Nene Living June 2018 by Best Local Living

Nene LIVING June 2018 ÂŁ1.50

Here comes summer! Garden goals Food & music festivals Sunny style Outdoor theatre

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Welcome to the June issue of Nene Living T

HIS is the month when the region is full of festivals, music, open gardens and studios, concerts and outdoor theatre, truly something for everyone to choose from - and many of them with free or reasonably priced entrance fees. Not only is it great to have such a huge choice of entertainment, but it’s really life affirming to see communities pulling together to create such imaginative and enjoyable events. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Peterborough Multiple Sclerosis Group with a special concert by professional opera singer Gabriella Pineda-Rodrigues at St John’s Church, Peterborough, on June 9 at 7.30pm. Gabriella, who went to school in Peterborough, will be accompanied by Kate Wishart, musical director for Peterborough Opera. I’ll definitely be visiting some of the Peterborough Artists Open Studios this year, a bigger event than ever before. Also on my list is the open air performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (more details on page 28). And no June diary is complete without a trip to the Oundle Food Festival, with some really tempting local food producers attending (see page 20). Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the month.

Fiona Editor

Incorporating Nene Valley Living

Contents Nene June 2018 June 2018 £1.50

LIVING

Here comes summer! Garden goals Food & music festivals Sunny style Outdoor theatre

5 Six good things in June Holiday bag and a gift for Father’s Day

6 Nene News

The latest from local businesses and charities

14 Lazy Days of Summer Fun fashion for warmer days

19 Food and Drink News

The Black Horse, Nassington, reviewed

20 Celebrating Local Food Come on down to Oundle Food Festival!

NL COVER JUNE 2018 G-FOLD 207 copy.indd 1

15/05/2018 17:33

Cover image: Wildflower meadow near Elton, Cambridgeshire. Photo: Fiona Cumberpatch

23 The Big Bach Walk

A major music project that started life in Oundle

24 Outdoor Living

Get the most from your garden

26 Blurring the Boundaries Indoor and outdoor living blend in Wing, Rutland

28 Wandering Minstrels What it’s like performing Shakespeare outdoors

32 Nene News

Editor Fiona Cumberpatch fiona@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Nene Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.neneliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Designer (Editorial) Chris Strickland Designer (Advertising) Sarah Patterson inkdesign@virginmedia.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne

34 Wellbeing Notes

Subscriptions; annual rate £25 (UK only). Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £25 cheque payable to Local Living, or go online to www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

37 Sensational Summer Skin

Travel inspiration

Look and feel better

Get ready to glow this season

41 Little Living

Ideas for families with young children

42 Out & About

Our pick of the month’s events

www.neneliving.co.uk @neneliving @neneliving Nene Living

47 Damien Hirst at Houghton Hall A day trip with a difference

50 Nene People

Meet Paul Wilson from The Barn Garden Centre, Oundle NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

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Six good things in

…JUNE

WRAP Beat the chilly summer evenings with this cosy wrap, £34 by Tilley and Grace. Available in eight colours from Hilly Horton Home, Thrapston. www. hillyhorton.co.uk

GROW

A cheerier plant than cosmos is hard to find. Young plants are available at garden centres now. Pop them into pots, or fill gaps in your borders, with pinks and plums. By early July, you’ll have a fabulous display.

H S E R F E R

Perk up your outdoor furniture with some weather resistant outdoor cushions. We like these tropical print ones, £8 each from Wilko, Peterborough.

TREAT CARRY

MAKE

Wreaths aren’t just for Christmas and this fresh, ontrend book shows you how to make the most of them year-round. Whether it’s a rustic chandelier to decorate a summer party, or a pretty floral addition to wedding chairs, this book shows you how. Wreaths: Fresh, Foraged & Dried Floral Arrangements by Katie Smyth and Terri Chandler Published by Hardie Grant (RRP £14.99). Available to order from Oundle Bookshop.

Give your Dad a Beer and Chocolate Hamper for Father’s Day on Sunday June 17. £27.50 from Hotel Chocolat, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

Beck Sondergaard bag, £65, ideal for holidays. Energy, 9 Ironmonger Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 765633 NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Nene News People, places, businesses

Take a tour of Open Studios

Organic farm walking tours

ETERBOROUGH Artists’ Open Studios (PAOS) celebrates 18 years of displaying the creative talents of artisans across the city. Members will be showcasing various arts and crafts in their homes, studios, gardens, community hubs and even garden sheds for the public to enjoy. All exhibitions are free entry, with no obligation to purchase, but there is an opportunity for visitors to win £100 with a prize draw. With 108 artists in 46 venues, art lovers will have even more to see during Open Studios than usual. Group venues include the Yarrow Gallery in Oundle, Passiflora’s in Crowland, the Undercroft in Hampton, the Broadway Theatre, Peterborough Cathedral Visitors’ Centre, Puzzles and the Thistle Drive Community Centre in Stanground. Jackie Hall, chair of PAOS says: “it’s fantastic that so many local artists have joined PAOS this year to showcase their work. In addition to established members, we are delighted to welcome some new ones including Korp, Dexter Morgan, Jackie Devereux and Wendy Quinnell and many others.” Pick up a brochure, or check out the PAOS website (www.paos.org.uk) to see as many of the artists as possible over the Open Studios’ weekends – 23, 24, 30 June and 1, 7, 8 July. Members open on different dates and times, so check before you set off. The public launch of PAOS is in Cathedral Square on Saturday June 2 from 9am – 5pm. People can meet some of the artists and pick up the PAOS 2018 brochure. PAOS 2018 23, 24, 30 June, 1, 7, 8 July 2018. For further information of artists, dates, opening times and venues visit www.paos.org.uk

ETERBOROUGH organic farm Riverford has released the dates for its summer walks at Sacrewell, Thornhaugh. The walks will take place between 5pm and 7pm on the first Wednesday of every month from May until September. The dates are May 2, June 6, July 4, August 1 and September 5. Walks will be followed by a Riverford picnic of freshly made pies, dips and salads. The price is £7.50 for adults and £3.50 for children between 5-12 years old, there is no charge for under 5s. Tickets are available from Eventbrite.co.uk.

Calling RAF Women Officers

HE Association of RAF Women Officers (ARAFWO) provides opportunities for women officers to maintain contact with the RAF. The Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire regional group is having a Reunion Lunch on June 30 at The Paper Mills, Wansford at 12.30. If you’d like to attend, contact Sue Arnold on suearnold474@gmail.com

Wedding dresses through history

HIS month, the people of Cotterstock, near Oundle, are displaying wedding dresses through the ages which were mostly worn by them, their families or friends. The exhibition will chart the evolution of bridal fashion from c. 1870 to the present day and will attract visitors to the beautiful Church of St. Andrew on Saturday June 30 and Sunday July 1 from 11am - 5pm. Wedding dresses, shoes, veils, jewellery and photographs will show how styles have changed over the decades. Cambridge Vintage Bridal has loaned two of the older dresses and The Wedding Room, with shops in Stamford and Peterborough, is displaying a current dress and lending some of their mannequins, as is Martin Charles Bridal Gallery in Oundle. There will be a display of precious antique wedding jewellery, engagement rings, earrings and necklaces, all loaned by Nigel Hill of Harpur’s of Oundle. Following the nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, it’s apt that Royal Wedding Memorabilia will be exhibited, including a mug commemorating Queen Victoria’s wedding. A classic wedding cake from Hockleys of Brixworth will set the bridal scene and the church will be decorated with flower arrangements as though a wedding is about to take place. Admission is £5 which includes a complimentary soft drink, there will also be homemade cakes and refreshments served in the village hall throughout the event. On Saturday June 30, a Family Fun Day will be taking place in the village starting with a duck race from Cotterstock Lock at noon. There will be traditional stalls, games and entertainment for all the family and main street will be lined with flowerpot people popping up in different guises. Proceeds to the conservation of the church and village hall.

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

We Love!

The Good Stuff is a new healthy takeaway in Cowgate, Peterborough. Owned and run by Ash Sarman, the menu is delicious, appetizing, and nutritious! We tried spicy felafal with peanut sauce, some super crunchy salads and slaws and delicious vegan Oreo cheesecake. You can get breakfast, lunch and – as it’s open until 9pm, Monday to Saturday - dinner too!

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Nene News Festival on the Green

HIRTEEN years ago, a group of neighbours in Peterborough met for a BBQ because they wanted to get to know each other – and the idea for an annual Festival was born. Run by the residents of Botolph Green, the event is now firmly established and sees over 2,000 visitors enjoy a weekend packed with events. It includes snail racing, stage events including Retrolux, the Military Wives Choir and children’s storytelling. There is also an outside arena with a dog show, village games, the Palmerston Ukulele Band, majorettes and much more. In addition, there will be 40 stalls, Classic Cars, fairground rides, a dedicated children’s bar, and wines and beers for adults. There is also a Sunday Service for Senior Citizens. Fabulous themed hampers can be won in the raffle and there’s a cake competition that attracts all ages. Events overseer Tony Cronin says: “we’re local residents who organise and run this event so that we can meet our neighbours, relax and make the weekend all about local community.” This year’s event takes place on June 15-17. Advance tickets for evening events in the marquee are £5. For tickets and further information, visit: www.botolphgreen.net/ or www.facebook.com/BotolphGreen

Oundle Open Gardens supports Cransley Hospice

N Sunday June 17, 11 gardens will open within a mile radius of Oundle town centre to help raise funds for Cransley Hospice. There will be refreshments, plant sales, a raffle, plus a children’s quiz. A single ticket will allow you to visit some or all of the gardens. Cransley Hospice is committed to providing exceptional holistic care to patients living with life-limiting illness in north Northamptonshire. It provides specialist palliative care to patients with complex needs and supports patients in their chosen place of care at the end of life, whether this is in the Hospice or in the patient’s home. The in-patient unit has nine beds and is supported by a team of specialists. Patients

and their loved ones are helped to cope with challenging symptoms, deal with pain and emotional distress. Not all patients want hospice care, and Cransley provides a valuable Hospice at Home service, providing quality care from Clinical Nurse Specialists, Therapists, Registered Nurses and Healthcare Support Workers – all in the comfort of the patient’s own surroundings. Cransley Hospice Trust is a registered charity which every year provides funding to support the care provided by Cransley Hospice. Over £1.4 million per year is needed to ensure services remain free. www.cransleyhospice.org.uk Tickets and a garden map will be available from May 29 at Oundle Festival Office, and on the day from The Hub, Fletton House, 17 West Street and 2 Cordwainer Gardens, providing entrance to all the gardens. £5. For further information go to www.cransleyhospice.org.uk or contact ali.lloyd13@gmail.com

Are you prepared to make your tax digital? Kerry Hilliard of Stephenson Smart Chartered Accountants explains how the new digital tax system will work.

HE first phase of the Government’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) programme is set to start from April 2019. The programme will eventually require taxpayers to move to a fully digital system, starting with those with turnover above the VAT threshold (currently £85,000). Under the rules, businesses must keep digital records for VAT purposes and provide their VAT information to HMRC using ‘MTD functional compatible software’. There are some exemptions but these are few and far between – most VAT registered businesses will need to comply. If you are VAT registered and not currently using compatible software (such as Xero, Sage or QuickBooks), you need to start to prepare now. Keeping digital records does not mean that all businesses will need to use digital invoices and receipts but you will need to be able to record, preserve and supply HMRC with information digitally so form of third party software will almost certainly be required. Stephenson Smart can help you to get ready for MTD, advising you on the selection of software and providing training and support as required. We can also explain the many benefits that can be obtained by using a digital solution. For more information contact Stephenson Smart on 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

Aspire Sales and Lettings opens in Oundle

HERE’S a new face in the local property scene. Emily Hannan of Aspire Sales and Lettings opens a new office at 2, St Osyth’s Lane, Oundle on June 1. Having been in property management for 18 years, and having built up a successful company in Enfield, London, Emily wanted to return to this region where she grew up. After working for a local Council for a while, she then set up her own business. “I researched the area thoroughly and saw an opportunity,” she explains. “Lettings has always been the underdog of the property market, but it doesn’t have to be like that.” Doing things her way, with a great website, featuring clear photos, floorplans, and imaginative marketing via blogs and reviews, Emily soon found that she was beating her own targets, and landlords were increasingly asking her why she didn’t expand into sales. “I rethought my business model and now I have am selling too,” she says. “I have established a presence in the area very quickly.” She is currently handling sales for the six luxury apartments at Yarwell Country Park, with prices from £299,995 – £319,999. Built in the former Victorian flour mill in the picturesque village of Yarwell, the development comprises six two-bedroom flats, which blend a modern finish with the character of the old mill. For more details, or to see the other properties that Emily has on her books, pop in and see her for a chat, or visit her website www.aspiresalesandlettings.com. Tel: 01832 272225 NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

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Nene News Churches in Bloom

Furnish your home from Housegoods4u!

RE you looking for stylish, good value furniture to refresh a room? Got a student son or daughter with a flat to kit out? Maybe you’re renting out a space and need to make it look good, or perhaps you’d just like some fresh interiors ideas? With a wide range of furniture from top brands, all available at discount prices, Housegoods4u is an Aladdin’s cave of unique and unusual pieces based in a huge warehouse at Fengate, Peterborough, and there is something to suit all tastes, whether you like modern, urban or rustic style. Choose from a selection of new beds and mattresses, sofas and sofa beds, chests of drawers and bedroom furniture. If you are struggling to know how to update your interior, bring in photos of your home and let the knowledgeable staff make suggestions. If you are looking for a full room scheme for a bedroom, for example, there is a service which allows you to design and choose a complete furniture system, selecting everything from the size of the bedside tables, to wardrobes, chests of drawers and storage, with your own choice of pattern, colours right down to the details, such as handles. There’s also a great rug selection in store: simply choose the one you like, order and it will take just three days to arrive. All other stock displayed on the shop floor can be taken the same day. The company, which is family run, also offers a package to landlords, who can choose to have one room or a complete house furnished. Pop in regularly as stock changes every week, and you never know what you will find. Housegoods4u.co.uk Units 1-2 St David Square, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5QA (next to Screwfix). Tel: 01733 343777

Go wild!

OIN this June’s 30 Days Wild challenge from The Wildlife Trusts! The annual challenge encourages people to do something wild every day in June. Louise Rackham, of the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire says: “This is a lovely way to get closer to nature. Sow a window-box of wildflowers to help bees and pollinators or get together with neighbours to create hedgehog highways. No matter how small the action, it all counts.” Everyone who signs up receives a free pack including inspirational ideas for Random Acts of Wildness, such as a recipe for wild strawberry and thyme ice cream and wildflower seeded paper to sow. There are school packs with outdoor lesson plans and giant Random Acts of Wildness cards. Businesses can enrol, with download packs to bring the ‘wild’ to work. www.wildlifebcn.org/30dayswild

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

OUR churches are coming together over the weekend of June 30 and July 1 to create a flower festival with the wow factor! Nassington, Wansford, Woodnewton and Yarwell Churches are all within the Watersmete Benefice and have decided to base many of their displays around a water theme. From 12 noon to 5pm each day visitors can tour the villages and visit all four churches after making a donation of £5 for a one day pass or £10 over the two days of the festival. Passes are available at the door of each Church (under 16s go free). David Laking, treasurer for Nassington Church said “We know how popular our village open garden events have been and have decided to showcase the skills of our flower arrangers who have been planning their displays for months.” Tea and cakes will be served in Nassington Village Hall. Judy Mee, who is coordinating the flower displays for Nassington Church says: “each church will have a different theme. It’s an ambitious project, and we’re buying in the flowers as we will need so many to create something really special in each venue.” Principal sponsor for the event is the local GreenThumb lawn care branch. Run by sisters Sarah and Jo Parish, visitors will find them based near Nassington Village Hall throughout the event. They look forward to saying hello to all their customers and anyone who would like a chat about how to achieve a beautiful lawn. For further information contact David Laking nassingtondal33@gmail.com Paul Tate paul.tate53@hotmail.co.uk 07432 833519

Don’t Miss! Peterborough Art Society’s Annual Exhibition, St John’s church, Cathedral Square, Peterborough from June 5 to 16, between 10am - 4pm (excluding Sunday June 10). Up to 100 original works are on display for sale at reasonable prices.

Concert at St Martin’s Church, Stamford

TAMFORD Singers will give a performance of Fauré’s Requiem plus a selection of sacred and secular pieces from the 20th century, on Saturday June 16 2018 at 7.30pm in St. Martin’s Church, Stamford. The choir is joined by Stamford-born bass-baritone Robert-John Edwards, and Leicestershire based soprano Caroline Sharpe. Entry is free with a retiring collection - all profits will go to the choir’s adopted charity, The Evergreen Care Trust.

A 17th Century Village Pub

A 17th Century Pub in the charming village of Nassington. Taking pride in being a part of the community, serving good home cooked food, five fine cask ales with low beamed ceilings, open fireplaces and two beer gardens, not forgetting a warm welcome from Gary, Pam and the team. Tuesday: Steak Night (booking advisable) Wednesday: Fish & Chips only ÂŁ5.95

THE BLACK HORSE Fotheringhay Road I Nassington Northants I PE8 6QU Tel: 01780 784835 www.blackhorsenassington.co.uk 13

Choose carefree, lighthearted pieces for warm summer days and cooler evenings, with our fashion edit from Queensgate Centre, Peterborough, photographed by the River Nene at Yarwell Country Park. PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN www.ellideanphotography.co.uk STYLED BY: SALLY STILLINGFLEET Instagram@flowerfile

Lazy Days of Summer Mel wears bright pink top £29 with striped handkerchief hem skirt £45 Bag, £35, all from Monsoon. White chunky Converse, £59, at Office.

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Rose wears Joules tunic £59.95, with Nike trainers from a selection at Office.

Mel wears white lacey cotton blouse £59 with white ankle crop jeans £39, both from Monsoon. Rose gold resort sandals, £59, by Hotter.

Vanessa wears navy striped linen jumpsuit £59, with orange cross body bag £35, Kin at John Lewis. Face 4 Face sunglasses from The Oculist £275

Mel wears Modern Rarity silk shirt £125 from John Lewis, with Monsoon ankle crop jeans £39, white Converse £49.99 Office. Hello Sunshine beach bag £19.95 from Joules. Face 4 Face black sunglasses £275 The Oculist.

➧ NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Above right: Rose wears white linen tee shirt £25 John Lewis. Floral trousers, £49.95 Joules. Rose gold mirrored Ray Ban sunglasses, £145 The Oculist. Right: Vanessa wears navy cotton ruffle blouse, £35, and floral trousers, £55, both Monsoon, with blue Brooke pumps, £75 from Hotter. Left: Rose wears red embroidery sundress, £59, from Monsoon, worn with chunky Converse, as before.

Lazy Days of Summer

All jewellery from Monsoon and John Lewis STOCKISTS All clothes available from Queensgate, Peterborough. John Lewis – 01733 344644 Office – 01733 894779 Hotter – 0173 3891862 Monsoon – 01733 352261 Joules (new!) – 01733 314585 The Oculist – 24 Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Centre. Tel: 01733 555621 www.theoculist.com

Shoes from left to right: Laurel £49, Brooke £75, Crossover sandals £49. All from Hotter.

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

ANY thanks to our models Vanessa Squires, Mel Brown and Rose Jones. Thanks also to Rob Gilbert at The Oculist for his help. Shot on location at Yarwell Country Park, which combines permanent park homes and lodges with caravan and motorhome facilities. Overlooking the River Nene, it has a five acre fishing lake on site, and the Riverside Café for coffee, tea and light snacks. Six new luxury apartments are currently for sale in a converted flour mill, via Aspire Sales and Lettings. Thanks to Ema Corcoran and the team for making us so welcome. Yarwell Country Park, Mill Rd, Yarwell PE8 6PZ Tel: 01780 782344 www.yarwellmill.co.uk

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What’s new and where to go

Food & Drink News

Meet Nene Living’s blogger and allotmenteer, Annie, who gardens in the Cambridgeshire Fens.

Fenland Lottie D

OWN on the allotment the warm days of summer stretch before us. These are busy times. There is weeding to be done …. always weeding! The young plants need to be watered and paths need trimming. But it’s not all hard work. There are delicious harvests to be collected too. Between the end of the Chelsea Flower Show and the beginning of Wimbledon, the first strawberries begin to ripen. That first glimpse of a ruby red strawberry nestling amongst the leaves always fills me with excitement and the first ripe strawberries, plucked from the plant and eaten right there are a pure delight. I am not the only one to love strawberries. I have competition, in the form of slugs! We try to garden organically on our plot, so chemicals are not an option. And so, armed with thick gloves and steely determination, I can be seen rummaging amongst the strawberry leaves, scooping up the offending creatures on my trowel and lobbing them Wimbledon-style across the path and into the adjoining hedge where I hope they will stay! Those first few bowlfuls of strawberries need little accompaniment other than a spoonful of cream but as the month progresses and they become more plentiful, it’s nice to ring the changes. One of my favourites is Panna Cotta, the Italian dessert of sweetened cream set with gelatine. I like to flavour this with rosewater, but vanilla makes a delicious alternative. The following recipe gives a softly set dessert which can be poured into ramekins to be turned out later or alternatively, served in pretty glasses or cups. For four cups or ramekins, put 3 gelatine leaves to soak in a bowl of cold water. Then, in a saucepan on the hob, warm 250ml of full fat milk, 250 ml of double cream and 25g caster sugar until the sugar has dissolved. When the gelatine leaves are soft, squeeze out the excess water and add to the warm cream, stirring until the gelatine dissolves. Add ½ teaspoon of rosewater or vanilla essence and pour into ramekins or cups. When cool, place in the fridge until set. Serve with a sauce of pureed strawberries and extra berries on the side. A perfect dessert to enjoy on a summer’s evening. Read more about Annie’s life on her plot every month in Nene Living

Nene Living visits… The Black Horse, Nassington

LTHOUGH he has been the manager of the Black Horse, Nassington since 2014, Gary Johnson has now bought the lease of this 17th century pub and, with his partner Pam Anderson, is full of plans to secure its place at the heart of the community and to continue its reputation as a destination for good, home cooked food in a welcoming atmosphere. We visited on a Tuesday evening, and the freshly decorated pub was busy with a mix of people chatting at the bar, and diners in the restaurant. Gary has just created a new menu with his chef Tyler Jackson, and we spent a while deliberating over the appetising choices. Perry chose a starter of whitebait served with brown bread and dressed leaves, Bridget opted for a chicory, walnut and beetroot salad with a Binham Blue dressing, while Tim had Mozzarella Arancini (deep fried risotto balls with mozzarella filling and tomato and basil sauce). Tim and Perry chose a light beer, Timothy Taylors, to accompany theirs. The starters were generous – you don’t go hungry at this establishment – and delicious. Top marks for the whitebait and the Arancini. For mains, my rack of lamb (from Oundle butchers Trendalls) with gratin dauphinoise, sautéed green beans and a red wine jus was superb, and at £12.95 I thought it was a steal. Bridget recommended her Chicken ‘Zataar’ (marinated in Eastern spices and served with turmeric rice and herbed yoghurt). Perry tried the Pork Schnitzel (from Nassington village butcher JRG&S Mould) with sweet potato fries and homemade slaw, while Tim opted for the home fried chicken. The meat is sourced from the area, with ham from the hyper local Pig and Scarf. There’s an impressive selection of gluten free choices, with its own separate menu, and good options for vegetarians. Expect a busy programme of events, with a quiz on the first Thursday of each month, regular charity fundraising events, live music and summer bbqs (there are two beer gardens). Tuesday is Steak Night, and on Wednesdays, the popular fish and chips are just £5.95. Sunday lunches are popular and should be booked in advance. “We’re a proper pub with good, no nonsense food and good beer,” says Gary. “People say we have the best Guinness in the area, and there are always five real ales.” We felt very welcome at The Black Horse, and service was excellent. The pub is clearly thriving, and its success is well deserved. Fiona Cumberpatch The Black Horse, Fotheringhay Rd, Nassington PE8 6QU. Tel: 01780 784835 www.blackhorsenassington.co.uk

Walks at Riverford on Sacrewell Farm

Join us for a walking tour of our beautiful organic farm. Enjoy stunning views, crops to touch and taste, and a variety of wildlife - all finished off with a freshly made picnic.

Find out more at riverford.co.uk/walks- sacrewell or call 01803 227426 NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Celebrating Local Food What’s on offer at this year’s Oundle Food Festival on June 23? Rebecca Downey finds out

ITH over 75 stalls from the region’s independent food, drink and kitchenware producers present at this year’s Festival, the streets of Oundle will be alive with delicious aromas, bustling crowds and live music. Sponsored this year by AGA Oundle and Hambleton Bakery, visitors can meet the makers and crafters who grow, raise, bake and brew an exciting range of products. Dance troupes including Kickstart and Tap n Sync will be performing, plus shanty singers The Lincolnshire Poachers, folk act Tourdion, and the Wansford Ukelele Folk. There will be entertainment to keep little ones happy with Balls Up Juggling Club and the much anticipated Great Snail Race. Through June, local businesses including Hambleton Bakery, Trendalls, Seven Wells and Stu-Pots are running offers for those with a food festival flyer (available from Oundle box office). Admission is free on the day, as is the park and ride service running from The Wharf to the town centre. Visitors will have the chance to win prizes donated by the stallholders and local businesses in the Festival Raffle.

Lutton Farm

Local family-run Lutton Farm began in the 1960s as a small dairy and pig farm but has evolved over the years and is now the second largest supplier of UK blueberries. Handpicked soft fruit are sold through its marketing group to supermarkets and via the farm shop. As a member of Berry Gardens marketing group, Lutton Farm has access to Driscoll Jubilee and Maravilla varieties – considered to be one of the best tasting strawberry and raspberry in the industry. www.luttonfarm.com

Green Kitchen Preserves

Stoneyfield Wines at Painter’s Vineyard It’s hard to believe that one acre of rubble-filled land could become a successful vineyard producing award-winning English sparkling wine, but John Folliott-Vaughan and his sister Belinda Brown have done exactly that with land inherited near Blisworth Marina, Northamptonshire. A thousand vines were planted in 2011, the first yield harvested in 2013 and accolades have been pouring in since; a Highly Commended from Decanter magazine and a Gold Medal at the Mercian Vineyards Association (MVA) Wine Challenge in 2015 and MVA Wine of the Year in 2017. The Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes are produced using the traditional Champagne method and are well suited to the field’s south facing slope and shingle based ironstone soil. Fermenting and bottling is outsourced to Halfpenny Green Vineyards in Staffordshire and the end result is aptly named Stoneyfield Wines. Painter’s Vineyard now produce up to 4,000 bottles a year and are one of 10 vineyards in the county. Taste it and discover why local British bubbly is burgeoning! www.stonyfieldwines.wordpress.com

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Alison and Roland Cox have been living the good life for years, growing produce on their allotment in the heart of Northamptonshire and creating preserves for family and friends. The positive feedback combined with the gift of her Grandmother’s cherished jam pan inspired Alison to set up Green Kitchen Preserves in 2016. Demand means she now gets her strawberries from local soft fruit producers Lutton Farm. As well as regionally sourced seasonal produce, all of Alison’s products are prepared by hand and do not contain preservatives or additives but do offer surprising twists to the traditional preserve; the Grapefruit & Chilli Marmalade makes a fabulous accompaniment to a curry or as a glaze for fish or chicken. Green Kitchen Preserves are stocked in several places in the county including The Deli in Castle Ashby and Delapré Abbey in Northampton. www.greenkitchenpreserves.co.uk

Healy’s of Winwick Cider

The Little Smokehouse

Cabinet maker Ben Healy describes his Cider business as a hobby that got out of hand: “In 2015 I was making over 1,200 litres and could no longer say it was for personal consumption!” Craft cider sales are on the rise and Healy’s is now stocked in over 20 pubs and shops in the region. The Winwick Gold and Just George ciders are produced in Ben’s handmade oak press and will soon be joined by Donkey Derby. A limited edition of Winwick Fallen later in the year will celebrate the two men who left the village in 1914 never to return, sales of which will go to the Royal British Legion. Healy’s cider has been consumed in the Houses of Parliament representing the county as a member of the National Association of Cider Makers and was a finalist for best new product of the year 2017/2018 at the Carlsberg Food and Drink Awards. www.healysofwinwick.co.uk

Retired teachers Keith and Linda Meredith began smoking cheese after receiving a smoker as gift. Keith built a smokehouse in their garden in Wellingborough and expanded his culinary experiment to smoking coarse sea salt and chilli flakes, which developed into a range of spices and salt blends. Last year their Apple Smoked Cobbler’s Nibble cheese became a finalist for the Carlsberg Food and Drink Awards. Now the kitchen table business has expanded to supply Apothocoffee Shop in Earls Barton. Keith also enjoys selling wares at one off food festivals and monthly farmers’ markets in Moulton and Bromham Mill. www.littlesmokehouse.co.uk For all details visit www.oundlefoodfestival.co.uk

FREE HOUSE

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Ian and the team look forward to welcoming you to The Cross Keys Inn. • Full Bar Menu and A La Carte Restaurant Menu. • Lunch and Dinner, Tuesday to Sunday 12-230pm & 6-9pm. • Steak Night on Wednesday: Two steaks and bottle of wine £30. • Curry Banquet Night: Monday 6-9pm • Real Ales alternating each week. • Bottomless Breakfast/Brunch with Prosecco served Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11am-1 pm

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Sue Dobson discovers how the spark of an idea in Oundle launched a major international music project

The Big Bach Walk A

GENTLE stroll between two villages with musical interludes along the way, the Bach Walk is a popular annual event during the Oundle International Festival. It commemorates J S Bach’s legendary, 250-mile trek from Arnstadt to Lübeck in 1705 to meet and learn from the renowned organist and composer Dieterich Buxtehude. This year, however, something special is happening: The Big Bach Walk. Starting in Towcester on July 4 and ending at Peterborough Cathedral on July 13, it celebrates the completion of Bach’s Orgelbüchlein (Little Organ Book). Across 10 days and a distance of over 50 miles, the curator of the Orgelbüchlein Project, celebrated organist William Whitehead, will walk along the Nene Valley, stopping at churches en route to play 45-minute concerts, where he’ll be joined by local musicians. “It will be a wonderful way to spend time thinking, talking about and playing music, to get under the skin of Bach and, very importantly, to involve the local community,” says William, who likes to take long walks “with a purpose.” “Northamptonshire Best Surprise, a marketing campaign to promote tourism, has designated 2018 as The Year of Northamptonshire Churches, so the Walk ties in neatly with that as well as expanding Festival’s reach across the whole county,” explains Kenneth Richardson, the Festival’s Artistic Director. “We’re inviting people to join William on all or part of his journey or simply come along to the free concerts.”

THE BACH STORY J S Bach’s intention was for the Orgelbüchlein (Little Organ Book) to be a compendium of short chorale preludes for the whole church year. He wrote down the title of each of the 164 chorales he planned to include, but only completed 46 of the settings, leaving 118 pages blank except for a title. Why he left the manuscript incomplete remains a mystery. William’s idea for the Orgelbüchlein Project, a major international composition project to complete Bach’s intended work, was “a light bulb moment” during an Oundle for Organists Summer School about 10 years ago. “A young organist played his own composition at a platform concert – a chorale prelude in perfect Orgelbüchlein style. It was very beautiful and I thought, if a teenager could do it, why can’t we pull together and complete it? I was surprised no-one had thought of that before. I wanted to gather contributions of many different styles that would reflect the ethos of Bach’s work for the modern age.” Based on Bach’s intended melody, new pieces to fill those missing pages have been commissioned from contemporary composers worldwide, among them Robert Quinney, a former Director of Music at Peterborough Cathedral. William has played many of the world premieres of project works in concerts across England, in France and Norway, at the BBC Proms and the Royal Festival Hall. During The Big Bach Walk he will be playing a selection of the new pieces, including three world premieres commissioned by the Oundle International Festival. For the Festival’s annual Bach Walk, this year between Oundle and Cotterstock on July 10, William will be joined in concert by the distinguished British tenor John Mark Ainsley. Students from the Oundle for Organists course will sing some of the chorales that inspired Bach at a late-night candlelit concert in Oundle School Chapel. Details of this and The Big Bach Walk are available from the Oundle Festival Office, 4 New Street, Oundle PE8 4EA; 01832 274734. www.oundlefestival.org.uk

WILLIAM WHITEHEAD

William is an internationally lauded, multi-award winning organist and recording artist with a busy concert diary across the UK, Europe and the United States. His compositions have been sung by college and cathedral choirs and on the BBC and he’s held teaching posts at the Royal Academy of Music and Trinity College, London. He teaches organ students at Oxford and Cambridge universities and the Royal College of Organists and is a popular tutor on the Oundle for Organists courses, which run in parallel with the Oundle International Festival.

July concert dates for The Big Bach Walk Wednesday 4th at 1pm St Lawrence Church, Chantry Lane, Towcester NN12 6YY Thursday 5th at 1.10pm All Saints Church, George Row, Northampton NN1 1DF Saturday 7th at 4pm St Mary’s Church, Church Hill, Finedon NN9 5NR Monday 9th at 4pm St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Titchmarsh NN14 3DB Tuesday 10th The Festival’s annual Bach Walk (St Andrew’s Church, Cotterstock/Oundle School Chapel) Wednesday 11th at 4pm St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Warmington PE8 6TE Friday 13th at 3pm Peterborough Cathedral, PE1 1XS NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Blurring the boundaries Stonecrop House in the village of Wing in Rutland is one of seven gardens opening under the NGS on June 17. Prepare to be surprised, says Fiona Cumberpatch PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN

OUNTRY gardens in midsummer usually suggest hollyhocks, lavender and roses round the door. But Nicky and Matthew Lyttelton’s stunning home tucked away down a lane on the outskirts of the village of Wing in Rutland could not be further from the cliché. Built in 2012 on the site of an old plant nursery, the modern stone and glass house appears from the landscape like a giant sculpture, with folding ‘living roofs’ (planted with sedums or ‘stonecrop’, which gives the house its name) that seem to rise out of the ground and over its two wings. A large drystone wall, built from local Clipsham stone, acts as a thermal buffer. To the south of the property, huge glass windows overlook the garden with its large wildflower meadow and views of the undulating countryside. “We moved here from an old farmhouse in Hallaton,” explains Nicky. “When you were inside that house, you couldn’t really see the garden, so when we were thinking about the design of this one, we wanted to blur the boundaries between inside and out.” Matthew agrees, adding: “it is all about having more communication between the two.” The couple worked with architect Sarah Featherstone of Featherstone Young to realise their design. “We have always liked modern architecture,” explains Nicky. Inside the house, the timber clad ceiling follows the roof profile, spiralling over the main living rooms and rising to the glazed south side. The two wings of the building fit with the environmentally friendly principles behind the whole property: the main wing is heated for day to day living, with the second guest wing opened up when friends and family come to stay. They admit that the major project and two-year build was “a labour of love,” and exchange wry grins. The kitchen leads to a sheltered outdoor terraced area, with a Big Green Egg (a ceramic bbq, grill, pizza oven and low-and-slow roaster) in permanent residence. The central feature of the three quarter of an acre plot, though, is the wildflower meadow, which sweeps away from the property. At the time of visiting, it was carpeted with cowslips, by June it will feature a mass of ox-eye daisies punctuated with yarrow, sorrel, and a few cornflowers. “We sowed the meadow in autumn 2013 with a wildflower meadow mix,” explains Matthew. “Our soil is a bit too rich for ideal conditions, and it is still a work in progress, but it already attracts many butterflies, bees and field mice.” It may look beautifully wild and random providing the perfect foil to the angularity of the house, but the meadow takes some managing. Matthew mows paths through it, and it is cut down

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completely once a year. “Our favourite season for the meadow is probably June,” says Nicky. To the right of the house as you approach is a shady border, planted with euphorbias, hostas, Solomon’s Seal and hellebores. Over the fence scrambles a beautiful evergreen Clematis Armandii, with exotic white scented flowers. Other defined areas include a productive vegetable garden, with currant bushes, a small and recently planted orchard featuring apple, pear, plum, medlar, quince and cherry trees, and Matthew’s ‘tree sanctuary,’ an area that he is devoting to a collection of rare species. These include chequer trees (sorbus torminalis) with flame shaped leaves that turn red and gold in the autumn. Matthew has also planted ash trees, a conscious decision to help counter the threat of Chalara ash die back, a deadly disease which is predicted to cause widespread damage to the UK’s ash population. It’s a big space to keep under control. How do they do it? “We’ve always gardened, and we’ve grown into it more with age. In the summer, we each spend about 12 hours a week out here,” says Nicky. “I do most of the vegetable gardening, Matthew is the tree person, and we share the perennials.” She cites the late gardener and garden writer Christopher Lloyd and his home at Great Dixter, East Sussex, as an influence on their garden style. Positioned through the grounds are some intriguing modern sculptures which lead the eye. In the lawn area to the left of the house, is a striking work by Peter Beard, featuring three smooth ovals of Kilkenny limestone on a plinth. Nicky and Matthew have also created their own features, by leaving partially uncovered roughly hewn lumps of limestone which were uncovered when the house was being built, for example. It is reassuring to hear that even seasoned gardeners like Matthew and Nicky face challenges. The living roof, planted with sedums is stunning with its variegated reddish green hues, but maintaining it is not always straightforward. Planted into membranes, one area of the growth is prone to drying out, and another disadvantage is that the plant spreads voraciously from the roof into the garden beds. “It’s a continuous battle to control it,” says Matthew. The wind also creates challenges, but he is hoping that his tree planting will help to counter this by providing a barrier to the elements. They also regard the space as a work in progress, with many more developments to come. Working with nature, rather than against it, is clearly a guiding principle in this perfectly balanced marriage of the sleekly modern and the gloriously wild.

PHOTO: NICKY AND MATTHEW LYTTELTON

Nicky and Matthew Lyttelton and their dog

OPEN GARDENS AT WING

Wing has seven open gardens under the NGS on June 17, from 11am to 5pm, including Stonecrop House. Adults: £5, children, free. All sizes and styles of garden will be represented. Teas and refreshments will be served in the Village Hall. There are two open studios displaying the owners’ work. Partial wheelchair access to some gardens. www.ngs.org.uk NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

We love!

Hanging out by a fire pit on a summer’s evening is the best. Try these Foscot Fire Pits, £60 for a small, £100 for a medium size from Hilly Horton Home, 36a Goss Court, High St, Thrapston NN14 4JH www.hillyhorton.co.uk

OUTDOOR Living Make the most of your garden this month WORDS: FIONA CUMBERPATCH

Are you sitting comfortably? The days when brown teak garden furniture was the only choice around are long gone. This year, retailers are offering a huge range of colours and styles to create a relaxing outdoor room. Choose from hot neon colours in retro shapes, an artisan look in washed eucalyptus or even stylish rope chairs, made using the same material as fisherman’s nets to create a tactile and comfortable support. Sam Ring of the outdoor living department at John Lewis, Peterborough, says: “there are so many different styles for summer 2018, and many of the pieces can be used in the conservatory, as well as outdoors.” Even if you only have a tiny garden, there is

outdoor furniture to fit the space. The Porto range at John Lewis is a compact bistro set in 1950s inspired shapes, and comes in palm (green), heatwave (punchy orange) or neutral French Grey. If you have a larger patio or deck, try the striking curved Cabana range, with a beautiful double sofa which is both deep and comfortable- and perfect for curling up with a book on a hot summer’s day. “There has been a real shift away from wood and rattan, although of course we do still stock these classic styles,” says Sam. She recommends covering furniture in winter, even though some manufacturers say that it isn’t necessary. “The odd shower is fine over summer, but if you can bring it inside in the colder months, it will last longer,” she advises.

Maintain your machinery! The better your tools, the easier your gardening chores will be, and it’s worth investing in the best you can afford. Tom Calton at The Groundcare Centre near Peterborough has a Husqvarna dealership, selling lithium battery powered strimmers, chain saws, hedge trimmers, and all sizes of mowers from ride-ons to push along petrol models. Customer care is a high priority, and everything that is sold within a 50-mile radius can be delivered by expert staff who will assemble, instal and test it. Tom is also doing a brisk trade in auto mowers – or ‘robo mowers’ which cut your lawn for you while you’re out, away on holiday or if you have limited mobility. “You can monitor the mower via a smartphone when you’re not home,” he explains. An auto mower for a small garden costs from £1350. Good maintenance extends the life of any garden machinery, and Tom’s company offers a fully equipped van which will come to your home and repair or service lawn mowers and power tools in situ. At the end of the season, a Hibernation Service for mowers is available, so when you reach for your grass cutter at the start of spring, it will be clean, shiny and all ready to go! The Peterborough Mower and Groundcare Centre, Milton Business Park, Werrington Bridge Rd, Peterborough PE6 7PP Tel: 01733 907060 Email sales@thegroundcarecentre.co.uk

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Garden Inspiration Belvoir Flower and Garden Show New this year is a garden party and show in the beautiful grounds of Belvoir Castle on July 14 and 15. Be inspired by the show gardens, browse in the craft and floral marquee and shop a host of stalls selling plants, garden equipment and gorgeous things for your outdoor space. There will be live music and an educational area, too. Pre-book tickets at www.belvoircastle.com

Growing in my garden now Geum These pretty perennials glow like small jewels in my borders, and they’re so easy to grow. I like the hot orange ones, such as ‘Cooky,’ but they come in a range of citrus shades. They grow in compact clumps of hairy leaves, with flowers on long stems, from May to late summer. Plant in a sunny spot, in fertile, moist soil. You can grow them in pots, so long as they are kept well-watered. Pair with purple salvias for a shot of colour, or plant them alongside swishy ornamental grasses. Widely available from garden centres such as The Barn, Oundle, Cherry Lane at Paston, or try the new Bosworth’s Garden Centre which has just opened in Elton.

Also available is our Great Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Out Brochure along with our 2018 Worldwide Air & Cruise Brochure which features our popular door-to-door collection service.

Travelling Shakespearean acting troupe, The Three Inch Fools, will be performing at three idyllic local venues this year. Sarah Chase met Oundle-based producer James Hyde

Wandering minstrels

T’S important to be prepared for any eventuality when you are performing in the open air - even unannounced Spitfires flying overhead during a soliloquy. “We like an audience with a spirit of adventure,” says founding member and producer, James Hyde. “With most of our performances taking place outdoors, we like a wellprepared audience - one which is prepared to be rained on now and again!” Dreamt up in 2015 by Cumbrian brothers James and Stephen Hyde, The Three Inch Fools have enjoyed two summers on the road, bringing a musical twist to the works of Shakespeare and delighting audiences across England and Scotland. This third year sees them visiting new corners of Britain, as well as returning to some tried and tested venues: “Last summer we performed on the end of Hastings Pier - a somewhat windy experience, but one that we are excited to repeat this year,” James says. This year, they will perform in this region at St Peter’s Church, Lowick, on Lyddington Village Green and in a field next to Oundle’s Foxtail Lilly against a backdrop of grazing sheep. It was a shared love of Shakespeare’s timeless and remarkable stories, together with younger brother Stephen’s background in composing, that led to the joint venture. The music for the shows, all performed by the talented cast members, is written by Stephen, and brings life and pace to the exciting productions. The rustic approach to staging - a pop-up wooden stage, with props, costumes and instruments kept in plain view at all times - allows the talent of the actor-musicians to be the focus of the audience’s attention. Numbering no more than five at any one time, cast members share all the roles, men taking women’s roles at times, and vice versa, slipping in and out of costumes as required, and creating a high-paced and energetic performance that engages audience members of all ages from start to finish.

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“To date, we have performed in some pretty unusual places,” recalls James, “including an old fire station in Cumbria and a garlic farm on the Isle of Wight! Whilst it’s very difficult to choose one favourite venue, I would have to say that performing Macbeth at Glamis Castle in Scotland was particularly exciting: Macbeth was, of course, Thane of Glamis and we performed in the castle’s medieval crypt - the room that supposedly provided Shakespeare with the inspiration for King Duncan’s gruesome murder.” Often performing two shows in a day, building and taking down the set and travelling to the different venues in between times, life on the road for The Three Inch Fools may not be glamorous but it’s certainly adventurous, with constant new experiences, people and places for the intrepid cast and crew. One of this year’s performances, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, will be in the field adjacent to Oundle florist Foxtail Lilly, where the group appeared last year in Romeo and Juliet. “Add to the mix the delicious al fresco cooking provided by local chef Justin Capp and it makes for a perfect evening,” says James. “We love performing in a field - you really get a sense of being in the great outdoors, especially when you have to remove the odd sheep poo from the performance area!” The Three Inch Fools will perform Hamlet at St Peter’s Church in Lowick and again on Lyddington Village Green. “We love to perform in these sorts of venues,” says James. “They are at the heart of a community and it’s always a pleasure to appear in the good old English village setting.” St Peter’s Church, Lowick - Hamlet, 14 June, 7pm Lyddington Village Green - Hamlet, 17 June, 1pm Foxtail Lilly - A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 17 June, 7pm Tickets can be bought via the website www.threeinchfools.com

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Nene News People, places, businesses

Experts at Hegarty LLP answer some common questions

Q A TRAVEL

Magical Malaysia

T the crossroads of South East Asia and stretching from Thailand to Singapore, the beautiful Malaysian Peninsula lies between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea and offers a culture that is just as diverse as its landscapes. A combination of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Colonial influences create a vibrant multi-cultural atmosphere. One visit to Malaysia is all it takes: you’ll be bewitched! This is beautiful country that brings together all the ingredients for a perfect holiday, with lush landscapes and tropical shores, ancient temples and cutting edge architecture, fresh waterfalls that cut through dark forests, slick city centre hotels and boutique beach resorts. Kuala Lumpur has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a mining town and is the fastest growing city in the country. It has some of the tallest skyscrapers in South East Asia, which sit next to historic temples and sites of cultural significance, while the stunning islands of Langkawi and Penang offer stretches of white sandy beaches and unspoilt paradise. In Malaysian Borneo, renowned for its steamy rainforests and marine national parks the landscapes and wildlife will take your breath way. They are famous for endangered Orangutans and on Mount Kinabalu, the wildlife is diverse. Malaysia is generally hot all year round with differing rainfall patterns. The east coast of peninsular Malaysia experiences rainfall between November and January whilst the west coast experiences more rainfall from August to October. Borneo has a tropical climate with heavy rain between November and February making travel more difficult. The weather in Borneo is at its best between May and October, especially during the fruiting season when there is more wildlife activity. Inspired to visit this amazing country ? Oundle Travel offers a wide range of holidays to Malaysia to suit every style and budget. Why not consider a multi-centre tailor made itinerary, incorporating two nights in Kuala Lumpur followed by a stay in Borneo and then a relaxing week in Langkawi at the end? For a quote, please contact the team at Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 sales@oundletravel.co.uk Website currently in the process of being upgraded. 32

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My father has dementia, can he make a Will/ Lasting Power of Attorney?

Your father must have the capacity to understand and sign a legal document. If he does not have the capacity to do so, then you will need to complete a Court of Protection application to be appointed as a Deputy. What is the Court of Protection? The Court of Protection is a specialist Court which has the power to make decisions, and appoint Deputies to make on-going decisions, in relation to the Property & Financial Affairs, or Health & Welfare, for those who are mentally incapable and have not previously signed a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA). What is a Deputy? A Deputy is someone appointed by the Court to make decisions for someone who is mentally incapable of doing so on their own. They are responsible for making decisions for a mentally incapable person until either the death or recovery of that person. They are usually a close friend or relative of the person concerned but can be a professional such as a solicitor, or a local authority. When should I make an Application to the Court? Applications should be made: • If decisions need to be made and cannot be postponed • The person who you are concerned about lacks the capacity to make decisions for themselves • There is no valid Lasting Power of Attorney or Enduring Power of Attorney. A solicitor can make an application on your behalf, but this is not essential. To speak to Andrea Beesley-Hewitt about any Court of Protection matters call 01733 295552 or email andrea.beesley-hewitt@hegarty.co.uk

Celebrating 10 years of pampering our clients with traditional beauty treatments in our warm and friendly salon. Anti-wrinkle injections and fillers are available from May administered by local health professional, starting at ÂŁ200. To book your appointment or for further information please ring 01832 272310, text 07807 879459, or Email: jayne@purebeautyglapthorn.co.uk The Old Stables, Church Farm, Glapthorne, Nr Oundle PE8 5BE

A month of feelgood experiences for face, mind and body. Compiled by Bridget Steele

Wellbeing Notes

Scandinavian inspired Salon Holistic yoga at home The latest salon to open in Stamford is RÖ, meaning Calm and Tranquillity. This thoughtfully designed salon is situated on busy St Mary’s Hill. Once you are through the door, the Scandinavian styled interior of pale birch fittings, soft grey walls and natural light instantly has a calming effect. Salon owners Claire Wollaston and Clare de Groot have run Zula salon within the Holiday Inn West, Peterborough for the last ten years and have now rebranded both as RÖ. Clare explains: “we want to build on the success of our Peterborough Salon to bring specialised face and body treatments to Stamford, our facials will be prescriptive and use the latest technology in radio frequency, lifting and anti-ageing treatments as well as skin care products such as Environ and the Jane Iredale mineral make up range.” I sampled a RÖ signature electrical Lift facial (with Venus add-on), my therapist Jade explained that it would not be a relaxing treatment and it may be a little uncomfortable! After a thorough Environ skin cleanse, she deftly used her hands to what I can only describe as a facial work out, my face was pulled, pummelled and deeply massaged. Jade explained that this process would encourage collagen production. A Pure Life device was then applied over each area of my face with a moving tip intensity can be increased and it does take a little adjusting to especially on the temples and near teeth. Jade explained the handheld wand can be used at home in between treatments to keep the skin lifted. The facial was completed with a Venus radio frequency skin tightening treatment, finished with an Environ Vitamin A moisturiser and a Jane Iredale foundation. I loved the result – my face had plumped up and the skin visibly taut and tighter. It is remarkable what can be achieved with technical non-invasive facial treatments! Bridget Steele For more information contact RÖ, 9A St Marys Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 769444 roskin.co.uk

Nordic walking with Vivacity Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique using the upper body. It is suitable for all and uses 46% more calories than regular walking. It is beneficial to heart and lungs and ideal for people with knee, shoulder and back problems as the poles help to propel you along. I took part in one of the regular sessions run by Kerry from Vivacity in Peterborough Central Park. I was asked to arrive half an hour before for training. I did worry that walking with a pole in each hand around Peterborough might make me feel a little self-conscious, but within half an hour I was striding confidently through the streets! Kerry supplied the poles and taught me how to adjust the height and hold them correctly. This is more difficult than it sounds as you hold the poles back (the opposite of using walking poles which I had experience of) and swing opposite leg to arm as you walk – which I found surprisingly hard. A friend who had joined me picked it up straight away! Kerry made the walk great fun and she must have excellent peripheral vision as she appeared to pick up my poor technique and with great patience put me right. Even though I still need to master this correctly, I loved it. Nordic Walking makes you aware of good posture as the poles (in the correct position) keep shoulders back. Groups are run most days for all levels. For more information contact Kerry on 01733 864738 or www.vivacitypeterborough-nordicwalking 34

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Tom Sowell found his deep love of yoga and meditation in India where he had taken it up to relax and gain flexibility after working in a physical job as a ski instructor in Canada. He explains: “learning yoga in India inspired me to teach it, watching the Yogis there meant I learned how important meditation was in helping to me to relax.” Back in Peterborough Tom has joined the Registered Yoga Teacher Alliance (RYT) and has over 500 teaching hours experience. Passionate about yoga, he now wants to encourage others and teach people in their homes offering readers a complimentary consultation and taster session that can be on a one to one basis or up to three people. My session with Tom started with a chat about my yoga experience before Tom guided me through meditation and yoga. I was surprised how quickly I was able to ‘let go’ and immerse myself in the session using breathing techniques. Following Tom’s guidance, we covered everything from Sun Salutations to deep poses. Having only been part of a larger class previously, I found it hugely beneficial to have Tom focussing on getting my technique right and working at my level. To find out more or try out a taster session contact Tom on 07746 433869 or email holisticyoga@outlook.com or check out his website www.holisticyoga.info

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E all know that sunshine is good for us and once the warmer months come, we will be applying the sun screen and enjoying being outdoors and topping up our vitamin D levels. But if you could do with a little TLC before you bare your body, we’ve got just the people to help.

BEST FOR… NON SURGICAL FACELIFTS ELYSIA HEALTH & BEAUTY, OUNDLE Lisa Claypole of Elysia Health & Beauty offers treatments that will really make you feel like a star. Loved by Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian, CACI is an innovative hi-tech system that uses electrical impulses to tighten the face and neck and give a fresher, younger look. Best of all, there’s no needles and treatments are so relaxing, clients often fall asleep! Elysia’s treatment menu includes deep wrinkle, microdermabrasion and anti-ageing facials. More info: www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

BEST FOR… SPARKLING SKIN PURE HEALTH & BEAUTY, GLAPTHORN Love diamonds? How about letting some of their glamour rub off on you. Literally. BeautyLab London is a range of high performance skincare products and treatments which are rich in natural actives and functional peptides and Jayne at Pure Health & Beauty offers the premium Black Diamond Facial that contains Black Diamonds, gemstones, oxygen and high performance peptides. It’s instantly illuminating and you’ll leave red-carpet ready or at least, ready to hit the wine bar. More info: www.purebeautyglapthorn.co.uk

BEST FOR… ALL OVER GLOW RÖ PETERBOROUGH AND STAMFORD RÖ first opened its doors in Peterborough, and has recently opened a further shop and salon in Stamford bringing with them some gorgeous treatments including the Body Glow. Choose from 55 to 85 minutes (we’d love to stay there all day) and expect to leave ready to show some skin! The treatment includes an invigorating body scrub followed by a massage with nourishing oils. Enjoy sipping herbal tea while you’re there and browse the collection of Jane Iredale cosmetics. More info: www.roskin.co.uk NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

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BEST FOR… BROWS AND LASHES FLAWLESS FACES, STAMFORD If the eyes are the window to the soul, then it’s time to start giving them some attention. Flawless Faces was founded by make up artist Neeta Matharu (who has 15 years’ experience in the beauty business) and is a specialist in HD brows and threading while her colleague Sylwia can offer natural looking lash extensions or the more glamorous Russian lashes. The salon also offers walk-in appointments. More info: www.flawlessfaces.co.uk

Eat well for healthy skin

Nene Living meets nutritional therapist Pip Fairhill of Live Life in Balance, who explains how better gut health can make for more radiant skin. Is it true to say that we are what we eat? It’s more correct to think that we are what we can digest! Over the last few years there has been so much new information and a greater understanding of how the body works, especially about gut health and the microbiota – these are a complex community of microorganisms predominately bacteria. To ensure your microbiota is working efficiently, your diet needs to be free of sugar (and artificial sweeteners), processed foods containing unhealthy fats and simple carbs and full of a variety of fruits and vegetables – eat the rainbow! Plants are full of macronutrients (protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, including fibre) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals and other beneficial natural chemicals). Good free range, grass fed animal foods (red meat, poultry, fish, and eggs) also contain valuable nutrients, especially proteins. How does what we eat impact on our skin and what foods are particularly good for the skin? If so, could you recommend a recipe? Your skin can be a good barometer of your general health. A lack of Vitamin A and essential fats can result in dry, rough skin; zinc and Vitamin D are needed for the production of new generations of skin cells; dehydration – water is one of the most important nutrients. Adequate water is vital for all the cells in the body, especially for healthy, soft, firm looking skin. What you eat today affects the quality of your skin tomorrow. A good skin diet should include plenty of antioxidant-rich foods

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

– these include red, yellow and orange vegetables and fruits such as sweet potatoes, carrots, apricots and watermelon; purple foods such as berries and grapes; green foods such as watercress, kale, alfalfa sprouts and broccoli; ‘seed’ foods such as peas and whole grains, fresh unsalted nuts, seeds and their oils, plus onions and garlic. A couple of portions of oily fish per week ensures an adequate supply of Omega 3 and 6 essential fats.

This Green Super Smoothie is perfect: Blend together 1/2 cup spinach; half a mango; half an avocado; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon spirulina and 1 cup water. What other services do you offer your clients? I see clients on a one to one basis, either at my home office in Deenethorpe or in their own homes if that is more convenient. I cover all aspects of nutrition and any life coaching issues that clients have. I also give talks to groups or as part of a corporate Wellbeing package. One of my popular presentations is ‘Eat, Drink, Poo and Sleep’ which is 45 minutes long and covers four vital aspects of a healthy life. More info: www.livelifeinbalance.co.uk

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A little bit of fruit picking

June marks the beginning of the berry season. Hill Farm in Chesterton is the perfect place to take your little fruit-pickers and it’s a fantastic family activity. Set in lovely countryside with oodles of parking, there’s a cute play park, a picnic area and a shop that sells in-season fruit and veg from the farm, plus refreshments. You’ll also get to see some rescued birds of prey, which Eliott always seems hypnotised by! The kids love spending an afternoon trying to find the fattest pickings and I struggle to tear them away from the park. In season now are raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries and juicy redcurrants. www.hillfarmpyo.co.uk Free parking. Tel 01733 233270.

LittLe Living Rachel Andrews-Ingram (and her two under-fives) find child-friendly activities in June!

A little bit of learning through plAy

I always love seeking out a new playgroup and Play Heroes in Elton turned out to be so much more. Primary teachers Hayley and Carla have put so much thought into this fun and interactive play sessions which they created after noticing a lack of creative and educational activities in the area. After a very warm welcome, Eliott was free to explore the activities including biscuit decorating, a sensory area, a music corner, water play, a ball pit and painting. Each session has a theme; ours was under the sea. I had a chance to meet and chat to some mums and had a lovely cup of tea and some beautifully decorated homemade cake. There’s also snacks and drinks available for the little ones and at the end of the session we gathered together for music and sensory ‘under the sea’ play, with lots of bubbles! There’s a range of different themed sessions for 0-4 years old so it’s worth having a look on their website to find a session that suits your child. 3 sessions: £16.00, full term £29 www.playheroes.co.uk playheroesinfo@gmail.com

A little bit of splAshing around

The Garden Of Surprises at Burghley Park offers a unique treat for the kids on a hot day. And it’s the ticket that keeps on giving: buy a family ticket – which includes the sculpture gardens – and you can use this for entry for a year! The gardens are great for children to explore the various sculptures and we like having a picnic by the beautiful lake: it’s the perfect setting for a lazy summer day. Then head off to the Garden of Surprises, an Elizabethan style garden with lots of water jets, mirrored maze, a moss house with misty spray jets, an ‘ice house’ and many more delights. Make sure you pack some non-slip shoes, swimming costumes, sun-cream and hats. Family ticket in advance £38, Parking FREE www.burghley.co.uk

A little trip to the zoo

A visit to the zoo is always a great day out – especially for tots who get to see the exotic animals from their picture books for the first time. Hamerton Zoo was Eliott’s first zoo experience. This is a great zoo for little-er ones as it’s small, and easy for tiny legs to get around without getting too tired. We were impressed with the number of species we got to see, and there’s also a ‘strolla-safari’ where you can get up close to domestic animals including some rather zealous goats! There are plenty of benches to stop and have a picnic and watch the animals, and an on-site coffee shop to grab a snack. Although not open when we visited, there’s also a play park with an area for younger children. The highlight for Eliott was a ride on the Express Rail Road Train, which whisks you around the park to some catchy music! £13.99 Adults 3-12 £8.99 www.hamertonzoopark.com NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Out & About

The pick of events in June. Compiled by Rachel Andrews-Ingram

Bill Bailey

Saturday 2 June Bee Skep Making - The Arc, Elton Discover the ancient craft of bee skep (wicker basket) making in a tranquil and inspiring setting by the river at The Arc Cabin in Elton. These will look lovely amongst herbs and wild flowers in the garden or just as a wicker basket, so if even if a bee keeping isn’t for you, the techniques you’ll learn can be applied to making something stunning for the house or garden. 10.30am, £65 The Arc Cabin, Duck Street, Elton, Peterborough PE8 6RJ, 07910 620639, www.thearccabin.co.uk/bee-skep-making Saturday 2 June Steps Concert at ABAX Stadium Pop sensation Steps are returning to the Abax stage for their summer outdoor tour. Fans of these 90s chart-toppers can expect lively dance performances and colourful costumes with the band performing hits from their glory years and most recent album Tears on the Dancefloor. The band promise to “deliver a massive party” to old and new fans. Die-hard fans can even buy a meet and greet from £285… 4pm and 6pm Standing from £39.50 + booking fee Seating £50.00 + booking fee www.theposhtickets.com ABAX Stadium, London Road, Peterborough, PE2 8AL Saturday 2 June Gin & Jazz at Water Newton A summer’s evening, a calm riverside setting, a Feast of Summer buffet and live music from Yarwell and Nassington Brass Band, and The Gershwin Gang, featuring Andy Peate and Yolanda Penn. It sounds pretty perfect to us! Donations to the

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Nene Valley Care Trust, which does great work with disadvantaged young people. 5pm-11.30pm £27.50, including buffet. For tickets: Tel: 01733 230628 or www.rivernenecottages.co.uk/ ginjazz Millhouse Gardens, Water Newton, PE8 6LU.

activities, inflatables and children’s rides plus a variety of food stalls and bar. Free to attend To enter a team: www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk Peterborough Rowing Club at Thorpe Meadows, PE3 6LN

Friday 8 June Sunrise City 5k at Cathedral Square Peterborough Experience Peterborough in a whole different light: sunrise, to be exact. This summer charity run is open to people of all levels of fitness – whether you’re accustomed to an early morning run or prefer a more leisurely pace. You can walk or run this 5k route taking in the magic of the deserted city centre in daybreak and raise money for Wish Upon a Star. If you’re looking for an invigorating way to start your Friday morning, this is for you. 5.30am, entry from £15 Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH www.sunrisecity.co.uk/cities/ peterborough/

Saturday 9 June Bill Bailey – Lark in Transit Tour, East of England Arena Black Books star, multi-instrumentalist and sometime birdwatcher Bill Bailey – described by The Daily Telegraph as “the brainiest comic of his generation,” will be stopping off at the East of England Arena in his new show’s national tour. Ever the raconteur, expect a hilarious compilation of tales from this travelling comedian, including an excruciating encounter with Paul McCartney. With musical interludes and his trademark intelligence and wit, Bill puts the spotlight on politics, philosophy, the pursuit of happiness, death metal... and ringtones. 8pm, £30.25, tickets: www.ticketmaster.co.uk East of England Showground, Alwalton, Peterborough, PE2 6XE

Saturday 9 June Peterborough Dragon Boat 20th anniversary Festival at Thorpe Meadows Watch over 30 teams as they descend on Thorpe Meadows where teams of colleagues and friends compete in a wacky boat race to raise money to help the local community on this 200m course. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the festival charity Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice has set a target of £20,000, with the team that raises the most money for Thorpe Hall Hospice receiving a prize worth £600. Enjoy a fantastic day out with plenty of bankside family entertainment including funfair

Saturday 9 June RAF in Concert A chance to see the RAF’s premier band perform live on stage in this their centenary year, in support of the RAF Benevolent Fund. Joining them on stage will be local award-winning Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir. Playing a key role in state ceremonial events and seasoned veterans of concert performances in theatres around the globe this is an event for anyone who appreciates exceptional talent – and the exceptional music it makes. From £16 at www.peterboroughsings.org.uk phone: 01733 265705, The Cresset, Rightwell, Peterborough PE3 8DX

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Out & About

An audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse.

Grumpy Old Women

Saturday 9 June Cottesmore Military Wives Choir Festival Concert Celebrating the ‘colour of song’ as part of the Flower Festival on Saturday, watch The Military Wives perform in the magnificent setting of St John the Baptist Church in Harringworth Village. The choir have an extensive repertoire that includes a variety of different songs and styles, some commemorating the losses and sacrifices of WW1, which ended a century ago this year. Flower displays from the festival will also be on show. £10, 7pm tickets: www.harringworthvillage.org or email: harringworthv@gmail.com St John the Baptist Church, Seaton Rd, Harringworth, Corby NN17 3AF Tuesday 12 June Swan Lake Can Prince Siegfried free the beautiful swan princess so she can become human again, breaking the spell of the evil Baron Rothbart? There’s a nasty twist in this tale, but will true love avail? Watch the Royal Ballet unravel this timeless and classic story in this new production – shown as a live broadcast from the Royal Opera House – with additional choreography by Artist in Residence Liam Scarlett, bringing fresh eyes to the staging of this classic ballet. Enjoy a captivating performance of graceful dancing, lavish costumes and stunning scenery all played out to Tchaikovsky’s magical score. £16.50, 7.15pm, www.vivacity.org, 01733 207239, The Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF

Saturday 16 June Voodoo Room - A Night of Hendrix & Cream, Key Theatre A treat for fans of the psychedelic 60s, this intense live show celebrates the music of arguably the two greatest blues-rock bands of all time: the London supergroup of Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton, and the American guitarist they inspired to make the electric guitar sound like nothing on earth. A power trio of acclaimed musicians – some of whom have played with influential bands themselves – this show has received rave reviews. A chance to hear classic songs like Voodoo Chile, Hey Joe, Sunshine of Your Love and Crossroads (almost) as they sounded back in the day. £16.50, 7.30pm, www.vivacity.org, 01733 207239, The Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF Wednesday 20 June Grumpy Old Women Following on from the hit TV show, join the mistresses of grump Jenny Eclair, Dillie Keane and Lizzie Roper in a celebration of the pre-, peri- and post-menopausal female condition. With some unexpected outfit changes on show, these mistresses of grump come together on stage to ponder a number of hot topics, in this light-hearted and fun evening tackling what it is to be a woman in their maturing years. £26.50 www.cresset.co.uk, 01733 265705, The Cresset, Rightwell, Peterborough PE3 8DX

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Friday 6 - Sunday 8 July Just Dogs Live Whatever kind of dog you have and whatever you do with them – from agility to pampering to just cuddling up on the sofa – you’ll find loads to love about Just Dogs Live, which also incorporates the East of England Championship Dog Show. There’s a huge array of exhibitors, the chance to meet like-minded owners – and dogs are welcome, of course! 8am, £5, 01733 363500, http://www.justdogslive. co.uk/ East Of England Showground, Alwalton, Peterborough, PE2 6XE Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 July Peterborough Sausage and Cider Music Festival Near-legendary for hosting an array of top-quality music homage acts (this year’s bookings include Oasis, Foo Fighters, Queen, Guns n’ Roses and Bon Jovi tributes) this year’s festival has a change of venue to the showground and promises to be the biggest yet! Rock up and rock out to a weekend of the best lineup on the planet… or the next best thing, at least. £15.95 - £19.95 for a day ticket, 2pm. Tickets: www.eventbrite.co.uk, East of England Showground, Alwalton, Peterborough, PE2 6XE

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

Festival 2018

15 - 23 September

Damien Hirst at Houghton Hall Contemporary art meets Palladian splendour in a unique collaboration between an aristocrat and an artist, writes Fiona Cumberpatch Myth and Legend

The Saloon The Library

Charity T may sound like an incongruous pairing: Damien Hirst, whose work is for many the epitome of ‘modern art’ and Houghton Hall, one of Britain’s finest Palladian mansions, built by Sir Robert Walpole in the 1720s and home to a fine collection of Old Masters. But this is a combination that works, as the ornate State Rooms are transformed by 46 of the artist’s new Colour Space paintings, hung in place of Walpole and Cholmondeley family portraits, while the grounds accommodate a selection of Hirst’s iconic sculptures. In fact, Houghton was originally built with an art collection in mind, and by 1736, Sir Robert Walpole had amassed one of the finest in the country. The current owner, David, 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, admits that the prospect of having the Hirst exhibition was too good an opportunity to miss. “This will be the third contemporary art exhibition at Houghton. Last year’s Richard Long exhibition doubled our visitor numbers, but we had thought we would have a year off as it does entail a certain amount of upheaval. Some six months ago, we were approached by Mario Codognato, the exhibition curator who is working with Damien Hirst. He said they were looking for a new venue and they thought that Houghton was right. It was not an easy decision to make, because it had to happen in a relatively short time, and there are practicalities to consider, but it has all come together.” The Colour Space Paintings, which are named after paint colours, sit in the fairy tale splendour of the State Rooms with surprising ease. Amongst the festooned four-posters, elaborately carved furniture and balustrades, the smaller paintings appear playful. Even in the Saloon, where vast Hirst canvases compete with rich red furniture and flocked wallpaper, they do not seem out of place. What does the artist think? “I think they look great,” says Damien Hirst. “I thought they might be too contemporary, but as soon as I’d made my first trip here, I knew they would be right. I’d love them to stay here for ever!” Colour Space, publically exhibited for the first time at Houghton, represents a new stage in the Spot Paintings, and revisit Hirst’s earliest example of the series, which was done in 1986 while he was a student at Goldsmiths College. He has returned to the loose, hand painted spots with drips of paint, rather than the uniform shapes created on a grid pattern, which he devised later in his career so that studio assistants could collaborate on the work with him. “Colour Space is going back to the human element. I prefer them to the perfect spots. It’s because I’m getting old - maybe this is how I’m feeling now!” Outside in the grounds, Hirst’s huge sculptures, a combination of the

kitsch and the grotesque, add to the dreamlike quality of the parkland, with its magical white curled entrance gates and the roaming herd of white deer. ‘Myth’ (2010) and ‘Legend,’ (2011) a winged Pegasus and a flayed unicorn look breathtaking against the façade of the Hall, with a long, grassy ride stretching into the distance. Temple, a naked anatomical model of a man, looks down the ride, half open to the elements. Lord Cholmondeley, who lives at the Hall with his wife Lady Rose and their young family, hopes that the exhibition will attract a new audience. But how does it feel to live with a houseful of Hirsts? “I’m not sure yet, they haven’t been up long enough to decide!” The couple’s interest in contemporary art is clear: they have already invited artists Sir Richard Long and James Turrell to create permanent pieces for specific areas of the estate, while sculptures by Sol Lewitt and Stephen Cox have been commissioned. There will be more ground-breaking exhibitions in the future. “This will be a hard act to follow, but we do already have some ideas,” says Lord Cholmondeley. Watch this space! Damien Hirst at Houghton Hall: Colour Space Paintings and Outdoor Sculptures March 25 to July 15 2018. For ticket information and opening times, visit www.houghtonhall.com All images copyright Damien Hirst and Science Ltd, All Rights Reserved DACS 2018. Photos by Pete Huggins NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

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We are Also celebrating 40yrs of trade if your art person can thinks up something nice for the advert

Natural blue slate roof

We are also on Facebook so that logo will need adding. Looking through your latest edition I like the layout and style of the hunter Steven limited advert and the wright feet advert Grp fibreglass

Heritage and listed property contractors, keeping the beautiful past preserved for the future.

EBRATIN G

Heritage Collyweston slating

Craig

Stamford Roofing Company Ltd, 20 Chatsworth Road, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 2UN

S TRAD

Nene People At The Barn, Oundle, Paul Wilson tells Sue Dobson about his plans for the thriving garden centre

Paul Wilson

Paul Wilson David Wilson outside the original barn

HEN Paul Wilson’s father, David, worked as a postman in Peterborough, he ran a gardening club for his colleagues from a tin shed on Gunthorpe Road, known affectionately by all as “the barn.” Was he a keen gardener then? “He gardened over weekends, like everyone else in the Sixties and Seventies, but it was the business side he really enjoyed,” Paul remembers. So when David retired from the Post Office it seemed natural for him to devote his new life to plants and he opened a garden centre in Peterborough called, what else? The Barn. As the business grew, Paul left his career at Pearl Assurance to join his father’s enterprise and nine years ago they opened a new garden centre in Oundle. “The site on Barnwell Road had a chequered history and, having been abandoned for two years, was overgrown and derelict, but we saw its potential and worked very hard to get it into shape. Essentially we fell in love with the area and as there was a house on the site, too, I was able to move here with my young family. Today we feel rooted in the community.” With his father’s failing health, Paul found himself ever more stretched running the two locations and in January this year sold the extensive Peterborough garden centre to concentrate on improving and developing his Oundle base. “Our reputation has been built on nursery-fresh plants, as well as offering everything a gardener requires, and that isn’t going to change, but I’d like to add a coffee shop and make The Barn Oundle a place to visit and enjoy yearround,” he explains. “I’m looking to expand the covered area to over-winter plants, also free up some space for outdoor cold tunnels. At six acres it’s a big site, so there’s plenty of room for expansion, but I’m happy for it to be a moderate size.”

BRIGHT WITH COLOUR

On a cold late spring day, it was as though spring had actually arrived. Cheerful daffodils trumpeted a welcome, the dainty white flowers of weeping cherry tumbled through trellis and magnolias raised their waxy blooms heavenwards. With corkscrew hazels in bud and sweet peas all set to start climbing, the camellias were putting on their own show. The eye-catching vistas of pink and purple aubrieta, cheery red saxifrage and a blaze of polyanthus in rainbow hues seemed guaranteed to raise winter-worn spirits. “The nurseries are around three weeks behind this year, “ Paul says, “but plants are arriving all the time and it’s full steam ahead with a big range 50

NENE LIVING JUNE 2018

of bedding plants, perennials and hanging baskets. By June it is a riot of colour here.” “We look after the plants we’ve got and try to source them locally where we can. The outdoor plants are mainly English stock while the houseplants come from Holland.” “I like to offer something a little different – for example espaliers and fan-trained fruit trees, foxtail lilies, dieramas (Angel’s fishing rod) and variegated acanthus – and ensure there’s something for every interest and for gardens of every size. As well as new ranges of plants for small spaces there’ll be some spectacular specimens for impact and a wide variety of roses.” He even proves that you don’t need a big space to grow fruit trees – there’s a rather nice peach tree that’s perfect for a patio pot. Outside, an array of ornamental trees, soft fruits, vegetables, herbs and an A-Z of shrubs vie for attention alongside arbours and ornamental pots of every size. Inside, among the garden furniture, fire pits, chimeneas, planters and solar lighting, there’s everything from rack of seeds to a section for wild bird care, compact growhouses to specialist plant feeds and, should it turn out to be a soggy summer, Paul also sells wellies! www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk

Paul’stop 3 local attractions

Having Barnwell Country Park on my doorstep

Good independent shops

Local pubs – great beer, great food and all childfriendly!

HEALTH

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Live Life in Balance

HILL FARM, OUNDLE ROAD, CHESTERTON, PETERBOROUGH PE7 3UA

4 aspects of life create vitality – a good healthy diet; a positive attitude; regular exercise and a good night’s sleep. At Live Life in Balance, we can help you achieve all 4!

Pip Fairhall

Nutritional Therapist and Life Coach

W: www.livelifeinbalance.co.uk E: pfairhall@livelifeinbalance.co.uk T: 07557 344402

HEALTH

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Start treatment now, ready for next summer

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HEALTH

HYPNO-SLIMMING

Holistic Yoga & Meditation