AUG ‘21
BIRCHOVER • DARLEY BRIDGE • DARLEY DALE • DARLEY HILLSIDE • ELTON • FARLEY • HACKNEY • NORTHWOOD • ROWSLEY • STANTON IN PEAK • TWO DALES • UPPER HACKNEY • WENSLEY • WINSTER • YOULGRAVE.
See our Sections Other Services
pg4
Professional pg8 Services Food & Retail
pg12
Kids & Family
pg20
Health & Beauty
pg23
Competition Time! Y
IL WIN FAM TE 90 MINU EK TR ALPACA
6 See pageils for deta
Pets pg25 Home
pg26
Garden pg35
Voice in the Community
ay D g o D l a n o i t a n r e Int gust 26th Au
Shouting about businesses in the heart of your community
www.VOICEMAGAZINES.co.uk
much I am so an this th prettier set! sun
FREE *
Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order
Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets • Established family business Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote
01629 705657 info@ahminstallations.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk
*Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more information.
• Disabled Facilities Grants • Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms • D iscounts for over 60s, SSAF A and EX Service personnel
Hi Readers, You all know by now that we’re animal mad at Voice Magazines! So with that in mind, I set our chief designer, Lisa, a bit of a challenge this month. As we now have 10 magazines in total and we have 10 dogs between us, it made sense that for International Dog Day on the 26th August, I thought it’d be nice for Lisa to draw and paint each of our dogs and then place them on a picture with a caption that suits their personalities.
agree though, what a truly fantastic job she has done! I’m super proud of what she has created and now she’s back speaking to me again now, so all is good in the hood! In other animal madness, if you’re on social media, you would have seen our Alpaca adoration day! We are so fortunate that Brackenfield Alpacas let us pop over and walk some of their beautiful boys. You can see all about it online and if you fancy it yourself, why not enter our competition? It was awesome and it’s not just for the kids!!! See you next month,
Emily x I know that really, really, really deep down, and wayyyy after the fact when the task has been achieved, she loves it when I come up with these challenges but I’m not going to lie, it has not been easy, even for a talented painter like Lisa. I think you’ll all
P.S. Don’t forget to mention the ‘Voice’ when you use any of the companies in this magazine
Upcoming Submission Deadline for Advertisers & Contributors September edition - 13th August, October edition - 11th September
To advertise email info@voicemagazines.co.uk or call us on 01773 549 035 Printed by Phase Marketing, Design & Print and distributed to 5,000 homes in the Darley Dale area. Disclaimer: No responsibility is accepted by Voice Magazines Limited for claims, errors or omissions made in advertisements appearing in this issue. All advertisers are accepted in good faith and we are not for views expressed by contributor other sources. Reproduction of the contents of this magazine is not permitted without the prior Toresponsible advertise please call the orVoice Team on 01629 364 015 3 consent of the publisher. Voice Magazines Limited, 81 High Street, South Normanton, Derbyshire. DE55 2BP. Registered in England & Wales No: 10550557
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
From The Editor
HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW 10-12 JULY HB
£175
CHESTER AND THE WIRRAL PENINSULA 11-16 JULY HB
£450
SCOTLAND, ORKNEYS AND THE CASTLE OF MEY 19-24 JULY HB
£642
F6384
r e h t O s e c i v r Se
Local Independent Travel Agents LAKE DISTRICT STEAM & CRUISE 25-30 JULY HB £446
Get in touch today to book £410 your next dream holiday
COLCHESTER AND CONSTABLE COUNTRY 25-30 JULY HB
Package Holidays • Escorted Tours • Ski • City Breaks Lakes & Mountains • And Many More
EUROPEAN COACHING Cruises
IRELAND CAUSEWAY COASTER 27 JUNE-02 JULY HB
£568
GERMANY ROMANTIC RHINE 29 JULY-04 AUG HB
£807
PORTUGAL PORTO AND DOURO VALLEY 05-14 SEPT HB IRELAND COAST TO COAST 12-19 SEPT HB
£1057
£759 Tel: 01629 813 004 Email: alison@bakewelltravel.co.uk or jane@bakewelltravel.co.uk £956
ITALY DOLOMITES 25 SEPT-05 OCT HB
Travel House, Buxton Rd, Bakewell, DE45 1BZ
BELGIUM BRUGES XMAS MARKETS 29 NOV-02 DEC B&B
£308
DAY EXCURSIONS 2021 BROCHURE AVAILABLE CORONAVIRUS STATEMENT EARLY BOOKINGS ADVISABLE *ADMISSIONS Please INCLUDED OAP/CHILD NT MEMBERS note that all vehicles willADULT be thoroughly disinfected prior to every trip
SAT 22 MAY HARROGATE SAT 29 MAY WHITBY
and new air purification systems have been installed
BRITISH COACHING
£26
£28
WINDSOR & RHS WISLEY 30 AUG – 03 SEPT (HB) £415 THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 24 – 25 NOV (HB) & CASTLE HOWARD 26 – 28 NOV (HB) EASTBOURNE 28 AUG CHESTER – 1 SEPT (HB)/ CHESTER ZOO (ADMISSION£376 WED 2 JUNE NOT YORK, INC) HARROGATE£25 PAIGNTON 15 – 19 SEPT (HB) £387 LLANDUDNO HOLLY & MISTLETOE 29 NOV – 3 DEC (HB) SAT 5 JUNE LLANDUDNO £28 SIDMOUTH 26 – 30 SEPT (HB) £412 CHRISTMAS IN LLANBERIS 23 – 27 Dec (HB) MYSTERY – 3 OCT (HB) £121 CHRISTMAS IN CONSTABLE SAT 122 JUNE YORK £26 COUNTRY 23 – 27 Dec (HB) WALES, CARDIFF 4 – 8 OCT (HB) SUN 13 JUNE HARRY POTTER TOUR BEHIND THE ROPES OF WINDSOR CASTLE 7 – 8 OCT (B&B) SCOTLAND, ABERDEENSHIREWORLD 12-16 OCT (HB) SAT 19 AUTUMN JUNE GOLD BBCINGARDENERS TORQUAY 18 – 22 OCT (HB) SAT 26 JUNE WHITBY SCOTLAND, INVERNESS 24 – 28 OCT (HB)
COTSWOLDS MYSTERY EUROPEAN COACHING SAT 10 JULY LIVERPOOL IRELAND COAST TO COAST 12-19 SEPT (HB) SAT 17 JULY WINDSOR ITALY DOLOMITES 25 SEPT-05 OCT (HB) SAT 24BRUGES JULY XMAS TATTON PARK FLOWER BELGIUM MARKETS 29 NOV-02 DEC SHOW (B&B)
£441 £204 £435 £412 £428
SAT 3 JULY
£759 £956 £308
£190 £228 £413 £498 £494
£77 DAY EXCURSIONS £69 EARLY BOOKINGS ADVISABLE
£49
ADULT
*ADMISSIONS INCLUDED
SAT 14 AUG SAT 21 AUG SAT 4 SEPT SAT 11 SEPT SAT 18 SEPT SAT 18 SEPT SAT 25 SEPT SAT 02 OCT SAT 02 OCT
STRATFORD £28 UPON AVON SCARBOROUGH WHITBY £27 LLANDUDNO £25CARR RHS GARDENS* HARLOW HARROGATE £30 & CASTLETON HOLMFIRTH RHS£50 BRIDGEWATER * SALFORD QUAYS
£25 £27 £28 £28 £35 £26 £24 £28 £20
OAP /CHILD
NT MEMBERS
£27/£13.50
K.V.&G.L SLACK LTD. THE TRAVEL CENTRE, UPPER LUMSDALE, MATLOCK DE45LB www.slackscoaches.co.uk E& O.E 4
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
OTHER SERVICES
REVIEW • REVIEW • REVIEW • REVIEW • REVIEW
BRACKENFIELD ALPACAS
The Voice Magazine team were incredibly lucky to be invited for the unique experience of a 90-minute Alpaca trek which includes the opportunity to meet and feed all the lovely Alpacas.
of which had only been born a few hours before we arrived. Everyone was amazed at how big she was and how steady she was on her feet. They were all so cute staying close by their mothers. Happiness is a baby Alpaca!
We all arrived at Mount Pleasant Farm and our friendly hosts gave us a very entertaining and informative introduction to the Alpacas, the different varieties, their uses and a little about their individual personalities.
Continuing our trek, we visited lots of different areas of the farm, with plenty of photo opportunities. The Alpacas do tend to stop quite a lot enabling us to enjoy lots of Alpaca stroking, petting, and cuddling along the way (they are so soft and cuddly).
The alpacas were harnessed ready to go. Each chose the Voice team member they wanted to walk with, and we were off. There was lots stops to nibble grass and bushes (the Alpacas had a bit to eat as well!). First stop the area around the female Alpacas field enclosure where we all instantly fell in love with the baby Alpacas, one
We all had a fantastic time. I think each and every one of us would have happily taken at least one of the Alpacas home with us. Thank you for having us Brackenfield Alpacas we had a wonderful time.
PRIZE - Name the baby Alpaca and bring the family for a meet and greet with new mother Miss Fay, her baby and all the other Alpacas.
Last month the beautiful Miss Fay gave birth to her daughter. (Date – 20/7/2021, Time - 2pm weight- 10kg) The tan-brown ball of fluff is ready to be named. So, get your thinking caps on! We are running a competition to name the newborn baby Alpaca. The prize includes not only a meet and greet of both mother and baby but also a family ticket to do an alpaca trek with a meet and feed all the lovely alpacas at Brackenfield. To enter simply email your Alpaca baby names to the following email info@voicemagazines.co.uk with the title ‘Alpaca Baby Names Competition’, including your name and telephone number no later than 23rd August 2021 Brackenfield Alpacas gave us this information about Miss Fay:Miss Fay was born on the 2 July 2018 and weighed 11kgs, which is big for an Alpaca. As a result, she struggled to get underneath and to feed from Miss Lily (her mother) and very nearly died when she was a few days old. Our local vet, Fay, was able to save her and as a result we named her Miss Fay. Because she could not feed from her mother, we had to bottle feed her for the first 6 months. We trained her to run over to us when we whistled to get her bottle of milk. Since her rocky start she has flourished and grown into one of the biggest Alpacas on the farm. Despite this, we still call her ‘Little Miss Fay’, which is what we called her when she was a poorly baby. She was mated in 2020 with Arabian Night (a handsome chestnut brown Alpaca).
6
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
OTHER SERVICES
VISIT OUR FOUR LARGE SHOWROOMS Customers Own Car Park or RING FOR FREE HOME SELECTION SEVICE We Specialise In Supply & Fitting of all Domestic & Contract Carpets Supply & Fitting of all Domestic & Contract Vinyls Supply & Fitting of RealWood & Laminate Floorings Supply & Fitting of Karndean Floorings Supply & Fitting of Sisal & Natural Floorings Supply & Fitting of Border Work for Carpets & Carpet Runners
SS OF OUR FAMILY BUSINE S AR YE 2 15 G IN AT BR CELE We Offer
• Guaranteed Workmanship
(Following British Standard 5325 And TSI Approved Code of Practice)
• • • • • •
Free Fitting Service Free Estimating & Measuring Free Disposal of Old Carpet & Floorings Free Moving & Replacement of Furniture Trimming of Doors Insurance Work Undertaken & Free Insurance Quotes
43/47 High Street, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9DX Tel: 01246 863148 • See our WEBSITE at www.nutt.co.uk Opening times:
Monday,Tuesday,Thursday & Friday 9am to 5pm Wednesday 9am toTeam 12pm Saturday To advertise please call the Voice on&01629 3649am 015 to 4pm
7
Your £245 worth of ŠKODA Roadside Assistance starts now! We will be strengthening our aftersales proposition by adding a year’s complimentary Service Activated Roadside Assistance* with a service for eligible customers.
l a n o i s s Profe s e c i v r e S
Who is eligible? Customers who are coming in for their 3rd-10th oil and inspection service are eligible for a complimentary year of full UK and European Roadside Assistance worth £245. ŠKODA Chesterfield 1 Discovery Way, Whittington Moor, Chesterfield, S41 9EG 0330 108 0230 www.bristolstreet.co.uk/SKODA
LTD
*ŠKODA Roadside Assistance is arranged and administered by Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited, which is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 4EA. Registered in England and Wales number 2414212.
Paul Brown Manager Sales Account
549 035 T: 01773 966 411 .uk M: 07507 2BP icemagazines.co e • DE55 E: paul@vo n • Derbyshir
MAGNETIC BUSINESS CARDS
• South Normanto 81 High Street
tic Magne ess n i s Bu s Card
Quantity: 250
Material: 300gsm
FULLY INSURED
MB
hello@artliffdesign.com artliffdesign.com
8
OFFER
, ANY DIST ANCE FROM
BC_85
x 55mm
1
City & Guilds
3
s• • Hallway
• Bathroo
07/01/2020
Bespoke
Tiling business
14:14
L.indd 1
card_FINA
IAN’S HAN DYMA
N SERV ICES
• Joinery • Decora • Tiling • ting • Laminated Floors • • Plaster ing... and more! FREE NO OBLIGA TION QUOTA
GET IN TOUCH TION FOR A FREE E: ianshan QUOTAT dymans T: 07383 ION: ervices7 975 689 @gmail Ian’s handym .com an service
Lisa Art
Senior
Graph
liff
ic Desig
ner
07790 03817 3 01773 317 148 hello@ artliffd esign.c
ONLY £15
Time Served
vatories s • Conser
ms • Kitchen
COURIER SERVICE S
682 04
554 07882 864Tradesman
d 2001 Establishe
ltd
07542 ANY ITEM
01773 317 148
sional ete Profes
Service Bespoke Wall &Compl Floor Tiling e Tiling Steve Voc
B Eve e Seen ry day
Designed & Printed
GET IN TOUCH TO FIND OUT MORE!
ing Shopp List
om
artliffd
esign.c
om
14/02/20
20 13:05
£99.00 pply
*T&Cs A
OFFER RUNS UNTIL AUGUST 31ST 2021
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
OTHER SERVICES
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
9
0
Brand new ŠKODA Motability vehicles available from Nil Advance ŠKODA Chesterfield
1 Discovery Way, Whittington Moor, Chesterfield, S41 9EG 0330 108 0665 www.bristolstreet.co.uk/SKODA
BRISTOL STREET MOTORS CHESTERFIELD ŠKODA
For all your New, Used, Motability and Aftersales needs. ŠKODA Chesterfield 1 Discovery Way, Whittington Moor, Chesterfield, S41 9EG 0330 108 0230 www.bristolstreet.co.uk/SKODA Library images for illustrative purposes only.
10
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
Pitcherwits
®
Pitcherwits® are crossword puzzles where some of the clues are in pictures. Sound easy? It’s not called “Pit-yourwits” for nothing!
The mixture of cryptic and picture clues, combined with Professor Rebus’ unique sense of humour, will keep you entertained for hours. Across 5
Madly piling out of anglophilia to give Hawaiian hi (5)
7
Seem bedevilled a bit, by implant (5)
11 Bits of simple goodness for oneself (3) 12 Yobbo grabs a bit of mud (3) 16 Icon I re-drew as atomic (5) 17 System that’s badly upset (3-2)
Down 2
Rub out virtual sunshine, say? (5)
3
Creep round in paper (5)
10 Rambo, obviously giving a bit of disapproval! (3) 14 Avant-garde cordon bleu has interior style! (5) 15 Born as a lady, but a bit nosey (5)
Across
Down
1
See haircare that’s about to generate “Hooray!” (5,1,5)
1
Airdrops are ruled out for highway maintenance (4,7)
7
Metabolites not lost out in roof brace (3-4)
4
Images of X-rays wiped by a pro with a dishrag (11)
13 Singer who was an oil painting! (7)
5
Old empire said to be a bit truncated? (7)
18 Roll out new fares as suggested by Sun’s SOS’s? (5,6)
9
Bats away mob with such pompous talk (7)
ANSWERS FOR LAST MONTHS PITHERWITS Across: 1 Shrinking, 5 Mac, 6 Use, 7 Legible, 10 Bap, 11 Toccata, 12 Roe, 13 Corbels, 16 Ali, 17 Nor, 18 Exceeding. Down: 1 Sculptor, 2 Reel, 3 Kiwi, 4 Gamekeeper, 5 Marble cake, 8 Excel, 9 Boarding, 14 Bore, 15 Saki.
This puzzles has been devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
11
FOOD & RETAIL
and Guess the words rd! ! o w s s o r Fill in the c
FOOD & RETAIL
Food & Retail
Slimming World Recipe Cajun bacon pasta with ranch dressing Who said salads have to be boring! Quick and easy to make, Syn Free, packed full of flavour and it will keep you full for hours. What more could you ask for? Serves: 2 Ready in: 20 Syns per serving: FREE
Method: 1. Cook the pasta according to the pack instructions. 2. Meanwhile, put the cucumber, radishes and celery in a large bowl. Place a non-stick frying pan over a high heat and cook the bacon for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked. Chop into chunks and add to the bowl. 3. Mix the fromage frais, garlic, sliced spring onions, lemon zest and juice and some black pepper together in a bowl and set aside. 4. Drain the pasta, add to the salad and bacon bowl and mix everything together, then stir the dressing through the salad. Divide the salad between 2 bowls and sprinkle with the chopped spring onions and chives, plus a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients: • 200g dried pasta shapes
• Fresh chives, snipped, to serve
• ½ cucumber, diced
• Cajun seasoning* (see tip)
• 125g radishes, roughly chopped
• For the dressing:
• 2 celery sticks, sliced
• 5 tbsp fat-free natural fromage frais
• 6 back bacon • 1 small garlic rashers or clove, crushed medallions, visible • 2 spring onions, fat removed sliced • Spring onions, • Zest and juice of chopped, to serve ½ unwaxed lemon
For more information visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk
12
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
FOOD & RETAIL
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
13
FOOD & RETAIL
14
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
Man’s best friend - that’s how we think of dogs these days. From tiny Yorkies and Pomeranians to ginormous Malamutes and Great Danes, dogs share our lives, our food (sometimes without invitation!) and often our beds. Dogs - or rather their earlier incarnation… wolves - were the first animal to be domesticated by humans, archaeological evidence suggests this may have begun to happen at least 30,000 years ago. Like people, wolves are pack animals, they need other pack members to survive, and if a wolf puppy were accepted into a group of humans, it isn’t hard to see that his natural wolfish instincts would transfer to his ‘people pack’. Our early ancestors may have used their tamed wolves to help them hunt, and over time chose the traits they valued most to selectively breed animals - ultimately leading to the huge variety of dog breeds we know and love today. A more recent theory about the domestication of wolves has suggested that wolves to some extent selfdomesticated. Most wolves would have been wary and aggressive around humans, in competition for food, but there may have been some friendlier animals who were able to ingratiate themselves in return for a steady supply of food. We all know just HOW wonderfully friendly and appealing modern day dogs can be when food is involved, it isn’t too big a stretch in imagination to see how a lovable wolf could have become part of a human tribe! When researching this article I tried to establish how may different breeds of dogs there are, and the general consensus seems to be that no one really knows! The “Federation Cynologique International (FCI)” is the World Canine
association (99 members from around the globe) and it officially recognises 354 breeds, but there are probably many, many more. Why do we love our canine friends so much? Could it be the absolutely unquestioning devotion they give us? The companionship offered with no strings - other than providing food and fuss of course. And what makes dogs so loving and loyal towards their human families? The clue to these answers has already been mentioned - both humans and dogs (domesticated wolves!) are pack animals at heart. Humans have hierarchies, so do dogs, we understand each other at a very primal level, and remember the dogs we share our lives with today are descended from the original domesticated wolves who chose to live with their human neighbours (or were selected because they were friendly and loving). When our canine friends pass away (step over the rainbow bridge as some say) we grieve in exactly the same way as we do for a human family member. And when a dog loses a beloved owner, it is obvious they grieve too. Humans and dogs have lived together for thousands of years and there’s no sign of this changing, and we at Voice Magazines wouldn’t have it any other way! These articles are researched and written by Laura Billingham, a local content writer and author. Laura moved to the Peak District several years ago to pursue her passion for writing. To find out more visit www.landgassociates. co.uk or contact Laura on 07736 351341
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
15
FOOD & RETAIL
International Dog’s Day - 26 August
FOOD & RETAIL
Eclectic Delights of Serendipity Stockists of unique products
• Cheryl, Saffy & staff look forward to you visiting us and enjoying our lovely shops full of fabulous products in beautiful surroundings. • We are proud stockists of many British Companies including Wot ma Like, Zatchels, Frenchic, Waggy Dogz, Emma Ball, The Curious Pancake & Lucy Loves this to name just a few. • We open 7 days a week 11am until 5.30pm or later if the weather is good. • My Memento print your own items in store in minutes starting at £2.99 for personalised cards, magnets & keyrings. • Huge range of Helium balloons and cards for all occasions. • Our range of Children’s products both educational & fun has grown massively with Clockwork Soldier, Apples to Pears activity tins, Recycle me kits from Inside out toys and the fabulous Djecko range.
• Leather handbags, wallets, purses from Ashwood Leather & Zatchels. • Large Jewellery collections available in silver and precious stones including the famous ‘Blue John’ • Soft toys in all shapes & sizes from The Puppet Company, Wilberry, Suki plus Jomanda. • Arts & Crafts from Sweet Poppy Stencils, Stencil Studio, Faber & Castell & Creativ and we are Frenchic Stockists keeping as large a range as possible of this award winning paint. • Gifts from some quirky and original British companies including Wot Ma Like coasters and keyrings, Enamel Pins from Glitter Punk, The Curious Pancakes sweary pencils & pens through to the Beautiful Emma Ball ranges plus Waggy Dogz for all our Animal lovers. • We now have a large and eclectic range of clothing available at both our stores.
Shops at two locations Matlock Bath, South Parade. DE4 3NR
16
Hope, Hope Valley, Castleton Rd S33 6RD
Telephone 01629 593 990 or 07506 681 946 Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads www.eclecticdelightsofserendipity.co.uk
FOOD & RETAIL
Book Review
The transatlantic slave trade is a dark piece of British history. But just imagine if the story was reversed. If young people from the UK and Europe had been kidnapped from their homes and put on board slave ships for the New World. Blonde Roots by Booker prize winning Bernadine Evaristo turns history on its head and asks “what if?” It tells the story of Doris, a youngster with dreams of making something of her life. As she says, well that didn’t turn out, did it? When she arrives on a tropical island, after a harrowing sea voyage, she becomes, in the eyes of her new African owners, ugly, stupid, a savage. If this sounds a bit grim, then it is. But the author also uses humour, a sharp wit and human warmth to create a world which makes us look again at all the ways we think about “black” and “white”. It is, in places also really funny and forces us to wryly think about all the things we take for granted and the behaviour we think of as belonging to certain groups of people. It’s different, but very well worth the read.
Blinds, Curtains or Shutters Beautiful Plantation shutters
Bay windows are our speciality
Curtain poles and tracking
Blinds & Curtains to meet your budget
Choose from a vast selection of fabrics in the comfort of your own home so you can buy with confidence in the knowledge that we have over 30 years of professional experience.
Call us to book a home visit 01773
771 457 | 07733 184 208
email:premiersales@hotmail.co.uk www.premierblindsandcurtains.co.uk
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
17
CHESTERFIELD SHOP MOBILITY The only hire service in Chesterfield and the surrounding areas disability organisations in the Derbyshire area and was a real value add to the Charity. Both Colin and Christine can empathise with their customers as they have direct experience of the barriers people with a disability face as they both manage their own disabilities. Chesterfield shop mobility offer workshop repairs, long term, and short-term hire of scooters, they carry out regular checks and services on all scooters. The long-term loans of scooters have no time limit in fact, the longest long-term loan a customer accessed so far is 25 years.
This week I went along to shop mobility to meet the fantastic team. After getting slightly lost, I finally arrived on the ground floor of the multi-story car park on New Beetwell Street where Chesterfield Shop Mobility is based. This base is in the town centre of the beautiful market town of Chesterfield. As you can see from the picture, Chesterfield Shop Mobility have many scooters on offer, which they have all set out for you to view. 35 years ago, 3 people with the same disabilities met with Chesterfield Borough Council as they noticed that there were people struggling to get around Chesterfield and surrounding areas (Derbyshire being a very hilly place to live). They wanted a service for people to be able to accesses scooters when purchasing was out of their reach. Christine, along with two others, decided to set up shop mobility to assist the locals and visitors of Chesterfield and surrounding areas in their endeavours to circumnavigate Derbyshire and its varied attractions. Chesterfield & District Shop Mobility Charity started with 3 scooters opening 6 days a week. The services Shop Mobility provided become very popular very quickly. Shop Mobility worked together with Chesterfield community transport for many years, but separated into two Charities in 2005.
They also offer Tracks and trails, where they take special scooters for people to use on days out when the terrain is not suitable for none specialised scooters. They offer guided days out and a drop off / collection service. These services are currently used by Queens Park, Chesterfield Canal, Holmebrook Valley Country Park, and other venues. To find out more please go to the Shop Mobility Facebook page or call Shop Mobility for more detail. Christine, seen here on power chaired, says “this is far more comfortable than a manual wheelchair” for people who are in wheelchairs for most of the day this offers a more comfortable alternative. This power chaired even has a recline feature. Colin is seen here on the tracks and trails scooter, just as its name says, it is a specialised scooter for use on track and trails where other scooters would struggle. Shop Mobility Chesterfield can drop your scooter to you at the start of your trail and collect it when your all finished. Even if your finish line differs from your start line. Anthony is seen here on the town centre service scooter, ideal to get in and out of the town centre the shops. Elaine is seen here on the boot scooter; this scooter is ideal for holidays and days out. It folds to fit in most boot spaces and is the perfect addition to any day trip or holiday.
In 2010 Christine’s husband Colin joined the Charity, Colin has over 30 years of experience working within
18
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Opening times: Monday – Saturday 10am – 4:30pm Ltd
Wheelchair and Electric Scooter Hire *Daily *Short and long term *Breakdown and Repair service *Safety checks * Scooter and Wheelchair driving tests available Look out for our events in your area Ground Floor Multi-Story Car Park New Beetwell Street Chesterfield S40 1QR 01246 559331 Registered Charity No: 1136369 Company No: 07106728
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
19
& s d i K y l i m a F
RECEPTION AND KEY STAGE 1 SUPPORT WITH READING, WRITING, AND NUMERACY THROUGH ONLINE TUTORING USING STORIES AND ACTIVITIES 18 years teaching experience specialising in Reception (4-5 year olds) Hannah Carter-Wood • T:07887 568405 hannahlwood@hotmail.com
NEED HELP WITH YOUR MARKETING MATERIALS?
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
Logo design Bus cards, letterheads, comp slips, NCR pads Banners, brochures, leaflets & workwear Website design Social media banners & adverts ...and so much more!
R
POSTE
FLYE
R
GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION t: 01773 549 035 e: info@voicemagazines.co.uk
20
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
INTERVIEWS...
FOCUS ON LEARNING Voice Magazines recently had the pleasure of chatting to Sandra Smith, a secondary school maths teacher of 29 years standing. Sandra, who hails originally from Nottingham, has created a series of exercise books aimed primarily at 11 to 16 year olds but also suitable for a younger age range. We asked her what had inspired her and how these books could help children succeed both at school and in life. Talking to Sandra it is crystal clear that she is absolutely passionate about teaching and helping children to learn and grow…this is her WHY, her driving purpose and is what led to the creation of the books. The original idea of blank books with a contents page at the front, came to her back in November 2015 after she had asked the class she was teaching to locate a particular piece of work and saw how difficult that was for the children. Sandra jotted down that germ of an idea in a notebook, but it was November 2019 before she began to think about it again, and this time she realised that adding simple motivational quotes to each page would make the concept even stronger. In her own words, “it only takes one word or key phrase to inspire a child and sow the seeds for them to take charge of their own learning.” Focus Learn Book Company was born out of Sandra’s desire to get the exercise books published, printed and out to the people who need them children. So what exactly are these exercise books, and how can they help children towards success?
with your children at home could help them to stay on track, as Sandra’s experience has shown that children respond in an overwhelmingly positive way to the design, layout, and motivational quotes, and actually enjoy using the books which helps the learning process. Currently available in Maths, Science and English, there are plans afoot to increase the range and Sandra’s dream is that one day every child will have access to the books, and they will be readily accessible in our high street bookshops.
COMPETITION TIME WIN a set of Focus on Better Learning exercise books (Maths, English & Science)
They are very different to the traditional plain exercise books children currently use to write up their work, being A4 in size with striking covers, a contents page to enable the pupils (and teachers) to keep track of their work, and lined pages to assist with handwriting. The pages feature inspirational and motivational quotes such as, “Simple little daily habits create big success.” and “It’s OK to make mistakes, you can learn from them.” Sandra has used the books within her own teaching and says they make the children want to learn.
To enter simply email the answer to the following question to info@voicemagazines.co.uk with the title ‘Focus Comp’, including your name and telephone number.
As we are all too aware, children have missed a lot of classroom time over the past year or so due to COVID-19, and many schools will probably be providing children with ‘catch up work’ to do over the summer holidays. Using these exercise books
Using code: Focusbooks21
What subject does Sandra Smith teach?
10% DISCOUNT for Voice Customers
www.focuslanebookcompany.com Offer ends 31st July 2021
These articles are researched and written by Laura Billingham, a local content writer and author. Laura moved to the Peak District several years ago to pursue her passion for writing. To find out more visit www.landgassociates.co.uk or contact Laura on 07736 351 341
Love learning locally
Autumn 2021 Courses and Free Tasters
Get inspired and start a new journey of discovery! We’re here to support you to learn with a wide range of online and centre-based courses.
Don’t miss out!
Try one of the FREE taster sessions we have put on in the weeks beginning Monday 16 and 23 August and the week beginning Monday 13 September. You can book onto our August tasters from Monday 19 July. You can book onto our September tasters and the rest of our Autumn term leisure courses from Tuesday 31 August. All bookings are through our Eventbrite page derbyshireadulteducation.eventbrite.com
Look out for our Autumn Brochures!
Our qualifications brochure will be available from Monday 19 July and our leisure courses brochure will be available from Monday 16 August. To view the brochures, find out Find us on more about our courses and how to book visit: Eventbrite www.derbyshire.gov.uk/adulteducation /DerbyshireAdultEducation @DerbyshireACE Sign up to Adult Community Education News at www.derbyshire.gov.uk – “subscribe for updates”
22
Education & Skills
Agency Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding toFunding the Ads
£50
HGV, Bus, Taxi, Racing etc.
Includes
Eye Test, Examination by a Doctor, Form completion
Fully Insured with 30 Years Experience
Professional Mobile Hairdressing Service Call Sue On: 01629 314012
Email: sue@salonathome.co.uk www.salonathome.co.uk
EAR WAX REMOVAL
£80
by Consultant Ear Surgeon
PRIVATE EAR, NOSE & THROAT CONSULTATIONS Why wait on the NHS? See our Sheffield-based Consultant ENT Surgeon Blocked nose, Deafness, Dizziness, Sinusitis Tinnitus,Voice problems, Second opinions etc.
£190
MEETING,CONSULTING & THERAPY ROOMS Occasional & Regular Sessional Rental
HUNTBRIDGE HALL MATLOCK GREEN Free parking & step-free access
Tel.www.huntbridgehall.co.uk 01433 639100 YOUR INDEPENDENT HEARING CARE SPECIALIST Hearing Aids All the latest Aids to suit all budgets
Friendly Service Unlimited aftercare We have our own private carpark at our new clinic in Alfreton. Literally drive from door to door to see us without coming into contact with anyone else. We are wearing PPE equipment at the moment so unfortunately you won’t see us smile, but we assure you of a warm welcome.
10 High Street, Alfreton, Derbyshire. DE55 7BN
www.stephentoon.org Tel: 01773 687060
Tailored to your individual needs
Earwax Safe removal by a qualified Audiologist
using all techniques including microsuction Home visits made by arrangement One ear £50 both ears £70
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 01773 549 364 035 015
23
HEALTH & BEAUTY
DRIVING MEDICALS
Local, Professional Veterinary Care Opening Hours
Pets
Mon - Fri 08:30 – 19:00 Saturday 08:30 – 13:00
Experienced and Caring Team On-Site 24/7 Emergency Service Free On-Site Parking
PETS FARM EQUINE
(01629) 812744 (01629) 812035 (01629) 810351
Bakewell Veterinary Clinic Limited Milford Farm, Mill Street, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1DX
Top 10 First Aid Tips AVVM0927 (Bakewell Vets Q).indd 1
ts protected
26/02/2017 00:51
from
1.
Accidents can happen at any time, it is important to be prepared for any eventuality. Be prepared! Create or purchase a first aid kit.
2.
First Aid is precisely that. They’re the first steps to providing aid for your pet, the aim is to prevent damage, not cause it.
3.
If a pet becomes distressed, STOP.
4.
Always follow up any administration of first aid with a check-up with your vet.
5.
Never give human medicines to animals.
6.
Ensure the safety of yourself and others around you. Make sure you keep calm and assess the situation.
7.
Distressed or injured animals may demonstrate behavioural traits not usually associated with them so speak quietly and reassuringly to your pet.
8.
Move slowly to prevent any further distress and stay in view of your pet.
9.
Always phone ahead and contact your vet as soon as possible.
They sound horrible. 10. Do not to manage serious situations your own. And totrybe honest, theyonare.
ok24a visitDon’t with today to startwhen a responding to the Ads forgetus to mention Voice Magazines
Home s t n e m e v o Impr
TV, DAB AND FM AERIAL INSTALLATIONS DIGITAL INSTALLATIONS AND REPAIRS SATELLITE REPAIRS FREESAT INSTALLATIONS EXTRA TV POINTS
Qualified Engineer 10% OAP DISCOUNT - FREE CALL OUT All Work Guaranteed, No VAT CHANNELS MISSING? PICTURE BREAKING UP? TEL: DARREN ON 01246 590756 MOB: 07785 568368
www.dgtvandaerials.co.uk
•
Full project management
•
All building trades covered
•
Structural alterations, attic & garage conversions.
•
Plans drawn up & BCO notices.
•
Fully insured
•
Serving the Hope Valley & surrounding areas since 2004
Please call Julian to arrange a FREE no obligation visit
07980 988 768
julian.69@uwclub.net www.cressbrook.biz To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
25
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
DG TV & AERIAL SERVICES
Heritage Window Specialist Enhance the Style, Value and Appearance of your home with the very latest Wood, uPVC and Aluminium Bespoke Windows & Doors. Unrivalled Quality & Specification, Manufactured in the UK by Craftsmen.
Call our friendly team on 0115 855 6010 hello@hardwickwindows.co.uk • www.hardwickwindows.co.uk SHOWROOM AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL FOR DETAILS.
CALL US NOW Tel: 07768 404830 07766 722035
66410
C3836
Local company with many years of experience of plumbing and heating services, we are proud to offer solutions or advise for your home. • Boiler repairs & maintenance (Gas or Oil)
• Valliant accredited (10 years Guarantee)
• Boiler upgrades & installation
• Worcester accredited (10 years Guarantee)
• New oil tanks & bases • Radiators & under floor heating
• Grant G1 certificate on Oil & Air source heat pumps
0% FINANCE AVAILABLE ON VAILLANT AND GLOW-WORM BOILERS All other boiler makes and models fitted, maintained and serviced.
26
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
My Right Knee A Poem by Mr Tony Ashmore When I was walking in the park one day I heard a bird singing in a tree When I looked up it Shi, made a mess on me Next thing was, I tripped and hurt My Right Knee Sat on a bench with my girlfriend next to me She said “Shall we go home and I will make you a mug of tea” Sat in the garden with a mug of tea with cream on My Right Knee I heard a bird singing in a tree So I said “Don’t you start that again”
ROOFING We are a small family business who offer many roofing related services Friendly and professional team with 35 years of experience Please call us for a FREE quotation
01773 848477 www.countymcandrewsroofing.co.uk To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
27
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Visit our showroom at Chapel Street Belper DE56 1AR
5* Reviews 15 years experience Family business
Book your free home measure and consultation today
01773 824196
28
www.sonnakitchens.co.uk Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads info@sonnakitchens.co.uk
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
SUDOKU #13
Fill in all the numbers! This is a sudoku 1 square grid 81 cells 9 3x3 blocks
!
1 simple rule: Use all the numbers 1-9, with no duplicates allowed, in any row, column, or block. This puzzles has been devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk
Sleek, clean & cosy with a fire from Peak Fireplaces Over 100 contemporary and traditional fireplaces, stoves, gas and electric fires, many on live display in our showroom
Peak
FIREPLACES
• FREE CAR PARK •
Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm. 10-12 Broadleys, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9JL
www.peakfireplaces.com
Tel: 01246 865062
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
29
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Take to the Skies, Life's too Short Pat and Ian Farr of Newton had a busy weekend flying. On Saturday 12th of June Ian undertook a Wing Walk to celebrate his 75th birthday in April and to ask sponsors to support local charities instead of buying birthday gifts. This was very successful. Pat, a Battle of Britain baby, celebrated her 80th birthday last year. Amongst her gifts was a flight in a Spitfire which she willingly undertook on the 13th of June. Having flown over London, she also flew two victory rolls before being handed control of this short-range, high-performance interceptor aircraft that came into its own during the Battle of Britain.
Not bad going for an 80 year old great granny. - Pat and Ian Farr
30
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
12 YEARS
Complete peace of mind Up to 12 years manufacturer’s guarantee on new gas boiler installations and up to 7 years on new oil boilers – only available when installed by a D Butterworth Plumbing & Heating Ltd.*
Expert domestic plumbing and heating services: : Boiler installation specialists s Gas, LPG and oil l Boiler servicing and repair • Radiators and underfloor heating g General plumbing works s: Finance payment options available
*Ts&Cs apply
Get in touch for your free, no obligation quote: 07811 646690 | d.butterworth11@btinternet.com www.dbutterworthplumbingandheating.co.uk (based in Monyash, near Bakewell)
➤ Fascia & Soffits Replacements
➤ Vast Range Of Colours & Styles ➤ Dry Verge-Covers
➤ Shiplap Cladding ➤ Concrete Gutter Replacements
➤ All Maintenance Work Undertaken
FASCIAS-SOFFITS-GUTTERING-SPECIALIST Tel: 01773 848340 info@familiarfascias.co.uk | www.familiarfascias.co.uk To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
31
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
FINANCE AVAILABLE ON VAILLANT BOILERS
24 Hour Service
Competitive call out fees & hourly rates
Credit/Debit Cards Accepted NOW OFTEC REGISTERED
• Boiler Servicing and breakdowns (inc Oil Boilers) • Plumbing & Heating • Bathroom Design & Installation • Emergency Call Out • Domestic & Commercial Natural Gas & LPG • Tiling • Joinery • Electrical • Plastering • Drain Unblocking 618508
tel: 01246 569183
mob: 07597 386791
Derbyshire Dales Electrical Services Ltd All Domestic and Commercial work undertaken Security lighting and CCTV systems Inspection and testing Landlords/Buyers Reports
Contact Paul on 07909 225 592 or 01629 259 311 or by e-mail at ddaleselectrical@gmail.com
Est. 1985
Professional Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist We specialise in cleaning deeply soiled items Full Insurance on all work
Call Paul
Tel: 01629 814263 • Moble: 07973 671 386
32
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
NEW OFFER FOR 2021
DISCOVER THE BEAUTIFUL VALLEY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD! For the first time ever, volunteers at two of the main attractions in the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site are coming together in a new venture to share their astounding expertise with the public. Cromford Mills and Strutt’s North Mill in Belper are running a programme of escorted full day tours of the historic valley, taking in all the popular sites and some fascinating lesser-known ones. Trevor Griffin, the volunteer team manager said, “The team must have over a century of experience between them in leading tours and each one has learnt a lot more about the valley in order to spread their professionalism wider. We know that people will enjoy spending their day being personally escorted and looked after by very knowledgeable and entertaining people.” The tours are part of an experiment funded through Great Place, a joint National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England Scheme. The Chair of the Great Place Scheme Board, Professor Ian Whitehead, said “It’s important to look at new ideas which engage wider audiences with the World Heritage Site and its stories. The Experiment Fund has been a great opportunity for us to test out some of those ideas,
and we hope the tours will be a great success for the valley.” There are three different tours on offer. One covers the highlights and takes in Cromford Mills, the Cromford Canal, the High Peak Railway, Belper Mill and Darley Abbey, with walking tours and visits. The two other tours give a more detailed exploration of the Cromford and Belper areas generally. Guests are picked up in either Derby or Matlock and tours provide value for money lunch opportunities. A great deal of care is being taken to make tours covid secure with restricted numbers and the use of personal audio equipment to always allow social distancing. Tickets are currently on offer at an incredible bargain price of just £25, through the Derwent Valley Tours website. This initiative could generate further cooperation between the various attractions in the valley to make this part of Derbyshire take its well-deserved position as a major tourist destination. It also pioneers green tourism in that it allows people to visit and get around the area while leaving their cars behind, reducing congestion and pollution.
To find out more and book your place visit
www.derwentvalleytours.co.uk 33
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
GARY BEECH EXTERNAL CLEANING SERVICES
www.windowcleaningderbyshire.co.uk Tel: 01629 825 340 • Mob: 07899 034 738
Roof Cleaning & Moss Removal
Patio’s, Driveways & Decking Cleaned & Sealed Window & Conservatory Cleaning Dirty Gutters??
Our high powered system makes light work of any gutter and you can see the results instantly
Free Quotes & Fully Insured
We also& offer Cleaning We also offer a Chimney Sweep Stove Roof Installation Service and Moss Removal
www.chimneysweepmatlock.co.uk
Tel: 01629 825 340 • Mob: 07899 034 738
Full Chimney Sweep and Stove Cleaning Services • Professional clean & maintenance of chimney & fireplaces • Bird nest removal • Installation of chimney bird guards • Complete installation of log burners, stoves and fires
Dirty Gutters??
Our high powered system makes light work of any gutter and you can see the results instantly
Free Quotes & Fully Insured
We also offer Roof Cleaning & Moss Removal 34
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
Sliding, Sash & Mock Sash Specialist
Bay windows restored & double glazed Portfolio of over 300 windows
FREE QUOTES A PLEASURE
C.H.Joinery
QUALITY NATURAL STONE SUPPLIES Nationwide delivery Available
Indian paving Setts & Cobbles Reclaimed Paving Circles Barrels Porcelain Paving Troughs Sleepers
Call Liam on 01298 84173 | M: 07977 589 305
www.penninepaving.co.uk | sales@penninepaving.co.uk | Newhaven, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 0DU
Gardener’s Calendar
Watering can be a tricky thing, especially with a fruit as temperamental as the heavenly tomato. There are of course years when it’s too cold or wet for them to even make much effort. But even in a good year, they also have a tendency towards splitting or the dreaded blossom end rot – where they go black at the base. A basic rule of thumb is to water deeply, from the base, but not to over-water. Push your finger about an inch into the soil or compost and if it feels dry, water, but don’t leave the plant sitting in water. Blossom end rot comes from irregular watering and lack of calcium; cracking from too much water which makes the pulp inside swell faster than the outside skin can stretch. You can still eat split toms, just harvest them fairly quickly as they may start to rot if the flesh is exposed. Tomatoes which have started to change colour will ripen on or off the vine. As the trusses grow – ideally about five or six per plant - remove the lower leaves of the plant to prevent disease. All a bit of a faff, but worth it when you taste them just-picked. Cut back herbs now to get a fresh flush before the first frosts in autumn. Dry and freeze for winter food flavour. If you deadhead your lilies you’ll get a better show of blooms next year. Collect seeds if you want to grow more of your own plants next year. Pick dry (i.e. brown red or black) seed heads and put somewhere to dry before shaking or crushing. Discard chaff (anything that isn’t a seed.) Some seeds can be sown now and overwintered and others can be kept in labelled packets and either left somewhere dry or stored in a fridge at about 5 degrees.
r
Top Tip Try to turn your compost about once a month at the moment, or at least give it a good poke. This helps aerate and speeds up decomposition. 06/11/2018 18:16
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
35
GARDENS
s n e d r Ga
Wooden Windows
DERBY FULL SAFE SURE FOOTED-NO-PRICE-OL-HR.pdf
1
17/12/2020
14:57
GreenhousesRus VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.GREENHOUSESRUS.CO.UK
YOUR LOCAL GREENHOUSE SPECIALIST
SUPPLIER OF GREENHOUSES & ACCESSORIES. C
SUPPLIER OF ALL MAIN BRANDS ON THE MARKET.
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
INSTALLATION SERVICE
K
AVAILABLE.
01623 443331
ROADSWEEPING NOW OFFERING A NEW SERVICE! DRAIN INSPECTION CAMERAS
ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS Our Services include:
• Septic Tank Emptying & Repairs • • • • •
36
Drain Jetting Drain Repairs Groundswork Road Sweeping Gully Emptiying
• Dust Supression • High Pressure Drain Jetting • CCTV drain inspection
Andy: 07831 310731 Ashley: 07787 074414 email: jandasweep@tiscali.co.uk office: 01629 815222 Ashford in the Water, Bakewell, DE45 1PY
Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
GARDENS
A garden room isn’t just a room in your garden…
The Perfect Escape. Holiday at home...
it’s a room that adds value to your life, and your home. With 20 years experience in designing, manufacturing and installing garden buildings throughout the UK you can trust that Cabin Master will deliver you The Perfect Space for your garden, such as a Garden Office, Gym, Mancave, Garden Bar, Entertaining Space or Spare Room.
with a BBQ cabin. It can become the heart and soul of your garden. Our trademarked sloping wall design not only gives the cabins an unmistakable silhouette, it also makes them very comfortable and enables you to sit back and relax whilst enjoying countless days and nights with your favourite people.
Free Site Surveys
Free Design Service
www.cabinmaster.co.uk www.arcticcabins.co.uk Call: 0115 932 8888
No Obligation Quotes
Flexible Finance Available
Visit Our Open Air Cabin Master Village With 22 Stunning Buildings On Display Opening times: Monday - Sunday 10am - 4pm The Rose Gardens, 251 Toton Lane, Stapleford, Nottingham NG9 7JA.
To advertise please call the Voice Team on 01629 364 015
37
GARDENS
Peak Damsels on the rise
If the weather is good, then from springtime onwards local ponds and lakes become the haunt of a delightful group of insects called ‘damselflies’. These delicate creatures are the smaller cousins of the much bigger and indeed more butch ‘dragonflies’. The two types of ‘odonata’ are in fact easy to tell apart. The damsels are much smaller and more delicate with thin pencil-like bodies and when at rest their wings lie lengthwise along the body. The dragons on the other hand have much bigger, heavier bodies and cannot close their wings; instead, these stick out sideways when resting. These insects spend most of their lives as aquatic nymphs and during that time they grow and periodically burst out of their old skin to expand into a new one. Having gone through up to fifteen moults before the final event from which they subsequently hatch as adults, the process takes a variable amount of time. Depending on the species and the location, the aquatic phase of damsels and dragons can be from as little as two months to up to three years. These water-dwelling larvae are voracious predators though the smaller damsel larvae with characteristic external gills at the end of their ‘tail’ or abdomen, take proportionately lesser prey such as mosquito larvae and other ‘minibeasts’ of the pond or stream. Interestingly, unlike other winged insects such as butterflies and moths, dragonflies and damselflies do not pupate to undergo a process called complete metamorphosis. Instead of this radical process they undergo ‘incomplete metamorphosis’ which means they transition directly from larva into adult. This change is effectively the final larval moult and takes place out of water. Day length and ambient
temperature are the key triggers for metamorphosis, and for some species this is synchronised with many individuals emerging together. This can happen in garden ponds for instance with large red damselflies emerging en masse as adults. If you look carefully at emergent pond vegetation then you may see the abandoned dried out husklike skins of the larvae attached above the waterlevel. Some species like common blue damselflies and large red damselflies for example, may be abundant in your garden pond but you can easily overlook them. There are different ‘blue’ damsels and the key to identification is in the patterning of blue and black down the ‘tail’ or abdomen. Of course, this may be hard to spot when they are in flight! Another group of damsels that is currently spreading across our region is the ‘demoiselles’ and these are absolutely stunning. There are two main species nationally, the ‘beautiful demoiselle’ and the ‘banded demoiselle’. It is the latter which we now see along riversides and streamsides in lowland areas. So watch out for these on riverside walks along the Derbyshire Wye or Derwent for example.
Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and environmental issues in the Peak District and elsewhere, is contactable on info@hallamec.plus.com. Follow his website www.ukeconet.org, blog 38 Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads ianswalkonthewildside, & Twitter @IanThewildside
H O L I DAY L E T I N F I L E Y
Enjoy your next family holiday with a stay at the delightful Glenview House. An elegant and comfortable holiday home just a 5 minute gentle stroll from award-winning Filey beach. ✽ 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms ✽ A fully enclosed garden ✽ Garage parking ✽ Two dogs are welcome free of charge ✽ Games Room with large screen TV and Table Football ✽ 5 minutes walk to the dog-friendly beach ✽ On the Wolds Way and Cleveland Way National trail ✽ Next to Filey golf club ✽ Opposite Glen Gardens park with its playground, trampoline and boating lake ✽ Walking distance to a range of dog friendly pubs, cafes, and restaurants ✽ We have fast fibre Wi-Fi and smart TV’s
CONTACT US THROUGH OUR WEBSITE FOR A DISCOUNT ON 2021 BOOKINGS!
www.glenviewfiley.com
