Nene Valley Living December 2011 by Best Local Living

HELPING YOU TO GET THE MOST OUT OF LIVING LOCALLY

NENE VALLEY LIVING FOOD/FASHION/HEALTH & BEAUTY/HOME & GARDEN/LIFESTYLE

Tastes of Christmas Local foods you’ll love DECK THE HALLS Evergreen ideas MAGIC MOMENTS Walks, festivals and carols

£1.50 DECEMBER 2011

@LocalLivingUK

WWW.BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK

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OPEN TILL

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NENE VALLEY LIVING

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

@LocalLivingUK

r e b m e c e D e u s s i s i Th W

hat makes a happy Nene Christmas? • Long walks, followed by a drink at a country pub. We’re spoiled for choice, but try The Queens Head, Nassington, The Shuckburgh Arms, Southwick, The Red Lion, Warmington and The Kings Head, Polebrook, all guaranteed to have a roaring ﬁre in the grate. • Fresh Fenland celery with the black soil still on, from Peterborough City Market • A local, plump goose or a turkey from Seven Wells family butcher in Oundle. Take your own pot and they’ll put a delicious pie in it for you – great if you have guests descending. Tel: 01832 273522 • A visit to Peterborough Cathedral. It’s awe-inspiring, however many times you’ve been • Christmas shopping in Oundle, followed by coffee and warm banana bread at Dexters (just off the Market Square) • Home baking with crystallised fruit, fresh spices and nuts from Silver Lane health food shop, Stamford. Friendly staff and great service • A trip to Santa’s Christmas Circus at Van Hage, Peterborough Garden Park, from December 21st – December 31st (not Christmas Day or Boxing Day). £5 per ticket. Tel: 01733 221400 or online booking at www.vanhage.co.uk • Choose a fragrant, fresh Christmas tree from one of the area’s many garden centres. We have some great recommendations for decorating with natural greenery on page 14. Enjoy the break, however you choose to spend your festive season.

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

Cover shot:

Christmas cookies by Lesley Anne Churchill (www. lesleyannechurchill. com)

Editor’s selection

Upfront

Christmas treats, concerts and exhibitions Oundle Mill and QKS Kitchens A Christmas Festival

11 Upfront 12 TASTES OF CHRISTMAS

Nene Valley People: Margaret’s Tea Shop, Peterborough

12 Tastes of Christmas

Wonderful food from local suppliers

14 Gorgeous greenery

Keep it simple with natural evergreens

17 A passion for fashion Paul and Gill Haynes from Jacks

17 A PASSION FOR FASHION

21 Health and beauty notes Personalised pilates

23 My perfect gift

Retailers share their insider secrets

27 Food news

Stamford’s latest eateries reviewed

31 OAKHAM ALES 34 PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL 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 Warner’s of Bourne

31 Best Brew

A micro-brewery goes large

34 Reaching out

Peterborough Cathedral opens its doors

36 The golden touch

Champion skater Robin Cousins comes to town

38 Calendar Girls

Why the good ladies of Polebrook are stripping off

41 Motoring Marshall Volvo

42 Let the bells ring out Campanology at Christmas

45 Diary dates

Great events this month

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 2011

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We have now opened our latest Antique Centre at 1c West Street, Helpston, PE6 7DU Valuation Days held every Wednesday Antiques Bought and Sold • Free Valuations Restoration Work Undertaken Gold & Silver Bought – Best Prices Given Please call to speak to one of our experts

07901 513404 01778 348865

or email stuy.antiques@gmail.com

Valuations Given

Dave & Maggie Wright are PLeaSeD to announce they are back With a neW retaiL buSineSS Which oPeneD on the 1St of october. FEET FIRST

SKI SPECIALISTS

• We provide a full foot analysis, gait analysis and a biomechanical assessment. our service is for sports enthusiasts, people who spend a long time on their feet, people who have a medical problem or just sore tired feet. • We measure your feet, asses any problems you may have and direct you to the best choice of footwear for you, ensuring you have the most comfortable fit possible. • We are specialists in making and fitting custom orthotics for improved comfort, performance or balance or to simply solve a problem. • We can modify all kinds of footwear. from everyday shoes where a bunion may be causing discomfort to Ski boots which are a speciality. • We apply all of these skills to running, golf, football, rugby, and tennis in fact any sport or everyday footwear.

• Stockist of all leading brands and award winning models of skis. • Specialist full custom fit service for ski boots for all ability levels and foot types. • great range of ski helmets from leading brands. • comprehensive range of ski clothing and accessories to suit all budgets. • Professional Wintersteiger ski workshop. TREKKING & OUTDOOR • Walking boots a speciality with a good selection from Salomon, Meindl and Scarpa to fit all foot types and all levels. • fast and light mountain running and walking products. • competitively priced high performance clothing ranges. • full range of Leki walking and nordic walking poles. • good selection of mountain accessories

1D Mancetter Square, LincoLn roaD, Werrington, Peterborough Pe4 6bX

01733 326091 - info@SkianDfoot.co.uk WWW.WrightSSkianDfootSoLutionS.co.uk

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Editor’s selection Seasonal picks for December

Baroque Christmas by Candlelight, a festive concert by celebrated string ensemble The Harborough Collective in St Peter’s Church, Oundle, with favourites such as ‘Winter’ from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Corelli’s Christmas Concerto. Mulled wine and mince pies. £12.50 adults, £5 under 18s, via www.oundlefestival.org.uk or tel: 01832 274724

Red star decoration, £25, John Lewis, Queensgate, Peterborough

Christmas town house cushion, £20, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

2012 calendar by local artist Carry Ackroyd, £8, from Foxtail Lilly, 41 South Rd, Oundle Tel: 01832 274593

Christmas stocking, handmade in Wittering, near Peterborough, £20, from www.theemporiumoundle. com (online only)

An Opus Candy cocktail at Opus Dai, Broad St, Stamford

Nature Inside and Out, is an exhibition by four leading local artists at Andronicas World of Coffee, Peterborough Garden Park, until January 2012. This picture, by Tony Nero, is entitled My Fruit Bowl. Also exhibiting, Rene Viner, John Lincoln and Mary Kemp

Vintage crime novel, £3, from The Courthouse Bookshop, Workshop Unit 3, The Courthouse, Mill Rd, Oundle PE8 4BW www.courthousebookshop. co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

The heart of the home What could be more inviting on a winter’s evening than a cosy fire? Whether it’s a real flames, or an efficient gas or electric stove, Coles for Fires of Kettering can help. This family-run company offers a friendly service for all heating requirements, whether that’s a new fireplace surround, a wood burning stove, or complete installation of a central heating system. Whether you wish to have a minimalist contemporary look, or prefer a more traditional choice, the in-house team of professionals can help you to make the best choice for your home. If you have a real fire, but experience chimney problems, Coles for Fires has the expertise to help, offering flue liner supply and fit, and alterations. A fully registered National Association of Chimney Sweeps service is also available. For a free survey and no-obligation quote, call 01536 410777 or email colesforfires@hotmail.co.uk There is also a comprehensive website, www.colesforfires.co.uk

QKS Kitchens open retail unit QKS Kitchens, Stamford’s leading kitchen supplier, has just opened a shop in Star Lane, Stamford, a hundred yards from Marks and Spencer. Malcolm Brandwood, the owner, comments: “we wanted to show off all the things we can do to a larger public. We have kitted out the shop from scratch, with a stunning fitted kitchen, an Aga Total and a bedroom setting. The shop is aimed to inspire you to create your dream kitchen or bedroom, and our staff will be able to help you turn that dream into a reality at an affordable price.” There’s also going to be lots of new things going on in the main showroom in the Barnack Rd. Fifteen new kitchen displays will be going in, and there is also a showroom devoted to larger ovens and fridges. The company has five in-house designers and a virtual reality capability that helps you visualise your kitchen. As always, QKS aims to stay one step ahead of the market. If you fancy learning how to cook Indian, there is a cookery demonstration planned at the showroom on Saturday December 3rd 10am-3pm, where Veronica from Veronica’s Indian Food will be giving advice and showing you how to achieve great results. Shop address: 3 Star Lane, Stamford, PE9 1BH Showroom address: QKS The Maltings, Barnack Rd, Stamford PE9 2NA Tel: 01780 756514; www.qksstamford.co.uk

Jazz at The Great Northern Hotel If you love jazz, catch Tina May at The Great Northern Hotel, Peterborough for a Christmas gig on Sunday 11th December at 8pm. She’ll be appearing with her band, including special guest Jim Mullen on guitar. Tina recently recorded a CD with her Paris quintet, and has a busy touring international schedule. To book tickets, email enquiries@peterboroughjazzclub.co.uk

Discover great food at Oundle Mill Oundle Mill, Restaurant of the Year at the 2010/11 Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, has recently appointed a new head chef, Gavin Austin, to develop the Mill’s fabulous food reputation. Gavin brings a wealth of food experience with him. He began his career at The Hoste Arms, Burnham Market, before progressing to London, where he worked at the Michelinstarred Chez Nico, L’Escargot and the opening of the St Pancras Grand. “I am very passionate about food,” says Gavin. “I use many different cooking techniques but I am a great believer in simplicity and the end result being delicious and unfussy. I don’t try to use too many ingredients at once.” He is introducing new menus that are designed so there is something for every occasion and mood, from the more adventurous, to the tried and trusted favourites. Affordability is key: a meal for two will cost no more than a good local pub, but uses top quality, locally sourced ingredients cooked by a very talented team. As well as the daily menu for lunch and dinner, there is a Bar Menu for quick bites at lunchtime. So, you can just pop in for a pie, a Scotch egg, club sandwich, or cheese burger and fries. Special offer: dine for half price on Mondays in December and January and try out the new menu Oundle Mill, Barnwell Rd, Oundle, PE8 5PB Tel: 01832 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk

New gallery for Peterborough Artists have a new opportunity to showcase their work at Peterborough’s latest space at Aston Business Park, Woodston. The 1000square foot Gallery opened in November with the intention of helping emerging and established artists to gain exposure, and to enable art lovers to purchase original works. In addition, local artists can give demonstrations of their work during live sessions, and there will be space for tutors to give workshops. Owner Julie Fisher says: “I am passionate about the arts and have wanted to provide a platform for local artists to display their work for some time.” To submit examples of your work, email Julie at www.thegallerypeterborough@ virginmedia.com Local businesses interested in sponsoring artists, or getting involved in The Gallery, should call 01733 306246.

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Coles for Fires

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront

Taking care of your holidays Oundle Travel in the spotlight

Director Paula Cockcroft’s career in the travel industry spans 30 years. Following a career with British Airways and Thomas Cook, she joined the former Kitts Travel in Oundle 16 years ago, and purchased the business in 2006. “During this time I have seen the business go from strength to strength, our customer loyalty is second to none,” comments Paula. “We offer the highest standards of customer service in friendly and relaxed surroundings. I believe that as a truly independent agency we are able to offer honest and unbiased advice based on personal recommendations together with our award winning selection of individual brochures. It is so important to speak to someone experienced who will look after you from the minute you make your travel arrangements until you return home.” As a fully ABTA bonded travel agent Oundle Travel offer full financial protection of clients’ money. The team understand how daunting it can be trying to decide where to venture on holiday. Oundle Travel offers a popular appointment service which enables clients to talk through holiday arrangements at leisure. The staff are well travelled and Paula believes that by taking advantage of educational trips offered by some of the agency’s top suppliers, the team are up to date with hotel and resort knowledge. During the last year alone, team members have visited St Lucia, Jordan, Egypt, Marrakech, Cyprus, and most recently, Venice on the Orient Express. Whether it’s your dream honeymoon, a trip to Australia, the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean or your next family holiday, Oundle Travel can help. The agency has considerable experience with long haul holidays and specialises in tailor made itineraries to South Africa, India, South America, Canada and New Zealand. If you want to avoid the uncertainty of not knowing how good your next holiday will be then visit Oundle Travel: this team has the ability and expertise to make your next holiday experience wonderful from start to finish. Oundle Travel Limited, Market Place, Oundle PE8 4EA 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk

Christmas cheer in Stamford Get into the festive mood with a trip to Stamford on December 11th. The town will be taken over by the annual Christmas Festival, hosted by Stamford Town Partnership LIC and Stamford Town Council. The aim is to create an affordable and memorable experience with entertainment, fun fair attractions and 200 trade and exhibitor stalls. There will be arts and crafts markets, luxury festive food and drink halls, all day live entertainment, with choirs, dancers, theatre, street artists, local radio, Santa’s Grotto and nativity scenes. Rutland Radio’s Rob Persani will be supporting the Festival, with a best children’s hat competition. Contact Rutland Radio on 01572 757868 for entry details. There’s also the chance to win a Christmas Festival Bumper Hamper, with tickets on sale on Festival Day. Each prize is crammed with food and drink, and high street vouchers for local shops, restaurants and bistros. Funding for this year’s festival has come from local sources, and organiser Ali Hawley-Smith is very grateful for the support shown by businesses, schools, colleges and volunteer groups. Stamford Christmas Festival. 10am-4pm. For information, including details of road closures, visit www.visitstamford.com/xmas

A moment’s peace

Take a break from Christmas shopping with a hot drink and a mince pie at St John’s Church in Cathedral Square, Peterborough, 1-4pm on December 17th - 18th or 12 - 4pm on the 22nd and 23rd December. You can also dress up as Mary, Joseph, a King or a little Angel and have your photo taken for a free e-card to send to family and friends. www.cticp.org.uk/lovecamedownatchristmas

Enhance your home with a styling service

People looking to buy or sell a house in the area can now take advantage of the home services offered by a new local business. Amanda Tolley has launched the service in response to the difficulties that many people face in a challenging property market. “Presenting your home in the best possible way really does make all the difference,” she says. “Working across all budgets, I can suggest or source accessories and furniture to style your home and improve the look and saleability of the house.” The interior styling service works for privately owned homes and businesses. Local businessman Nick Hurford, from Hurford and Tebbutt, is one of Amanda’s clients. “We have recently constructed a new showroom and we used Grove Lane to style our new kitchen showroom displays. I’ve been so impressed with the result that she is now working on our new bedroom display ranges.” You can see the results at the Hurford and Tebbutt showrooms in Fengate, Peterborough (tel: 01733 561991). Grove Lane also offers a House Hunting Service for customers looking to buy in the area. To find out more, or for a no-obligation quote, contact 07787 436982 or email sales@grove-lane.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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Advertisement Feature

RELAX, REFRESH… AND CREATE! Discover the brand new ceramic painting studio at Andronicas World of Coffee at Peterborough Garden Park and make your own special masterpiece in a relaxing environment. It’s the perfect activity for children, too

here’s nothing more satisfying than letting your creativity loose and making something to treasure. Andronicas World of Coffee have made it easy for you in their new ceramic painting studio, situated on the airy, upper mezzanine of their gourmet coffee shop at Peterborough Garden Park. Go with a group of up to 20 people, purchase a plain, white piece of pottery in a shape that appeals, then spend a relaxed hour and a half choosing your colours and decorating your design. Everything, from brushes to aprons, is provided, including expert advice. If you’d like some food for thought while you work, or just fancy a break to help release your inner artist, pop downstairs for a latte or cappuccino made from some of the best freshly ground coffee beans in the world, and perhaps have a cake, pastry, sandwich or wrap CREATE A from the café menu. The aim is to make you MASTERPIECE… feel at home - while you get creative. IN 3 EASY STEP Parties of children and adults are welcome, S • Simply select yo ur plain white whether you are celebrating a birthday, piece of pottery from a choice hen weekend, or just want to have some including plates, mugs, cups and bo downtime with friends. “It’s fun to get a wls • Let your imagina tion run wild! All group of people together and do something your painting materia ls are supplied so all different,” explains Andrew Knight, owner you have to do is get creative of Andronicas World of Coffee. “It’s a • Leave your piece with the Andron icas great activity for children, but also for team, who’ll fire it in the in-house kiln to protect your ar groups of older people, who might enjoy a twork. One week glass of wine at the same time.” Once you’ve later, it’s ready for finished painting your piece to your satisfaction, you to collect Andronicas will do the rest. They’ll fire it in their inhouse kiln to preserve your design. Then all you need to do is pop back in a week to pick it up. • To book, contact Andronicas World of Coffee, Unit 20, Peterborough Garden Park, Eye Road, Peterborough PE1 4YZ Tel: 020 77494791 www.andronicas.com. Studio opening times: Monday 11am-5pm, Tuesday 11am-5pm, Wednesday 11am-5pm, Thursday 11am-5pm Friday 11am-5pm, Saturday 11am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm

Made with love Celebrating a wedding, christening or anniversary? There’s nothing like the personal touch to create an extra special present for family and friends. At Andronicas’ new ceramic painting cafe, it’s easy to create a gift that will surprise and delight. You don’t have to be a great artist (although you might surprise yourself). Simple, bold designs, or just some carefully chosen words on a plate, mug or bowl make a gift to be cherished for years to come.

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront

Family festive fun at your local library

Join in a free, drop-in craft day at selected libraries in Peterborough this month and channel the festive spirit. Saturday 3 December 10.30am-12.30pm at Orton Library and 1.30pm-3.30pm at Central Library. Make patchwork paper decorations, finger puppets and other winter creatures to take home. The crafts will be inspired by specially chosen stories which you can read and enjoy as a family. Suitable for ages 6-11, accompanied children only. On Saturday 17th December, 10am-12pm, learn how to make salt dough decorations at Werrington Library.

Ask the expert Nene Valley People Belinda Smith on the fall-out from bankruptcy and divorce

Bankruptcy and divorce: two words not guaranteed to cheer you up in the current economic climate. With good reason – the effect of bankruptcy on divorce can make an already difficult situation a disaster. The number of people going bankrupt has risen astronomically in recent years. In 1990 it was about 5,000, last year it was over 80,000. What does this mean for a divorcing couple? For the sake of argument, it is nearly always the wife who is vulnerable to the effects of a husband’s bankruptcy and how that will dissipate the matrimonial assets. On bankruptcy, the Official Receiver becomes the manager of the bankrupt’s estate which consists of everything the bankrupt owns either in his sole name or jointly, at the date of the bankruptcy. It is the matrimonial home that can cause the biggest headache. When financial proceedings within divorce are ongoing, but no court order transferring the matrimonial home to the wife has yet been made, if the husband goes bankrupt in the meantime, the Trustee in Bankruptcy will want at least 50% of the value of the house. Bankruptcy law is complex and for the purposes of this article, I will summarise this cautionary tale by advising that, if there is any risk that a husband is about to go bankrupt, (either by his own petition or through a creditor), avoid it at all costs until after the final order in the financial remedy proceedings, which transfers the house into the wife’s sole name. You also need to ensure that the decree absolute is applied for promptly, as this makes the court order enforceable. So wives, watch out, if you have any suspicion that your estranged husband may be risking bankruptcy, get your solicitor to do a search on the Individual Insolvency Register, and to pull out the stops and protect your interests. For more information about this article or any other questions relating to family law contact Belinda Smith of Belinda Smith & Co Solicitors Tel. 01733 267414 or visit www.bscosolicitors.co.uk.

Five minutes with Jane Mayhew, manager of Margaret’s Tea Room, Peterborough

Tell us about your business We’re aiming to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where people can come and meet friends, sit and read, or use our free WiFi. We make all our own cakes, scones and sandwiches here in our kitchen, and pride ourselves on our speciality teas. Michael enjoys baking and chatting with the customers, while I focus on the business side of things – our skills complement each other. Who’s Margaret? Michael’s mum – she’s had a huge influence on his passion for cakes How are you different to the rest? We’re very customer focused, with waitress service, and we like to think we offer something a bit different. For example, we do hot milk shakes, and for the Christmas period, we’ll be offering spiced apple juice and hot chocolate with chilli, along with home made mince pies. What are your best sellers? Michael’s home made scones always fly out, and our open grilled sandwiches are proving to be extremely popular, especially the pear and stilton. We’re always being asked for a good old bacon sandwich, which we’re always happy to provide. What’s next for Margaret’s? We plan to expand our ‘picnics for businesses’ idea, where we’ll bring an afternoon tea picnic, complete with teapot, cups, saucers, sandwiches and cake to offices in central Peterborough. It’s ideal for meetings, as we just leave it with you, and pick up the washing up later. We’d also like to be recognized by The Tea Guild, a prestigious organization which encourages outlets which are dedicated to serving tea served to the high standards of the United Kingdom Tea Council, and we’re working towards that now. Margaret’s Tea Room, 5 Wentworth St, Peterborough PE1 1DG Tel: 01733 346381 NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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FOOD & DRINK

Tastes of

Christmas It’s time to slow down and savour festive flavours from some of the area’s best local suppliers. Words: Bridget Steele. Illustrations by Alanna Richardson

Cakes for Christmas

Cupcakes are no fashion fad - and you won’t get better than a box of beautifully designed and decorated cakes by Butterflies Cupcake House in Peterborough. A box of 12 cupcakes is £25 and larger Christmas cakes cost from £20. Cakes are made to order on the premises, and there is a wide selection of flavours and sizes. Expect friendly and professional service from an impressive mother and daughter team. Butterflies Cupcake House, 9/10 Fenlake Business Centre, Fengate, Peterborough, PE1 5BQ Tel: 07825 347441 www.butterfilescupcakes.com. Open 10am-5pm. Closed Thursdays and Sundays.

Beautiful bakes It’s the first Christmas in Oundle for Hambleton Bakery: their Christmas puddings, which come in large or small, can be ordered ahead. Seasonal bakes include clementine tarts, mince pies, Stilton and celery scones, cranberry and white chocolate cookies and melting shortbreads. Looking for a time-saving shortcut? Hambleton’s homemade stuffing is great, and we won’t tell if you don’t….. Hambleton Bakery, 44 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4AU Tel: 01572 812995 www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

Cheese board

Gourmet Delis in Oundle have an excellent selection of cheeses, chutneys and luxury biscuits. Put together a mini hamper for a hard-to-buy-for relative or friend. Scotch eggs are a new addition to the shop and are made locally. Gourmet Delis, West Street, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 274396

Something sweet Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without plenty of chocolate. Willy Wonka’s chocolate bars are a new addition to Palmer’s Christmas selection, plus a great range of luxury goodies such as Italian Nougat in Amaretti, Pistachio or hazelnut flavours, grown up truffle “lollipops”, Montezumas Hot chocolate and spread. Speciality chocolates are also available for diabetics, vegans and gluten free diets. Mail order service and gift wrapping available. Palmer’s Chocolate, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ, Tel: 01832 275896 www.palmerschocolate.co.uk

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Go for game J Bell and son in Warmington are taking Christmas orders for pheasants, partridge, wild duck, wood pigeon, guinea fowl and hare. They also have a smokery, and specialise in their own applewood smoked salmon, trout, venison, sausage and black bacon. J Bell and Son, Hautboy Lane, Warmington, Peterborough PE8 6TQ Tel: 01832 280216

Hand over a hamper Normans of Oundle have a bespoke range of Christmas Hampers that can include fruit, Mrs Bridge’s Jams, sweets, and Rocks Organic Cordials. Boxes are from £30 and are delivered free of charge in Oundle. Small fruit baskets are available from £10. Normans also have their own veg box delivery service from £10. Normans of Oundle, 14 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BQ Tel: 01832 273545 www.normansoundle.co.uk

Take-out treats If you haven’t discovered this little gem in Wansford village, now’s the time to make tracks. Lindsey Eassom bakes wonderful cakes on site at her shop, The Wansford Cakery. Go for her chocolate or vanilla Christmas themed cupcakes at 95p each, festive muffins, plus traditional mince pies and Christmas cakes. The cupcakes and mince pies are available to order until 23rd December but they are also available in the store. You could also grab a gingerbread latte while you wait… Wansford Cakery, 31 Elton Road, Wansford, Peterborough PE8 6JD Tel: 07754321895 thewansfordcakery@gmail.com

Simon Mould and David Bretherick

Smokin’ bacon

If you are tired of oozy supermarket bacon, head to Mould’s butchers in Nassington, where they have created something very special indeed. Their home cured traditional bacon is produced on site, using the best loin and belly pork. It is boned and scored, before being dry cured – a process which draws the moisture from the meat. It is then hung for a week to dry, before being sliced into perfect little rashers. “Our customers comment that it is like old fashioned bacon: one lady told us that her husband had waited 25 years to rediscover the taste,” says owner Simon Mould. Perfect for wrapping round your Christmas chipolatas, or serving up for Boxing Day breakfast – and it won’t break the bank. Order ahead for Christmas. The home made pate and sausages are also worth adding to your Christmas grocery list. J and RG Mould, 17 Station Rd, Nassington, PE8 6QB Tel: 01780 782249

Hale and hearty Willow Brook Farm, near Helpston, is doing some great value meat packages this year. The Willow Brook Christmas Hamper includes a 101b Free range turkey, 21b meat joint and bacon joint and one pound of sausage meat, chipolata sausages and streaky bacon for £55. Smaller Butchers Hampers are also available. The Farm also stocks game, home made pork pies and a great range of chutneys and sauces. It is best to order ahead. Willow Brook Farm Shop and Granary, Scotsman Lodge, Helpston Heath, Stamford Road, Peterborough, PE6 7EL www.willowbrookfarmshop.co.uk Tel: 01780 740261 NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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HOME & GARDEN

Gorgeous greenery Bring the outside in with fresh, seasonal decorations. By Linda Lin

t about the time that children open the first windows on their Advent calendars, Peterborough-area florists and garden centres will be setting out their displays of fresh Christmas decorations. Unlike manufactured ornaments and artificial trees, living arrangements will not arrive in stores until late November or early December. But there is nothing to compare with the Christmassy scent of fresh fir, or the vibrant green and red of holly boughs. Local stockists are offering a variety of garlands, swags, crosses, mantles, table centrepieces – including bespoke arrangements, and courses for those who want to learn the art of wreath-making for themselves.

Foxtail Lilly

The Barn Garden Centre

Dobbies Serpentine Green, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8NY Tel: 01733 898 640 Dobbies, at the entrance to Serpentine Green, offer fresh holly wreaths, as well as a wide variety of Christmas trees including Nordmann Firs (well-known for retaining their needles), Frasier Firs, Noble Firs, and the traditional Norway Spruce. The new £8-million environmentally-friendly garden leisure destination opened at the end of the summer and has green credentials including point-of-origin labelling – so consumers can buy ‘local’ (or at least UKsourced) products – an electric vehicle charging station, and an eco-shop selling insulation, composting equipment, and products made from recycled and sustainable materials.

Van Hage Unit 1, Peterborough Garden Park, Peterborough Road, Eye, Peterborough, PE1 4YZ Tel: 01733 221 400 Van Hage offers several aisles of impressive Christmas displays, including grottos of light-up reindeer and forests of ornaments with distinct themes. For living holiday décor, Van Hage has traditional holly wreaths, and this year will be introducing a line of crosses featuring holly and berries. They also carry an unusual heartshaped bedded holly wreath. Or you can opt for traditional foliage wreaths in blue spruce and Nordmann trees (cut, potted and pot-grown), as well as loose mistletoe in small bundles, and bunches of loose holly and foliage.

The Barn Garden Centre Barnwell Road, Oundle, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE8 5PB Tel: 01832 273 310 The Barn offers plain and decorated holly wreaths, as well as classic foliage wreaths – both plain and decorated with berries, cones and bows, and a spicy wreath featuring

festive oranges and cinnamon. They also carry both cut and container-grown Christmas trees in coniferous favourites.

to Christmas. Topics covered will include wreath making, table arrangements, and seasonal hand-tied bouquets.

Bespoke Buds

Elton Hall Garden Store

Elton Hall, Elton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE8 6SH Tel: 01832 280058 The garden centre at Elton Hall has plain (starting at £8.99) and simply decorated (starting at £11.99) Noble Fir wreaths with decorations ranging from simple cones and bows, to more elaborate oranges and cinnamon sticks. Or try simply decorated Noble Fir door hangers (starting at £8.99), and door hangers made fresh in-store each week. In addition to cut trees including Norway spruces and Nordmanns, there are bunches of mistletoe, holly, and Noble Fir foliage for customers interested in making their own arrangements, as well as cut branches of foliage.

Foxtail Lilly 41 South Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4BP Tel: 01832 274593 Oundle’s Foxtail Lilly offers a variety of bespoke Christmas arrangements that evoke the spirit of the holiday. Foxtail Lilly do wreaths, garlands, table arrangements, small containers arrangements suitable as presents, and foliage bundles. “I use a lot of eucalyptus, ivy and rosemary,” says Tracey Mathieson, which she decorates with creative additions such as berries, seed heads from the garden, and roses. In addition, Tracey will be offering mini-workshops on Monday and Saturday afternoons from 3rd December in the run-up

Bespoke Buds www.bespokebuds. com jo@bespokebuds.com Tel: 01733 344738 Jo Poulter, a NAFAS-qualified (National Association of Flower Arranging Society, www.nafas.org.uk) demonstrator, established Bespoke Buds five years ago. The wedding and event floral designer specialises in individual bespoke commissions at this time of year, such as dressing an 18foot dining table with a multitude of candles, fruits and berries, and door rings to welcome Christmas guests. “One of my favourite designs at Christmas,” she says, “Is a multi-wick candle with a diameter as big as a tea plate surrounded by limes, white roses and berries, with star anise and cinnamon for scent.” Jo offers a wreath-making ‘party’, where a host invites friends to their home for lunch, and during the morning each guest makes their own piece. For approximately £22 per person, Jo provides all the materials for everyone to make their own 35/40cm spruce door ring (minimum five attendees).

Tandee Nursery Barnwell Road, Thurning, Nr. Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5RH Tel: 01832 293 755 Tandee Nursery in Thurning has holly wreaths with green and variegated foliage, including ones decorated with berries, flowers, cones, and waterproof bows. In addition to wreaths, Tandee also offers crosses, mantles, and swags.

8 NENE 14 NENE VALLEY VALLEY LIVING LIVING DECEMBER July 2008 2011

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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

The Wansford Cakery • • • •

Specialising in homemade cakes Cupcakes made to order Fresh filled baguettes Tea and freshly ground coffee to takeaway

Christmas cup cakes and mince pies available to order until 23rd Dec 31 Elton Road, Wansford, PE8 6JD T: 07754 321895 E: thewansfordcakery@gmail.com

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

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm, Sat 9am-2pm

The

Cherry house Restaurant

“ The difference is in the detail...” Reservations Essential

• For Superb Food & Excellent Service in Delightful Surroundings

Reservations now being taken

HOME REARED AND LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT AND POULTRY FOR YOUR FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS! Christmas Hamper: 10lb free range turkey, 2lb meat joint, 2lb bacon joint,1lb sausage meat, 1lb chipolata sausages & 1lb streaky bacon. Only £55

Christmas Party Lunch & Dinner Menus from 25th Nov. 3 course lunch or dinner Coffee & seasonal petit fours Christmas crackers, party hats & poppers

WILLOW BROOK FARM SHOP & TRADITIONAL BUTCHERS

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

Butchers Selection: 4lb boned gammon joint, 12 pigs in blankets, 1lb of streaky bacon, 1lb minced beef, 1lb sausage meat & 1lb chipolatas. Only £25

Christmas for 2: One free range chicken, 4 pigs in blankets, 1lb chipolatas, 1lb sausage meat, 1/2 lb streaky bacon & 1 hand-raised pork pie. Only £19.99

CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN TELEPHONE ORDERS WELC OME (DEPOS IT REQUIRED)

THE GRANARY CAFÉ

GRANARY CHRISTMAS LUNCH OR EVENING MEAL BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKING Senior Citizen Days: Wed & Thur Farm House Breakfast: £3.99 - 9am-11.30am Main Meals £5, Pudding £2.50, 12noon to 2.30pm Visit www.willowbrookfarmsshop.co.uk for more information

Tel: 01780 740261 (Farm Shop) 01780 749483 (The Granary Café) Scotsman Lodge, Helpston Heath, Stamford Road, Peterborough PE6 7EL (Between Marholm & Ufford)

Granary Open: Tue-Fri 9am to 4pm, Sat 8.30am to 5pm, Sun 9am to 4pm Farm Shop Open: Tue-Fri 7am to 5.30pm, Sat 8am to 4pm, Sun 10am to 4pm 15

• NVL December ADS.indd 15

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Why not spend your Christmas in the kitChen? Küchen Kraft offer a stunning collection of contemporary and traditional kitchens

and we have kitchens to suit all tastes and lifestyles. Visit our showroom to find out more.

Küchen Kraft w w w. k u c h e n k r a f t . c o . u k

free planning | full installation | worktops | flooring | tiling

Showroom, 81 West Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4EJ 01832 270300

• NVL December ADS.indd 16

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FASHION

A passion for fashion Gill and Paul Haynes of Jacks run two successful independent clothing stores in Oundle and Market Harborough. Their secret? Great quality garments and accessories that real women actually want to wear. Fiona Cumberpatch reports

Gill Haynes of Jacks

ill Haynes is genuinely excited about fashion. “I still love seeing the new collections arrive: the lorry pulling up outside the shop, getting the boxes in and unpacking to reveal the colours, shapes and textures. When we’re out buying, coming across something expected still makes my heart skip a little beat.” Keeping things fresh is the key to business success in a difficult economic climate, says Gill. She and husband Paul undertake two buying trips each year for their three shops (two next door to each other in Market Harborough and one in Oundle) and are constantly searching out brands to bring customers back through the door time and again. Gill opened Jacks for Men in Market Harborough 15 years ago after spotting a gap in the market, and by 2000, she had expanded into women’s wear. As the business grew, joining forces with Paul, then a fashion agent in London, made perfect sense, and the couple added their Oundle shop to the business in 2002. “The sales floor is my territory and Paul’s is admin. and finance. That frees us up to do what we each do best,” says Gill.

Keeping it fresh

Continued on page 18 ▲

It’s a difficult time to be a small player on the high street, and the Haynes’ do not make light of the challenge. “Now, you have to make every penny work, set a budget and stick to it rigidly,” says Paul. “Keeping the shop exciting, evolving constantly, that is the key. We have 14 staff, as well as Saturday girls, who depend on us. It’s not a hobby. This is 24/7 for us.” But how can you compete when Primark can sell tops for £2, TK Maxx is busy bulk-buying NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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FASHION

“We get women travelling specially to Jacks from London, Nottingham and Gloucester…” designer names to sell at chain store prices and Asos is on everyone’s computer favourites list? “For longevity, it still makes sense to buy quality,” says Gill. “But we are aware that everyone is watching the pennies, and for that reason, we’ve recently introduced some good value collections from Esprit and YaYa, which are proving incredibly popular.” Personal service is also essential, believes Paul. “Some of our customers will phone ahead to see if their favourite member of staff is going to be here to advise them. We get women travelling here specially from London, Nottingham and Gloucester. They know that we have cherry-picked the collections and what they’ll be getting is a concise version, which makes choosing so much easier.” Adds Gill: “not everyone wants to shop on the high street. Knowing that you’ve bought something which makes you feel conﬁdent, which is special and right, counts for a lot.”

Gill and Paul in the Market Harborough store

Investment dressing Jacks sell clothes which work very hard for their money. Jeans by French Dressing which are designed to flatter real figures, softest leather jackets in beautiful colours, clever tops with flattering sleeves and elegant yet understated dresses to carry you through from day to night. If you do the cost-per-wear maths and factor in the sheer ease of getting dressed, it is an investment worth making. Then there are the accessories, which will not break the bank. A £25 statement necklace which can completely transform a plain top, pashminas and over-sized scarves in juicy colours and interesting textures, and cute little wool beanie hats trimmed with bows and sequins. Shoes and boots by Unisa are covetable, and classic with a twist. “Our accessories turn over very well,” observes Gill. The shop’s legendary seasonal sales are also a high point in any fashion-savvy shopper’s calendar. “They’re a necessary part of the business and they are very popular,” says Paul. “We never buy stock just for our sales, we only make genuine reductions and people know that.” Living and working in the town of Market Harborough means that the couple really do know their customer, which is vital when selecting the brands that they’ll stock. “We work six months ahead – our first piece of summer stock will be arriving soon,” explains Paul. “We work very hard to find new collections, and we have a good relationship with the agents who represent the fashion houses, so they might come to us and offer us first pick of what they have.” “Working ahead means you have to use your intuition, what will be relevant and up to date. Sometimes you take a gamble, while at the same time thinking about every penny that you’re spending,” says Gill. “But it’s visualising how the fashion ‘stories’ will sit in store, choosing the pieces and colours that we like best, finding something a little different that’s not on the internet for everyone to buy, that’s what keeps it so exciting and enjoyable.”

Gill’s tips for successful party dressing this season • When shopping for your special dress, check that you can sit down and that it doesn’t ride up too much. Move around - you need to feel that it’s secure enough to be able to dance the night away • Black is slimming and easier to accessorise and that’s why the Little Black Dress will always be a favourite (add a ‘pop’ of colour with shoes or a bag) • If you get static, which can happen with silk shirts, lightly rub a tumble dry sheet on the inside of the fabric • To eliminate underwear lines, have a good look at all the new shape wear out there which can help to smooth any lumps or bumps • Wear your party shoes around the house a few times before your evening out, and pop a Compeed plaster on any potential problem areas. They are fantastic and will allow you to have a comfortably great night out!

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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for christmas

S MA

SMA WARDROBES transform your home with sliding door wardrobes and matching bedroom furniture

> Floor to ceiling storage > Large range of styles - modern and traditional > Made to Measure > Fully guaranteed > Affordable ﬁtted wardrobes "Fantastic job, brilliant service. You have exceeded my expectations. Thank you." Mr C, Cambridge

TURN HEADS THIS CHRISTMAS Visit our stores to view our fabulous selection of gift ideas Jewellery • Cashmere Shoes & Boots • Hats & Scarves or a “Jacks” Gift Voucher The perfect place to start your Christmas shopping! and we even Gift Wrap it for you! Please note that our Market Harborough Stores will be Open on Sundays during December !

20 Market Place, Oundle Tel: 01832 270033 VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR PHONE FOR A FREE BROCHURE AND PRICE LIST: WWW.SMA-WARDROBES.CO.UK, 01480 417415

16 Church St, Market Harborough Tel: 01858 431396 19

• NVL December ADS.indd 19

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jade acupuncture CHRISTMAS GIFT PACKAGES Gift Vouchers in a Gift Box PARTY PACKAGE ½ Set of Eyelash Extensions & GEL File & Paint £55 (normally £63.50) PURE INDULGENCE Oro Facial, Eyebrow Shape, Deluxe GEL Manicure & Pedicure £145 (normally £160)

CKAGE PAMPER PA Back Hot Stone L/Life Massage, int EL File & Pa Facial & G ally £100 (norm

£115)

CACI ANTI-AGEING PACKAGE 10 x CACI 60Min Facials £450 (normally £600)

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

01832 272310 - Email: pure@farming.co.uk

raditional acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient principles which go back nearly two thousand years. It has a very positive model of good health and function, and looks at pain and illness as signs that the body is out of balance. The overall aim of acupuncture treatment, then, is to restore the body’s equilibrium. Acupuncture is widely considered to be beneficial for a range of illnesses and symptoms, from clearly defined complaints to more general feelings of ill health and low energy. To find out how acupuncture could help you, please contact

Corinne Alexander BA(Hons) MBAcC

07737 172939 www.jadeacupuncture.co.uk

DHS Business Centre, 226 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough PE1 3PB Also at - The Range, Toft Country House Hotel, Toft, Bourne PE10 0JT (Mondays only)

Christmas Treats NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT

Tones facial muscles, anti-ageing. Instant results Book a course for amazing benefits.

£45 per treatment MICRODERMABRASION FACIAL Boosts collagen and elastin. Treats lines and wrinkles, acne, pigmentation and tired skin. Great for teens upwards.

JESSICA GELeration NAILS

From £20

RETYLANE FILLERS AND ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS - IPL LASER HAIR REMOVAL Never need to shave or wax again

IPL LASER SKIN REJUVENATION

See fine lines and signs of ageing reduce and often completely disappear. Treats sun-damage, rosacea, thread veins.

ST TROPEZ AIR BRUSH TANNING

Full body tan. £15

PLUS! Elysia also offers all beauty and holistic treatments, not forgetting our newly launched mineral make-up range, and our ever popular pamper parties!

• NVL December ADS.indd 20

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Bridget Steele rounds up news from local health and beauty businesses

health & beauty notes Ease aches and pains with acupuncture

Acupuncture originated in China and in Eastern cultures and still features in mainstream healthcare there. It has also gained acceptance in the UK for certain treatments, such as pain relief. It involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points in the body to regulate the flow of ‘qi’, the body’s vital energy which can become disturbed, depleted or blocked resulting in pain and illness. Many people seek treatment for help with illness, aches and pains and acupuncture is suitable for all ages. Treatment is focussed on the whole body and can be used alongside conventional medicine, whilst others choose acupuncture to keep the body balanced and enjoy the feeling of well being it can bring. Corinne Alexander runs an Acupuncture Clinic in Peterborough. She offers a free 15 minute consultation before treatment to discuss specific needs. A first session takes about 90 minutes, and follow on treatments run for around 45 minutes. For more information contact Corinne, Jade Acupuncture, DHC Business Centre, 226 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough,PE1 3PB Tel: 07737 172939, e-mail: corinnne@jadeacupuncture.co.uk www.jadeacupuncture.co.uk

Attention, men!

Pure Health and Beauty, at Glapthorn, has Christmas gift vouchers available. These can be bought over the phone and the salon will send these out and they can be left open for the recipient to choose from a wide range of treatments. Packages are available from £55, and include a Party Package, with a half set of eyelash extensions, and gel, file and paint, to a ten session course of Caci Anti-Ageing Facial treatments at £450. Gifts are also available in the salon to suit all budgets and include Eve Taylor Aromatherapy Candles, bath oil and shower gel, make up gift sets, and Jessica nail polishes. Contact: Pure Health and Beauty, Church Farm, Main Street, Glapthorn, Peterborough, PE8 5BE Tel: 01832 272310 or 07807 879459. E-mail: pure@farming.co.uk

Personalised pilates Prestons Physiotherapy Clinic offer Pilates in both group and one to one sessions run by a Chartered Physiotherapist. The idea of a personal session is that the instructors can understand and work with an individual’s specific problems. Patients with musculoskeletal issues, such as back and neck pain, postural aches and pains, and biomechanical issues can learn to manage their problem and work on strengthening, posture improvement, core muscle control and stress relief under the careful watch of a trained physiotherapist. I was invited along for a one to one session with Bethany. Firstly, I was asked to complete a form about any problem areas, and then Bethany made notes on my posture, flexibility and core strength, looking for areas that I needed to address. We then moved into a large, well equipped studio area and Bethany showed me some balancing exercises which are good for core strength, and showed me how to improve and get more out of the exercise. The session was excellent and the feedback was very helpful in getting the technique right. A one to one session is £45, and a group session runs with a maximum of eight participants. The classes cost £60 for a block of six, or £12 if booked individually. Further information is on the Prestons website, www.prestonsphysio.com Prestons Physiotherapy Clinic, 29 Alexandra Road, Peterborough Tel: 01733 565911

Gifts to make you feel great

The Grange Spa in Pointon, near Bourne, Lincolnshire has a range of Thalgo Aromotherapy gift sets available in the Spa Shop, beautifully packaged and suitable for men and women. They’ll stimulate the senses with fabulous aromas. Prices start at £15. Fore more information on The Spa and gift ideas, contact The Grange Spa, Millthorpe Road, Pointon, Lincolnshire, NG34 ONF Tel: 01778 440511 www.thegrangespa.co.uk

Christmas treats at Elysia

Make time for you this Christmas so that you’re glowing for the party season. Elysia are offering special packages on all courses of non-surgical Face Lift, Microdermabrasion and laser treatments throughout December and January as well as offers on Geleration Nails and Christmas makeovers. Elysia Health and Beauty, Fortheringhay Road, Tansor, www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com Tel: 01832 226328

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMber 2011

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Crackers of Oundle 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

Eve

Stu-Pots

36 Market Place Oundle 01832 275414

Lingerie – Swimwear Accessories

Lingerie from A-K cups Professional Fitting Service Freya, Fantasie, Elle MacPherson, Wolford, Calvin Klein, Fauve, Pleasure State, Triumph,Marlies Dekkers, Royce, Elomi, Pure Lime, I’Coloniali

01832 273969

The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EJ

Look for the Cooks Companion Leaflet coming through your door

Sodastream stockist Council approved bio-degradable bags in stock

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

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. Need a Christmas Gift? Then come & see us - in addition to books we stock language, audio & classical music CD’s, bookmarks, magnifiers, giftwrap and some fabulous, original gift items! Special Offer We are offering a large range of popular paperbacks (including the current top 10 best sellers) with a voucher which entitles you to 20% off any hardback (in stock or to order).

13 Market Place, Oundle. T: 01832 273523 E: oundlebookshop@colemangroup.co.uk 22

• NVL December ADS.indd 22

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SHOPPING

My perfect gift Local independent retailers select great ideas for Christmas presents. Compiled by Fiona Cumberpatch

Ladies’ sheepskin flying jacket, £399

Ashleigh and Burwood Fragrance Lamp £31.50 for a gift set

Joel Lewis, Peterborough Designer Leathers, Peterborough “You can’t go wrong with our classic ladies’ sheepskin flying jacket. It is a classic addition to any wardrobe and it never dates, and just get better with age. You will get a lifetime’s wear out of one of these.” 8 Queens St, Peterborough Tel: 01733 348917 www.designerleathers.co.uk

Penny Brown, Reba, Peterborough “I’ve chosen these Ashleigh and Burwood Fragrance Lamps, which are a great gift for any age group. Not only are they nicely decorative, they work incredibly well, perfuming the whole house, removing cooking smells within 30 minutes and destroying harmful bacteria. They work using a catalytic stone. Once the stone is heated, it draws up the fragrance and releases it into the air. Each lamp comes with a little silver snuffer, which you use when you want to stop the scent. Here in the shop, we love them so much that we’ve all bought one!” Reba, Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH Tel: 01733 319606 www.rebaboutique.co.uk

Long case clocks, from £4,000 £6,000. Japanese writing box, £625. NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

23 24 PERFECT GIFT_DC.indd 1

Continued on page 24 ▲

Jo Ellwood, Green Man Antiques and Restoration, Oundle “I have two choices. This green lacquer long case clock is an investment piece. It is very special because it is locally made by Robert Watts of Stamford. His work dates to around 1730. It has chinoiserie painted on a pine case and is classic and beautiful. All our clocks are guaranteed for three years, and we deliver them and set them up for you. As well as the antiques shop here in West Street, Oundle, we have a clock shop across the road, where we specialise in locally made clocks and barometers, as well as a specialist restoration service. My other choice is this lovely late Victorian Japanese writing box with seven drawers. It is made from parquetry inlay, and it converts into a little desk. It is delightful, and could be used as a jewellery box or a collector’s chest.” Green Man Antiques and Restoration, 74 West St, Oundle, PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 270970 Oundle Clock Shop (opposite the Antiques shop) Tel: 01832 272099

18/11/11 10:49:19

SHOPPING

IceToolz Kit, £49.95

Basil Bag, £49.99

Sheena and David Coxhead, Bristows Cycles, Peterborough “We sell all kinds of accessories: gloves, base layers, helmets, saddles, cycle shoes and sunglasses. But this ladies’ bag by Basil is a great gift choice as it is so practical, stylish and roomy. You put it on your bike and it comes off easily after your journey and you can carry it around like a regular bag. I’d recommend a cycle tool set. Our kit by IceToolz is great, because it comes at a reasonable price and is good quality. It’s a great starter kit, and perfect for hard-to-buy-for men!” Bristows Cycles, 46 Church Drive, Orton Waterville, Peterborough PE2 5HE Tel: 01733 231755

Ruby Loves (above) Lysgaard Danish Cardigan. £76. “Fabulous colour, classic yet contemporary.” Jodie, manager Ruby Loves, 3&4 Stamford Walk, PE9 2JE Tel: 01780 76462 NGI Design (right) Punkt ‘phone and clock, designed by Jasper Morrison. £159 (‘phone), £89 (clock) “Add a touch of class to everyday objects.” Darren, co-owner NGI Design, 4 - 6 High Street, St Martins, PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 766899

Man Tin, £6.50. Come Here Mr Cake tin, £13.99. Rag doll, £11.99 Judy Hibbins, Crackers, Oundle It’s difficult to choose a favourite as we have some wonderful ideas this Christmas, including musical crackers! But I do like the Man Tin, which people are buying to fill with gifts. Hampers are a bit old hat but we like these ‘Come here, Mr Cake, Come to Mummy’ tins, which are witty, and large enough to fill with lots of mince pies for Christmas. As for the rag doll, she’s a classic gift at a really good price.” Crackers of Oundle, 3 New St, Oundle PE8 4EA Tel: 01832 274467

Seasalt hat, £19. Scarf, £39.95 Katie Baranyovits, Harvey Tweel, Oundle “This Seasalt hat and scarf are really fun. I just love the scarf with its attached glove! Seasalt have some great winter accessories, of which we have a good range. We’ll be stocking lots of gift ideas for men, with country clothing, shooting socks, gloves and more.” Harvey Tweel, Unit 1, The Bazaar, West St, Oundle PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 272444

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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18/11/11 10:49:45

Designer Leathers Men and Women’s Country Clothing & Accessories

Established Family Business since 1987

R M Williams •Katie Mosa Ness • Le Chameau Lyn Antley • Seasalt • Barbour Really Wild Open Monday to Saturday 9:00am till 5:30pm

www.harveytweel.co.uk Unit 1 The Bazaar West Street Oundle PE8 4EJ - 01832 272444

Foxtail Lilly Visit our extra `pop up` Christmas barn shop wreaths, decorations, gifts and fresh flowers 0pen Wed – Sat - 10am till 5pm 41, South Road, Oundle

01832274593

www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk

The only independant leather shop for Peterborough and surrounding areas. New designs in for A/W 2011. Fantastic range of bags, stockists of Fossil, Kipling and Radley. Leather and sheepskin gloves and slippers. We pride ourselves on our customer service.

8 Queens Street / Peterborough

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FOOD NEWS

The new STAMFORD eateries Amanda Wheeler has been trying out Stamford’s latest and largest hostelries

t’s been an exciting month in Stamford: two new openings in the Sheepmarket quarter have set the town a-talking. For much of 2011, the area has been a building site as the long-closed London Inn and the former Post Office sorting room both underwent serious renovation. The work has been worth it, as the two places look incredible both inside and out. Within days of each other, these near neighbours opened their doors and the crowds rushed in. Initial feedback had a common theme – the sheer number of Stamfordians eager to try the latest hotspots led to food running out (at the London Inn) and long waits for service (at the Cosy Club). But two weeks on and they’re both still packed to the rafters, so it looks like the early hiccups are being resolved.

London Inn The first one up for review is the London Inn. Unrecognisable from its previous incarnation with a warm interior, soft-furnishings aplenty, and seriously comfy seating, this pub has gone decidedly upmarket, but the price of its food is strictly value. Two meals for a tenner is the perfect deal for these difficult times and the food was remarkably tasty. My long-divorced parents saw eye-to-eye for once and opted for the same dish – fish and chips. I love fish and chips but darn it, I’ve got a Christmas dress to squeeze into, so I went for the chicken and smoky bacon salad: fresh, generous and far more satisfying than I’d anticipated. Luckily my parents’ appetites fell short of the portioning, so I valiantly offered to finish their plates for them. I’m fussy about my fish and chips, but this was a hit with all three of us. My husband’s burger (£8 with a pint) was quickly polished off, although it didn’t quite make

his burger top ten (at present, the only local entry is from The Olive Branch). The service was warm and friendly, the manager cheerful and hard-working, and the food order to arrival an impressive 12 minutes. The menu is vast and available all day every day, with a roast for £7.95 on a Sunday. The kids are catered for too, although the kids’ menu was still being printed. There’s a heated patio area, live music on the weekends, big screen TVs for the footie and other special events planned. No doubt about it, the London Inn is going to be a hit. The London Inn 4 St John’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DB 01780 754919 Open: 11 am to 12:00 am; food served 11 am to 9 pm (8:30 pm Friday and Saturday) Prices: £8 for a burger and pint (or wine or soft drink); 2 meals for £10; Sunday roast £7.95 (£5.00 after 5:00 pm); all day brunch £6.75; sandwiches from £5.25; puddings all £2.75

Next up… the Cosy Club… can’t wait!

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News from Oundle Mill Food photography by David Corﬁeld - www.davidcorﬁeld.com

Discover great food at Oundle Mill

Oundle Mill, since its re-furbishment four years ago, has established itself as one of the best places to eat in the region, combining great food with a unique ambience created by its lovely setting by the River Nene, the historic fabric of the mill and the stunning ‘rustic chic’ interior. And it was voted Restaurant of the Year at the 2010/11 Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards.

New Head Chef

To continue along its track of culinary success, Oundle Mill has recently appointed a new head chef, Gavin Austin, to further develop the Mill’s fabulous food reputation. Gavin brings a wealth of food experience with him. He began his career at The Hoste Arms in Burnham Market, before progressing to London where he worked at the Michelin-starred Chez Nico, L’Escargot and the opening of the St Pancras Grand.

The new style of cooking How would Gavin describe his style of cooking? “Simple things done really well using locally sourced great quality ingredients. I am very passionate about food and use many different cooking techniques, but I am a great believer in simplicity and the end result being delicious and ‘unfussy’ – I don’t try and use too many ingredients in one dish. I am not interested in using a cooking technique just for its effect, but rather for its potential to add something significant to the dish.” Gavin has worked both in a fine dining and gastro-pub environment. Which does he prefer? “I like elements of both; in the new menu I combine elements of both gastro- pub classics and fine dining, but with an overall emphasis on deliciousness and informality.”

conﬁt root vegetables, with Cabernet Sauvignon sauce; or Steamed plaice, herb spaetzle, North Atlantic prawns with lemongrass nâge. Sunday lunch menu. Great starters, classic roasts and truly indulgent desserts - 2 Courses £20.50, 3 Courses £25.50 As well as the daily menu for lunch and dinner there is now also a Bar Menu for ‘quick bites’, available at lunchtime. • Find the menus in full at www.oundlemill.co.uk. There is a children’s menu too.

Dine for ½ price on Mondays in December and January. A great chance to try out the new menu. This offer is available throughout December 2011 and January 2012, exc. Dec 26th.

Christmas and New Year’s Eve The atmosphere at the Mill over the festive season is a delight with a stylish yet relaxed and fun Christmas party atmosphere. The quality of cooking and service means that these special occasion meals are a real experience. Christmas parties, 3 courses £29.50 Christmas Day lunch, four choices for each course, £70 New Year’s Eve. The evening kicks off with sparkling wine and nibbles. Then enjoy a menu full of exquisite ﬂavours and indulgent tastes, dancing to a live band and of course a champagne toast to welcome in the New Year. £90. All the menus can be looked at in detail online at www.oundlemill. co.uk

New Menus

The new menus are designed so that there is something for every occasion and mood, from the more adventurous to the tried and trusted favourites. Affordability is also key - a meal for two will cost no more than in a good local pub, but uses top quality, locally-sourced ingredients cooked by a very talented team. Starters range from classic favourites e.g. North Atlantic prawns with cocktail sauce or Brancaster mussels with cider and parsley-fried bread – to more adventurous selections e.g. Tempura black pudding, hen’s egg, crisp shallots, bacon, devilled sauce; or Soused and grilled mackerel, with apple, ginger and micro coriander. Mains include Seven Wells rib eye steak and Fish & Chips with mushy peas, lemon, tartare sauce; but also Denham Estate venison, turnip purée,

For more information, or to book: Oundle Mill, Barnwell Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 5PB

Tel: (01832) 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk

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PERSPECTIVES

BEST brew

Oakham Ales is a local success story and Paul Hook is the man the man behind the Woodston brewery. Words and pictures: Dave Phillips

or many people, happiness means a pint of real ale. And if you’re one of them, Paul Hook has probably made you very happy indeed, for this is the man that brought you Charters (the floating pub by Peterborough’s town bridge), the Brewery Tap (the city’s first brew pub) and the award-winning Oakham Ales brewery. Today, Oakham Ales is one of the best-known small breweries in the country, thanks to its fine brews like the legendary JHB (Jeffrey Hudson Bitter), which was crowned Champion Beer of Britain in 2001. “JHB certainly put us on the map,” says Paul. But a lot of water has flowed down the Nene past Charters in the decade since then. When Oakham Ales was founded in 1994, it brewed 10 barrels of beer a week. These days, it produces up to 500 barrels a week and employs 20 people.

Small beginnings

another real ale fan, John Wood. “He used to deliver our barrels from the back of his Citroen estate car,” recalls Paul. “He was a lovely man who made lovely beer.” A few years later, when Paul and his business partner John Bryan decided to open a brew pub in Peterborough’s former employment exchange at 80 Westgate, they invited John Wood to join the business, but instead he decided to sell Oakham Ales to them. The Brewery Tap opened in 1998, with brewing going on behind a huge glass wall facing the public bar. “We thought we had the capacity there for a long time to come. It was much larger than the old premises in Rutland, but soon demand was outstripping supply again,” says Paul. At the same time, the Brewery Tap was threatened with demolition to make way for the new North Westgate development, so Paul and John decided to build a new brewery at Maxwell Road, Woodston, which opened in 2006.

A new approach This success was in large part due to the company’s innovative approach to brewing. Exciting new yeast varieties were imported NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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Continued on page 32 ▲

It all started on the River Nene in 1985 when Paul set up the Key Ferry boat service from Peterborough’s Embankment, taking parties along the river to Ferry Meadows or the Dog in a Doublet sluice. “That’s how I got into the hospitality industry,” recalls Paul. “Then over a

pint one night I had a great idea – why not get a bigger boat, permanently moored, from which I could sell food and drink…” In 1990, after six weeks on the continent, searching for the right vessel, in Holland Paul found the Leendert-R, a big Dutch barge built in 1907 for carrying grain and coal along the River Rhine. Although it was built for inland waterways, he sailed it across the North Sea to the estuary of the River Nene at Sutton Bridge and steered the 176ft vessel upstream to Peterborough and its final resting place by the town bridge. The first job was to empty 150 tons of sand from the barge’s holds, which had acted as ballast for the sea journey. “It went to create the bunkers on Thorney golf course,” says Paul. When Charter’s opened to the public in 1991, there were eight real ales on tap. Says Paul: “I’d told my bank manager that it would take four months to get the business up and running, but within three days we were mobbed and that’s how it stayed. It seems Peterborough’s drinkers wanted real ale too…” By 1994, among the ales sold at Charters were beers from a new micro-brewery, Oakham Ales, which had been founded in Rutland by

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PERSPECTIVES

Oakham Ales produces five permanent ales – JHB, Inferno, Citra, White Dwarf and Bishop’s Farewell – the latter named after the much-missed former Bishop of Peterborough, Bill Westwood from the USA and Oakham Ales became famous for a new generation of light, zesty beers that were far removed from many of the heavy, malty brews of yesteryear – and encouraged a new generation of beer drinkers raised on lager to switch to real ales. This approach was epitomised by the legendary JHB, which won awards at beer festivals all over the country – including of course the biggest award of all, Champion Beer of Britain, in 2001 (it was named after the pintsized Jeffrey Hudson, an 18-inch-tall man who was born in Oakham in 1619 and became court jester to the ill-fated King Charles I. After the king lost the English Civil War, Hudson fled to France with the king’s widow, Queen Henrietta Maria, but was expelled from her court when he killed a man in a duel! He was later captured and enslaved by pirates before returning to England, where he died in 1682.) These days, Oakham Ales produces five permanent ales – JHB, Inferno, Citra, White Dwarf and Bishop’s Farewell – the latter named after the much-missed former Bishop of Peterborough, Bill Westwood. There are also seasonal and special brews, some of which are exclusive to the 200 pubs that have become members of the “Oakademy of Excellence” which, as Paul explains, is bestowed upon inns that serve Oakham Ales to perfection.

Here’s to the future These days, the company is a far cry from its early beginnings. Two years ago, Adrian Posnett was appointed managing director to bring his sales and marketing expertise to the business, and demand has continued to grow at between 25 to 30 per cent, every year. The company recently doubled the size of its Woodston site by taking on the empty warehouse next door. But there is no danger of Oakham Ales becoming a brewing giant and losing its identity, as Paul explains: “We are still a tiddler. We make as much beer in a year as Carlsberg waste when they clean their tanks! Probably! But we have got great products and, with the help of our team, are getting them into the market place, with new products coming through all the time. Every day here is very exciting. “But above all, I would like to stress that Oakham Ales’ success has been down to a passionate team of people who care about the quality of real ale that they produce and sell... and also drink, in moderation of course!”

John Bryam at work in the brewery

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PERSPECTIVES

Reaching out Peterborough Cathedral has worship at its heart but some of the city’s best events have taken place there this year. Sue Dobson takes a look at how the historic doors are opening to change

eterborough Cathedral probably isn’t the first venue that comes to mind for a concert by the contemporary folk-rock singer/ songwriter Seth Lakeman, or the filming of the popular BBC2 antiques programme Flog It!, but events like these are part of a plan to make the Cathedral more accessible and inclusive for the local community. “The building has been standing for almost 900 years, it’s at the very heart of the city, everyone in Peterborough knows it’s there but seldom visit, which is a pity because it has so much to offer,” says Sarah McGhie, the Cathedral’s Development Officer. “You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the architecture, history and heritage and the sheer majesty of the building and its superb acoustics make it perfect for concerts.”

Traditional concertgoers will know what she means. There’s nothing like hearing the voices of a fine choir or soloist soaring to the cathedral’s unique 13th-century painted ceiling and enveloping the listener in perfect sound. It’s an experience that a new generation of music lovers discovered at a concert by the acoustic roots duo Show of Hands last year, while the audience at Seth Lakeman’s infectiously energetic Hearts and Minds concert in May were bowled over by the music, the sound and the evocative lighting. Peterborough Evening Telegraph described the event as ‘one of the best gigs that Peterborough has hosted in some time’. “Peterborough Cathedral is a place of worship and nothing must interfere with its daily rhythm of services, but three or four unexpected events a year, whether it’s theatre, music or an art exhibition, open it up to new audiences who discover it really has the ‘wow’ factor,” Sarah continues.

A breakthrough year Concerts, festivals and a few surprises made 2011 a year of innovation for the city’s iconic

landmark. It began in fine style at the end of January when The Sixteen, considered one of the world’s greatest choral and period instrument ensembles, created a unique concert for the Katharine of Aragon Festival. To commemorate the life of Henry VIII’s first wife, who in 1536 found her final resting place in Peterborough Cathedral, the concert featured music Katharine would have heard at court, including a piece reputedly written for her by Henry VIII. It put the final exciting touch to a day of Tudor Living History held in the Cathedral and its grounds. Come June, the Cathedral, its precincts and gardens were invaded by encampments of costumed history re-enactors, musicians, storytellers and craftspeople when it hosted

the Peterborough Festival’s Heritage Weekend, which delivered ‘2000 years of history brought to life in one weekend’ and welcomed 20,000 visitors. News of a talk by historian and broadcaster Dr David Starkey on the six wives of Henry VIII resulted in a stampede for tickets. “The Cathedral setting was ideal for Dr Starkey, who enjoyed speaking, as he put it, ‘in the shadow of Katharine of Aragon’s tomb’,” says Sarah. “When we booked him we had no idea there would be a Royal Wedding in April, and he delighted his audience by relating events from the Tudor period to our modern royal family and politics.” That wedding was the occasion of the Cathedral’s first live broadcast presentation, which gave a real sense of occasion to the

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hundreds of patriotic locals who packed the pews to follow the ceremony on a giant screen and join in the hymns. There was a treat for silent film fans when, as part of the Oundle International Festival in July, a twilight showing of the classic 1923 version of The Hunchback of Notre Dame was accompanied by Martin Baker improvising on the cathedral’s magnificent Hill organ. Making their first visit to Peterborough, the Malcolm Sargent Festival Choir commemorated 100 years since Sir Malcolm started his career as an organist at the Cathedral. In October, Eastern Angles Theatre Company presented a 30-minute play set in Peterborough and there are plans afoot to work with the Key Youth Theatre. “Everything that takes place in the Cathedral has to meet a level of excellence,” Sarah says. “We’re working on a major arts event during May and June next year and have just had a site visit by a theatre company that hopefully will be part of the 2012 Peterborough Festival, for which we’re planning some exciting contemporary events.” As well as the high profile events, there are regular talks and concerts that more and more people are discovering, like the lunchtime music recitals in summer and Wednesdays at One, a seasonal series of half-hour addresses by interesting speakers that are followed by a light lunch of homemade soup and sandwiches. A look at the Cathedral’s revamped website reveals a host of things you might not know about, like the facilities for meetings and conferences, private celebrations, company dinners and bespoke corporate events. “We have five stunning venues available for private hire,” Sarah tells me, “including the beautiful Becket Chapel, which was the original site of the King’s School that Henry VIII founded, and the gorgeous 2.5acre Deanery Gardens that are perfect for summer balls and wedding receptions.”

Peterborough 900 In 2018 it will be 900 years since building work began on the great Norman Abbey that is Peterborough Cathedral. To celebrate this momentous anniversary, the Peterborough 900 Development Campaign, launched this year, aims to secure £10million to fund a centre of Christian study, a music education centre and invest in a future of community “education, outreach, hospitality and worship that is right for the modern world, but which has its roots securely anchored in our historic heritage.”

What’s on this Christmas

Thurs 1 at 7pm World AIDS Day Service Sat 3 at 11am Sound Therapy Workshop (register at www.greeniversity.org.uk) Wed 7 at 1pm Talk on Faith and Homelessness by Ed Walker, director of Hope into Action Sat 10 at 3pm Christingle Service: for young children and families, with seasonal readings, carols and music performed by local school children Mon 12 at 12noon Pre-school Christmas Nativity Service: the story of the Nativity told by young children using theatre and singing, with audience participation Fri 16 at 7.30pm Peterborough Cathedral Christmas Concert: The Peterborough Cathedral Choir and Festival Chorus with Charivari Agréable sing traditional carols and feature Vivaldi’s Gloria and Magnificat by Pergolesi (tickets available from the Peterborough Destination Centre) Sat 17 at 7.30pm Christmas Magic: Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Youth Choir and Peterborough Voices – a massed choir of over 200 voices, special guests and full symphony orchestra perform festive favourites (tickets from www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk) Sat 24 Christmas Eve Services: 4pm Service of readings and carols; 8pm Bethlehem Now! Carols with the Salvation Army Band of Peterborough; 11.30pm Midnight Eucharist Sunday 25 Christmas Day Services: 8am Holy Communion; 10am Choral Matins; 11am Sung Eucharist of Christmas Day; 3.30pm Festival Evensong and Procession Mon 26 Boxing Day Cathedral closed Sat 31 at 6.30pm New Year’s Eve Hope for Peterborough interdenominational service. • For more information visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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PEOPLE

The golden touch Olympic champion and Dancing on Ice star Robin Cousins created Tropicana, the spectacular Holiday on Ice Show which comes to Peterborough Exec from February 2nd-5th. Linda Lin met him

Well, a bolero is a style of music that happens to have the name of a particular song that is famous and a lot of people have skated to in the UK because of Jayne (Torvill) and Chris (Dean). But Holiday on Ice have had a bolero in their repertoire since 1940s or ‘50s. It was first created as a full-scale ballet for the ice and we re-introduced it in the early 1990s. In doing the research with Barry, I came across this bolero that he had written for the stage version of Copacabana, and I thought, this could really work as a principle number with a bit of fun. The bolero beat just works for dance so well. And the version that Barry wrote is glorious and the vocal is great on it. To be able to put a symphony orchestra on it with Tim’s great voice is wonderful. Speaking of Torvill and Dean, what can you say about the next series of Dancing On Ice? From what I understand, the show will remain as it did last season. But I won’t be personally involved until the week we air in January.

Where did you get your inspiration to create Tropicana, your new Holiday on Ice show? When I was still working Stateside, I did a series of television shows called ‘StarSkates: Tribute To…,’ which I co-produced, and we did one with Barry Manilow’s music. He was going to be in Vegas when we recorded the show as a guest of honour. By the time we got to show time, he ended up singing our entire finale! So when I had the opportunity from Holiday on Ice to create another show, I thought it would be fun to be able to take his music and re-orchestrate it. Will yours be among the voices we’ll be hearing? No. I did a couple of demos and I might well be going into the studios to add a track for the UK tour. But I’m more than happy with the voices we have. Barry has a very specific voice - in some cases the recordings are actually better, because the song takes on a meaning of what the lyric is about or what it’s musically about. There are a couple of pieces where it’s the song that is the star, and not necessarily who was singing it. One of the voices that we have is Tim Howar. He’s done Rent in New York and he’s about to become the new voice of Mike and the Mechanics. Tropicana features a bolero that will open some eyes. How did this piece come about?

WIN! WIN! WIN!

A Family Ticket worth up to £128, to see the Holiday On Ice Gala Night Show at Peterborough Exec at 7pm on February 2nd 2012 Sensuous, extravagant and highly charged, Tropicana has a cast of 40 world class skaters seamlessly gliding through smouldering boleros, sultry Latin rhythms, Big Band and Rock’n’Roll. With an original musical score, and amazing costumes, it features interpretations of some of the best loved songs from Barry Manilow, and it promises to be one of the most thrilling ice spectaculars you’ll ever see. To enter, visit www.bestlocalliving.co.uk and answer this question: Who provided the musical inspiration for Tropicana? a) Barry Manilow b) Noel Gallagher c) Phil Collins Closing date: January 2nd 2012

You have been touring with Grease: The Musical since May. Do you plan to continue? The Grease tour runs until May 2012, but I will finish after the Birmingham engagement ends New Year’s Eve. However, I’ve had a great time with the show and having extended and added dates twice now I won’t say I wouldn’t do more. We’ll see how things go. What are some of the projects your Cousins Entertainment company is involved in? With our Winter ice installations we have eight rinks on seven sites in the UK this season. We continue our association with ITV and will supply both training rink and main studio rink in Elstree for Dancing On Ice and we supplied ice for the feature film, Anna Karenina, which was shot in Shepperton. What’s next for Robin Cousins? I’ve started a production company for theatrical events, not necessarily just for me to do, but for me to produce and get involved with, because that’s a passion for me. We have the rights for two productions, one of which is very big; the other’s a two-hander – a book that you probably have read - so it’s quite exciting. You take the skates off, and the product is exactly the same; the process is the same. I’ve been doing that for 40 years now, so why shouldn’t I enjoy trying to do it in another direction? Will you be coming to Peterborough soon? I have been to the rink but never really skated there. (This year) the plan is to be at all four opening gala nights, including the one in Peterborough

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17/11/11 11:38:56

Local resident Lindy Rudd takes part in a photo shoot with a difference

“So there I am in this field, with no clothes on…” N

o, it’s not the start of a Tommy Cooper joke. I’m actually outdoors and completely naked. “Arms out and arch your back,” shouts Lisa, the photographer. Well that’s the last thing I want to do. I want to wrap my arms firmly wrapped around my chest. I want to curl comfortably into the foetal position. I want this to be over. Earlier, I’d avoided wearing tight clothing that would leave any marks on my insipidly white torso, so when the first arrival, Ros, rang the doorbell, I was only wearing a long cardigan. “I feel preposterous,” I told her, and the peals of mirth that followed confirmed I was right. Next came Lisa who may have offered some comfort, had she not developed an affliction that caused her to laugh raucously at my legs. But worse was to come. “These are the poses I’ve got in mind,” she stated, handing me some pictures. There were several things that troubled me here. First of all: posing. I’d imagined just being present was adequate. Secondly, there were no props to hide behind and I’d seen myself more as an addition to a scene. Finally: horseback! And, of course, lacking any clothing. Well, I do have a horse. So there I am, in this field... It was a beautiful day, but I wasn’t paying much attention to the weather. If I’d felt ridiculous in my cardigan, there isn’t a word to describe how it felt to disrobe and attempt to mount a horse. Ros tried to give me a leg up. It ended with something akin to a collapsed scrum. “I can’t do it,” she explained earnestly, insinuating that being in close proximity to my naked behind was somehow an unpleasant experience. Lisa stepped up to the task. I ended up on the horse, fighting to keep my balance and maintain some dignity. Actually, that last bit’s not true. Me and dignity? We’re now estranged. It was eventually at an end. The relief! I was to be reunited with my clothes. I tried desperately to attract some attention as I couldn’t get to my trusty cardigan; I was surrounded by thistles. However, the others appeared to be admiring the firmament. “Help! PLEASE can I have my clothes back?” I agree, though: it was a lovely sky. So what were we doing? It’s true that we’re all friends and drink in the same pub (which is where it all started, as a joke) but there’s something else we share. It’s the thing that nobody likes to talk about. It’s cancer. I first felt the effects of this awful disease when I was in my 20s, losing my only uncle. More recently, on Christmas Day 2010, my friend Hilary died. Clever Hilary, who was one of the first females to study engineering at Oxford. Kind Hilary, who gave of her time to help others. Wife and mother Hilary, who left behind a beautiful three year-old daughter and a heartbroken husband. Then, in June, the loss of another friend, after a courageous battle that had lasted for years. All too young. Some of our group have battled cancer themselves, having to confront situations that go beyond their coping resources. They’ve had to deal with shock and fear as well as physical trauma. But they’ve got through it and deserve to celebrate that. So that’s why I was there, in that field. We’re Calendar Girls! Someone asked me if it wasn’t a bit old hat. Yes, possibly. But cancer is old hat and I spent the afternoon with some ladies who don’t want to hear about it ever again. We don’t have the cure, but we did something in the hope that our efforts will go towards helping those who still face the fight.

• If you want to help too, you can donate to our chosen charity, Cancer Research UK, and find out where the calendars are on sale at http://www.justgiving.com/PolebrookLadies or you can order a copy by emailing polebrookcalendar2012@yahoo.com, leaving your name and contact info. Failing that, we’ll be in the pub. Just mind what you say in jest...

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01832 272 363 www.thekingsarmspolebrook.co.uk

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU

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

Roasted root vegetable and sweet potato soup Devilled lambs kidneys on toast

Potted kipper and crab with samphire

Grilled smoked camembert with walnut relish, apple and celery

Sliced salt beef, potato and horseradish salad ••• Rolled turkey escalope, wild boar stuffing, smoked bacon and cranberry confit

Roast breast of pheasant with sage and onion stuffing, apple and black pudding

Rolled beef brisket with wild mushrooms and rich Guinness gravy

Grilled haddock fillet with mussels, cream caper and samphire sauce

Roasted butternut squash, mushroom risotto and toasted camembert

••• Christmas pudding with egg nog custard

Rich chocolate pot with chestnut puree and caramelised hazelnuts

Local quince in syrup with Pannacotta

Sticky stem ginger pudding with custard Cheese board with pickled figs

2 courses £16

3 courses £19.50

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During the Christmas season we will also be serving our traditional Paella and Also

A seasonal special of Chicken & Blackforest

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

Telephone 01733 342888 www.manorwindows.net

Ham Tartiflette with Pickled salad £75 For 8 people

••••••••••••••••••••••••••• TO GET ON OUR MAILING LIST AND HEAR ABOUT SPECIAL EVENTS

PLEASE E-MAIL US A

REQUEST

• NVL December ADS.indd 39

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MARSHALL VOLVO OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS STANDARD. Our highly trained and skilled team looks forward to welcoming you to our state of the art dealership, where we will be on hand to look after your every need. All our cars are handled with the utmost care and attention as we pride ourselves on offering the best deals on the latest range of New Volvo and piece of mind on quality approved used vehicles. From the new Volvo range, to Approved used vehicles right through to service and repairs, visit Marshall Volvo and expect nothing less than a first class service as standard.

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Volvo. For life.

MARSHALL VOLVO PETERBOROUGH 7 MALLORY ROAD, BOONGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5AU. TEL: 0844 411 9751 www.marshallweb.co.uk/volvo MARSHALL MOTOR GROUP LTD. REGISTERED OFFICE:- AIRPORT HOUSE, THE AIRPORT, CAMBRIDGE CB5 8RY. ALL CALLS MAY BE RECORDED FOR TRAINING AND QUALITY PURPOSES.

THIS IS MARSHALL JAGUAR

Situated in Peterborough, our dealership is equipped to deal with all your Jaguar needs. From the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them. Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Peterborough. MARSHALL JAGUAR PETERBOROUGH 7 Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU 0844 334 0635 www.marshall.peterborough.jaguar.co.uk

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

â&#x20AC;˘ NVL December ADS.indd 40

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MOTORING

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS Marshall Volvo is refreshingly free of pushy salesmen and instead welcomes a more ‘lifestyle’ approach to buying a car. Words and pics: David Corfield

ar manufacturers are obsessed with numbers. If they’re not emblazoned on the boot, they’re churned out in press releases; the smaller the number the more environmentally friendly the car. The bigger the digit, the quicker you’re likely to lose your license. Sales patter thus: “Zero emissions, 1000bhp and you can go from 0-60 in two seconds, sir.” You get the picture… Fortunately, with a Volvo, there is no such flannel or persuasive trollocks to boggle the brain. And what you get at Marshall Volvo, one of the marque’s biggest UK dealerships with an investment of £9million into very impressive premises (numbers again, sorry) is nothing short of miraculous. I met up with Dealer Principal Daniel Cooper to learn more about one of the safest brands on our roads. Daniel came from the Marshall’s Jaguar dealership next door and looks after both the Cambridge and Peterborough Volvo businesses. That’s quite a big patch, but it’s a job he relishes chiefly because he genuinely believes in the brand. “I’ve got a great team of people working with me and together we all share the brand love,” he enthuses. “We punch well above our weight in what is a very competitive area for car manufacturers. In terms of selling Volvos, Peterborough is one of our best areas, but it’s also a hard one chiefly because of the other brands that we compete against.” Daniel has an advantage though, because he’s a local lad and makes every effort to get to know and understand his customer. “I’ve been with Marshall for 20 years now, the majority of that time based here in Peterborough, so I know the place well and especially the kind of cars that appeal to the

families in the area. We have a great range of cars and have sought to bring that lifestyle message Volvo is famous for right here into the dealership.” Working with the Tallington Lakes outdoor centre, Daniel can sell you a mountain bike, a canoe, a jetski or even a snowboard to further compliment your active life. Personally, I’d settle for a seatwarmer… “Volvo customers of old were largely from the agricultural world (think affluent, nononsense farmers) but now we are seeing a definite shift towards professional customers, who perhaps are seeking an alternative to an Audi. We are always looking to move forward and focus on what’s new and reflective of our customer’s lifestyle. If we’d stuck with our customers of old we wouldn’t have any left – they’d all be dead!” Daniel’s refreshingly honest approach is engaging. “We have some amazing cars now in our line up and my business sales manager Ross Johnson is offering some great deals with fleet customers, sole traders and SMEs too. We have a car for everyone here and I’m determined to get the Volvo message out across the fens and get people in to have a look at what we can offer.” Volvo recently took Daniel, along with a select group of Dealer Principals, to its factory in Sweden to sample some of its future models. “I was very privileged to see a new 5-door family car, still in its glass-fibre mock up state, emerge from the factory and it filled me with enthusiasm for the future. I cannot wait to get that car in the showroom next year as I know it will really excite my customers.” There’s clearly a lot to be passionate about at Marshall and along with expansion plans or

the business side (the dealership has a 26 bay workshop out the back for fleet customers) Daniel is very focused on the future, and wants you to be a part of it with him!

CONTACT

Marshall Volvo, Volvo House, Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5AU, Tel: 0844 243 4984 www.marshallweb.co.uk/volvo/peterborough/

A BRIEF HISTORY OF VOLVO

The Volvo company was started in 1927 as a child company to the Swedish ball-bearing manufacturer Svenska Kullagerfabriken AB. It was originally intended to make ball-bearings, but switched to producing vehicles in April of the same year. In 1970, Volvo bought a Dutch car company called DAF so that they could also produce small cars in the Netherlands as well as continue exporting vehicles to the United States. In the early 1990s, Volvo split into two different companies called Volvo Group, which makes large commercial vehicles, and Volvo Cars, which makes smaller passenger vehicles. Volvo Cars was purchased by Ford Motors in 1998. Most of the models built by Volvo Cars from 2000 to 2006 have been either compact four-doors with hatchbacks, such as the C30 and S40, or modified hybrid designs that have the seating capacity of a station wagon or SUV but are still smaller than normal, such as the V50. The Volvo symbol is an ancient chemistry sign for iron. NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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PERSPECTIVES

CHURCH BELLS I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play. (Longfellow)

Bells are an important part of Christmas celebrations with sleigh bells, bells on Christmas cards and Christmas decorations but most of all Church bells herald Christmas Day and the New Year’s Day. Jean Orpin and Sue Lee go campanologing in Stamford Bell history In pagan times bells were used to ward off evil spirits in the night time, by making a joyful noise. Before everyone had a watch, church bells were used to call people together as warnings and to make announcements. Parishioners were summoned to services by bells and they were also rung to mark the death of a parishioner. William 1st introduced a curfew (couvre feu) bell to be rung at eight o’clock when the fire would be covered and inhabitants retire to bed. In some places it was also a signal for ale houses to close. Change ringing was introduced in the 17th century when bell ringing became a sport and a way of earning money. In the 19th century bell ringing reverted to the clergy who laid down rules. Church bells were silenced in wartime and would only be rung if an invasion took place. Today some customs have gone and others have taken their place.

Bellfounders NORRIS - The Norris family had a bell foundry in Stamford throughout the 17th century living and working at 12 St Paul’s Street from 1617. They supplied church bells to All Saints, St George’s and St Mary’s churches. Tobie Norris was made a freeman in 1607 and was also church warden at St George’s church. His memorial made from bell metal by his sons is still in the church. Four Norris bells are in St Mary’s church made by Tobie Norris 1st. His son Thomas and his grandson followed him in the profession making bells for many churches. Transporting bells was not an easy task as the River Welland was silted up by then and un-navigable so transport by the river would not have been possible and other waterways or other means of transport would have been used. WHITECHAPEL Three of St Mary’s bells and all of St Martin’s were cast in 1850 by Thomas Mears at the Whitechapel bell foundry. Their most famous bell is Big Ben which was cast in 1858 and is the largest bell ever cast at Whitechapel weighing 13.5 tons. Another famous bell from this foundry, England’s heaviest change ringing bell, is the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral tenor weighing over 4 tons and cast by Whitechapel in 1939. The foundry which has celebrated its quarter-centenary is still in business today. TAYLORS of Loughborough are also famous bell founders and the largest bell in Britain, the “Great Paul” was cast for St Paul’s cathedral in 1881 and took 11 days to transport to London. . 42

Stamford Bells Most church towers and bell-cotes were built in the 13th and 14th century. Before this date handbells would have been used. Early bells were highly regarded and were baptised before being hung in the belfry and named after a saint. Only St Martin’s and All Saints have bells which ring. St George’s bell frame is in need of repair and St Mary’s bells are now used for the clock only. A chime barrel had been installed at St Mary’s church in 1770 which played tunes at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock day and night. A different tune was played each day, Psalm 108, General Toast, Tight Little Island, Gramnocree Molly, Lodging on the Ground, God Save the King, Highland Laddie and Psalm 145. The chime barrel was probably silenced when the church was reordered in 1890 or when the spire was repaired in 1913. Perhaps the clergy or the townspeople took exception to the secular tunes? St John’s has four of the earliest bells made in the 16th century. Bells do not last forever R. Taylor of St Neots re-cast three of All Saints Bells in 1808 and one half of a broken bell was made into a handbell for the Town Crier. Eight bells constitute a full peal. All Saints added two tenor bells to make up their full complement in 1982. (Cathedrals have many more bells; the two towers of York Minster contain 32 Taylor bells including a Ring of 12 and a Chime of 11.)

Bell Ringing Bell ringing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. St Martin’s and All Saints have bell ringing teams and visiting ringers also come. Listen out for them this Christmas.

Same to you with bells on

Clear as a bell Ringing the changes Ringing up the curtain Saved by the bell Ring the other one, it’s got bells on Does it ring a bell? Bell, book and candle

NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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Mmmerry Christ mas. Indulgence and Christmas go hand in hand. And, at Dobbies, we have a tasty range of luxury food and drink that’s perfect for the festive season. Along with a nice relaxed atmosphere in-store, you’ll find a bakery and delicatessen with a delicious selection of cheeses. Not to mention, a fabulous range of artisan foodie treats and gourmet gifts. You’ll even have the chance to create your own bespoke hamper, which is a great gift idea. Are you tempted?

Christmas Hampers Create your own or choose from our special selection

Gourmet gifts and the finest local produce

In-store Butcher, Bakery and delicatessen

Cheese Counter I Quality Fresh Produce I Butcher I Bakery I Delicatessen I Wines & Ales Dobbies Garden World I Serpentine Green I Cygnet Park I Hampton I Peterborough PE7 8NY I Tel: 01733 898 640

Shop online at www.dobbies.com 43

DOB24754 Living Magazine 1 • NVL December ADS.indd 297x210.indd 43

04/11/2011 15:47 17/11/11 11:39:32

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

 

  

 

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                       

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

  



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 



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WHAT’S ON

Until Saturday 24 December EVENT: Santa Specials on the Nene Valley Railway Join Santa for a special steam train trip through stunning, Nene valley winter landscapes • Tickets from £11.50 www.nvr.org.uk/timetable/ santa2.php Wansford Station, Nene Valley Railway, Wansford, Peterborough PE8 6LR Tel: 01780 784444

Thursday 1 December PLAY: Cranford at Christmas 7.30pm Visit the region’s newest venue to see Chapterhouse’s heartwarming tale of a rural community struggling to keep the spirit of Christmas alive. • Tickets: £15 (£13), The Lighthouse Theatre, Thurston Drive, Kettering NN15 6PB www. lighthousetheatre.co.uk Contact: 01576 414141 or enquiries@lighthousetheatre.co.uk

Diary dates

Yasmin Bradley picks magical seasonal highlights for December

December

1 THURSDAY 2

FRIDAY

3 SATURDAY



4 SUNDAY 5

GIG: Robert Penn at Shakedown Blues 7.30pm An early Christmas treat for Blues lovers. Shakedown is flying in vocalist, guitarist and one-time producer of the BB King band, Robert Penn, all the way from the USA. • Tickets: £15 in advance, £16 via PayPal, £17 on the door. Village Hall, Castor, Peterborough PE5 7AX www.shakedownblues.co.uk Tel: 01733 380249

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

8 THURSDAY 9

FRIDAY

11 SUNDAY

13 TUESDAY

EVENT: Christmas Tea Party Enjoy a vintageinspired, festive tea with sandwiches, gingerbread, mince pies and Christmas cake, served with tea, coffee and mulled wine. • Tickets: £10 in advance only on 017917 095390 or email nicoladudhill@ yahoo. co.uk Village Hall, Castor, Peterborough PE5 7AX

14 WEDNESDAY 15 THURSDAY 16 FRIDAY 17 SATURDAY 18 SUNDAY

20 TUESDAY 21 WEDNESDAY 22 THURSDAY 23 FRIDAY

PLAY: The Merry Wives of Windsor 7.45pm Oddsocks’ now traditional, joyful December take on Shakespeare: two merry wives give that lovable rogue, Falstaff, an unforgettable shock in return for his unwanted amorous attentions! • Adults: £16 (£8), family £40. Stahl Theatre, West St, Oundle PE8 4EJ Box office: 01832 273930 www.stahltheatre.co.uk

26 MONDAY 27 TUESDAY 28 WEDNESDAY

30 FRIDAY 31 SATURDAY

CONCERT: The Gildenburgh Christmas Concert 7.30PM Long-established and popular city choir sing Christmas music with complementary mulled wine and mince pies. • Tickets: £6. Accompanied children free. St Andrew’s church, Ledbury Rd, Netherton, Peterborough PE3 9RF Contact tickets:davidperkinsmailbox@gmail.com or 01778 343158

 Saturday 24 December

25 SUNDAY

29 THURSDAY

FAIR: Merge Contemporary Christmas Craft Fair 10am-4pm Meet the artists and purchase exquisite, statement Christmas gifts, hand-made by 50 of the best of British makers. • Contact: Zoe Garner on 07860 783635 or mergecraft@hotmail.co.uk or www.mergecontemporarycraftfairs.com

 Saturday 17 December

19 MONDAY

24 SATURDAY

Thursday 8 December

EVENT: Christmas Tree Festival 2pm-7pm/10am – 4pm Forty two Christmas trees decorated by families, schools and businesses; carol singing on Saturday at 6pm and a craft fair with Santa’s grotto in the village hall on Sunday. • Admission £3, adults, Santa’s Grotto £2 (per child). Contact Wendy Cutmore on 01832 295249 or jcut@aol.com. St Mary’s Church, Lower Benefield, Peterborough PE8 5AF

10 SATURDAY  Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December 12 MONDAY

Sunday 4 December

EXHIBITION: Whisper Through the Trees 10am-4pm Source unique, locally made gifts from this cooperative of artists from an eclectic mix of paintings, ceramics, bespoke jewellery, wood turning and woodcuts and more. • Free entry. Yarrow Gallery, Glapthorn Rd, Oundle PE8 4JF Tel: 01832 226495

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December

6 TUESDAY

Saturday 10 December

Saturday 3 December – Sunday 11 December

SERVICE: Christmas Eve Eucharist 11PM Be part of this very special Church of England Christmas service with a more ‘Catholic’ tradition, which brings together people of faith and little faith, Polish, Lithuanian and other East European nationalities in this multi-cultural part of Peterborough. • Free, but collection taken. St Paul’s Church, The Triangle, Lincoln Rd, New England, Peterborough PE1 2PA. Tel: Reverend Ron on 01733 314117 NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2011

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12th December 2011

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