Stamford Pride September 2021

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STAMFORD

READ

FREE ONLINE

STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

Local companies reveal the key to getting Stamford businesses up and running again, in a post-Covid era

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WELCOME

W

e can hope. We can dream, and we can keep our fingers crossed. Here’s hoping that as we move into the autumn months, we’ll finally be rid of Covid. We’re all a little battered and bruised from the experience, nerves are a little frayed, but there’s scarcely time to reflect because now the work begins, rebuilding the country.

This month we’re reflecting on how we all need to support local businesses and finding out how different sectors have coped with the pandemic; adapting, enduring... keeping calm and carrying on.

We’ll also hear from Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Rutland to find out how the public have done their bit to keep communities safe.

Elsewhere? Well, with theatres and other entertainment venues now able to open up, and with a population very much in need of a smile, we’ll speak to Nikolai Foster of Leicester’s Curve to find out how, as part of the performing arts and culture sector, the theatre is planning a very strong autumn season to entice theatregoers back in.

Also, we’re meeting Oakham Mayor Zoe Nealson to find out why she’s keen to encourage more people to involve themselves in local politics, shape the future of the town and support their local community.

With a visit to Uppingham’s Crown to enjoy a meal too, there’s a lot happening both in this edition... and in a postpandemic Rutland & Stamford, too!

Executive Editor Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

robin@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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24 CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

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NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford, including Stamford’s newest resident, Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood.

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WHAT’S ON September’s live events.

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HIGHLIGHTS 17

CELEBRATING FREEDOM With the relaxation of restrictions what does post-Covid freedom mean for Stamford and Rutland businesses?

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AHEAD OF THE CURVE What now for the performing arts sector?

We preview the autumn season and reflect on post-Covid life with Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster.

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OAKHAM’S MAYOR Zoe Nealson on a busy year ahead in Oakham.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES The best nurseries, schools and colleges from across Rutland & Stamford.

DINING OUT IN UPPINGHAM Brand new menus and a great dining out experience at The Crown in Uppingham.

WINE & SPIRITS September treats.

HOMES & GARDENS 58

WELCOME HOME The picture perfect rectory, near Stamford, that’s both spacious and beautiful.

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HOMES & GARDENS Impressive kitchens from Oundle Mill, stylish furnishing from Simply Stamford.

FASHION & LIFESTYLE 94

WEDDINGS A selection of the best local wedding venues.

107 FASHION & COSMETICS Find out why vest is best with a selection of giléts, plus luxury cosmetics.

120 MOTORING Executive saloons from Mercedes Benz.

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107 READ

THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

FREE ONLINE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE PRIDE TEAM Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

General Manager: Ian Bagley.

Sales Manager: Charlotte Daubney.

Sales Supervisor: Cydney Buck.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Illustrator: Jocelyn Lawman.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Web Developer: Joe Proctor.

Administration and Office Managers: Debbie Wellington, Sami Millard, Paul Robinson-Marsh, Will Hoare.

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

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

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NEWS & EVENTS

A Boom in Biking for Stamford...

FROM THREE MEMBERS TO OVER 100! IT’S BEEN A BUMPER YEAR FOR BICYCLES! STAMFORD It’s less than a year old, but The Cyclists of Stamford group has seen the number of its members grow from just three to over 100!

The group cycles around the area on Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings, and during the pandemic, they have divided themselves into smaller groups in order to adhere to rules. The group also prides itself on inclusivity and has a tandem to allow less able people to enjoy cycling, which has already proved popular with one visually impaired member of the group. Elsewhere the group divides itself into the ‘quicks, reasonably quicks or relaxed’ cyclists.

“If you love cycling or want to give it a try, The Cyclists of Stamford is almost definitely right for you.

We are a community cycling group happy to share our knowledge of great local

routes, café stops and the joy of road cycling,” says cofounder Paul McCormick.

“Hilly or flat, fast or leisurely, long or short, we will endeavour to deliver the right combination of fitness, fun

Celebrating Diversity WORLD MUSIC, CUISINE, ARTS & CRAFTS CELEBRATED ON STAMFORD’S BANK HOLIDAY

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and camaraderie We are also keen to help and support the people around us, whether this is with our time, experience or with fund raising.”

“As a minimum we will give at least 50% of any STAMFORD It’s a celebration of world culture from music to food to arts and crafts as Pride goes to press.

Stamford Diversity will take place on the town’s recreation ground from 11am-6pm on Bank Holiday Monday. The event has been funded by South Kesteven District Council’s Community Fund, Stamford Town Council and from sales of the Stamford World Cook sold by All Good Market and Cakes + Co. Headlining the event’s selection of world music is ‘King’ Don Saunders, who was born in St Vincent and

remaining monies to a local charity (at the end of each financial year) and organise a specific charity ride.” n For more information on the group see www.thecyclistsofstamford.com. the Grenadines but has lived in the area for three decades.

He’ll be entertaining crowds with the steel drums, whilst Latino Sound’s Moises Sanchez and Mellow Baku will be bringing Latino music and Trinidadian Rastafarian blues to the event.

The event will also feature a range of arts, crafts and world food from Thai, Mexican, Caribbean and Indian food as well as cakes and crêpes. n Stamford Diversity has been organised by Stamford Anti-Racism Group, more information can be found on the group’s Facebook page.

CREATING AN ACCESSIBLE CANAL WALK

Thank you to our front line NHS workers from SKDC South Kesteven District Council has marked the first ever NHS Social Care and Frontline Workers’ Day by raising a flag to recognise and express gratitude for everything that NHS and frontline staff and key workers have done and continue to do and to remember those who lost their lives during the Covid crisis.

A one-minute silence was followed by a prayer of thanksgiving from Father Stuart Cradduck. n STAMFORD

OAKHAM Two local charities have teamed up to create an accessible footpath through woods near Oakham canal.

St John and St Anne is the oldest charity in the county, dating back to 1399 and provides social housing for older people in need.

The charity has recently given permission to the Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project to develop 1km of footpath through woodland and grass verges, providing a better experience

and an accessible route for walkers and dog owners.

Ramps, fencing and signage will now be provided, and overgrown parts will be cleared to make the route easier to navigate. The aim is to clear a complete route between the town centre and Oakham Enterprise Park.

Oakham Canal opened in 1802 as an extension of The Melton Mowbray Navigation which was established in 1797.

The canal closed in 1847 and was abandoned 30 years later. n

A great place to live Daaarling!

STRICTLY STAR CRAIG SWAPS HAMPSHIRE HOME FOR PROPERTY IN STAMFORD AS HE MOVES INTO THE AREA...

STAMFORD He’s the showbiz star set to add some sparkle to Stamford. Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood is swapping his £2.75m Hampshire home, Middlecott Manor, for a house ‘in Stamford, near to Rutland Water’ and has already booked a nearby church for an August 2023 wedding with a marquee in the garden.

“It’s really lovely. Seven bedrooms, bigger pool... I’m upsizing,” he said about the period property which dates back to 1867.

Craig and partner Jonathan Myring will make their home in the area, as the latter has family in Leicester. n

£1,400,000

Two charities team up

BOURNE A £1.4m revamp of Eventus at Market Deeping has been given the green light, paving the way for the building to incubate new businesses. The building opened in 2009 and is 95% occupied, and a year long refurbishment will build on its success at providing space for businesses to establish themselves and grow. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief MANTON x

Completion of £2.8m project to refurbish railway bridge Network Rail has completed a £2.8m project to reconstruct a 150 year old railway bridge over the A6003 in Manton. A team of civil engineers have worked hard to demolish the bridge and then install a new, stronger one from underneath.

The work will mean train services between Melton Mowbray and Stamford can continue running safely and reliably.

The structure weighs a whopping 425 tonnes and work to secure its use for another 150 years has been completed by Network Rail slightly ahead of schedule, with residents’ patience praised by the company. n 9

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STAMFORD, LINCOLNSHIRE OIEO £1,050,000

The most delightful, five bedroomed house stands on a corner overlooking the River Welland in the centre of Stamford. An early 18th century property, the yellow stone house with its Collyweston slate roof, has generously proportioned rooms with timbered vaulted ceilings displaying a wealth of character and quirkiness. Not surprisingly Grade II listed, the property’s interior has an abundance of original features including old stone fireplaces, exposed structural beams and a mix of Georgian timber sash and casement windows. Three of the five bedrooms and the family bathroom enjoy beautiful, vaulted ceilings. Presented in exceptionally good order, a complete renovation project was carried out by the previous owner who installed high quality fixtures and fittings. The sheltered, south facing garden partly enclosed by fencing and trelliswork, is quite a sun trap. Mainly lawn edged by gravel, a raised, walled area in one corner acts as the perfect place for alfresco dining.

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

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

fineandcountry.com

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ELTON, CAMBRIDGESHIRE OIEO £1,250,000

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

With an outlook of All Saints’ Church behind, this new stone property was completed in 2017. It has been built to the highest specification with attention to detail and finish second to none. Designed for modern living, the well-proportioned rooms flow seamlessly from one to another. The front reception room links beautifully with other areas via double doors. The impressive living space at the back is illuminated by large windows and bi-folding doors creating the perfect place for entertaining.

Three en suite double bedrooms are found on the first floor and further two double bedrooms and a shower room on the top floor. Outside, automatic timber gates open into a landscaped, enclosed driveway and parking area. There is a double garage with room above and an adjoining oak framed car barn for two cars. The charming walled garden is immaculately presented in a formal, Italianate style with dwarf box hedges, lawns and patio areas directly off the house.

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NEW PRICE

LANGHAM

Offers Over £1.0m

UPPINGHAM

£850,000

A superb, substantial single storey family residence set on a private plot of approximately 0.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds with a range of amenity outbuildings, all located down a long private driveway on the edge of this highly regarded village and enjoying delightful views over adjoining fields. 2 Reception Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen/Diner, 2 Cloakrooms, Utility, Pantry, 5 Bedrooms, 5 Bath/Shower Rooms; Garaging. Energy Rating: TBC

Superb stone-built period property with mature south-facing gardens offering elegant, extensive character accommodation on town outskirts. Drawing Room, Dining Room, Dining Kitchen, ample Ancillary Accommodation (including Cellars), Study, 5 Double Bedrooms , 2 En-suite Shower Rooms, Family Bathroom, Garage. Energy Rating: TBC. Viewing is highly recommended.

UPPINGHAM

COTTESMORE, RUTLAND

£500,000

Beautifully presented, spacious detached house with superbly landscaped, private rear garden set in a sought-after residential area and enjoying views over open countryside to front. This immaculate property provides energy-efficient, high-specification accommodation with quality fixtures and fittings. Lounge, Study, open-plan Kitchen, Dining and Sitting Room, Clkrm, 4 Bedrooms, en-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; oversized single Garage. Energy Rating: B.

THE RIGHT TIME TO MARKET YOUR PROPERTY IS RIGHT NOW W OAKHAM 755555

UPPINGHAM 822587

STAMFORD S 766604

£395,000

Stunning detached two-bedroom Cottage with one-bedroom Guest Annex providing beautifully presented accommodation with a wealth of character and charming private gardens situated in a popular Rutland village. The property features log-burning stove, exposed timbers and button doors with latch furniture. The kitchen and 3 bath-/shower rooms have been all refitted to a high contemporary standard. Energy Rating: TBC.

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Offers in Excess of £700,000

Offers in Excess of £675,000

Ketton Road, Hambleton

Pickwell Road, Leesthorpe

An individual and unique three-bedroom stone property sitting in the soughtafter location of Hambleton, in need of modernisation.

This beautiful four-bedroom cottage sits in a peaceful location in the hamlet of Leesthorpe with a mature garden and lovely countryside views.

Offer in Excess of £425,000

Guide Price £325,000

Station Road, Oakham

Main Street, Wymondham

A handsome, red-brick period home with an abundance of character, off-road parking & garaging sitting within easy walking distance of Oakham town centre.

A charming and beautifully-presented three-bedroom character cottage, nestled into the heart of this quintessential village.

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Looking for your forever home? Look no further!

VALLEY VIEW, CASTLE BYTHAM, NEAR GRANTHAM A DEVELOPMENT OF 4 & 5 BEDROOM EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOMES

£POA - CALL FOR AVAILABILITY PLOTS 3 & 6 ALREADY SOLD STC

Drawing upon the expert knowledge of our in-house designers and architects, Valley View offers six 4 and 5 bedroom executive family homes on an exclusive gated development, finished to the highest of standards and specification: an exceptional build quality that has been designed to stand the test of time. A large luxurious kitchen to accommodate the whole family designed to make the most of the exceptional valley views; plenty of spacious bedrooms and bathrooms big enough to survive the chaos on those busy weekday mornings. Not forgetting the large gardens for those gorgeous summer days.

HIGH SPECIFICATION TO INCLUDE: Oak stairs with oak newel, handrail & spindles or glass balustrades. Quartz, granite or Corian worktops and upstands.

Air source heat pump system... Plus: the reassurance of an NHBC backed 10 year warranty.

Call 01733 558505 or visit www.oakwoodhomesltd.co.uk REGISTERED DEVELOPER OTHER DEVELOPMENT LOCATIONS: ROYSTON, FOLKSWORTH, HOLBEACH...

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PROPERTY FINDERS

New priorities for families Kate Vincent from Garrington property finders discusses the challenges of buying a home that works for all the family in a location with the right schooling.

For many, the demands of a home have changed considerably over the past eighteen months and whilst schooling options continue to be a priority for most families, a new home must meet the practical needs of the whole family – usually meaning more space and probably a dedicated home office.

Across Rutland and Stamford there are many highly regarded state and independent schools and competition for places remains fierce, as does the demand for homes in the surrounding areas. This makes searching for the perfect property in the ideal location that much more challenging.

Family priorities The priorities and needs for many families have changed considerably following the periods of lockdown and now as an increased number of parents work from home there is a new requirement for a dedicated at-home workspace.

Whilst fewer parents may have to commute daily, working hours remain the same and rarely align perfectly with school timings.

Parents who have more than one child, perhaps finishing at different times with after school clubs and activities, can find this particularly difficult to manage and may find that living close to a school can be an attractive option. With less property for sale and with such limited stock of ‘best of breed’ homes fitting these criteria across many prime locations, it is easy to understand why

premium prices continue to be paid for properties close and convenient to highly favoured schools.

The right location With the high cost of independent education, the attraction of obtaining a place for your child or children in a top performing state school may be an appealing one for many.

The most sought-after state schools will see parents focusing their efforts to find a new home within the catchment area. Finding that ideal home can be notoriously difficult, expensive and stress inducing. Also, as the school becomes more popular the catchment area can sometimes shrink and there is often a trend of increasing house prices within those catchment boundary lines.

Choosing independent schooling can present further challenges. With the significant cost difference between day pupils and boarders at some of the top establishments, living nearer to the school of choice could be a financially savvy move. If this financial saving was instead used to service mortgage borrowing costs, it might make a substantial difference to the level of available borrowing for buying a home and the potential equity gain from a higher value home if property values continue to rise.

Help is at hand With the continuing shortage of housing stock, it has become increasingly common

Kate Vincent Garrington

for families to move into rental properties ready for the start of the new term. This has the double advantage of allowing parents to settle their children in an orderly fashion and it also, places them in the strong position of being fully proceedable when the perfect property is eventually found.

Even with this relative advantage, finding and securing one of the elusive prime properties in and around Stamford and Rutland is far from easy as many are being sold off-market and there is considerable competition to contend with.

A professional property finder often gives buyers access to a wider choice of prime and off-market properties. They will also offer an objective assessment of properties and locations, enabling them to make wellinformed decisions, and being professionally represented will further elevate a buyer’s position.

Garrington’s consultants help buyers find and purchase properties that meet their lifestyle requirements. Their local expertise and in-depth knowledge of the property market assists homebuyers to consider a wider choice of properties and purchase more effectively.

If you are thinking of moving this year and would like further information on how Garrington can assist, contact Kate Vincent: Tel. 01780 408377. Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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

David Hockney RA OM CH | Untitled No 281 ‘My Window’ Edition B | Limited Edition Signed and Numbered iPad Drawing | 17″ x 13″

New Fine Art Gallery Now Open in Stamford 5-8 The Mews • The George Hotel • Stamford • PE9 2LB Tuesday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm | 01780 480800

Also at Lees Yard • Holt • Norfolk | Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm | 01263 713883 Please visit the website to view and purchase our artworks

w w w. a d r i a n h i l l f i n e a r t . c o m 16

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LIFE AFTER COVID

BUSINESS as USUAL? What does freedom mean?

What will life be like in a post-Covid era and will it be business as usual for local companies?

Let’s try to find out...

Words: Rob Davis.

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We’re all going on a (Great British) holiday!

Stamford’s Adam Brookes has discovered a better way to get away this Autumn...

“I worked in hospitality,” says Adam Brookes. “I supplied pubs and bars with gas to dispense beer, and whilst on furlough, I worked on a friend’s farm in Wiltshire living in a motorhome I’d converted. It was awesome!”

“I had the idea of purchasing motorhomes to hire out for people enjoying staycations and now have a fleet of five vehicles.”

“It was the right time to start the business and they’ve proved really successful, especially in a year when people are choosing to explore the UK instead of going abroad. This country has so much to offer and it’s great that more people than ever this year will recognise that!” n 01780 769576, www.spiritoffreedom.co.uk.

“I believe this will be a strong union that will help us to support our and the region’s businesses and economy to re-establish and thrive following lockdown...”

During lockdown, Rutland County Council joined Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, which will provide access to services and resources in a post-Covid economy.

“This will be a strong union that will help us to support our and the region’s businesses and economy to re-establish and thrive following lockdown,” says Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council. “Rutland boasts a resilient and passionate business community that brings a wealth of knowledge and talent to further enhance the LEP’s skills and expertise.”

Rutland’s membership of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP means that businesses in the county can now tap into the services and resources offered by the LEP. These include opportunities for project delivery, strategic planning, green energy investment and business support for sectors like agriculture, tourism and food & drink. n

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Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council.

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Raise a glass to support hotels, pubs and restaurants Optimism for Barnsdale Lodge and Hambleton Hall with a return to dining out...

Building businesses during Covid...

Some new businesses are emerging from Covid whilst others have taken the opportunity to grow n Barnsdale Lodge’s Ed Burrows and business partner Charles Randall have used lockdown to help set up another hotel in Derbyshire; Callow Hall.

The main house has 15 bedrooms whilst the site’s 11 woodland ‘Hives’ and its treehouses provide stunning accommodation in Ashbourne with the same warm welcome, excellent hospitality and great management that has been a hallmark of Barnsdale Lodge.

There’s a perception that it’s all over.

But that’s not quite the case, yet. It’s true that restaurants and hotels have been able to open their doors to customers once more but as soon as one obstacle has been removed, another appears in its place.

Open the doors may be, but a lack of staff across the industry is still causing problems for the UK’s restaurants and hotels.

“Just before the first lockdown we invested in a brand-new kitchen for the hotel. It’s state-of-the-art, with induction cooking ranges and air conditioning to create a safe and comfortable environment to work in, so there’s that, at least,” says Aaron Patterson of Hambleton Hall.

But Aaron and Ed Burrows of Barnsdale Lodge are still effected not necessarily by

the availability of staff locally, but by a UK-wide supply chain recruitment crisis.

“Brexit and Covid both occurred simultaneously so it’s difficult to separate the effect of either one individually. There’s a perception that the industry is OK now it’s able to open again, but a UK-wide shortage of hauliers is having an impact on the availability of ingredients or laundry.”

“Staff have vacated hospitality jobs or team members – thankfully not at Barnsdale – have been pinged, meaning that hospitality and all of the associated industries or supply chains are struggling to meet demand or raising prices as a result.”

April to July were the big months for restaurants and hotels, so in autumn they’re hoping for support and a good season. n

n Simply Stamford is featured in this edition, and was created

by Hannah Forcellati & Kate Needham in December 2020 after they both left the travel industry they’d worked in for 25 years. The new boutique on St Mary’s Street provides hand-picked home furnishings... see their homely luxe style for yourself later in this edition! n Oundle Mill is also featured later in this edition and has seen a three year restoration of the Grade II listed watermill in order to provide a home to a new business providing stunning handcrafted kitchens.

Tessa and John Hunter have created the business which, after a very patient wait, can finally welcome in visitors! n Refill Revolution now has branches in Market Harborough, Peterborough and Oundle.

During lockdown the company also began to deliver its products to Stamford, and aims to provide zero-refill, plasticfree dry food, household liquids and other products.

See www.refillrevolution.co.uk.

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We’ve all enjoyed our homes and gardens!

Home (and in the garden) has been where the heart is during the pandemic Fewer people are travelling abroad for their usual summer getaway this year.

And so, many have some extra cash to hand. Many are choosing to invest in their homes and gardens to get all of those projects they’ve been putting off underway.

Homes and gardens experts have seen a significant upturn in business as the population – spending more time at home and noticing the areas of their property that need an update – invest in their homes. In particular, garden centres have also seen interest in quality garden furniture, barbecues and so on. If we’re being asked to socialise outdoors, why not do so in comfort, after all?

Other businesses seeing increased interest include soft furnishings retailers, kitchen and bathroom specialists. n

This year’s Stamford Shakespeare Company production of the Importance of Being Earnest... in which a heart handshake in the script was changed to a Covid-safe elbow bump!

Live events are back in Stamford & Rutland...

To the delight of the performing arts sector, theatres are able to open their doors once again!

“It’s been a tricky year, but we’ve made it work,” says David Fensom, marketing and theatre manager at Stamford Shakespeare Company and Tolethorpe Hall.

really happy that we’ve been able to put on some productions, and the sight of people enjoying our plays and a picnic in the grounds has been lovely.”

“Covid has meant so much disruption, with small rehearsal bubbles, sanitising props and making sure everything’s safe at the front of house.”

Elsewhere, in this edition we’ve an interview with Nikolai Foster, Creative Director of Leicester’s Curve; “It’s essential for the UK’s cultural industries, beyond the enjoyment that our audiences can take from a visit to see one of our productions. It’s so important to the industry that we can get back into our theatres and recommence our programme of shows and productions.” www.stamfordartscentre.com www.curveonline.co.uk

“We also had to reduce the number of people in our auditorium from 600 to 250 to accommodate social distancing, so ticket sales have necessarily been reduced.

It hasn’t been ideal financially, but just to be open again is great.

From the reaction we’ve had our audiences have been

Looking Ahead to 2022

The Property Market is booming...

Changes in lifestyle and a demand for property is ensuring robust prices “It been a very busy year!”says Caroline Leonard of estate agency James Sellicks.

“The relaxation of stamp duty has driven that to some degree but more importantly there’s an ongoing lack of housing stock, at a time when many more people are seeking to move into Rutland and Stamford.

“Because as a country we’ve discovered that we can work from home, there’s fresh demand for property, and greater interest in property even in villages located a bit further

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Having been a casualty of Covid in 2021, The Rutland Show will take place on Sunday 5th June 2022.

The Burghley Horse Trials will take place from Thursday 1st to Sunday 4th Sept 2022.

from train stations, as the ‘daily’ commute by rail might only be a day or two a week of commuting now.

People are also keen to have properties with one or even two studies or space in the garden for a pod they can turn into a home office.”

“The effect is that it’s a seller’s market, with robust prices. We think that Rutland and Stamford’s property prices – and interest in the area – will remain strong for a while.” www.jamessellicks.com

Henry Burgess and Caroline Leonard of James Sellicks, based in Oakham, Market Harborough and Leicester.

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“We all have a part to play in keeping our county and ourselves safe.

The restrictions we have become accustomed to may have been lifted, but we are not heading back to life as we knew it. We will need to continue to work together to carry on saving lives and protecting our communities...”

Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Rutland.

“We’ve taken the next step on the roadmap out of lockdown in England, with most legal restrictions in place to control Covid now removed,” says Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Rutland.

“Cases are still rising, at the time of writing though, and we all have a part to play in making this next step work and keeping our communities safe. I urge everyone to keep on taking care and to remain cautious even as restrictions and legal limits on social contact have been lifted.”

“Communities across Rutland and Stamford have shown incredible determination and resolve throughout the pandemic, to support one another through previous waves, and we have every confidence in all our residents, organisations and businesses to continue to work together and do the right thing.”

“Although 19th July was described as ‘Freedom Day,’ we still need to remember that we still need to continue to be cautious.

However, people should continue to act to reduce the risk of transmission and follow the recommended safety measures.”

“Face coverings will still help to protect you and those around you even though they’re no longer legally required. Wear a face covering wherever you come into contact with people you don’t normally meet and meet in well-ventilated areas where possible, such as outdoors or indoors with windows open.”

Right: Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Rutland.

“Allowing fresh air to circulate indoors while spending time with others, and limiting the number of people you come into contact with, will continue to be effective ways of helping to reduce transmission of the virus.”

“There is still the risk that people who have not been vaccinated become ill and it remains essential that everybody comes forward for both doses of a vaccine.

So if you haven’t already, please make sure you get both doses.”

“And remember, even if you are vaccinated, though, there’s still a chance you can pass Covid on, so you should keep testing regularly.”

“It will be vital that we continue to carry out these safeguards in a responsible way, with regard for ourselves and others, and to limit the increase in infections we can expect to see in the coming weeks and months.”

“The restrictions we have become accustomed to may have been lifted, but we are not heading back to life as we knew it.”

“We will need to continue to work together to carry on saving lives and protecting our communities.” n

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CURVE THEATRE

Ahead of the Curve Together with the hospitality sector, the performing arts industry has had it tougher than almost any other industry when it comes to enduring the pandemic. Thankfully, Curve in Leicester is now open again, as safe as can be and with a brilliant programme of autumn productions...

Words: Rob Davis.

IT’S A VAST SPACE. Over 900 seats worth of giant auditorium, tumbling down toward the stage, a huge place for world-class productions and the best talent in the performing arts sector. At the moment it’s near silent, except for a soft murmur from the ventilation fans.

Later though, as the audience begins to take their seats for that evening’s performance of Grease: The Musical, the hum will be replaced by a cacophony of anticipation, and then as the lights are lowered, by the familiar soundtrack of the musical score with which we’re all so well-acquainted.

“I don’t really like it like this,” says Nikolai Foster showing off the £61m theatre, which opened in 2008 and whose productions are enjoyed by an audience of 750,000 every year at Curve and on tour. “It’s too quiet like this, I much prefer it when there are rehearsals going on, or crews working away on sets, or big audiences and productions taking place.”

It’s been too quiet for too long, and though as an industry the performing arts sector has received support from the government amid Covid, only when shows can resume and auditoriums can again be full will theatres like Leicester’s Curve begin to properly recover and put a dreadful couple of years behind them.

Nikolai says the theatre was his sanctuary from a young age, and his own experiences have made him determined to offer the same emotional, intellectual and cultural home to other young people, and to communities of all ages across Leicestershire, to give them the same opportunities and the same enjoyment he’s enjoyed during his career.

Why does theatre mean so much to you?

I was born in Copenhagen to a Finnish mother and to an English father who was very abusive and violent. As a family we moved back to the UK when I was young, thinking it might make our lives better which, of course, it didn’t.

Living in Yorkshire in quite a working class area, school was quite tough and when I joined the school’s theatre group, it was a sanctuary from home and from school life. It was inclusive and supportive and wonderful.

I joined The Drama Centre in London – now incorporated into Central Saint Martins – and studied alongside Michael Fassbender and Tom Hardy, initially with the intention of becoming an actor. But seeing incredible talent around me, I felt a bit overwhelmed!

So your original career aim was acting?

Another of the theatre’s former students was Sir Anthony Hopkins who (very) allegedly took inspiration for his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter from one of the tutors there. That same tutor would conduct a cull each year, which was always very brutal.

I faced his wrath and was on the cusp of being chucked out when I blurted out that I’d stay and pursue stage management and directing. It saved my skin and I’d already been producing whole plays – writing, directing, getting to grips with stage management and lighting and so on – so I found a new fascination with being behind the scene rather than on the stage.

In fact, when I did find myself on the other side of the curtain again, I realised just how much I loved being involved in productions instead of performing in them.

I’ve never forgotten what a difference theatre has made to my life, and whatever we do here, it’s always with a view to making people feel as included and fulfilled as it first made me feel.

When did you come to Curve?

I joined about seven years ago, having already worked as a freelance director.

Curve is incredibly well-regarded in the sector; it’s well-respected. I work closely with our Chief Executive Chris Stafford and host weekly programming meetings with the team.

For any given week we could host any one of two or three shows, so we’re fortunate to have our pick of a number of productions.

Consequently we’re able to maintain a dynamic, diverse schedule of really high quality productions and pick the cream of what’s available at the time to really push forward and ensure there’s something for everyone here, every season.

But we’re also fortunate to have our Made at Curve team which has a huge breadth of skills and can incubate local talent both on stage and backstage. We have a thriving youth theatre plus Curve Associates to call on too; theatre experts, choreographers of dance, choirs, writers... there are so many people who can infuse our productions with locally-nurtured talent, in addition to our own in-house creatives.

What facilities are there at Curve?

We have our 900-seater auditorium with its proscenium and over 150 flying bars, all computer controlled. That means we can host technically sophisticated show and not have to limit our creativity for practical or logistical reasons. >>

Main: We spoke with Curve’s Creative Director Nikolai Foster about life in the performing arts sector post-Covid, image by Ellie Kurttz.

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CURVE THEATRE

>> There’s a studio too, which can also be configured to host anywhere from 100 in a cabaret-bar configuration to about 400 people in a theatre configuration. We’ve five rehearsal rooms as well, the first two of which can also be used for smaller performances or events. For a large theatre, we also have smaller or more configurable spaces too, so as large as we are, we can also ‘shrink down’ to wrap around events and productions of any scale. In addition, we’ve a recording studio, paint frames for creating sets, and our own costume workshop.

How has Covid effected Curve?

The theatre is owned by the Leicester Theatre Trust, which has about 10 trustees at any one time. About 20% of our income is via The Arts Council England and Leicester City Council, but the remaining 80% is all derived from ticket sales. That means we’ve lost 80% of our income during Covid.

We were grateful of two Cultural Recovery Fund Grants totalling about £1m, and for the Furlough Scheme too, as we employ about 90 full-time members of staff.

It has been heart-breaking, and as we emerge from Covid, our bank balance is still depleted but we’re still here and we’re determined to look after our audiences, host our productions and to get Engaging with over 750,000 theatregoers a year and with a back to normal.

Curve, Theatre, Leicester So, this season?

Well, those familiar with 900-seater main auditorium, Curve Curve will know that the is managed by The Leicester What about the theatre Theatres Trust, supported by building is modern, very industry generally?

Leicester City Council well-ventilated and there’s and Arts Council The performing arts industry is England. room for social distancing when hugely fragmented, consisting of you’re enjoying a pre-show drink or many freelancers and professionals with passing through the foyer. We’ve introduced very niche specialisms which are threaded ‘ticketless ticketing,’ and our new thermal through the industry like a spider’s web. cameras take your temperature as you enter Because of that, there are tens of thousands the theatre so we believe we’re as safe as of small companies that are heaving under possible and able to offer our visitors as the strain of having no work. much peace of mind as we can.

That’s why it’s so important to the industry A stage manager is always health and safety that we can get back into our theatres and aware – it’s part of the job – and they recommence our programme of shows and always have to be super-organised, so those productions. two qualities translate very naturally into creating a safe theatre for our audiences.

It’s also essential for the UK’s cultural industries, beyond the enjoyment that our audiAnd this season’s shows? ences can take from a visit to see one of our We’ve had our pick of the very best shows productions. and September alone has some really

phenomenal performances. Without really meaning to, we’ve created a season which values and reflects a theme of inclusivity, starting with one of Tennessee Williams’ most blazing masterpieces Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

From that point, we thought it was important to inject some colour and fun into the autumn, so we’re hosting Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, which is joyous, iconic and just spectacular.

The fun continues with Everybody’s Talking About Jamie which comes to Curve from the West End as part of its first UK tour.

It’s about overcoming prejudice, stepping out of the darkness… it’s just a feel-good musical that’s upbeat and brilliant.

We’re also welcoming My Night with Reg, which has just made its debut in London and is set in 1985, similar in contrivance to Channel Four’s recent It’s A Sin.

Main: Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Creative Director Nikolai Foster. Image by Pamela Raith.

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September ends with another production so fresh it’s still pre-Broadway in age, but it has already been nominated for multiple Olivier Awards. Six is a musical retelling of the story behind Henry VIII’s six wives, but with an infusion of 21st century girl power ideology.

September at Curve: An exciting month for the theatre...

And looking further ahead?

We’re renowned for our pre-Christmas productions, and this year we’ve been absolutely blessed to have been given permission by the rights holders for a Made at Curve production of A Chorus Line.

Set in the theatres of New York in 1975, it was written and choreographed by Michael Bennett using recordings of testimonies from real Broadway dancers. In a sense it’s a part-autobiographical insight into theatre.

I suppose it’s a love letter to Broadway – and by extension, to theatre itself – which is upbeat, and celebrates in this context the return of theatre’s availability to our cultural lives.

It’ll be one of our flagship productions, similar in scale and production values to 2019’s West Side Story. Made at Curve productions typically involve a cast and crew of a hundred people, and the quality of the productions reflect that. I really don’t believe you’ll see anything better anywhere in the West End. There’s no doubt it’s an important production for us. It represents a return to doing what we love and doing what we do well. Zoom meetings and working remotely are not commensurate with the practicalities or necessary creativity of producing really great shows, and so we’re all very keen to get together again and show audiences just how good Curve, its talent, its creatives and its team members can be.

l Cat on a Hot Tin Roof: This is a bold new revival of Tennessee Williams’ lyrical Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece. A co-production between Leicester Curve, Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, and English Touring Theatre.

Friday 3rd - Sat 18th Sept, tickets £10-£28.

l Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: Glitz, glamour and a singalong soundtrack from It’s Raining Men to I Will Survive and Finally. A camp and joyfully fun antidote to a global pandemic with wigs, heels and glitter aplenty... book now!

Mon 13th Sept - Sat 18th Sept, tickets £10-£45.

l Everybody’s Talking About Jamie: A feel-good West End musical coming to Leicester as part of its first UK tour. Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness in this feel-good hit musical with dazzling choreography.

Mon 20th - Sat 25th Sept, tickets £10-£47.50.

l My Night with Reg: Fresh from its London debut, The Turbine Theatre proudly presents Kevin Elyot’s award-winning comedy My Night with Reg, set in the summer of 1985 amid close friendships, heartache and the AIDS crisis.

Tues 21st Sept - Sat 25th Sept, tickets £10-£35.

Any final thoughts?

Theatre has incredible power. Emotionally, intellectually, and culturally it can be really involving and really bring people together when it is done well. It’s so important to support your local theatre, and to support an industry that can be so positive and can help us all to feel good in a post-pandemic era when nerves are shot.

And that’s why we’re here. Everything we do is about creating a high quality, inclusive and enjoyable experiences for our audiences and for those involved in our productions. n

Photo by Johan Persson.

l Six: A sold out hit in the West End, in Sydney, on the UK Tour, and soon to launch on Broadway and in Chicago, the multi-Olivier Award nominated, international smash hit Six is a retelling of the fate of Henry VIII’s six wives.

Tues 28th Sept - Sun 3rd Oct, tickets £10-£40.

l A Chorus Line: Enjoy a sensational Christmas with a brand-new Made at Curve production of the legendary Broadway musical A Chorus Line, directed by Nikolai Foster. Set in Broadway, in 1975, following auditions for a new hit musical.

Fri 3rd- Fri 31st December, tickets £10-£45.

n To find out more or to book tickets for the above performances, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk. Curve is based on Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1SB.

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On...

KILWORTH

SEPTEMBER

STAMFORD

LIVE AT KILWORTH

THURSDAY 23rd SEPT SATURDAY 25th SEPT

Kilworth Hall Theatre hosts its annual live music festival, with something for everyone across the genres of pop, Broadway theatre and classical music.

CATS BY STAMFORD SHOWSTOPPERS Following their debut sell-out production earlier this year of Chicago at the town’s Corn Exchange. Stamford Showstoppers have the pleasure of bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats! to the stage.

Based on T S Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the eponymous felines introduce themselves to Old Deuteronomy and one by one and we see a glimpse into their lives, their antics and their stories.

n Thursday 2nd September: Some Guys Have All the Luck is a tribute to the music of Rod Stewart from Maggie May to We Are Sailing, and from Baby Jane to You’re in My Heart. n Saturday 4th September: Walk Like a Man takes its inspiration from the Jersey Boys production to celebrate the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons; Walk Like a Man, Big Girls (Don’t Cry) and Sherry.

n 7pm, matinée at 2pm, Saturday, tickets £16, based at Stamford Corn Exchange, PE9 1PX. Call 01780 766455 or see www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

Mamma Mia! It’s ABBA...!

ABBA FANS DELIGHT! IT’S 21ST CENTURY ABBA, ON THE GREEN IN FRONT OF PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL!

n Thursday 9th September: Fascinating Aida is a hilarious cabaret with a trio of slightly older, slightly cheeky performers.

PETERBOROUGH

SUNDAY 29th AUGUST

21ST CENTURY ABBA A superb open-air concert on the green in front of Peterborough Cathedral.

The award-winning live ABBA Tribute Band will be playing all the best songs from your favourite Super Swedes.

This is an evening of hit after hit with songs you know and love from Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Take a Chance on Me, Super Trouper to many, many more. n Gates 6pm, £22/adults.

Peterborough Cathedral, PE1 1XS. Call 01733 355315 or see www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

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n Friday 10th September: Jive Talking celebrates the incomparable Gibb Brothers and their songwriting talents as The Bee Gees. n Sunday 12th September: And rounding off Live at Kilworth is the theatre’s ‘Last Night of the Proms’ event with a programme of our best-loved classical music, including Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and the rousing Land of Hope and Glory courtesy of the British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.

For enquiries, call 01858 881939 or see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.

Kilworth House, LE17 6JE.

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

OAKHAM

WEDNESDAY 1st - SEPT SATURDAY 11th SEPT

MORNING CAMPERS! THE GREAT BRITISH HOLIDAY CAMP

RUTLAND WATER

SEPTEMBER

SWIMMING AND TRIATHLONS AT RUTLAND WATER...

If you’re looking to swim, run or cycle your way to fitness, Rutland is certainly the place to be this month as Swim Rutland hosts its Night Swim on 4th September, with glowsticks, and likeminded folk at Rutland Watersports.

Saturday 11th September, meanwhile, sees The Vitruvian Triathlon (1,900m swim; 84km ride, 21km run) and The Dambuster Triathlon (1,500m swim; 42km cycle; 10km run) around Whitwell Creek.

Finally, the Rutland Marathon and Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 19th Sept. n For more information see www.discover-rutland.co.uk.

A Moment in Whissendine A MOMENT IN TIME, A CHURCH IN WHISSENDINE, A FLOWER FESTIVAL THAT YOU SHOULDN’T MISS!

Hi-de-Hi! 2021 will be the year of staycations, and to recount Great British holidays, Rutland County Museum is hosting a celebration of that unique British institution, the holiday camp. The first holiday camp appeared in 1894 on the Isle of Man; however it was in the 1930s that Billy Butlin launched the concept of the holiday camp at Skegness in a huge way. The popularity of the holiday camp grew rapidly after the Second World War as you’ll find out in Oakham this month. n Rutland County Museum, Catmose Street LE15 6HW. Call 01572 758440 or see rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk.

WHISSENDINE

SATURDAY 28th - AUGUST MONDAY 30th AUGUST

A MOMENT IN TIME: ST ANDREW’S CHURCH FLOWER FESTIVAL What better backdrop could there be for enjoying beautiful floral displays than the setting of Whissendine’s St Andrew’s Church? This Bank Holiday weekend the church will host its flower festival, the 2021 theme of which is ‘A Moment in Time.’

Entry to the church is free, though donations to help maintain the fabric of the

PETERBOROUGH

SATURDAY 11th SUNDAY 12th SEPT

THE LAND ROVER OWNER SHOW Leather-lined and posh or rugged and stripped out, perfectly polished or covered is mud, whatever the look of your Landy, you’ll be in 4x4 heaven at the Land Rover Owner Show at The East of England Showground this month. n Tickets £16/day, from 9am, call 01733 363500 or see www.lroshow.com.

building are welcome, and of course, as well as admiring the displays themselves, visitors will doubtless enjoy taking a moment (in time) to contemplate the past year and give thanks for continued health and freedom.

Refreshments are available, too, in the Village Hall.

St Andrew’s dates back from the 13th century, and serves a village of around 1,200 people.

Its spire is 100ft tall and the building enjoyed a Victorian renovation by Sir Gilbert Scott. n For more information call 01572 724007 or see oakhamteam.org.uk/whissendine.

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Truly Independent Financial Planning • Efficient Portfolio’s Charlie Reading • Author of The Dream Retirement

Setting Your Kids Up for Success I am a firm believer that schools should be educating children on the real ‘truths’ of life: why it’s important to save money, how to afford your first home and how to reduce the risk you take with your money. But if schools are only just starting to adopt this style of education, should you be setting your kids up for success yourself?

B

Digital Resources The sooner your children actually start using banking apps or accounts, the more they will understand how money works. There are plenty of free online resources, such as games that teach children about money and some banks now run live virtual workshops, geared specifically towards children under the age of 16.

Y TEACHING YOUR KIDS HOW TO MANAGE THEIR MONEY NOW, you will be giving them a valuable gift. Learning how to budget, save and ultimately grow their money now, will set them up for future financial security (and could mean that ‘the Bank of Mum of Dad’ could become a concept relegated to the history books!).

Understanding Commitments In adult life we all understand that we have to pay our mortgages, utility bills, tax bills and various other ‘non-negotiables’; however, it can be a shock for our kids when they first move out and suddenly receive a Council Tax Bill or unexpected charge for water. The key here is to be open and transparent with your children about what bills, and costs come out of your bank every month, so that they can understand, ideally from a young age, how much things cost and why it’s so important to set aside money for essentials.

Settings Goals Money is important in terms of paying for essentials such as food, shelter and heat, but it can also be fun and rewarding too. Encourage your children to sit down and think about something that they really want- whether that’s a new toy, a trip or even their own freedom in the shape of their first flat. Using a visual chart, that tracks amount saved and time to go until they reach their goal, will help to keep them motivated and excited about the reward they are getting closer to each day.

Rewards and Penalties It is important that your children understand that their hard work, or lack of, can result in either a reward or a penalty. You can achieve this by giving your children pocket money for chores that they do around the home, so that the harder they work,

Efficient Portfolio also have our own free resource called ‘SMART Money’. Written for those just starting out in their financial journey the book empowers people to become free enough to stop work and live out their hopes and dreams. You can download your free copy here: www.efficientportfolio.co.uk/smart/ Educating your children about money is crucial to their overall financial security and future success, so the sooner you start, the better off they will be.

your children “ Educating about money is crucial to their overall financial security and future success, so the sooner you start, the better off they will be ...

”

the more they can earn. If you really wanted to teach your children a valuable life lesson, you could even ‘dock’ their pocket money for substandard work, but equally it’s important not to demotivate them too much! You could also consider giving your children an ‘earnings statement’ each week, so they can see how their help has paid off, instilling a huge sense of achievement.

Charlie Reading created Efficient Portfolio to offer entirely independent financial advice and helping people clarify and realise their dreams and goals through financial planning.

Call 01572 898060, see www.efficientportfolio.co.uk or visit Portfolian House, 30 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY

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OAKHAM’S MAYOR, ZOE NEALSON

A BUSY YEAR for

OAKHAM’S MAYOR It’s been an odd time to be elected Mayor, with Zoom meetings and fewer events making local democracy less visible. Happily, post-Covid, Zoe Nealson is looking forward to getting out and about to make a difference to the town and inspire young people to become involved in shaping the town’s future...

Images: Rob Davis.

Tell us about growing up in Rutland...

I was born in Aldershot in 1982. My dad was in the Coldstream Guards so we moved around frequently when I was young.

My mum grew up in Oakham and had a large family living here, so after my dad passed away, my mum bought a house opposite her parents’ house and moved my sister and I here in 1989. I was then raised in Oakham surrounded by family until I left for university in Birmingham at 18.

After I graduated, I stayed in Birmingham and worked in HR and training for charities and local government until I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2012. At this point I was medically retired and returned to Oakham which I have always thought of as home. I now live here very happily with my wife and our three young children.

What led you to join the Council?

I joined Oakham Town Council in 2018.

I had been looking for a way to give back to the town and community that I love, when a chance encounter with an old school friend made me realise that Oakham Town Council was the place to do this. There was a current vacancy that the council were co-opting on to, and so I applied and was accepted.

Having MS means that there are days where I really struggle, MS is a neurological

condition affecting the brain and spinal cord and so it can cause problems in any part of the body. I have mobility issues and these can be exacerbated by heat, infection or stress.

MS is progressive and I am aware this means as I get older its possible I will be wheelchair bound or suffer sight loss or motor function deterioration, this is why I am so grateful to have this opportunity now while my condition is stable and manageable. Being a town councillor has given me a sense of purpose and I am driven to perform well in my mayoral year. I really care about Oakham and its people and want to make a positive contribution while I can.

The role is essentially split in to two parts.

In one half, you are the chairman of the council, leading meetings and working closely with the town clerk to ensure accountability and efficiency within the council.

The other half is being ‘The Mayor,’ this is a sort of ceremonial/ambassadorial side which allows you to represent the town at various levels both within Oakham at concerts and events and in other towns.

What’s the role of the town council?

Town and Parish councils have the same powers and act within the same legislation, the only difference is that a town council has an elected mayor and covers a larger area.

What does the role of Mayor involve?

One of my priorities this year is to build a stronger relationship with Rutland County Council. However, I think its important for Oakham to have a separate council as we can then focus directly on positives and improvements that can benefit the town.

I was seconded and won the ensuing vote eight to three and I was pleased to discover that the other members of the council had so much faith in me.

Oakham Town Council is directly responsible for maintaining several of the open spaces in Oakham. These are Cutts Close Park, Royce’s Recreation Ground, Willow Crescent Playground and Centenary Field.

To be elected Mayor you have to receive a nomination from within council at the Annual General Meeting. I was extremely honoured to receive a nomination from Dave Romney, the outgoing Mayor.

When I first joined the council I hadn’t considered becoming Mayor but I quickly realised it was an opportunity that would allow me to represent my home town in a proactive way.

We organise events like the summer concerts in Cutts Close and we are always open to hearing about community initiatives that we may be able to support. >>

Main: It’s been a busy year for Zoe, marrying Rachel during lockdown and becoming Mayor of Oakham in May. Here she talks about her career, family and her beloved town.

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OAKHAM’S MAYOR ZOE NEALSON

>> Do people have a deep enough understanding of how local government works and how decisions are made?

I don’t think it’s always easy to understand the different levels of local government and how they work together, often decisions that are made at county level are blamed on the town or parish and vice versa.

Tools like social media are helping to make decisions more visible to everyone. My hope is that regular updates on Facebook and in local press, combined with questions being answered, will make local governance more transparent and accessible to the local community. I do think it is the responsibility of all councils to reach out to their constituents and help inform and signpost everyone.

You’re keen to see younger people becoming more involved in local government.. why?

I probably don’t fit the stereotype people envision when they hear the word ‘Mayor.’

I am both disabled and lesbian. I am hoping that seeing me in this role will encourage a more diverse community to engage in local politics, Oakham Town Council is a welcoming and positive environment.

Myself and Mrs Mayor are hoping with Covid restrictions being lifted we will be able to speak to Catmose College and spend some time with students talking about how they can get involved and steer their local councils and communities. I try to spend as much time in the community as possible speaking to people directly and telling them how much I get out of the council and how passionate I am about driving Oakham forward.

I also have a genuine belief in the young people of this town. Our eldest daughter, Annabel, couldn’t wait to tell her friends at school that I had been elected Mayor and she came home bursting with ideas for fundraising and community projects that they would like to see happening.

What projects or activities is the council involved in for short term gains?

Oakham Town Council is currently undertaking several projects, these include renovating an the shelter at Cutts Close Park to provide the community with a building that can be used by several groups and working alongside other interested parties to

identify an appropriate site and build a skate park. The business working group within the council is supporting local businesses by creating a network and providing networking, we have also offered stalls free of charge to businesses and community groups at our first summer concert in Cutts Close.

The summer concerts were delayed due to Covid restrictions, however we were able to plan a two day event in July; The Life Reloaded Festival. We hope to continue the concerts in September, weather permitting.

What opportunities are there for Oakham post-pandemic?

Coming out of the pandemic there appears to be a real appetite in the community and within both Oakham Town Council and Rutland County Council to work on a long-term vision for the town. We all know that the way we live has been changing for a long time and lockdown has expedited this process.

“I love Oakham town centre.

It is pretty and accessible with unique shops and some incredible eateries...”

There are more people working from home and more people shopping online. Oakham needs to reflect this and adapt to new markets and offer new approaches in catering for the community. This is more evident on our high street than anywhere else. I love Oakham town centre. It is pretty and accessible with unique shops and some incredible eateries.

I believe we need to focus on our streets becoming an ‘experience’ and to encourage in new businesses and markets that can make Oakham a real destination.

While I can already see the organic growth of these businesses – the recent and forthcoming additions to the town are exciting – I do think both councils have a role to play both in encouraging the right businesses in the right properties, ensuring visual standards are met throughout the town and looking

carefully at possible infrastructure changes that may increase foot traffic around town.

I am really keen to see Oakham thrive as market town. We have recently underwritten our support as Oakham Town Council for the town’s craft market on Gaol Street and I am really hoping the market schedule can be added to and enhanced over the next year.

Are there elements of Oakham’s development which concern you?

Oakham is growing quite quickly, and I appreciate there is a lot of frustration within the community about this. I feel quite strongly that the infrastructure of the town needs to be kept in line with these developments.

The town council only has an advisory role on planning applications but as a member of the public I am keen to see a focus on Oakham remaining a small town while providing necessary extra housing and businesses.

I am passionate about Oakham’s local businesses and this informs my approach to the town’s growth. I was the only councillor to vote against McDonalds when that came through town council and – on a personal level – I would prefer to keep new developments, whether business or residential, in keeping with the town’s current look and styling. I am very excited about the potential of an independent cinema and the new restaurant and wine bar due to open in town.

It’s important that we grow and change as a town but that should always be with a keen eye on ‘improvement’ rather than simply a financial decision.

You married Rachel earlier this year and have three children together, as a family what do you want from Oakham as a community and how will you lead the town to achieve that?

We love the community of Oakham. As a family under the LGBTQ+ umbrella we have felt a strong sense of inclusion within the town and from the people here and we hope that other families and individuals get that same experience. We want to continue being active members of the community, attending and participating in local events and being a part of something that is always growing and improving. When problems are identified we hope we can all work together to create solutions. n

Find Out More: Zoe and her wife Rachel are Mayor and Mrs Mayor of the town for 2021/2022. For more information on Oakham Town Council and its role in local democracy, see www.oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk.

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Lifestyle & Interiors now have a new home in Stamford.

Come and visit us soon!

Visit us in our new studio and retail space at

33 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS 01780 754605 • www.hworksdesign.co.uk

IN TE RI OR DE SI G N • C URTAIN S , BLINDS , S OF T F URNI SHIN G S • UPH OL STE RY • LIFE ST YLE

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Schools & Colleges Here, we profile some of the best independent schools and colleges, across Stamford and Rutland, offering the very best education the region has to offer...

Words: Rob Davis.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Laxton Junior School

“Kindness is everywhere you look at LJS...”

Laxton Junior School, (LJS) is an incredibly happy school that knows children learn best when they feel cared for, secure and valued as an individual. From the moment children join in Reception, staff develop an in-depth knowledge of each individual child. “Young minds don’t think in straight lines and children learn at different speeds, so our teachers don’t adhere to a pre-determined plan” says Sam Robertson, Head of LJS. Through creative and responsive teaching, children are able to learn at different rates and in different ways, all within the same class.

“Our children feel secure in both themselves and their environment; they are confident enough to ask questions and to challenge the status quo, whilst resilient enough to accept that getting things 40

wrong is an important part of learning and developing”.

There is a great deal of pride that, despite LJS being non-selective, 95% of pupils progress to Oundle School after Year 6 and those who choose to continue their education elsewhere are supported to progress to a range of local independent and state grammar schools.

For Sam Robertson, success isn’t just about results however, it is about nurturing a sense of community and the inherent kindness that should run through it: “Kindness is everywhere you look at LJS and every day I see little acts of kindness shown by our children which make me proud.” n To find out more about Laxton Junior School, please visit www.laxtonjunior.org.uk, call 01832 277275 or email admissions@laxtonjunior.org.uk.

Bourne Grammar School “An ‘Outstanding’ school, says Ofsted...”

Bourne Grammar School, is a mixed selective School with a large Sixth Form offering academic A-Levels.

The School is rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and in the last decade it has expanded rapidly. There are now over 1,600 students on roll, including over 400 in the Sixth Form.

This growth in student numbers has been matched by the development of the site; recent years have seen the opening of a number of impressive, well-appointed buildings including a new £4m Science Block.

The School attaches great importance to the pursuit of academic excellence. It has a tradition of hard work, respect for achievement and outstanding pastoral support for all.

Public examination results, at all levels, are also outstanding.

The school seeks to provide an ethos which encourages in its students an attitude of hard work and consideration for others. It is Bourne Grammar School’s intention that former students will reflect on their time at the School as being intellectually stimulating, personally challenging, and rewarding. The academic curriculum, is enhanced by the many extra-curricular activities on offer in the areas of sport, music, drama, dance and art.

There are also many different clubs and societies run at lunch and after school.

In addition, trips and visits to concerts, plays, art galleries and other events and places are offered, both in this country and abroad. n For details of how to attend a tour around the school, see www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk or call 01778 422 288.

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Brooke Priory School

“We’re encouraged to be the best we can be…”

Established in 1989, Brooke Priory is an independent co-educational Preparatory School based in Oakham.

Brooke Priory creates a unique environment where childhood is cherished and children are encouraged ‘to be the best they can be.’ Family pervades all we do within the school by valuing hard work and ensuring each day is special for every child.

high profile at Brooke Priory, we offer a full and varied list developing a lifelong love of competitive sport. We have a thriving music and creative arts department, mindfulness activities and an unrivalled extra-curricular programme.

We encourage a healthy mind and body promoting nutritious snacks and outdoor countryside pursuits via ‘Welly Days.’

We teach children to become independent, reflective learners.

We foster excellent relationships with our pupils who succeed and thrive in an environment of mutual respect. Our small class sizes promote a supportive culture in the classroom and whilst children remain competitive, they also celebrate and encourage each other’s success.

We recognise that some children will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. Children perform better if their emotional needs are addressed, we have an ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) programme and we also have our Emotional Support dog Elsie!

Whilst academic distinctions are always a priority we focus on the ‘whole child’ in all aspects of school life. Sport is

n To find out more or to request a prospectus, contact Admissions on 01572 724778 or email:

communications@ brooke.rutland.sch.uk, www.brooke.rutland.sch.uk.

Brooke Hill Academy Trust “Education for three to 11 year olds...”

In September 2013 a group of local school committed to the highest standards of education formed the Brooke Hill Academy Trust Multi Academy Trust, with Edith Weston Academy.

This successful collaboration benefits both schools as we are able to offer a richer curriculum and opportunities for pupils including shared resources, a comprehensive gifted and talented programme, a broad extra- curricular activity timetable and staff expertise.

edge of the picturesque market town of Oakham, in the heart of England.

Located next to a woodland, we are proud of our Forest School status and commitment to outdoor learning and use the local environment, including Rutland Water, as much as possible to enrich teaching and learning throughout the school.

At Brooke Hill Academy we provide an all-round education, offering opportunities for children to develop academic, social, sporting and creative skills in a caring and supportive environment.

Our modern, free flow environment is well-equipped and supports all learning styles.

We also have a separate, purpose built nursery on site as well as playgrounds equipped for all age groups, a trim trail, quiet garden area and an astroturf pitch for outdoor sports as well as an allotment area.

We inspire all children to reach their full potential. Our school has an idyllic setting, on the

n To find out more about Brooke Hill Academy, call 01572 724 214 or see www.brookehillacademy.com.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Oakham School, Oakham “Rutland’s vibrant co-educational school...”

Oakham School is a vibrant, fully co-educational boarding and day school for 10 –18 year olds. Our key strengths lie in the spectacularly wide range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities that we provide and a caring and balanced school community.

Whilst academic excellence lies at the heart of everything we do, our focus goes far beyond just encouraging our students to achieve outstanding results in their examinations.

Our genuinely holistic approach to education means that pupils leave Oakham as intellectually ambitious thinkers, who are effective and independent learners, well equipped with the skills and habits of mind to thrive in tomorrow’s world. Over many years, the School has also been recognised nationally for its outstanding achievements in 44

sport, music, drama and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme.

Our House structure ensures we nurture all aspects of our pupils’ well-being during every stage of their Oakham journey.

Pupils are surrounded by staff who are expertly trained to support their needs, who challenge them to become independent, thoughtful and responsible young adults.

The School’s location close to Rutland Water, in the picturesque town of Oakham, means our pupils and staff enjoy the safety of living and working in a beautifully green campus just a few minutes’ walk from its historic town centre and amenities. n A series of Open Events are being held in September and October.

For more information and to book a place, contact Admissions on 01572 758758 or find out more at oakham.rutland.sch.uk

Stamford Endowed Schools “Steeped in a 488 year history in Stamford...”

Nestled within the heart of Stamford are the Stamford Endowed Schools, day and boarding schools for boys and girls, 2-18. Whilst steeped in history, everything the Schools do is firmly focused on preparing young people to lead happy and fulfilling lives in the 21st century.

The Schools operate a ‘diamond’ model – blending single-sex and co-education from ages 2-18. It’s the best of both worlds: co-education in the formative years, 2-11, and at Sixth Form, when sharing ideas is so fruitful; and single-sex learning environments with tailored care and support during the crucial 11-16 stage.

The Schools take pride in developing active, engaged, and independent learners.

From their first days in the Nursery, children are taught to learn from experience, form

good habits of mind and understand how to make informed choices, through independent learning programmes appropriate for their developmental age.

Children aren’t pigeon-holed; the Schools channel enthusiasm into an enquiring mind and inspire confidence to follow their interests independently.

Pastoral care is given the highest priority; valuing and supporting each student’s individuality, encouraging personal resilience, and equipping children with a toolkit to lead a healthy life.

Children leave the Schools a Stamfordian; happy, socially responsible, with potential filled, inner belief, a clear sense of self, skills for life and the right qualifications for their next steps, whatever they may be. n Visit www.stamfordschools.org.uk, or call the Admissions Team on 01780 750311.

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Stamford Welland Academy “Committed to the quality of our education...”

Stamford Welland Academy is a rapidly growing and successful secondary school and is part of Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT).

At Stamford Welland Academy, every child is known, valued and supported to achieve above and beyond their potential. We combine the best educational practices in our taught curriculum, with the character-building opportunities afforded in our parallel curriculum, to develop our young people and prepare them for the future and life beyond Stamford.

We pride ourselves on educating the ‘whole child’ and ensuring each of our pupils are ready to succeed in a world beyond Stamford.

SWA has gone from strength to strength in recent years and

has benefitted from significant financial investment from CMAT and Lincolnshire Local Authority. This will see a programme of expansion and building works over the coming years to accommodate the ever-expanding number of students on roll.

Aspiration is one of our school values and we instill this in all our students in everything they do. Visitors to our school always comment on how warm and welcoming the school is, and this view is replicated by students, staff and parents.

Our pastoral care is second to none, and the wellbeing of our students and staff is at the heart of all that we do. n Stamford Welland Academy will host an Open Evening event on 28th September from 5pm-7pm.

For more information visit www.stamfordwellandacademy.org or call 01780 761000.

Suthers School

“Providing an inspiring education, for life...”

The Suthers School is Newark’s newest secondary school, which was established in 2017 by the area’s Nova Education Trust.

The school is based in a brand new, purpose-built, state-ofthe-art building at Fernwood, just south of Newark.

The building was completed in the summer of 2020 with pupils moving in for the start of the new academic year.

The school’s uniquely character-centred approach means that personal development is ranked alongside academic preparation and through its extended day the school guarantees access to a broad range of enrichment opportunities.

“The Suthers School has at its heart the absolute conviction that young people deserve an

education that excites and enthuses,” says Head of School, Andrew Pettit.

“Our ‘work hard, be kind’ philosophy, together with our unique approach to character development means that there is something very special about The Suthers School.

In short, we aim to deliver a highly academic, enriching curriculum and to empower the young people of Newark to do more than they ever thought possible.”

We will be holding Open Events in the autumn term.

To find out more or if you would like to arrange a visit to the school, please explore our website or get in touch. n For further information about The Suthers School and to register your interest, visit www.suthersschool.co.uk or call 01636 957690.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Putting Clients First Personal planning and advice tailored to your circumstances are hallmarks of BCM Wealth Management.

Offering a range of investment, pension and mortage services, Jamie Gibson and the team have seen many clients’ circumstances change over the past year and discusses the implications for their retirement...

Words: Rob Davis.

THINGS CHANGE. It’s a fact of life. And during the last years, the five-strong team at BCM Wealth Management has seen for themselves the ripple effect that Covid has had on the aspirations, plans and circumstances of many of their 400 or so clients.

Jamie Gibson is one of the five-strong team which offers advice on pensions, investments and mortgages.

What types of pension are there?

“The introduction of workplace pensions has seen them increase in numbers, and they will become almost as ubiquitous as personal pensions. Other types of pensions include final salary, government-sponsored and deferred benefit plans, SIPS and SAS-based arrangements. Each have their pros and cons, and each necessitates the same individual advice that we’ve already advocated.

Something else to consider is that you may have separate and disparate pensions.”

“It’s been an unprecedented time, and one that’s caused us all to evaluate our lives,” says Jamie. “We’ve actually been really busy during the last year as people have a taste of working from home, or they wonder if they can work only a couple of days a week once things return to normal.”

“Some have had an insight into life as a retiree during lockdown, and they’ve loved it. Others, though, have realised they really enjoy working and want to extend their working lives a little further.”

“For both practical and emotional reasons, many have reevaluated their circumstances and have come to reconsider what retirement will mean for them.”

“Still the same questions come up, because surprisingly, though most people will retire at some point, many people don’t know how to retire, or at least have questions as to how to go about making the transition from working to retirement.”

What age should I consider pensions?

“Typically people start to think about pensions in their 40s. That’s not too late, but it’s never too early either.

What does flexibility mean in this context?

Where possible we encourage people to consider their pensions from their 20s or 30s.”

“Everyone’s circumstances and aspirations are different, but the more time we have to help them plan, the more advantageous that will be.”

How much should I put away?

“Sadly there’s no easy answer to that, since your retirement plans, your income, your age and many other aspects of your life will effect the answer.”

“We represent about 400 clients or businesses from sole traders to large companies, each of whom are at different stages of their lives.”

“We’re proud that each person has received advice tailored to their circumstances and receives one-to-one advice with annual reviews to ensure our advice can evolve as their circumstances and goals change.”

“Pensions used to be quite inflexible, but with changes to rules about five years ago, the option to draw down lump sums in a tax-efficient way or to take ad hoc sums from your pension provide a number of options depending on your needs.”

“Some of our clients actually want to preserve their funds to pass on to beneficiaries, whereas others want to use their funds to allow them to travel abroad, move house or improve their homes.”

Are there any other considerations?

“Aside from the fact that everyone’s circumstances are different, and that personal advice is essential, BCM Wealth Management doesn’t just consider pensions in isolation, but with an overall ‘holistic’ approach, offering a range of products, with advice that changes at all different stages of your life.”

“We are also part of St. James’s Place Wealth Management, which gives us an advantage when it comes to reliability and helps us to remain focused on our clients.” n

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances. BCM Wealth Management Ltd is an appointed representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and service, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

BCM Wealth Management is based on Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Call 01780 437500.

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DINING OUT AT THE CROWN, UPPINGHAM

Talented is the head that wears

THE CROWN According to Shakespeare, uneasy is the head that wear the crown... maybe not uneasy, but Laura Totten is certainly busy and has had one of the most frustrating starts to her new business venture, The Crown in Uppingham, which opened just as the pandemic took hold. Good news though; the place is now open for business and it’s very much worth a visit!

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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YOU’VE HEARD of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, right? Well, Laura Totten was in the perfect place... but she was there very much at the most frustrating time.

chance to enjoy the warm welcome, good food and great environment that The Crown provides, before the start of lockdown and restrictions.

Laura fell into – and fell in love with – the hospitality industry whilst working in pubs during her university study. She joined Everards and had an enjoyable career before becoming licensee of the pretty pub she’d coveted in Uppingham, The Crown, backed by the brewery.

Bad timing must be catching because our first visit to The Crown saw us singing its praises just before lockdown two. Our return visit, though, was on July 19th – Freedom Day – and touching wood, that means that whilst the virus is still kicking around, pubs,

Renovating The Crown in May 2020, and reopening it in July of that year Laura had a breadth of knowledge, expertise, a great team and a flair for the design of her revamped interiors and fresh new menus.

Having opened for just 12 weeks in the last 12 months, locals have scarcely had the

OPEN FOR FOOD Breakfast: 8am-11.30pm, seven days.

Main Menu: 11.30am-9pm, seven days.

Sunday: 12noon - 4pm.

restaurants and other businesses will be open without restrictions for customers to enjoy once again. So, if you’re venturing out into a brave new world, post-pandemic, we reckon that The Crown should be the first place you visit, not least because of Laura’s hospitality philosophy.

“Uppingham had fish ‘n’ chips and fine dining, but nothing in between,” she says.

“It needed a place that offered great food, well-kept real ale and smart rooms.”

“It also needed to be family friendly so parents could pick up their children from Uppingham School or the area’s other schools and take them out for a meal.”

A fresh reopening at The Crown also brought with it a new chef, and a revamped menu offering homemade menus with flatbreads, pizzas and tapas. >> 51

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DINING OUT AT THE CROWN UPPINGHAM

on the MENU Crown Specials Buratta salad with heritage tomatoes, croutons and basil oil dressing £7.25.

Lamb and mint kofta flatbread on a bed of baby leaves with garlic and herb mayo and red chillies £10.75.

Albondigas; Spanish beef and pork meatballs served in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce £6.95.

Tapas Gambas al Ajillo, king prawn in a chilli and garlic sauce £6.95.

Calamari coated in panko with harissa spiced yoghurt dip £6.95.

Side dishes; mixed olives, harissa hummus, tzatziki and garlic alioli, £1/each.

Pizzas Margherita, with fior di latte mozzarella and fresh basil £8.95.

Rutland Red, manchego and Long Clawson Blue £9.95.

Siciliano, with pepperoni and serrano ham £11.95.

Diavolo, with nduja sausage, chorizo, roquito peppers and green chillis £11.95.

The Crown, High St East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk NB: All menu items are subject to change.

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>> The Crown is a typically Uppingham-esque ironstone building, built in the 1570s and carrying a Grade II listing.

During our visit, temperatures soared and sunlight streamed through the windows of the pub restaurant. It was a rubbish day to decorate, but nevertheless Laura was in the middle of refurbishing three rooms on the first floor, having already completed the refurbishment of the three rooms on the second floor with their exposed beams, luxurious linens and floral or chinoiseriethemed wallpapers.

As Pride is published though, we’ll be moving into the autumn months and for The Crown’s customers, that means a brand new menu and the chance to dine either in the comfortable bar with its wood burning stove,

or in the dedicated 20-seat dining room at the rear of The Crown, which Laura says will remain socially distanced for diners who prefer to remain a little more cautious when it comes to post-Covid dining.

“One of the nice things about our menu is that it gives us the chance to use lots of local ingredients,” says Laura. “We’re lucky to have Uppingham Fine Foods just across the road from us and the weekly market on a Friday is a lovely place to purchase fruit and veg.”

“We’re already looking at partnering with local artisan farms to source our meat and developing other relationships with local suppliers. Good food doesn’t need to be fussy, but when good ingredients are at the heart of a dish, it’s usually easy to create something that customers will enjoy, and

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“Our future plans include creating a really good Sunday lunch menu and we’re planning to host Sunday Sessions with nice mellow acoustic music performed live that families can enjoy...” if those ingredients are local, it helps to support other companies in the area too.”

“We’ve been running a slightly simpler menu for the past year but there’s a huge sense of optimism among the team for when the full menu re-commences. Our future plans include creating a really good Sunday lunch menu and also hosting ‘pop-up’ kitchen takeovers with guest chefs. We’re also planning to host Sunday Sessions – to be announced with our other news on our Facebook page and on our website – with nice mellow acoustic music performed live so

families with kids can enjoy it too. My own kids are 13 and 15, so it’s really important to me that the whole family can spend quality time together without having to compromise on the quality of the food.

A children’s menu with junk food on it is never something we’d create.”

For now, The Crown feels like Uppingham’s best kept secret, but now the country is open, we feel it’s quickly gain popularity.

Great quality food, inclusivity and a smart setting means it’ll very soon be one of the best places in the town to enjoy a meal. n

MEET THE CHEF ADAM DREW-BATTY

The Crown’s new Head Chef Adam Drew-Batty fell in love with the town of Uppingham when he arrived to work at Uppingham School.

His previous jobs have seen him catering for VIPs at Cheltenham, Ascot and at the Emirates stadium! n 53

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For reservations call 01572 822302 info@crownuppingham.co.uk The Crown, 19 High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY

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We’re cooking up something really quite special...

Pride Magazines is now working on our 2021 Good Food Awards...

If you’re a restaurant, pub, coffee shop, bistro, or a local food producer, call 01529 469977 to find out how you can market your business to our readers.

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Wine of the Month

Leicestershire’s new pudding-inspired gin’s perfect pairing

Carpe Diem Pinot Noir, California 2017

What could be better than the taste of rhubarb and custard?

How about the two used in a brand new artisan gin?

£34 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV Seize the day with this autumn superstar. Carpe Diem Pinot Noir is made in Northern California’s Anderson Valley.

It’s made over the Rutland border, true, but we’ll overlook that because The Bond Street Distillery’s Rhubarb & Custard gin is deliciously distilled and combines the flavours of this pudding-course favourite with the tangy zest of fresh rhubarb and the creamy vanilla notes of custard.

Invigorating and exciting, this is the ideal gin for both gin lovers and novices alike. n

Over the years, this region has gained the reputation of an ideal terroir to grow Pinot Noir for still wines.

£35 / 70cl / 37.5% ABV, www.thebondstreetdistillery.co.uk

The Wine Cellar THIS MONTH WE’VE A LOCAL ARTISAN GIN IN THE KEY OF JUNIPER, A TRIO OF EXCEPTIONAL ORGANIC WINES PLUS A LIGHT AUTUMN RED THAT’S SURE TO SATISFY...

ORGANIC WINES: With sales rising by 47% year, organic wine is worth a try...!

1. A quintessential Cab Sav wine from Chile that’s both vegan and organic. Lovely blackcurrant richness plus juicy full-bodied glassfuls of beautifully floral tannins, £9.49 / 75cl / 13.5% ABV.

2. A rosé wine from our own shores, using Pinot Noir grapes to yield a deliciously crisp wine with a subtle blush. Produced in Sussex, it features hints of strawberries, redcurrants and raspberries, £16.99 / 75cl / 12% ABV. 3. Vegan, organic and a first class wine enjoying the best terroir that Alsace has to offer.

This Pinot Gris has medium dry characteristics with a lime and sherbet minerality, £24.99 / 75cl / 13% ABV.

Blackberry and plum dominate the aromas with added notes of cherry stem and forest floor. Ripe cherry and rustic flavours of leather and mushroom are broad and mouth-filling on the palate. Texture is balanced, lean and focused with forward tannins. Available from good independent wine merchants. n

Elderflower gin for true refreshment...

If there’s a fresher taste of late summer and early autumn, we’ve yet to experience it. Local distillery Warners have created this deliciously vibrant and refreshing elderflower gin which features elderflower, orange and lemon peel and myriad other botanicals. It has won a slew of awards in a host of international spirit competitions, and it’s a cracking tipple with mint and a nice Mediterranean tonic. £34 / 75cl / 40% ABV, warnersdistillery.com.

n Our featured wines are available from

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

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HOMES & INTERIORS

PICTURE

PERFECT As the saying goes, a picture paints a thousand words, so this month we’re inclined to let the stunning images of The Old Rectory at Creeton, eight miles North of Stamford, do the talking...

Words: Rob Davis.

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IF THIS ISN’T one of the prettiest properties you’ve ever seen, we’d be surprised. For anyone seeking a beautiful rural property it’s holding all the cards; a rural location in a sleepy hamlet between Grantham and Stamford, it’s adjacent to the Church of St Peter, gracefully presented, with a Grade II listing and a couple of acres of mature, verdant grounds.

Built of limestone with a Collyweston slate roof, it was built circa 1750. The Victorian front provides wonderful views to the west and was added in 1850, with an imposing gothic look, with stone mullion windows and gargoyles that complement the church.

Further additions were added through the twentieth century to create a very substantial property indeed.

Main/Right: The property has five reception rooms and seven bedrooms, arranged over three floors.

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For all its modern appeal though, The Old Rectory is also ideal for modern living, not least because of its annex, refurbished in 2004. It has been equipped with all the mod cons for home-workers, such as a studio room with fast broadband. If you’re seeking to escape a regular commute into London, there’s probably no better place to work than this leafy peace of heavenly England.

The property’s transformation into its Pugin-esque Victorian gothic style has yielded dramatic architecture, and inside there is a beautiful mix of Georgian and Victorian features.

There are five reception rooms too, currently arranged as a sitting room, a reception room adjoining the music room and library, plus a garden room and formal dining room as well as a spacious living

“It’s all beautifully rustic, and a proper country kitchen in which committed cooks can create a Sunday lunch...” kitchen, one of those all purpose spaces in which a family can cook, dine, socialise and supervise children as they labour over their homework.

The kitchen features bespoke cabinetry and freestanding units, with a large refectory table and a cream Aga, as well as a Butler sink, timber work surfaces and stripped pine floors.

It’s all beautifully rustic, and constitutes a proper country kitchen for committed cooks keen to, for instance, make the most of the orchard’s apples to create an apple crumble, rounding off a nice Sunday lunch.

Older properties have glorious amounts of storage space too, and The Old Rectory is no exception, with its two cellars, utility room and pantry as well as a housekeeper’s cupboard next to the cloakroom.

Most of the rooms are spread over two floors, downstairs these are well proportioned, possessing high ceilings and original features such as working fireplaces, tall sash windows with internal shutters and window seats, picture rails and stone and timber floors.

The property also exudes warmth and a homeliness, indeed it has been a truly wonderful family home for the owners for the last twenty seven years.

The house has been well maintained and it should be noted the slate roof has been completely overhauled and is in exceptionally good order. >> 61

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>> On the first floor and second floors, the storage continues with seven bedroom and three bathrooms plus dressing rooms and built-in wardrobes.

Hidden away, The Old Rectory is approached up a no-through lane that leads to the church behind, and it’s a wonderfully private location that affords peace and quiet when you’re enjoying the beautiful garden that gently dips down the hillside.

It provides glorious views of the surrounding countryside and the garden is a delightful mix of formality with a simple, naturalistic flavour, having been almost entirely created by the current owners. Neatly clipped yew hedges are topped with carefully sculpted topiary contrasting beautifully with mown paths that attract abundant birds and butterflies.

Above: How does your garden grow? Hopefully in as verdant and well-established a maner as this!

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The crystal-clear waters of the natural swimming pond have been enjoyed by the family not only in summer but by hardy members throughout winter too!

All the flower beds and many indigenous trees were planted by the current owners, and are now well established and mature.

Elsewhere the property features a vegetable garden, orchard, tennis court and there are a further 13 acres available too, available to rent from the adjacent Grimsthorpe Estate, should you wish to keep horses or pursue your own smallholding, for example.

The look and feel of the property is phenomenal, but with just over two acres of gardens and with a versatile layout, The Old Rectory will also afford its next owners the chance to adapt the house to suit their own lifestyle. No doubt though, it’ll remain one of the most desirable and beautifully presented properties in the area. n

THE OLD RECTORY, CREETON, BOURNE Location: Creeton; Stamford eight miles, Bourne five miles.

Style: Substantial stone-built Grade II listed former rectory with five reception rooms and seven bedrooms. Swimming pond, tennis courts, 2.1 acres of grounds.

Guide Price: £1,650,000.

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

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HOME FURNISHINGS

FLOWER

POWER Gaudy and gorgeous, heavy bold floral prints are back, and they’re blooming fabulous.

Here, we’ve selected our favourites...

Main Image: Sanderson Botanical Arts, curtains and cushions in Etchings & Roses and Tiger Stripe. Sofa in Tuscany II.

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Bold floral prints are evocative and cheery.

The larger the print, the more dramatic the look...

Top: Clarke & Clarke Floretta wallpaper in blush and charcoal colourway.

Above/Right: William Morris Blackthorn wallpaper, taken from an 1892 print, in Tapet colourway.

Right: Fullerton fabric by Osborne & Little, from the brand’s Mansfield Park collection.

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Stapleton Park from Sanderson’s brand new One Sixty collection.

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Left: Snowtree fabric in blue from Colefax & Fowler.

Above: Hollyhocks in gold metallic/tan from Sanderson.

Right: Emmett in gold from Jane Churchill; Feather’s Chinoiserie in paper in mustard; Taihiti wallpaper in rattan colourway from Clarke & Clarke.

Rutland and Stamford’s Best Local Suppliers...

Delcor Interiors: Stamford, 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk.

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

Simply Stamford: St Mary’s Street, Stamford, 01780 481852, www.simplystamford.co.uk. n Please note prices are RRP and should be considered a guide only, availability of brands and ranges at the above design studios subject to variation.

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BESPOKEStone STONE STRUCTURES FOR YOUR GARDEN ABespoke RCHITECTURAL STONE STRUCTURES YOUR GARDEN Structures forFOR your Garden

TRISTAN N ORTONHCOUSE LARKE THE MNorton ULLION Tristian Clarke ON N D D EE SS II G GN N CC O N S U LTAT LTAT IIO ORR AA FFRREEEE,, NNO OO OBBLLIIGGAT AT II O CCAALLLL FFO ON N

07861 767013

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Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH

01572 823389

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

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OUNDLE MILL

THE HOME of

LUXURY There’s a new home for luxury kitchens and bathrooms in the area, following the restoration of the Grade II listed Oundle Mill.

For bespoke, British and handcrafted kitchens, discover classic contemporary quality for yourself in this idyllic setting...

EVERY GREAT ARTIST needs a muse, and for the team at Oundle Mill, their muse is an idyllic location, within a Grade II listed former watermill, adjacent to the River Nene.

Oundle Mill is not only home to beautiful kitchen and bathroom displays, but to a whole host of wildlife including kingfishers, otters and a resident family of swans.

During our visit, the family of swans were enjoying the tranquillity of the Mill, which has been the subject of a three-year restoration, transforming it into an equally graceful studio with three storeys of galleries and displays, designed to be a destination for excellence in both design and quality.

“We’ve called on the charm of a heritage building to reflect our approach to our work,” say Tessa and John Hunter, owners of Oundle Mill. “We believe that by adopting a fresh and simple approach to kitchen design we can incorporate modern features and functionality, without sacrificing the standards of bespoke craftsmanship that have always characterised true quality.”

“The building shows how our work looks in the context of the period properties we often work in, and demonstrates how craftsmanship can be brought up to date for 21st century families.”

Tessa and John met at University and founded Oundle Mill’s parent company, Ergonomic Designs in 2007.

Four years ago, they were looking to expand their company with a second showroom and fell for the charm and distinct character of Oundle Mill which had sat empty for quite some time.

They spent three years ensuring the showroom’s look and feel was commensurate with their products, only for Covid to subsequently delay its official opening.

Now though, the studio can welcome visitors to view a range of kitchens with, broadly, two approaches to design.

The company is an ambassador for SieMatic kitchens, considered among the world’s best contemporary brands for over 90 years and offering quality purist designs for modern environments.

Oundle Mill is also home to the company’s own brand of British, bespoke and handcrafted kitchens, Max Mason. Named after theirs and their head craftsman’s son, Max Mason offers three classically beautiful ranges each with its own subtle yet distinct characteristics.

Truly bespoke and made by hand using age old traditional joinery combined with the latest technology to deliver the highest quality of kitchens.

With a keen eye for detail, Tessa heads up the creative team, working with Mark, Adam, John and Adrian, and is forensic in her observations. >>

Words: Rob Davis.

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OUNDLE MILL KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN

>> “Apart from being aesthetically beautiful, every part of a kitchen should serve a useful purpose and wrap around its owners’ lifestyle and their possessions.”

The company project manages all trades and installers, working with the client or their interior designer for a flawless experience and a single point of contact, from a collaborative design experience to sign-off.

Only the best quality sinks, brassware and appliances are used, with clients typically specifying Gaggenau, Sub-Zero & Wolf, Bora or Fisher & Paykel products – each of which the company is a product ambassador for.

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“Our design ethos is adherence to a classic contemporary look and feel which combines a modern, fresh outlook with our bespoke design, but retaining the craftsmanship and pervading quality of a traditional cabinet maker.”

“An exemplar product is our Naseby dresser, which is a signature piece named – like our other ranges – after Northamptonshire villages.” >> Above: The Naseby Dresser is the firm’s flagship design. Right: Tessa & John Hunter.

Opposite: The Medbourne and Sulby Collections from the Max Mason brand.

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OUNDLE MILL KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN

Above: Oundle Mill is a provider of SieMatic’s high quality contemporary German kitchens.

Left: As its name suggests, Oundle Mill is set in a Grade II listed mill, and the team love their pretty, inspiring location!

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>> It’s intended to reboot the understated design and practicality of a scullery display cabinet to ensure it becomes fit for purpose for even the smartest of kitchens or reception rooms in the 21st century.”

“Our aim of providing best-in-class kitchens with peerless quality and style has been recognised with our nomination for the KBB Review Retail & Design Awards 2021.

The awards are due to be held in September and we’re hoping to be named Showroom of the Year. We’ve worked hard to ensure our showroom is a reflection on the quality

of design and craftsmanship that our clients can expect, so it’s with a great deal of satisfaction and pride that we can now invite those who are looking to create the kitchen or bathroom they’ve always dreamed of, to make an appointment and view our studio for themselves.”

“We know that by viewing our ranges and seeing them in person, there will be no doubt that in terms of functionality and design, Oundle Mill and its SieMatic & Max Mason designs, will reflect our commitment to creating outstanding rooms for our clients.” n

“Our aim of providing best-in-class kitchens with peerless quality and style has been recognised with our nomination for the KBB Review Retail & Design Awards 2021...”

Find Out More: Viewing of Oundle Mill’s studio by appointment is preferred. For a no obligation design consultation and a discussion about your project, call 01733 834600 or see oundlemill.co.uk. The studio is based at Barnwell Rd, Oundle PE8 5PB.

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

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

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk

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

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

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

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SIMPLY STAMFORD

SIMPLY STYLISH, SIMPLY STAMFORD Simply stunning, simply stylish, Simply Stamford. It’s the home of decorative touches and hand-picked, timeless home furnishings in the heart of the town.

This month we meet two friends with a passion for beautiful interiors and gifts...

Featured items available from www.simplystamford.co.uk.

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“We are both passionate about personally choosing each item we sell making sure that they are beautiful and adding a touch of luxury and sparkle to every home, many of which make great gifts too.”

WHEN SOMEONE HAS a passion for something, they very often make a success of it, and the bigger the passion, the greater the success.

Happily, Hannah Forcellati & Kate Needham have a flare for retail and for creating beautiful interiors, which bodes well for the future of the business they founded in December, Simply Stamford, on the town’s St Mary’s Street.

“We love to surround ourselves with beautiful things so we wanted a shop full of stylish products, wonderful smells and interesting pieces to buy. We offer a wide range of products from lighting, mirrors, glasses, vases, jugs, trays, home fragrance, beauty, clocks, art, soft furnishings, barware, products for the kitchen, selected furniture and so much more. Our style is best described as unique and timeless but with a bit of sparkle!”

“We’re two great friends with a passion for interiors, an appreciation for a touch of luxury, and a shared love of travelling the world.”

“We’ve worked together in the travel industry for over 25 years, but both dreamed of setting up a business together in a town we both love.”

“That dream was realised in with our very own independent shop selling quality hand-picked home furnishings, gifts and more.”

Above: Ortigia provides Simply Stamford with a range of Italian home fragrances.

“Our aim is to introduce a wide range of different and exciting brands that we know our customers will love, like Ortigia from Italy.”

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“Our homes over the last year have become more important than ever. We want our customers to fill their homes with lots of beautiful pieces and things that they love...”

Above: Solaris Mirror £145; coil lamp £79, Robert Welch hurricane lamps £50, black console table £370.

Opposite: Ortigia decorated candles £30; art deco trolley £189; Noble Isle bath and shower £21.

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“It’s a luxurious range of soaps, scents, creams, candles and lotions are made using natural products from Sicily. Noble Isle is another of our exquisite, fine fragrance Bath & Body brand inspired by the natural and cultural riches of the British Isles whilst our wide range of Stoneglow candles and diffusers are also made in the UK and have a great reputation for quality.”

“Around the home and on your dinner table, our Robert Welch barware, kitchenware and accessories are practical and elegant, whilst our Nick Munro brand of barware, tea and coffee accessories specialises in creating beautiful classic style.”

“For the autumn we have a great selection of pure wool throws from Brontë by Moon and a wide range of beautiful handmade colourful Bohemian crystal glass from Klimchi.

“Beyond our choice of product though, we also wanted to create a personal shopping experience that is exciting, interesting and will delight every one of our customers, who will always be at the heart of everything we do.”

“Our homes over the last year have become more important than ever as places to cherish and enjoy spending valuable time with our families.”

“So it’s really important to us that we help our customers fill their homes with lots of timeless pieces and things that they love.”

“We are always on the look out to find new and exciting products to add to our ever-growing collection of homewares and gifts. We don’t really follow trends, we just buy products we love that are both beautiful and useful!” n

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Search Online for

Simply Stamford Hannah & Kate say that in addition to their presence on Stamford’s St Mary’s Street, they wanted to create an online presence and launched their new website last month to show off their products...

Find Out More: All of the products featured here are available from Simply Stamford, based on St Mary’s Street, PE9 2DE. Open Monday-Saturday from 9.30am-5.30pm, Sunday 10am-4pm.

For more information call 01780 481852 or visit www.simplystamford.co.uk.

You can also find the company on its Facebook and Instagram channels.

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Hofton Project Management

Managing budgets, time and expectations to keep your dream alive You’re in the planning stages of a new building project… but have you really considered the cost and implications of your project before you employ designers and apply for planning permission?

Robust Viability planning for proposed building projects is rarely carried out properly, projects are often assessed at concept stage using a standardised ‘price per square metre’ system.

Through our experience, Hofton Project Management acknowledge that each construction project is unique, so this system can be a vague tool to manage the financial expectations of the client and the project, which can ultimately lead to over-budget projects and even projects which never start on viability grounds.

Predesign Financial Planning for your proposed project is a cost-effective route to ensure your expectations are managed from the start before you involve architects and planners. This prevents aborted work and avoids lengthy delays starting the project.

Financial project planning is essential to keep your project on time and on budget.

The services we offer include:

n Pre-Planning Project Feasibility. n Pre- Post-Planning Cost Viability. n Building Regulations, SAP/SBEM Preparation. n Planning Conditions Discharge. n Environment Management. n Tender Package Preparation. n Construction Stage Project Management. n Construction Cost Management. n Warranty & Defects Liability Period.

Hofton Project Management Ltd is a sister company of Hofton & Son Ltd established in 1846 as a joiner and undertaker, and has since progressed into a quality leading construction and house-building company of over 150 years. Hofton & Son Ltd and Hofton Project Management are based in Langar near Bingham, Nottingham.

Hofton & Son Ltd has now been in business for 175 years and is still going from strength to strength for its clients.

Hofton Project Management was started by the MD of Hofton & Son in 2019.

Both companies have the same MD, staff and premises and are conducted during the working week.

Managing Director Mark Shouler states: “I have built many different construction projects over the years, varying from small extensions, one off houses, housing estates, health centres, industrial and so on.”

“The projects which have run smoothly, on time and to budget have been planned and managed properly, using the right professionals to do the right job at the right time.”

“All too many times clients ‘wing’ the design and keep the costs to a minimum, thinking they are saving money. In my experience this has always ended badly, with significant aspects of the project missed or designed incorrectly, generally resulting in an over budget late project. This never sits well with the client...!” n

Please contact us to discuss your project and how we can assist with your requirements, call 0115 981 3000 or see www.hoftonprojects.co.uk.

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Construction Project Managment Building & Project Management Services that manage time, budgets and expectation Established in 1846, bringing over 175 years of construction experience to your project

Call for a free, no obligation discussion about your project

0115 981 3000 • www.hoftonprojects.co.uk

FULL DESIGN SERVICE, ALL MANAGED UNDER ONE ROOF

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display • Over 60 appliances on show • Review our recent jobs on our website www.qksstamford.co.uk or visit our Facebook page • 25 large room settings in our extensive showroom The best quality, best value and best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

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

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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

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STAMFORD STONE

Style Your Home with

STAMFORD STONE AT HOME It’s an exciting time at Stamford Stone as the company’s Stamford Stone At Home is extending its range of stone flooring tiles and decorative tiles, so there’s never been a better time to discover great customer service...

Investing in stone flooring or paving is always a big decision. Not only do you want to ensure you source the right style of stone, you also need to ensure the quality is good and that the end result is going to be just what you wanted.

No need to worry. Look no further than Stamford Stone at Home, where you’ll find the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Showroom Sales Manager, Luciana Ciarla.

Luciana is on hand at the company’s showroom which is based at Swaddywell Quarry, 90

near Peterborough, to help with any questions relating to stone flooring or paving.

“I like to give customers 1-2-1 attention,” explains Luciana. “Booking an appointment, means we can dedicate real time to each customer. I can spend plenty of time with them, if they want to, discussing their own particular requirements.”

The showroom is one of a kind in the locality.

As well as offering an exquisite selection of English and world stones, including the prestigious Clipsham limestone cut from the company’s own two local quarry sites, it also

has an outdoor showroom with examples of many paving and walling stones in situ, so you can see how a patio or wall will look.

“Our outdoor showroom is the only one like this in the local area. It really helps our customers visualise what their chosen stone will look like which is really helpful when customers are trying to make a decision as to which stone to choose,” adds Luciana. n Stamford Stone at Home is based at Swaddywell Quarry, PE6 7EL. Call 01780 740 970 or see www.ssathome.co.uk.

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FIRED UP FOR FUN

Getting ready for the festive season, with Stamford Stone at Home...

As the seasons change and the leaves begin to drop, we know it’s time to think about keeping warm and cosy during the winter season. There’s no better image of comfort and joy than a real fire at the centre of a room.

Stamford Stone at Home creates a range of beautifully crafted stone fireplaces which will frame your fire and turn it into a stunning statement in any room or hallway.

The fireplaces are made using their own first-class stone, quarried locally from their own sites, so the quality and provenance can be guaranteed and its good looks and durability will last for decades.

There are six styles and two types of stone to choose your fireplace from, and all designs can be made up in a selection of sizes.

From order to delivery takes on average between 6 and 10 weeks, depending on capacity, so if you are planning on upgrading your living room for Christmas, it’s time to book a visit to the Stamford Stone at Home showroom. n

Exclusive new products to launch...

Stamford Stone at Home is extending its range of stone flooring tiles and decorative tiles

Two new English stones are being added to the range, both will be extracted from the company’s local quarry sites.

“I am so excited about these two additions to our own range,” says Luciana.

“One is a light cream colour which will have wide appeal and will work perfectly in both contemporary and traditional settings. The other new flooring stone will be slightly darker in colour.”

In addition to expanding their flooring collection, Stamford Stone at Home

is also introducing an exquisite new range of decorative floor and wall tiles inspired by the properties, gardens, coastlines and countryside that are cared for by the National Trust.

flooring and decorative wall and floor tiles.”

Stone flooring: Installation top tips...

“You can order a sample, but this will only show you a small piece of the stone, it’s much better if you come in and see it in situ.”

n Always use a professional stone fitter to install your flooring (we can help with recommendations).

“Come along and look at our fantastic ranges of stone

“And bring along your paint charts, kitchen cupboard samples and curtain swatches so I can help you match up the perfect stone choice,” says Luciana.

To see all the new ranges, ring and book a showroom visit with Luciana on 01780 740 970, or see www.ssathome.co.uk.

n Lay anti cracking matting. n Seal your stone by using Stain Stop for a matt finish or Care Seal to create a sheen. n Think carefully, and take advice if necessary, about grout colours - they make a huge difference. n Buy all your sundries, like sealants, cleaners, stainstoppers from the same supplier as your stone, if possible.

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STYLE & SECURITY WITH BESPOKE GARAGE DOORS

n ‘Insulated Sectional’ or ‘Up & Over’ doors. n Fully bespoke and designed to suit your property. n Range of colours and styles. n Remote control using Garador controllers available. n 30 years experience, family firm.

Andrew Dams CALL NOW FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

01526 861737 • 01778 590022 or see www.garagedoorslincolnshire.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS • AUTOMATED ACCESS • SHEDS & SUMMERHOUSES

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The Area’s Most Romantic

WEDDING VENUES The backdrop to a beautiful local wedding is a stunning wedding venue.

Here, we’re profiling a few of the most beautiful and versatile ceremony or reception venues across the county which will allow you to create your perfect wedding...

Words: Rob Davis.

1. Belvoir Castle

The ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland...

Grantham’s Belvoir Castle provides probably the most dramatic backdrop for your wedding the Vale of Belvoir has to offer. Its beauty and practicality go beyond its crenellated spires though, with a family chapel for up to 80 guests, and the Duke’s private Chaplain on hand to help you plan your ceremony. Your wedding reception can take place in the Guardroom – where 100 guests can admire the dazzling array of swords and muskets – or in the Ballroom with its floor to ceiling stained glass windows and gothic archways modelled on Lincoln Cathedral, whilst the State Dining Room is ideal for your wedding breakfast.

n Belvoir NG32 1PE. Call 01476 871001 or see www.belvoircastle.com.

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD WEDDING VENUES

3. Barton Hall Hotel, Barton Seagrave, Kettering

Beautiful weddings are assured in Barton Hall’s Grade I listed orangery, near Kettering...

Barton Hall Hotel located in the picturesque county of Northamptonshire can be the ideal setting for up to 180 guests.

the stunning Grade I listed Orangery for the Ceremony & Drinks Reception,” says Lee Williams.

This idyllic award wedding venue in the Midlands is set in extensive, mature grounds with the fabulous Grade I listed Orangery at the centre point of your day, we ensure every detail of your wedding is handled with the utmost care and attention, and with only holding one wedding reception per day, you can be assured that it will definitely be your special day so that you can relax and enjoy.

“After having wonderful photographs in the picturesque grounds, your Wedding Breakfast will be held in the beautiful Charles Suite which can seat up to 180 guests, with glorious views, a private patio and splendid chandeliers.”

“From the moment you arrive at the Grade II listed Hotel you will be greeted by attentive, warm and friendly staff who will guide you to

2. Peterborough Cathedral Cathedral Church of St Peter, St Paul and St Andrew is the ‘mother church’ of Rutland...

Although baptisms, weddings and funerals in the Church of England often take place at the local parish church, the Cathedral can offer ministry to those who are eligible, or exceptions, considered on a case-by-case basis.

Weddings range from a simple small-scale service in the North Transept, to a big wedding in the Nave with organist, choir and bellringers.

Peterborough Cathedral has a number of historic locations in the Cathedral itself and in the Precincts that offer a beautiful setting for wedding receptions of various sizes.

Wedding Receptions

Quick Tips

“Dimming the lights down low, the Charles Suite then turns into the perfect ambiance for dancing the night away. At the end of the night, rewind and relax opening your cards and presents in your complimentary Bridal Suite.”

“At Barton Hall we pride ourselves on attention to detail. The dedicated events team is on hand to guide you through the planning and preparation to answer any questions that you may have so that you and your guests can sit back & enjoy your day.”

“Our fabulous team of chefs are available for any query you may have and provide delicious menus. We work with many wonderful suppliers but if you have a particular contact then no problem the day is yours.”

n Barton Hall, Barton Seagrave, Kettering, NN15 6RS. Call 01536 515505 or see www.bartonhall.com.

Your wedding reception should be the first element of your wedding that you book, as doing so will give you the firm date you need to book all of your other elements.

n Call 01733 355300 or email bookings@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

Left: Belvoir Castle near Grantham.

Above: Peterborough Cathedral.

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WEDDING VENUES

4. Normanton Church The quintessential Rutland wedding venue...

Normanton Church was deconsecrated in the 1970s, but it remains available to couples as a civil licensed wedding venue.

Although ceremonies are conducted by a registrar, this magnificent building has all the charm and gravitas you would associate with a traditional church wedding. Most brides dream of the perfect white wedding with all the romantic trimmings and Normanton Church naturally lends itself to such an occasion.

n South Shore, Rutland LE15 8RP Call 01780 686800 or see normantonchurch.wedding

5. Mr. Molecey’s Marvellous Mill, Deeping With 20 acres of spectacular grounds...

The Beautifully Restored Grade II listed Granary and Molecey Mill at Deeping are an adaptable and beautiful setting for weddings. Set in 20 acres of mature, established gardens and with rivers and streams everywhere, this is an idyllic setting for any event.

Whether you’re looking for a riverside picnic and an outdoor ceremony, or a wedding in a marquee or tipi, The Granary team has the creative flair, expertise and contacts to help you plan your perfect day.

When it’s all over, a one bedroomed self-contained riverside retreat, The Duck House, is a beautiful place to wake up as husband & wife!

n West Deeping PE6 9JD. Call 07855 242356, or see www.moleceyestates.com.

6. ‘Fay ce que voudras’* at Hambleton Hall...

Weddings and special events in the pretty setting of Tim & Stefa Hart’s country house hotel...

There are few superlatives which do justice to Hambleton Hall. Beautiful, luxurious and picturesque each fall short as adjectives to describe the country house hotel created in 1979/1980 by Tim and Stefa Hart.

The estate dates back to 1881 and was originally a hunting lodge which was in the ownership of Eva Wedding Receptions Astley Paston Cooper, who was close friends with Noël Coward, Malcolm Sargent and Charles Scott-Moncrieff.

Ask your wedding venue if they have a dedicated wedding With Executive Chef Aaron planner who will act as your Patterson having been in post single point of contact since 1992, the brigade of throughout your wedding chefs has ensured Hambleton planning, minimising Hall has retained its Michelin star hassle. since the 1980s and has justified the hotel’s reputation as the finest place to dine in the area. For couples planning a very special wedding, Hambleton Hall holds a licence covering a variety of spaces for the ceremony: the Private Dining Room, the Study, the Restaurant and the Croquet Suite.

Quick Tips

In addition to first class dining, the hotel also makes available to wedding guests its 17 beautiful rooms and suites, all individually decorated by Stefa and her team.

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Another of Hambleton Hall’s strengths is its beautiful grounds, tended by Tim and his team. with formal borders, and leads down towards the lake, the hotel presents great backdrops for wedding photography.

Hambleton Hall’s maximum capacity is 60, and exclusive use of the hotel is available too.

Naturally couples can work with their dedicated wedding planner to ensure they are able to plan their perfect day in a location which is peaceful, beautiful and so incredibly special.

n Hambleton Hall, Oakham LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756 991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.

* Fay ce que voudras; ‘do as you please,’ the inscription in the lintel above the door of Hambleton Hall, pictured above.

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7. Kilworth House

Kilworth’s stunning Victorian mansion For a stunning wedding, Kilworth House is a great backdrop. Set in 38 acres of parkland, Kilworth House was built in 1888 for John Entwisle and it was restored around the millennium, becoming a hotel, with the addition of a 550 capacity theatre venue in 2007.

Options for those planning a wedding include the beautiful and very light orangery, which can accommodate 130 guests, or one of the hotel’s six private rooms from the Wordsworth or Shakespeare suites to the Cellar Bar. Alternatively, The Staging Post is a traditional log cabin adjacent to Kilworth House’s open air theatre.

Naturally Kilworth House has a civil license and has dedicated wedding coordinators and a team of chefs delivering bespoke menus.

“Exclusive use of Kilworth House is also available which provides all 44 bedrooms and the hotel also has a beauty treatment room.

Its terraces and parkland create a stunning backdrop for photos...”

Exclusive use of the hotel is also available which provides all 44 bedrooms and the hotel also has a beauty treatment room for pre-wedding pampering. Courtyards, terraces and the parkland surrounding the country house hotel all create a stunning backdrop for photos.

n Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth LE17 6JE. Call 01858 880058 or see kilworthhouse.co.uk.

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WEDDING VENUES

CREATING A WINNING WEDDING 1. Set the Date Your entire wedding planning orbits around the date you set.

Start with booking your reception, and you’ll be able to confirm the availability of all of your other wedding suppliers from there.

2. Decide Numbers Next comes the numbers. The reception is the most expensive element of your dayso determining numbers will enable you to set and monitor your wedding budget accordingly. Decide how many people will attend during the day and in the evening, then you can plan catering.

3. Create a Table Plan Now you’ve a good idea of how many people will attend the wedding, you can also create the table layout for your wedding reception.

4. Venue Decoration

8. Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, Exton, Rutland

Making it easier to create a super wedding in Rutland either at Barnsdale Lodge or Fort Henry

It’s one of Rutland’s most established and well-respected country house hotels so it’s little wonder that Barnsdale Lodge is just as popular with those planning a wedding in the area too.

“To keep things simple, we offer a choice of Wedding Packages: Classic, Winter and Elegant.

However, we can just as easily tailor these should you wish for something different.”

The hotel can accommodate weddings from 20 people to 180 in a range of private dining rooms and function suites. In addition the hotel also manages bookings for the Exton Estate and Fort Henry, the Grade II listed gothic folly built in 1788 for the Earl of Gainsborough.

“The Classic Package provide an inclusive package for up to 60 guests, from £4,950.

For out of season weddings, we have a Winter Wedding Offer from £4,345, and an Elegant Package is an enhanced package which also includes canapés, an evening finger buffet, disco, DJ and lighting from £7,645.”

“Our Personal Events Organiser will offer advice and a wealth of experience; discuss your ideas and dreams and work with you to create your perfect day,” says Liz Crombleholme the hotel’s Wedding & Events Manager.

“The hotel’s team of chefs can provide catering to suit, from an informal finger buffet to a five-course dinner and provide outside catering if required. The team are friendly and efficient and will work hard to ensure your wedding day is memorable and truly unique.”

5. The Children To ensure that they’re occupied during the reception – especially the speeches – make plans to keep youngsters busy.

You can create party bags with colouring books, quiet activities or other items that will be well received by children but will also keep them quiet and prevent them from getting restless too.

5. Helpful Extras

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n The Avenue, Exton, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

“Our Personal Events Organiser will offer advice and a wealth of experience; discuss your ideas and dreams and work with you to create your perfect day,” says Barnsdale Lodge’s Liz Crombleholme.

Next comes chair covers, flowers for the tables, and wedding favours.

You can also use the opportunity to work out where you’ll put the table plan and ask your stationery suppliers to create something to reflect that, as well as commissioning place cards for each table.

Depending on when you’ll be hosting your wedding, why not have a basket of disposable slippers for tired feet, personalised umbrellas or sparklers available for guests... the latter will look great in photos too! n

The hotel can also provide wedding breakfasts, marquees and drinks receptions at Fort Henry, with its lakeside location, and on the Exton Estate adjacent to the Noel family, the Earls of Gainsborough, for over 400 years. Creating a truly individual wedding in a stunning location has never been easier.

Rebekah Robert Luxury Fine Art Photography, 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com.

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Exton Chapel, image by ARJ Photography, call 07810 851315, or see www.arj-photo.co.uk.

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D ERM A L F I L L ERS • WRI N KL E T REAT M EN T • PRES C RI PT IO N S K IN C A R E

SANDLANDTAYLOR AESTHETICS A E S T H E T I C S D O C T O R M B B S M S C P G C E R T • N H S D O C T O R W I T H 8 Y E A R S E X P. ,

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0.5ML LIP FILLER 1 M L L I P F I L L ER

• 45 M I N U T ES • F ROM £ 1 5 0

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PRE S C RI P T I O N S K I N C A RE CO N S U LTATI ON 30 M I N U T ES A N D OVER • £30, C ON S U LTAT I O N F E E RE D E E MAB LE AG AI N ST COST OF OB AG I SKI N CARE P ROD UCTS

Call for an appointment on 07720 345236 or find us on Facebook or Instagram @sandlandtayloraesthetics

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SAY “I DO!” IN A DESIGNER

WEDDING

DRESS The UK’s most well-regarded wedding dress designers have revealed their 2022 collections...

To view thousands more wedding dresses, see www.ukbride.co.uk.

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1. Alex Hannah Melba, full skirted ballgown in delicate floral damask with a lovely double bow at the back. www.alanhannah.co.uk.

4. Charlotte Bridal Margot, with hand-stitched appliqués, pleated tulle bodice and full ballgown tulle skirt. www.charlotte-bridal.com.

2. Allure Bridal Cinderella dress in ice blue tulle with sequin and bead clusters. www.allurebridals.com.

5. Christiano Lucci Bette, strapless sweetheart dress with beaded waistband. www.cristianolucci.com.

3. Amanda Wyatt’s Honesty is an elegant lace gown with illusion neckline and back. www.ukbride.co.uk.

6. Enzoani’s Rachel, fit-and-flare mermaid with leaf and vine appliqués. www.enzoani.com.

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7. Ivory & Co Prarie Blossom with cape, in luxury lace with Guipure lace appliques, shown here in ivory. www.ivoryandcobridal.co.uk.

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10. Carmelina by Mori Lee, with delicate embroidered appliqués on a chic, draped bodice and v-neckline. uk.morilee.com

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Local Wedding Dress Stockists... n Anna Couture, Stamford: 01780 762614, www.houseofannacouture.com.

8. Jenny Packham Ursula autumn winter 2121 asymmetric column dress with beading. www.jennypackham.com.

11. Shayna by Romantica is a stunning lace mermaid style, with a plunge neckline, lace motifs and shoulder straps. www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk.

n Belle & Bouquet, Wellingore: 01522 811122, www.belleandbouquet.co.uk

9. Justin Alexander Carlee sweetheart neckline wedding dress with detachable straps. www.justinalexander.com.

12. Veromia style number VRK61807, a-line wedding dress with lace overlay and embroidered bodice. www.veromia.co.uk. n

n Courtyard Bridal, Market Harborough: 01858 288020.

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n Blush Bridal, Bourne: 01778 218020, www.blushbridal.co.

n Helen Kirkwood, Stamford: 01780 763443. n Lace & Pearl, Oakham: 07402 248276, www.laceandpearlbridal.com.

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Making Your Day Truly Special...

Escape ordinary and experience a wedding venue that’s beautiful, versatile and can be tailored to suit the style of your special day You’ll know. You’ll know straight away. Drawing up to the Grade II listed Barton Hall there are few venues more picture perfect than the 16th century four-AA star country house hotel.

If you’re planning your wedding, then Barton Hall, with its picture perfect Grade I listed Orangery, manicured lawns, trees and foliage and idyllic chandeliers in the beautiful Charles Suite provide a unique backdrop for you to create memories.

The place was once the home of the legendary Charles Wicksteed, namesake of Wicksteed Park and now boasts 29 individually styled bespoke bedrooms including a stunning four poster Bridal Suite.

Meanwhile, The Vines Brasserie offers superb food and is open daily to the general public, as well as for exclusive Wedding Day hire. During weddings, the hotel and restaurant can also be closed to the public and will be exclusively yours for the whole day.

Depending on the size and style of your wedding, the hotel offers a variety of function spaces from the Beautiful Charles Suite with a capacity of 180.

This room boasts magnificent chandeliers and you can dazzle your guests underneath them for your first dance together. Meanwhile the Garden Room overlooks the lawns with a capacity of 50 for the smaller more intimate gathering.

You can enjoy the unique Orangery in the Grounds for your civil ceremony or a drinks reception if you are

having a Church or Registry Office ceremony beforehand.

With spacious and bespoke luxurious bedrooms that offer period features whilst being very well appointed, Barton Hall gives any bridal party the ideal place to get ready before saying ‘I Do.’ Lee Williams of Barton Hall says: “We are proud and feel very lucky to host over 80 weddings each year. Our brides and grooms say how wonderful the venue is and we also understand here at Barton Hall what an important role your venue plays in your Wedding Day.” “That’s why we’ve put together both high season and low season wedding packages for our couples, which make it easier to gain an idea of a starting budget for your wedding.”

“From there, you can tailor your wedding to create the day of your dreams. If you’re looking for something a little different we can also look at a bespoke package so we can try and meet your every need.”

“Our venue hire packages range from £1,500 to £5,000 for 60-80 guests, excluding exclusive use. It’s also easy to add guests’ room bookings and extras like our in-house DJ or canapés.”

“We think that planning a wedding should be stress-free and enjoyable from start to finish. That’s why our dedicated wedding coordinator is on hand, from your wedding planning, to the moment you leave Barton Hall as husband and wife to begin your happy ever after.” n

Find Out More: For a personal guided tour around Barton Hall and to discuss your wedding, call 01536 515505 or see www.bartonhall.com.

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Mum Knows Best

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SUPER STYLISH OUTFITS FOR THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM 1. Ispirato, style ISF910 in mother of pearl also available in Amalfi sky or blossom.

2. Condici, style 71060 in cream and angelite.

3. Condici, style 70877 in pearl ice and almond.

4. John Charles, style 26847.

5. Veni Infantino by Ronald Joyce short fitted dress with matching coat.

6. Lewis Henry, style 245, in turquoise.

7. Linea Rafaelli, style 198 Château De Provence.

8. John Charles, style 26795 seen here in Wedgewood, also available in Blush or Fuchsia.

Opposite: Ronald Joyce style 991464 in dusty rose.

Mother of the Bride or Groom Specialists: Anne Wilkinson, Retford/Lincoln: 01522 526752, annewilkinson.co.uk.

Cindy’s Sutton Bridge: 01406 350961, www.cindysfashions.co.uk.

Dress Place, Nottingham: 0115 924 6368, www.dressplace.co.uk Jane Young, Lincoln/Newark: 01636 703511, www.jane-young.co.uk.

Private Kollection, Market Deeping: 01778 346226, ispirato.co.uk.

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Vest is Best For autumn’s unpredictable climate, what could be more practical than a stylish gilét? Here, we prove the old adage that vest is best...

This Page: Holland Cooper Aviator gilét in tawnty tweed £499.

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Holland Cooper quilted classic gilét in navy £145.

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Schöffel Ladies Lambswool Aerobloc gilét cedar green £170.

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Dubarry Ballycoe gilét in ice £89.

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Clonwell gilét in amber from Dubarry £79.

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FASHION

Top/Left: Faux fur gilét in mocha by Jayley £175. Top/Right: Dubarry Clonmel Quilt Gilet in navy £130.

Bottom/Left: Ralph Lauren Spring Red gilét, £179. Bottom/Right: Chocolate gilét by Fairfax & Favor £475.

For Local Stockists See: Barbour, www.barbour.com; Dubarry, www.dubarry.com; Fairfax & Favor, www.fairfaxandfavor.com; Holland Cooper, www.hollandcooper.com; Jayley www.jayley.com; Schöffel, www.cavells.co.uk; Ralph Lauren www.ralphlauren.co.uk.

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We are now offering facial rejuvenation treatments...

Discover a beautiful you with our dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments A new service in addition to our high-quality dentistry.

EXCLUSIVE TS DISCOEUREN ADERS

FOR PRID R MORE ONLY, CALL FOTION INFORMA QUOTE LP1

Call now for a free, no obligation discussion or to book a consultation

0147 76 6 594480

i f @d t lh lth t .co.uk info@dentalhealthcentre

3 Avenue A Road, Gra antham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6TA

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AUTUMN COSMETICS

Light & Beautiful

FRESH BRIGHT COSMETICS TO TAKE YOU INTO THE AUTUMN MONTHS

1. Flawless skin from Elemis with a new mask...

Spa-favourite Elemis presents its new Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset. It’s a two-part home treatment, consisting of a Phytic, Ellagic and Mandelic acid peel to resurface and rejuvenate skin, plus a phase two treatment which is designed to smooth and rejuvenate skin with deep hydration.

Clinically proven in independent trials, £70/ 2 x 15ml.

2. Luxury from Hermès Hermès, body lotion. “I dreamed of this garden; I created a perfume woven from its memories, the cycle of trees and flowers, nature still enduring within it,” says Christine Nagel, Hermès’ perfumer. Moisturises skin leaving it soft and supple, £42/200ml.

3. Sooth tired eyes...

Equilibrium, from Hourglass, provides soothing hydrating comfort for tired eyes thanks to its clinically proven formula designed to reduce the look of puffiness around the eyes and reduce fine lines. Reduces inflammation and boosts collagen for refreshed-looking eyes, £92/16.3g.

5. An ecological scent for Autumn from Issey Miyake Issey Miyake triumphs again with this Eau de Parfum, created using green chemistry. Musky and hypnotic, the perfume opens with notes of damask rose, and lilac as well as orange blossom.

Ingenious perfumer techniques avoid real lilacs needing to be harvested, allowing the fragrance to be as eco-friendly as possible, £84, 90ml.

6. New Aromatherapy Associates diffuser...

Aromatherapy Associates’ exquisite ceramic diffuser is fully portable with optimised run times and a soft halo of light, allowing you to truly relax into the ultimate in luxurious wellbeing.

Inspired by spa atomising technology, it disperses a micro-fine mist of 100% natural, pure essential oil blends, RRP £120.

4. Sleep well...

Neom presents this hand balm with shea butter and cocoa butter to sooth your hands, and with lavender, chamomile and patchouli plus 11 other essential oils, it’ll help to ensure you enjoy a good nights sleep too, £20/100ml.

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

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A putting green that puts residents first...!

An artificial putting green is one of the newest facilities for residents at Oakham Grange to enjoy, so if you’ve any vintage golf gear, you could help residents enjoy fresh air and some healthy competition!

“Getting older doesn’t mean you lose you competitive side, and the our putting green will enable friendly competitions across multiple generations.”

Oakham Grange in Barleythorpe Oakham has created an artificial putting green for their residents to enjoy all year round.

Although they have purchased brand new putters for residents to use, they are appealing for older putters that may be feeling unloved somewhere at the back of a garage or shed, to be donated, so residents can have a wider choice of clubs to use.

“For those living with dementia, the recognition of a putter design from their past playing career, may inspire them to play again, rekindling lots of positive memories.

Who knows, your once ‘lucky putter’ can be lucky once again.”

Robert Myers part of the team at Oakham Grange said: “Sadly, you can’t easily walk into to a shop and find a range of old putters from 1950s or 1960s... even looking online it’s hard to find the right thing.”

“We are not looking for new, or expensive putters to be donated, it’s more about giving a good home to anything not being used and will probably never use again.”

A strong part of Oakham Granges care ethos is around maintaining resident’s skills and interests.

If you do have something to donate, please contact us, or drop it off at the front door of Oakham Grange, for us to sanitise and make Covid safe.

By having their own putting green, residents have another reason to go outside for a breath of fresh air, make new friends and gain additional exercise. It’s also great that family and friends visiting residents at the home here can join in the fun, too!

n Oakham Grange is an Ardale home, purpose built and designed by the family that owns it; it’s been created to be a home, not a hotel. You will find it’s a bright and airy place to live. the company is family run business and has owned and managed care homes for 25 years. Call 01572 332211 for a tour or see www.oakhamgrange.co.uk

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HOLISTIC HEALTH

A Cacao Ceremony The idea of medicinal chocolate might seem to good to be true but there are health and wellbeing benefits as well as a couple of caveats, as Ali Hutchinson explains more in her monthly health and wellbeing digest...

Words: Ali Hutchinson. Image: Dorte Kjaerulff Photography.

IF YOU WERE TOLD that drinking a warm, concentrated hot chocolate could help you nutritionally, boosting your iron and magnesium levels and give you a shot of dopamine, the feel-good hormone, would you decline? Probably not. Most of us would be willing to give it a go for the taste alone and that’s what I want to share today.

I touched on it last month mentioning Ceremonial Cacao and how I was using it as part of a daily ‘dieta’ and I’ve had a few raised eyebrows and questions as a result.

If you assumed Cacao was chocolate or cocoa’s older, darker sister, you’re in for a bitter awakening. As it turns out, there’s a lot more that distinguishes Cacao from cocoa than the spelling!

They may have a similar-sounding name and place of origin, but they are not the same thing. Most people who try Cacao for the first time find themselves shocked with the spicy bitterness of the chocolate coloured liquid that looks and smells like regular hot chocolate, but tastes nothing like the bars so many of us reach for when dealing with emotional situations.

What is cacao?

Cacao is the natural and unprocessed seed of the Theobroma Cacao tree. The ancients called it food of the Gods from the translation Thea meaning God and Broma meaning food. Cocoa is actually the powder left behind after the outer husk of the cacao beans has been removed, the bean processed, and the butter removed. Cacao is the more highly concentrated, or natural, version of chocolate with many nutrients and much of the fat still in place.

Most mass-produced chocolate, even the good varieties, contain only 20 to 30 per cent cacao! The rest is milk, sugar and solids with things like animal fats and palm oil being thrown in to create the sweet addictive taste we have come to associate with emotional release.

The West is new to the art of using Cacao for healing so you may never have heard of ‘Mama Cacao’ but she has been used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes for thousands of years. Cacao was considered sacred, and the ritual of drinking it as an elixir for good health has its roots in the ancient Olmec, Mayan and Aztec traditions in Central and South America.

The Cacao I am using, and suggesting you try, is used in spiritual ceremonies and is almost pure ground Cacao bean mixed with Cacao butter, water and maybe a few spices.

Health benefits of Cacao

Healers in many cultures have traditionally used Cacao to alleviate a host of mental and physical afflictions, such as depression, insomnia, nervousness and excitability, as well as regulating blood pressure and sugar levels, and preventing cardiometabolic diseases – the number one cause of death in the world according to the WHO. It stands to reason then, as multiple clinical trials have shown, that consuming cacao can help with anaemia (especially among vegetarians and vegans); lower the risk of cardiometabolic diseases by improving the markers for triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and fasting insulin; improve brain function and our ability to focus; and improve our mood including supporting our serotonin,

dopamine and endorphins. Now you seriously want to give it a try... don’t you?!?

Locally you can try it at one of my Cacao ceremonies in person or online; message me for future dates, as days and times over the summer may change. Or if you want to consume it at home I’ve found a fabulous source in Pablo at Forever Cacao (forevercacao.co.uk).

I always check people’s health before offering cacao but the great thing about it is it will automatically tell your body if you’re overdoing it. Too much will give you migraines and stomach aches indicating that you should lower your dose or stop.

If you’re contemplating switching from coffee to cacao for the increased health benefits and want some advice on how to get started please message, I’m here to help and support you.

What happens at a Cacao Ceremony

My cacao ceremonies are always a restorative and deeply channelled event with a meditation and often a combination of healing practices such as reiki, sound, dance, yoga and meditation.

A typical ceremony involves a group of people sitting in circle together, setting intentions (what you hope to achieve or to rid yourself of during the exercise), drinking Cacao, sharing intimate confidences without judgment, and allowing Cacao to guide you to an elevated meditative state.

They typically last between an hour or two but I’m looking at collaborating with other local healers to put on a day long retreat in the Autumn and looking for local people to collaborate with so please also get in touch. n

Find Out More: If you’re struggling with perimenopause or menopause, experiencing gut issues, or need support with energy levels, weight loss or weight management I’m here to help. Book a free call via my blog www.ali-hutchinson.co.uk or email hello@ali-hutchinson.co.uk or call to find out how I could help you on the path to a brighter future: 07973 843020.

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MOTORS

PERFECTLY

FORMED It’s the smallest of Mercedes Benz’s three executive saloon, but the latest iteration of the very popular C-Class is perfectly formed, with lots of helpful technology and frugal engines...

Words: Rob Davis.

DIAL-UP INTERNET. Betamax Tapes. Music on CDs, house phones and hoover bags... there are few things more certain than death, taxes or the impending obsolesce of the objects we all thought were here to stay.

Feeling the heat at the moment is the humble family car. The current generation of the Mercedes C-Class, for example, has sold over 2.5m cars worldwide since its launch in 2014, and even in recent years the car has still sold in volumes of about 50,000 in the UK alone.

And yet, with the indomitable rise of the SUV or 4x4, especially in our part of the world – with our shockingly bad road surfaces – buyers are moving towards taller cars with better visibility and greater ground clearance.

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Ford has already announced that its family saloon/hatch/estate – the Mondeo – will not be replaced, or at least it’ll metamorphose into an SUV, and similar cars like the bland Vauxhall Insignia, the BMW 3-Series and Volkswagen’s Passat are now somewhat of an endangered species.

But there’s still a case to be made for the compact executive saloon or estate despite their market share being cannibalised by the rise of the SUV, and if you needed more any evidence of that, this is it.

Mercedes Benz’s C-Class is pretty much the best compact executive car you can buy.

I owned one and it never missed a beat; reliable, comfortable, well-equipped. >>

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>> This new generation will reach showrooms as Pride goes to press, and offers, well, more of the same. It’s style is evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, but that’s fine; the saloon is smart and the estate is capacious.

In the cabin, though, is where the real changes make themselves known. Most notably the C-Class is imbued with technology and luxury directly taken from the firm’s flagship S-Class limo. A large vertical touchscreen now dominates, and has eliminated many physical controls with an easy, responsive system. The car also has the latest MBUX system of digital dashboard.

Whilst the estate is the same length as the four door, its ‘rear seats up’ boot capacity is 490 litres, and with seats folded, a whopping 1,510 litres. Unless you’re really sold on saloons, we reckon it’s the one to go for.

Though the boot is gigantic, though, the C-Class’s engines have shrunken, with the C200 powered by a small 1.5 litre engine, with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. For many, the C220d diesel is likely to be the best bet, though a plug-in C350e replacement and a diesel/plug-in will also feature.

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Christian Früh, Chief Engineer for the car, has promised that plug-ins will have twice the range – about 100km – of previous models, and so, for those still cautious of making the transition to a full electric car, those versions might be a good compromise.

A fast AMG version will, follow, too.

Other highlights include rear-wheel steering, self-parking technology and adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assistance.

More tech, better economy and greater integration of new hybrid/electric technology.

If the compact executive is under threat from the rise of the SUV, the C-Class is the best counter argument; a best in class car. n

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Estate of the Art: An alternative to SUVs...

BMW 318i M Sport Touring £36,180: In M-Sport Touring spec, the BMW and Mercedes are an even match for cargo space, seats up or down. 60mph is reached in 8.7 seconds, top speed is 140mph. Drivers are rewarded with an economy figure of 40.4mpg-42.4mpg. Standard equipment includes leather seats, 18” wheels and reversing camera, as well as an infotainment system with BMW’s latest generation OS8.

Naturally, a plug-in hybrid powertrain is also available. n

Audi A4 Avant Technik 35 TFSI S Tronic, £33,125: A 2.0 four-cylinder engine yields 60mph in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. Economy figures stand at between 43.5-44.1mpg, and though luggage capacity is a little down on its rivals at 495 litres with seats in place or 1,495 with seats folded, the difference is negligible.

Technic spec provides smartphone compatibility, automatic parking and rear view camera, and MMI navigation with virtual cockpit. Top spec Vorsprung models are costly, commanding a £13,000 premium, but add a panoramic roof, driver assistance package, Bang & Olufsen stereo and multi-colour LED lighting. n

MERCEDES C-CLASS C200 Price: £39,000 (est, on sale July).

Engine: 1.5 litre four cylinder turbo petrol, 9-speed auto gearbox.

Performance: 0-62 mph: 7.2 seconds. Top Speed: 149mph.

Economy 38.1mpg-43.4mpg.

Equipment: Adaptive cruise, 360° camera, self-parking, sat nav, heated leather seats, power tailgate, climate control and electric windows/mirrors. n

Jaguar XF Sportbrake P250 R-Dynamic S £37,190: Jaguar’s XF is set to be phased out alongside the smaller XE and now dearly departed XJ limo, in favour of the company’s new SUVs, including a bunch of new electric models. For now, the estate XF provides a 2.0V4 engine, 60mph in 7.1 seconds, a top speed of 146mph, and generous standard kit including heated leather electrically adjustable seats, navigation and 3D camera. n

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MOTORS

TAKING

GOLD Porsche has launched a storming new flagship version of its Cayenne SUV. At £144,000 the Cayenne Coupé Turbo GT provides extra oomph and style to spare thanks to its gold wheels... an acquired taste, or a style statement?

Words: Rob Davis.

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THANK GOODNESS. The Porsche Cayenne was a bit lacking in speed, after all. Well, it wasn’t. Still, what’s the expression... more is more and less is much less?

At a whisper under £145,000, Porsche’s Cayenne Coupé offers storming performance, plus tuning and handling tweaks in order to extract an extra 89bhp and 50Nm torque from its 4.0V8 engine.

Total power output is 631bhp and 850Nm torque, resulting in an unseemly 3.3 second 60mph dash. The exhaust is now a titanium version of the conventional Cayenne’s pipes, and the silencer has been removed, ostensibly to save weight but doubtless to make the GT sound a bit more menacing.

Other changes include a reprogrammed eight-speed automatic gearbox providing quicker shifts and a retuned all-wheel drive system with launch control for making a quick getaway. The Cayenne’s air suspension has also been fettled, and it sits 17mm lower.

A contoured carbon roof and black wheel arch extensions, together with 22-inch GT Design wheels in Neodyme, dominate its side view. The carbon side plates fitted lengthwise to the roof spoiler are GTspecific, as is the adaptively extendable rear spoiler’s lip, which is 25mm larger than that fitted to the Turbo.

PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ TURBO GT

Inside, the car also debuts the firm’s next-generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with improved performance and a new user interface.

The system allows for in-depth integration of Apple Music as well as Android Auto, which means that all popular smartphones can now be integrated.

More power to your Cayenne was hardly necessary, but the style tweaks will doubtless appeal to those already considering a Cayenne, which remains the best handing large SUV on the market. n

Price: £144,000 (on sale now).

Engine: 4.0V8 turbocharged.

Performance: 60mph in 3.3 seconds, 186mph.

Equipment: Air suspension, 22” wheels, torque vectoring, electric sports seats. n 125

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MOTORS

Thoroughly Modern Mini LONDON ELECTRIC CARS (LEC) HAS LAUNCHED A CLASSIC MINI EV CONVERSION THAT DOESN’T COST THE EARTH

Nissan provides UK car industry with a battery powered boost...

Nissan last month revealed plans for a £1bn flagship Electric Vehicle Hub creating a world-first EV manufacturing ecosystem. Centred around the record-breaking plant in Sunderland, UK, Nissan EV36Zero will supercharge the company’s drive to carbon neutrality and establish a new 360-degree solution for zero-emission motoring. 900 new jobs will be created and will help other manufacturers to have the confidence to make batteries and electric vehicles in the UK too. n NISSAN

LEC Proving that electric vehicles conversions don’t have to cost the earth, London Electric Cars (LEC) has launched its affordable electric-powered classic Mini conversion, with prices starting from £25,000 (excluding donor car).

The most cost-effective in the marketplace, they are also some of the most sustainable in terms of their end-to-end vehicle lifecycle impact.

Based in the heart of London, LEC is the only electric car conversion specialist within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) as well as being the only EV converter based in one of the world’s largest cities.

The base 20 kWh LEC classic Mini conversion, has a projected range of 60 - 70 miles, but owners can install upgraded batteries to provide more range too. n

British Motor Show Gears Up FIRST EVER BRITISH MOTOR SHOW SINCE 2008 PROMISES MODEL LAUNCHES, FAMILY FUN AND CELEBRITIES TOO...

BRITISH MOTOR SHOW The British Motor Show is to make a momentous return this month, the first major international motor show to take place in the UK since 2008.

Based at Farnborough International Expo Centre, Hampshire from 19th – 22nd August, the show will feature a variety of content, including the Automotive Careers Expo, The Select Electric Motor Show, Retro Electric Live, two live stages and exhibits dedicated to motorsport and future technology.

Adult tickets £18, VIP tickets £100. For more, see www.thebritishmotorshow.live. n

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

SELF-DRIVING CARS

ARE WE READY FOR SELFDRIVING CARS? NOT QUITE SAYS SURVEY...

The UK public is still yet to be convinced of the prospect of fully autonomous vehicles, a recent CarGurus survey has revealed.

While having a car drive itself is still out of many driver’s comfort zones, automated technologies such as automatic emergency breaking and pedestrian detection, that assist a driver in getting from A to B safely, are of significant interest to car buyers.

Respondents were evenly spilt when it came to their overall opinion about the development of selfdriving cars, with 30% considering themselves excited, 35% neutral and 36% concerned.

This divide was echoed in the near fifty-fifty split in participants who felt the technology was still too new to place their faith in.

However many participants were warmer towards the merits of practical assistance instead of full autonomy, and were very or extremely interested in cars with features such as automatic emergency braking (43%), lane keeping assist (36%) and automatic parking (48%). n 127

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PICTURE THIS

The A Stamford LagoonsSkyscape... of Rutland Water AUTUMN OVERLOOKING THE DREAMY SKIES OF STAMFORD, THERE ARE EIGHT LAGOONS AT RUTLAND WATER, EACH TAKEN FROM SAINTS IN THE CENTRE THE TOWN CURATED TOALL APPEAL TOCHURCH A SPECIFIC SPECIES OFOF WATER BIRD

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Fortunately, Located between All Saints Place andan announcement of the church dates forwas 2022’s Red Lion Square, first event is due as Pride goes to press. mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086,can and services still pursuit take place You still enjoy the of there on aself-guided regular basis. birdwatching though, as Egleton andreformation, Lyndon nature reservesatare Prior to the Stamford one adjacent to nine13 miles of lagoons on the time contained parochial churches and All Saintsend Church was originally western of Rutland Water. intended

as a daughter of theand long-since The sites spanchurch 1,000 acres it is demolished Peters.25,000 Extensive additions occupied bySt around birds. were made by the in the 30 hides allow youBrowne to set upfamily your scope 15th century was only realised that the or camera andwhen enjoyit not Rutland’s church probably a better bet for ospreys was – thanks to a conservation ongoing repair.began Within church, project which in the 1996 – but athe organ built in 1916 too.

by James Jepson wealthwas of other birdlife Binns and theare interior The reserves a Siteisofplastered Special and painted with exposed stone dressings.

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by Anglian Water Stonehenge and Avebury. n n in partnership with the LRWT. Image: Dean www.discover-rutland.co.uk.

Fisher, Pride Magazine.

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

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