternoon teas. Details on Facebook or at www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk. COLD OVERTON

SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER - MONDAY 31ST DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS AT GATES GARDEN CENTRE

14,000sq ft of Christmas decorations, Santa’s grotto and a range of thoughtful gifts for loved ones. A visit to Gates Garden Centre is a must this season!

n Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, Oakham LE15 7QB. 01664 454309.

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

OAKHAM

THURSDAY 6TH SUNDAY 9TH DEC

Temporary exhibition at Rutland County Museum. This exhibition examines how this was commemorated and celebrated nationally and in Rutland. It looks at the local memorials and buildings erected following the armistice and what life was like for returning servicemen.

Burghley Food Markets are fine food markets with a difference! With 30 local suppliers at the stately home’s biggest ever four-day food event, this is a festive celebration of local produce.

REMEMBRANCE 100

LEICESTER

THURSDAY 6TH DECEMBER - SUNDAY 13TH JANUARY 2019

WHITE CHRISTMAS AT THE CURVE THEATRE The Curve Theatre and Jamie Wilson present Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Based on the 1954 American musical film starring Bing Crosby, White Christmas follows ex-army friends Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they team up with two

sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes and put on a show to save their former general’s remote Vermont ski lodge when it falls on hard times. This Made at Curve musical features a dazzling, instantly recognisable score including Blue Skies, Sisters, How Deep Is The Ocean and arguably the most famous Christmas song of them all, White Christmas.

n Tickets £10-£45, 0116 2423595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

Christmas at Rockingham TRANSPORTED BACK IN TIME, ENJOY A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS THIS MONTH WITH THE SAUNDERS WATSON FAMILY AT ROCKINGHAM CASTLE...

STAMFORD

SATURDAY 1ST DEC 12TH JANUARY 2019

n Rutland County Museum, 01572 758440, or see rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk. OAKHAM

SATURDAY 22ND DECEMBER 2018

CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE

Traditional festive cheer returns to Oakham Castle. Join organisers for a Dickensian inspired Christmas weekend of fun and games, crafts and entertainment n www.oakhamcastle.org.

ROCKINGHAM

MONDAY 19TH – FRIDAY 23RD NOVEMBER

A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT ROCKINGHAM CASTLE It’s Christmas Eve 1849 and excitement ripples through the Castle. The trees are decorated, the silver is shining in the Great Hall, the kitchen is smelling delicious and the gifts are nestled beneath candlelit boughs. The family will be celebrating and their servants are stealing a moment to take you around the Castle in all its festive glory. Will you meet the butler at the door or a footman

BURGHLEY HOUSE FINE FOOD MARKET

With handmade cheeses, artisan breads, organic vegetables, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats, there’s something for everyone’s tastebuds. From mulled wine to Christmas puddings, this is a great chance to stock your larder ready for the festive season, and to combine a shopping trip with a walk around the grounds. The estate’s Orangery will also be open to serve food too, so you can enjoy a whole day out. n Courtyard, from 9-4pm. Call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

lighting candles for dinner? Will the housekeeper be sewing last minute gifts in the Panel Room or perhaps the governess will be tidying away toys in the Long Gallery? Visit Rockingham and experience the magic of Christmas in this unique setting sure to get all the family in the mood for festive fun. The gates open daily ready for the first tour of the Castle at 11am. Tours run every 15 minutes throughout the day with the last tour at 7.30pm.

n Adults £12.00, Children (four-16) £7.50, 01536 770240, or see www.rockinghamcastle.com. 51

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Join us for a fun day on the farm... CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS START WITH LATE NIGHT FRIDAY 30TH & SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER. OPEN UNTIL 7.00PM, MORE DETAILS ON FACEBOOK OR OUR WEBSITE. OPEN: Tues - Sun 10.00 - 4.00 FREE PARKIN G

Set in 19 acres of farm land within the town boundary of Oakham. Traditionally run family farm specialising in conserving rare breeds. Purchase food to feed the goats, sheep and the alpacas. Inside soft play for the younger children and outside play area. Daphne's tea room for light meals cakes, drinks ice creams and our special Christmas afternoon teas (booking required).

CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY AND NEW YEARS DAY Admission under 3 Free, 3-12 years £5.00, 13+ £6.00, Family ticket £18

RUTLAND FARM PARK Uppingham Rd, Oakham LE15 6JD 01572 722122 • enquiries@rutlandfarmpark.co.uk www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

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Bespoke Christmas Decoration Hire Service Commercial or Domestic Commissions Trees from 3ft-40ft, decorated trees plus wreaths, garlands & displays, all supplied, decorated and installed in situ

DECORATIVE EVENTS Christmas, Wedding & Event Decoration

01406 701912 â&#x20AC;˘ 07484 225360 www.decorativeevents.org

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GifChristm t G as uid e

All Wrapped Up T â&#x20AC;&#x2122;was the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse, and under the tree there was a wealth of thoughtful gifts from the best local suppliers... Compiled by: Rob Davis.

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- CHRISTMAS GIFTS -

Dogs with Jobs book, £7.99. Marmalade Pacific Orchid and Sea Salt luxury glass candle £19.99. Mug Bunny & Seed by Sophie Allport £11. Reed Diffuser Stoneglow Juniper Berry & Cedar £19.99. Morris & Co hand care trio £16. Bowtique ribbed turn-up hat £29.99. Onyx Art stag cufflinks £11.99. The Best of QI family board game, 12-adult £24.95. Cluse watch, £79.99. Down To Earth book by Monty Don £16.99. Silk Tie by

Tresanti £24.99. Neom body oil, pillow mist and hand balm £20. Stoneglow Cracker scented candles with eucalyptus and Lime £17.99. Hot Water Bottle with Airedale terrier £17.99. Warmies long hot water bottle shown in foreground £19.95. Bag in a Bag by Red Cuckoo, light blue £39.99. Compact Handbag navy £39.99. Morris & Co mini hand cream trio £9. Necklace Equilibrium Sparkle £23.99.

Stoneglow candle, Juniper Berry and Cedar £19.99. Stag’s Head on square base £99.99. Bath House men’s cedar and lime set £34.99. Tea Towel and other kitchen linens with festive motifs £8. Blue Purse with sparkles £14.99. Scarf in blue and pink £5. All of our featured products are available from Gates Garden Centre, Cold Overton, Oakham LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

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- CHRISTMAS GIFTS -

What a gift! Time to yourself! Spa Day half/full day, from £105 at The Grange Spa, Pointon 01778 440511, www.thegrangespa.co.uk. n

Learn to Fly: Gift Vouchers... For the person who has everything, gift an experience like flying lessons with Helisphere, from £99; 07860 268462. n

Fresh Local Turkeys... Mouthwatering! The centre of your Christmas table is this Hambleton Farm Foods bronze free range Turkey, proves mouth-watering. Grown locally, £12.65/kg, 01572 723800. n

Ted Baker Watch Kate two tone mesh watch £155, RubiRox, Stamford 01780 755996, www.rubirox.co.uk. Leaping Hare sculpture from Gates Garden Centre, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. Rocking Horse for tots, John Deere branding. Sharmans, College Farm, Grantham, sharmans-agri.co.uk. Twig Bracelet in 24ct gold with three Swarovski crystals £258 Mr & Mrs Clark’s St Martins, Stamford. Stoneglow Candle from Oldrids, £25, Downtown, Gonerby Jn, 01476 590239, www.oldrids.co.uk. Python Snakeskin bracelets made in Florence, £85/ea, Mr & Mrs Clark’s St Martins, Stamford. Barbour Scarf in grey, 100% lambswool, Downtown, Gonerby Jn, Grantham www.oldrids.co.uk. Rowan Ruby Wrist warmers knitting kit and mug £18.50, Ewe Wool Shop, Stamford, 01780 763838. Bolin Webb X1 Nero Black razor and razor travel case. Exclusive for Pride readers, use coupon code ‘GGPRIDE’ online and receive two additional Gillette Fusion blades with your order. Available at Cavells & online at bolinwebb.com £95. n

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FOOD & DRINK

Barnsdale

LODGE

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year are assured by a visit to one of the area’s most well-regarded dining rooms. Barnsdale Lodge has always been a paragon of quality and with winter menus offering game from adjacent country estates, seasonal dining at the hotel has never been more rewarding... Words & Images: Rob Davis.

The working week for Santa’s elves may prove more than brisk of pace in December, but their workload is nothing compared to that of those labouring in the hospitality industry at this time of year.

Whilst others are pulling crackers and indulging in festive celebrations chefs like David Bukowicki, the rest of his brigade and all of the front of house staff at Barnsdale Lodge are working like a well-oiled machine to ensure not only that the hotel’s prolific number of diners are satisfied, but that the food is of an exceptional standard too.

We love Barnsdale Lodge. Always have and always will. Why? Because it’s an everyman venue, with ladies enjoying morning coffee together alongside gentlemen walking the dog in the surrounding countryside and businesspeople holding very important meetings, discussing very important things.

Both locals and those from outside the area alike use Barnsdale Lodge because it’s so

“WE LOVE BARNSDALE LODGE. ALWAYS HAVE AND ALWAYS WILL. WHY? REALLY BECAUSE IT’S AN EVERYMAN VENUE...”

meet the CHEF DAVID BUKOWICKI

friendly, warm and welcoming; because everything from a simple coffee or light lunch to a full à la carte meal is well executed; because the service is so friendly and unfussy and because the place offers great consistency in its service and dining too. Overseeing operations is one ‘Mr Rutland,’ Ed Burrows. In post for a couple of years now General Manager Warren Browning looks after day-to-day operations and Head Chef David looks after his brigade.

One of the most impressive aspects of Barnsdale Lodge, though, and perhaps a key reason why the place functions so well as a dining room, never mind its remit as a 46 bedroom hotel, wedding venue and so on is the brigade’s insistance on using local only ingredients. In the winter, that’s especially manifest with a game-biased menu. >>

Food Experience: “I’ve worked in the Square in London (two Michelin stars), a restaurant in Devonshire (one star) and one in Leeds (one star).” Food Heaven: “Seafood and fresh fish is my food heaven. I used to work in Spain so I love tapas!” Food Hell: “It would have to be something like a very bad carvery; piles of food made without love.” n

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>> Game is shot on the adjacent Exton estate, at Easton, or on nearby farms. The hotel’s own flock of hens and ducks provide its eggs.

There’s also a productive kitchen garden, providing vegetables and herbs, whilst trout comes from, where else, but that estimable pond slap bang in the middle of Rutland. And of course, bread, desserts, sauces, petit fours and all of the other elements of your meal are made in house. Even the hotel’s vinaigrette is made by David’s uncle.

OPEN FOR FOOD Festive Afternoon Tea: Everyday from 2.30pm until 4.30pm. Lunch: Mon – Saturday 12pm – 2.30pm. Sunday Lunch: 12pm – 2pm. Dinner: 6.30pm – 9pm. NB: Open for drinks from 11am - 11pm.

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on the MENU FROM THE À LA CARTE DINNER MENU AT BARNSDALE LODGE Starters

Seared king scallops with Yorkshire black pudding bon bon and slow cooked belly pork £10.95. Carpaccio of Exton Estate venison with juniper crust, poached blackberry & ‘Ron’s blackberry vinegar £8.95. Main Courses

Gressingham duck breast with duck leg epigrams with poached cherries, cavolo nero and Kirsch £18.95.

Diners can choose to eat in the Vettrianolined dining room, the light and more contemporary orangery, or for family celebrations over Christmas and new year without the hassle, one of several private dining rooms for parties of up to 12, 16, 24 or 200 with no washing up guaranteed.

The dedicated lunch menu provides a range of classics, like gourmet fish & chips, pies and steak, as well as hot or cold sandwiches and à la carte winter dishes, providing everything from a quick bite to a leisurely lunch. A range of afternoon teas are available too, as well as a festive option and a Gentleman’s afternoon tea option with a generous helping of steak and a pint of ale.

Evening dining dazzles, with eight starters, and 10 main course options. There are six dessert options and if you’re lighter of appetite but still tempted, there’s a nice Café Gourmand options of homemade minidesserts with after dinner coffee. There’s even a little farm shop at reception where you can take a little bit of Rutland away with you to enjoy at home.

The festive season sees a wealth of Christmas lunches, party nghts, the hotel’s Christmas Ball on 15th December and a black tie ball on New Year’s Eve too. In 2019 there will also be Barnsdale Lodge’s Burn’s Night supper, perhaps the most popular event of its type in the county. Quite aside from these events though, a visit to the hotel at any time during the festive season is well worth it.

Not only will you find very good food and drink, there’s also the opportunity to find respite from festive preparations, from dark nights and from those nippy temperatures.

Established in 1989, next month will see the hotel enter its 30th birthday year. Barnsdale Lodge has always been a winter warmer, but with a brilliant team working hard to not only maintain their own standards, but to surpass them too, mean our recommendation to revisit the hotel now and in its anniversary year. Enjoy its effortless professionalism and warmth... values that are set to remain stronger and more apparent than ever as we enter an important year for the hotel. n

Slow cooked beef cheeks with Colston Bassett mash potato, butternut squash purée and Romanesco broccoli £17.95.

Pan fried fillet of sea bass with smoked eel, surf clams and sea beet £18.95. Dessert

Dark chocolate espresso cake with minted chocolate ice cream and freeze dried raspberries £8.25. Gooseberry fool with elderflower meringue and lemon gel £7.95.

Blackberry panna cotta with damson jam, poached figs and honeycomb £7.25. NB: Featured dishes are subject to change. n Barnsdale Lodge Hotel is based at The Avenue, Exton, Oakham Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk. 65

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Christmas & New Year 2019 At the Marquess we love to celebrate the Christmas season in style – join us for outstanding food and drink in beautifully festive surroundings… CHRISTMAS MENU Two Courses - £18.50 Three Courses - £23.50

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS LUNCH

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER & DANCE

£15.95

£75.50 per person inc canapés, ﬁve course menu and live music

Turkey and all the trimmings with Christmas pudding & brandy sauce

Call us on 01572 822477 for further information and to book. For full details of Christmas menus and opening hours over the festive period please visit the website.

52 Main Street, Lyddington, Rutland, LE15 9LT Call for bookings: 01572 822 477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week | 17 Modern Bedrooms | Four AA Star Rated

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10 YEARS OF HAMBLETON BAKERY

THE BEST THING SINCE

SLICED BREAD

Happy Anniversary to Hambleton Bakery and to Julian Carter, who created the business with Tim Hart a decade ago. Neither of the two founders believed the bakery would become as successful, or grow quite so large... For ten years now, Julian Carter has been getting up pretty early. But his early mornings and bleary eyes have been justly rewarded as the business that he and Tim Hart founded ten years ago reaches a big milestone. Neither Julian nor Tim realised that their artisan bakery in the Rutland countryside would grow to quite the scale it has reached, but in hindsight, they should have predicted a huge degree of success. After all, Julian’s sourdough loaf is the best thing since... well... “I’ve not invented anything,” says Julian modestly. “And you can preach all you want but all I’ve done is go back to the time honoured methods of producing bread.”

Time does indeed honour the bakery’s products, for whilst supermarket bread goes from raw ingredients to a baked loaf in less than an hour, three slow fermentations three opportunities for the bread to rest and prove - ensure that the production of each loaf spans two days; with the creation of dough on one day, and the loaves from that batch baked the following day. This slow fermentation process means it’s not necessary to artificially speed up the

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

process of baking bread with huge amounts of yeast, and therefore the bread is more easily digestible, especially for those who are otherwise intolerant of gluten.

Julian is a 10th generation baker and moved around because of his career in the RAF where he was posted to Cottesmore in the mid-1980s. He also spent three years working for Prime Minister John Major at Chequers and Downing Street before settling with wife Tracey and taking a job at Hambleton Hall from 1996-2008. “I worked my way around all of the different sections of the kitchen at Hambleton Hall working under Aaron and I loved every minute of it.”

10 YEARS ON, WE ESTIMATE THAT JULIAN AND THE TEAM WILL BAKE MORE THAN 32,000 MINCE PIES THIS CHRISTMAS! Opposite: Julian and the team produce 250,000 loaves of bread each year, and this month all hands will be to the pump - or rather the mixers - baking for Christmas!

“But after a number of years I felt the urge to continue the family’s tradition of baking and to join my brother to set up an artisan bakery back in the North West near to Liverpool where I grew up.”

“I handed in my notice and explained to Tim my reasoning, but he suggested I remained in Rutland and set up a bakery here instead.” The two found a former power station that was used until the 1960s and envisaged a business that would serve restaurants in the wholesale market. The business began life with three staff and five customers.

It now has 98 staff; three shifts of production, working 364 days a year; seven vans; six shops and more than 150 wholesale customers alone. We conservatively estimate that Julian and the team bake over 400,000 loaves of bread each year. >>

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>> Of course, things will be even busier this month as the team prepares for Christmas. Typically, 70% of the bakery’s workload is producing bread, whilst the remaining 30% of its workload is producing its cakes and savouries.

“In December in addition to their normal workload, the team will set about creating about 32,000 mince pies and 500 Christmas puddings as well as hand-finishing about 18,000 products a week.”

So specialised is the work and so high are the standards that there’s no taking on casual labour so the team is digging in for a heavy month. “Christmas doesn’t start for me until 1st December,” says Julian. “I refuse to bring it any further forward, but when it does begin in earnest it can be a logistical nightmare.”

“We have to make sure we have everything from the ingredients we need, to the vans to deliver our products. In a normal month there’s a wood-fired oven for the bread, two tall deck ovens for the bakery’s other products plus two staff members mixing, two shaping and three packing.” “At Christmas it’s even busier, but with all of the logistics in place it’s simply a case of getting on. The only real rule is that Christmas music is banned from the bakery right up until the week before Christmas!”

“Looking back it’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years. Tim has been a brilliant partner, and some think he’s just the financial backing but in fact he really knows his stuff, he really contributes ideas and he’s a pleasure to work with. I’m lucky, we make a really great team.”

“The best thing has been creating a real community out of a business. You can’t go to a university and take a degree in breadmaking, so without artisan bakers passing on the skills, they’re at risk. We’re passing on skills that risk being forgotten amid industrialised production. Despite the volume of bread that we produce we only ever use the four necessary ingredients to make bread.” 70

“Looking back it’s hard to believe it has been 10 years. Tim has been a brilliant partner. He really knows his stuff, and he’s a pleasure to work with!”

Above: The team celebrated 10 years with an event last month at the bakery, a former power station in Exton.

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“The only other thing we add is perhaps the important element of all; time. We have been keen to showcase excellent local ingredients wherever we can, for example we buy great flour from windmills at Whissendine and Boston, Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and eggs from a fine free range flock at Great Dalby.” “We’re really proud that we’ve involved the whole community, and that we’ve grown this business without compromising quality.”

“It’s so rewarding that we all get to stand back at the end of a shift and just gaze out at what we’ve created. It’s tangible, rewarding and there’s a real sense of achievement.” “If there’s just one frustration that we all share it’s the fact that we’re always running out of space. We’ve extended the building several times already but still we’re always on top of each other once the products have been created and they’re waiting to go out.” “But the ovens are never empty and the public love our bread, so I’m really happy that we can act as ambassadors for traditional bread, made with time and with care!” n Where to Buy: Hambleton Bakery has shops in Exton, Oakham, Stamford, Market Harborough, Oundle and West Bridgeford; see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.

THE REAL BREAD CAMPAIGN: What’s it all about? Four ingredients... five if you count time! Real Bread has nothing to hide. It is made with simple ingredients - only flour, water, yeast and salt. It’s made without any artificial additives. Amongst the additives not used in Real Bread making are: baking powder and other chemical leavening; ascorbic acid; xanthan gum; any so-called ‘processing aids’ or other additives in some flour or mixes. Better bred bread instead relies on Longer fermentation, preferably in the presence of sourdough bacteria, low salt levels, wholemeal or other less-refined flours.

Bread is a fundamental part of our diet: 99% of UK households buy it and 74% of us eat it at least once a day. Unfortunately, most of the 12 million loaves produced in Britain each day are made using methods that arguably have little regard for nutritional qualities or the environmental and social impact of production and distribution. A key aim of the Real Bread Campaign is to share with people the true values of locally-produced bread. Small, local, independent bakeries were once the heart of every neighbourhood. Today around 80% of UK loaves are produced by the factories. Slowly though, independent bakeries are re-emerging, bringing traditional skills to members of local communities, providing a real boost to local economies and places of social interaction for local people. Real Bread bakers put so much time, love and care into their baking (rather than artificial additives), they do tend to make very fine loaves indeed! n For more information on real bread, see www.sustainweb.org/realbread.

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CAKES&BAKES CHRISTMAS

Local baker Katie Jones owner of Cocoa & Cane has baked some delicious festive treats for you try at home this season...

Words & Images: Tilly Wilkinson.

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One for the CHILDREN

If you’re looking to bake as a family, Katie suggests these easy-to-make and super tasty Christmas cookies that the kids can have a go at decorating...

COOKIES Christmas sugar cookies & gingerbread cookies

Preparation time: 80 minutes. Cooking time: 10-12 minutes. Makes 12. Ingredients: (for sugar cookies) 100g caster sugar (or if you’re sugar reducing for your children, Katie suggests coconut sugar; completely natural and unrefined) • 200g plain flour • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • one large egg • 90g room temperature butter • (for gingerbread cookies) 300g plain flour • 125g butter • 100g muscovado sugar • three tbsps golden syrup • two tsps ground ginger • one tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Preheat the oven to 180ºc if you’re making either the sugar cookies or the gingerbread. For the sugar cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla. In a separate bowl add all the dry ingredients, then add this to the butter and sugar mixture, combining gently. You should be able to mould this into dough now. Roll the dough out onto greaseproof paper to roughly five millimetres depth and pop in the fridge to set for between half an hour to an hour. You can now cut out your cookie shapes and lay into greaseproof paper on a tray and bake for between 10 to 12 minutes, or until just golden brown. These are great iced, which makes a lovely Christmassy activity to do with the little ones.

If you would prefer to make the gingerbread cookies, start by melting the butter, sugar and golden syrup in a pan. Add the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly then roll out to roughly five millimetres depth. These can then be cut and laid onto a tray covered with greaseproof. Bake for roughly eight to 10 minutes or until golden brown, a little darker than the sugar cookies. These are lovely little treats to have in the house at Christmas, but Katie has a gingerbread treat if you’re looking for more of a challenge later in this feature. Use any kind of cookie cutters you like and decorate how you like! Katie used icing sugar and edible silver balls. Tie three or four of your cookies with red ribbon and give them as gifts this Christmas.

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One for the Adults

These truffles are a little messy to make but trust us, it’s worth it! Certainly more adult-only, they’re rather boozy (it is Christmas!)...

TRUFFLES Champagne Belgian Truffles & Very Boozy Gin Truffles Preparation time: Four to Five Hours. Makes 12. Ingredients: 300g quality dark chocolate (Katie uses 70% Callebaut Belgian chocolate because it’s rich without being too bitter) • 300ml double cream • 50g butter • pinch of salt • Champagne or gin or a tipple of your choice • 800g dark chocolate to coat • 100g butter • one tbsp golden syrup

First of all, melt half the chocolate, half the butter and salt over a Bain-Marie. Once melted remove from the heat and add the double cream. Once mixed add your tipple of choice.

For the Champagne truffles (with the gold leaf on top), Katie added two to three large sploshes, and for the gin truffles, she added one large splosh because it’s stronger. But it is Christmas, so the more the merrier! Put into the fridge for a few hours to set. Remove from the fridge and allow to come up to room temperature for roughly half an hour to an hour, then start spooning out portions and rolling them into the truffles in your hands. There’s no way to avoid it, it’s a gloriously messy task! Once you’ve rolled them all into truffles, pop them onto greaseproof paper on a tray or a plate.

Now pop them in the fridge or the freezer again to set whilst you melt the chocolate to coat them.

Melt 300-400g of dark chocolate, 50g butter and tablespoon of golden syrup over a Bain-Marie. The golden syrup will help to keep the chocolate glossy without having to temper the chocolate, which is quite a lengthy process and requires a thermometer.

After the truffles are nice and cold, use a couple of teaspoons to dip and cover each truffle, and replace back onto the greaseproof paper. Once all truffles are coated pop them back into the fridge to set. They’re ready to eat whenever you are... These are ideal for when you have guests over or if you want to treat yourself after a long day of Christmas shopping!

Above: Very boozy and delicious Champagne and gin Belgian chocolate truffles for adults only!

Left: Local cake lady Katie Jones of ‘Cocoa & Cane.’ For more information, visit www.cocoaandcane.com.

Alternatively, call Katie on 07961 612610 to book your next batch of tasty tray bakes and cakes today!

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GINGERBREAD CAKE a twist on a gingerbread house and the perfect gift

Prep time: 5 mins. Cooking Time: 20-30 mins. Ingredients: 170g butter • 170g caster sugar • 140g self-raising flour • three eggs • 3tsp milk • 3oz drinking chocolate • 1oz cocoa powder • 400g butter • 200g icing sugar

Whisk all ingredients until pale and fluffy, then divide into two 10cm, lined and greased cake tins and bake for between 20 to 30 minutes, or until a knife comes out clean. Leave to cool completely. Whisk the butter and icing sugar until white and fluffy. Add more sugar if necessary. Take your round cutter and carve out your individual slices. The example Katie has made is three layers deep. She usually pops the sponges into the freezer next for an hour or so before decorating for ease. Put a blob of buttercream on the cake board or plate and add the first sponge, then your first layer of buttercream. Repeat until you have all your layers, and then cover the cake with buttercream and smooth with a palette knife. Katie decorated it with little gingerbread cookies for a festive finish!

FLORENTINES thoroughly festive with glacé cherries and flaked almonds

Prep Time: 15 mins. Cooking Time: 15 mins. Ingredients: 50g butter • 50g caster sugar • 50g golden syrup • 50g plain flour • 25g glacé cherries, chopped • 50g flaked almonds • 200g dark chocolate • 25g butter • 1 tbsp golden syrup

Melt the butter, sugar and golden syrup in a pan on a gentle heat. Stir in all the other ingredients. Spoon onto greaseproof lined trays. you only need teaspoon sized portions and leave generous gaps between each Florentine because they will flatten and spread as they heat. Bake for eight to ten minutes. They will need removing from the greaseproof while still warm with a palette knife or fish slice; if they cool too much they will stick to the paper. If you need to, you can pop them back into the oven to warm up a bit to remove. Refrigerate until set. Melt the chocolate, butter and golden syrup on a Bain-Marie, turn the Florentines upside down and add the chocolate, then pop back into the fridge to set.

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A Steaming Mug of Mulled Wine

Season’s Cheer

Dom Pérignon 2009

Good Housekeeping announced that Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Mulled Wine was the very best that shops had to offer. There really is no finer treat on a cold winter’s day than a fragrant steaming cup of mulled wine so make sure you don’t miss out and stock up on this for those nights you need it.

Vintage Champagne £120/75cl/12.5%

This particular bottle is a rich, warming mulled wine with citrus fruit flavours and spicy notes. Silky smooth Tempranillo and fruity Merlot wines are carefully blended with flavours of orange peel, cinnamon, cloves and vanilla to create this festive winter warmer. n £6/75cl/11%

The Wine Cellar WE’RE DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS, BUT IF IT DOESN’T COME, WE’VE ALWAYS GOT RED. HERE WE’VE PICKED THE BEST WINES FROM OUR CELLARS, IDEAL FOR YOUR FESTIVE TABLE FROM A SALMON STARTER TO CHRISTMAS PUDDING VIA TURKEY...

1.Balance the richness of a salmon or fish based starter with a delicious Chablis. Try the 2015 Chablis, L’Homme Mort, Vieilles Vignes, 1er Cru, Le Domained’Henri from Berry Bros & Rudd. £32.50/75cl/13.0% 2. What is Christmas without Turkey? Match its weight with a full-bodied white or a medium-full red wine, but the lack of fat means the wine must not have too much tannin; this Fog Monster, Zinfandel is ideal. £49.50/75cl/13.5% 3. And so, to pudding...! You ought to match sweet with sweet so for Christmas Pudding (you’d be mad not to) we recommend this, Royal Tokaji Five Puttonyos 2013 Hungary. £21.60 / 50cl / 11.0%

This is a top cuvée from one of Champagne’s most revered and renowned historic houses. Each vintage is a perfectly balanced blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, aged for a minimum of seven years. 2009 was an excellent vintage that, while still youthful, is showing great elegance. Exemplary in style, depth and quality, this is simply heavenly. Dom Pérignon is the sort of champagne that never ceases to fail in high expectations. This vintage isn’t the on the high end in terms of price, but is perfect for that small gathering or celebration. This particular vintage is creamy, rich, with a lush smoke apple finish. Whether you’re toasting the chef, having a champagne breakfast or drinking to celebrate the season, Dom Pérignon’s 2009 vintage remains sublime! n

GETTING INTO A

Christmas Spirit

With a smooth, fresh taste which demands your attention, Coole Swan is a liqueur which can be easily recognised. This drink swirls evenly in the glass and finishes with long legs of cream as a clear demonstration of its quality. Fresh and natural: subtle and complex; fresh vanilla cream combines with creamy chocolate and refined top-notes of rich cocoa and delicate hints of soft whisky to give your tastebuds an experience they’ll never forget. Coole Swan is best served cold – straight from the fridge and lasts six months once open. n £22/16%

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

YOUR RURAL

PARADISE

The family home of Kay & Dylan Bogg is now on the market, with panoramic views, no neighbours for miles, tennis courts and a bar. The perfect home for festive entertaining...?

Cock Abingdon Farm is a unique modern architect-designed barn conversion offering stylish contemporary accommodation of 6,000 sq ft and almost 25 acres of space with uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic views, on the outskirts of Hallaton, one of the Welland Valley’s most desirable villages. Cock Abingdon Farm comprises three former barns ingeniously converted and interconnected by feature glass panelled corridors creating a cleverly conceived ‘F’ shape. The property is entered via glass doors with full-height glazing into a superbly light and spacious reception hall with a double height vaulted ceiling with exposed king post truss. This space offers a seating area with a contemporary log burner, dining area and intelligent lighting system. >> 83

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Underfloor heating runs throughout the ground floor accommodation. Glass panelled stairs rise to a dual aspect games room with far reaching views, cinema projector screen and even a bar area with built-in lighting and refrigeration. Off the reception hall is a cloakroom, utility room, access to the triple garage and stairs. On the first floor the master bedroom has a large ensuite and views across open countryside.

The open plan living dining kitchen with Marblewood flooring is a spacious and light room by virtue of two sets of hardwood sliding patio doors to two elevations giving Top: The house has its very own permanent bar fixture.

Above: One of the stunning bedrooms in the barn.

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access to the inner courtyard one side and decking area and garden with far reaching views to the other.

The Poggenpohl kitchen is centred around a large island with a range of appliances to include three Siemens ovens, a top-spec Miele dishwasher and coffee machine, two Miele fridge-freezers and a Siemens induction hob with extractor. There is a wall-mounted operational panel for the property’s internal and external intelligent lighting system.

A ‘comms room’ houses all domestic controls to include lighting, heating and media systems. The bedroom wing meanwhile contains three bedrooms, each with an ensuite and a study/smaller bedroom and a separate bathroom.

“It’s an amazing house in a fantastic location and I feel very lucky to have lived here!” says owner Kay Bogg. The property is approached via a long gravelled driveway which gives access to a triple garage with electric doors. There is a central courtyard with decked and patio entertaining areas and a sunken hot tub. Off the kitchen is a decked area and gardens taking advantage of the views.

The gardens and paddocks approach approximately 24.5 acres and includes a hard tennis court and a pond with wooden pontoon. Cock Abingdon has been a home to the Bogg family for the last 14 years or so. “We have owned it for 16 years, but lived in it for 14, the renovation took longer than expected,” says Kay.

“We had decided to move out of Stoneygate and into the countryside, I remember coming to look at the property once I’d managed to find it. My husband was in Prague but I called him and said ‘I can really imagine living here.’” Fast forward several months and Kay and Dylan were stuck in the familiar planning game as they’d decided to reapply with their own plans. >>

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>> “We found Palmer’s of Oakham, that’s who did all of the work,” says Kay. But as all building work tends to, it took longer than expected and so it wasn’t until two years later that the Bogg family could move in.

“We’re not at all farmers, we took down the agricultural buildings but kept the grain store. We did have horses at one stage but the land needs someone else to enjoy it now!” Kay and Dylan have two daughters, Billie and Frankie who are at an age where they’re driving and suddenly independent. “Now that the girls can do their own thing, Dylan and I have been spending a little more time in our home in Majorca,” says Kay. “We’re ready to move on and find something a little smaller now it’s just the two of us a lot of the time. We’d also like a new challenge, it’s been great getting the farm to how it looks now.”

“The main attractions of the house is how open it all is, it’s very modern and equipped for easy living. There’s also a cinema games room, a built-in bar, the tennis courts, a fabulous Sonos system.” “The kitchen is beautiful and also the entrance hall is double height so really lovely,” says Kay.

“We’re also a mile outside the village which is far enough if we want to do our own thing but close enough if we’re feeling sociable. A lot goes on in Hallaton and when the girls were younger we spent a lot of time there getting involved!” “I love the fact that we’re out of the way, you can’t help but smile when you drive through the gates. I have to say that we have brilliant neighbours, even though they are a mile away!” “When we come to buy another house, we’ll definitely be looking to stay in this general Main: The wonderfully stylish dining area in the converted barn. It’s all very open plan and spacious.

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area, we love it,” says Kay. The girls went to the local school in Hallaton which is very well-regarded. “There are two really good pubs in the village as well,” says Kay.

The remaining grain store has planning permission for conversion into a unique self-contained ancillary accommodation complete with kitchen, living area, bedroom, ensuite and dressing area.

The property also has planning permission granted for the installation of three additional windows in the bathroom and two bedrooms. It could make quite the location for weddings, the possibilities are endless, in fact, given the luxury of space! n

COCK ABINGDON FARM

HALLATON Location: Hallaton. Style: Modern Converted Barn Bedrooms: Five Bedrooms Receptions: Three Reception Rooms, currently living kitchen, cinema, reception hall. Other Features: Tennis courts, 24.5 acres pasture, triple garage, cinema, games room, Sonos system and four or the five bedroom are ensuites.

Estate Agent: James Sellicks, call 01858 410008, jamessellicks.com. Guide Price: £2,250,000.

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New Coventry Store Now Open! OPENING OFFERS IN BOTH STORES

TRINITY LANE, HINCKLEY, LE10 0BL Tel: 01455 616 095

RUGBY ROAD, BINLEY WOODS, CV3 2AW Tel: 02476 453 878

www.pauledwardsinteriors.co.uk Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00am 5.00pm Sunday 11.00am - 4.00pm FREE CAR PARK AT REAR

SUITES • CARPETS • CURTAINS • WALLPAPERS • BEDS • DINING FURNITURE TOP DESIGNERS:

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HOMES & INTERIORS

T’was the Night Before Christmas T’WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, AND ALL THROUGH THE HOUSE WAS IMPECCABLE STYLE FOR YOUR FESTIVE SEASON

1. Frosty-Coloured Pastels Create a cool look for your winter fireside with a predominantly monochrome colour scheme punctuated by pastel shades of blue or pink. Snow-frosted garlands over timber or stone mantels are commensurate with large feature fireplaces in period properties. Pair your festive scheme

with matching scatter cushions for your sofa too. MacKenzie-Childs garland £650; stockings £25; willow trees by hearth £12-£58; large deer ornament by fire £28; Persian rug £435; Amara baubles on tree £25/four; Christie Jaipur cushion £35; Grey Kylie at Home cushion £40. www.amara.com. >>

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2. Enchanted Sparkle... Debenhams has chosen Enchanted Sparkle as a halo colour scheme for Christmas 2018. Shown here is 6ft Snowy Imperial pine tree £80; willow tree skirt £30; John Rocha soft green vase £22; Julien Macdonald tealight holder, pair – £28; John Rocha floral white tall vase - £15; white metal tree £18; John Rocha twig candlestick £25; Bolsius pillar silver sequin wreath £18;

candles £4-£20; Dimple dark grey velvet footstool (bottom/left) £550. Decorations silver sequin star £8; white glitter stars £5/eight; pewter baubles £16/four; white sparkle baubles £10/six; diamante baubles £10/six; Feather baubles £5/four; teardrop glitter glass bauble £5; Icicles £12/12. From Debenhams, www.debenhams.com. >>

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3. Snow White Style From baubles to snow globes, just the smallest touches can make a home feel festive.

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4. Not a creature was stirring... And when you’ve had your cocoa and changed into your nightdress, don’t forget to hang your stocking before you retire for the night. Shown left is Sophie Allport’s Holly & Berry collection Christmas stocking £15; star tealight holders from £5; side plate £15/ea; paper napkins £4.25 from Sophie Allport’s Bourne & Stamford stores,

call 01778 560256 or see sophieallport.com. Snuggle under Marks & Spencer’s Pine printed bedding set from £29.50 to £39.50; Star of Wonder light-up cushion £19.50, see marksandspencer.com. Alternatively, there’s Debenhams’s Home Collection - White Nordic Nights bedding set, from £26 - £55, see www.debenhams.com n

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Recent customer installation

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"Overjoyed with the quality and redesign of the kitchen and how the project was overseen.”

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Our customers can’t recommend our services highly enough, offering our vision and knowledge that becomes seamlessly transformed into a practical working living space.

THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

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Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. Sat, 9am-3pm, closed all day Sunday

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HOMES & INTERIORS

KITCHEN We Reinvented Our Whole

One local coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s refresh of their kitchen led to a re-evaluation of the whole layout of their home. The confidence to embark upon a complete home renovation was at least in part inspired by discovering a company they could partner with successfully; Leicestershire Interior Design and Handmade Furniture specialists, Moir Wade...

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Reconfiguring an old home to suit modern living can be tricky. The owners of this Georgian period property approached Leicestershire’s Moir Wade Design to go through their options. The top priority was to create a new joined kitchen and living space to allow Claire and Paul to spend time together in the kitchen and still be able to keep an eye on their young children. To this end, a large glazed extension was decided upon to accommodate the kitchen, dining area as well as a soft seating area where evenings could be spent looking out at the beautiful mature gardens.

The bright and airy kitchen is hand painted with Farrow & Ball Purbeck and Wevet with bright quartz worktops. A brilliant white AGA, modern Siemens appliances and a distinctive twin island arrangement have created a new

heart for the home that will be a centre for family life for many years to come.

The project didn’t just stop with a new kitchen however. As part of the redesign, the family were also provided with a new walk in pantry complete with quartz worktops and an abundance of open shelving as well as a separate sizeable boot room to house laundry appliances and give the children somewhere to leave their clutter. As a final touch, the designers at Moir Wade converted a hallway niche into an attractive oak wine store turning what would have been a fairly anonymous wall into a rich and elegant feature within the home. As an added bonus, the extra space freed up in the former kitchen has now been transformed into a cinema room, in which the whole family will be able to enjoy a Christmas film or two this month! n

“The new, larger living kitchen creates a bright family space that really considers how the whole family live...”

Find Out More: Moir Wade are Bespoke Modern Interior Design and Handmade Furniture specialists. The firm is based in Syston, Leicester LE7 2JQ. Call 0116 269 5915 or see www.moirwade.co.uk.

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Interior Design Soft furnishings Re Upholstery Bespoke Furniture

Fabric Wallpaper Paint Lighting Furniture Carpet

www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk

17a and 27 Mill St Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA 01572 722 345

Colefax and Fowler Crucial Trading Charlotte Gaisford Christopher Farr Designers Guild Fermoie G P and J Baker Jacaranda Jane Churchill Kate Foreman Larsen

Nina Campbell Osborne and Little Pierre Frey Porta Romana Ralph Lauren Roger Oates Romo Sahco Thibaut Vanessa Arbuthnott Villa Nova Voyage William Yeoward Zoffany

Alternative Flooring Andrew Martin Anna French Arte

Linwood Manuel Canovas Mark Alexander Mulberry

Windsor

WONDER WINDSOR CHAIRS are a great enigma in the world of collecting. On one hand unmistakable from other forms of seating, but their unique design quirks from one area to the next makes them very individual pieces.

The term itself is slightly confusing. There is doubt the chairs originated in Windsor and gained their name because they were shipped there in great number, from the early Thames Valley makers to be sent onto London for sale.

They were produced in a great many areas from all corners of the country with some dating back to the 17th century; examples were even imported to America as far back as 1730. English Windsors were often made with ash and elm, yew is rarer and American examples can be made of several different woods including pine.

A cabriole legged Thames Valley chair differs greatly to say the comb topped examples found more in the West Country, Gothic chairs seldom appear and differ immensely to the quaint Lincolnshire style made by a great many names including Amos, Dolby, Camm and Hubbard.

A local chair will usually have plain back legs, a single ring moulding to the front legs and a full spindle back. The most obvious sign of a definite area however is a makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stamp, as found on the Hubbard example illustrated here. John Hubbard was a prolific maker. Mentioned in the 1841 census he is responsible for a great number of Windsors. This ash and elm example dates to the early 19th century.

This chair is textbook for an early 19th century Grantham piece. Its seat stamp makes it extremely desirable in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market; appealing to scholars, interior decorators and collectors. Although named chairs are rare other furniture is more so: named spinning wheels for example were made but have never been found and if any Pride readers should have one, they have a very rare object indeed! n With best wishes, Craig Bewick, MRICS. Auctioneer Golding Young & Mawer, Grantham.

Traditional chair types in a single county made in a catchment area of a few miles differ greatly, a chair from Caistor would look very different to a South Lincolnshire piece for example. Tens of thousands of chairs were made in the Lincolnshire and Cambridge areas, with Alford, Grantham and Louth being particularly prolific.

Find Out More: Craig Bewick is an antiques specialist with Golding, Young & Mawer: The Bourne Auction Rooms, Spalding Road, Bourne PE10 9LE, 01778 422686; The Grantham Auction Rooms, Old Wharf Road, Grantham NG31 7AA, 01476 565118; The Stamford Valuation Office, The George Mews, Station Road, Stamford PE9 2LB, 01780 751666 or The Lincoln Auction Rooms, Thos Mawer House Station Road, North Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 3QY, 01522 524984. Alternatively, see www.goldingyoung.com.

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Create a home youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud of, comfortable and attractive, with Eye4Design. The Spalding based business can provide everything from paint, wallpaper, fabrics and bespoke sofas & chairs to a full interior design service - curtains for individual windows, entire rooms or a complete redesign of your entire home... we help bring your ideas to life, rather just imparting ours!

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Seven festive wreaths for your door... WELCOME VISITORS INTO YOUR FESTIVE HOME WITH OUR CHOICE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DECORATIONS FOR YOUR DOOR 1. Silver and white luxury wreath 55cm £49.99. 2. Twig and pine cone wreath 40cm £29.99. 3. Star wreath small 40cm £7.99; large 60cm £14.99. 4. Red berry and cinnamon luxury wreath 55cm £49.99. 5. Whitewashed heart wreath 35cm £19.99. 6. Glitter and stars wreath 40cm £26.99. 7. Birch bark open heart wreath 33cm £9.99. NB: Wreaths have been photographed separately and are not shown to scale.

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- CHRISTMAS WREATHS -

All of our featured decorations are available from Gates Garden Centre at Cold Overton, Oakham LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

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l l l l

Making your garden the favourite room in your home. Affordable garden design and delivery. Small beds or courtyards, garden sections through to large gardens. Qualified experienced team focussing on you and your dream garden.

Call for a no obligation chat on 07545 007323 www.soospectorgardens.co.uk soo@soospectorgardens.co.uk

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ARTIST The Christmas Tree Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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Meet Sam Fox, the local Christmas tree artist who designs, installs and decorates festive trees for her clients... a veritable Christmas angel, we think!

To some it’s an enjoyable experience for the whole family. For others - like me - it’s the bane of the festive season. Sourcing the perfect tree, getting the decorations down from the loft, untangling the lights from the lead, then untangling the cat from the tinsel and my child from the rest of the decorations.

Imagine, then, if you could commission a bespoke tree, delivered to your door, with decorations, then trimmed up before being disassembled and taken away in the new year. Imagine no longer, as we introduce the festive angel intent on reminding you of the true joy of Christmas; having a really stunning tree that wipes the floor with whatever tacky abomination your friends and neighbours have put up. Don’t let anyone tell you it isn’t a competition. It is... very much so.

Sam Fox, then, is your competitive advantage in the battle to have the best tree. She’s a professional Christmas designer whose client list is so prestigious that we can’t even name some of them. But she told us and really, it made us go ‘Oooh!’

When you and I are snoozing in a comfy chair, slipping in and out of an After Eight coma in that festive no man’s land between Christmas and New Year, Sam has already started planning her clients’ trees for next year. Like local retailers of festive decoration retailers, Sam attends spring trade fairs to investigate the coming year’s festive trends, then sets about creating colour schemes, presenting mood boards, and costing the whole thing out for her 50-ish corporate clients and an exclusive list of clients who commission Sam for their own homes.

We say exclusive - Sam’s work is of course entirely bespoke to each client - but in fact the designer typically charges between £250 and £500 for a 7ft Christmas tree sourced, supplied, decorated and then taken down for her clients after the festive season.

Given that real trees are £80-ish and that the ubiquitous purchase of new lights can cost the same once you’ve ascertained that last year’s purchase has gone awry, that’s not much of a premium for someone to create a new look each year, with a professional looking tree and to have the whole lot taken away afterwards.

Some of Sam’s clients even have two trees in their home, one they purchase and decorate themselves - one the kids can ruin, as it were - then a ‘best’ tree they commission from Sam for their drawing room. Whilst a six or seven-foot tree is average for domestic clients, things tend to scale up for the corporate market. >>

Top: A domestic commission of a 7ft Christmas tree, decorated and set up in your home typically costs from £250-£500. Sam also provides wreathes, table decorations and garlands for fireplaces.

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“That’s a surmountable issue,” says Sam, revealing that she uses - gasp! - artisan scents to emulate the perfume of a real tree.

Sam reckons she has created over 1,000 trees in her career, and yet the artist still has ﬂair to spare if you’d like her to design and decorate a bespoke Christmas tree for you...

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>> One of Sam’s clients for example is London’s St Pancras Station. The decorations there? All Sam. Well, with some help from Bruno, her partner and second in command. The station has 33,500,000 commuters each year, and its busiest time is rush hour. That’s why Sam and Bruno spend nine solid nights decorating the station, using scissor lifts, scaffolding and all sorts of other paraphernalia... not to mention no fewer than 14,000 baubles.

So, what’s the secret of creating a really great looking tree... apart from the obvious tactic of cheating by using a professional Christmas artist? Sam’s first tip is to use an artificial tree. To some that’s sacrilege, after all who doesn’t love the scent of a real tree?

“I always feel a bit guilty about discarding a real tree when the festive season is over, and when corporate clients request something large, like a 20ft tree, that guilt is especially palpable given that trees grow at just 1ft each year, after the first couple of feet, so that’s a 25-30 year legacy you’re destroying.”

“Aside from the ecological argument, artificial trees are manufactured to be symmetrical, they don’t shed needles and they’re the perfect shape. Aside from hugely expensive ‘manicured’ real trees - which are hand-trimmed every month or so throughout their growth to be trained into the perfect shape and carry a huge premium over conventional trees - an artificial tree is the only solution for a really evenly proportioned starting point. What’s more, artificial trees aren’t subject to leaning or moving as they dry out, which can cause decorations to slip or move about.

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In any case ribbon, she finds, provides more flexibility and somehow looks more polished. Having cut her teeth working for a couple of decades as a florist, Sam later joined a large garden centre, as their Christmas project manager and stylist. Two years ago, she left behind the city and moved to the area, retaining much of her client base (casinos; motor dealerships; corporate headquarters), but finding herself able to squeeze in both corporate and domestic clients down here.

Sam’s other secret is that she commissions many of the elements for her clients’ trees herself. Expensive decorations, she cautions, don’t automatically make a great tree, and her decorations aren’t necessarily sourced from designer names like Gisela Graham.

However, an investment in quality where it counts is often wise. The lights Sam uses, for example, have bulbs spaced 5cm apart, not the usual 10cm, for a fuller look and a more ‘lit’ appearance.

They also link together sequentially, so just one socket and one cable from the tree can power a more or less infinite number of lights without a humongous tangle. Also, on the subject of lights, one of Sam’s pet hates is the use of inappropriate coloured lights ice white lights with red and gold trees, or warm white lights with blue and silver tree schemes, for example. It’s like festive kryptonite to a professional tree artist.

Also, Sam doesn’t use tinsel. Why? She can’t say for sure, perhaps it’s personal preference, it’s just a bit dated, a bit ordinary...?

Sam never switches off from the festive season, and with five children and two grandchildren, still loves to make her own home as festive as possible each year.

Find Out More: Sam Fox is a professional Christmas Artist who designs, supplies, decorates and installs trees for her clients. Her company, Decorative Events, can be found at www.decorativeevents.org. Call 01406 701912 or 07484 225360.

Even though she reckons to have created over 1,000 trees in her career, the artist still has creativity to go and flair to spare. So, if you’re looking to create a festive tree, garlands, wreath and any other decorations for your home or business this year, we’ll happily endorse our saviour of the season, and implore you to spare yourself the hassle of creating your tree, enlisting Sam... your very own festive elf ! n 117

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WEDDINGS

A Christmas Wedding

Quirky local couple Hazel and Marc fell in love after a blind date, but a few years later, shared a very clear vision for a family celebration at their dream wedding location of Burghley House. Rather than a high summer bash, the two wanted to celebrate their love with a Christmas wedding! Photographers: The Two Photographers, 07970 615267, www.thetwophotographers.com.

It’s always refreshing to talk to the groom rather than the bride. We certainly don’t mean that in a negative way at all but it’s so lovely to hear things from a male perspective at times, especially when the couple is as charmingly quirky as Hazel and Marc.

THE WEDDING OF HAZEL & MARC

“We met after being introduced by mutual friends and sent off on a blind date together,” says Marc, who has a lovely knack for getting straight to the juicy part of a story when he’s being interviewed!

“When we moved here from London for work, we lived in Wothorpe to begin with, so we became really familiar with Burghley. We’re in Barnack now but still go there lots. Once we realised we could be really creative with Burghley as a venue, there wasn’t going to be anything that trumped it.”

It turns out that Hazel had made plans to minimise her time with Marc on that first date just in case he turned out to be a strange fellow... or perhaps not a strange fellow, depending on your relationship with the word strange.

“I’d bought a pre-engagement ring which apparently is not a thing,” he sighs, I laugh. “It was around Christmas time and I proposed with a green emerald ring I’d found in India when we were there together.” “After that we decided to grow our family first. Before we got married we’d had three

“We always had different opinions on how we wanted the wedding to be but we both agreed to throw a big party as we’d been saving and working hard for all those years!”

“Burghley House had always been a bit of a pipe dream but when we started looking into it and talking to the Wedding Manager Kara, it turned into a reality,” says Marc.

“I took some Pimm’s in cans and we sat under a tree in Green Park in London and drank them,” he laughs.

At this point in their lives, Marc was living in Chelsea and Hazel in Brighton but after that first date things took off and a year and a half later, Marc proposed. “I actually messed the proposal up a bit,” admits Marc.

beautiful children,” says Marc. “We waited until they were old enough to go to a wedding and then we started the planning!”

Despite building their family first, Marc and Hazel still kept the tradition of going for a weekend away with friends before the big day. “I went to Iceland with two of my best men and the head groomsman,” says Marc. Wedding Ceremony and Reception: Stamford PE9 3JY, 01780 752451 www.burghley.co.uk.

Photographers: The Two Photographers, 07970 615267, www.thetwophotographers.com. n

“We went to a place in the middle of nowhere. We saw the Northern Lights, rode some snowmobiles on a glacier, sat by a lake drinking... it was fantastic!”

You’ll see in the photos that Marc decided to match suits with his three respective important guys, “We also matched our gazelle trainers, just for something a little bit different,” laughs Marc. >> 121

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- WEDDINGS -

“A few highlights for me are the Morris Minor that Hazel chose as her wedding car and the gospel choir with which I surprised Hazel...!” >> “Burghley provided all of the food, it was fantastic as we’d decided to upgrade everything. We decided to choose the wine and pay the corkage, it meant I could get exactly what I wanted,” says Marc. “The photographers we chose were recommended by a friend of a friend and because there are two of them on the day, it means they can be everywhere.” At Burghley there are so many amazing places to get your photos taken, I particularly love the lightsabre photos in front of the TIE Fighter that was in the sculpture garden. We’re a bit esoteric and not very traditional so it was nice to get some unusual photos.”

“A few other highlights for me would have to be the Morris Minor that Hazel chose as her wedding car and the gospel choir I surprised Hazel with,” says Marc.

“I’d been slightly influenced by the film Love Actually and they sang during the ceremony and drinks reception. We also surprised everyone with some singing waiters.”

“They’re amazing and play along with the part as waiters for the majority of the evening, they pretend to be foreign and then out of nowhere they sing opera, it was beautiful!”

“I also recommend that people go to somewhere like Burghley for their wedding if they’re getting married in December like we did. Everywhere was decked out for Christmas and it snowed day after the wedding, which was so romantic!” n 122

Photographer: The Two Photographers, 07970 615267, thetwophotographers.com.

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WINTER PARTY TIME With our LED furniture, matting and lighting we can transform any garage or outbuilding into Winter Party Central. 0808 169 1690 www.funky-tents.co.uk

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A FESTIVE

AFFAIR

FRANK LYMAN’S LATEST COLLECTION IS THOROUGHLY FESTIVE WHILE IN KEEPING WITH THE BRAND’S CLASSY STYLE. BROWSE THE COLLECTION... Main: This chic skater dress with pearl collar and sleeves is ideal for a Christmas do and matches with red heels and a red lipstick (#183089) £210.

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Main: A monochrome look for a dinner with friends (#183120) ÂŁ120. Opposite: Go for a Christmas tartan for Christmas Day at home with the family, ÂŁ170.

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Main: The touch of pearls in this all black outfit makes it simple, classy and just a little Christmassy (#183908, #183116U). Opposite: A floral dress with flared sleeves and a touch of red (#183649).

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SOCKS FOR MEN

Best Foot FORWARD

Put your best foot forward in 2019 and ask Santa for these designer socks...

1. John Lewis, Herringbone burgundy red & blue, £15/two pairs. 2. Ralph Lauren Polo red stripe socks £24.95/two pairs. 3. Ralph Lauren Polo, cobalt, navy, green £27.95/three pairs. 4. Happy Socks Nautical, red check from gift box £29.95/four pairs. 5. Happy Socks Nautical, white ropes from gift box £29.95/four pairs. 6. Calvin Klein stripe socks £10. 7. Ralph Lauren Polo bear socks £24.95/two pairs. 8. Ralph Lauren Polo red stripe socks £24.95/two pairs. 9. Happy Socks Nautical, star design from gift box £29.95/four pairs. 10. Barbour Pheasant £10.95. 11. Barbour Blue Dog £10.95. 12. Happy Socks Nautical, white spots from gift box £29.95/four pairs. n All of our featured socks are available from John Lewis at Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NL 01733 344644, or see www.johnlewis.com.

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HIGH QUALITY SKIN TREATMENTS & NON-INVASIVE MEDICAL AESTHETIC TREATMENTS FOR MEN AND WOMEN... All medical aesthetics treatments by a full-time industry leading and expert Aesthetics Doctor... HydraFacial six stage bespoke Medi-facials for men and women. Skin tightening with Forma Plus radio frequency and 3rd Generation HiFu, IPL Photo-rejuvenation with Lumecca, Laser hair removal for all skin types and hair colours using mixed wavelength technologies from DiolazeXL, Acne Clinic, Rosacea and Sun damage treatment, Cellulite reduction, Body contouring, PRP and plasma treatments...

342 Welford Rd, Leicester LE2 6EH

0116 270 0123 www.skintiqueclinic.com

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Award-Winning Treatments at Skintique clinic Leicester’s Skintique Clinic led by Dr Natalia Hancock recently won an ‘Outstanding Clinic’ Award from global HLA dermal filler brand Teoxane

Skintique Clinic, based in Leicester, recently beat off competition to win an Outstanding Clinic Award from Global hyaluronic acid experts Teoxane. Awarded for excellence in business practice, patient safety and commitment to developing the aesthetics market, Founder Natalia and her team proved to be leading the way in their field.

Swiss skin experts Teoxane are globally recognised for their leading Teosyal fillers and innovative skincare range Teoxane Cosmeceuticals, all of which are based on a unique resilient hyaluronic acid that delivers impressive results for hydration, plumping and renewal of the skin.

The UK division developed the Outstanding Clinic Award, as a way of recognising clinics that go that extra mile delivering exceptional results for clients along with the utmost in customer service, while driving innovation in the aesthetic and anti- ageing industry.

Jordan Sheals, the HLA filler brand’s Head of Marketing & Medical Education commented: “Teoxane UK are delighted to award Natalia Hancock with the Outstanding Clinic Award. Natalia has been a brand ambassador for Teosyal products for several

“Teoxane is the emblem of the Franco-Swiss aesthetic - excellence through simplicity with a real and unrivalled elegance.”

“Our clinic is centred around subtlety, enhancing a person’s natural beauty and creating ‘je ne sais quoi’ image. The wide range of high quality Teosyal products allows to tune each treatment to clients’ individual needs.”

years and continues to deliver a patient journey which is second to none from her clinic in Leicester.

Natalia is a valued member of the Teoxane extended family and is recognised for her experience within the field of aesthetics, it is a great pleasure to present her with this award.’’ “We are delighted and humbled at the same time. The award brings a real sense of fulfilment to be recognised by this worldclass company and we look forward to strengthening and developing our relationship with Teoxane in the years to come.”

“We’re dedicated to providing clients with results using a wide range of high quality treatments,” says the clinic’s Doctor Natalia Hancock who has over 25 years in the medical profession, and leads the team at one of UK’s most reliable aesthetic clinics for professional, safe and ethical treatments. Since 2005 Natalia has been working in the UK, is fully qualified, registered with the General Medical Council and has a full licence to practice as a medical doctor in the UK. Natalia is also a member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), Save Face, BLMA and ACE. n Contact the clinic for details at Skintique Clinic, Welford Road, Leicester, call 0116 270 0123 or see www.skintiqueclinic.com.

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BEAUTY

IT’S THE SEASON TO SPARKLE AND IF YOUR DIARY IS BRIMMING WITH FESTIVE FUNCTIONS AND IDEAS FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS, WE’RE HAPPY TO RECOMMEND THE LATEST PRODUCTS FROM OUR FAVOURITE MAKEUP BRANDS TO ENSURE YOU LOOK AND FEEL YOUR VERY BEST

5. Seeing Stars

1. Let there be Ambient Light

Brand new from Charlotte Tilbury is her new Stars In Your Eyes palette which revolutionises the way you use colour. Happy Eyes are inspired by sunlit amber; Love Eyes by rose quartz; Confidence Eyes by topaz ruby and Power Eyes by gold. Four mood-enhancing eye looks to inspire love, power, happiness and confidence. £60.

Introducing the next generation of the coveted Edit by the Ambient Lighting brand. The Unlocked edition features six new exclusive shades of powder, bronzer, blush and metallic strobe powder. All six powders are formulated with pure Photoluminescent Technology to capture, diffuse and soften surrounding light for skin that appears softer and younger as though lit from within. £69.

2. Back to Black

Five star waterproof mascara from Terry. This restructuring formula is enriched with moisturising volumising Hyaluronic Acid, repairing-protecting Collagen. Concentrated glossy-care pigments, and high-definition brush, make it worth the investment. £33.50.

3. Potent Colour

Offering potent colour in one stroke, Estée Lauder’s Pure Colour is shown here in Misbehave shade. It’s one of the industry’s highest pigment lipsticks ever with 25 per cent intense pure pigment. and is available in 16 shades and two finishes; satin or pearl. £34.

4. The Right Lines

A must-have staple of your makeup bag is a decent eye liner, and Mac is one of our go-to brands. Liquid eye liner pen with a precision brush tip that wears strong all day long for 24 hours. Available in black or brown. £18.50.

6. Nail Your Colour

Long-lasting and super-glossy, what more could one require from a nail colour? Nails Inc is superb quality colour in four shades. Fashion Therapy is a cool berry shade gives a richly pigmented result. Formulated with a long wear system and features the Nails Inc wide hugging brush for flawless application. £15.

n All our beauty products are available from local high quality independent stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP. Visit each makeup brand’s website for more information on local stockists. 135

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CHRISTMAS BEAUTY COUNTDOWN

The festive season is around the corner, and whilst many of us have a pre-party regime, aesthetician Lisa Claypole has a range of treatments designed to work harder and provide more dramatic results than spa or salon treatments for clients. Lisa established Elysia Health and Beauty 16 years ago and she is based in the

beautiful village of Tansor, just 2 miles from Oundle and a 20-minute drive from Stamford and Oakham.

INCH-LOSS TREATMENTS TO â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;DROP A DRESS SIZEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

X-Wave Shockwave therapy can be used on the arms, underarms or anywhere cellulite occurs.

Laser hair removal using Elysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynton

medical laser will ensure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re smooth

With two months to go, a series of

and allow you to avoid shaving.

about eight Lipofirm Pro treatments or a CACI cellulite massaging treatment will use heat and tissue resistance to facilitate contouring for men or

women, enabling you to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;drop a dress size,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; flatten the tummy, arms or legs, and smooth cellulite.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;MY CLIENTS ARE DRIVEN BY RESULTS AND

SO AM I. THATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WHY ALL OUR TREATMENTS

CERTAINLY DELIVER OUTSTANDING RESULTS.â&#x20AC;?

LASER HAIR REMOVAL AND A FACIAL

SKIN REJUVENATION FOR TREATING CELLULITE AND LOOSE SKIN One of our most well-received treatments is

A â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;red carpet peelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Dr Zo Obagi Skin

Health will reduce the prevalence of fine lines, smooth wrinkles, and lessen the appearance of age spots.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no down-time, just instant results and a fabulous glow. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of our most popular treatments!â&#x20AC;?

our X-Wave Shockwave therapy - it sounds brutal but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painless and very effective at treating cellulite on the bottom, loose skin under the arms, and at smoothing cellulite stretch marks. A series of treatments over and

the course of month usually leave clients very impressed with its effectiveness! LIPOFIRM PRO

This is also especially effective for treating conditions like rosacea.

STRESS-FREE & READY TO CELEBRATE

Enjoy a St Tropez all over tans for a safe, natural bronze glow without the use of harmful tanning beds.

AT ELYSIA HEALTH & BEAUTY WE REALLY LOVE WHAT WE

DO AND ARE

COMMITTED TO HELPING YOU ACHIEVE GREAT SKIN FOR A LIFETIME

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We also provides a range of manicure and

pedicures, lashes and relaxation treatments in time for any occasion!

Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansorr, Oundle

www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com eauty.com

01832 226328 or 07879 620196

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BEAUTY

ScentSational

FESTIVE FRAGRANCES FOR THE PARTY SEASON OR AS A THOUGHTFUL GIFT

1. Burberry Her Eau de Parfum, 100ml, £96. 2. Van Cleef & Arpels Rose Rouge Eau de Parfum, 75ml £130. 3. Guerlain Mon Guerlain Eau de Toilette, 100ml £87. 4. Cartier Carat Eau de Parfum, 100ml £111.50. 5. Floris ‘A Rose For...’ Eau De Parfum, 100ml £160. 6. Carven Paris-Sao Paulo Eau De Parfum, 100ml £140. n Featured fragrances are available from John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NL. Call 01733 344644 or see www.johnlewis.com.

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PRIVATE HEALTHCARE WITH AVICENNA

DR HANY ELMADBOUH, SENIOR CONSULTANT, AT AVICENNA CLINIC EXPLAINS FROZEN SHOULDER

The shoulder is a complex system made up of the humerus (the upper arm bone), the scapula (the shoulder blade), and the clavicle (the collar bone). The bones, ligaments and tendons that make up the shoulder joint are encased in a capsule of connective tissue. Frozen shoulder also known as adhesive capsulitis occurs when this capsule thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, restricting its movement. This condition was first described in 1875 by the French Pathologist Duplay, who named it ‘peri-arthrite scapula-humer- ale’. The American surgeon E. A. Codman proposed the name ‘frozen shoulder’ in 1934. The condition is not uncommon and it is estimated that 2.4 per 1000 population per year develop frozen shoulder.

frozen shoulder. The condition is more common in women and those suffering from diabetes.

It is not clear why some people develop frozen shoulder, although it's more likely to occur in people who have diabetes or those who recently had to immobilise their shoulder for a long period, such as after surgery, an arm fracture, stroke or breast surgery. In these conditions, it is important to exercise to maintain the range of motion in the shoulder joint and reduce the chance of developing

Making the correct diagnosis is crucial, and will ensure an efficient and optimum treatment for the patient. The diagnosis is based on history taking and clinical examination. Imaging by ultrasound and MRI may help to exclude other conditions that may be confused with frozen shoulder such as rotator cuff impingement or tear, inflammatory condition or a more serious pathology as cancer.

Frozen shoulder is an extremely painful and debilitating condition leading to stiffness and disability. It typically occurs in the fifth and sixth decades of life, thus affecting individuals of working age.

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Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly typically in three overlapping stages. Each stage can last a number of months.

Freezing stage: Lasting 2 months to 9 months. Any movement of your shoulder causes pain, and the shoulder's range of motion starts to become limited.

Frozen stage: lasting 4 months to 12 months. Pain may begin to diminish during this stage. However, the shoulder becomes stiffer, and using it becomes more difficult. Thawing stage: lasting 12 months to 42 months. The range of motion in the shoulder begins to improve.

Because of overlapping phases, for simplicity, the condition is also classified into ‘pain predominant’ and ‘stiffness predominant’ phases. For some people, the pain worsens at night, sometimes disrupting sleep.

Conservative treatment of frozen shoulder is usually initiated once the condition is suspected. Pain relief may be achieved by gentle heat (e.g. a hot water bottle or wheat bag for 10-15 minutes) or an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) applied to the shoulder area for a maximum of 10 minutes twice a day. Antiinflammtory medications and pain killer may also be used to reduce the pain. If symptoms fail to resolve with conservative treatment, then invasive interventions aimed at stretching of the shoulder joint capsule such as manipulation under anaesthesia, Image-guided hydrodilatation or arthroscopic capsular release may be needed. Physiotherapy and corticosteroid injection are also used, usually to supplement any of the other interventions. Avicenna clinic specialises in pain management and minimal invasive intervention. The clinic has a range of specialist consultants, operating theatre for surgical procedures and superior in-house imaging facilities – including stateof-the-art MRI, ultrasound and X-ray scanning equipment. We can assess and diagnose all cases of acute and chronic pain quickly and deliver comprehensive treatment plans tailored to you. n To book a consultation or for more information on treating your pain and explore the other available services to help you, contact Avicenna Clinic on 0330 2020597 or see avicennaclinic.com. Or visit North Street, Peterborough PE1 2RA.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Kind businesses fund new play area

BARNSDALE LODGE, PLOUGH AND WHEATSHEAF HELP CREATE NEW PLAY AREA RUTLAND Youngsters in the village of Greetham are praising local businesses who rather heroically helped to raise £117,000 for a new play area for children in the village... and they weren’t the only heroes there. Spiderman also dropped in, as did Rutland’s Lord-Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness and Rutland Radio’s Rob Persani. Contributing to the cost of the play area were Barnsdale Lodge, the Plough and Wheatsheaf and Twinlakes Theme Park, as well as recycling firm Biffa - who contributed £38,000 - and Rutland County Council who provided a grant of £27,000. The project was led by chairperson of the Greetham Play Area Group S J Dryland who says: “They’ve all got right behind us from the start and we totally appreciate their support. We are absolutely

thrilled. It’s taken us three years of hard work and non-stop effort to get our super new play area. It’s a huge achievement and it will be worth every minute and

New Stamford Gallery is dedicated to Hockney

DESIGN-LED ART, ACCESSORIES & JEWELLERY

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every penny. We have 54 new homes and 250 children in Greetham and they’re going to get a lot of joy out of this fantastic new play area.” The new facility was provided STAMFORD Mr and Mrs Clark’s is a gallery dedicated exclusively to David Hockney - the gallery showcases an ever evolving range of Mr Hockneys work through the years. Mr Clark is an expert in the Hockney market and offers an enthusing and passionate overview providing substantial background on all the pieces, gained by an unprecedented amount of research and enthusiasm. The most influential artist of the 20th Century and also the UK’s most loved artist David Hockney’s life’s work is ever growing and he remains as prolific now as he

by Langham-based Playscape Playgrounds and features a separate fenced-off area for under-fives, as well as a zip wire, basket swing and multi-play equipment. n was in the 60’s, if not more so. Complementing Hockney’s notion that we should all notice and appreciate nature much more than we do in our day to day lives, Mrs Clark offers an awe inspiring jewellery showcase, handmade from nature, quite literally from a head of barley, a pine needle, a daisy, or an olive leaf, coated in copper, silver and then 24 carat gold. These exquisite pieces are exclusive to Mr and Mrs Clark’s. The gallery also stocks a colourful range of handmade Italian leather handbags. n High Street, St Martins, Stamford,

THE IDEAL FAMILY GET TOGETHER KITCHEN

STAMFORD & RUTLAND Have you found difficulty in catering for large family numbers this Christmas? If so long established kitchen specialist – Steve Hills Design, may have the answer. With complete design flexibility, Steve Hills Design can make the best possible use of your kitchen space, designing and producing a kitchen that offers all the cooking, food preparation and seating capacity you could possibly require and

all to a style that suits your individual taste. Steve’s full project management service takes care of all the necessary services and trades to not only ensures the perfect finish, but that projects don’t run over budget. Re-think your kitchen ready for spring, contact Steve Hills Design today and give yourself the kitchen of your dreams! n Call 07812 389869, email steve@stevehillsdesign.co.uk or see www.stevehillsdesign.co.uk.

Olive Branch wins ‘County Dining Pub of the Year’ title

Image: The Olive Branch team receiving last year’s Pride Magazines Restaurant of the Year Award.

GOOD PUB GUIDE AWARDS 2019 CELEBRATES CLIPSHAM PUB’S MICHELIN-STANDARD DINING

The mower the merrier for the area’s verges and green spaces... STAMFORD Enterprising South Kesteven District Council has set up a private company which will be used to maintain green spaces in the area and make money for the district too. £500,000 has been set aside for Environment SK which will take care of parks or green spaces and will generate income by working for parish councils and neighbouring district councils too in order to turn a profit. n

£25,000 Jackpot

Bespoke luxury...

OVER 1,054 TICKETS were sold in the first three weeks for the new LotterySK, run by South Kesteven District Council. Not only does the new lottery scheme have a jackpot of £25,000, but 60 pence for every £1 ticket sold goes to good causes in the area - more than twice the proportion raised by the National Lottery. n

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RUTLAND Rutland restauranteurs Ben Jones and Sean Hope are celebrating another year’s accolade to add to their long list of achievements, with two awards in the 2019 Good Pub Guide for County Dining Pub of the Year and as a runner-up in the Pub of the Year category. With 1997 bringing news that their local pub would close, three villagers set up a company to purchase the place and revitalise it. The Olive Branch is now a destination pub for those who love superb quality dining in a relaxed setting. The Olive Branch also held a Michelin star from 2002 to 2012. n

BUSINESS

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION YOU CAN STICK TO... DO LESS HOUSEWORK! Do you have a new year’s resolution? Cutting back on the chocolates? Going to the gym? How about a resolution you’ll stick to... doing less housework? If that sounds like a tempting prospect, speak to Time for You, who provide screened and vetted self-employed cleaners across the region for anything from vacuuming to dusting to ironing. Owner of our local franchise Jo Morgan-Waters says her agents do just the jobs you require. “We clean your home so you don’t have to! We know the value of free time. You deserve to spend quality time, whether it be golfing, shopping, reading a book or simply spending more time with your family. After all, time is finite!” she says. “Life is too short to spend your free time cleaning! n Call 01780 671071 for information.

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BARNSTONE ACCOUNTANCY

Someone You Can Always

ACCOUNTANT ON

Finally, an accountant who’s top dog in their industry but leaves their clients feeling like the cat who’s got the cream. With the knowledge that counts, plus a warm approachable personality, Julieanne Charles of Rutland’s Barnstone Accountancy is the animal-friendly accountant whose clients love her supportive, plain-speaking, help and reliability! Words & Images: Rob Davis.

Changing the face of accountancy, Greetham’s Julieanne Charles of Barnstone Accountancy combines the widest breadth of knowledge and expertise plus a specialisation in complex tax matters with a sometimes uncharacteristic approachability; relatively unheard of, for her industry! Julieanne is an accountant, but not like any accountant you’ve ever met before. Sitting in her office - a converted barn - I’m playing the part of client and I’m treated to not only a nice cup of tea, but the view of her lush courtyard garden, a cuddle from Narla the German Shepherd and pussy cat Tiggy - on whom Julieanne’s company mascot Barnstone is based in her Pride adverts. The log burner is on and as the wind howls around Greetham we’re treated to chartered accountant and tax advisor Julieanne’s down-to-earth explanation of

even the trickiest accountancy conundrums and the nuances of taxation.

Now semi-retired, Julieanne was raised in Bletchley, Buckinghamshire and worked latterly in the motor industry, eventually leaving General Motors (Vauxhall) after completing 12 years and 5 senior management roles in Finance. The roles varied from Project Accounting and Computer System implementations through to Audit and Tax Compliance. She moved to Rutland in 2008 and left GM three years later, setting up her private accountancy practice.

Today, Julieanne’s practice has about 50 clients, ranging from the very largest - a Leicester-based service industry firm with over 250 employees for whom she fulfils an ersatz financial director role and completes the payroll - to many specialised and sole trader businesses. These include photographers, TV presenters, engineers, chauffeurs, farmers, historians and even rugby players. Half of Julieanne’s clients are private individuals whilst the remaining half are business owners. Barnstone’s range of services span everything from day-to-day bookkeeping, monthly management accounts, quarterly VAT returns or annual statutory accounts, selfassessment, corporation tax returns. The practice also performs a payroll bureau service and has supported many businesses through the auto-enrolment process and ongoing workplace pension activities. What makes Julieanne so unique, though, is that she works with a very common-sense approach.

Left: With a rural location, and a couple of furry office assistants, Julieanne Charles is changing the face of accountancy with user-friendly help and advice for any size of business.

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“I’m trying to change the face of the profession from an industry that can sometimes be so dry and jargon heavy - so unintelligible that it becomes arcane, a dark art, something that business owners sometimes struggle to comprehend, even though they really should or need to understand.”

“The nature of the practice is such that I’m able to be really adaptable and give a client a bespoke service with just the level of attention they need - some clients want to leave a pile of receipts and files and have them checked, but others want a more involved relationship with advice, and a sounding board on hand.”

“I can set up Sage or Xero computer systems and accounting/business processes for those running a small business. I can ensure that clients have the ability to run their business confidently from their iPad or iPhone and that I can dial into their systems to offer remote technical support, when necessary.” Every business owner should have someone to help them run their business in the 21st century with processes that make doing so, simple and stress-free. I can even help with basic processes like expenses and mileage forms.” “As we approach this year’s self-assessment deadline it’s painful to me to hear that some people have stress and that they struggle with the financial administration of a business they otherwise enjoy running.”

“The nature of my business also means I can promise to be available not just during office hours, but during evenings and weekend too, and can make a promise to respond to clients’ questions and problems within 24 hours.” “More people appreciate coming to see me and stroking the dogs and cats than not. But that’s fine; we can always leave them in the house. What everyone appreciates though - without exception - is honest, jargon-free, objective advice, a service that’s tailored to suit you, and the fact that I can support your business with whatever services you need, and offer prompt, reliable help and advice. A ‘Bespoke’ accountancy service without the ‘Bespoke’ price tag!” n Barnstone Accountancy is based in Greetham, Rutland. Call 01572 811497 or see www.barnstoneaccountancy.co.uk.

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ASTON MARTIN SuPERlEGGERA lAuNCH • BElVOIR CASTlE • EMICS FuNDRAISING BAll

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BELVOIR CASTLE

A birthday reception held for KuKu Connect, local marketing agency with Michael Kapur OBE, Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire...

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THE EMICS BALL Held at Greetham Valley, for the East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme. Images by Bourne Photographic Studios...

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ASTON MARTIN

Aston Martin has just launched the new Superleggera motor, so we went along to a VIP event in Nottingham to see it for ourselves...

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MOTORS

CHRISTMAS DREAMING OF A LIGHT

Lighter in weight, meaner, more muscular. Superleggera is a flagship version of Aston Martin’s DBS, offering a thrilling visceral experience for fans of the marque and a V12 engine with a truly dark side...

Aston Martin Superleggera, on sale now, 5.2 V12

£225,000

When it comes to performance, as a car maker, you can make your high performance model one of two things; more powerful, or lighter. Aston Martin, however, have done both for their new performance range-topper, the Superleggera. But their new model is about more than just brawn, the car is about heritage too.

Superleggera - super light in Italian - is a suffix last seen on the original 1967 model. This car, then, is a new Aston Martin that has its forebears very much in mind. What’s more, the car also returns the brand to the use of DBS as its nomenclature for the firm’s flagship grand tourer models, meaning the car essentially replacing the Vanquish S both in terms of its place in Aston’s lineage, but also in name too.

As manufacturers like Lamborghini and Ferrari surpass their supercar expertise with a new breed of hypercar, such as Ferrari’s 812 Superfast, so to does Aston Martin need a car that’s even more performance-focused than its Vantage and DB11 models. The DBS Superleggera, then, is that car, and it has a hand-built 5.2 litre V12 engine generating a colossal 715bhp. >>

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Heritage: Aston Martin’s Landmark Models...

Aston Martin DB5, 1963–1965; 1,059 produced; price new £ 4,175 (Saloon); now worth £650,000: The iconic Aston Martin was immortalised in the big-screen version of 007’s adventures, even though Fleming’s original novels had the spy driving a DBIII or (whisper the name) a Bentley Blower. Compared to the DB4, changes included 15” wheels and electric windows. Top speed was 142mph, 60mph was reached in 7.1 seconds. The 2018 Superleggera weighs 1,693kg, whereas the DB5 tips the scales at 1,468kg. n

Aston Martin Lagonda, 1974-1990; 645 produced; price new £49,933 (1979), now worth £72,500 (1985 model): Indulge me! This oddball Aston is arguably the company’s most kitsch model, a vision of the future from that stylistically unique decade... the 1970s! A limousine with a 5.3 litre V8 engine and three speed automatic gearbox, Lagonda reached 60mph in 7.9 seconds and achieved 148mph. It was too futuristic for its own good though - plagued by electronic gremlins - but this was a bona fide vision of the future. It also paved the way for Aston’s current Rapide four seater, and the firm is working on a new all-electric Lagonda, a much improved spiritual successor, which will be launched perhaps in 2023 alongside its first SUV, a Bentley Bentayga rival. n

>> The car’s engine is a fettled version of the unit fitted to the DB11 AMR, the racing version of Aston’s mid-range supercar. However, in the Superleggera, based on the underpinnings of the DB11, the extra power and torque means the company has had to design and install an entirely new transmission and gearbox capable of channelling the engine’s huge power output down and out through the 21 inch wheels. Aston Martin DB7, 1999–2003; 4,431 produced; price new £78,500 (2003); now worth £49,999 (2003 Volante): DB7 may not have had an illustrious presence in film franchises, but it’s a hero to us, as the car that saved Aston Martin. It was the best selling car for the firm by a long way, accounting for almost one third of the firm’s total production of 22,000 cars up to 1914. DB7 was the resulting car from a rescue deal by Ford, which purchased 75% of the firm in 1987 and the rest in 1994. DB7 was Aston’s last chance for survival. It was important to get the car right, so it was Aston Martin’s most developed model ever with 30 prototypes built It introduced the modern DB shape and Touchtronic gearbox. 185mph; 0-60mph 5 secs; 1780kg. n

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A new exhaust system doesn’t hold back on the noise either, giving the Superleggera a more sonorous note than the more comfortoriented DB11. Extensive aerodynamic work, and the installation of carbon fibre body panels, too, means the car Superleggera with its Aeroblade II rear wing generates 180kg of downforce compared to the

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“The car is breathtakingly pretty, especially with a gloss black roof and gloss wheels as shown here and plush inside too...” DB11’s 70kg. To cut through the jargon a little, that means that whilst the car is more powerful and lighter too, it also sucks itself down onto the road for better handling, too.

The car is breathtakingly pretty, especially with a gloss black roof and gloss wheels as shown here. Inside, too, it’s well-equipped despite being designed for performance rather than comfort. So many cars like Porsche’s GT2 achieve their weight-saving measures by stripping creature comforts back from the driver, but Aston has laudably

ensured day-to-day comfort as well as performance with the Superleggera. With a price tag of £225,000, the new Aston is eye-wateringly expensive but if you needed any justification besides wanting to get the firm’s most sophisticated model into your garage, it’s unlikely to lose any money in depreciation. Consider it, then, an investment in fun for now and in monetary value in the future when it becomes a future classic, as the DBS did before it. Meanwhile, sit back and enjoy the most driver-focused car Aston has ever created. n

ASTON MARTIN DBS SUPERLEGGERA Price: £225,000 (on sale now). Motor/Drivetrain: 5.2 litre 48v twin-turbo V12, rear-wheel drive. Performance: 0-60mph 3.4 secs 211mph top speed. Economy: 22.9mph (combined), 285g/km CO2. Equipment: 2+2 seating, alcantara/leather seats, f/r parking sensors, 360° camera, keyless entry, climate, cruise, sat nav. n 159

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