Ginger Spice
A Stilton Story
Peterborough Speaks
Boxing Day Walk
NENE VALLEY LIVING
SEASON’S EATINGS
F O O D / FA S H I O N / H E A LT H & B E A U T Y / H O M E & G A R D E N / L I F E S T Y L E
Comfort and Joy
Music, food, celebrations
DECEMBER 2014 £1.50 12
9 771740 052017
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90 shops
OVER
15
places Thousands to eat of brands
LATE NIGHT
Shopping
Late night shopping in December until 9pm weekdays and 7pm Saturdays with free parking after 5:30pm weeknights. From 1st until 23rd December. 2
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NENE VALLEY LIVING
This Issue
DECEMBER 2014
w w w. n e n e v a l l e y l i v i n g . c o . u k
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’ve been lucky enough to take part in a local arts project this month. During the summer, I was asked if I would like to keep a personal journal to form part of the Hoarding exhibition which opens at Peterborough City Gallery on December 12. Around 200 journals were given out to a cross section of the community in Peterborough. At first, I was not sure: keeping a diary is such a personal activity, would I really want my private thoughts to be on public display? Would I be able to keep it up? What would I say? I haven’t written a diary since my child-free twenties and wasn’t sure I wanted to return to those introspective years! In the end, I opted to keep a mainly visual record of the four months, painting, drawing and printing some aspects of my days. I do enjoy dabbling with various media, and I must say I really came to look forward to the time I set aside for the journal. When I saw the other diaries for the first time, I was really moved. There are intimate diaries, drawn diaries, photo diaries and scrapbooks from men, women and children of all backgrounds and nationalities. Each one is fascinating and compelling in its own way. Do go and see the exhibition, curated by METAL (feature on page 39) and see how public and private thought are represented. If you are getting ready for the festive season, we’ve plenty of features to help you on the way, with our usual mix of delicious local food, fashion and great events to enjoy. If you prefer simpler pleasures to parties and feasting, then we have two walks, one local and one further afield. All that remains is for me to wish you all a really good Christmas and a very happy new year.
F ion a Cu mberpatch Editor
Nene Valley Living
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Editor’s selection
Last minute gifts from Queensgate
Agenda
Make your own Christmas wreath
Agenda
The Rounded House interiors and gift shop
11 Agenda
Make a punchy mincemeat recipe
12 Food News
The Falcon, Fotheringhay reviewed
15 Ginger and spice and all things nice Tastes of Christmas
16 My Perfect Gift
Local retailers reveal their choices
20 ‘Tis the Season
Christmas markets near and further
22 Blue Cheese Dressing
Is the famous cheese coming home?
24 Christmas party fashion Sparkling style
27 Source a local Christmas dinner Shop the region!
30 The Sounds of Christmas
A season of wonderful music
32 Health and beauty notes Treatments for body and soul
35 A walk through Sheffield
Stroll through this great northern city
39 Peterborough Speaks
A new exhibition about public and private thought
40 Peterborough’s own Santas Rosie and John Sandall’s story
42 Boxing Day walk A local amble
45 Diary dates
The best events this month
Editor Fiona Cumberpatch fiona@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Nene Valley Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: localliving@btopenworld.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne Cover photo: Tracey Mathieson. Rusty wreath made by artist Jeni Cairns and available from Art in the Heart, Bridge Street, Peterborough, from £65 - £75. Other accessories Foxtail Lilly.
SUBSCRIBE TO NENE VALLEY LIVING
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 2014
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Romejo’s of Oundle, a one stop shop for gifts for men and women plus everything you need to make a house your home
Bring this page for a 10% DISCOUNT off any Italian handbag *offer expires 18/12/14
14 Market Place, Oundle PE8 4BA - Tel: 01832 272165 Email: info@romejos.co.uk - www.romejos.co.uk
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Editor’s selection
Gold glitter deer decoration, £12, Paperchase
GIFT E T U N I M T S A L R O STUCK F IGHT M E T A G S N E E U Q ? S IDEA U NEED O Y S R E W S N A E H T HAVE Penguin children’s Christmas jumper, £8, Prim ark
y. iPad with retina displa ad nlo dow es, Play gam surf music, watch films or os. Arg , the net. £279
Carluccio’s coffee set, containing two coffee cups and saucers, Napoli espresso ground coffee and a bag of dark chocolate coffee beans. £29.95, Carluccio’s
, Hobbs at John Lewis Cosy duffle coat, £229
Jack Wills holdall with gym essentials, £45, Boots Dune Dorisey handbag, £69, John Lewis
Start a Pandora collection with this grey leather and sterling silver bracelet on which to hang the charms. Moments Triple Woven Leather bracelent in grey, £50. Murano glass charm, from a wide selection, £35.
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NEWS, REVIEWS, EVENTS
Winter Magic at Olive Grove Nurseries V
Join the Greeniversity
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ry something new this Christmas. Sign up to a free Greeniversity class and get ready for the festive period. There is something for everyone, from willow weaving with a Christmas twist to creating your own Christmas cards or hand making presents such as jewellery and sweet treats. • Wonderful Willow. November 16 1pm3pm, Peterborough City Centre • Make your own Christmas cards November 18 11am-1pm Peterborough City Centre • Festive Fermentation and Peculiar Pickles, December 2, Peterborough City Centre • Greeniversity is a community skills network which is all about living in a way which values the environment. It’s free and easy to join, just visit www.greeniversity.org.uk/sign up and you can browse all the Christmas classes. RENE VINER
isit Olive Grove Nurseries near Polebrook during December and you’ll find everything you need for your home this Christmas, with none of the hassle of the high street. There are plenty of twinkly Christmas displays in the home and interiors shop, and a wide choice of delicious festive food in the deli. It’s a great place to pick up nibbles for your Christmas buffets and drinks parties, including a wide range of flavoured olives, cold cuts and cheeses. You can also have a gift hamper made up, selecting items from the shelves, such as nuts, preserves, pickles and biscuits. Enjoy a light lunch in the coffee shop and gelateria which has trebled in size. Cosy up by the wood burning stoves and choose from an
appealing menu, with home made soups, pate, mezze and the famous pizza cooked in the wood fired oven. There is live music seven days a week, and in December it will have a festive flavour. “We’re having a brass band here on Saturday December 13,” says owner Tim Thackeray, “and late night shopping every Thursday through December.” Fresh Christmas trees of all sizes are available from the piazza area, and there are seasoned logs and kindling on sale perfect for making a roaring log fire at home. Co owner Jackie Thackeray has been busy sourcing items for the interiors store, with everything from rustic wrought iron log baskets to wine racks, baubles, lights, decorations and some quirky and unusual finds. “You can find everything you need here for a relaxed Christmas experience including easy parking,” says Tim. • Olive Grove Nurseries, Oundle Road, Polebrook, Northants PE8 5LQ Tel: 01832 275660 www.olivegrove nurseries.co.uk Open seven days a week.
The Beauty Room Oundle, reopens T
he Beauty Room in West Street, Oundle is under new ownership and recently reopened after undergoing refurbishment. The salon offers exclusive and signature treatments such as HD brows, deep tissue massage and intimate waxing, all performed by experienced beauty therapists. The salon also has a hairdresser with over 22 years’ experience. On December 10, there is a late night shopping event where you can purchase gift vouchers and Elemis Gift Boxes at a great price. There will also be one-night-only discounts on treatments booked. • The Beauty Room. Tel: 01832 273989
At the Sign of the Mermaid S
tamford watchmakers Loomes & Co have launched a new waterproof wristwatch called The Mermaid in time for Christmas. Loomes & Co are known for their stunning Stamford-made watches. Their entirely English Robin is still available, handmade to order, with a waiting list of around 12 weeks. The Mermaid, however, is a ready-to-wear wristwatch and is priced at £2,850. In 1656, Thomas Loomes ran the largest clock and watchmaking business in the world, established at The Sign of the Mermaid in the City of London. The Mermaid seemed the perfect name for both Loomes & Co’s current riverside workshops and for a new automatic high quality waterproof British watch. “My office looks out over the River Welland. In fact, our lower ground floor has come perilously close to flooding once or twice. It has made us determined to manufacture a waterproof watch here. The name Mermaid was inevitable.” The Mermaid contains a new automatic movement with – for the first time – numerous internal movement components machined in the Stamford workshops. Both the movement and the dial are decorated with the traditional Loomes sign – a mermaid holding an hourglass. River dwellers have long believed that the appearance of a Mermaid in freshwater is a sign of good fortune. Loomes & Co are proving that, once again, watchmaking is flourishing at the sign of the Mermaid. • Robert Loomes Stamford Ltd, 4 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DW Info@robertloomes.com
Don’t miss! Four locally based artists have come together to create Winter Works, an exhibition at Stamford Arts Centre, November 22 – December 9. Denise Brown, Jeni Cairns (creator of the rusty wreath on our cover this month), Rene Viner and Christine Withall are showing beautifully atmospheric ceramics, sculpture and painting. Highly recommended. • Stamford Arts Centre, 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL Tel: 01780 763203 NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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NEWS, REVIEWS, EVENTS
New interiors shop opens in Oundle A
new shop which stocks country-inspired gifts for the home has opened on West Street, Oundle. Occupying the former site of Devines Deli, The Rounded House is owned by local resident Sam Harper. Following a successful year running her business as an online retailer, Sam was on the hunt to find the right premises from which to launch a shop. “I’ve always wanted to have my own shop so this is a dream come true,” says Sam, whose background is in sales. “We’re selling gorgeous items for the home and garden, as well as some lovely gifts. Lots of our stock is in beautiful muted colours and we have a lot of items at very affordable prices. So you can come in and buy tea lights from £1.95, or a gift for under a fiver to take to a dinner party. Equally, you could treat yourselves to new cushions, throws and furniture. We have some bake ware and crockery, lovely notebooks, pencil cases and make up bags which would make perfect Christmas presents.” Sam was inspired to start the business when she was refurbishing her own cottage in Oundle and could not find a one stop shop for the kind of stylish interiors products she loves. “All of the things we sell in The Rounded House are items I would love to have in my own home,” says Sam, who will also be selling homemade items such as cushions and lavender scented hearts. “I don’t stock anything I wouldn’t buy either for myself or as a gift. I can’t like something a bit for it to make it into my shop, I have to absolutely love it. That’s how I select my products and it’s a policy which has been working brilliantly so far.” • The Rounded House, 10b West St, Oundle PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 274687
We Love… Lilli’s Tea Room in Market Deeping Pop in for the most delicious homemade cakes and seasonal treats, brought to you by a team who previously worked together at The Riverside Café in Stamford. Try the Beetroot and Chocolate cake, marvellous malt loaf or tea and toasted crumpets, just perfect on a winter’s afternoon. • Market Gate, Market Deeping PE6 8DL
Thank you from Macmillan Cancer Support “W
ith your support, Macmillan were able to provide 99 people in the Peterborough area with a Macmillan grant totalling over £28,645 in 2013. With cost of a cancer diagnosis already extremely high (an estimated £570 a month) these grants are essential to provide extra bedding and fuel costs so people can feel more like themselves and carry out their treatment with dignity. However with the number of people living with cancer set to double by 2030, Macmillan Cancer Support needs the support of more local people living in the Peterborough area. By 2030, the number of people living with or beyond cancer in Cambridgeshire will fill Peterborough United football stadium four times over. No one should face cancer alone but we just can’t be there for everyone and we urgently need you to support our vital services in the local area. To donate, please text MACN60 and your amount to 70070. • If you’d like to get involved volunteering or fundraising, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or contact Jessica Levin on 07894 566608 or email jlevin@macmillan.org.uk
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ASK THE EXPERT Kerry Hilliard of Chartered Accountants Stephenson Smart explains how the use of a salary sacrifice scheme can help to mitigate the cost of pension auto-enrolment
I
f you own and manage a business, one of the most important developments affecting your business over the next two or three years will be the implementation of pension autoenrolment. Even the smallest of businesses will have to enrol their employees into a workplace pension and contribute towards it. An attractive option to mitigate the additional cost of autoenrolment might be to introduce a salary sacrifice arrangement. Salary sacrifice arrangements are not a new concept, they involve a contractual agreement between the employer and the employee whereby the employee agrees in advance to a reduction in salary in return for a non-cash benefit. Under salary sacrifice, an amount equivalent to the reduced salary is paid into the pension scheme by the employer on the employees behalf in addition to the employer’s contribution. The advantage is that a National Insurance contribution saving can be created for both the employer and the employee without any reduction in the employee’s take home pay or to the overall contributions paid into the pension scheme. It’s a win-win situation for both parties. If you are considering a salary sacrifice scheme, it’s worth remembering that these arrangements must be voluntary so employees need to opt in and their pay cannot be reduced below the Minimum Wage. It is also essential that the employee understands the potential effect of having a ‘lower salary’ in particular in relation to statutory payments such as Statutory Maternity Pay. • For more information or advice, contact Stephenson Smart & Co on 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com
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CafĂŠ Clarkes at the Key Theatre Christmas reservations now being taken.
Serving modern British cuisine.
Choose from a full A la carte menu every evening or for larger groups a Christmas Party menu is available.
Enjoy fresh British cuisine in a modern and vibrant setting while enjoying the views over the River Nene
Introductory offers available on Clarkes website. Bookings now being taken on 01733 561465
www.cafeclarkes.co.uk
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Bulwick Village Stores The small shop with the big welcome ----------------------
Main Street, Bulwick Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Tel: 01780 450774 ----------------------
* Essentials & speciality foods * Coffee/teas * Hot & cold snacks * Ready meals
Foxtail Lilly’s Christmas Brocante Saturday December 13th 10 – 3pm Free Entry Vintage and handmade stalls in the barn. 41 South Road, Oundle, PE8 4BP 01832 274593 www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk
Taste before you buy! Marmalades, chutneys, curds and jams from:
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!
13 Market Place, Oundle. T: 01832 273523 E: oundlebookshop@colemangroup.co.uk 10
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NEWS, REVIEWS, EVENTS
A Festive Recipe from The Pickled Village Camille Ortega McLean from The Pickled Village, Bulwick, shares her recipe for a luxurious fruity, suetfree mincemeat with a chilli kick! Makes about 4lb/2kg Ingredients • 250g soft dark brown sugar • 250ml medium dry cider • 750g cooking apples, peeled, halved and quartered • Half teaspoon mixed spice • Half teaspoon ground cinnamon • 500g dried mixed fruit • Half a jar of the Hot Blooded Breakfast (from The Pickled Village) • 75g blanched almonds • Zest and juice of half a lemon • Six tablespoons of brandy or rum
T
Method: Place the cider and sugar in a large saucepan and heat gently. Add the roughly chopped apples to the pan and stir well. Add the remaining ingredients apart from the brandy (or rum). Simmer for about 30 minutes until the mixture is soft and pulpy. Meanwhile, sterilise your jars and lids. Remove the mincemeat mixture from the heat and set aside to cool for five to ten minutes. Stir in the brandy or rum and transfer to the sterilised jars. Once the jars are filled and the lids well screwed on, invert them to improve the heat seal. Turn the jars the right way up when they are cool. The mincemeat can be used immediately after cooking if you wish, but improves with age and keeps well for a year or more. About Camille Ortega McLean: “I have an international background and years of experience in making preserves of all kinds. I am passionate about food, using the best ingredients available and enjoy cooking and pleasing those who eat my food. It’s a form of giving love to others. I showcase my products in Bulwick Village Stores, where I have a permanent tasting table. My idea is that customers should try before they buy. In fact, when customers taste they almost invariably buy but the problem is usually that they are not quite sure what to choose! • The Pickled Village, 15 Main Street, Bulwick, Northants, NN17 3DY Tel: 01780 450774 Opening times: Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. Sat 9.30 – 4.30. Tea terrace open daily.
Great gifts at Shrives Chemist, Peterborough S
Caught on Camera
hrives Chemist in Westgate, Peterborough is a great place to shop for gifts this season. Choose from a wide selection of women’s fragrances (with up to 65 per cent off recommended prices) and men’s aftershaves. You’ll find top names such as Cacharel, Hugo, Issey Miyake, Moschino and Calvin Klein as well as some old favourites including Charlie and Gloria Vanderbilt. Shrives also has an excellent selection of cameras, binoculars and photography equipment including tripods and camera bags. It is the only independent stockist of photography equipment now trading in Peterborough. Jez Williamson offers expert advice on choosing a camera, and stocks models suitable for novices and experienced photographers. If you are struggling with your camera, you can bring it in to the shop and he will help you to operate it effectively, and even give you some tips on taking better snaps too! • Shrives Chemist 14 Westgate, Peterborough PE1 1RA Tel: 01733 554319
Don’t miss: The Queensgate Gift Tree. Take a tag and buy a present for a child in need. Find the tree at the Customer Services point on the upper level of the mall.
here was a time when CCTV was an expensive commodity only used by the rich or the paranoid. Today the modern family is realising it is a sensible low cost deterrent to burglars and an invaluable tool should a burglar break in. CCTV can provide police with pictures which may quickly identify the thief leading to a swift arrest and retrieval of stolen property. Most people think that having an alarm system fitted is enough to stop them being burgled. It isn’t. Research shows that 57 per cent of burglaries are carried out while someone is at home, therefore an alarm system is likely to be switched off. Burglars are well aware that alarm systems are not always activated, and if they do go off it is unlikely that neighbours will take any notice. However, intruders realise the power of CCTV and reformed burglars will be the first to say that they will pass by a house with CCTV and move on to the next one they find without it. Crime statistics show that Stamford and surrounding villages are experiencing around 47 burglaries each month. Today’s hi-tech CCTV systems are easy to use and live images can be viewed on your tablet or smartphone 24/7. Peace of mind if you’re away from home. That burglary down the road or even next door could make you think you’ve got away with it. But burglars reoffend regularly in the same area. Today’s home CCTV packages don’t need special software and with fast speed broadband, you can log on to your remote viewable image from anywhere in the world. The infra-red cameras give a clear night vision and images are recorded for at least two weeks. Knowing that you are well protected can give a feeling of security and peace of mind. • For more information, contact Neil Walker at Pro Storm Solutions www.prostormsolutions.co.uk Tel: 01778 342323
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FOOD & DRINK
Food News Local food, drink and restaurant reviews
From the Riverford Kitchen Bacon, pear & blue cheese salad with honeyed walnuts & parsnip crisps
Want a lighter lunch or supper option over the festive season? Try this delicious salad. Serves 4 Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins Ingredients • 300g parsnips, peeled • Sunflower or vegetable oil • 1 pear, cored, quartered & very thinly sliced • 50g walnut pieces • 2 tsp honey • 1 tbsp good olive oil • 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• Splash of balsamic or sherry vinegar • 100g salad leaves • 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon, chopped into small pieces • 150g blue cheese e.g. Stilton
Method: 1. Use a veg peeler to shave thin long thin strips from the parsnips (you probably won’t be able to strip quite all of each parsnip, but use any odds and ends in soup). 2. Fill a deep fat fryer and heat to 180˚C. Once hot, add the parsnips in batches and fry for 11/2-2 mins, until just golden and crispy. Drain on kitchen paper. (If you don’t have a deep fat fryer you could use a large saucepan and a thermometer, but be very careful; it’s probably safer to roast chunks of parsnip instead.) 3. Use a fork to whisk the olive oil, mustard and a splash of vinegar in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Toss with the salad leaves and pears. Scatter the salad over a large serving plate. 4. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add the bacon and fry until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and scatter over the salad. 5. Add the walnuts to the same pan. Cook on a low heat for a min or so, then add the honey and stir so the honey sticks to the walnuts. 6. Sprinkle them over the salad, crumble over the blue cheese and top with the crispy parsnips. • Riverford Organic Farms Tel 01780 789700 to order a seasonal veg box.
NENE VALLEY LIVING RECOMMENDS
The Falcon, Fotheringhay W
hat better way to take shelter on a blustery, wet autumn day than the cocoonlike interior of The Falcon at Fotheringhay? The bar area where we studied the menu over a drink was warm and cosy with a blazing fire at one end. We liked the look of the value menu, two courses for £13.50 (not on Saturday evenings or Sundays). It is limited with three choices in each section, but represents excellent value and there were some appealing choices from head chef Peter Lane’s kitchen. Perry opted for the wild boar and pheasant terrine with orchard apple and onion chutney, followed by local game casserole with thyme dumplings and curly kale, and I chose the pan seared Rutland trout with potato rosti, green beans and horse radish cream. Our table was set in the pleasantly warm conservatory, with a view of the magnificent village church. I
an organic Riverford
Christmas veg, meat & all the trimmings
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appreciated the small details such as the large linen napkins and fresh flowers. Perry’s terrine arrived on a slate, with a thick slice of toast. It was an excellent terrine, well-seasoned and textured with chunks of meat. Our main courses were of similar high quality: my pan seared trout was especially good with a more-ish crispy skin, and flaky fish, complimented by the spicy horse radish cream, and a very appetising slice of potato rosti. Perry’s game casserole was a bowl of rustic flavours, with whole carrots and herby dumplings. The party at the table next door were pulling out all the stops for a birthday, with plates of sea bass with salmon mousse with new potatoes, samphire and razor clam and mussel sauce winging their way past us. The a la carte menu offers some fine dining without scrimping on portion size. For an extra £4 you can add a dessert to the set menu, and Perry did exactly this with his dark chocolate delice with white chocolate ice cream, on crushed honeycomb. It was beautifully presented and tasted just
fderliveerey
as good. But I much preferred my selection of orchard apple desserts. I loved the warm apple underneath a disc of sweet oatmeal biscuit, the apple crème brulee with caramelised topping and the little scoop of tart apple sorbet. A perfect autumn medley. We accompanied our meals with a pint of local Digfield ale and a half of cider, but there is an extensive and interesting wine list. At £35.20 for two, excluding service, we thought this was a really good deal. The Falcon is relaxed, but if you do want to celebrate an occasion, it feels special enough for that, too. Fiona Cumberpatch • The Falcon, Fotheringhay Tel: 01832 226254 info@thefalcon-inn.co.uk New Year’s Eve sees an ‘Old Falcon’ style carvery. Eat as much as you like for £50 per person. Booking essential.
all organic, no trolley rage, delivered free to your door www.riverford.co.uk 01803 762059
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Go East for your Christmas party and New Year celebrations
Celebrate in style this Christmas with our great festive menus. Our enchanting setting provides you with the perfect backdrop for all your magical celebrations.
Call us now for your reservation
Christmas menus available from 26th Nov - 24th Dec 2014
01780 784835
www.blackhorsenassington.co.uk
lunch & evening meals traditional sunday roast open log fire
Try our NEW Oriental Street Food Menu Two courses for a fantastic price of ÂŁ10 Available Sunday to Thursday from 2nd to 31st January 2015
Lunch 12-2:30pm Mon-Sat 12-3:30pm Sun (Buffet) Dinner 5:30-11pm Fri & Sat 5:30-10:30pm Sun -Thurs
fine cask ales christmas menu available
new years eve party Rocking night, free entry, 8 til late Live band The Delta Pilots - played at venues including The London Palladium, Wembley Arena and The Royal Albert Hall
Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP
Tel 01733 315 702 www.east-restaurant.co.uk
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THe ReD LioN Warmington
Tel: 01832 280362
A Great Country Pub • Real Home Produced Food • Homemade Desserts • Quality Real Ales • Candles, Fresh Flowers & Linen Napkins LuNCHTiMe SPeCiALS £8.95 - Tue – Sat early Doors Buy oNe meal & get another HALF PRiCe -6.00 - 6.30pm Tue – Sat (table clear by 8pm but only if required) The Famous Red Lion Sunday Lunch Serving at 12.00 noon, 1.00pm & 2.30pm (booking essential) New Garden Room Restaurant open Bookings now being taken for Christmas
Closed Mondays
theredlionwarmington@gmail.com www.theredlionwarmington.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK
Ginger and spice and all things nice… Candied, cooked, ground, grated, pickled or preserved…ginger has been consumed in its various different forms for centuries and is always resonant of the Christmas season. Sarah Lyon finds out where to source it locally Sparkling Ginger Belvoir Ginger cordial and pressé is produced in the Vale of Belvoir and made using organic root ginger. The pressé is refreshing and has a real kick to it. Add cordial to whisky to make a great ‘Whisky Mac’ for those cold winter nights. Pressé sold at Fine Food Store, St Mary’s Street, Stamford.
Cool Ginger Spicy and aromatic; chopped or grated ginger adds a special flavour to stuffing, sausage meat, fruit and vegetable dishes. Source root ginger and other root vegetables from the box scheme at Riverford Organic at Sacrewell Farm, PE8 6HJ, www.riverford. co.uk/sacrewell, Tel. 01780 789700 Ginger and Ginseng The Pickled Village produce a lemon with stem ginger and Siberian Ginseng marmalade; a heart boosting start to the morning.
Liquid Ginger A splash of gingerbread syrup in hot milk or an afternoon coffee from Fine Food Store, St Mary’s Street, Stamford - brings a sip of warmth and memories of hearth side moments. Candied, crystallised, stem, ground and fresh ginger is consumed as a delicacy, medicine or spice. With everything from fresh ginger, dried or crystallised to Ginseng try Silver Lane Wholefoods, 2 Silver Lane, Stamford, a small space richly stocked.
A Good Strong Bite Andy Heaps from the Bytham Kitchen produces a very sumptuous Carrot, ginger and garlic chutney. A best seller from the Cheese and Wine Cellar, Stamford or direct from Andy 07717 666422, twitter @ bythamkitchen, www.thebythamkitchen.co.uk Candied Ginger French artisan chocolates with special spices. Candied ginger with dark chocolate is part of the Spicy chocolate collection from Café au Chocolat in Ironmonger Street, Stamford
Cheese with Spice Snowdonia Ginger Spice cheddar with ginger and White Stilton with Mango and Ginger from Long Clawson Dairy in the Vale are seasonal winners. Sweet and refreshing mango pieces and spicy crystallised ginger burst through White Stilton to warm the taste buds. Serve on ginger biscuits with crème fraîche for a quick and tasty dessert, and pair with a medium white wine. Find at the Stamford Cheese and Wine Cellar, St Mary’s Street, Stamford.
Hot and Steamy Ginger Piping hot Ginger & Figgy pudding, rhubarb & ginger, pear & ginger from Pudding & Pie is just the right choice for the festive table. Stocking some puddings at Stamford Delicatessen (across from M&S on the high street), Tel: 01780 755772; Brew Babu and Seven Wells Butchers, Oundle; The Deli in Uppingham; Stamford Christmas Market – Nov 30; Oundle Christmas Market – Dec 6.
Snappy Ginger The Ginger Snapper Curd, a mellow all butter stem ginger luscious curd with stem ginger bite, it adds a mellow warmth to our morning toast or stir a couple of spoonfuls into the custard for the Christmas pudding for extra oomph! The Pickled Village, 17 Main Street, Bulwick NN17 3DY, www.thepickledvillage.co.uk Ginger heavy Piccalilli Chef and Patron, James of the King’s Arms Inn, Wing in Rutland creates a seasonal piccalilli made with all the available brassicas – squashes, carrots and pickling onions; which he describes as “quite ginger-y, heavy and very satisfying to make, bottle, mature and enjoy all winter long with some meats or cheeses.” Tel. 01572 737634
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SHOPPING
My perfect gift Haven’t done all your Christmas shopping yet? Help is at hand as Lucy Banwell asks six local retailers to choose the ideal present Portraits by Lesley Anne Churchill
Roger Aron, Charles Bright Jewellers, Peterborough What’s the perfect Christmas gift? We have a new range of jewellery called The Rhythm of Love. There’s a lovely 18 carat white gold pendant featuring a diamond which oscillates to improve the sparkle. It costs £1,499 and would make the perfect gift for a loved one this Christmas. Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? I don’t mind it if it doesn’t go on too long! My wife is very good at buying bits throughout the year so I must admit the pressure isn’t on me too much. We shop in Peterborough. John Lewis is good but I like to support the independent shops, too. What do you love most about Christmas? Being with the family. I love getting together with my children and grandchildren. This year we’ll be at home in Peterborough with everyone coming to us. What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? A Meccano set I got when I was six years old. I remember being very excited when I unwrapped it. It was from my Uncle Charles who used to push the boat out at Christmas. I could always rely on him for a good present!
Stuart Blow, Stu-pots, Oundle What’s the perfect Christmas gift? Our Morphy Richards food mixer takes all the hard work out of baking and is now available at a sensible price. £199.99 reduced from £499.99. The red version looks really festive. It also comes in cream and black.
them some toys or clothes. I also use Oundle Bookshop, Crackers and Colemans. I also love picking up bits at the Christmas Market (on December 6). There’s always a nice atmosphere, a bit of a buzz, which really gets you in the mood for Christmas.
Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? Yes, I do. I like to shop locally for presents. I have young nephews and neices to buy for, so I’ll go to KikiSams in West St, Oundle and get
What do you love most about Christmas? Getting together with the family. On Christmas Day this year I’ll be going to my sister’s. She’s a really good cook so I’ll look forward to the food!
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We’ll start with some Bucks Fizz and then tuck into a traditional Christmas dinner. I also enjoy the annual carol service at the United Reformed Church in Stamford. What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? A Hornby train set when I was about nine years old. I absolutely loved it. My brothers and I played with it for hours until we managed to blow it up by mistake!
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Sam Hitchborn, The Oundle Candy Co, Oundle What’s the perfect Christmas gift? Something that can be shared. How about one of The Oundle Candy Co’s baskets of chocolates, novelties and tasty treats which will put a smile on everyone’s face? Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? Yes. It’s a really fun way to get into the Christmas spirit. For smaller items Oundle has some lovely shops. Crackers is great for stocking fillers. What do you love most about Christmas? Watching my boys’ faces on Christmas morning as they open their stockings. Theo is 3 and Luke is 2. I also love spending time with my loved ones away from the madness of day to day life and appreciating what we have. What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? My little boy who was born a couple of days before Christmas. Being able to take him home and spend Christmas with the rest of the family was a truly wonderful gift.
Barbara Katavich, Asha’s Attire and Asha’s Inspired Living, Oundle What’s the perfect Christmas gift? A candle especially blended for Asha’s from soya wax and perfumes of the highest quality. Maple and Cinnamon would be the perfect Christmas fragrance. Priced at £18.95 and beautifully packaged, it would perfume the house for the entire Christmas season. Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? I am on the lookout for unique gifts throughout the year. My partner Tony is absolutely fanatical about Christmas. His countdown begins on 1st January! We enter into the spirit of the occasion when Christmas shopping, eating out and going to a show or the cinema at the end of the day. What do you love most about Christmas? Finding the perfect gift and presenting it perfectly wrapped. I also love Christmas music, especially Nat King Cole’s Christmas Album. This year I will be at home with family - and our stunning Persian cat Vida - opening presents in front of a roaring fire. What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? Last year Tony gave me something from my ‘Wish List’ - afternoon tea at The Ritz. It was brilliant and I’m hoping to cross another one off the list this year! NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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SHOPPING
Dawn BirchJames, Art in the Heart, Peterborough What’s the perfect Christmas gift? A large figurative original from my art gallery by Hilary Dunne who uses vibrant oils, mixed media and gold and palladium leaf. There’s one called ‘The Chess Players’ which is stunning and costs £2,500. Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? Not really, but I love giving gifts to people. I shop at Art in the Heart because I know my family and friends won’t have seen anything like the items we have here. We stock almost exclusively pieces which have been created by artists from the area or by fair trade cooperatives. I’m passionate about keeping money in the local area. I don’t really buy too many presents - just some for very close family and friends – it all becomes too obscene otherwise. What do you love most about Christmas? Not having to think about work, having a lovely Christmas lunch with the family and laughing until we cry. Last year my husband Tony and my children William, 22, and Charlotte, 14, headed down to Tetbury in the Cotswolds where my sister lives. Because her cottage is small, we spent Christmas in a lovely local hotel enjoying our gifts, singing and dancing. This year we will be repeating the treat. No preparing vegetables and no washing up! What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? A large early 20th Century print of Botticelli’s Birth of Venus in the most amazing gilt frame. My husband bought it for me and I never tire of it.
Fi Smallridge, The Small Bread Company, Oundle What’s the perfect Christmas gift? One of my Bread Baking Gift Certificates. £65 if purchased by 24th December. Our baking classes will be running twice a month in 2015. Do you enjoy Christmas shopping? Yes, I love it! I just wish I had more time to trawl the shops. My husband David and I like to shop together the old-fashioned way, in actual shops. Although we do shop online sometimes for
larger items. You’ll be able to get last minute treats from the The Small Bread Company right up until 2pm on Christmas Eve! What do you love most about Christmas? I love decorating our Christmas tree. I put on lots of twinkly white lights and hang all the decorations I’ve collected over the years. I also enjoy watching my boys Oliver, 10, and Zachary, 8, opening their presents. And I love the smell
of a roast dinner filling the house while I watch a Christmas movie. What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? My best present was opening The Small Bread Company shop in Oundle a year ago. This year’s Christmas Market on 6th December will mark the anniversary of our grand opening. NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
‘Tis the Season… Sue Dobson finds an array of Christmas markets and fairs in our area and has suggestions for some good days out further afield
Make a day of it – take the train to: London
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ROWSING the stalls and chatting with traders and craftspeople is all part of the pleasure of shopping at festive markets and fairs. With so many events and opportunities to ‘shop local’, we’re spoilt for choice.
Peterborough Amid an array of gifts, arts, crafts and clothing at Peterborough’s traditional Christmas Market on Cathedral Square, you’ll find a food court featuring warming hog roast, duck wraps, sweet Spanish churros, British sausages and speciality coffee. The market is open daily from December 10 - 23, 10am to 6pm, with the tavern bar and food court open until 9pm each Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Also on Cathedral Square, the Handmade at St John’s Craft Fayre sees talented local crafters displaying some wonderfully imaginative gift ideas from 10am to 3pm on Saturdays 6th and 13th. Mulled wine, mince pies, carol singing, bell ringing and a visit by Santa are all part of the Christmas Market featuring over 60 stalls at Pigeon’s Farm. Head to The Lindens, Wisbech Road, Thorney PE6 0TD on Sunday December 7 between 10am and 4pm. The following Saturday, 13th, from 11am to 4pm, Ferry Meadows Country Park gets festive for its Christmas Fair, which includes a crafts market, carol singing and Santa’s workshop. Both are very family-friendly events.
Oundle Famed for its foodie content, the Oundle Christmas market features over 60 stalls spanning everything from scarves and jewellery to charcuterie and cakes, plus fairground rides for children. It’s on from 12 noon to 7pm on December 6. • Diary date: On Wednesday December 17, Oundle is having a late night shopping event for men (and offering a gift wrapping service, too).
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King’s Cliffe Transition King Cliffe’s annual Christmas Fayre is a favourite among people who love the local crafts, jams and preserves for sale at this happy community event. It’s on November 30 in the Village Hall from 11am4pm.
Stamford Stamford’s Christmas kicks off with a Festival on November 30 between 10am and 6pm, with shopping opportunities and masses of entertainments all over town. Burghley House is packed with possibilities that weekend, too. Their Christmas Fair, November 27-30, promises stunning fashions, elegant accessories and dazzling jewellery. On November 29 and 30, the Burghley Fine Food Market hosts 30 local suppliers offering handmade cheeses, artisan breads, rare breed meats and luxury treats. Meet designers and makers from the Stamford Artisans Guild at their popular Locally Crafted Christmas Shopping Event on December 7, 10am to 4pm, at the Stamford Arts Centre.
Benefield The Benefield Christmas Tree Festival on December 14 is a lovely community event that sees 43 individually decorated trees displayed above the pews in St Mary’s Church, Lower Benefield, plus crafts and cake stalls, refreshments and performances by local musicians.
Wisbech The Victorian Christmas Market in Wisbech boasts over 100 stalls and attractions, with visits from Santa and his reindeer plus street entertainers that include stilt walkers, bands and Penny Farthing cyclists. It’s on Monday December 15 from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Why? Winter Wonderland When? Daily to 4th January, 10am-10pm (closed Christmas Day) Where? Hyde Park. Entry is free Over 200 fairy lit wooden chalets compete for attention amid fairground rides, grottos and glühwein, a vast ice rink, Victorian bandstand, two circuses, a giant wheel and some spectacular food and drink opportunities. www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Why? Christmas at Kew When? 3rd-7th, 10th-14th, 17th-23rd December and 26th to 3rd January, 5pm-10pm. Book timed tickets on www.kew.org/christmas or Tel: 0844 995 9675 Where? Kew Gardens, Kew Road TW9 3AB Guided by snowflakes, a magical one-mile meander on a glittering trail between waterside reflections, illuminated fountains, giant light sculptures and plumes of fire dancing to festive music.
Lincoln Why? Christmas Market When? 4th December, 12pm-9.30pm; 5th and 6th, 10am-9.30pm, 7th 10am-7pm Where? Lincoln’s historic centre around the Cathedral and Castle Featuring over 200 stalls offering myriad foodie treats, traditional German decorations and locally created art and crafts in a spectacular setting. http://lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk
York Why? St Nicholas Fair When? Daily to 21st December, 9am-6pm Where? York city centre. Free Snug wooden huts and market stalls feature food, sparkles and toys, with stallholders in Dickensian costume selling an array of gifts and decorations. www.visityork.org
Birmingham Why? Frankfurt Christmas Market & Craft Fair When? Daily to 22nd December, 10am-9pm Where? Victoria, Chamberlain and Centenary Squares. Free The UK’s largest outdoor Christmas Market has 180 stalls selling traditional gifts, toys and decorations, accompanied by bratwurst, beer and warming glüwein. Local artisans exhibit in the adjacent crafts market. www.visitbirmingham.com
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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
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Doorstops, draught excluders and much much more! Purchase locally at: Lakeland l Van Hage l Dobbies l John Lewis Sinclairs l Burghley House l Jupes Portess of Oakham l Gates Garden Centre Sarah Harding Interiors l Waterside Garden Centre or contact Dora Designs directly
w: www.doradesigns.co.uk l t: 01733 305452 l f: 08432 161879 l e: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK
Blue Cheese Dressing Will Stilton cheese ever again be legally made in and sold under the name of the famous village near Peterborough which bears its name? A group of campaigners hope so - and have a new weapon in their battle. Jonathan Craymer reports
Above: Richard Landy (l) and Liam McGivern at The Bell with Village Blue cheese. Left: Richard and Liam with original Roman cheese mould. Below: Richard with old Stilton cheese recipe published by Prof Richard Bradley.
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S you sit down to polish off a meal with a traditional chunk of finest crumbly Stilton this Christmas, spare a thought for a band of enthusiasts from Stilton who feel a tad cheesed off. They feel aggrieved that no-one is allowed to produce and sell cheese labelled ‘Stilton’, unless it’s been made under UK and EU PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) regulations in a certain way in Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire or Derbyshire. The ‘Support Our Stilton’ (SOS) group wants to win back the right to have the distinctive blue-veined cheese made and sold in their village under the name Stilton. They claim they have the right to do this based on research in 2009 showing the cheese was first made in Stilton in the early 18th century, and not in Melton Mowbray as many believe. Since then the SOS group has done a number of things to draw attention to its campaign – including the creation of a Stilton shoe, a Stilton tune, and now a Stilton coat, made of bouclé fabric, printed to look like the cheese itself. Campaigner Richard Landy, a potter, part-time arts teacher in London and Stilton resident explains: “We’re trying to beat the ‘official’ Stilton makers at their own game. A few years ago they created a Stilton dress and a perfume. We’re now hitting back with a Stilton coat – created by fashion designer Ann Foxley from Hampton.” The 2009 research was carried out by Richard and others when preparing a booklet on Cooper Thornhill, the 18th century landlord of the Bell Inn, who died 250 years previously. “Stilton cheese had not only been made in Stilton before the now ‘official’ Stilton cheese, some kind of cheese was made here in Roman times,” says Richard, who owns a Roman cheese-making pot. Their campaign is supported by Shailesh Vara, MP for North West Cambridgeshire, and they have permission from local Trading Standards officers to sell blue cheese made locally under the heading of ‘Village Blue’. But that’s not enough, so the group applied for
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Ann Foxley’s stilton coat
Stilton village to be included in the PDO origin area to Defra, the Department for Food and Rural Affairs, in June 2013. After a 12-week public consultation it was turned down on a technicality. Liam McGivern, owner of the famous coaching inn who’s been working closely with Richard, says: “Stilton cheese is the only product in the whole of the EU which can’t be made in the place it’s named after! It’s not available to the general public, but any we do sell we have to call ‘Village Blue from Stilton!’” During his research Richard enjoyed something of a Google Eureka moment. At first the search engine didn’t come up with much on the origins of Stilton cheese - until he remembered that in old documents the letter S often looked like an F. Using the search term ‘Ftilton’ opened the floodgates.
One of the things he found was an original Stilton cheese recipe apparently sent to Richard Bradley, the first Professor of Botany at Cambridge University, by a horticulturalist friend. Bradley published it in his 18th-century book ‘A General Treatise on Husbandry and Gardening’, stating that not only was Stilton cheese made in Stilton, the best tasting one was produced by the Bell Inn. And all this predates the making of Stilton in Leicestershire. But Nigel White, Secretary of the Surbitonbased Stilton Cheesemaker’s Association told NVL: “Even if Stilton cheese was made in the Stilton area before it was made in Melton Mowbray, the PDO is about preserving traditional recipes. The people of Stilton can hardly claim they’ve preserved anything, as there’s been a break of 250 years in cheesemaking in the village!”
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FASHION
Putting on It’s always nice to have some new party wear to help shine through the festive season and this year more then ever it’s about sequins, sparkle and bright colour. Sally Stillingfleet has tried to avoid the little black dress, unless accessorised with eye-catching statement jewellery – so that you can stand out from the crowd. The Delcor showroom provides the perfect setting, rich velvet, linens and leather upholstery contemporarily crafted - a decadent stylish showroom to partner partywear.
the glitz
Glamorous print jumpsuit £40 and new brand Bourne jacket £155 both Energy, YSL high heels £190 Arch Label Agency. Ted Baker 50s style full skirt £139, worn with T shirt £39 both from John Lewis
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Tori Burch gold sequined dress £150 Arch Label Agency
Green silk Almost Famous dress £215 Attic, worn with Rogers & Rogers earrings from a selection at Paradise Found
CONTACTS John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough. Tel. 01733 344644 Energy, 9 Ironmonger St, Stamford Tel. 01780 765633 Attic, 33 St. Mary’s St, Stamford Tel. 01780 766667 Arch Label Agency, 43 St. Peter’s Street, Stamford Tel. 01780 764746 Paradise Found, 34 St Mary’s St, Stamford. Tel. 01780 764439 Pictures by Elli Dean (07932 055548 ) www.ellideanphotography.co.uk Delcor – Bath Row, Rear of St. Mary’s Hill, Stamford. Tel. 01780 762 579 www.delcor.co.uk Faith Bailey, owner of Perch and Preen created an evening make-up but kept it neutral using pale golds and a nude lip in order to go with every outfit. Faith’s drop-in salon is so handy. A full make-up at Perch and Preen is £25 as well as all the usual treatments on a no appointment needed basis. Lindsey is currently at Thomas and Thomas in Melton Mowbray. Initially she specialised in creative hair-ups, so was great to style Sarah’s long hair. She created soft waves, which were then swept up later on, a great look for glamorous eveningwear. Lindsey Baker – Thomas and Thomas, 2 High Street, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. Tel. 016645 66812 Follow Perch and Preen on Facebook. Many thanks to Sarah for kindly agreeing to model for me.
Postcard from Brighton black lace dress £99 and Bourne jacket £155 both Energy. Lanvin necklace £290 Arch Label Agency.
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FOOD & DRINK
A locally sourced Christmas dinner Make shopping for your Christmas dinner a delight, says Yasmin Bradley. All photos: Riverford
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HOPPING for Christmas dinner the old-fashioned way is a joyful process as you chat, share a joke and pick up culinary tips. The essence of Christmas cooking is all about sharing delicious things to eat and drink, continuing culinary traditions and bringing back memories of happy occasions of the past. It is fun, nevertheless, to add a few new twists - maybe borrow from other cultural traditions that in turn become part of your own. So what’s on the menu for your Christmas dinner? For meat-eaters, the turkey still holds pride of place on many Christmas tables. Order from your local butcher in advance and enjoy weeks of delicious anticipation leafing through recipes, planning stuffings, vegetable accompaniments and trimmings safe in the knowledge that you will not be battling through the crowds on Christmas Eve for the last remaining free-range bird. Depending on your diners’ appetites of course, an eight kilo turkey should feed twelve. Your high street butcher can always advise. “Why not a try a goose?” suggests Martin Trendall of Trendall’s in Oundle. More people, it seems, are opting for this traditional British - and European seasonal treat. “Yes, you do need to buy more per person but the meat is dark and succulent and Christmas time is when they are available,” says Martin. Near Grantham, the picturesque sight of these geese being herded through the village to graze has become something of an attraction – not so very different to Northamptonshire poet John Clare’s day when flocks of geese were driven south along the Bullock Road for their final fattening. A beautiful joint of locally reared beef also takes some beating. Seven Wells in Oundle sources deliciously tender and tasty meat from their own farm. Don’t forget to stock up on their flavoursome chipolatas and bacon to make traditional pigs in blankets. “Local butchers also buy up cattle sold at the annual Christmas
Thrapston and Northampton Fat Stock Show in November that will have spent all summer grazing the Nene valley,” explains Haddon cattle farmer, John Martin.
Go for game
We are fortunate in the Nene valley to have a number of local butchers with a licence to sell game including Willow Brook Farm near Helpston, where you can relax with coffee or mulled wine after your shop, or Bell’s Butchers and Smokehouse in Warmington. Dine like a medieval king at Christmas on roast venison, pheasant or partridge pre-marinated in red wine, garlic, shallots, fragrant herbs and juniper berries, and don’t forget the wonderful selection of hams, game and pork pies. For an absolutely delicious stuffing that doubles up as a vegetarian option, take a leaf from Jane Grigson’s superb recipe book English Food. Her recipe is a fragrant mixture of chopped, roasted hazelnuts, onions, preserved ginger, breadcrumbs, egg and lemon. Also great cold - if there is any left. Be adventurous with your Christmas vegetables too! Try roasting butternut squash – as in Australia - alongside parsnips or sweet potato. You either love or hate the slight bitterness of sprouts which some think a compliment to the rich tastes. How about black kale as a different and delicious alternative - or addition? J Atkinson & Son at the market in Oundle sell all manner of wonderfully fresh seasonal vegetables at great prices every Thursday; at Peterborough City Market find a whole range of traditional and exotic vegetables for sale. For organics, pre-order from Riverford, based at Thornhaugh, or just get imaginative with the seasonal contents in your weekly organic veggie-box - the flavour really is how you remember good vegetables used to taste. NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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FOOD & DRINK
Where to buy Bell’s Butchers & Game Dealers Hautboy Lane, Warmington, PE8 6TQ 01832 280216 www.warmington.org/index.php/services/ butchers English Food by Jane Grigson ISBN: 9780140273243 Food Emporium Van Hage Peterborough Garden Park, Peterborough Road, Eye, Peterborough, PE1 4YZ 0845 464 7484 www.peterboroughgardenpark.co.uk/ shopping/van-hage-food-emporium.html
Spice it up
Jane Grigson suggests unusual recipes for medlar, rowan and cranberry jellies. Otherwise, cover and cook fresh or frozen cranberries straight from the freezer in water, add golden caster sugar, bay leaf and cinnamon to make your own delicious sauce. Or choose from a selection of readymade preserves in Seven Wells, Trendalls or The Small Bread Company, Oundle. For a quick special touch, decorate with seasonal lids and labels from Stu-Pots cook shop, also in Oundle. The Small Bread Company stocks a range of absolutely scrumptious-looking and tasting artisanal bread and cakes. Go French with a flûte and Bavarian with sour dough or rye: every self-respecting Continental mops up the very last drop of delicious “jus” in all but the most formal of dinners. For a short time only, the famous Stilton and Cranberry loaf is on offer too, along with mince pies and puddings. After a rich main course, a break is sometimes needed before pudding. Treat yourselves to German stollen - a light, yeast-dough cake with dried fruit and often marzipan in the middle - or spicy Nuremberger gingerbread with freshly brewed coffee. No need to book a trip to a German Christmas market as lots of the delicious goodies are available to buy locally at the Food Emporium in Van Hage, Peterborough Garden Park or The King’s Arms, Polebrook. Set the table with vintage linen, glass and cutlery and the mood with candles. The final stop is Asha’s Inspired Living for one of their delicious Christmas scented candles. Bon appétit!
The King’s Arms Kings Arms Lane, Polebrook, PE8 5LW, 1832 272363 www.thekingsarms-polebrook.co.uk Oundle Town Market Every Thursday. Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BQ www.oundle.gov.uk/general-market.html Peterborough City Market Tuesday – Saturday Northminster, Peterborough, PE1 1AY Riverford Organic Vegetables 01803 762059 www.riverford.co.uk/shop/ christmas?tldr=tldr/ Seven Wells Farm Foods 8 West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EF www.sevenwells.co.uk/ 01832 273522 Stu-Pots 36 Market Pl, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4BE 01832 275414 www.stu-pots.co.uk/ Trendall’s Butchers and Delicatessen 2 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BQ, 01832 273503 www.trendalls-butchers.co.uk/ Willow Brook Farm Shop: Traditional Butchers and Tea Shop Stamford Road, Helpston Heath, Peterborough, PE6 7EL 01780 740001/ 07718971900 www.willowbrookfarmshop.co.uk/
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THE LAMPSHADE WAREHOUSE LIGHTING OUTLET
Est.1986
The Largest Independent Lighting Showroom in Cambridgeshire
Opening Hours Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-4 The Lampshade Warehouse Lighting Outlet
10 Saville Road, Westwood, Peterborough, PE3 7PR
01733 264391
w w w. t h e l a m p s h a d e w a r e h o u s e . c o . u k 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.
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EVENTS
The sounds of
CHRISTMAS From carols to concerts, in settings simple and grand, Sue Dobson suggests wonderful ways to celebrate this joyous season
T
raditional carols, glorious choral works and popular seasonal songs feature in the many musical events in our region this month.
Concerts and Choirs Christmas Magic at The Broadway Theatre A feast of sound as Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir – a massed choir of over 200 voices – together with the Peterborough Festival Orchestra perform a Christmas extravaganza. The concert will include traditional carols such as Ding Dong Merrily on High and O Come All Ye Faithful as well as popular favourites, including The Christmas Song, Winter Wonderland, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Santa Baby and Mary’s Boy Child. A great way to get into the festive mood. Sunday December 21 at 7.30pm, Broadway Theatre, Peterborough PE1 1RT. Tickets available from Peterborough Visitor Information Centre, by phone on Tel: 0333 666 3366, or online at www. peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk Christmas Concert at Peterborough Cathedral John Rutter’s ‘Gloria’ is the centrepiece of the Peterborough Cathedral Music Association’s concert with Christmas carols, performed by the Cathedral Choir, Youth Choir and Festival Chorus and accompanied by the Cambridge-based brass ensemble, Prime Brass. With the Cathedral’s festive atmosphere and the fine acoustics, it will be a memorable occasion. Friday December 19 at 7.30pm. Tickets available from Stamford Arts Centre, Tel: 01780 763203, the Peterborough Visitor Destination Centre, Tel: 01733 452336, or through www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk Carol Concert in Werrington William Law Primary School is hosting the Peterborough Choral Society in a Christmas concert for parents and friends. Expect a selection of carols from both the choir and the school, and the opportunity to join in. Tuesday December 9 at 6.30pm. William Law CE Primary School, Twelvetree Avenue, Werrington PE4 5DT Christmas Concert in Netherton With a programme that includes Christmas music and readings, the mixed voice Gildenburgh Choir will also be welcoming the audience to participate in singing carols. Saturday December 13 at 7.30pm. St Andrew’s United Reformed Church, Ledbury Road, Peterborough PE3 9RF. Tickets available from David Perkins, Tel: 01778 343158 or email via the website www.gildenburgh.t15.org
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Over 200 voices from three choirs take the stage for Christmas Magic at the Broadway Theatre
John Rutter’s popular ‘Gloria’ is a highlight of the Peterborough Cathedral Music Association’s Christmas concert at Peterborough Cathedral. The choirs will be accompanied by the Prime Brass ensemble from Cambridge
Peterborough Cathedral
The Gildenburgh Choir presents a Christmas concert in Netherton
Lessons and Carols at Fotheringhay Hear glorious music and traditional readings at the annual service for the Richard III Society, sung by St Peter’s Singers, a mixed chamber choir with a wide-ranging repertoire spanning eight centuries. Featuring music by Bach, Poulenc, Howells and their Musical Director, George Haynes, the choir will also sing a Carol that they commissioned this year from the young composer Owain Park, currently organ St Peter’s Singers scholar at Trinity College, Cambridge. Saturday December 13 at 3pm. Church of St Mary & All Saints, Fotheringhay PE8 5HZ. Tickets on the door or via the website www.stpeterssingers.org.uk
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Theatre events Carols by Candlelight at Key Theatre Dressed in lavish period costume, the charismatic Locrian Ensemble perform carols, medleys of familiar Christmas tunes and some seasonal surprises. They are joined by West End stage soprano Jill Washington singing favourites that span excerpts from Handel’s Messiah to White Christmas and Walking in the Air. Monday December 22 at 7.30pm. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough PE1 1EF. Box office Tel: 01733 207239. www.vivacitypeterborough.com/venues/key-theatre That’ll Be The Day at The Cresset The Brand New 2014 Christmas Show from the popular rock ’n’ roll variety showstoppers, That’ll Be The Day promises knock-out hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s spiced with zany comedy routines. Thursday December 4 at 7.30pm. The Cresset, Rightwell, Bretton, Peterborough PE3 8DX. Box office Tel: 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk
Join in – carol singing for all Business Workers’ and Shoppers’ Carols Take a break on Thursday December 18 at 1pm. Pop into Peterborough Cathedral to sing traditional Christmas carols, led by members of the Cathedral choir, and hear short readings that tell the Christmas story, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the South Transept. www.peterboroughcathedral.org.uk Carols in the Kitchen Wrap up warm and head to Lyveden for a friendly, festive carol singing event inside the New Bield. Staff and volunteers at this mysterious Elizabethan lodge will be on hand to offer carol sheets, mulled wine and a warm welcome with a Peterborough choir adding to the musical atmosphere. A real community event, it’s on Saturday December 20 at 2pm. Lyveden New Bield, near Oundle, PE8 5AT. Tel: 01832 205158. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lyveden-new-bield
Holkham Hall’s spectacular Marble Hall decorated for Christmas
Be part of the family carol concert in the Great Hall at Burghley House Photo: Burghley House
Stamford sings
Christmas Services at Peterborough Cathedral Christingle December 1 Service Advent Procession: a candlelit service with procession, readings and music, led by the Cathedral Choir December 20 Christingle Service for young children and families: with seasonal readings, carols and other music December 24 Christmas Eve: 4pm Service of Readings and Carols; 8pm Bethlehem Now!, carols with the Salvation Army Band of Peterborough; 11.30pm Midnight Eucharist December 25 Christmas Day 8am Holy Communion; 10am Matins; 11am Cathedral Eucharist; 3.30pm Festival Evensong and Procession.
Music at St Martin’s The excellent Stamford Singers, a mixed chamber choir that performs nationally and internationally, present Deo Gracias, their Christmas concert with a selection of carols and Christmas music sung by the choir, organ music suited to the season and audience participation carols. The music will focus either on the true meaning of Christmas or the joy and festivity associated with Christmas celebrations. Sunday December 14 at 6pm. St Martin’s Church, High Street, Stamford PE9 2LF www. musicatstmartins.org www.stamfordsingers.org
Family carol concert at Burghley House Favourite carols and Christmas music performed by The Cantus Choir and Orchestra, together with the young soprano Miranda Heldt and audience participation, add up to a sparkling festive family evening in the decorated Great Hall. Wednesday December 17, starting with drinks in the Orangery at 6pm. Burghley House, Stamford PE9 3JY. Tel: 01780 752451. Buy tickets through the website www.burghley.co.uk Advent Calendar at The Town Hall With a programme of 24 short pieces, “like an Advent calendar”, St Martin’s Singers offer a Christmas concert of choral music and solos. This Stamford women’s voices choir is known for some enjoyable surprises in its selection of music. Wednesday December 17 at 7.30pm. The Town Hall, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DR. Tickets from. www.smartsingers.org Sound the Trumpet at St John’s Church Enjoy a concert of festive arias and sparkling trumpet tunes in this lovely medieval church with fine acoustics. Featuring classical soprano Caroline Sharpe, trumpeter Andy Harris and organist Fergus Black, the programme includes the Te Deum Prelude by Charpentier, Let the Bright Seraphim and a Christmas cantata by Telemann. Saturday December 20 at St John’s Church, St John’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DB. Tickets from Stamford Arts Centre, Tel: 01780 763203.
Worth the trip Holkham Hall The grand Marble Hall, beautifully bedecked for Christmas, is the setting for performances of magical music by The Upper Octave and Diva Opera. Mischievous ukulele-playing elves inhabit the courtyard, choirs; bellringers, storytellers and costumed characters entertain, while the guided candlelight tours of the stunning Palladian hall, dressed to impress in all its Christmas finery, are especially memorable. Holkham Estate, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AB. Tel: 01328 713111. For dates, times and to book events see www.holkham.co.uk
Peckover House and Garden Pianists, a guitarist, a local choir and members of Peterborough’s Beauvale Ensemble playing early music on authentic instruments will be entertaining visitors to A Christmas Celebration that sees selected rooms in the elegant Georgian house decorated with Christmas trees and festive floral arrangements. Open 6th-9th, 13th and December 14, 12 noon to 5pm. Peckover House, North Brink, Wisbech PE13 1JR. Tel: 01945 583463. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ peckover-house NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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WELLBEING
Health & Beauty Notes Look after yourself this winter with treatments from local health and beauty businesses. Words: Bridget Steele
E G A S S A M C I T S I L HO
S
a-Bai-Gai is a Traditional Thai Medical Massage business run by husband and wife team Mick and Phen Lewis from their new shop at 10c West Street, Oundle. Traditional Thai Medical Massage is an ancient form of bodywork practiced in Thailand for many hundreds of years. It is used routinely in Thai hospitals as part of the normal practice for treatment of a variety of conditions and ailments, alongside and complimentary to western physiotherapy. Mick and Phen’s business is dedicated to helping clients with problems arising from the problems of everyday life such as, stress or tension, sleeplessness, headaches, migraine, shoulder pain, backache, foot and leg problems, PMS, sports related injuries or if you just need some relaxation. Sa-Bai-Gai offer a range of massages:• Head, shoulder, arms and upper back massage • General body massage • Traditional Thai full body massage • Foot and Leg massage with reflexology • Antenatal and postnatal massage • Sports related injury and stress massage • Herbal massage • 10c West Street, Oundle, Peterborough Tuesday to Saturday – 9am to 5.00 pm Tel: Evening 01832 358471 Day 07952 551833 Web: www.sabaigai.co.uk
Naturelle Nails Natural Nails in Newborough has been taken over by Jo Gavaghan and the business is now called Naturelle Nails. Jo worked with Tracy Maddox for many years to build up a highly reputable nail and beauty business. Tracy is now on hand at the salon to train therapists in LCN. Gail Brinkley, Lisa Thurston and Leesan Thompson have joined Jo to offer a wide range of LCN and Natural Nail treatments for hands and feet. There are many beautiful shades to choose from and this year the nudes and dark shades are popular, with a new more pointed shape. The salon offers waxing, eye lash and brow tinting, lash extensions, facials, body massage and air brush make up. I liked the look of the winter warmer offer that includes an express facial, neck, back and shoulder massage and UV polish on nails or toes for £50. • There is an introductory offer for LCN Nail treatments with Leesan for £29.50 on your first visit. For more information contact Naturelle Nails and Beauty, 42 School Road, Newborough, Peterborough, PE6 7RG Tel: 01733 810071. Naturelle Nails and Beauty is also on Facebook.
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Praise for Lipofirm treatments
Lisa Claypole at Elysia Health and Beauty in Tansor started offering Lipofirm non surgical treatments this year. The treatment is used for inch loss, body contouring, face and body skin tightening using Mono Polar Radio frequency that gives outstanding results. Here is just some of the feedback that Lisa has received from clients: “I was 40 when my son was delivered by C-Section. Post-pregnancy I retained a bit of weight and this had created an unsightly crease over my C-Section scar. Over the next three years I had tried diets and exercise to improve the crease, but nothing worked. In August 2014 I came across Elysia Health and Beauty’s Lipofirm treatments. I called to discuss the treatment and I was so impressed, I booked an appointment there and then. From the first treatment I lost 8cm and over the next eight weeks I have lost an amazing 30 cm. I would thoroughly recommend Lisa and her team to anyone considering Lipofirm or any other therapy treatments. “ Victoria “I am quite slim but nevertheless have areas where gravity seems to be winning. I decided to give Lipofirm a go. Lisa and her assistants are so professional and knowledgable about the treatments they carry out that I immediately felt at ease and had confidence in the procedure. The treatment was all that I was told it would be and the results are extremely good and lasting. I lost most from my abdomen making my stomach flatter and my waist smaller. This enabled me to get into an outfit for a special occasion that I didn’t think I was going to be able to wear.” Lynda “I tried the Lipofirm Radio Frequency facial, this lasted about an hour - after the initial cleansing of the skin, Lisa put a metal pad on my back, applied ultrasound gel on my face, then used a handpiece that gently heats up and massages the face using monopolar radio frequency. The device gets very warm and is moved continually as it tightens the skin and encourages collagen production. It’s a comfortable and relaxing facial that can be used on its own or in conjunction with other facials at the salon. Even after two days my skin looks and feels fresher and tighter.” Bridget • For more information on Lipofirm treatments contact Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle. Tel: 01832 226328 or 07879 620196. www. elysiahealthandbeauty.com
Don’t miss… Elysia’s Christmas make up event launching Jane Iredale Mineral Make Up, which is backed by the Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use. December 10 6pm-9pm for makeovers, Christmas shopping and a glass of fizz. Call Lisa at Elysia on 01832 226328 for details.
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Advertisement Feature
CHRISTMAS WISHES Why be unhappy with your body. LIPOFIRM PLUS will give you all your Christmas wishes and help you sparkle this Christmas. BEFORE
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IPOFIRM PLUS gives a non-invasive, non-surgical, no downtime solution to create inch loss and body contouring. It can be performed on men and women and on most body areas. It’s a common problem that despite diet and exercise our body holds on to fat in stubborn areas. LIPOFIRM PLUS uses proven technology of ULTRASOUND CAVITATION and MONO POLAR RADIO FREQUENCY. This really works and gives outstanding results. We can also offer RADIO FREQUENCY Facials to stimulate and improve collagen and elastin to give lift and firmness. Lisa Claypole, owner of ELYSIA HEALTH AND BEAUTY says, “ the results we can give our clients are outstanding. We’ve had truly amazing results and lots of happy clients. It’s important to me that we fully explain the procedure and work with you to help you achieve your body goals. We want you to get the best result.” HERE ARE SOME OF OUR CLIENT QUOTES: “It’s a remarkable treatment carried out by knowledgeable professionals which gives outstanding results.” “The treatment was all that I was told it would be and the results are extremely good and lasting.” “I had my arms treated- I can now hold my arms out without worrying about sagging skin underneath.” “I called to discuss LIPOFIRM - What a revelation! I spoke to Lisa and was immediately put at ease as she described the treatment. I was so impressed with her professional and friendly manner, I booked there and then.” “I dropped 2 dress sizes over 8 weeks.” “As a 55 year old male visiting a salon – I was apprehensive. I need not have worried. The setting and location is perfect. Lisa is so professional and the treatment has given exceptional results.” Relax in the knowledge you are in safe hands with a team that have a wealth of experience. We are still offering LIPOFIRM courses at our original launch offer price. We also offer everything from Caci and Environ facials, massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, lash extensions and lots more. • Call us today. PROFESSIONALISM, PASSION AND GENUINE CARE Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle. Tel 01832 226328 or 07879 620196 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com Facebook: Elysia Health and Beauty
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CHRISTMAS GIFT PACKAGES Gift Vouchers in a Gift Box PARTY PACKAGE ½ Set of Eyelash Extensions, GEL Manicure & Eyebrow Tidy £65 (Normally £77)
CKAGE PAMPER PA t Stone o H y Full Bod Massage & Collagen Facial £100 120) Normally (£
PURE INDULGENCE Collagen Facial, Make Up Lesson & GEL Manicure & Pedicure, Eyebrow Tidy £150 (Normally £165)
CACI ANTI-AGEING PACKAGE 10 x CACI 60Min Facials £500 (Normally £650)
Payments can be taken over the phone for Gift vouchers and posted. Opening Times - Mon – Thur 9.30-7.30, Fri 9.30-5.00
Christmas Shopping Event
Join The Beauty Room Oundle in celebrating the festive season at our late night shopping event on Wednesday 10th December from 5pm until 8pm where you can enjoy a mince pie and a glass of Prosecco . We will have a range of Elemis Christmas gift packs and stocking fillers to purchase for your loved ones, with an option to have these gift wrapped. We will be selling hair and beauty gift vouchers and have exclusive offers and discounts for this night only. A raffle and a lucky dip will also be available .
Sat 8.00-5.00
The Old Stables, Church Farm, Glapthorn, Nr Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5BE
T: 01832 272310 M: 07807 879459 - www.purebeautyglapthorn.co.uk
Established 1969
Offering Private Physiotherapy Appointments at our clinic in Peterborough and Oundle Medical Practice. All enquiries ( 8am-8pm) to our Peterborough Reception Team:
01733 565911 www.prestonshealth.co.uk
We are Registered with all Major Healthcare Companies including BUPA, AXA PPP and AVIVA. Pr es t on s Hea l t h 29 A l exa n d r a R oa d , Pet er b or ou g h PE 1 3DE
Please call 01832 273989
or email bookings@beautyroomoundle.co.uk to secure your place on our guest list.
14 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EF www.beautyroomoundle.co.uk
LCN Nail treaments Natural Nail treatments and nail biter programme Waxing, Tinting, Lash Extensions, Facial treatments Body Treatments, Make up treatments including Air brushing make up. Luxurious treatment packages available. 42 School Road, Newborough, Peterborough, PE6 7RG Tel: 01733 810071
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URBAN RAMBLES
WALK DATA
Sheffield & The Porter Brook This is a simply unbelievable walk that takes you from the ruggedness of the Peak District Moors to the heart of Sheffield in six gripping miles of stream-side rambling and culvert hugging
Distance: 6 Miles (10 kms) Height Drop: 300 metres Typical time: 3 hours Map: Sheffield & Barnsley Explorer 278 Parking: Q-Park, Sheffield Station, Turner Street, S1 2B Start: Norfolk Arms, Ringinglow; this can be reached by taxi from the station, approx £10; or by Bus 84 from Sheffield Interchange, which is just a couple of hundred yards up from the station, check times and bus number prior to travel Finish: Sheffield Station Terrain: Assuming you start in Ringinglow (much preferable), all downhill; sturdy boots required for the initial downhill section
Cityscape
POINTS OF INTEREST The Porter Brook derives its name from its brownish colour, similar to the colour of Porter beer, a brownish discolouration obtained as it passes over iron-ore deposits on its course from the source. Like the other rivers in Sheffield, the Porter Brook is ideally suited for providing water power, as the final section falls some 450 feet in a little over 4 miles. This enabled dams to be constructed reasonably close together, without the outflow from one mill being restricted by the next downstream dam. By 1740 Sheffield became the most extensive user of waterpower in Britain and probably in Europe. Ninety mills had been built, two-thirds of them for grinding. By 1850 these mills numbered well over 100. In the Porter Valley alone 21 mill dams served 19 waterwheels, mostly used for grinding corn, operating forge-hammers, and rolling mills, grinding knives and the various types of blade that made Sheffield famous. Most were active during the 18th and 19th centuries. Forge Dam was a forge and rolling mill used for the production of saws, while two drop-hammers were used to beat heated metal ingots into wrought-iron. Today the café is a popular spot for Sheffield families walking up the valley or bringing their family to play in the playground there.
The Shepherd Wheel first started generating power in the 1550s, became derelict in the 20th century and was lovingly restored in 2011 by the Friends of the Porter Valley with Heritage Lottery & Council funding, reopening as a working museum (open Sat & Sun). We were left spellbound watching the water feed into the mill wheel , turning the axles, the crown wheel, the pinions, the drums, the belts, the lion shaft, all finally connecting up with the grind stones. Endcliffe Park was opened in 1887 to commemorate the Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Near the entrance is a statue of Queen Victoria and mid-way up the path towards Whiteley Woods is an obelisk also in honour of Queen Victoria. It was laid out by William Goldring, a nationally acclaimed park designer, who was responsible for work on nearly 700 different garden landscape projects across England and was in charge of the Herbaceous Department at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. The Sheffield Botanical Gardens were opened in 1836, and comprise 19 delightful acres. Originally designed by Robert Marnock in the Gardenesque style, the site now has fifteen different garden areas featuring collections of plants from all over the world, including Mediterranean, Asian, American prairie-style, woodland and rockand-water plantings. The Gardens contain several listed buildings including the restored Grade II* listed curvilinear Glass Pavilions, some of the earliest ever built. NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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©Crown copyright 2014 Ordnance Survey Media 052/14 Sheffield General Cemetery was also opened in 1836, in what was then countryside. The graveyards in town were overflowing and there was an urgent need to find more space for the bodies. The Cemetery was also intended to be a fit place where people could be buried in a way that reflected their earthly wealth and status. It became established as the principal burial ground in Victorian Sheffield containing the graves of 87,000 people. But it was also intended as a place for the living. It has sweeping vistas and inspiring architecture - the grand scheme celebrated the designers’ attitudes towards life (Robert Marnock was a landscape adviser). The cemetery was one of the first in Britain to promote this type of landscape, with the purpose of creating an uplifting place, in which people could contemplate the beauty and tranquillity of their surroundings.
The route 1.
Porter Brook
Start from the Norfolk Arms in Ringinglow. Take the road just to the west of the pub, called Fulwood Lane, heading NW; after less than 1km you reach a kink in the road, where the Porter Brook crosses (head a little beyond this point to the next road junction for a brilliant cityscape) You have now reached the start of the Porter Brook path, and you essentially follow this route east, never far from Porter Brook, through Whiteley Woods to Forge Dam From Forge Dam continue on down, always taking the path that keeps you closest to the brook Eventually, you reach the restored Shepherd Dam & Wheel on your left; from here you continue on down the valley until you reach the Oakbrook Road; cross over, walk down a few yards and then enter the western end of Endcliffe Park, which you walk down to the eastern exit at the Hunter’s Bar roundabout Cross the roundabout to the left and proceed along the left side of Eccleshall Rd (the Porter Brook remains on your left); take the first left up Botanical Rd and enter the Botanical Gardens via the Botanical Rd Entrance at the top. Head East across the gardens, and eventually exit at the SE end Go down Thompson Rd, return to the Eccleshall Rd, cross over, turn left, then take the fourth right down Cemetery Avenue Head in through the gates of the cemetery, and proceed east along the main path of the cemetery to the east exit into Montague St; then cross diagonally right past a play area into Cemetery Rd; head down it until you reach Boston St on the right; take this east until you reach the Bramall Lane; turn left and down into the underpass, coming out on the NE side into St Mary’s Rd Shortly take a left into Hereford St and then a right into Mary St, along which you will see the Porter Brook running once again; turn left into Shoreham St, passing Matilda St on your left (under which the Porter Brook flows); then when you get to the cinema in Shoreham St, turn right down to the station and once again (and for the final time) you will see the Porter Brook culvert.
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PIT STOPS Forge Dam Café For over 80 years, the Forge Dam Café has been a well-loved spot for walkers and cyclists. Thelma’s Café, 345 Sharrow Vale Rd (just off the Hunter’s Bar roundabout), Sheffield, S11 8ZG (Tel: 0114 268 3674) original, fun and friendly.
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VISIT US AT OUR NEW LARGE SHOWROOM We have a large selection of the latest contemporary stoves by all leading manufacturers
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Invite the whole family round for the big day, as our easy clean carpets take the worry out of entertaining this Christmas.
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“” PERSPECTIVES
Peterborough Speaks A fascinating new exhibition revealing personal journals written by a cross section of Peterborough’s citizens opens at the City Gallery this month. Fiona Cumberpatch reports
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N the age of social media, where people are constantly sharing their private thoughts, feelings and actions, as well as photos of themselves at work and play with whoever cares to log into their Twitter, Instagram or Facebook page, the concept of a paper diary could be seen as an anachronism. The act of sitting down with a pen, taking time out of the day to reflect and then record the events or thoughts requires commitment, and yes, spare time and space, something few of us will admit to having. However, when arts organisation METAL asked a diverse selection of Peterborians to commit to keeping a journal for a period of four months earlier this year, their response was enthusiastic. The results are shown as part of an exhibition called Hoarding, which goes on display at Peterborough City Gallery on December 12. Participants include a trades union activist, a law student with a stunning talent for illustration, a local councillor and dad of two young daughters, a woman who has been recently bereaved, an 11 year old boy with a wicked sense of humour, an enthusiastic rabbit keeper and ecologist, a lifer at HMP Peterborough, an art teacher and a right handed man who decided to record his thoughts exclusively with his left hand. “Hoarding has been about encouraging and inducing dialogue,” explains Mark Richards, director of METAL Peterborough. “We have had a public dialogue with our billboard exhibition which went on display around the city in the summer and now comes into the gallery at the same time as the journals, and the diaries represent private dialogue. Some of them are extremely personal, people have written very honestly about their lives. The result is a snapshot of a city in a state of change at a particular moment in time.” Senior Project Manager at METAL is Sarah Haythornthwaite. “We gave out 230 journals, and we have had almost 100 returned, which is a great response,” she explains. “We had project ambassadors to encourage people to have the confidence to get things down on paper. Others were happy just to go away and do it. We always wanted this to be about unearthing hidden voices and celebrating the wider community.”
Book of days
Contributors were issued with a standard notebook but they were encouraged to personalise their journals in any way they wished. Some people illustrated theirs, others used photos or stuck things on the pages scrapbook-style. Some just used words. One of the most moving has been written at snatched moments. It belongs to a woman who has lost her husband, leaving her with two young children to raise. “It’s so hard doing this without you,” she writes to her husband, referred to as ‘A.’ “I crave your guidance, company, love. I want so much to co-parent with you.” She records days of despair and times when she sees a way forward. She writes: “People are ‘the point’ in my life. They have the power to make life wonderful, awful, bearable. Surrounding ourselves with those who love us and those we love.” Another contributor, 53 year old Catherine, is serving a life sentence at HMP Peterborough. Her entries are eloquent and evocative, describing the tedium of her days in her cell. One day she smells the far off aroma of a fried breakfast and writes: “Fried egg, gorgeous, creamy sunshine yellow, glowing in its milky bubbling sea of white with burnished crispy froth around the edges. Little things I miss.”
The little things
It is these small details which bring the journals to life. Sam, a student at the Ken Stimpson Community College perfectly evokes the boredom of a pre-teen existence during long summer holidays: “Once again I spent the day not doing much. All I did was watch YouTube videos on the iPad. I live such an interesting life.” Visitors to the exhibition are encouraged to engage with the diaries, picking them up and reading them (comfortable chairs have been installed especially for the event). Be warned, though: it’s addictive. I went for a preliminary viewing and found that when I looked up, two hours had flown past. Social media may now be the principal way with which many of us engage with other people’s lives but this exhibition is proof of the astonishing power of the written word on paper. • Hoarding opens at the City Gallery in Peterborough Museum on December 12 and runs until February 28. It includes monumental billboards, designed by 10 UK artists, and the intimate everyday journals of Peterborough residents. A programme of talks, workshops and public events is also planned. For further details, visit www.metalculture.com or www.vivacity-peterborough.com NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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PEOPLE
Peterborough’s own Santas For most people one Christmas a year is enough. But for the past 17 years a Peterborough couple have shared a very special second celebration in Ukraine, bringing seasonal cheer to those most in need near the scene of the world’s worst nuclear disaster. Jonathan Craymer reports
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N Christmas Day this year John and Rosie Sandall will sit down to enjoy the usual joyful festivities with family and friends. But soon after the turkey has been consumed and the sound of laughter has died away at their cosy home in Peterborough, they’ll set off for yet another visit to the scene of one of the greatest environmental disasters the world has ever known – Chernobyl in Ukraine. This couple are preparing for their 38th visit to the disaster zone, which will still be dangerously radioactive in 1000 years’ time. The second Christmas they’ll share with countless friends they’ve made over the years will be on January 6, when Christmas Eve is celebrated in many parts of Eastern Europe, under the Greek Orthodox Church’s calendar. Using money raised in the UK at events throughout the year, they’re able to buy muchneeded items – such as wheelchairs – for the children of Chernobyl being cared for by a sanatorium. How did they get involved in the first place? Rosie explains: “In 1997 I organised a national knit-in as part of the charity work at the city-based magazine (Yours) where I’m Care Editor. But I hadn’t realised how much readers were going to take this to heart and in the end we were swamped - the knitted items we received could have filled up a Parcelforce lorry! So I suggested as a way of writing a story for the magazine, that we piled them into a van and took them to Chernobyl. “When we got there, we were embarrassed that we had just taken knitting when other help was so obviously needed. At that point we promised ourselves – amid many tears – in future we would try to help people affected by the dreadful legacy of the disaster.” Since then the couple have launched the Chernobyl Children’s Appeal, which has meant
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visiting the city of Chernigov, just 20 miles away from the former nuclear reactor, at least twice a year. It was on April 26 1986 that the Sovietcontrolled power plant exploded, showering much of the Western Hemisphere with radioactive particles. But the immediate area took the brunt of the pollution and children are still being born disabled as a direct result of radiation suffered by their parents.
The children’s sanatorium John and Rosie now support is called Zelaney Huy. They’re also able to give financial help to a nearby Age Concern centre and many individual families with severely disabled children. “Our dear friends, Dr Nickolay who is in charge at the sanatorium and his deputy Dr Raisa very much rely on our donations to keep it going,” explains John, a professional photographer. “100 children visit every four weeks and we’re currently replacing all the one hundred beds. In recent years we’ve rebuilt some key sections, replaced all the floors, bought an air conditioning system and lots of sports equipment.” Over the years there’ve been countless wonderful moments. Rosie recalls helping
to buy an electric wheelchair for a severely disabled young man called Maxim. “It arrived at the airport and went off in a van to be delivered. Later on we asked if we could meet the recipient so we headed off to a remote village half an hour’s drive from Chernigov and knocked on the door of a very small house. Maxim himself answered the door in the wheelchair. That was an extremely moving moment because we realised that previously he’d been in something like an old pushchair, but was now able to get about and visit friends. “There isn’t much funding. Last Christmas there was a routine inspection of the sanatorium and they were told they had to build a new shower and toilet block by February, but had no idea how to pay for it. Just at that moment we arrived and were thrilled that we could finance the work. “Another special memory was buying presents for a number of other disabled children last Christmas. The mother of one of them, Sergei, despite having to look after him, cares for a lot of other children affected by the disaster, and we’re going to a party again with them all this year.” This year they’ll be taking a very special item. Sergei (mentioned above) is a huge fan of anything British, especially the Queen, so John and Rose wrote to tell her. They received a response from the Queen’s lady in waiting, together with a postcard of Her Majesty and Prince Philip, and details of how Her Majesty spends her day. “Sergei will be overwhelmed to see the Royal letter. We can’t wait to present it to him,” says Rosie. In 2008 John and Rosie were made Freemen of the City of Peterborough in recognition of their work in Ukraine. • Chernobyl Children’s Appeal, 51 Apsley Way, Longthorpe, Peterborough PE3 9NZ.
NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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LOCAL WALK
Fotheringhay & Woodnewton We’ve given you a simple but delightful walk for the holiday season, ending with a choice of great village pubs POINTS OF INTEREST
WALK DATA: Distance Typical time OS map
4 miles 1.5 hours Explorer 223 &224 or Landranger 141 (always walk with a map) Fotheringhay Flat, easy going Three or so Yes 4 miles N of Oundle
Start & finish Terrain Stiles Dog friendly How to get there Refreshments • Falcon Pub in Fotheringhay. Tel: 01832 226254. Excellent pub and restaurant food, charming garden overlooking the church. • White Swan, Woodnewton Tel: 01780 470944 bags of character, and under independent ownership
Fotheringhay is an incredibly historic village: • Listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 as ‘Fodringeia’ • The manor came into the possession of Edward III who gave it to his son Edmund Langley, the first Duke of York • Richard III was born at the castle in 1452 • Mary Stuart was brought here in September 1586 after 18 years in captivity. Her trial took place in the Great Hall of the castle on 14th and 15th of October, and she was beheaded on 8th February 1587 • The castle fell into disrepair after Mary’s death. The stones have been used to build many cottages and walls around the village. The mount is a fabulous vantage point of the Nene Valley.
DIRECTIONS
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6 7
Woodnewton 5 4
3
Fotheringhay 2 1
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Park on the road just outside the Falcon in Fotheringhay. Proceed out of the village in a westerly direction. Just before the end of the village, turn right up a small road, that then swings round to the left. About a quarter of a mile up this road, take the footpath heading off to the left, across a track and through a delightful hole in the hedge opposite. On reaching a footbridge across a brook, turn left along a gravelled track instead of crossing the bridge (the path has been slightly diverted here; it is a very acceptable diversion). This track soon swings round to the right, running alongside the field. About 400 yards along the track, walking in a westerly direction, take a right path along the edge of a copse; this path then makes its way towards Woodnewton; when you cross a footbridge over Willow Brook, keep to the left of the field, and you will soon come to a tarmacced road leading into the village. Turn right, and then right again towards Nassington. At the end of the village there is footpath sign bearing right, and from here you get a fabulous view of your final destination – Fotheringhay Church – making navigation rather easy. Follow this path almost due east now, across a footbridge, then straight ahead. Eventually you come to a gate that leads to a wooded area. Follow the path through this wood until it reaches the main bridleway, The Nene Way. Turn right (south) now for a few hundred yards, and turn left just before Willow Brook, following it along until reaching another footbridge. Cross over this and head back into the village, where you rejoin the road and reach the end of the walk.
4. 5. 6. 7.
Fotheringhay Church
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The footbridge at 7
NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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DECEMBER
DIARY DATES
What’s On Seasonal events galore. Compiled by Yasmin Bradley Sunday 6 December St. Nicholas Craft and Food Fair 10.00 am - 3.00 pm Experience Crowland Abbey Christmas Market selling locally-produced/made meat, cakes, preserves, honey, Christmas decorations, knitted clothes, handmade cards, leather goods and jewellery to the accompaniment of live, seasonal music. 50p. Crowland Abbey, East Street, Crowland, PE6 0EN. 01733 810320. www.crowlandabbey. org.uk/ Wednesday 10 December Oundle Late Night Shopping in Oundle Until 8pm Get into the Christmas mood with lamplight shopping in the beautiful, individual shops of Oundle. In and around Oundle Market Place, PE8 4BQ. paula@oundle.gov.uk. 01832 272055. www. oundle.gov.uk Saturday 13 - Saturday 20 December Whisper through the Trees 10am -4pm This lovely, local artists’ exhibition and sale offers gorgeous, exclusive handmade presents including tableware, animals and jewellery in ceramic and contemporary and traditional paintings,. Free. Yarrow Gallery, Glapthorn Road, Oundle, PE8 4JF. 01832 226495.
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December Christmas at Longthorpe Tower 10am –5pm It’s 1371, Christmas is coming and the Thorpe family will soon be home to celebrate. Join the ‘servants’ as they prepare and find out all about behind the scenes at a Medieval Christmas. Drop in throughout the day, no pre-booking needed. Admission charges apply. For details, call 01733 864663 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough. com Sunday 14 December 3pm A Christmas Concert with Nassington and Yarwell Brass Band Muster your best singing voice and enjoy joining in with rousing carols accompanied
Thursday 4 December The Snowman for Organ, Narrator and Treble 9pm Wrap up warmly in a dressing gown and scarf (teddy bear optional), clasp the cup of hot chocolate on offer and enjoy the organ projection on screen with a live narrator and treble before you! Free. The Chapel, Oundle School, 10 Milton Rd, Oundle, PE8 4. 01832 277267. www.oundleschool.org.uk/arts/music/music_diary14.pdf by the Nassington and Yarwell Brass Band in beautiful Nassington Church. Free entry. www.yarwellnassington.co.uk Monday 15 December Oundle Christmas Cracker 7pm-9pm. An informal evening of community entertainment including a Handful of Harmonies. St Peter’s Church, Church St, Oundle, PE8 4EE. 01832 275675 Wednesday 17 December Who, What, Where and When? 2.30pm – 3.45pm Local historian, Stephen Perry’s famous Christmas miscellany with tea, coffee and cake available before and after the talk. £2.00. John Clare Theatre, Peterborough Central Library, Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RX. 01733 864 160. www.vivacity-peterborough. com/event/peterborough.
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MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
Friday 26 December Peterborough Morris Dancers 10:45am - 11:30pm Celebrate Boxing Day traditionally with colourful costumes, English folk dance and music! Free. Cathedral Square, City Centre, Peterborough, PE1 1. 01733 235817 Sunday 28 December Oundle Classic Sprint 10am -4pm Make a day of it and watch a parade of beautiful vintage classic and historic cars and motor cycles takes to the quaint streets of Oundle. Sponsored by the Nene Valley Brewery, Lunar Training, QPrep and Oundle Town Council. Free. Visit Facebook Oundle Classic Sprint for event details or to register your vehicle to exhibit.
Sunday 21 December Music at the Manor Time t/b/c An evening of festive entertainment including popular local choirs A Handful of Harmonies plus guests, taking place in a fully furnished and heated marquee at The Manor, West Deeping. Refreshments, bar, raffle and all proceeds to the Thorpe Hall Hospice Appeal. Tickets £10 adults, £6 children. Tel: Deeping TV Services on 01778 343831 or Andrew Clingo on 01778 345857 NENE VALLEY LIVING DECEMBER 2014
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