Nene Valley Living December 2012

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NENE VALLEY LIVING FOOD/FASHION/HEALTH

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f o t i r i p s e h T s a m t s Ch ri Food, drink and music

£1.50 DECEMBER 2012

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N ENE VA L L EY LIVING

Cover shot: Christmas baubles by Lesley Anne Churchill. Styling: Fiona Cumberpatch

This Issue D ECEM BER 2012

F

or December, we’ve gathered together all the elements of a traditional Christmas and given them a typically local Nene Living spin.

We’ve found delicious food and drink, a wonderful walk, interesting books, music, gifts, sights and events to fill you with the festive spirit. And if you do want to venture further afield with your family, there’s a great guide to finding the seasonal highlights in London with some very special activities to take part in with children.

If you’re still looking for gifts, why not buy from a local artist? We have so many talented people in the region, some of them are now selling from a new shop, Art in the Heart in Bridge Street, Peterborough, which is well worth visiting, not least for artist Jeni Cairns’ beautiful winter wonderland window display.

I’m also very keen on the work of Claire Morris-Wright, a local printmaker.

She is inspired by our landscape, and is a founder member and tutor for Leicester Print Workshop. Check out Claire’s website, www.clairemorris-wright.com For me, the Christmas break is all about having time to spend with family and friends, to explore the local countryside (still so many footpaths that I haven’t tried) and read the books that have been waiting for a break in the routine. If you need some inspiration on that score, see our Books of the Year feature on page 28.

One small amend from last month: the dry stone wall courses are bookable on 01832 280494.

Happy Christmas to our readers and advertisers. Your support, and your feedback, is greatly appreciated.

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor

5 Editor’s selection

Treats for the festive season

7 Upfront

News from local businesses

8 Upfront

Christmassy events to enjoy

11 Upfront

The Red Lion, Warmington, reviewed

2 8 Best reads of 2012

Local people select their favourite books

31 Health and beauty notes News and offers from local health and beauty businesses

34 Top brass

Behind the scenes with the Nassington and Yarwell Britannia Brass Band

1 2 The Feast of Christmas Favourite festive foods

15 It’s a wrap!

Create a perfectly pretty present

18 All things bright and beautiful Peterborough’s jewellery shops

20 Food news Tea at Margaret’s

23 Have a merry (stress-free) Christmas Dine out on the Big Day

25 Sparkle and shine Party fashion

3 7 A capital day out Magical moments in London

41 Christmas quiz Local dialect conundrums

42 Local walk

Work off your Christmas lunch

45 Diary dates

Brilliant events for December

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

Subscribe to Nene Valley Living

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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 DECEMBER 2012

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G R EAT S E lECTi on of BiG nAME BRA n D S

Ideal ChrI stmas pres ent s f or the men I n your lI fe

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Gift voucherS available

Mon – fri 10am to 5pm, Sat 9.30am to 4.30pm Sunday - 11am to 3.30pm,

StockiStS of:

oakman | life & limb Raging Bull | fuBu | Gabicci Double Two and many more…

closed 25th, 26th Dec and 1st Jan

Tel: 01733 568 200 www.bigonstyle.co.uk Tailoring & alterations?

Try our in-house Seamstress for all your sewing needs 5 Breyden Centre, Padholme Road East, Peterborough, PE1 5UX (A1139 Junction 5 - adjacent to McDonalds & opposite Homebase)

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SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT 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

bringing kitchens to life...

Peartree Farm Tearoom Breakfasts • Hot Lunches Daily Homemade Cakes • Light Snacks/Lunches Our tearoom is in the main street of Aldwincle in a superbly renovated farm milking barn with an outside patio area.

There is off road parking in a car park.



Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Est

1981 - 31 Years

!

Daily Specials Private Functions catered for Traditional Sunday Lunch available Prior booking is essential to avoid disappointment

We are open daily from 11am till 3pm (Mondays) - 10.30am till 4pm (Tuesday - Sunday) For group bookings, please telephone

01832 720055

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.

Located in the heart of the Nene Valley where canoeing is fast becoming a must, the cottages are halfway between the market towns of Oundle & Thrapston. Access by major roads is excellent and the cottages are ideal for walking, cycling, fishing (fly) or just plain relaxing.

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

RANGEMASTER DESIGN CENTRE WITH OVER 20 RANGE COOKERS ON SHOW

Showroom with 32 of the latest room settings The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA

T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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B E AU T I F U L B UY S , B O O K S A ND THINGS TO D O FOR CHR I STM AS

Editor’s selection 3

A little bit Narnia?

Winter picnic hamper, £250, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Glitter stripe white and green bauble, £1.50 each, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Scandalous goings on at Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, are revealed in a new, meticulously researched book by Catherine Bailey. If you enjoy local history, you’ll love this.

Viking. £20, to order from The Oundle Bookshop Tel: 01832 273523

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Handmade angels by local textile artis t Emma Raffle, from a se lection at Art in the Heart, 47 Bridge Street, Peterborough PE 1 1HA

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Meet some real reindeer at Elton Hall Garden Store’s Reindeer Day on Sunday December 2nd, between 11am – 3pm.

Charity collection for Cats Protection League and Wood Green Animal Shelter. Elton Hall Garden Store, PE8 6SH Tel: 01832 280058

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Boiled wool polar bear, £4.50, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Make home made goodies for a thrifty gift. £3.49 for a 1000ml glass jar, from Hobbycraft Robin napkins, £10 for a set of four, from local designer Sophie Allport, www. at Peterborough Garden Park, www.hobbycraft.co.uk sophieallport.com or call 0845 0177 860

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NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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Beautiful furniture designed and handcrafted in our Northumberland workshop for over 45 years.

All made to order furniture carries a 20 year frame construction guarantee

Showrooms nationwide

Tel: 01780 430 430

30 Bath Row, Rear of St. Marys Hill, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2QX

www.delcor.co.uk

Made in England

stamford@delcor.co.uk

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront Beautiful furniture from Delcor

If you thought the art of creating beautiful furniture went out with Chippendale – think again. Delcor has been manufacturing stylish bespoke furniture since the mid 1960’s from its showroom and manufacturing headquarters at Seaton Delaval near the Northumberland coast. Under the direction of managing director Rick Petini, skilled craftsmen continue to create high quality furniture using the finest sustainable woods, top grade upholstery and top of the range fabrics. Everything comes out

of Seaton Delaval – the ideas, the designs, the manufacture, upholstery and covering, delivery and after-care. Delcor will even store your furniture at no extra charge until you move in – or your room is ready.

Now Delcor has opened a 4,800 square foot store at Bath Row, Stamford to satisfy growing demand. The opening follows on from the success of the company’s operations in Seaton Delaval, Northumberland, King’s Road, Chelsea and Harrogate.

Delcor’s main focus is on sofas, chairs, footstools and divans in a range of designs and coverings. Every piece of furniture is bespoke so clients can ‘mix and match’ to create their own individual setting.

MD Rick Petini identified Stamford as a perfect location for the new store: “Stamford is a beautiful county town with many fine historic houses. We’re confident that our beautiful British-made bespoke furniture will attract property owners both locally and regionally.”

• www.delcor.co.uk 30 Bath Row, Rear of St Marys Hill, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2QX 01780 430 430 stamford@delcor.co.uk

Happy Anniversary, Designer Leathers

Designer Leathers is proud to celebrate 25 years of independent retailing in Peterborough.

This family run business has continued to grow, evolving against a backdrop of everchanging trading conditions. Joel and Aimee Lewis have now launched a website and gift vouchers have been introduced just in time for Christmas. Suppliers of quality leather and sheepskin jackets and coats since 1987, the business has expanded to include handbags and accessories, and they are particularly proud of their status as a Radley select store. You might also spot a pair of leather trousers or a soft leather shirt if you pop upstairs. High standards of service combined with the best quality leather from Italy and other established sources come at competitive prices.

• Try the online quick quiz to win a £50 voucher. www.designerleathers.co.uk 8 Queen Street, Peterborough Tel: 01733 348917

Plus sized fashion for men Peterborough clothes shop Big on Style is now stocking the Raging Bull fashion range by England rugby player Phil Vickery. Rugby shirts, polo shirts, v neck sweaters, gilets, jogging bottoms, and quarter zip tops are all on offer from the new range, at the store which specialises in clothing for the larger man. Big on Style, which is situated at the Breydon Centre, Padholme Road East (opposite Homebase), has a wide range of clothing available, including suits, formal jackets and winter coats, shirts, underwear, swimwear, pyjamas and dressing gowns. The business has been established for ten years, and stocks sizes from XL to 8XL. With a professional and helpful staff, there is also an in-house alteration service on site, with a seamstress who has more than 35 years experience, so clothes can be adjusted to fit perfectly.

Other brands stocked in store include Oakman, Life and Limb, Gabicci, Duke, Jockey and Campione of Italy. With plenty of free parking and a nopressure environment in which to browse, it’s a one stop shop for men to get kitted out this winter, and there are some great gift ideas, too.

• Open seven days a week, Monday –Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm and Sundays, 11am to 3.30pm. 5 The Breydon Centre, Padholme Road East, Peteborough PE1 5UX. Tel: 01733 568200 www.bigonstyle.co.uk

Stress-free gift shopping Avoid the crowds at independent gift store Cloudnine in Market Deeping this year.

You’ll find lots of lovely home accessories and gifts, sourced by owner Alison, who opened her shop two years ago.

“When new visitors come and browse it’s rewarding to hear lots of lovely comments and it’s not long before they become regular customers,” says Alison. This Christmas, she is stocking jewellery, frames, watches, bath bombs, candles and pocket money toys.

• Open on Sundays in December, 11am3pm. www.cloudninedeeping.co.uk 7A High Street, Market Deeping PE6 8ED Tel: 01778 341190

Christmas tree festival at Helpston Don’t miss the pretty tree festival in St Botolph’s Church, Helpston, on December 8th, 10am-5pm and December 9th, 12 – 5pm. As well as some beautifully and imaginatively decorated trees, there will be a cake stall, craft stall, refreshments and singing from school choirs. Admission is free.

Support British makers The Merge Contemporary Christmas Craft Fair takes place at The Great Hall, Oundle on the 8th and 9th December, 10am-4pm.

Organiser Zoe Garner promises: “the best of British crafts with a fantastic show that will please all tastes. Merge is the most inspiring craft fair you will find in the area, with only the best of the best.” Admission is £2, children free. It includes entry into a prize draw with a £100 voucher to spend at the show.

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront Open for business at Brotherhood Retail Park The Brotherhood Retail Park, Peterborough is now open for business. A wide range of chain stores, including George Living, Outfit, H&M and Next are situated in the new mall, along with a large new M&S. Craig Burton, M&S store manager says: “we have a very large food hall here in store, with a bakery, and there is a showpiece beauty area, where we source brands from around the world and offer demonstrations and beauty expertise. Our homes department has a new look and new concept: we have order hubs, where assistants with iPads can order any items that are not in stock and arrange collection. Then we have all the M&S clothing ranges, displayed in distinct Craig Burton, Store Manager at areas, and a 92-seat café, serving M&S, Brotherhood Retail Park breads and pastries which are baked in store. The initial response from local customers has been brilliant, they are impressed with the range of goods and services on offer.” M&S Brotherhood Peterborough has later opening hours, from 8am-8pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am-4.30pm on Sundays.

Christmas specials

Add these festive dates to your diary: Historic Christmas Fayre in the Cathedral Precincts and at Peterborough Museum Thursday 13th- Sunday 16th December, 10am-9pm daily (10am-5pm Sunday) A new event for 2012, visit a period market with unusual gift ideas, alongside entertainers, musicians, re-enactors and jesters. Then head over to the Museum to a craft fair with local stallholders selling the best of local products. Free admission.

Mother Goose at the Key Theatre, Peterborough Classic panto, written and directed by Michael Cross, and featuring a cast of local talent and professional actors. A score of great songs, special effects and two hours of family fun.

From December 6th to January 6th. Box office: 01733 207239 Christmas baby sale New and nearly new clothing, toys, books, equipment and nursery items for babies and toddlers, on Saturday 15th December, Austin Hall Amenity Centre, Yaxley, 1pm-3pm. Proceeds to the Amazon Children’s Ward at Peterborough City Hospital. Call Tracy Whitwell on 07769717982 for more info.

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ASK THE

expert

What’s new in pensions?

Kerry Hilliard of Stephenson Smart & Co answers questions about the recent changes in pensions legislation which is aimed at encouraging people to save for retirement.

What is the change to workplace pensions?

For the first time, employers will be required to enrol eligible employees automatically into a workplace pension scheme. The changes came into force in October 2012 and will initially affect only the largest employers. Over time more employers will be phased in to the scheme with all expected to join by 2018.

Who is eligible?

Employees working in the UK will automatically be enrolled if they are aged between 22 and the state pension age, and earn more than £8,105 per year. Initially, a minimum contribution of 1% (including tax relief) of the employees pay will be automatically invested into the scheme and employers must contribute an additional 1%. These contributions are gradually set to rise to 5% from the employee and 3% from the employer.

Can I opt out?

Employees will have the right to opt out, but if they haven’t done this within one month of enrolment then the contributions already paid will not be refunded. Employers must not encourage employees to opt out of the scheme and any employees who have left will automatically be enrolled again after three years.

What do I need to do if I am an employer?

If you are an employer who already provides a workplace pension scheme, you will need to check that the scheme meets the new requirements. Those employers who do not already have a qualifying scheme will need to find a suitable pension provider or use the governments NEST (National Employment Savings Trust) scheme.

Employers will need to carefully assess the potential impact of these changes on their business, ensuring that they are aware of when they will need to act, and that they are prepared for any additional administrative burden and financial cost.

• For more information and help contact Stephenson Smart & Co Tel: 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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Go East for your Christmas party and New Year celebration Superb Oriental menus perfectly complimented by our contemporary wine list with a selection of locally brewed award winning Oakham Ales

Start your New Year’s Eve with a complimentary glass of bubbly.

Dinner served from 5:30-10:30pm.

Call now for reservations.

Complete your evening with a drink in the Real Ale emporium that is Charters Bar, situated on the lower deck. Live band ‘Children of the Revolution’ will be playing on New Year’s Eve – advance tickets for the bar just £10 per person.

Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough

01733 315702 www.east-restaurant.co.uk

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NORMANS

GREENGROCERS AND FLORIST MARKET PLACE - OUNDLE Come to Normans for all your fresh Christmas Decorations at reasonable prices.

We have daily deliveries of good quality plants and flowers throughout the year .

We make to order individual Door Wreaths , decorated Holly Wreaths, Fireplace Garlands, Table Centre Arrangements ,Candle Arrangements and beautiful Hand Tied Bouquets .

Good quality Cyclamen plants , Azaleas and Hyacinth bulbs, Orchids and other Seasonal Plants.

Call in now for a Christmas Order Form or telephone 01832 273545 to discuss your requirements e: normansoundle@hotmail.co.uk www.normansoundle.co.uk

Stu-Pots

36 Market Place Oundle 01832 275414 Look for the Cooks Companion Leaflet coming through your door

Sodastream stockist

The Wansford Cakery •

• •

•

•

Homemade cakes & filled baguettes Cupcakes made to order Wedding, Birthdays... ...all occasions!

Fresh ground coffee & tea to takeaway Olives Et Al and Tracklements stockist

Council approved bio-degradable bags in stock

Full key cutting service: Cylinder, Mortice, Chubb, Union, Yale, Safe, Car and Padlock

Christmas cupcakes and mince pies available in the shop and to order until 21st Dec. Winter opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-3pm

THE RED LION Warmington LUNCHTIME SPECIALS £8.95 - Tue – Sat Early Doors Buy ONE meal & get another HALF PRICE Tue – Sat (table clear by 8pm but only if required)

• Freehouse • Real Home Produced Food • Homemade Desserts • Quality Real Ales • Warm friendly welcome

The Famous Red Lion Sunday Lunch Serving 12 noon and 2.30 (booking essential)

Closed Mondays Peterborough Road, Warmington, PE8 6TN - T: 01832 280362 Email: theredlionwarmington@gmail.com Web: www.theredlionwarmington.co.uk 10

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UpFront MAKE IT!

Christmas bread and butter pudding We asked Marcus Lamb, owner and chef at The Crown Inn, Elton, to share his favourite festive recipe

M

arcus says: “I thought I’d pass on a cheeky little twist on Christmas pudding which we’ve included in our seasonal menu at The Crown. Bread and butter pudding is seriously underrated, amazing given its sheer decadence. In ours, we’re using apple and cinnamon flavours to give a Christmas edge to this British classic.”

You’ll need: For the pudding • 600g dried, mixed fruit • 250g British apples, peeled, cored and diced small • 200g muscovado sugar • 125g shredded suet • Juice and zest of one lemon and one orange • One teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg • One teaspoon cinnamon • 100ml of sherry • 100ml of port

For the creamy custard • 700ml single cream • 100ml double cream • 200g sugar • Four free range eggs For construction purposes • Nine slices good quality white bread • Butter • Demerara sugar • Pre-heat your oven to 180 degrees centigrade. Put all your lovely pudding ingredients into a large, thick-bottomed pan.

Heat the mixture up gently on a low heat until all the liquids are nicely absorbed.

• For the creamy custard, start by beating the four free range eggs and blending them with the sugar. Set to one side. Then, bring the double and single creams to the boil, gently, in a pan. Once bubbling, add your eggs and sugar mix and whisk. Then reduce the heat and stir gently until it thickens. The perfect mixture should coat the back of a wooden spoon. Be careful to keep your heat gentle, you don’t want to scramble your custard.

• Now take a 1kg terrine mould, grease and line with greaseproof paper.

• Nearly there! Now build your pudding.

NENE VALLEY LIVING

recommends THE RED LION, WARMINGTON

This is a particularly brilliant pub to visit on a winter’s evening, when the cosy dining room, candlelight and glowing copper antiques and fresh flowers create a welcoming atmosphere. My son Jack and I made an early visit one Friday evening at the end of a long week.

Jack was starving in the way that only teenage boys seem to be, and quickly placed his order of whitebait to start, followed by roast lamb.

The menu offers a great selection, from standard pub fayre, such as lasagne, to more sophisticated choices, such as Gressingham duck breast and plum sauce. The lunch menu is informal, and you can get a very satisfying one course meal for £8.95. There are also ‘early doors’ evening deals during the week.

A pleasant young waitress delivered a basket of fresh homemade bread and a pat of butter, along with our drinks, to our scrubbed pine table. I love the huge, starched linen napkins that are offered here, just one of the thoughtful touches provided by landlords Tim Stubbs and Richard Bright. Jack’s whitebait with tartare sauce arrived, piping hot, plump in the middle and crispy on the outside. Everything is cooked to order, there was absolutely no trace of the microwave. For

Take the slices of bread, butter both sides generously, and cover them completely in the demerara sugar. Place three at the bottom of the terrine mould to create a base, and add a generous layer of the fruity pudding mix.

Repeat this process for the second layer. For your third and final layer, finish with sugarcovered bread only, no fruit.

• Finally, drizzle over your delicious custard, and bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes.

Serve this hearty pud piping hot with lashings of brandy butter or brandy cream.

Follow with an afternoon stroll to The Crown, perhaps for a well- earned drink by the fire!

• Marcus’s mum’s excellent home cooking inspired his career as an award winning chef.

Born in the North East, he has developed his skills as a chef through working in restaurants in France, Scotland, the US and at Harrods, London. His food philosophy is simple: buy the best ingredients and cook them well. As a result, the menu at The Crown offers good, wholesome food, cooked to the highest standards.

• The Crown Inn, 8 Duck Street, Elton, PE8 6RQ Tel: 01832 280232 www.thecrowninn.org/

our mains, I had fillet of sea bass with prawn and dill sauce, with new potatoes and a selection of vegetables. The sauce was buttery and delicious, and the fish was moist underneath. Jack’s roast had no whistles and bells, it was a traditional plateful, with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and lots of the chef’s special gravy.

A generous portion, there was definitely enough to satisfy Jack, although he left room for the homemade chocolate truffle torte, a rich delight, well presented with strawberries and raspberries on a square white plate. This is good cooking, with generous portions, and great service, all served in a very friendly environment. Landlords Richard and Tim have been at the helm here since 2006, but have only recently purchased the pub, giving them greater freedom, and, I suspect, even better things to come.

Fiona Cumberpatch • The Red Lion, Warmington PE8 6TN Tel: 01832 280362. www.theredlionwarmington.co.uk. Closed Mondays. For opening times, see website.

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F O O D & D R INK

The feast of

Christmas What will you be tucking into on Christmas Day? Lucy Banwell asked five local foodies to share their festive favourites Photos: Lesley Anne Churchill

Jackie Thackeray, co-owner, Olive Grove Nurseries, Polebrook What’s your favourite Christmas food and why?

Pigs in blankets. Somehow they never taste quite the same any other time of the year.

Sally Knight, co-owner, Seven Wells Family Butchers, Oundle What’s your favourite Christmas food and why?

Definitely Christmas cake – the more gooey the better! I think it’s my favourite because it reminds me so much of the festive season. I make my own each year from a tried-and-tested Mary Berry recipe.

What’s your earliest Christmas foodie memory?

Having traditional Christmas lunch at my grandparents’ house in Yorkshire - roast turkey and all the trimmings including homemade bread sauce and a delicious sherry trifle.

How will you be spending Christmas Day this year?

At home on the farm in Stoke Doyle with my husband Robert and our boys, Harry, 16, and Freddie, 15. The cattle will be fed in the morning and then we’ll have a special breakfast of cooked ham with soft-boiled, free-range eggs and a glass of Bucks Fizz. Robert’s family are coming for lunch so there will be 14 of us tucking into rolled rib of Seven Wells beef, Yorkshire puddings and a variety of vegetables. After lunch we’ll open our presents, relax and watch some Christmas television hopefully the Downton Abbey Christmas edition!

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What’s your earliest Christmas foodie memory?

Waking up on a Christmas morning and rushing downstairs to find a satsuma inside my stocking and eating it whilst I checked out the gifts Santa had left. As a result of this lovely memory, my grown-up children still receive the same in their stockings.

How will you be spending Christmas Day this year?

My husband Tim and I will be driving over to Suffolk to spend the day with our eldest son Anthony, 32, daughter-in-law Sue and our grandchildren Ethan, 6, and Alexa, 4. We’ll watch them open their gifts from Santa and then have a traditional Christmas dinner with turkey and all the trimmings, probably washed down with a glass of wine or two!

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Dick Simpson Director, Nene Valley Brewery, Oundle What’s your favourite Christmas food and why?

Roast turkey, especially the dark meat. I really enjoy the way you can keep coming back to it for salads and sandwiches, adding lashings of Branston pickle, until finally it’s time to make a delicious soup from the carcass.

What’s your earliest Christmas foodie memory?

Stirring the Christmas pudding mixture with my mother in our kitchen in East Finchley and making a wish for a bicycle. Sadly no bike appeared!

How will you be spending Christmas Day this year?

I’ll be at home in Oundle with my wife Sarah and our two girls Stella, 12, and Eve, 9, as well as my sister and in-laws. We’ll be eating far too much traditional Christmas food and watching ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ I plan to brew something special for the holidays - a winter Mild which will be dark, but not heavy, with chocolate and caramel notes.

John Robinson, General Manager, The Talbot Hotel Eatery & Coffee House, Oundle What’s your favourite Christmas food and why?

Roast Norfolk Bronze Turkey with all the trimmings - pigs in blankets, apricot and sage stuffing and cranberry sauce. It’s Christmas on a plate!

What’s your earliest Christmas foodie memory?

Trying Turkish delight for the first time. My mother took me to Harrods Food Hall as a child and I remember being amazed by the counters crammed with different kinds of Christmas foods from around the world. I came away with a box of Turkish delight and that got me hooked on the stuff!

How will you be spending Christmas Day this year?

Welcoming all the guests and friends of the Hotel to enjoy the wonderful culinary delights our chef will be preparing.

Hopefully afterwards I’ll sit at home in front of the fire with my wife Anne and our two youngest sons Thomas, 16, and James, 13, and enjoy some Turkish delight!

Karen Gilbert, co-owner, Beans Coffee Shop, Oundle What’s your favourite Christmas food and why?

The special ham I make for Christmas breakfast. I cook it in advance with mustard and sugar and we have it cold with pork pie, brown bread, picked pears and Delia Smith’s Christmas chutney. I could do this meal any time of the year but keeping it just for Christmas makes it feel like more of an occasion.

What’s your earliest Christmas foodie memory?

Trifle and jelly for Christmas tea at home in Warmington. The rest of the year Sunday pudding was always tinned fruit with bread and butter to fill you up, but on Christmas Day there was no bread and butter in sight so that was a real treat!

How will you be spending Christmas Day this year?

My partner Jon and I are going to the French Alps to spend Christmas with friends. We’ll probably ski in the morning so we’ll have frites up the mountain followed by a caramel slice. I always take a job lot from Beans because our friends love them and they’re a great source of energy to keep us going on the slopes. Then it’ll be back to the chalet for Champagne and oysters and a classic Christmas dinner.

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Foxtail Lilly Festive flowers, wreaths, as well as beautiful gifts and vintage treasures.

Festive floral workshops too , call for details

0pen Wed – Sat - 10am till 5pm 41, South Road, Oundle

01832 274593

www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk

Crackers of Oundle Merry Christmas Ethnic meets Country Living Gifts & Accessories Wooden Toys • JellyCat Traditional Christmas Decorations St Eval Candle East of India & many more

3 New Street, Oundle, PE8 4EA Tel: 01832 274467

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SHOPPING

It’s a wrap!

A prettily wrapped present is one of life’s simple pleasures but it’s easier said than done. Fiona Cumberpatch took a John Lewis master class in the gentle art of gift wrapping Photos: Lesley Anne Churchill

I

f you’ve ever found yourself on Christmas Eve in a frenzy of Sellotape, tissue paper and bulging rolls of budget wrap, when all you really want to do is curl up in front of the fire with a drink and something good to eat, you’re probably not alone. Wrapping presents takes time. Wrapping them beautifully takes even longer. Around 20 minutes apiece, according to the expert, Katie Wand, customer support assistant at John Lewis. Katie should know. Each year, she and her team wrap hundreds of gifts for grateful customers at the Peterborough store. For just £3, they’ll transform awkwardly shaped items into symmetrical boxes, filled with tissue paper, then tightly wrapped in this season’s colours, and topped with a generous bow.

Katie volunteered to share some of her gift wrapping secrets with NVL, and invited me to an in-store master class to show exactly how it’s done. With her step-by-step tips, I was soon well on my way to producing a presentable present to put under my tree.

1

Put everything in a box, regardless of size or shape, as it makes wrapping so much easier. Measure the paper so it comes just a little over half way up the sides of the box.

2

Affix the first end of the paper to the box with sellotape, just past the centre of the box.

3

Using your fingers, ‘sharpen’ the edges around the box

4

Trim off any excess paper.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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THE PRACTICE INDEPENDENT boutique opticians in Peterborough’s Westgate Arcade.

A fantastic collection of frames from mainstream brands and specialist engineered frame designers. Rimless, lightweight, retro, geek sheek you decide. The Oculist specialises in wrap-around prescription eyewear and has a fantastic range for children.

OPTOMETRIST GERRY - Spends 40 minutes examining your eyes.

He caters the eye test to address your needs.

The test includes digital retinal photography, glaucoma pressure check, visual field examination as standard. Gerry concludes the examination by giving advice about the most suitable eyewear.

DISPENSING OPTICIAN EMMA - Helps you find the “perfect “ pair of glasses. Emma analyses your prescription and finds the perfect frame to compliment your face and personality. She also designs bespoke frames in almost any colour, style and shape. She can provide lens thicknesses and weight for your chosen frame.

The Oculist uses spectacle lenses from all suppliers but benefits from being the only SEIKO lens specialist opticians in Peterborough.

STYLE CONSULTANT LISA – Gets you to try on styles outside your comfort zone, she helps you compliment your current look or help you start a new look.

INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS

01733 555621 info@theoculist.com www.theoculist.com

24 WESTGATE ARCADE, QUEENSGATE CENTRE,PETERBOROUGH PE1 1PY

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SHOPPING

Where to buy wrapping supplies

5

For neat ends, push in the paper at either side at the end of your parcel, it will form a natural fold.

Stick each side with tape.

• John Lewis offer a full range of ribbon, double sided sticky tape and six ranges of wrapping paper, including Christmas Stitch and Christmas Wonderland, new for this year.

6

Use double sided sticky tape along the edge and bring the points together, snipping off the ends if needed. Make sure they are even and meet in the middle.

• For a huge range of well-priced, pretty ribbons, try the haberdashery stall at Peterborough City Market.

• For some unusual stamps to make tags, and some gorgeous wrap, Paradise Found in St Mary’s Street, Stamford, is a trove of ideas • Oundle in Stitches, Market Place, Oundle, offers ribbon from as little as 26p per metre, and useful craft tools such as pinking shears

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9

Make a neat join. Repeat at the other end of your parcel.

Take your ribbon and start on the top of your box, as shown in the photo.

8

Now you’re ready to tie the bow. You’ll need around three metres of ribbon, that’s approximately three arm lengths, much more than you might imagine.

10 14

Loop the ribbon all the way around the parcel, feeding the ends underneath.

• Foxtail Lilly, in South Road, Oundle, has ribbons, coloured raffia and tissue in tasteful colours.

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Tie a knot.

Repeat the wrapping technique to accommodate all sizes of gift.

12 13

Now make a bow, it’s just like doing up your shoe laces.

To make a ‘tail’ on your bow, hold the ends of the ribbon together, fold in half and cut out from the centre

15

Despite a few sticky moments with the double sided tape, and a shortfall in the length of my ribbon (either I have very short arms or my maths was lacking!), the whole process was smooth and logical.

If you have no time, or prefer not to give DIY parcels, John Lewis offer a gift wrapping service. It costs £3 per item, which includes all bubble wrap, tissue or poly chips, wrapping paper and ribbon, regardless of size. Ask at customer services for details.

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SHOPPING

All things bright and beautiful From elegant classics to dazzling designs, Sue Dobson finds gems at Peterborough’s independent jewellery shops

Rodgers & Son

Charles Bright

Style

R

enowned for high quality and distinctive jewellery, there’s been a Charles Bright shop overlooking St John’s Square in Exchange Street since the 1920s. They specialise in traditional and classic designs, with a wide selection of fine diamond and gemstone rings, exquisite earrings and necklaces and unusual wedding bands in gold, silver, platinum and palladium. “White metal is very fashionable at the moment,” says director Roger Aron.

“We like to offer slightly different things and seldom replicate what we sell. Our customers appreciate having a piece of jewellery they won’t see anyone else wearing. It’s important to us that they find exactly what they are looking for and we can source items or stones that may not be available elsewhere.” It’s good to know that all the diamonds sold at Charles Bright are guaranteed ‘conflict free’.

A display of Murano glass necklaces, earrings and bracelets catches my eye. Handmade in Venice, they are modern and colourful. They have that unmistakeable stamp of quality that permeates the shop, which alongside the jewellery also stocks gifts for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries and christenings.

Style in the city The dazzling array of costume jewellery at Style in Westgate Arcade will gladden the heart of anyone in search of an affordable gift that’s fun to wear. “We love sparkly things”, says Amanda, the enthusiastic manager of this jewellery and accessories boutique. From contemporary to classic, simple to statement, their eclectic range seems to cater for every budget.

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Stockists of some of the best modern designer jewellery including Lovelinks and Petite by Aagaard from Denmark, Parure Paris, Milan trendsetter Giorgio Martello, London’s celebrity favourite Martine Wester (Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon are fans) and Dorit Winehouse (Amy’s aunt), Style has recently opened another shop in the Arcade called Theia. This features special occasion jewellery, wedding accessories and a big selection of men’s jewellery from designers such as Blog for Men and Soldier to Soldier.

“There’s always something new here,” Amanda continues. “The Lovelinks range is very popular and being the largest stockist in Cambridgeshire, we’re always one of the first to get the new designs.”

Bespoke designs Just inside the Long Causeway entrance to the Queensgate Shopping Centre, Rodgers & Son specialises in bespoke wedding and diamond rings. “We make everything to order here,” says director Mark Woodall. “Using an innovative computer design system with cutting edge 3D software, we sit down with the customer to devise the ring they want. We find people enjoy being so closely involved in the design process and creating something that is very personal to them. Most of our business comes through recommendations.”

The distinctive shopfront of J W D’Arcy in Westgate breathes history. It’s been a jewellery shop since 1855 but it was in 1923 that Mark D’Arcy’s grandfather came from Yorkshire to found what is Peterborough’s oldest continuously family-owned jewellery business.

Inside, glass-fronted, polished wood cabinets

display an array of new and pre-owned rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings.

Like his grandfather and father before him, Mark is a qualified jeweller and is happy to give guidance on the quality of the diamonds and coloured stones in the jewellery he sells and does valuations for insurance and probate.

“Our business is built on trust,” he says. “We’re real jewellers, not just sales people, and our customers like the fact that we haven’t changed anything here.”

He began selling pre-owned jewellery three years ago. “The price of gold has trebled since 2009 and many people are finding that new gold jewellery is out of reach. We clean and restore all our pre-owned stock and it is very good value.”

D’Arcy’s has a good reputation for jewellery repairs, which are all done locally, but it’s perhaps less well known that they offer a bespoke jewellery service. “You can discuss the design with the man who is actually going to make that special piece of jewellery for you.” It’s the epitome of personal service.

Contacts Charles Bright, St John’s Square, 10 Exchange Street, Peterborough PE1 1PW. Tel 01733 567830. www.charlesbright.co.uk Style, 14 Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Shopping Centre, Peterborough PE1 1PY. Tel 01733 893393. www.style-accessories.co.uk Rodgers & Son, 65a Queensgate Shopping Centre, Peterborough PE11NH. Tel: 01733 555229 J W D’Arcy, 7 Westgate, Peterborough PE1 1PX. Tel 01733 562044.

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J.W. D’Arcy Ltd The family Jewellers - est 1855

• For a truely personal service • Specialising in new and pre-owned jewellery sales • Watch sales and repairs • Scrap gold brought for cash • Valuations for insurance and probate • Bespoke jewellery made to order and repaired in our local workshop

7, Westgate Peterborough PE1 1PX 01733 562044

8 Queen Street, Peterborough - 01733 348917

Make Christmas shopping easy and choose a Designer Leathers gift voucher

Thank you for your support this year… Merry Christmas to all!

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Win £50 vouchere in our onlin Quick Quiz

www.designerleathers.co.uk 19

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FOOD & DR INK

Food News All the latest on local food and drink

Tea at Margaret’s Picture this: you are battling through the crowds of Christmas shoppers in Peterborough city centre, your arms are full of bags, your feet hurt, and you are desperate for a cup of tea and a few minutes of peace and quiet. Where do you head for? The answer has to be Margaret’s Tea Room. Tucked away in Wentworth Street, just by WH Smith, this independent business is “just like a village teashop in the centre of the city,” says Keith West, partner of proprieter Michael West.

Margaret’s takes the business of tea very seriously indeed. There are more than 30 loose leaf teas on offer, including four blends which are exclusive to the tea shop. “We’re one of the few places in Peterborough where you can buy loose teas,” explains Keith, who takes care of all the blending himself. Keith has a cellar full of wine at home, and an excellent palate which, he explains, translates well to tea. He has written the tea menu just like a wine list, offering tasting notes and special recommendations. Did you know, for example, that a black, aromatic tea called Rose Congu, is an excellent accompaniment to Victoria sponge cake and fruit scones?

Keith’s other recommendations include: Russian Caravan a traditional blend of fine teas found along the trading route from China to St Petersburg in the mid-17th Century.

Drunk black, this smoky tea works very well with a Margaret’s sausage sandwich.

Keenum Orchid A lighter, black tea, this has a fruity aroma and displays a hint of orchid fragrance and a bit of China tea sweetness. It is soothing and light, perfect for the afternoon, and can be drunk with milk, if preferred.

Pai Mu Tan This rare white tea us also known as White Peony. It isn’t actually white, it gets its name because it is made from the first budding of the tea plants in early spring. It has a delicate, lingering flavour and a fresh, mellow, grassy taste.

No tea shop is complete without homemade cakes, of course, and this is Michael’s speciality. His freshly baked scones, lighter-than-air sponges and Fluffy Cups (cupcakes) have regulars returning time and again. For Christmas, Michael will be introducing the Mince Pie

20

Fluffy Cup, filled with mincemeat, and with orange icing. He is also baking chocolate roulade log especially for the festive season. New to Margaret’s, too, is a range of homemade puddings, which are very popular. At £2.50 each, they represent good value, and can be just the pick-me-up you need during a hectic day.

Michael is planning to make the teashop festive and cosy, with a big tree outside and plenty of decorating ideas inside. “We have a very loyal customer base,” he says. “Once people find us, they return time and again. We’re very proud of that.”

Margaret’s Tea Room, 5 Wentworth St, Peterborough PE1 1DH Tel: 01733 346381

New year offer at The King’s Arms, Polebrook

Michelin award for Peterborough restaurant

Here is a Christmas present with a difference. Buy a friend a voucher for a meal at the Kings Arms Polebrook, from December 1st, and they can get a little bit more for their money in January. A £25 voucher would be worth £27.50 and a £50 voucher is worth £55 January only.

The King’s Arms, Polebrook Tel: 01832 272363 www.thekingsarmspolebrook.co.uk

“Beautifully decorated and formally run by a husband and wife team.

Ambitious, tasty, modern cooking.” That is the verdict of the 2013 Michelin Guide on Peterborough city centre restaurant Clarkes, which is now the proud owner of a Michelin Three Fork and Spoon award, making it the highest rated restaurant in Peterborough. Serving modern British food, pioneered by chef Lee Clarke, it strives to offer “creativity balanced with tradition” in each dish and service is friendly and natural. Tucked away near Beales Department Store, Clarkes is a brilliant addition to the city centre, and we have been hearing some excellent reports about the food. A full review will follow in the January edition of NVL, but in the meantime, we’d like to offer our congratulations to Lee and his team for a very fine achievement.

Open Tuesday to Sunday. To make a reservation, call 01733 892681. 17 Lincoln Rd, Peterborough PE1 2RA www.clarkespeterborough.co.uk

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Using the finest locally sourced ingredients, traditional baking methods and a craftsman’s attention to detail, the bakers at Hambleton Bakery have created a delicious range of handmade sweet and savoury products for you and your family and friends to enjoy over Christmas.

The Christmas range is available in our shops and stockists from 1st December while our traditional range of artisan breads, full of wholesome flavour with no preservatives or enhancers added, remains available throughout the season.

Deadline for Christmas Orders is Monday 17th December 2012.

Exton Bakery & Shop

Oakham Shop Gaol Street

Cottesmore Road, Exton,

Rutland

LE15 8AN

LE15 6AL

Oundle Shop 44 Jericho,

Stamford Shop

Market Place,

1 Ironmonger Street,

Oundle PE8 4AU

Lincolnshire , PE9 1PL

Enquiries 01572 812995 info@hambletonbakery.co.uk www.hambletonbakery.co.uk 21

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Same welcoming atmosphere & same home cooked menu, but at a more AFFORDABLE price

T HE K ING ’ S H EAD A PETHORPE PRICE DROP Sunday Roast now only £7.95!

Evening A La Carte • 2 course £11.95 • 3 course £14.95

A

new and exciting plant centre based in the Midlands, displaying the finest Olive Trees, Mediterranean Shrubs and Palm Trees for sale in the UK. Our 6-acre site with its Italian style plaza/ show area is unique in its concept, reflecting the style, experience and feel of a typical Mediterranean plant nursery.

New set menu

Not available Fri evening or weekend

2 courses £7.95 • 3 courses £9.95 •

The Kings Head, Apethorpe, Peterborough PE8 5DG 01780 470 627 enquiries@kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk.

We are passionate about our business and understand the need to provide our customers with a warm, personal and friendly service.

We open for lunch & dinner or just for a drink

Eat free on your birthday, just book a table for two or more

Also open on Sundays 12 noon to 8pm

Tel: 01832 275660 email: info@olivegrovenurseries.co.uk

Open: Tuesday – Saturday 10am until 5pm Sunday 11am until 4pm Also open until 8pm every Thursday in December

Olive Grove Nurseries, Oundle Road, Polebrook, Northants, PE8 5LQ

www.olivegrovenurseries.co.uk

NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS The Taste of Africa and the Caribbean

2 Burghley Road, Peterborough, Cambs, PE1 2QB. Tel 01733 873003

www.emberestaurant.co.uk

T h E F i n EST E n g l i S h C u i S i n E AT

We have recently created and opened a Mediterranean themed coffee bar and Italian ice cream parlour alongside our fine food delicatessen which stocks a wide range of gourmet foods and gift items.

The

Cherry house Restaurant

“ The difference is in the detail...”

Reservations Essential

• For Superb Food & Excellent Service in Delightful Surroundings • We offer fortnightly changed, fixed price menu • For all occasions inc birthday & anniversary celebrations, intimate weddings, wakes...

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

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FOOD & DR INK

Have a merry (stress free) Christmas

I

Don’t fancy slaving over a hot stove or stuffing that turkey? Many local families plan to eat out on Christmas Day, as Dave Phillips reports…

t’s called the Festive Season but for many people Christmas is far from joyous – in fact it’s the most stressful time of the year.

New research shows that December is the most stressful month, with one in five couples considering splitting up in the two weeks leading up to Christmas. A further one in 20 doubt whether their relationship will survive into the New Year, according to the survey carried out by family law specialists Seddons.

And as any harassed cook will tell you, the most stressful time of all is cooking Christmas lunch. A typical family meal on Christmas Day can mean catering on a near-industrial scale for a dozen or more people, from three generations. Not everybody wants traditional roast turkey any more. A typical family these days is likely to include one or more vegetarians, someone with a food allergy, and adults who simply don’t like turkey.

Christmas is supposed to be a time of celebration and sharing quality time with family and friends, but all too often the cook spends hours alone, slaving over a hot stove, while everybody else is having fun. No wonder more and more people eat out on Christmas Day. “There’s a lot of stress involved in preparing a Christmas lunch for a large family. It can be the cause of a lot of rows and spoil the day for everyone,” says Rebecca Holder of the Talbot Hotel, Oundle. “It’s good to go out and let someone else take the stress. Also, there are

plenty of options so that everybody can have what they want. Small children, teenagers and adults often like different things. Not everybody enjoys roast turkey and all the trimmings. This year we’ve got a choice of four starters, three main courses and three desserts – including chef’s own Christmas pudding, of course!

There’s something for everyone.”

Justin Capp, landlord at the King’s Arms, Polebrook, reckons more people are eating out on Christmas Day every year. He says: “It’s really a glorified family Sunday lunch. We have served Christmas Day lunch for the last six years and it gets more popular every year.”

Jenny Martin at the Falcon, Fotheringhay, agrees: “We normally serve 60 to 70 people and everybody has lots of fun. It’s easy and so cosy here with the Christmas tree and all the decorations – just like a home from home.”

The King’s Head at Wadenhoe has been serving Christmas Day lunch since 2005 and, according to partner David Porter, it has become so popular that it soon becomes fully booked. “To avoid disappointment, I’d advise families to place their orders as soon as possible,” he says.

At the Red Lion, Warmington, Christmas Day lunch has proved so popular that they were fully booked in early October, but they have opened a waiting list in case anyone cancels.

Ian Simmons, landlord of the White Swan, at Woodnewton, admits that he used to look

forward to a quiet Christmas Day, but is opening for lunch this year.

“We’re doing it by popular demand,” he says.

“For the last two years our customers have nagged us to do Christmas lunch and this year we have given in!”

With many of us trying to cut costs, it seems perverse that more of us are choosing to eat out on Christmas Day – after all, it’s not cheap.

But with mouth-watering menus to choose from and no members of the family slaving over a hot stove, many of us would say it’s a price worth paying.

OPEN FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCH Talbot Hotel Eatery & Coffee House, Oundle PE8 4EA. £70 (under-12s £30 ). Tel: 01832 273621.

White Swan, Woodnewton PE8 5EB. £49.50 (under-12s £25). Tel: 01780 470944.

King’s Arms, Polebrook PE8 5LW. £40 (children £25). Tel: 01832 272363.

The Falcon, Fotheringhay PE8 5HZ. £75. Tel: 01832 226254.

Oundle Mill, PE8 5PB. £70. Tel: 01832 272621.

Shuckburgh Arms, Stoke Doyle PE8 5TG. £55.

Tel: 01832 272339.

King’s Head, Wadenhoe PE8 5ST. Tel: 01832 720024.

Please note that many venues require a deposit in advance. Pre-booking is essential.

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FASHION

Sparkle and shine

Vicky wears Damsel in a Dress full length evening dress £189 from John Lewis, Butler & Wilson earrings £73, from Jules.

Harriet wears Laurence Decade shoe-boots, £250, from Arch Label Agency, black and gold Hoss dress from Jacks, £299

A touch of glitter, a handful of sequins, some lace and sparkle, what more does a girl need? Sally Stillingfleet finds the perfect embellishments for the LBD (Little Black Dress) this Christmas Photos: Elli Dean NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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Vicky wears Jaeger lace shirt £180 and fitted three quarter length trousers

by Ted Baker £109 both from John Lewis.

Red Gabor shoes £84.99 from Marcia May Shoes.

FASHION Vicky wears Mint Velvet fitted dress with net detail £129 from John Lewis, worn with Butler and Wilson earrings, £62, from Jules by the Riverside, Stamford.

Nancy wears Unisa burgundy shoes, £140, from Attic, Stamford, and Derby dress, £125, from Jacks Harriet (left) wears Esprit Collection dress from Attic, £65, with black ankle boots from Lisa Kay, £175 at Vanilla, Oakham.

Vicky wears earrings by Missoma, £245, from Paradise Found, Coast blue peplum top £75 and Whistles blue sequinned skirt £125 both from John Lewis, Peterborough. Christian Louboutin black shoes with ankle strap £150 from Arch Label Agency Nancy (left) wears black lace panel dress from Baubles and Bangles £47, with Unisa shoes, £140, from Attic,Stamford.

Nancy wears embellished coral shirt by Stills, £247, and gold skirt, £168, both from Vanilla, Oakham. Gabor shoe-boots £130 from Marcia May shoes.

STOCKISTS John Lewis – Queensgate Centre, Peterborough. Tel. 01733 344644 Jacks – 20 Market Place, Oundle.

Tel. 01832 270033 Paradise Found – 34 St. Mary’s St. Stamford.

Tel. 01780 764439 Vanilla – 23B Mill Street, Oakham.

Tel. 01572 757577 Jules by the Riverside – Wharf Road, Stamford. Tel. 01780 755948 Attic – 33 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford.

Tel.01780 766667 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St. Mary’s St. Stamford.

Tel. 01780 766608 Arch Label Agency – 10a Maiden Lane, Stamford. Tel. 01780 764746 Sarah Buxton from Aromatica has used Lily Lolo’s mineral make-up and T. Le Clerc’s eponymous French make-up range to create smokey eyes with metallic shimmer on our models, Vicky, Harriet and Nancy.

Aromatica – 8 High Street, St. Martin’s, Stamford. Tel. 01780 753443 • Thanks to Thierry Daugeron and his team for allowing us to use the new Chandelier Room upstairs at The Riverside Café, Stamford, a great venue for parties and available to hire. www.theirrydaugeron.co.uk Tel. 01780 3800804

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During December and January Elysia Health and Beauty are offering amazing discounts on courses booked. Courses must be booked and paid for in advance. Please call for details.

• Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle 01832 226328 or 07879 620196. www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

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ACT IVIT IE S

Best reads of 2012 Read any good books this year?

Sue Dobson asked some local people for their favourites and why they enjoyed them Canon Richard Ormston, Vicar and Rural Dean of Oundle Do Nothing To Change Your Life: Discovering what happens when you stop, by Stephen Cottrell (Church House Publishing, £7.99) From page one, where Stephen Cottrell extols the joys of ‘delicious wastefulness of time,’ this book is a welcome surprise. It reminds us that to be creative we need space – and without space we not only shortchange ourselves but everyone around us. Cottrell observes that ‘I am troubled for myself and our world when every waking hour is filled with activity that sweeps dreams away and has no room for rest and play.’

The pocket-sized book is only 89 pages and won’t take long to read, but it is full of gentle wisdom. The author speaks from experience: as Bishop of Chelmsford he has an extremely full diary. He is realistic enough to know that slowing down is not easy but it might just change (and save) your life.

Helen Shair, Festival Manager, Oundle Festival of Literature The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, by Rachel Joyce (Doubleday, £12.99) Following the spontaneous and unexpected journey of an unusual hero, this is a beautifully written first novel that made the long list for the Man Booker Prize. Harold is unprepared but grows and develops in many ways as he travels and we gradually learn more and more about his family background and a dark secret that lurks in the undergrowth. I found myself really believing in the characters and willing Harold to succeed and complete his quest. Moving, charming and very funny at times, it’s a wonderful story, very uplifting and thought provoking.

Jason Potter, The Courthouse Bookshop, Oundle The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie (Hachette Partworks, from £1.99) This year I have been reading nothing but Agatha Christie, thanks to a fortnightly partwork series, the Agatha Christie Book Collection. The books are good quality hardbacks, issued with facsimile copies of the original dust jackets, and each one comes with a magazine that contains plenty of clues and sets the scene.

My favourite is The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, featuring Hercule Poirot. Considered by many to be her masterpiece, it was a controversial novel in its time and has one of the most innovative twist endings ever conceived.

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Jo Chamberlain, Elton Village Stores and Post Office.

Housewife Down and four more in the series by Alison Penton Harper (Pan, £6.99) I’d heard that this Northamptonshire writer had won a Richard & Judy Show competition and that her first novel, Housewife Down, had become a bestseller. I saw it in the library, read it and loved it. After that I was back at the library, devouring the next four in the series. I just had to find out what happens in the life of Helen, the housewife heroine. They’re funny, have sharp dialogue, great characters and are such addictive reading that I bought them to keep and read again.

Paula Prince, Fringe team, Oundle International Festival The Thoughts and Happenings of Wilfred Price, Purveyor of Superior Funerals, by Wendy Jones (Corsair, £7.99) A beautifully gentle read set in a Welsh village in the 1920’s, The Thoughts and Happenings of Wilfred Price, Purveyor of Superior Funerals is the intriguing title for Wendy Jones’ debut novel. Poor Wilfred gets into a terrible muddle all due to a glorious yellow dress and the overwhelming hormones of a young man. It is satisfying to see how it is all sorted out. I think Wendy Jones is definitely an author to watch.

Chris Gill, Oundle Cinema Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman (Bloomsbury, £7.99) I liked this because the author achieves a most unusual and effective voice for his main character and manages to convey laughter and tragedy in a story that just hurtles along, set in a community that, while very different from Oundle, is brilliantly described in a totally plausible way. It was short-listed for the Man Booker prize in 2011.

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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THE OUNDLE BOOKSHOP Based at Market Place, housed in one of Oundle’s historic Georgian buildings, we stock thousands of titles with a further 180,000 available for next-day ordering - order today & read tomorrow!

We keep an in-depth selection in the following categories:• Biographies • Food & Drink • Gardening • Sport • Travel Guides • Fiction • Humour • History • Poetry • General Knowledge • Childrens’ Avid Reader? Ask for one of our Regular Reader Discount Cards. Spend £10.00 & get a stamp collect 10 stamps & we give you a £5.00 voucher.

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Yasmin Santoriello Tel 07706433526 e.mail: ydshair@gmail.com 



13 Market Place, Oundle. T: 01832 273523 E: oundlebookshop@colemangroup.co.uk

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             

             

 



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• NVL Dec ADS.indd 29

21/11/12 16:00:40

CHRISTMAS GIFT PACKAGES Gift Vouchers in a Gift Box PARTY PACKAGE ½ Set of Eyelash Extensions,GEL File & Paint & Eyebrow Tidy £63.50 (normally £73.50) PURE INDULGENCE Light Life Facial, Make Up Lesson & GEL Manicure & Pedicure

£100 (normally £110)

CKAGE PAMPER PA t Stone o Full Body H g a Mass e, age, Scalp Mass ial c Fa & Oro 0 5 £1 65) (normally £1 CACI ANTI-AGEING PACKAGE 10 x CACI 60Min Facials £475 (normally £650)

Payments can be taken over the phone for Gift vouchers and posted.

Opening Times - Mon – Thur 9.30-7.30, Fri 9.30-5.00

Sat 8.00-5.00

The Old Stables, Church Farm, Glapthorn, Nr Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5BE

T: 01832 272310 M: 07807 879459 - Email: pure@farming.co.uk

GET READY FOR THE PARTY SEASON LADIES! AMAZING CHRISTMAS PAMPER PACKAGE: HD Brow, Lash Perfect Lashes, Sunjunkie Spray Tan and OPI Gelcolor (Hands), ALL FOR AN AMAZING £80.00 XMAS SPECIAL PRICE. (Normally £120) Book now to avoid disappointment.

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT The Ultimate Top To Toe: Relaxing full body massage followed by a luxury facial.

Ultimate bliss for your loved one, for an amazing £55.00

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Spend £50 or more on Dermalogica products and receive a complimentar y Microzone Facial.

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Find us on facebook The Beauty Room x Dermalogica | Lash Perfect | HD Brows | Bare Minerals OPI & OPI Gel Colour Moroccan Oil | Philip Kingsley | TIGI

14 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EF - Tel: 01832 273989

www.thebeautyroomx.co.uk

• Chemical Peels

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21/11/12 12:17:19

HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

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

HAIR STYLING AT HOME

Yasmin Santoriello has worked in local salons over the last ten years and is now working as a freelance stylist, ready to bring a salon finish to the comfort of your home. She has experience in working with the latest trends, offering styling tips as well as up to date information on the best products to suit your individual hair type and style and experience of advanced colouring techniques, Brazilian Keratin blow-drys and Balmaine hair extensions.

• Contact Yasmin on 07706 433526 or e-mail:- ydshair@gmail.com

PICK UP A GIFT AT PURE

Pure Health and Beauty, Glapthorn, have a tempting range of Christmas gifts including some gorgeous seasonal Eve Taylor scented candles at just £15, RVB Make up and skin care gift sets. Gift vouchers can also be purchased in the salon or bought over the phone. Vouchers and gift sets are presented beautifully wrapped and tied with organza ribbon. Gift sets start from £8 and can be pick and mixed. The salon is also offering its popular treatment packages.

• For more details contact Pure Health and Beauty, Church Farm, Main Street, Glapthorn, Peterborough PE8 5BE Tel: 01832 272310 or 07807 879459, e-mail: pure@farmng.co.uk

STOP PRESS

Wansford Salon SW31 has joined forces with Skin-t Beauty to offer a host of hair and beauty treatments. Proprietor Sarah Wilde explains: “April Humphrey is joining the salon specialising in advanced beauty and skin treatments such as IPL, Microdermabrasion and anti-ageing facials.

She joins us having completed a degree in beauty in London so we are looking forward to offering our clients a full package of Hair and Beauty treatments.” Sandra Stanford also joins the salon as a hair dresser and specialises in working with long hair.

• For more information contact SW31, 12 London Road, Wansford, Peterborough PE8 6JB Tel: 01780 782824 or 01780 678111

MICRODERMABRASION Smoother, younger looking skin something many of us would like to have. The Derma Genesis Microdermabrasion is a skin rejuvenation procedure which uses fine medical grade crystals to remove the dead, outmost layer of skin by exfoliation to reveal new skin cells that are soft, smooth and may be more receptive to nutrients.

Microdermabrasion is commonly used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, sun damaged skin, acne, blackheads and whiteheads, superficial age spots, hyperpigmentation, oily skin and dry and patchy skin. I had a session at the Cosmetic Clinic in Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough with therapist Lisa . The treatment takes about 30 minutes. Firstly, Lisa explained what to expect: “there is no pain or discomfort or any use of hazardous chemicals and no recovery time.” She said that after the treatment it is important to use a high factor sunscreen and to keep my skin well moisturised.

The treatment was surprisingly relaxing and Lisa used a hand piece (which looked a little like a marker pen) that passed across my whole face and neck area. Backs, shoulders The Cosmetic Clinic and other areas can also be treated. This is a great treatment is offering three for the winter months when skin can look and feel tired. It Microdermabrasion made my skin look instantly refreshed, although it is advisable treatments for the price of to have a course of treatments for long lasting results. two. The usual treatment • For more information call The Cosmetic Clinic, 2265 price is £50.

Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough PE1 3PB Tel: 01733 310090 www.ukcosmeticclin

OFFER:

EYE PROTECTION FOR SPORTSMEN AND WOMEN Henry Smith and Hamylton Opticians are proud to introduce Oakley True Digital ™ at their Cumbergate Peterborough practice.

Athletes put alarming demands on eyewear. In fact, eyewear is an extension of their abilities and a defining factor of their capabilities.

They need acute and accurate vision, not just straight ahead, but in all directions. Sports like cycling and running are highly dependent on peripheral vision to sense passing objects and opponents.

Now, athletes and sports enthusiasts who require prescription optics can benefit from a new solution, Oakley True Digital™. This new and innovative digital technology delivers the best possible overall vision, not just straight ahead, but over the entire high-wrap lens surface.

Athletes also need protection from impact and ultraviolet light. Oakley proprietary sport tints block 100% of harmful ultraviolet radiation while boosting colour contrast and depth perception to enhance performance in each sport environment. Iridium coatings serve to fine tune the transmission of light even further and the reflected glare from asphalt is virtually eliminated using polarized filters. Oakley True Digital™ lenses offer impact protection against heavy objects at low speeds and lighter objects at high speeds.

Henry Smith and Hamylton opticians are authorised Oakley dealers and provide Oakley prescription eyewear. Pop in to see Angela at the Cumbergate Peterborough practice and she will happily discuss the best choice of bespoke prescription eyewear that Oakley can offer you and your sporting needs.

• Henry Smith & Hamylton (Opticians) Ltd., 1 Cumbergate, Peterborough PE1 1YR Tel: 01733 310 661 www.smithandhamylton.com

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Coming soon

to Oundle!

opens on Mon 17 Dec bookings now being taken • Funky retro diner – will appeal to everyone with style and a sense of fun!!

• Stunning lighting and design ideas, with black, white & red theme • The freshest, local, top quality burgers • Other offerings include lamb, fish & vegetarian • Beer, wine, soft drinks and of course milk shakes

From the creators of Beans Coffee Stop

Hours of opening: Monday-Thursday 5pm - 11pm, Friday & Saturday 11am - 11pm, Sunday 11am - 10pm

‘62 love me do, 12 West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 274383 for bookings 32

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iscover a feast of festive treats.

Our selection of delicious hampers come filled with festive favourites and gourmet goodies. And, with prices starting from just £15, they’re sure to make everyone’s Christmas magical. Plus, our personal wrapping service has all the festive bows and ribbons you’ll need to make sure your hamper looks as good as it tastes.

Or, why not make it more personal by creating your own hamper? Simply select a wicker basket, or presentation box of your choice in-store, and fill it with all the special things you know your friends or family will love.

Truly magical.

Garden Centre | Farm Foodhall | Restaurant | Santa’s Grotto | Hamper Shop | Home Delivery Gift Wrapping | Free Parking Dobbies Garden World | Serpentine Green | Cygnet Park | Hampton | Peterborough | PE7 8NY | Tel: 01733 898 640 For full details visit dobbies.com

• NVL Dec ADS.indd 33 DOB26091 Stamford Living_Nene Valley PRESS 297x210.indd 1

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21/11/12 12:17:50 02/11/2012 15:32

Act ivit ie s

Top Brass Have you heard of the Yarwell and Nassington Britannia Brass Band? Nor had Dave Phillips until he went along to Nassington Church to watch them play…

I

f I was to tell you that there’s a local organisation where dozens of people from all generations come weekly to share their passion for a pastime you probably thought died out a century ago, you wouldn’t believe me. But it’s true. Every week, upwards of 30 people aged from eight to 77 cram into Yarwell village hall – and make a lot of noise. They can’t help it, and nobody seems to mind, because they’re the Yarwell and Nassington Britannia Brass Band.

At this stage you may admit that you’ve never heard of them.

Me too, I’m ashamed to say, until I turned up at their recent Last Night of the Proms concert at Nassington Church where I was in turn entranced and entertained by their skill, enthusiasm and showmanship.

But then, what would you expect from an organisation that dates back about two centuries?

“The roots of the band go back to the early 19th century and we can claim to be one of the oldest bands in the country,” says band member, Angus Welch.

The exact origins of the band, including the founder members, are

34

lost in the mists of time. There’s no written contemporary record, but that’s hardly surprising since few village folk in the early 1800s would have been able to read and write. But what is known is that the band was playing at Elton Station to mark the homecoming of local soldiers returning from the Crimea War (1853-56). Elton Station, on the Nene Valley line between Peterborough and Northampton, opened in 1847 (and closed in 1953).

Highs and lows Since then the band has enjoyed mixed fortunes. At the height of its popularity, about a century ago, it had its own band room – a wooden hut in Station Road, Nassington, opposite the Black Horse pub. It was around that time that the popularity of brass bands reached their peak, particular in industrial areas where factory and colliery owners gave financial support to the bands in the belief that playing in a brass band would prevent the workers from getting involved in union activities.

At this time it was estimated that there were over 20,000 players in England, with a bandstand in the park of most larger towns. Several

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local villages also had bands, now longforgotten. Brass bands went into decline during the Second World War, and the Yarwell and Nassington band was no different, folding in the 1950s through lack of support. But that wasn’t the end of the matter, for in the 1970s several former members of the band got together to play carols around the villages for Christmas. It was a great success and rapidly grew into a full band, practising first in Nassington School and then in the village’s old Methodist Chapel.

Says Angus: “Our band has fallen by the wayside over the years, but has always managed to resurface. We’re a hardy lot! The present-day band has around 30 members and also has a junior band, bringing on young players. Three local families have had several generations of players in the band, including the Mould family – Simon owns the butcher’s shop in Nassington – followed by the Newtons and the Sardesons.”

“Today, the band comprises a large group of like-minded brass players of all ages, who meet weekly to make great music and have fun doing it! We perform in a range of settings, from churches to village fetes, and are proud to represent the two villages in our name in the local area.”

“Brass bands can play all kinds of music – classical, pop, jazz, etc, as well as a wide repertoire specially written for brass bands. You don’t need many players to make a good sound. We see the band as being part of the social fabric of the community. The membership is eclectic, drawing from young and old, female and male, of all classes and backgrounds.”

“The common aim is to make music together, both for our own interest and for the entertainment of others. One of the great strengths of the band is that everyone has a part to play, figuratively as well as literally, so that the youngest member of the band is just as valuable as the most experienced.”

“We recently set up a junior band, for anyone who is currently learning to play a brass instrument, led by the senior band’s Musical Director, Richard Atkins. If you like music, can read music, play a brass instrument or want to learn to play a brass instrument, come along to one of our practice evenings. You will be made very welcome – so come and have a blow!”

You can check out the Yarwell and Nassington Britannia Brass Band on their website: https://sites.google.com/site/theynbb or “Like” the band on

Facebook – just type YarwellNassington into your Facebook search.

Better still, go along and watch them play! The band have their Christmas Concert in Nassington Church on Sunday December 9 at 3pm, with refreshments (including mince pies) available during the interval. I promise that, like me, you’ll be amazed.

NENE VALLEY LIVING december 2012

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ACT IVIT IE S

A capital day out Planning a family trip to London this Christmas? Ronnie Haydon leads the way

L

ove it or hate it, you must have a butcher’s at the Marmitethemed lights on Oxford Street. They were switched on by the popster who’s a bit Marmite himself - Robbie Williams. Here in the West End it’s all fairy lights and bling as the store tills ring.

Kerching! You may not be able to walk past the five frenetic floors of Hamleys, the world-famous toyshop. Drag the kids away with the promise of gingerbread, sugarplums, candy canes and the Globe of Death. All are available for their delectation this season.

In Hyde Park, as part of Winter Wonderland, Zippo’s Christmas Circus is for the little’uns in the afternoons; the eye-popping Cirque Berserk in the evenings is aimed at older children and adults. That’s where the Globe comes in. See A Bit Parky (box) for details.

Our freakish weather usually means that sparkling frost and snow are off the meteorological menu, but a cool yule is guaranteed at the capital’s outdoor skating rinks. The original and best (at least cheapest and least crowded) is still Broadgate Ice, but more picturesque settings include Somerset House, the Tower of London, Natural History Museum and Hampton Court, as well as EyeSkate, watched over by the festively illuminated, all-seeing EDF Energy London Eye.

Down to the river The days when the Thames was ‘frozen o’er’ and frost fairs took place on its frigid surface are long gone, but riverside frolics live on, this year in the substantial shape of the Southbank Centre’s Christmas Market, with its Gluhwein and Lebkuchen. Children can make Christmas cards and spend their pocket money on trinkets for the Christmas tree. Carolling, music and a Chocolate Festival are all thrown in.

Walking east, the South Bank becomes Bankside, where more festive cheer of the calorific kind is celebrated at Borough Market. The market decks its stalls with boughs of holly, vats of mulled cider, Portuguese sugarplums, spicy tree decorations, charismatic cooks demonstrating, community choirs a-warbling and great wheels of cheese. Such is the

popularity of this last foodstuff that the market has scheduled an Evening of Cheese. Most children don’t have a grown up’s fascination for fromage, but the buzzy market, and all those edible freebies, make it fun for Christmas shopping. A timely reminder of what Christmas means, pop into candlit Southwark Cathedral, next door. You might hear the choir rehearsing their Christmas gigs.

See a show Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without taking in a show, and London’s sackful of theatricals goes way beyond panto. The whimsical Slava’s Snowshow has become a seasonal fixture. Back at the Royal Festival Hall for 2012, it always generates a veritable blizzard of goodwill. Rather more mystical are the chimes ringing out as part of the RFH’s annual celebration of Javanese Gamelan. A short walk away, the Cottseloe studio space at the National has an inventive version of Hansel & Gretel by Katie Mitchell and Lucy Kirkwood for seven to ten year olds. Families can also zip over to the Barbican for a romp around the arts centre to prevent elves and fairies creating mayhem in 59 Minutes to Save Christmas.

There’s a modicum more gravitas in a double bill of The Snowman and Peter and the Wolf, accompanied by the Orchestra of the Welsh National Opera and narrated by Tamsin Greig.

An interactive experience awaits in Islington, and the London Arts House. In their Enchanted Christmas House, children can chat up elves in Santa’s workshop, meet Mrs Claus and play in the Genie’s Cave. Not far away, the Little Angel Theatre creates marionette magic all year round, but feels especially atmospheric at Christmas. Its seasonal shows are Pinocchio and the barking Dogs Don’t Do Ballet for tinies aged two to six. The carved puppets of the Little Angel hold a nostalgic charm for audiences wrapped in the velvety darkness of the tiny auditorium. Of such pleasures are Christmas memories made. For more, see The Spirit of Christmas Past.

Continued on page 38  NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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ACT IVIT IE S

VENUES Check online and book ahead for specific dates/prices where possible.

A bit parky

Ice and snow are forecast in Hyde Park when it morphs, once more, into Winter Wonderland. It’s free to to browse the gluhwein-scented Bavarian Village, Christmas markets and Santa Land, but the big attractions charge admission.

The Magical Ice Kingdom promises 200 tons of assorted frosting fashioned into sculptures, icicles and scenic walkways, as well as an ice rink. In the afternoons Zippo’s Christmas Circus entertains the little ones with tumbling elves and fumbling clowns.

When darkness falls a more gothic ringmaster emerges to present the Cirque Berserk, with knife-throwing and motorcycle stunt riding in the Globe of Death.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Hyde Park SW1/hydeparkwinterwonderland.com. 23 Nov 2012 - 6 Jan 2013. Free, with separate charges for Circuses, Ice Kingdom, Ice Rink, Observation Wheel.

The spirit of Christmas past What was Christmas like before Argos and widescreen TV? The answer’s behind the portals of two venerable Eastenders. The V&A Museum of Childhood is running a number of seasonal events based around yuletide a century ago. Children can make baubles, crackers, retro decs and cards.

During the post-Christmas dog days (29/30 Dec) you can pay £3 for Mirror Mirror’s magic lantern show and storytelling. The Geffrye Museum has a series of rooms depicting middle-class life over the past 400 years authentically decked according to their period. Discover the story behind mistletoe, stockings and tree lighting. Seasonal events include a Dickensian musical and workshop on 6 December.

Geffrye Museum Kingsland Road, E2 8EA (7739 9893/ geffrye-museum.org.uk).

Until 6 Jan 2013.

V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA (020 8983 5200/vam.ac.uk.

Until 6 Jan 2013

38

Barbican Centre Silk St, EC2Y 8DS (020 7638 8891/barbican. org.uk). 59 Minutes to save Christmas 15 Dec 2012-6 Jan 2013. The Snowman/Peter and the Wolf 22 – 23 Dec. Borough Market 8 Southwark Street SE1 1TL (020 7407 1002/ broughmarket.org.uk. Christmas market 12-31 Dec. An Evening of Cheese 12 Dec. Broadgate Ice Broadgate Circle, EC2M 2QS (0207 505 4120/ broadgate.co.uk).

Skating until 24 Feb 2013.

EDF London EyeSkate EDF Energy London Eye, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB (0871 781 3000/londoneye.com). Until 6 Jan 2013.

Hamleys 188-196 Regent Street, W1B 5BT 0871 704 1977/ hamleys.com) Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU (020 8241 9818/ hamptoncourticerink.com). Until 13 Jan 2013 Little Angel Theatre Dagmar Passage, off Cross Street, N1 2DN (0207 2261787/littleangeltheatre.com).

Pinocchio until 27 Jan 2013. Dogs Don’t Do Ballet 5 Dec 2012-27 Jan 2013 London Art House 2-18 Britannia Row, Islington, London, N1 8PA (020 3227 3200/enchanted house.net).

Enchanted Christmas House 1-24 Dec 2012 (check online for dates) National Theatre Cottesloe South Bank SE1 9PX (020 7452 3000/ nationaltheatre.org.uk). Hansel & Gretel 7 Dec 2012-26 Jan 2013 Natural History Museum Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD (020 7942 2000/ nhm.ac.uk). Skating until 6 Jan 2013.

Royal Festival Hall Southbank Centre Southbank Centre Square Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX (0207 960 4200/ southbankcentre.co.uk). Gamelan 9 Dec, 1pm; Slava’s Snowshow 17 Dec 2012 - Monday 7 Jan 2013 Southbank Centre Contact details above. Winter festival until 7 Jan 2013. Chocolate Festival 7-9 Dec 2012.

Southwark Cathedral London Bridge, SE1 9DA (0207 637 6700/ cathedral.southwark.anglican.org). Christingle service 5 Dec; Carol concerts 15, 21 and 23 Dec .

Tower of London EC3N 4AB (0844 482 7777/hrp.org.uk). Skating 17 Dec 2012-6 Jan 2013

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

37 38 KIDS.indd 3

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A c t ivit ie s

A word in your ear Do you know your skewbolish from your whim-wham, or your hunchy from your charmings? Test your knowledge of local dialect with this fun quiz for Christmas, compiled especially for Nene Valley Living by former QI researcher and author Adam Jacot de Boinod*

Can you guess the correct definition from the following three options for …

1) wiffle-waffle (Northamptonshire dialect) • a) careless, reckless, happy-go-lucky • b) to whet one’s scythes together • c) more on one side than on the other, ill-balanced, shaky 2) hunchy (Cambridgeshire dialect ) • a) a scarecrow made of old garments • b) chilly • c) eminently embraceable 3) skewboglish (Lincolnshire dialect) • a) unusual, bizarre, interesting • b) sullenly angry; depressed in spirits • c) of a horse: apt to shy

6) copus (Cambridge University 18th Century) • a) a drink of wine or beer imposed as a fine in hall • b) a blow on the back of their neck with the edge of the open palm • c) the appearance in public without a cap or gown 7) charmings (Lincolnshire dialect) • a) freckles • b) paper or rag chewed into small pieces by mice • c) knick-knacks, odds and ends 8) poa poa (Northamptonshire dialect) • a) a call to horses to go to the left • b) to cry as a quail • c) the sound of the nightingale

4) winnick (Lincolnshire dialect) • a) to giggle and laugh alternatively • b) to blow as wind does round a corner or through a hole • c) ) the swamp surface of a wet ploughed field

9) izels (Lincolnshire dialect) • a) particles of soot floating about in a room, indicating that the chimney needs to be swept • b) wax drips from a candle • c) the frayed and unravelled ends of a rope

5) whim-wham (Northamptonshire dialect) • a) a motion between walking and trotting • b) vigorously; with might and main • c) a trifling matter; a passing fad

10) harkle (Northamptonshire dialect) • a) to make an incision in one hind-leg of a hare or rabbit • b) a pathway up to a steep hill • c) to walk aimlessly up and down with short steps

*Adam was a researcher on the first series of the BBC programme QI and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and also the iphone App quiz game Tingo on interesting words.

Illustrations: Sam Purcell

ANSWERS: 1b), 2b), 3c), 4a), 5c), 6a), 7b), 8c), 9a), 10a) NENE VALLEY LIVING december 2012

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L OCA L WALK

Medbourne and Hallaton Take a Christmas holiday stroll through two stunning villages and fabulous countryside with long views WALK DATA: Distance Typical time OS map Start & finish Terrain Stiles Dog friendly

8 miles 3 hours Explorer 223 &224 or Landranger 141 (always walk with a map) Medbourne Hilly, but generally very well marked Three or so Except for the stiles, 2 of which can be circumnavigated 5 miles NW of Corby

How to get there Refreshments • Nevill Arms, Medbourne www.thenevillarms.net Tel: 01858 565288 Excellent food and a delightful café.

• If you fancy a coffee stop half way round, then try the Bewicke Arms at Hallaton, which has a café open all day www.thebewickearms.co.uk Tel: 01858 555217.

Medbourne - The name ‘Medbourne’ is Anglo Saxon - meadow stream, the name unchanged since the Domesday Book. The stream and two of its tributaries form part of the parish boundaries to the north of the village. Because of the dangers of flooding the course of the brook was canalised into straight drains, which you can still see today.

Medbourne Church

Hallaton - A beautiful village dating from the 14th century. The Hallaton Museum has recently been restored and merits a visit. Check opening times www.leicestershirevillages.com/hallaton. The famous Hallaton Bottle Kicking Bottle Kicking and Hare Pie Scrambling takes place on a hill to the south of the village on Easter Monday each year.

DIRECTIONS

1

Park in the centre of Medbourne village, next to the church; and walk up Rectory Lane, directly opposite the church. After a few hundred yards, cross a small road and proceed uphill through a field, taking the left fork when offered, towards a house and a stile Cross the stile and follow the path through what appears to be a private garden, over another stile, across a stile and then through a field, until you reach the far left corner of the field, where there is a small stone mount onto the road Follow the road past a gatehouse, along The Avenue and then turn left at the T-junction. Take the bridleway taking off diagonally to your left (NW) just at the end of the kitchen garden wall This path runs in a straight and clear line downhill, crossing the B664 and then up the other side; the path dips again, and when you reach a metalled track turn right Shortly afterwards there is a public bridleways sign to the left (due N), which you should take; and when it reaches the road turn left (W) and follow this road until you reach the main road Cross straight over, past the disused railway line, and then veer right up towards Hallaton. Cross a stream and you will soon be on the village street. Turn left, walking past the Bewicke Arms and tea room on your left Take care not to miss the footpath down a passageway to the left just past the village green. This heads down a grassy passage between two walls to a delightful stream. Cross, walk up the other side and head straight across a long field with several trees in it On reaching a gate and a metalled track, you turn left down the metalled track, not over the stile in front of you. This delightful track continues on down to the road Turn left at the road and then soon right, along another very pleasant metalled track, which takes you past Slawston Hill directly on your right. On reaching the Cranoe to Medbourne Road, cross straight over, again crossing a disused railway, and about half a mile down this road, take a left (E) heading straight back towards Medbourne.

Follow this track until it reaches the road; take care on this road as you head back into the village, you will soon find a pavement on your right..

2

3 4 5 6

Hallaton 7

Hallaton

Blaston

8 6

7

5 9

4

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Medbourne 10

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NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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D IA RY DAT E S

DECEMBER 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 31

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 WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY

Monday 31 December New Years Eve Party See in the New Year with style and support Phoenix School, Mayor’s charities and the Rudolph Fund.

Tickets £25 including hot buffet. Park Inn, Wentworth Street, Peterborough, PE1 1DH. Contact Liza Schwarz on 07760498750. www.sunset entertainments co.uk.

What’s On

Yasmin Bradley picks festive highlights for December Until Monday 24 December Christmas Collections at Art in the Heart Don’t miss the individually created gifts in this wonderful new gallery/ shop – especially Jeni Cairns’ beautiful Winter Garden window display.

Free. 47 Bridge Street, Peterborough, PE1 1HA. www. artintheheart.co.uk/. info@artintheheart. co.uk Until Monday 31 December ‘Places to Be’ Following extensive conservation, Peterborough’s own Antony Gormley series of three life-size sculptures are now on view.

Free. City Gallery, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 864663. arts@vivacitypeterborough.com. www.vivacitypeterborough.com/event/place-tobe-antony-gormley-sculptures-ondisplay.

Until Thursday 31 January Art at Andronicas Louise Stebbings’ dramatic etchings and linocuts reminiscent of Van Gogh in a new exhibition Free. Andronica’s World of Coffee, Peterborough Garden Park, Peterborough, PE1 4YZ. www. peterboroughgardenpark.co.uk. www.skylarkstudios.co.uk .

Saturday 1 December Journey to Christmas in Music and Song 7:30pm Get into the seasonal swing with The Soke Big Band and Peterborough Opera; reindeer antlers and Christmas jumpers welcome!

Tickets £10 from the Visitor Information Centre, Bridge Street, Peterborough, PE1 1HJ or on the door; platformpeterborough@yahoo. co.uk. 01733 452336. St Johns the Baptist Church, Church Street, Cathedral Square, Peterborough, PE1 1XE. Wednesday 5 December Discovering Native Trees at Ferry Meadows Country Park

1.30pm – 3.45pm An illustrated talk followed by a walk. Free - booking essential.

01733 234193. visitor.services@ neneparktrust.org.uk. Nene Park Trust, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5U. Thursday 6 December Tango Motion 7.30pm The worlds’ leading Tango Argentino dancers accompanied by breathtaking, live music. £14 (£12); £5 under 21s. Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4FJ. www.tangomotion.co.uk.

Friday December 7 and Saturday December 15 The Chronicles of Narena A party to remember: fur coats, wardrobe doors, a magical winter world based on Narnia with a threecourse festive menu, vodka luge; free candy floss, ice cream and Turkish delight plus skating.

Tickets: £46.95. katie@ peterborougharena.com.

Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE. www. peterborougharena.com.

Thursday 13 December - Sunday 16 December Historic Christmas Market 10am to 9pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am to 5pm Sunday.

Exotic stalls, music, storytelling, fire-breathers, costumed characters, entertainment and refreshments.

Free. Peterborough Cathedral Precincts, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. www.peterboroughcathedral.org.uk; www. vivacity-peterborough. com.

Sunday 16 December Peterborough Jazz Club Christmas Special: Liane Carroll Trio

7.30pm Hot from the legendary Ronnie Scott’s and Dizzy’s Jazz Club in New York. Book now!

Contact Laurie Jacobs on 01733 571764 or enquiries@ peterboroughjazzclub.co.uk. Great Northern Hotel, Station Approach, Peterborough, PE1 1QL. www. peterboroughjazzclub.co.uk Wednesday 19 and Friday 21 December Christmas Murder Mystery Dress up in 1891 costume to enjoy a three-course silver service Christmas dinner and solve the Infirmary murder! £60 - pre-booking essential.

Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 864663. museum@ vivacity-peterborough.com. www. vivacity-peterborough.com Tuesday 25 December Christmas Day Services at Peterborough Cathedral 8am Holy Communion 10am Matins 11am Cathedral Eucharist 3.30pm Festival Evensong and Procession Celebrate the day in our most stunning building.

All welcome. Peterborough Cathedral, 12a Minster Precincts, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. www. peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

01733 355315

Historic Peterborough Cathedral

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2012

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21/11/12 11:23:28

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TEL: TOM 402555 WE COME TO YOU07538 7 DAYS A WEEK

HYPNO-SLIMMING

WE COME TO YOU 7 DAYS A WEEK

Amazing new easy way to lose weight

YOUR CAR VALETED TO SHOWROOM CONDITION FROM CONDITION FROM JUSTJUST £20 £20

• Are you unhappy with your weight • Tried all types of diets • Dislike the way you look in the mirror • Uncomfortable with your size • Can’t shift that extra weight • Clothes don’t fit • No motivation

YOUR CAR VALETED TO SHOWROOM

20 POINT CHECK LIST REPORT 20 POINT CHECK LISTALL REPORTVALETS WITH ALL VALETS WITH

RING FOR FULL DETAILS. CRB CHECKED

RING FOR FULL DETAILS. CRB CHECKED

COMPUTER SERVICES

Computer Problems?

Call Ideal IT Services today to make your computer problems disappear • NO FIX NO FEE • NO call Out chargE • FIXEd FEEs • NO quIbblE FOllOw-ups • pIck up aNd drOp OFF sErvIcE • wEEkENd sErvIcE avaIlablE • busINEss suppOrt packagEs alsO avaIlablE

The Hypno-Slimming Programme can help you includes Free Hypnotic Gastric Band worth £150 Quit smoking in just 1 hour with hypnosis

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

Free initial consultation www.curativehypnotherapy.com

@locallivinguk

Food Fashion

Covering Sta mford, Rutland, Market Harborough and the Nene Valley

Health & Beauty Home & Garden Lifestyle

Magazine and Brochure Design service We can create the look and feel that is right for your business, backed up by years of design experience Call Steve on 01780 765222 to discuss your design requirements or email steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk

01778 485551

www.idealitservices.co.uk info@idealitservices.co.uk

RIDGEWAY GARAGE DOORS

hIgh qualIty, lOw cOst It suppOrt

DECORATING

To place an advert in next months magazine Domestic - Commercial please call Insurance work - General Decorating I n t e r i o r &FullyEQualified x t e r i&oInsured r Decorating Bridget on I n t e Ir ni ot e r r&i o E r x&t eEr xi ot e r rDi oerc o Dreact oi nr g ating 01780 751978 07793 033659 01780 01780 751978 751978 0779307793 033659 033659 01733 707538

Local family run business specialising in the supply and installation of manual & automatic garage doors.

Interior & Exterior Decorating 01780 751978

07793 033659

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Italian food as it should be, simple, elegant & full of flavour.

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The Firenze Winter menus are here to enjoy

• Steel, Timber and Glass Reinforced Plastic Doors Also available Security Shutters, Spare Parts & Repair Service

Telephone 0116 279 6260 firenze.co.uk

We pride ourselves on great customer service

Tel: 01733 772934

Email: ridgewaygaragedoors@ fsmail.net

21/11/12 11:12:18

A 17th Century Hotel with a 21st Century Twist

gs in ok bo ng as ei tm w b en ris no tak

Ch Steeped in hundreds of years of history, this delightful coaching inn offers something for everyone – enjoy family friendly meals in our light filled Garden Room, a quiet business lunch in the Oak Room, or perhaps morning coffee or a sumptuous afternoon tea in our wonderful Sun Room.

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

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!

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Oundle, Nr Peterborough 21/11/12 12:19:45