Nene Valley Living April 2013

H el p i n g

you

to

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living

NENE VALLEY LIVING food/fashion/health

&

beauty/home

&

LOCALLY

garden/lifestyle

Happy chickens

Keeping hens at home Gardens to inspire Tips from the top

ÂŁ1.50 APRIL 2013

@LocalLivingUK

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

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9 771740 052017 NVLAPRILCOVER.indd 1

10th Anniversary issue 21/3/13 20:53:24

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LARGE SHOWROOM

We have a large selection of the latest contemporary stoves by all leading manufacturers

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• NVL April ADS.indd 2

Unit 7 Orion Way, The Constellations, Kettering Business Park NN15 6NL Email: colesforfires@hotmail.co.uk www.colesforfires.co.uk 20/3/13 14:04:11

N ENE VA L L EY LIVING

Cover image:: Chickens by local artist Sam Purcell www.sampurcell.co.uk

This Issue A PRIL 2013

10th ANNIVERSARY ISSUE I

t’s our tenth anniversary this month.

The magazine started life as Peterborough Living and, as our circulation broadened, we transformed first into Nene Living and now Nene Valley Living. As a free magazine which is distributed, in the main, through the letterbox, we’re always mindful that we are an uninvited guest in your home. The aim is to be entertaining, informative and essentially, very local, to help you get the most out of living in the area. Of course, we can’t please all the people all of the time, but I’m pleased to say that most of the feedback I get is positive and polite.

You seem to especially enjoy our walks, our food reviews and our ‘spotlights’ on local towns. It would be impossible to produce a magazine without a loyal team behind the scenes, and we’re so lucky to have a great team of writers, designers Steve Handley and Nik Ellis, ad manager Bridget Steele, who makes our survival possible, distribution manager Rachel Beecroft, and of course, our publisher and owner Nicholas Rudd-Jones who started the whole thing off.

To celebrate our tenth birthday, we’re creating a Nene Valley Living Facebook page. We hope that readers and advertisers will use this as a forum to share information, swap recommendations, announce new ventures, alert shoppers to new season’s stock and generally spread the word about what they are doing. Why not pop in, have a look, and ‘like’ us if you want to. Meanwhile, Nicholas has twitter @ LocalLivingUK, on which he shares lots of breaking local news and stories in the Stamford and Peterborough areas.

Here’s to the next ten years…

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

5 Editor’s selection

25 Health and beauty notes

7 Upfront

29 The philosophical life of Peterborough

Spring fashion and homewares

Jools Holland plays Burghley House

8 Upfront

Visit Mauritius

11 Upfront

Carluccio’s reviewed

12 Upfront

Two local schools advise on topical issues

14 Garden inspirations Beautiful local destinations

16 April ideas

All the latest from local businesses

Deep thinking

30 Could you volunteer?

Why helping others can help you

32 Motoring news Ashley Martin reports

35 Walk of the month

In and around Manton, near Uppingham

37 Diary dates

Great things to do this month

Spring gardening column

19 Transform your plot Local companies on hand to help

20 Raising chickens Fresh eggs for breakfast?

22 Food news

The Northwick Arms, Ketton, reopens Editor Fiona Cumberpatch fiona@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Nene Valley Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: localliving@btopenworld.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne

W W W. B E S T L O C A L L I V I N G . C O . U K

@LocalLivingUK

For £20 (UK only) you can subscribe to Nene Valley Living for 12 issues. Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: NVL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe online – go to www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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THE OLD BARN WADENHOE NOW OPEN Set in the beautiful village of Wadenhoe • Light Lunches & Set 2 Course Daily Special • Afternoon Tea - Home Made Cakes & Preserves

Elinor holiday cottages are a fantastic luxury 2012 conversion of redundant farm buildings set next to a trout lake with some of the best unspoilt scenery in Northamptonshire.

The two self-catering cottages are both on ground floor and ideal for disabled access.

For details, please contact Tim and Beverley Hankins on 01832 720614 - 07798 518 453 07718 608 129 www.peartreefarm.net

• Inside & Outside Seating GIFTS • IRONWORK • CRAFTS • PLANTS SHRUBS • BAY TREES • OLIVE TREES

Theme nights once a month. Booking essential • Mexican Banquet on the 27th April

Spring plants now in stock

Open 7 days a week 9.30am - 5.30pm

All enquires welcome, please call:

01832 721129

Open Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 4 Elton Road, Wansford, PE8 6JD - Tel: 01780 783334

Visit Wansford and enjoy the lovely shops we have including The Wansford Cakery, Daisy Chain Collectables and Boheme dress shop.

SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living HELpiNg

Call 01778 34 7000 www.tallingtonlakes.com

For £20 you can subscribe to Nene Valley Living for 12 issues. Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: NVL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY. Or visit www.bestlocalliving.co.uk to subscribe online

You

to

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tHE

NENE VALLEY LIVING food/fashi on/health

happy chickens

&

most

out

beauty/hom e

of

&

LiViNg

LoCALLY

garden/lif estyle

keeping hens at home gardens to inspire tips from the top

£1.50 ApRiL 2013 www.bestLoCALl

iving.Co.uk

04 9 771740 052017

10th AnniversAry issue

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F r es h A p r i l fa sh i on, acces s or ies and hom eware

Editor’s selection 2

PiP Studio cappuccino cup and saucer £9.99, Reba, 1 Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH www.rebaboutique.co.uk

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Striped dress, £59, by KIN at John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

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Maileg rabbit toys, £16.45 each, from www.mouseinabox.co.uk

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Lovebird print blouse, £32.99, Reba, 1 Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH

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Pink jacket, £69, Monsoon, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

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Vintage Bakelite style coral flower pendant, £22, and flower earrings, £25, Reba, details as before.

Party pom poms, from a selection at Hobbycraft, Peterborough Garden Park

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Icarus sandals, £50, Office, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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• NVL April ADS.indd 6

20/3/13 14:05:14

W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront ASK THE

expert

How tax efficient are you?

Jools Holland plays Burghley House Don’t miss the chance to see Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra in the spectacular setting of Burghley House on June 8th. As always, Jools brings some famous friends along with him, and special guests include Roland Gift (of Fine Young Cannibals fame), Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Gilson Lavis.

• Tickets cost £37.50 each, from www.burghley.co.uk, or from Stamford Arts Centre on 01780 763203. A 24 hour hotline is SEE Tickets on 0844 2097364. It should be a night to remember.

Breast cancer support in Peterborough If you have had breast cancer or are currently being treated for it, you may like to attend the Peterborough Breast Cancer Support Group. It’s a friendly group which meets on the first Thursday of every month from 7pm-9pm at Holiday Inn West (formerly The Moat House) at Thorpe Wood, Peterborough.

Subscription for those attending is £2 with a hot drink and biscuits. The group arranges for speakers to attend, and Breast Cancer Specialist nurses are at every meeting, so you can chat informally with them about aspects of treatment or side effects. Alternatively, members just like to meet and socialise with fellow sufferers in a supportive and confidential environment. Volunteers are happy to take new members to their first meeting, or to share more about the group over the phone before you come along.

• Call Denise Wheeler, chair person, on 01733 341491 or email denise.wheeler@sky.com The website address is www. peterboroughbreastcancersupport group.co.uk. The group is open to people in Peterborough and surrounding areas.

Invest in some shutters Cool in summer, warm in winter, easy to clean and stylish to look at, shutters are a great investment for your home. Peterborough company J&S Interiors supply and fit made to measure shutters which will fit any shape or size window, even round ones. “Shutters are great because after the initial outlay, they are easy and economical to look after,” says Sean Webster of J&S. “They suit modern or traditional homes, and come in a tasteful palette of colours.” The shutters are made to measure by S:Craft, who guarantee that their product is produced from sustainable wood.

J&S provide a free quotation and if you want to go ahead will then measure and fit the shutters for you. “It takes about 8-10 weeks from ordering to installation,” explains Sean.

The advantage of shutters is that they block out light effectively, reduce noise levels and improve privacy without the need for drawn curtains. They are also ideal for people who suffer with allergies as they are so easy to keep clean.

• For more information, or to arrange a quote, contact Sean Webster at J&S Interiors on 01733 558864. 30 Phorpres Close, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8FZ www.jandsinteriors.uk.com

The new tax year starts on April 6.

Kerry Hilliard of accountancy firm Stephenson Smart & Co gives a timely reminder that a regular review of your tax affairs could reduce the tax that you pay

The personal tax allowance increases to £9,440 and there are also changes to the various income tax bands and rates. Given that these allowances cannot be transferred between spouses or civil partners, it is important to make maximum use of them. Consider gifting assets to distribute income more evenly or making an election to change the split of income relating to jointly owned assets. Business owners might employ their spouse or take them into partnership as a way of redistributing income (though this must be a commercially justifiable arrangement).

Children have their own allowances and tax bands and savings can be achieved by transferring income generating assets to them. This is ineffective if the source of the asset is a parent, so consider transferring assets from a relative or making use of the junior ISA or Child Trust Fund. If you receive child benefit then you may have to pay it back if either you or your partner earn more than £50,000. It might be possible to reduce the impact of this by giving to charity, making pension contributions or reviewing how profits are extracted from your family business.

Tax relief is available on donations made under Gift Aid. In certain circumstances, donations made between April 6 2013 and January 31 2014 can be offset against 2012-13 income. This might be particularly beneficial for those paying additional rate tax which reduced from 50 per cent to 45 per cent from April 6.

• For more information, or to discuss other opportunities for efficient tax planning, contact Stephenson Smart& Co. Tel: 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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21/3/13 20:58:46

W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront Spotlight on Mauritius

M

auritius is a marvellous mix of African, Indian, European and Oriental influences. The island is surrounded by a huge reef sheltering the shallow lagoons, whose waters meet a shoreline of sugar white beaches.

The capital Port Louis has an international atmosphere and the coastline is home to a collection of fine hotels, there is a choice of world-class golf courses and the beaches and lagoons are a haven for watersports. Not least, the island is home to some of the friendliest people, so you can expect great hospitality. Mauritius makes a relaxing home for your luxurious holiday or why not use the easy flight connections from East and Southern Africa to make a twin centre holiday to somewhere more adventurous? A spell under the vast skies of Africa, or a safari in one of the finest game reserves, could be the contrast to lazy island days. With the most cosmopolitan character of all the Indian Ocean Islands, Mauritius offers a fine range of holiday styles in a stunning tropical setting.

Oundle Travel recommends four favourite hotels to suit every taste and budget: Tamassa by Lux Resorts offers a superb value All Inclusive option with a choice of dining, the resort is spread over a wide area and offers a wide range of water based activities including water-skiing - From £1700 per person (p/p) travelling in July.

Boutique Hotel 20 Sud – Offering discreet service in a scenic beachfront setting, this pretty 34 room property is managed by the proprietors Anne and Michael Bourgeois. For those of you wanting complete peace, no children under the age of 12 are accepted! From £1569 p/p travelling in September.

The Maritime offers a fabulous All Inclusive standard for families and has been fully refurbished throughout. Only 45 minutes from the airport, this resort offers an equestrian centre with horses and ponies, there is also a small farm with animals and giant tortoises.

A children’s club offers childcare for 3-11 years from 9 am – 10 pm daily. From £1869 p/p travelling in August.

The Oberoi Luxury at its best with a dedicated team of staff who will look after your every whim. The Oberoi Spa offers a wide range of holistic treatments. The vast array of watersports includes catamaran, speedboat excursions and deep sea fishing.

Mauritius experiences good year round temperatures ranging from 25 - 35 degrees; the cooler drier period is from May to November.

• For more details and recommendations please contact Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk

Care solutions for the elderly Aleisha White of Rutland Care Solutions answers some frequently asked questions about care arrangements for loved ones Why can’t I sort out my own care arrangements?

You can! However, are you aware of all the options available? Do you know what care is able to be provided at home? Do you know if residential care or nursing care is required? Do you have time to visit and research various care homes? Are you sure you would be paying the right price?

I can help provide the answers to all of these questions.

I have been told that my mother needs to go into a nursing home and that I will need to sell her house to fund her care home placement.

Not necessarily. If you need to go into a nursing home because of long term health needs, e.g Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, you may be eligible to have your care home placement funded by the Primary Care Trust. This is called NHS Continuing Healthcare funding.

Can you help set up a care package so my mum can remain at home?

Yes, I am qualified to set up and monitor care packages, including live in care.

• Contact Aleisha on 01572 720705/ 07766490473 or email aleisha@rutlandcaresolutions.com

Local artist launches a website Polebrook artist Sam Purcell’s range of cards and her 2013 calendar have many fans in the region but with only two local stockists, The Olive Grove Nurseries, Polebrook, and Foxtail Lilly, Oundle, it hasn’t always been easy to track down these appealing designs. Now Sam, who drew this month’s cover image of chickens exclusively for Nene Valley Living, has launched a website where you can purchase her cards direct, and view the full range at www.sampurcell.co.uk “My most popular designs are the drawings of animals, and particularly hares. I like taking drawings into a more designed image with the use of colour and shape rather than detail,” explains Sam. “We live in an area rich in inspiration for my work and I frequently return from walking our dog Lottie, who features on one of my cards, with seedheads, berries, anything that takes my attention and is portable and available!”

Sam’s cards and her calendar are printed locally, at Inkwell Printers of Barnwell. “They are totally reliable, quick and friendly,” says Sam. She has plans to expand her collection onto jugs and possibly mugs, and constantly updates her card collection with new designs.

• To view the full range, visit www.sampurcell.co.uk Cards cost £2 each, or £9 for six, and postage is £2.95. For more information, email sam@sampurcell.co.uk

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NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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• NVL April ADS.indd 9

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Oundle Mill is reOpening On Friday 29 th OF March dine fOr £14.95 On ThurSdayS On Thursdays in april and May, for lunch or dinner, you can experience our delicious Mill menu for £14.95 for three courses.

SeT Menu Our new set menu offers a selection of mouthwatering dishes and is perfect to enjoy for lunch or dinner from £12.50 per person.

The set menu is not available on Thursdays, Saturday evenings and Sunday lunch times.

Sunday Lunch Join us at Oundle Mill with family and friends for Sunday lunch and enjoy scrumptious starters, traditional roasts and tempting desserts from our fabulous Sunday lunch menu.

2 courses £21.50 3 courses £25.50 Sunday lunch is served between 12.00 and 2.30pm.

We are now taking bookings from Friday 29th of March, please contact our reception team to book a table or a relaxing break.

Oundle Mill, Barnwell Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 5PB Tel: (01832) 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk 10

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20/3/13 14:05:50

W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront Nene Valley Living

From the Riverford Kitchen…

Riverford cook Diana Burke, who is based at Sacrewell, near Thornaugh, works across the region helping communities to get cooking. Each month, she shares a recipe in Nene Valley Living.

Lemon Curd and Chocolate Tart For the lemon curd • Two eggs • 200g caster sugar • 100g unsalted butter, diced • Finely grated zest and juice of two lemons For the tart • 100g dark chocolate, broken into small pieces • 250g digestive biscuits, made into crumbs • Three eggs • 350g lemon curd • 150ml double cream • Finely grated zest of two lemons • To decorate (optional) • 25g dark chocolate To make the lemon curd: lightly beat the eggs in a small saucepan. Add the lemon juice, sugar and butter. Heat very gently to melt butter and sugar crystals, stirring constantly. When the butter and sugar have melted keep stirring on the heat for a couple more minutes. Keep the heat very low to prevent the eggs from curdling. As soon as the mixture starts to thicken, and has the consistency of thin custard, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Leave to cool, then place in the fridge.

To make the tart, bring a pan of water to simmering point. Put the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl, place on the pan, without letting the bowl touch the water. Simmer to melt the chocolate and butter. Put the biscuit crumbs in a large bowl. Pour over the melted chocolate mixture and stir well to combine.

Spread into a tart tin and press evenly over the bottom and sides. Chill for at least an hour.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees centigrade. In a large jug, beat the eggs together, add the lemon curd, cream and lemon zest and stir together. Pour the lemon mixture in the tart tin and put on a baking tray on the middle shelf of your oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until just set. Remove from the oven and cool in the tin. If you want to decorate your tart, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, as before. Carefully spoon into a piping bag with a small single hole nozzle and pipe lines across the tart.

About Riverford: Riverford’s 500 acre local organic farm is based at Sacrewell, Thornhaugh, near Peterborough. The farm grows fresh organic produce for fruit and veg boxes that are delivered to customers across Cambridgeshire. Offering a range of organic food including veg, dairy and meat, Riverford has always pursued the highest possible standards of ethical business and animal welfare, winning at the Observer Ethical Business Awards, RSPCA Good Business Awards, Compassion in World Farming Awards and Soil Association Food Awards.

• To order your box, contact 01780 789700 or visit www.riverford.org.uk/sacrewell

01780 789700

www.riverford.co.uk/FFB13

recommends Carluccio’s, Peterborough

P

eterborough city centre’s newest restaurant is Carluccio’s, housed in the grade II listed building which was formerly Harriet’s Tea Room. It has been restored to create a space which fuses modern and traditional style. The place was almost full when we arrived for lunch on a week day, and as soon as a table emptied, it filled up again. For my starter, I chose Mozzarella Dell’Isola. This was melted buffalo mozzarella on roasted peppers with sliced parma ham and rocket, a delicious blend. Bridget opted for a small dish of Verdura Fritta, courgette, aubergine and peppers in a light, dry crispy batter, a bit like tempura. For £3, she thought this was a lovely appetiser. For our mains, I chose pan fried sea bream with crushed potatoes, fennel, olives and capers. I really enjoyed the fish, which was tender, with a crispy skin, and the potatoes were soft and savoury.

Bridget’s lasagne was an excellent version of an Italian classic, and she complemented it with a glass of smooth Chianti. We ordered salads as accompaniments (these cost extra). For dessert, my raspberry Eton Mess was absolutely amazing: soft, chewy home-made tasting meringue contrasting with tart raspberries and fresh cream. Bridget had the chocolate fondant, not an easy dish to cook, but she thought it was a great version.

Service was settling down, as the restaurant had only been open for a week, and any small blips had been ironed out when I visited a few days later for dinner. The only problem with Carluccio’s is choosing what to eat, as everything looks and sounds so delicious. I would highly recommend the Menu Fisso (fixed menu) which is just £9.95 for two courses (or add £3.50 for three). My husband’s bruschetta, home made ravioli with spinach and a sensational orange panna cotta was part of this deal, and it was a very impressive meal.

The adjoining food shop stocks gorgeously packaged Italian treats, and you can get coffee and food to go. It’s a delight to have this restaurant in central Peterborough, and whether you pop in for coffee, breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can be assured of reliability and high standards throughout.

Fiona Cumberpatch • Carluccio’s, Cumbergate, Peterborough PE1 1YR Tel: 01733 890752

free Riverford cook book with your vegbox

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*Free book on your 2nd delivery when you place a regular vegbox order. New customers only.

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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E DUCAT ION

Education News Topical issues from local schools

A LEVEL REFORMS: WILL YOUR CHILD BE AFFECTED? Jonathan Maddox, head teacher at Bourne Grammar School sheds some light on proposed changes in the public examination system

T

he Secretary of State has published his proposals for future changes in the AS and A level examinations, the ones taken by sixth form students in schools and colleges. The changes outlined

by Mr Gove will be implemented for teaching from September 2015, which the first cohort of students under the new system will be those presently in Year 9.

The current system of modular courses, with the chance to retake modules, will disappear and be replaced by A level courses that are two year linear courses, which means that students will study their chosen courses for two years and face a single suite of examinations at the end of the course. This is, of course, exactly the system which many parents studied under in the years up to the early 1990s. All approaches have advantages and disadvantages and what suits some students will not be ideal for others. Some students are likely to prosper under this ‘traditional’ approach and it could be that the freedom from endless preparation for imminent exams will lead, for many, to a more enjoyable and fulfilling intellectual experience while studying in the sixth form.

The AS examination, taken in Year 12 after one year of study, is to be retained but not in its present form. The existing AS is worth half of an A level exam in terms of UCAS points, but it is also regarded as the first half of an A level course; typically students take an AS in a given subject in Year 12 and through further study in that subject in Year 13, an A level award is achieved. The new style AS level will be retained but it will become a ‘free standing’ qualification, worth half an A level and will no longer be regarded as the first half of an A level qualification. The new AS levels can be studied over one or two years with examinations being taken at the end of the course.

• For more information, visit www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk

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WHICH WAY NOW?

Jo Baron and Graham Snelling, assistant head teachers at Prince William School, Oundle, help you to make sense of your child’s year 10 options

T

hink back to when you were 14. What did you want to do with your life? Did you have a clue? Whatever your plans, was your future secure?

We all have to make decisions in life that can have a real impact on our future. Every year, hundreds of local teenagers have to make major decisions about the educational pathway they need to tread. Thirteen and 14 year old youngsters will still be in compulsory education, training or apprenticeships until they are 18, so they need to choose their courses wisely.

At Prince William School, the past curriculum offer has been reviewed and now offers a more individualised approach which is tailored to the talents and needs of every student. This means that one child may study for 11 GCSEs with a very traditional profile of sciences, humanities and languages. Another student could have just as relevant experience by doing a combination of eight GCSEs and Applied Learning courses.

Although there is still a requirement for all students to study the core subjects (Maths, English, Science, RE, PE – non exam – and a personal development programme in Key Stage 4) there are a wide variety of optional subjects which allow students to pursue their interests and be successful. For this reason, Prince William has introduced BTEC courses such as Business Studies and Performing Arts. But it is also important that youngsters are fully prepared for the future workplace so as well as developing effective ICT, numeracy and literacy skills, they must also possess key transferable skills such as leadership, team work and problem solving etc. These skills are developed through extra curricular activities such as Young Leaders, Community Sports Leaders Award and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

From September, a curriculum that offers both breadth and depth of experience is on offer to Year 10 students at Prince William School.

Our students are going through the process of learning about courses, researching further and higher education requirements and investigating possible career opportunities. It is an exciting time in their lives and we wish them well.

So, consider the questions at the start of this article. Did you know what you wanted to do? And are you doing it now?

• Prince William School has appointed a new head teacher. Mark Taitt takes up his position in July 2013.

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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Abacus Tutoring Academy Whether your child is preparing for SATS, GCSEs or A-levels, we can help with preparation to increase knowledge, confidence and examination technique.

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Professional Home Care Service A friendly & flexible home based care service tailored around each individual, to provide: • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Local Transportation and Shopping • Meal Preparation

• Personal Care • Convalescence Support • Specialist Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care

Our CAREGivers are carefully vetted, fully trained, insured and undergo an enhanced CRB check

Contact us on 01733 333342 Providing care services in: • Peterborough • Oundle • The Deepings

www.homeinstead.co.uk/oundle 13

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Spring Gardens HOM E & GAR DE N

The beauty of

Be ins pir ed by t h e s e l oc al landsc ap es i n th e ir s eas onal finery

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Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge Open as part of the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday April 14, 2pm-5pm, this garden combines traditional topiary, borders, a woodland walk, lawns, specimen trees and an avenue of limes underplanted with spring bulbs which leads to The Grove, the 1813 house once belonging to the Darwin family (not open).

Combined admission £5. Teas available.

Fitzwilliam College, Storeys Way, Cambridge CB3 ODG www.fitz.cam.ac.uk

Easton Walled Gardens

Ursula Cholmeley’s mission to bring Lincolnshire’s ‘lost gardens’ back to life is paying off, and it’s a wonderful sight to see the drifts of spring bulbs in the meadows at this time of year. Why not do a hands-on gardening course here? On May 17th you can have an Introduction to Vegetables for £50 (10am-4pm).

Easton, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG33 5AP Tel: 01476 530063

Manor House, Apethorpe

A rare chance to walk in the grounds of the privately owned Manor House, Apethorpe, on Saturday April 13th from 2pm -4.30pm. This is a beautiful, peaceful and easy lakeside stroll with a carpet of golden daffodils, and pink and blue hyacinths peeping through the grass beneath the trees. Sensational. Tickets cost £4, and you can have tea in the Church of St Leonards afterwards.

The event marks the start of a fundraising initiative to adapt the nave of the Church into a flexible community space, with a loo and a servery. This can then be used for events and get togethers. The first phase will be a new underfloor heating system and proceeds from this event will help to launch the appeal.

Manor House, Apethorpe, PE8 5DL

Deene Park , Northamptonshire Swathes of golden daffodils and a scattering of hellebores and primroses too, at this stately home owned by the Brudenell family. Hot and cold refreshments are served in the Old Kitchen, decorated with spring flowers by Rutland Flower Club and Stamford Floral Arrangement Society.

11am -4pm. Adults £4, children free.

Deene Park, Near Corby, Northants, NN17 3EW www.deenepark.com

Lamport Hall and Gardens, Lamport, Northamptonshire Why not sign up for a guided walk through the ten acre gardens at this stately Hall surrounded by vistas of rolling hills and open countryside?

A guide is available on April 3rd to introduce visitors to the fascinatingly chequered history of this restored treasure.

Lamport Hall and Gardens, Lamport, Northamptonshire NN6 9HD Tel: 01604 686272. For full events listings and charges, see www.lamporthall.co.uk

The Manor at Hemingford Grey A magical place, just like its owner, author Lucy Boston who created the ‘Green Knowe’ children’s books. A visionary gardener, Lucy bought the Manor in 1939 following the collapse of her marriage to Harold Boston. After the war ended, she made a four acre garden, which she filled with over 200 scented old roses, a collection of specimen irises and magnificent herbaceous borders. It’s too early for the roses, but go along for a delightful walk. It’s open daily, without appointment (the house is by appointment only).

Entry is £3 (£4 from May- July).

The Manor, Hemingford Grey, Huntingdon PE28 9BN Tel: 01480 463134 www.greenknowe.co.uk

Kelmarsh Hall

Explore these gardens of relaxed charm and ‘haphazard luxuriance.’ A walled kitchen garden, stunning greenhouses, walkways, gates, and chickens, they are all here in the grounds of this 18th century house. There is a great tea room, for lunches or light snacks. Open from March 31st on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and bank holidays, but please ring before visiting as the Hall is sometimes closed for private functions.

Gardens only, £5.

Kelmarsh Hall, Harborough Rd, Kelmarsh, NN6 9LY Tel: 01604 686543 NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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HOM E & GAR DE N

April in the outdoors It’s time to get back into the garden and celebrate spring, says Lynne Hopwood

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raditionally April is known for showers but hopefully we shall experience some warmer temperatures encouraging us out into the garden once more. This month sees an abundance of blossom and colour with magnolia, flowering cherries, early rhododendron and azaleas. If you have a warm and sunny sheltered wall, it is possible to grow Wisteria, a delicious wall climber with long violet flowers which hang in bunches rather like grapes. Its twisted branches and delicate leaves sway seductively in the breeze long after its flowers have finished. It will become rampant if really happy and requires pruning twice yearly. My recommendation would be for Wisteria (floribunda ) which has 60cm long flowers and a wonderful scent.

A clear favourite is the tulip in its many forms and varieties that continue to appear until the end of May. Early flowering tulip ‘Spring Green’ looks good when planted with the frothy yellow flowers of Alchemilla Mollis or you could try Tulip ‘Beauty of Volemdam’ whose white flamed violet red flowers are well framed by orange Erysium (perennial wallflower) with the whorl shaped flowers of Phlomis Russeliana. Narcissus poeticus is white with an orange trumpet and is an absolute joy when contrasted with blue anemone blanda and the dark green, white veined leaves of Arum Italicum Marmoratum.

Another narcissus worth trying is Narcissus Triandus ‘Thalia’.

This is a delicate papery white that looks good with blue Hyacinths and forget-me-nots. Tulips can be planted in Autumn, either in the ground at three times their depth or placed in tubs which can be hidden away when the flowers fade and the foliage starts to look unsightly.

Tend your plants Jobs for April include liquid feeding fruit trees with a balanced feed and protecting plum and pear tree blossom from frost. Allow access for pollinating insects to make contact. You can start to think about growing vegetables outside if the weather is fair and the soil warmed up and wellprepared. Lily bulbs can be planted outside or in containers to fill in gaps in the border where there is a lull of interest. Trim winter flowering heathers to prevent them from becoming leggy. You know if you are late because the new growth takes off where the old flowers used to be, leaving an unsightly gap!

Pick off the faded flowers of hyacinth to prevent them from setting seed and feed azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias with an acidic (ericaceous) fertiliser. Support the emerging new growth of oriental poppies with twiggy sticks or bamboo canes. Leave daffodil foliage for 6 weeks after flowering so that the goodness in the leaves goes back into the bulbs for next year. Yes, I know it is hard to put up with the yellowing foliage but it is totally necessary for the plant!

One more tip is not work too hard in your garden, you can appreciate the season so much more if you share your plants with a neighbour or take some flowers to a friend. Get your children involved with seeds that are easy to grow like sunflowers or sweetpeas. They may just grow into adults who enjoy the garden. Take some time to appreciate the miracle of what you have or take time off to visit a nearby bluebell wood. The sight is breathtaking and the scent heavenly.

Happy April !

Wisteria floribunda ‘Spring Green’ tulip

Paper white narcissus

Love! Gardening Services Phone: 07740303004/01572 770681 Email: lynnehopwood@live.co.uk

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The Shuckburgh Arms at Southwick

ONLY £2.50 a PINT!

All real Ales, Lagers and Ciders (even Guinness) yes that’s right … ... two English ££ pounds and fifty a pint All day every day, if you keep coming we will keep the price Five real ales, three great lagers, two ciders

01832 272 044

Like us on: www.facebook.com/shuckburgharmssouthwick

Shoot parties welcome for breakfast, lunch or dinner Some of the best walks in the area come and park up and walk into the heart of the Rockingham forest

www.shuckburghpub.co.uk

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Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD or telephone: 01780 757 946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk 17

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HOM E & GAR DE N

Garden answers

Need a bit of help outside? Look no further as Lucy Banwell rounds up the best of the area’s suppliers of gardening products and services PHOTO: MARTYN MOORE

WILLIAM LLOYD BESPOKE GARDEN STRUCTURES

W

e all love looking at pictures of inspirational gardens, but it is possible to recreate a little bit of that green-fingered magic in your own back yard? Absolutely. All you need is a bit of help, in the form of some expert gardening advice or the purchase of some new plants or shrubs to pep up your garden in time for Spring. If you don’t know where to start, just follow our handy guide to the best gardeners and garden supplies firms the area has to offer.

WILLIAM LLOYD BESPOKE GARDEN STRUCTURES Willowbrook Farmhouse, Woodnewton, Oundle, PE8 5EG Tel: 07974 071 551 www.williamlloyd.co.uk If you’re in need of an exquisite summer house, a garden office or a truly unique piece of garden furniture, then William Lloyd can create it for you. Beautiful, bespoke structures for the discerning garden owner.

CHARLOTTE BAXTER’S GARDENS West End Villa, 38 West End, Whittlesey, Peterborough, PE7 1LS Tel: 01733 202229 Charlotte Baxter, a very experienced professional garden designer and horticulturist, can transform an existing garden with imaginative planning or design a new one from scratch.

BERRY GARDEN SERVICES 105 Corby Road, Weldon, NN17 3HU Tel: 01536 443147 www.berrygardenservices.co.uk Offering everything from a full landscape architecture service to garden maintenance and fencing work, Berry Garden Services is a small but experienced firm which prides itself on its reliability, quality and competitive pricing structure.

ROOTS EARTHWORKS AND LANDSCAPING 16 Lime Avenue, Oundle, PE8 4PJ Tel: 01832 272898 www.rootsearthworksandlandscaping.co.uk

CHARLOTTE BAXTER’S GARDENS

If you fancy transforming your garden then why not try Oundle-based Gary Kruger who offers a friendly but professional approach to landscaping projects such as re-turfing, slab laying and fencing? Roots is also happy to take on regular garden maintenance. No job too small.

THE BARN GARDEN CENTRE Paston Parkway, Peterborough, PE3 7AD Tel 01733 320134 Barnwell Rd, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5PB Tel: 01832 273310 www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk This well-established independent garden centre prides itself on its friendly service and comprehensive range of goods. A handy onestop shop for plants, seeds, bulbs, garden tools, pots and garden furniture.

FOXTAIL LILLY 41 South Rd,Oundle PE8 4BP Tel: 01832 274593 www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk Tracey Mathieson’s gorgeous little shop is as pretty as a picture and offers friendly advice as well as an array of cut flowers, cottage garden plants and pretty vintage tableware, ceramics and textiles. Why not visit between 11am and 3pm on Saturday 11 May for Foxtail Lilly’s ‘Vintage Day’ which will see a range of stalls selling vintage wares, including some gardenalia. Tea and cake also available.

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm, Wednesday Saturday THE OLIVE GROVE NURSERIES Oundle Road, Polebrook, PE8 5LQ 01832 275660 www.olivegrovenurseries.co.uk Originally a nursery business specialising in olive trees, The Olive Grove successfully extended its offering last year to include the popular ‘Olive Branch’ coffee shop, Italian ice cream parlour and deli. The range of foods for sale – from olives and ham to delicious frozen pain au chocolat ready to pop in the oven – is incredible and the Mediterranean-styled terrace

VAN HAGE GARDEN CENTRE

is hard to beat when the sun shines. But Jackie and Tim Thackeray, who run the place, don’t like to rest on their laurels, and next up is a brand new interiors and gift store which is due to open soon after Easter. The new shop will stock teak garden furniture as well as soft furnishings, interior furniture, cards and gifts.

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday, 11am – 4pm Sunday ELTON HALL GARDEN STORE Elton, Near Peterborough, PE8 6SH 01832 280058 www.thegardenstore.ltd.uk Situated next to the historic Elton Hall, this garden centre prides itself on its top quality plant offering and expert advice. There is a also a café and gift shop.

Opening hours: 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm Sunday VAN HAGE GARDEN CENTRE Peterborough Garden Park, Peterborough, PE1 4YZ Tel: 01733 221400 www.vanhage.co.uk Stunning product displays and a vast range of plants and gardening products will greet you as you set foot in Van Hage’s huge, light-filled Peterborough store. Other retail opportunities are pretty impressive too, with lots of fresh local food items for sale as well as clothes, gifts and barbecues. Top up your caffeine levels at the Himalaya Coffee Bar or refuel with a Full English breakfast or freshly baked pizza at the restaurant, Café VH. Opening hours: 9.30am – 6pm Monday – Saturday, 10.30am – 4.30pm Sunday Pic from p25 NVL March 2010 THE OLD BARN Church Street, Wadenhoe, PE8 5XD This charming tea room and gift shop set in a converted barn in one of the region’s prettiest villages offers a good range of plants for sale as well as tea, cake and gifts.

Opening hours: 9.30am – 5.30pm Monday Sunday NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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A C T I V I T IE S

Keeping happy chickens Imagine tucking into freshly laid eggs produced by your own chickens. You don’t need acres of land or lots of money to raise happy, healthy hens, says Taliah Drayak, author of a new book published by Peterborough company Need2Know Books

keepers are a friendly bunch and will happily talk about chickens for as long as you will listen.

Free ranging

A

re you able to spare five minutes each morning and evening? Do you have an extra half hour on the weekends? Do you enjoy animals and want to treat them with kindness and empathy? If you want a pet that won’t need walking in the rain, then perhaps a chicken is the right choice for you.

Chickens are easy to keep even in small gardens. They need very little equipment aside from a safe, dry home. A noisy cockerel need not be a cause for concern as hens will lay quite well without one. With a little care, chickens will provide the whole family with an undemanding and generous pet. Chickens are full of character and will delight you with their play.

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Preparing for your chickens Be cautious when buying a henhouse.

Technically, the space required to properly house a chicken is set at 12 inches per chicken. Just consider that for a moment.

That does not afford them much room for movement. If you purchased one of these chicken houses you would need to clean it out every single day. Ideally, chickens should have 36 -60 square inches of space.

A chicken house does not need to be fancy. You can convert an old shed or buy one ready made. Visit a few local farms and look at the housing choices they have made and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Chicken

It isn’t possible to secure an entire garden, so when you are not there to watch over your chickens, keep them in a moveable run.

A large rabbit or guinea pig run would be more than acceptable for a trio of chickens.

At night, lock them up in a secure hen house. There are products available to deter predators. Foxwatch emits an ultrasonic sound that keeps foxes away and is said to be effective.

Around 150 common plants are toxic to poultry. Most chickens will avoid them, but young and greedy birds will forage on a little of everything, so you need to remove the plants or fence them off. Here are some garden plants which should be avoided (for a full list, visit www.poultryclub.org) Alfalfa, elderberry, fern, daffodil, honeysuckle, lily of the valley, delphinium, bryony, tomato leaves, holly, horse radish, foxglove, tulip, wisteria, ivy, iris and nightshade.

Which breed to choose?

There are hundreds of breeds. Do your research and don’t hesitate to ask questions before making a decision. A large garden may accommodate a diverse flock of large fowl while a small garden might be best suited to keeping bantams. Each breed has been bred for a purpose. Their unique

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What about bird flu?

Many people worry about disease and illness being spread to humans by chickens. Illnesses such as avian influenza are not easily passed from birds to humans. Most transferable illnesses come from wild birds.

Sometimes a wild bird may infect a domestic one but it is important to emphasise the risk is very small. If you purchase chickens from a reputable breeder they will almost certainly be vaccinated against the big three: Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis. Wash your hands every time you handle your chickens or their bedding and they will pose no greater health risk than any other common pet.

Silkie

Orpington chicken temperament, laying abilities and overall hardiness should be considered when assessing if they will suit your lifestyle.

Light breeds These are birds that have primarily originated from the Mediterranean. They tend to be great layers, with soft, fluffy plumage. Their nervous disposition and small size makes them prone to predators but they consume less feed in relation to the number of eggs they produce than many heavier breeds.

Araucana Hardy birds which tolerate cold weather well and require minimum maintenance. They are alert and friendly and will lay around 150 eggs per year. They come in colours ranging from lavender to black and have feathering around their head.

Friesian Small, robust, sociable and inquisitive. They are modest eaters and great layers. A hen lays on average 230 eggs per year.

Leghorn An Italian breed, bred in Britain since the 1800s.

Leghorns are economical eaters and prolific layers. The average hen lays in excess of 320 eggs a year. They are shy and prefer to keep on the go.

Silkie They look and sound rather like the original Easter bunny as they are covered in fine, fluffy feathers. They have a circular comb and a small, ragged tail. Excellent mothers, but not prolific layers. Expect about 100 small tinted eggs in a good year.

Heavy breeds Heavy breeds are good layers and tend to be dual purpose. They eat more than a light breed chicken and may lay fewer eggs. Heavy breeds have often been bred more for their table qualities than their egg production and as such may require specific care to avoid quickly putting on excess weight.

Cream Legbars A rare and attractive blue egg layer. Making a comeback in popularity after having become almost extinct.

Very active and flighty. Lays 150-180 eggs in the best years.

Maran Hardy and disease resistant, Marans lay up to 200 eggs per year. Great with young children and known for being keen lap birds.

Orpington Currently one of the most popular British breeds, as it was the breed kept by HM the Queen Mother. Large and fluffy, they must be kept out of rain as their feathers are not water resistant. Produces up to 200 eggs per year.

Rhode Island Red Known for its superb egg production, they have glossy red feathers, and are known the world over. They can lay around 300 eggs per year.

Wyandotte Beautifully laced feathers, a very attractive chicken. They are calm birds, well suited to domestic life. Lay up to 200 pale brown eggs in their first year of laying and are devoted mothers.

Keeping ex-battery hens If you want to care for an ex-battery hen, then contacting the British Hen Welfare Trust is essential. Go to http://www.bhwt.org.uk and they will provide you with information to find a rehoming hub near you.

Ex-battery hens are almost always hybrids. They will be around 70 weeks old, have missing feathers, beaks cut and weakened legs, but they will be vaccinated and diseasefree. Ex-battery hens will make your heart swell with pride. They bloom through gentle care and will lay at a diminished rate for one to three years.

• READER OFFER: This is an edited extract from Raising Chickens: The Essential Guide

by Taliah Drayak, published by Need2Know Books. The book covers all aspects of successful chicken keeping in a practical, easy to read guide. NVL readers can get 20 per cent off the recommended price of £9.99 when purchasing a copy from www.need2knowbooks.co.uk Just visit the website, place your order and enter code NVL2013 (in capitals) at the checkout. The offer expires on April 30 and excludes Kindle books and eBooks.

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FOOD & DR INK

Food News All the latest on local food and drink

Local company launches London pub and dining room

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The Northwick Arms, Ketton, reopens

aul Hook and Patcharee Shaweewan, owners of popular Peterborough pubs and restaurants The Brewery Tap and East, have expanded their business into London.

Oaka at The Mansion House is their latest venture, which will offer a combination of seasonal Pan Asian cuisine and hand crafted real ales from Peterborough based brewery Oakham Ales.

The Mansion House, on Kennington Park Road, London, has been totally refurbished with great care taken to preserve the building’s many original features. It has a large restaurant and bar, and a spacious outdoor terrace. Paul and Patcharee intend the new venue to be the first in a new collection which pairs real ales and Thai food. www.oakalondon.co.uk

A village pub is given a long-awaited new lease of life under experienced owners.

Nick O’Bryan-Tear tried it out

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usiness partners Marcus Welford and Tim Luff are on a mission: to restore the one time beating heart of the English village (the pub) to rude health. My great fortune and others in Ketton, near Stamford, is that they have chosen the Northwick Arms for their campaign.

Marcus, a founder of The Olive Branch, and Tim, a chef there for eight years, certainly know the ingredients of a successful ‘pub that does food’ (Marcus dislikes the term gastro pub.) We took along friends from Stamford who remember the pub as a popular boozer worth the trip from town. It is now much changed, both in looks and ambition.

We sat in front of a crackling log fire while we dithered about what to eat from the varied and tempting menu and blackboard options. Gary eventually went for the Roasted Ratatouille and Goat’s cheese tart on the basis that this would be a real test of the chef’s skill (he passed with flying colours). Candy and I had the Wild Mushrooms with Madeira and Tarragon and Jo the Thai Spiced fish cakes (a particular success, fluffy and flaky fish working well with a piquant chilli salsa).

The mains were equally impressive. Roast chicken and fondant potato was beautifully offset by a robust mushroom and bacon sauce, and Gary’s chicken and slow cooked ham pie from the blackboard was ‘exquisite’ in its richness.

A delicate crème brulee, rich brownies and a generous cheese selection completed the piece. Service was attentive without being fussy. Our meal came to £30 a head with wine, so good value, too. Chatting to Marcus the next day, there was an obvious sense that he has a real zeal to recreate the pub as the hub of the community. Summer events are planned in the large garden, children and dogs are welcome (there is a great children’s menu) and next door neighbour Adam will be creating an allotment for the pub.

• The Northwick Arms, High St, Ketton, PE9 3TA Tel: 01780 720238

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Bites • Great feedback from The Old Barn, Wadenhoe, which offers teas and light lunches.

One reader commented: “I had the best slice of cake here that I’ve ever eaten in my life..” Tel: 01832 721129 • Oundle Mill reopens for business on March 29th. Book on 01832 272621 (dine for £14.95 for three courses on Thursdays in April).

• Beans, Stamford has moved to new premises. The new café is at the top end of High Street, next to Rohan. www.beanscoffeestop.co.uk • The Queen’s Head, Bulwick, has been named the Campaign for Real Ale Peterborough and District Branch’s pub of the year 2013.

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FREE MARQUEE HIRE! Conditions apply

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01733 571721 125 Church Street Werrington Peterborough, PE4 6QF www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

01733 315 702

Upper Deck Charters Town Bridge Peterborough PE1 1FP 23

• NVL April ADS.indd 23

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Caci Ultimate at Elysia CACI is an award winning anti-ageing treatment, which has been featured on Channel 4’s 10 years younger. It boasts over 20 years of medical research.

Get your toes ready for Spring/ Summer. £5 off Jessica Pedicures including GELeration Gel Polish Offer valid until 30th April 2013 Pure Health & Beauty, Church Farm, Glapthorn, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5BE, TEL: 01832 272310 OR EMAIL:pure@farming.co.uk Ample onsite parking for all our clients

Opening Times Mon 9.30-7.30 Tue 9.30-7.30 Wed 9.30-7.30, Thur 9.30-7.30 Fri 9.30-5.00 Sat 8.00-5.00

Q. WHY DO I NEED A COURSE OF TREATMENTS? A. CACI lifts, tones and re-educates the muscles and a course gives lasting results. Treatments can be tailored to suit and the system treats lines, wrinkles, eye area, sagging skin, blemishes, scarring, acne, dehydrated and tired skin, stretch marks and cellulite.

Q. IS THE CACI ULTIMATE TREATMENT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER CACI TREATMENTS? A. Yes. The ULTIMATE offers the very latest technology. It is the only system to combine facial lifting and toning, orbital microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, hydratone mask. The systems multi-functional capabilities offer the most comprehensive range of non-surgical treatments available.

Q. IS THE CACI FACIAL RELAXING? A. Most clients feel the treatment is enjoyable and do fall asleep.

However, in order to achieve maximum results, a slight tingling may be felt during the treatment.

Q. CAN I SPREAD THE COST? A. Yes. We can work payment options with you.

Q. HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN SEE RESULTS? A. Results are apparent after only one treatment with softening of lines and wrinkles and lifting of the muscles. Skin feels tighter, firmer and smoother. Results are even better 24-48 hours later.

Q.HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED? A. For lasting results a course of 10-15 treatments is recommended.

Followed by a maintenance treatment every 4 weeks.

• Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle, 01832 226328 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

{ Beaux Amis } Hair & Beauty Fomerly known as The Hair Boutique.

Located within The Haycock Hotel, Wansford.

Open Evening

Friday 12th April 2013 6pm – 8pm Drinks on Arrival, canapés, goody bags – bring a friend!

Call 01780 781102

Appointments now being taken

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HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

Health & Beauty Notes All the latest on local health and beauty businesses. By Bridget Steele

THE POWER OF PILATES Pilates targets the deep postural muscles, building strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct alignment reshaping the body to becoming longer, leaner and more toned. Many people take up Pilates after back problems and it is especially recommended by medical experts and can be used for those needing rehabilitation. I met Milena Hunt who teaches Pilates at all levels and specialises in one to one sessions working with “Body Control Pilates.” I already do a weekly Pilates class, so I knew many of the techniques used, but having a session in my own home with Milena was very helpful. Milena turned up with a mat, balls and foam shapes - she assessed my strength and we talked about my Pilates experience and started with some basic moves. Although I had done many moves before, it was helpful to perfect a move, getting more out of it and understanding where I have been going wrong. Milena made the one hour session challenging enough and she was very encouraging and certainly knew how to get the best from me.

• For more information contact Milena Hunt 01733 371806/07791 693257

THE OCULIST LAUNCHES THE SEIKO DIGITAL MULTITOOL

Traditionally, spectacle dispensing measurements are taken using a ruler and a marker pen. This has worked well enough for years but with technological advances happening all around us, it was only a matter of time before spectacle dispensing entered the digital world.

The Oculist Opticians in Peterborough has just launched a revolutionary new dispensing tool for smart and accurate measurements using the iPad 3. A photo is taken whilst wearing your chosen frame and a reference device called a jig. The SEIKO Multitool calculates the eye position accurately within 0.1 mm.

In addition to accurate dispensing the SEIKO MultiTool has visualised frame selection. This allows you to compare four frames at a time and The Oculist team are able to email these pictures straight to you. There is also a live Mulitfocal demonstration to help first time wearers understand how the lens works and what to expect.

• Book an eye examination at www.theoculist.com or call 01733 555621.

HYPNOTHERAPY IN PETERBOROUGH Peterborough hypnotherapist, Tim Pinning is based in Priestgate, Peterborough and tailors his programmes to his clients’ needs, specialising in the Hypno-slimming programme, stress management and smoking cessation.

Hypnotherapy can also be used to treat addictions, driving test nerves, insomnia, exam nerves, anxiety, and Tim also offers Hypnotic Gastric Band treatment. Tim has run a clinic in Peterborough since 2005 and has helped clients from all sorts of backgrounds including doctors, solicitors, nurses, police officers, builders, and plumbers. Hypnotherapy treatment is also combined with psychotherapy, and NeuroLinguistic Programming and counselling to produce excellent results. Testimonials can be seen on Tim’s website.

• For more information contact Tim Pinning 01733 768839 www.timpinninghypnosis.co.uk

FIRM YOUR JOWLS! The latest addition to the Ultimate Caci treatment is the Jowl Lift. A quad probe applicator is used to firm and tone the jaw line targeting muscle laxity around the jaw line. The treatment works using a Caci serum and lasts 15 minutes, it is completely painless, although some people do experience a mild metallic taste and tingling. As with all Caci treatments, for best results a course is advised and the jowl treatment can be done as part of a Caci facial.

• For more information contact Lisa at Elysia Health and Beauty in Tansor, Tel: 01832 226328 or 07879 620196 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

NEW BEAUTY SALON IN WANSFORD Stacey Chalkley, owner of The Hair Boutique in the Haycock Hotel, is opening a new beauty salon called Beaux Amis. The salon, which will be situated within The Haycock, opens in early April. There will be an open evening on April 12, 6pm-8pm, with complimentary drinks on arrival, vouchers and goody bags.

• For more information, contact Stacey on 01780 781102.

PROTECT AGAINST THE SUN

We may not have seen much of it yet, but the summer sun will soon be here and it’s important to protect against it. Pure Health and Beauty in Glapthorn stock the RVB luxurious Italian skin care brand offering a complete line of sun products combining protection and revolutionary technology to prevent ageing and ensure a natural even tan.

The products include self tanning products, protective anti ageing moisturisers with complete DNA protection and after holiday Regeneration lotion to restore and nourish the skin’s vitality. The range also includes products for childrens’ skin. The products start at £15 and Jayne and Becky can advise on what treatment is most suitable for your needs.

• For more information contact: Pure Health and Beauty, The Old Stables, Main Street, Glapthorn, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5BE Tel: 01832 272310 NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

25 H&B NEWS.indd 3

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Newborough Cosmetic and Dental Surgery

confidential, out of town clinic with free Parking

Treatments performed by qualified dentist, Dr B Brabbins • treatments to reduce facial lines and wrinkles include botox starting at £160 • £60 first consultation fee redeemable on treatment • restylane dermal fillers starting at £150

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• NVL April ADS.indd 26

20/3/13 14:07:08

Advertisement Feature

Win a free spa weekend This month Homefield Grange is pleased to announce it’s Big Weekend Giveaway!

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hat’s right a full Detox Weekend at our beautiful, established and dedicated detox retreat in the peaceful Northamptonshire countryside FREE of charge for one lucky winner.

Included in the package is a choice of either a lymphatic/cellulite G5 treatment OR a blood analysis treatment.

G5 a mechanical massage is effective at moving the lymphatic system, improving circulation, breaking down stubborn pockets of fat and improving the appearance of cellulite.

One of our most popular treatments, it is also re-charging and relaxing.

Live Blood Analysis is used to evaluate the general health of the body’s internal environment, it can help identify areas of imbalance and is extremely useful in helping motivate clients to change their diet & lifestyle to achieve their long term health and wellbeing goals. Live & Dried Blood Analysis can help reveal levels of acidity in the body, general organ stress, blood sugar and hormonal imbalances, malabsorption of fats, proteins and nutrients, presence of heavy metals, activity of the immune system and possible presence of parasites, bacteria, moulds and fungus.

Also included in your package is: • Health Checks on arrival and departure by a qualified practitioner (Guests need to arrive by 4.30pm to receive the Health Check) • Daily Sauna • Daily exercise classes (depending on instructor Nordic walking, Yoga, Pilates, Fit for Life Weight Loss Class) • Full supplementation for detoxification support • Freshly prepared juices or healthy eating options • Organic Pukka Herbal Teas • Informative Talks • Purified Water • Relax and enjoy a restful sleep in our luxury accommodation serviced daily • Use of equipped gym (treadmill/cycle/rower/

cross trainer/weights/rebounders) • Extensive choice of additional beauty, holistic and diagnostic treatments, Lipo Genie inch loss, Biological Age Testing.

All you need to do is go to our website at www.homefieldgrange.co.uk sign up to our newsletter quoting the promotional code ‘NeneNutrition’ and answer three simple questions about yourself and you will be entered into the draw for what could be the kick start you’ve been looking for!

Homefield Grange specialises in helping clients make positive changes towards their wellness, health and well-being. Whether you arrive looking for healthy weight loss, detoxification, pampering, improved fitness, relaxation or simply some time out, our caring team of qualified practitioners will provide all the help you would expect from a professional organisation.

Homefield Grange is a permanent detox retreat & healthy weight loss spa open 51 weeks of the year. Our accommodation is stylish and welcoming, our service is bespoke with qualified staff on hand to look after you so you can just enjoy letting go from the stresses and strains of everyday life. A variety of options of

programmes, juicing or eating options are available, which can be decided upon your arrival to us. A maximum of 15 guests per week can attend our residential weight loss, relaxation, detox, fitness or pampering packages.

Another way we help our clients make positive changes towards their lifestyles is to offer Nutritional Consultations. Many people are now becoming aware of the importance of eating a healthy and varied diet. Making changes to the diet can have a dramatic effect on the physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing of our bodies.

Self diagnosis is tempting but you can accidentally cut out of your diet important nutrients that don’t cause you a problem, so it is better to consult a professionally Registered Dietitian or Nutritional Therapist before cutting out foods from your diet. We can combine this consultation with the other treatments at Homefield Grange to create a tailored package for your stay with us whether it be a three, five or seven day stay.

Alternatively we are now offering Day Spa packages that will give you the kick start you are looking for and will also give you a taster of a break at Homefield Grange. Packages available are: The Weight Loss Special, MOT Your MAN, Anti-ageing Package and The Digestion Solution Package • You can view the full details of all our residential and day spa packages on our website www.homefieldgrange.co.uk.

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• NVL April ADS.indd 27

20/3/13 14:07:19

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20/3/13 14:07:31

PE R SPE CT IVE S

What’s it all about?

Why am I here? What am I doing? What’s the point of it all? Michael Reid tells Sue Dobson about the philosophical life of Peterborough

O

can get very lively.” The Meaning of Life (and how to find it) seemed ideal for January.

“At some point in their life, everyone wonders ‘why am I here? What am I doing? What’s the point of it all?’

Philosophy can offer a toolbox of practices to provide answers.”

He draws on eastern and western philosophy from ancient to modern times and aims not to get too academic. “All Practical Philosophy relates to everyday life. I tell the people who come to the talks: don’t believe everything I say until you’ve tried it out for yourself.

Then you can decide if it’s true or complete bunkum. It’s one thing to be told something, another to think it through, but once you try it out you’re on the way to creating a happy and creative life.”

It’s certainly something he puts into practice in his own life. An engineering consultant and entrepreneur, he works in the sustainability sector of engineering, researching and working on an alternative to plastic and solar refrigeration. “I believe life should be fulfilling and fun. My aim is to enjoy whatever I’m “Life is not a problem to be doing.

“Philosophy is the love of wisdom. Wisdom is the solved but a reality to be art of living life happily and truly. It’s an art that experienced” can brighten our Søren Kierkegaard daily life in simple and surprising ways,” Michael explains. It seems Slow grower there’s a growing number of people in The following year was better: 12 people came to the Glass Onion Peterborough who are interested in community arts centre in Burghley Road. Then for two years he held hearing all about it. it at The Buttercross Tearoom in Central Park, where the number of participants increased significantly.

• For more information, visit “Vince at The Buttercross commented that people seemed to enjoy www.cbphilosophy.org what I had to say and urged me to do more frequent talks,” Michael • The monthly meetings at the continues. “So I started what has become Philosophy in the Park, held Buttercross and Palmerston Arms on the first Saturday of each month from 10am to 12 noon, with a break halfway and the option of enjoying probably the nicest coffee and cakes in are free. No previous knowledge of philosophy is necessary. The next Peterborough.”

12-week introductory course, The Around 25 to 35 people now attend the discussions, which are free, Philosophy of Harmonious Living, and soon Michael was being asked to run 12-week evening courses, similar starts in April, costs £50 and is held to those he tutored for 16 years in Cambridge. Then in autumn 2012, the on the first Wednesday of the month at Michael Reid landlord at the Palmerston Arms invited him to hold a monthly talk there.

7.15pm at the Friends Meeting House, On the Tuesday evening that I went along, I found a cluster of men and 21 Thorpe Road, Peterborough PE3 6AB. Michael Reid will be delivering women aged from late teen to senior, chatting amicably over a drink. “It’s the Church of Ideas Tuesday lunchtime lecture at St John the Baptist usually a different group of people at each location,” Michael says. “The Church, Cathedral Square, Peterborough on 9th April at 1pm. subjects are based on what they’ve expressed an interest in. Discussions n a cold and rainy winter’s night, 23 people gathered in the Palmerston Arms on the Oundle Road in Peterborough to talk philosophy. Not the usual kind of bar stool ‘putting the world to rights’ exchange but to listen to Michael Reid explore The Meaning of Life. Heavy stuff?

Surprisingly, no. Thoughtprovoking? Yes. Audience participation? Definitely.

Michael Reid says philosophy is fun and he’s been proving it to countless people over the years. He was 13 when the subject first grabbed his attention.

“I read Plato’s Symposium and was heartily shocked! It was an eye-opener for a teenage boy. It made me want to explore other philosopher’s ideas, which I’ve been doing ever since, particularly how they apply to daily life.”

After delving into Practical Philosophy at the School of Economic Science in London, he was asked to tutor evening courses at The School of Philosophy in Cambridge, which was formed to make the great philosophical teachings of the world available to everyone.

A Peterborough resident, Michael often wondered if people closer to home might also be interested, so in 2006 he arranged his first annual philosophy lecture in the city. It wasn’t an immediate success.

“I delivered it to four people, two of whom were my daughters, in the garden at Thorpe Hall, in the rain!” he laughs.

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ACT IVIT IE S

Your community needs you!

Volunteering doesn’t just help other people, it’s good for you, too. Rebecca Downey reports

P

erhaps you are an empty nester suddenly finding yourself with more time on your hands and wondering what to do next. Or possibly after many years of supporting your family you have been out of the work environment and lack the confidence and qualifications to pursue a career.

Perhaps you are a student wanting to gain some experience in your free time or maybe you are recently retired and considering how to fill your days or develop your own learning. Volunteering in the community can be a rewarding pursuit – not only are you benefitting those you help but you will most likely gain valuable experience and sometimes qualifications. Moreover, volunteer helpers feel a sense of satisfaction and discover the positive impact on their own personal development, skills and employability.

Research led by Professor Paul Whitely from the University of Essex revealed that there was a strong link between helping others and enjoying a good quality of life. It is no surprise that voluntary activity in the community is associated with better health, lower crime rate and improved educational performance. The National Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating resulted in 79% saying their volunteering helped them in terms of understanding and motivating others, while 60% reported greater knowledge attained through their work.

Age is no barrier with organisations valuing the youthful enthusiasm that student volunteers bring, as well as the wisdom and expertise of older generations. So if you have the time, energy and commitment to volunteer, look through our listings and see where you can make a difference. There is everything from befriending schemes for elderly citizens, helping at a soup kitchen, and volunteer driving.

Appropriate Adult Service coordinator Tel: 01733 864670 http://www.peterborough.gov.uk/ jobs_and_careers/volunteering.aspx Supporting vulnerable and young people in police custody to ensure they are treated properly, explain custody procedures and oversee their rights and entitlements.

Beanstalk, Northamptonshire Branch Tel: 01604 720969/0845 4500338 Email: northamptonshire@ beanstalkcharity.org.uk Website: http://www. beanstalkcharity.org.uk Voluntary reading scheme assisting local primary schools.

Communicare (GB) Ltd Tel: 01536 268807 Email: enquiries@communicare. uk.com Volunteer drivers needed to transport local residents to appointments.

Oundle Transition Town Group http://www.oundletransition.org.uk Voluntary group aiming to help local residents lead a greener lifestyle, develop community green spaces and promote skills exchange.

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Peterborough Environment City Trust Tel: 01733 568408 Email: info@pect.org.uk Independent charity working for a cleaner, greener, healthier city.

Peterborough & Fenland Mind Tel: 01733 758211 http://www.pfmind.org.uk Services and projects helping local people with mental health problems.

Peterborough Soup Kitchen Tel: 01733 315456 Email: enquiries@ peterbroughsoupkitchen.org.uk Website: http://www. peterboroughsoupkitchen.org.uk Volunteer Action Oundle Tel: 01832 275433 Email: volunteeraction.oundle@ virgin.net Website: http://www. volunteeractionoundle.org.uk Community car service for the elderly and disabled enabling independent living and a befriending scheme providing home visits and support.

Brian Morris and his grandson Noah.

Brian Morris (retired RAF Group Captain) is a volunteer at Welland Primary School, Peterborough. He says:

I

volunteer as a reader helper through an organisation called Beanstalk. Volunteers are expected to work for three hours a week across two sessions assisting school children one-to-one with their reading development.

I was inspired by reading with my grandchildren and found out about the scheme through my local library. Volunteers receive training at Barrett House in Northamptonshire and undergo CRB and reference checks. A support worker supervisor does an initial assessment prior to working in the school and is available for help and queries.

The main challenge for me has been working with children who don’t have English as a first language or who are really struggling with their reading. My approach is to build their confidence so we often do word searches, dot-to-dot and colouring as well as reading. Seeing their ability improve and the effect it has on their self esteem has been the most rewarding aspect of my work.

Primary school is a predominantly female environment so perhaps I am a male role model for boys needing extra help. It has been a real insight for me to see how schools are run and the techniques teachers now use. I have realised that a lot of children get very little help at home, particularly where there is a language barrier so it is a delight to see children take pride in their work and want to come and read.

The advice I would give to others wanting to volunteer is that it helps to be patient and encouraging. I used to teach cadets in the RAF so I felt I had the communication skills in place. But with children, you must be a good listener and prepared to go at their pace.

My rationale is that I have been lucky in life and I want to give a bit back. I am passionate about reading and I believe literacy is fundamental to learning. If I can help some children in that respect, then I hope I can improve their lives and enhance their future.

NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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Advertisement Feature

Use it,Don’t lose it.

We have written a number of articles over time which are intended to be of interest and be educational.

At the time of writing I am on a train from Peterborough to Norwich contemplating the content.

R

eminding people to utilise their end of year ISA allowances which can shelter £11,280 from tax (bar the dividend tax credit) or to rebase some assets with capital gains does seem a bit old hat, however, the choice is to either use them or pay more tax.

If you do use these tax wrappers, then what investments should be held? This depends on your attitude to risk and capacity to accept risk based on your other assets as well as the outlook for different assets going forwards.

Cash deposit rates have fallen and the Government has confirmed that loose monetary policy and low central bank rates will remain policy for some time, probably another 3 years plus. This doesn’t bode well for cash returns.

Sterling’s devaluation against the Dollar is also a concern and likely to be inflationary. The Government has moved away from the low

inflation policy and with the cost of food and energy likely to rise it is possible that inflation is going to increase in the medium term. Finding a way to protect against this may be important.

Higher inflation may well impact on the capital values of fixed interest assets which are openly traded such as corporate bonds and gilts.

Equity markets are currently benefiting from the poor perceived returns from lower risk assets, increasing investor confidence, loose monetary policy (the money has to find its way into some form of asset) and concerns about inflation. The case for equities should not be ignored but do not get carried away – as always seek a spread of assets designed for the longer

term and with your risk profile in mind.

Use your ISAs if you can and remember that for many (and despite the best efforts of the Government) pensions should not be overlooked.

For those with larger estates using the annual IHT exemptions can also be useful.

• Please call us at Waveney McKenna on 01733 425818. Waveney McKenna Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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20/3/13 14:07:44

MOT OR ING

So just how much does a car cost to run?

Do you know how much of your disposable income you spend on running your car?

The chances are that you don’t. Ashley Martin does the sums

D

ata from the Office of National Statistics suggests that the average household spends more on transport per week than anything else excluding mortgage costs.

Meanwhile, for the first time, the RAC Foundation has used Office of National Statistics to calculate that some car-owning households are spending up to 31% of their disposable income on running a vehicle putting them in ‘car poverty’.

The data also reveals that the poorer the carowning household the more of their disposable income is being spent on buying and running a car.

Car-owning households with disposable income of £394 a week or more spend 14-16% of that on car-related costs, according to the RAC Foundation.

Households with less disposable income spend proportionately more of their income on car-related costs, according to the analysis of ten disposable income categories based on 2011 Office of National Statistics figures.

Those car-owning families in the lowest disposable income category - up to £167 per week - could be spending 27% (£44.40) of their weekly disposable income on motoring costs; while those with disposable income of £168£245 per week could be spending up to 31% (£52.50) on car costs.

Households with disposable weekly income between £246 and £393 are spending up to 23% on car costs, according to the figures.

The data has led the RAC Foundation to declare that the poorest 10% of car-owning households in the UK - approximately 800,000 homes - are mired in transport poverty as they are spending at least 27% of their disposable

32

income on buying and running a vehicle.

Meanwhile, at the top end of weekly disposable incomes - from £1,105 - the percentage of cash spent on cars reduces to 15%. Indeed the report shows that above a weekly disposable income of £394 the percentage spent on operating a car varies little.

Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “We already knew transport was the single biggest area of household expenditure bar none. But this spending breakdown just for car-owning households is not normally available. It lays bare the truth about the extent of transport poverty in the UK.” The data takes into account a range of car related costs including: money spent acquiring a car, vehicle accessories, fuel, repairs and servicing, insurance, subscriptions to motoring organisations such as the AA and RAC, Vehicle Excise Duty, motoring-related fines and car parking.

According to the Office of National Statistics household (car and non-car owning) spending on transport averaged £65.70 a week out of total average income of £483.60 in 2011, the most recent year for which data is available.

The second highest category of spending was recreation and culture, at £63.90 a week - including money spent on televisions, computers, newspapers, books, leisure activities and package holidays. The third highest category of spending was housing (excluding mortgage costs), fuel and power, at £63.30 a week, followed by food and non-alcoholic drink purchases, which contributed £54.80 to weekly household expenditure.

Perhaps not surprisingly the greater a household’s income the more they spend on fuel, according to the RAC Foundation. That will almost certainly reflect both the type of journeys clocked up and the type of cars driven.

However, the continuing challenging economic conditions means that the volume of petrol and diesel purchased is falling, according to new data from HM Revenue and Customs.

In January UK petrol sales fell to the lowest tracked by Government in 23 years and diesel also fell close to its all-time low recorded in January 2009.

Edmund King, president of the AA motoring organisation says that pump prices have “broken the back of many family budgets”.

Meanwhile, a household is currently said to be in fuel poverty if it needs to spend more than 10% of its income on fuel to maintain a satisfactory heating regime - usually 21 degrees Celsius for the main living area, and 18 degrees Celsius for other occupied rooms - according to the Government.

Campaigners say there are currently six million UK families living in fuel poverty and that number could rise to nine million by 2016.

Whether or not a household is in fuel poverty is determined by a number of factors: the energy efficiency of the property, the cost of energy and household income.

Reflecting on the figures compiled by the RAC Foundation, Professor Glaister said: “There is understandable concern about home owners having to spend more than 10% of their money on heating their houses. But to most of us transport is another essential item and our outgoings on getting about eclipse all other domestic bills.”

NENE VALLEY LIVING april 2013

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• NVL April ADS.indd 33

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• NVL April ADS.indd 34

20/3/13 14:08:11

L OCA L WALK

Manton to Brooke and back This is an easy and delightful walk that has just about everything – ridges, grand views, tranquil villages, rivers, even a deserted village Martinsthorpe Martinsthorpe is a deserted village. Only one building remains on the site amidst what appears to be a jumble of earthworks, but was once home to a hamlet of about 70. There is an interpretation board as you leave the site on the far side just over the cattle crossing, which is worth looking at.

WALK DATA: Distance Typical time OS map Start & finish Terrain Stiles Dog friendly How to get there

5 miles 2 hours Explorer 223 &224 or Landranger 141 (always walk with a map) Manton Straightforward and well marked None Except for cattle grids and several fields with sheep Southwest side of Rutland Water, just off the A6003

Brooke Brooke is a truly quaint village with a tiny church, which featured in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. There is also a good interpretation board here to the right of the entrance to the church.

DIRECTIONS

Refreshments • Horse & Jockey, Manton Tel: 01572 737335 www.horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk . This pub is always very popular with cyclists, and offers good beer (Oakham Ales) & pub food, plus the chance to sit outside on a sunny day

1

Park in the road leading down to the Horse & Jockey at Manton, on the west end of the village; walk along the road to the main Oakham/ Uppingham Rd. Cross carefully and join a bridleway on the other side that heads due west, through the deserted village of Martinsthorpe and thence to the main Brooke Rd. You will know that you have come to the deserted village when you spot a recently renovated stable block and significant earthworks On reaching the main Brooke Rd, turn right, enter the village and bear right at the junction, with the church then in front of you; continue on down the road to the left of the church; over the River Gwash and then take a right turn along a bridleway This path then takes you almost due east towards Gunthorpe; as it approaches Gunthorpe, it turns in to a metalled track; do not go through the farmyard, the track goes through a gate 30 yards to the right, and then behind Gunthorpe Hall, with their stables The path takes off west across the field on the other side of the Hall, leaving the Hall directly behind you; you pass through a wood and reach the railway line; cross carefully via a pedestrian level crossing On reaching the main (busy) road turn right; stay on the left verge, until in a few minutes you join up with the main Rutland Water cycle circuit; stay on this back to Manton and the pub.

2

3

4 5

Brooke

3

Gunthorpe 4 5

Manton

2

Martinsthorpe

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NENE VALLEY LIVING APRIL 2013

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Rutland Tel. Shutters

Made to measure Plantation Shutters For a free brochure or quotation contact 01664 474013 Mob. 07768 695236

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D IA RY DAT E S

April 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY

Saturday 20 April Grow Your Own Day at Sacrewell Farm Get to grips with everything you need to grow your own fruit and vegetables in small window containers or huge vegetable plots. £21.50 (Family) £6.25 (£5.95) Child (£5.25). Sacrewell Farm, Thornhaugh, Peterborough, PE8 6HJ, 01780 782254. www.sacrewell.org.uk.

What’s On

Great events taking place this April. By Yasmin Bradley Every Thursday 7 -8.30pm A Handful of Harmonies - a new ladies’ choir Come and experience first -hand the pleasure of singing together.

Laxton Junior School, East Road, Oundle PE8 4BX. 01775 711449. www.handfulofharmonies.co.uk

Monday 1 April Easter Trail Fun at Lyveden New Bield 11am - 4.00pm Wrap up warm to explore the grounds and lodge - all-terrain pushchairs and baby backpacks recommended- collect clues to solve the puzzle and get a delicious Cadbury’s Easter egg! £4.50 – children free. 01832 205358. lyveden@nationaltrust.org. uk Lyveden New Build near Oundle, PE8 5AT Friday 5 April Oundle Festival: Ministry of Angels 7.45pm Early and traditional music specialists, The Society of Strange and Ancient Instruments explore the music of angels using unusual and ethereal-sounding instruments. £12.00 (£10.00); £8.00 children. www.oundlefestival.org.uk. St Peters Church, Church St, Oundle, PE8 4EE. 01832 275675.

Saturday 6 April Fermynwoods’ Contemporary Art Owl Project: Saw and Treadle Machine Performance 5.30 – 7pm Join the Owl Project artists at the first live performance of their new sound machine demonstrating the sonic potential of woodworking and saw blades!

Free. Brigstock Village Hall, Bridge Street, Brigstock, NN14 3ET. 01832 733009. james@ fermynwoods.co.uk. www. fermynwoods.co.uk

Wednesday 17 April Author’s Evening at Clare Cottage: The Great Oceans of Truth - 7pm Professor Peter Wadhams from Cambridge University presents an illustrated talk about his circumnavigation of the Americas. £6 including a glass of wine and light refreshments. Clare Cottage, Woodgate, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330. www. clarecottage.org.

Saturday 20 April Voices and Brass 7.30pm Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and the Peterborough Youth Choir join forces with the spectacular, internationally-acclaimed Grimethorpe Colliery Band. This should be a real treat of an evening. £10.40 - £21.00. 01733 452336. www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk.

Kingsgate Auditorium, Parnwell, Peterborough, PE1 4YT Sunday 21 April Glass House Eclectic 3 -7pm Familiar and improvised live music, a licensed bar and a relaxing atmosphere for all ages - families especially welcome.

Free. Lounge Bar, Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207237. key.theatre@ vivacity-peterborough.com. Key. theatre@vivacity-peterborough.ac.uk Tuesday 23 April Collective noun: an evening with

four Poet Laureates 7.30pm – 10pm Take a poetic pew to celebrate the contribution of our local Laureates. £3 on the door. St John’s the Baptist, Church St, Peterborough, PE1 1XE. 01733 564899.

Wednesday 24 April VOCES8 7.45pm Extraordinary a cappella, close harmony ensemble with workshops during the day. £12 (£10) from Oundle Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle, 01832 274734.

Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ. Thursday 25th April Snap. Catch. Slam.

7.45pm Three real-life and emotionallycharged stories focusing on devastating and life-changing moments.

Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EJ. 01832 273930. www.oundleschool.org.uk/ arts/theatre/about.php Friday 26 April Howard Alden at Peterborough Jazz Club - 8pm Don’t miss fabulous virtuoso American guitarist Howard Alden’s first appearance locally. £13. 01733 571764. enquiries@ peterboroughjazzclub.co.uk. www. peterboroughjazzclub.co.uk. Great Northern Hotel, Station Approach, Peterborough, PE1 1QL

NENE VALLEY LIVING april 2013

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DIRECTORY

PILATES

CAR VALETING

Guaranteed Personal Service from a Local Family Business

PROFESSIONAL MOBILE CAR VALETING PROFESSIONAL

MOBILE CAR TEL: TOM 07538 VALETING 402555 TEL: TOM 402555 WE COME TO YOU07538 7 DAYS A WEEK WE COME TO YOU 7 DAYS A WEEK

YOUR CAR VALETED TO SHOWROOM

YOUR CAR VALETED TO SHOWROOM CONDITION FROM CONDITION FROM JUSTJUST £20 £20 20 POINT CHECK LIST REPORT 20 POINT CHECK LISTALL REPORTVALETS WITH ALL VALETS WITH

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RING FOR FULL DETAILS. CRB CHECKED

HEALTH

HYPNO-SLIMMING

PHYSIOTHERAPY

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Telephone 01733 768839 Peterborough Hypnotherapy Clinic, 26 Priestgate, Peterborough City Centre.

Free initial consultation www.curativehypnotherapy.com

Physiotherapy Appointments

now available in Oundle

For more information, call our main clinic in Peterborough on

01733 565911 or visit www.prestonsphysio.com “Caring for the people of Peterborough and beyond for over 40 years”

Best Local Walks and Best Local Bike Rides are stunningly produced A5 guidebooks describing 20 spectacular walks or bike rides in detail with maps, pictures and directions.

They also describe points of interest on each route and the best places to find refreshments.

rides

20 best

Spectacular rides around cycle Stamford, Rutla nd, Harborough and the Nene Valley

0

£3.50

ISSN 175 7-747

In association with Rutland Cycling

BIKE

20 Best Local Bike Rides

local

FREE FITTING Windows, Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Conservatories, Car Ports, All Weather Canopies, Patio Awnings, Fascia & Guttering, Roller Garage Doors, Roller Shutters, Sliding Grilles, Security Bars, Steel Shutters, Shop Fronts, Domestic and Commercial Systems, Mesh Grilles, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Roller Blinds

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Living

20 spectacular bike rides around Stamford, Rutland, Harborough and the Nene Valley

walks 20 Best Local Walks 20 best local

In association with Barnack Country Clothes

around Spectacular walks, Harborough Stamford, Rutland and the Nene Valley

470 ISSN 1757-7

£3.50

Living

20 spectacular walks around Stamford, Rutland, Harborough and the Nene Valley.

Please enclose a cheque for £3.50 per booklet, made payable to Local Living, select which title you wish and return to: PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY.

Or order online at:

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk • NVL April.indd 47

NEW SHOWROOM 67 South Street, Stanground, Peterborough Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Telephone 01733 342888 www.manorwindows.net

21/3/13 10:28:34

52889 GW Delcor Spring Sale Stamford Living Mag 297x210 07/03/2013 13:04 Page 1

In an off the peg world, live bespoke.

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• NVL April ADS.indd 39

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A 17th Century Hotel with a 21st Century Twist

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Delicious award winning food, real ales and a selection of Traditional bar with roaring log Private dining Stylish accommodation Fully licensed wedding venue Meeting rooms with conference facilities

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The Talbot Hotel New Street, Oundle Northamptonshire, PE8 4EA T: 01832 273621 F: 01832 274545 E: talbot@bpcmail.co.uk www.thetalbot-oundle.com www.facebook.com/talbotoundle www.twitter.com/talbothotel

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Oundle, Nr Peterborough • NVL April ADS.indd 40

20/3/13 14:08:50