Nene Valley Living February 2014

HELPING

YOU

TO

GET

THE

MOST

OUT

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LIVING

NENE VALLEY LIVING FOOD/FASHION/HEALTH

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BEAUTY/HOME

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LOCALLY

GARDEN/LIFESTYLE

WINTER WHITES WHERE TO SEE SNOWDROPS RAILWAY ART A GOLDEN AGE

d n a s e i t Par brations e l e C Your Local Guide FEBRUARY 2014 £1.50 02

9 771740 052017

NEW WEBSITE! www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk GET IN TOUCH: NVLNOVCOVER.indd 1

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We’re 2 years old already!

Exciting times are ahead as we continue to create food with flair using fresh locally sourced produce and the magic from The Witch kitchen.

Winter Weeknight’s at The Witch “Outstanding food at affordable prices”

Head chef Dameon Clarke has created a mouthwatering menu for the Winter Weeknight’s. (Monday - Thursday)

£17.50 - 2 courses • £20.50 - 3 courses

Valentines Dinner Celebrate Valentines Day with a very special six course tasting menu in intimate surroundings.

Candlelit tables, soft music and award winning food. £40 per head (Booking essential)

Tapas Night - Thursday 27th March The Wicked Witch kitchen team have put together an array of tasty tapas for one night only.

Enjoy a cocktail on arrival and a carafe of complimentary wine for your table to accompany many small dishes from around the world. £35 per head. (Booking essential)

Lunch Time Serving Monday - 12pm to 2pm • Tuesday - Saturday 12pm to 2pm • Sunday 12pm till 4pm Bar open until 8pm

Dinner Time Serving

Monday - 6pm to 9pm • Tues - Sat 6pm to 9.30pm Bar open until late • Bar open all day Saturday

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01780 763649 www.ryhallwitch.co.uk The Wicked Witch, Bridge Street, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HH 22/01/2014 14:41

N ENE VA L L EY LIVING

Cover photo: COURTESY OF GLOW IMAGES

This Issue FEBR UA RY 2014 FEBRUA

I

’m so glad that I managed to catch a performance of Blood Brothers which was staged at the previously closed Broadway Theatre, Peterborough. It was the last in a limited run of eight West End musicals, the result of a collaboration between Bill Kenwright Ltd and Vivacity Culture and Leisure. What an evening! The theatre was full to the rafters with an incredibly appreciative audience and the atmosphere was electric. Afterwards, as the crowds thronged out into the night, coaches and cars lining up to meet them, breathing life into a somewhat neglected area of the city, it was proof that there are audiences in Peterborough who would like to see quality productions on their doorstep, and who are willing to pay for the privilege. Everywhere I go I hear people talking about these musicals, and how much they have enjoyed them.

Let’s hope there will be another season coming soon. We’ll keep you posted.

It’s sad to see that the independent boutique Reba has shut its doors in Cathedral Square. Owner Rachel Parkin has done a great deal for the smaller shops in Peterborough, and her presence will be missed. Remember that there are still plenty of other independent retailers in the centre of town, though, so if we want to keep our city unique and interesting, we need to continue to support them. Pick up a copy of the Independent Retailers’ map at the Destionation Centre in Bridge Street if you’re not sure where to find them.

Finally, I’m pleased to announce our very own website, www.nenevalleyliving. co.uk Previously we shared a site with our sister titles, but now we have one all to ourselves. You can also catch up with our daily updated Facebook page there too. Why not take a look?

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

5 Editor’s selection

20 Winter’s stars

7 Upfront

23 Party planning special: A bit of a do

Treats for your Valentine

Authors in Oundle

8 Upfront

Fair Trade week

11 Upfront

The best places to see snowdrops

Setting the scene for your celebration

26 A to Z of caterers Our pick of the area’s suppliers

Healthy juice recipes

29 It’s party time!

12 Food news

Oundle Mill reviewed

32 Adam the gardener

15 The bread winner

35 Railway art

18 Health and beauty notes

37 Diary dates

Profile of a master baker

A fresh take on life with Mindfulness

Great venues for celebrating

Expert tips for February

A local talent

What’s happening 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

W W W. N E N E VA L L E Y L I V I N G . C O . U K

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 FEBRUARY 2014

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TR E ATS A N D GIFTS FOR Y OUR VALE NT INE

Editor’s selection 1

Metal ‘Love’ label, £1 each from a selection at Asha’s, The Bazaar, West St, Oundle PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 275605

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Sorbet leopard print stole, £19, Accessorize, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Sea glass bracelet, £47.50 from Oundle based online gift company The Handmade Emporium, www.thehandmadeemporium.com

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Heart cushion, from a selection at Next Home, Brotherhood Retail Park, Peterborough

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Handmade hearts, £6 -£9 each, glass tea lights, £3 each, all from Hilly Horton Home. Tel: 01832 272030

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Pill boxes, £2.50 each from Asha’s, Oundle, details as before

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Heart shaped clock, £39.95, Asha’s, Oundle, details as before

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Home Made Simple by Joanna Gosling, Kyle Books, £19.99, to order from The Oundle Bookshop (Tel: 01832 273523) NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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aus‛ m r e d e l ‘Die F n Strauss han

by Jo

Thrapston Plaza Opera in Thrapstone Plaza February 18th to 21st at 7pm February 22nd at 5pm Tickets: Adult £15 Child £6 01832 733586 or vincedavy@hotmail.com Website: thrapstonplazaopera.vpweb.co.uk Thrapston Plaza, Cosy Nook, Thrapston NN14 4PS This amateur production is given by arrangement with JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront SPOTLIGHT ON MARRAKECH The Red City at the foot of the High Atlas has captivated generations of Europeans. Vibrant, exciting, colourful, Marrakech is brimming with the mysteries of Arabia, and perfect for a break with a difference during the early spring months.

Marrakech used to be the retreat for rock stars and fashion designers back in the Sixties. These days a plethora of the medieval walled ancient merchants’ houses or ‘Riads’ have been converted into boutique hotels to suit every taste from traditional to high design.

One of the greatest pleasures of Marrakech is to stroll through the souks, bargaining and people watching. The Medina and the Djemaa el Fna change throughout the day so it’s worth passing through at different times. Stalls in the souks offer fabulous treasures and are overflowing with fantastic gifts from carpets to lamps, slippers, pottery, jewellery and leather goods at a fraction of the cost in the UK. Brightly coloured Tagine pots are a particularly good buy. In the early evening the city’s main square comes alive with snake charmers, street entertainers and food stalls. Enjoy a cocktail in the bar of the stunning Mamounia Hotel: this Art Deco Palace was a favourite of Winston Churchill.

Marrakech has numerous fine restaurants to choose from. Start with a bowl of steaming, spicy Harira soup or Bastilla, a semi sweet pigeon pie made with layers of filo pastry. For your main course, a Lamb Tagine with couscous is a must, accompanied by one of the very acceptable local wines, the best of which are red.

City Tours are available from £26 per person for half a day or for a full day with your own private driver from £98 per person passing

through the Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate where the beautiful landscapes meet lush green valleys.

Oundle Travel suggests a stay at The Angsana Riad Blanc, offering traditional Moroccan hospitality. The hotel has an expansive tented rooftop terrace, which is perfect for basking in the warm spring sunshine.

The hotel has two restaurants featuring both Moroccan and Thai cuisine.

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

A FEAST OF LITERATURE IN OUNDLE Book lovers will enjoy two great events which are coming up as part of the Oundle Festival of Literature.

• Jo Baker will be talking about her brilliant novel Longbourn on February 7th at the Sutton Memorial Hall at Oundle and King’s Cliffe Middle School, starting at 7.30pm. Jo’s novel is a brilliantly imagined below-stairs answer to Pride and Prejudice, a story of the intrigue, romance and drama among the servants of the Bennet household from Jane Austen’s classic novel.

Painstakingly researched, it creates an

Gospel of Loki, a vibrant and powerful fantasy novel. Perhaps best known for Chocolat, which was made into an Oscar-nominated film, Joanne’s new book is a brilliant first person Joanne Harris Jo Baker narrative of the rise and fall of the Norse Gods, retold from atmospheric picture of the realities of the point of view of the world’s ultimate day to day life in Regency England, as trickster, Loki. The tale draws on Joanne well as an excellent plot and beautiful Harris’s life long passion for the Norse writing. The heroine of the story is Sarah, myths. She will be discussing the book at an orphaned housemaid who finds St Peter’s Church, Oundle at 7.30pm. The herself intrigued by the black footman at event is sponsored by Stu-Pots of Oundle. neighbouring Netherfield Hall. The carefully • Tickets are £7 (£5) from Oundle choreographed world downstairs at Box Office, 4 New St, Oundle (10am Longbourn threatens to be upturned by the -1pm, Monday to Friday). Tel: 01832 events which follow.

274734 or online www.

• On February 26th, Joanne Harris will be oundlefestival.org.uk in town to talk about her latest book, The

STOP PRESS: Master story teller and best-selling author Ken Follett will be at Peterborough

Cathedral on March 18th as part of a tour to mark the 25th anniversary edition of his famous novel about the building of a cathedral, Pillars of the Earth. Not to be missed! Check the website for ticket details, www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/individual-events/events/an-evening-with-ken-follett.html NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront BE FAIR AND SHOP FAIRTRADE

By Anna Ruggiero

A

s a global community, isn’t it time we started to think about where our products come from, or at the very least, question the ethics of our purchases?

Each product has a lifeline, from producer to purchaser, it will go through various stages of production before it reaches us.

The average shopper leads a busy life, which doesn’t always allow the time to think about the ethics of their buying habits. But the sad reality is, many of the producers of our food are living in poverty.

This is why Fairtrade Fortnight is so important, and why Central England Co-operative is getting fully involved with Fairtrade Fortnight and flying the Fairtrade flag – something they have long been proudly affiliated with.

Martyn Cheatle, Chief Executive of the new society formed from the merger of Midlands Co-operative and Anglia Co-operative, said: “Fairtrade Fortnight is one of the most Fairtrade Facts in numbers for important events in the Co-operative calendar.

2012/20 “We work hard all year to spread the word • 878 Fairtrade Schools in the UK in 2012 about why it’s vital for workers and growers in • 354 UK companies licensed to trade the developing world to get fair terms of trade, Fairtrade and these two weeks provide a real focus for • £23.3 million Fairtrade premium generated this. from UK sales “We organise many events and acitivites • 89% of UK public trust the Fairtrade mark including inviting pupils into our foodstores • One in every three bananas sold in the UK and visiting schools and community groups to is Fairtrade inform children about the value of choosing Fairtrade products.”

Running from February 24 – March 9, Fairtrade Fortnight will mark the launch of a national campaign that aims to transform the banana industry to ensure those at the sharp end of the supply chain- the millions of struggling banana farmers and workers in the Third World-get a fair deal. It’s a campaign to ‘Make Bananas Fair’ and is the next part of a three-year initiative to ‘Make Food Fair.’

Fairtrade guarantees that farmers and workers receive a fair wage for their work, and the money generated by Fairtrade products goes back into the community helping to provide hospitals, schools, fresh water and many of the things we take for granted.

The Society is passionate about Fairtrade, and has been supporting it since the inception of the Fairtrade mark back in 1994.

That is why Fairtrade Fornight is so vital to allow the Society the opportunity to showcase their year-round beliefs, during these fun-packed, two weeks.

Schools will get a visit from their local foodstore and enjoy some educational fun on the importance of supporting growers, and producers, in other countries.

There will also be the opportunity for the school to try some delicious Fairtrade products, and of course, there will be plenty of FAIRTRADE bananas to hand out to the children, too!

• For further information on Fairtrade Fortnight, visit – www.fairtrade.org.uk

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SWEET TOOTH Support your local community and enjoy some delicious home-made desserts at the same time, at the Barnwell Pudding Club on February 9.

From 2-4pm in Barnwell Village Hall, you can choose from a selection of sweet treats.

• Tickets cost £3 in advance from Barnwell Post Office, or £5 on the door.

BOOK AHEAD Stamford Shakespeare Company has released details of its summer programme of plays. Audiences can look forward to As You Like It, The Taming of the Shrew and the popular musical Kiss Me Kate. Finally, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass completes the 2014 programme.

• For more information on the plays, dates, prices and forward booking, call 01780 756133 or visit www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk

TRY SOMETHING NEW Why not learn a new skill for the New Year? Peterborough Museum is hosting a calligraphy workshop on March 15, 10am -5pm. You can learn the foundational script of calligraphy, and by the end of the day you will have designed and created a bookmark, greetings card or short quotation. Plus you can take home all the equipment you need for your new hobby. The price is £55, lunch is included. Booking is essential.

Call 01733 864663 or email museum@vivacity-peterborough.com

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All bananas in our stores are Fairtrade Helping to achieve a fair deal for growers and workers in the developing world and changing lives at the same time.

Supporting Fairtrade since 1994 Fairtrade Fortnight 24th February – 9th March

The co-operative food

www.angliacooperative.co.uk

Bentley Avenue, Yaxley Ortongate Shopping Centre, Orton 9

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Professional Home Care Service

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

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

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

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

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

www.homeinstead.co.uk/oundle

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

Tel: 01733 772934 Email: info@ ridgewaygaragedoors. co.uk

We pride ourselves on great customer service

sale 50% OFF ALL TREND KITCHENS & 30% OFF ALL GERMAN KITCHENS

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THE LARGEST KITCHEN & BATHROOM STUDIO IN THE AREA Waterland House, 81 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EJ EMAIL: INFO@KUCHENKRAFT.CO.UK CALL US NOW ON 01832 270300

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront ASK THE

expert

Garry Wiles from Stephenson Smart & Co gives some tax saving tips for the New Year.

HEALTHY JUICING RECIPES FROM RIVERFORD If you fancy giving juicing a try, Riverford Cook Kirsty Hale has come up with some tasty recipes (you will need a juicer to make them) All the ingredients you’ll need are available with free delivery at www.riverford.co.uk/sacrewell Green juice Full of green goodness, with a fresh taste - add an apple if you prefer it a little sweeter.

• 150g curly kale • 1/2 cucumber • 1/2 head of broccoli (stalk and florets) • squeeze of lemon juice, to taste Juice the kale, cucumber and broccoli, then squeeze in a little lemon juice to taste.

Parsnip, pear & apple juice Sounds a little weird, perhaps, but parsnips are sweet, so they work well in this juice.

• 2 medium-large parsnips • 2 pears • 1 apple

COULD YOU BE A LIBRARY VOLUNTEER?

Beetroot & celery Beetroot has quite a strong flavour when you juice it and needs something to dilute it - we’ve used celery. You could add the juice of an orange too, or a blood orange.

• 2 sticks celery, trimmed • 1 very large or 2 medium beetroot, scrubbed, skin on, top and bottom root trimmed off.

Carrot, apple & ginger Our favourite juice, by a carrot top length!

• 3 large carrots (350-400g), scrubbed very clean • 1 apple, whole, stalk removed • 10g piece fresh ginger, unpeeled.

Tax is a subject that excites few people, but ignoring tax planning opportunities can cost you. Here are a few areas for consideration before the end of tax year deadline: 1. Using allowances of both spouses Ensure full use of each spouse’s tax free allowance and basic tax rate band. Given that the personal allowance cannot be transferred between spouses at present it may be necessary to consider gifting of assets between spouses in order to distribute income more evenly.

2. Preservation of child benefit If you are in receipt of child benefit and either you or your live in partner have income in excess of £50,000, then you may have to pay back/forego some or all of your child benefit. The impact of this new tax charge can be reduced by considering how profits are extracted from family businesses, or by making additional pension contributions.

3. Family companies If the payment of bonuses to directors or shareholders is under consideration, give careful thought as to whether payment should be made before or after the end of the tax year. The date of payment will affect the date tax is due, possibly the rate at which it is payable, and also possibly entitlement to income related benefits such as child benefit.

4. Capital gains tax For 2013/14 the first £10,900 of capital gains per individual are free of capital gains tax. Each spouse has their own exemption which is not transferrable and cannot be carried forward if unused, therefore it may be possible to sell assets standing at a gain prior to the end of tax year to use the annual exemption.

• Contact Stephenson Smart if you’d like to discuss the issues involved in pre year-end tax planning and any appropriate action you may need to take.

For more information and tax advice, contact Stephenson Smart & Co, telephone 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

Do you have a couple of hours spare each month? Vivacity’s Dogsthorpe Library is looking for volunteers.

If you become a Friend of Dogsthorpe Library, you can help out with library events produced by the group, including coffee mornings, book sales, murder mystery evenings, craft sales and more. The meetings take place on the first Tuesday of each month, 10.15am – 11.15am. Crafts and rhymes can be provided for small children who accompany parents to the meetings.

• To find out more, contact Tarney Hughes on 01733 864635 or email tarney.hughes@vivacitypeterborough.com

eat well

free

get a free cook book with your vegbox

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

in the new year try a seasonal organic vegbox today with free delivery

cook book* (worth £16.99)

call 01780 789700 or visit www.riverford.co.uk/FFB14 NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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FOOD & DR INK

Food News All the latest on local food and drink

NENE VALLEY LIVING

recommends OUNDLE MILL

Recently named Restaurant of the Year in the Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards 2013-14, Oundle Mill is currently enjoying a wave of success. If reader feedback is anything to go by, the award, and head chef Gavin Austin’s place as a finalist in the Aspire Chef of the Year award, are richly deserved.

My colleague Helen and I decided to find out, so we booked in for lunch on a cold day in January.

The blend of rustic and sleek chic furnishings lend the beautiful old Mill building an air of relaxed luxury, and we sat back on the comfortable leather sofas in the bar to choose from an extremely wellpriced set lunch menu, which is available on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

It’s a great idea: you get three choices of starters at £3 each, three mains at £12 each, and three desserts, also at £3. “The food is of exactly the same standard and quality as the a la carte menu, it’s just a way of showcasing certain items and getting people to come and try us,” says restaurant manager Paul Richardson. When we had made our decisions, our waitress took our drinks to our table, with a view over the river.

She also brought a platter containing a dish of melt-in-the mouth cheese straws with a pot of mustard mayonnaise for dipping, and another bowl of rosemary and maple roasted almonds. Then came a tray of warm homemade bread rolls, one seeded, one fruited. The attention to detail was amazing

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and our main meal hadn’t even started!

Helen chose the BBQ Cornish mackerel with Yorkshire rhubarb, crème fraiche and watercress. It was very pretty. “It is light, with lovely textures, and the sharp fruit goes brilliantly with the fish,” said Helen. My leek and potato soup with pulled Blytheburgh ham hock was a sophisticated take on a homely dish, the soup a verdant green and the salty, savoury ham adding extra flavour.

For our mains, Helen had the Loch Duart salmon, Maris Pipers, Cox’s Apple, Swiss chard, mussel and ale veloute, a fresh and tangy dish, full of good flavours. My choice was pork tenderloin, Jack Buck’s celeriac, calvo nero, shiitake mushrooms and cyder. Again, the presentation was superb: the whole preserved mushrooms looked like something out of a gourmet fairy tale, the pork was meltingly tender and the creamed celeriac a lovely complement to the rich sauce.

By the time we were ready for dessert, Helen’s de-tox diet had gone out of the window, and she ordered the pear and almond jalousie, local quince and Anise custard. “It’s really delicate, the pastry is light and the anise custard is great with the apples,” she said. My vanilla rice pudding with caramelised pineapple and Bacardi was another great twist on a comfort food. The pineapple was a brilliant addition; each dish is so well thought out.

Helen’s vervain tea and my coffee came with two squares of home made chocolate and nut fudge, the perfect finale to a truly delicious lunch, with excellent service

throughout.

Wines are selected from Amps in Oundle, and meat is often sourced from Trendall’s, another local business. Throughout February, you can take advantage of another great deal, which is dining for £18.95 for three courses on Thursdays. At lunch time, you could have two courses for £15.95. Or if you are celebrating something special, a tasting menu inspired by local farms and produce is available at £38.50 per person and is available on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Try it: you’ll remember your meal for a long time to come.

Fiona Cumberpatch Oundle Mill, Barnwell Rd, Oundle PE8 5PB Tel: 01832 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk Booking is advisable for the popular Thursday dining deals.

DINE FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Fine dining restaurant The Cherry House in Werrington has come up with an innovative fund raising scheme. Throughout 2014, each time an NHS member of staff dines at the establishment, owner Andrew Corrick will be donate a percentage of takings to the Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and General Charitable Fund.

“We enjoy welcoming many NHS staff to The Cherry House. Our restaurant in Werrington village seems to be a favourite with Stamford and Peterborough personnel alike,” says Andrew. “Their support has been highly appreciated over recent years, so much so that we felt we should be giving something back.”

The Cherry House at Werrington can be contacted on 01733 571721 www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

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Perfect for a romantic date

OUNDLE MILL

DINE FOR £18.95 ON THURSDAYS Every Thursday, for lunch or dinner, you can experience our delicious Mill menu for £18.95 for 3 courses.

During lunch times only you can enjoy 2 courses for £15.95.

SET MENU Our set menu offers a selection of mouth-watering dishes and is perfect to enjoy for lunch or dinner.

Starters £3.00 • Mains £12.00 • Desserts £3.00 The set menu is available for lunch and dinner on Wednesdays and Fridays and for lunch on Saturdays.

SUNDAY LUNCH • 2 courses £19.50 • 3 courses £22.50 Children’s Sunday lunch 2 courses £9.75 • 3 courses £11.25 Sunday lunch is served between 12.00 and 16.00

VALENTINE’S TASTER MENU £38.50 per person Available on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th February 2014.

Barnwell Road • Oundle • Northamptonshire • PE8 5PB www.oundlemill.co.uk • 01832 272621

Enjoy an intimate meal for two this Valentine’s Day Let our chefs and their dishes take your taste buds on a journey across the Far East, whilst enjoying the picturesque and romantic setting of Peterborough’s finest floating restaurant.

East Restaurant, Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP www.east-restaurant.co.uk

01733 315702

Amazing Live Events in February Sat 1st – Chris Hatt, 9pm Mon 3rd – Charters Unplugged, 8pm Sat 8th – Dave Jackson Blues Band, 10:30pm Fri 14th – Franc Cinelli, 9pm Sat 15th – Kickback, 10:30pm Fri 21st – Children of the Revolution, 9pm Sat 22nd – The Mojo Slide, 9pm Sun 23rd – Best of Unplugged, 3pm Fri 28th – Groove Cartel, 10:30pm

Great atmosphere below deck UK’s largest floating real ale emporium 12 hand pumps incl award-winning brews from Oakham Ales

Lower Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP www.charters-bar.co.uk

01733 315700

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FOOD & DR INK

Star Baker

When Fi Smallridge’s husband suffered a life-changing health scare, she stepped into the breach to create a new income for the family, and so The Small Bread Company was born.

Words: Lucy Banwell Portrait: Lesley Anne Churchill

W

hen you step into The Small Bread Company’s new shop on Oundle’s Market Place, you may be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled across a little piece of France right here in the middle of Northamptonshire. Loaves of various shapes, sizes and colours are piled high on the shelves and towering displays of meringues, cakes and pastries adorn the tables and window ledges.

“We used to live in France, so my inspiration was a French boulangerie,’ explains Fi Smallridge, founder and chief baker of The Small Bread Company. ‘And I didn’t want everyone bumping into each other, so a big space was how I’d always imagined it. I’m from America where everything’s big!”

The new shop – previously occupied by clothes retailer Jacks For Women – opened on 7th December, the day of Oundle’s Christmas Market, and the response from the public was enthusiastic from the start.

“We had really good feedback,” says Fi. ‘People coming into the shop for the first time seemed really excited. We always make sure there’s bread out on the counter for people to look at and we cut samples every day so that they can try before they buy. I’ve trained my staff to know what to ask the customer in order to sell them the right product.

“Our biggest seller at the moment is the Oundle Loaf. It’s a round malted rye loaf made with Nene Valley Brewery beer and local TitchWincle honey. It goes really well with cheese and chutney.”

Opening day was the culmination of many years of hard work on the part of Fi Smallridge and her husband David. Back in 2011, not long after the couple had moved to the UK from Fi’s native California to be closer to David’s family, David suffered a heart attack which left him unable to continue his work as a builder.

“I’d been baking from home as a hobby, and had started to sell my bread at the village shop in Nassington,” says Fi, who now lives in Wansford with David and their two sons aged nine and seven. “We realised we had two choices – either go back to America or invest our money into a bread business. So that’s what we did. Because my husband couldn’t work anymore, I became the sole breadwinner. I had to make it work.”

“David’s much better now,’ continues Fi. “He’s my business partner and we run The Small Bread Company together. He delivers the bread

and takes care of the kids when I’m not around.

He also looks after all of the buildings and machines, and he’s in charge of kitting out the new cookery school we’re going to have above the shop. We’re a good team.”

They certainly need to be because Fi’s baking schedule is demanding, to say the least.

She arrives at her baking unit at Barnwell Workshops at 1am in the morning and works through the night, with the help of an assistant, to produce the bread to be sold in the shop the next day. At 11am she heads home for a sleep before waking to spend some time with her boys after school.

“People ask me how I do it, but I’m used to it now,” says Fi with a shrug. “The boys do miss me, but they’ve adapted really well. If they’re around when I’m napping in the day my husband will say “Mummy’s sleeping” and they stay really quiet because they know I’ve been working hard.”

Essential to The Small Bread Company’s ethos is quality and affordability. All of Fi’s bread is made from stoneground organic flour, yeast, salt and water. There are no artificial additives and Fi believes the end result is a healthier, tastier end product.

“I always wanted our bread to be affordable.

I didn’t want people to think they couldn’t get good bread because it was out of their budget, so our farmhouse loaf costs £1.95. Some of our fancier loaves are a bit more expensive but we’re still cheaper than some bakeries!”

So after all the hours Fi has put into her new business, what does she find most rewarding about her role as Oundle’s baking high priestess?

“You can’t beat the feeling of seeing a customer return to the shop because they like what I’ve made and want more,” says Fi. “It’s the ultimate compliment and makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

• Fi’s ‘Basic Bread Making’ classes take place on the third Wednesday of the month at her baking unit at Barnwell Workshops. The class, which costs £55 per person, runs from 10.30am til 3pm and includes a light lunch.

Other cookery classes will be on offer from the Spring when Fi’s Cookery School opens above the shop. Vouchers for the classes can be purchased from the Small Bread Company at 20 Market Place, Oundle.

Tel: 01832 270938 www. thesmallbreadcompany.com NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

15 PROFILE.indd 2

15

23/1/14 16:32:41

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16

• NVL Feb ADS.indd 16

23/01/2014 11:49

Cosmetic Surgery

at Fitzwilliam Hospital

Fitzwilliam Hospital offers a range of procedures:

· Breast Surgery · Liposuction · Tummy Tuck · Face Lifts

· Thread Veins · Two-Stitch Face Lift · Trampoline Neck Lift · Non-Surgical Procedures

Open Evening Wednesday 12th Feb at 7pm.

Come along to our complimentary open evening where you will be able to access information on cosmetic procedures.

For more information and to book your place, call:

01733 842 304 www.fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk Milton Way, South Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE3 9AQ

• NVL Feb ADS.indd 17

17

22/01/2014 14:44

HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

Health & Beauty Notes All the latest on local health and beauty businesses. By Bridget Steele MINDFULNESS: BASICS FOR HEALTH AT PRESTONS

COULD YOUR DIET AFFECT YOUR HEALTH? Have you ever thought that what you are eating might be affecting your health?

There is an old saying “one man’s meat is another man’s poison.”

This old adage acknowledges that everyone is made differently and that while one food may benefit one person, it may be indigestible to another, and in fact it could even make them feel unwell. Many people may find they are not tolerant of certain foods and will need to modify their diet.

Once you understand the foods you need, there is then the task of turning them into exciting meals. Jane Catherine Sanders offers lessons in understanding nutrition and in selecting and cooking appetising dishes that are quick to prepare. The lessons can be in Tansor or in your own home.

• For more information contact Jane on 01832 226495

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS AT THE OLD FORGE The Old Forge Hair and Beauty celebrates its second birthday this year, and has some great offers to celebrate. The salon has recently started offering the ever popular Caci facials and a ten session course is on offer at £300. If you are looking for the latest in eyebrow definition, the salon offers a seven stage procedure to enhance your brows starting at £15, and threading for £5.

Or why not get together with some friends and visit the salon for a Pamper Party?

• For more details contact The Old Forge Hair and Beauty, 12 Cross Street, Farcet, Peterborough, PE7 3AL Tel: 01733 245392. www.oldforgehairandbeauty.co.uk

18

Prestons Physiotherapy in Peterborough and Oundle have now expanded into Prestons Health to reflect their holistic health ethos.

Prestons Health have teamed up with Barbara Reid, an experienced Mindfulness teacher to offer Mindfulness-based training at the studio in Alexandra Road, Peterborough. Mindfulness is simply a way of being and helps us to learn to remain centred when faced with difficult and stressful things in our lives, whether these come at us in the form of poor health, general issues or focussed stress, family problems, work challenges, shocks to the system, or just the ‘stuff’ that we have to deal with day to day. It is a deep training for the mind that, with practice, can give us our own shelter in the storm by helping reduce our reactivity and building up our resilience.

There is a rapidly expanding body of research showing that practising mindfulness can be immensely helpful for people with persistent pain.

Helen Preston, Clinical Director at Prestons Health says “it is really helpful to be able to offer mindfulness training to complement our other treatments at the clinic. We are finding that it can help people become more resilient not just to stress but also to injury. It also helps improve coping strategies for people in pain.”

“We are offering an initial Basics for Health workshop comprising two two hour sessions that will give you a sense of what it is like to work with Mindfulness. The participants will be introduced to some short practices, participate in a few reflective exercises, and experience the process of self-enquiry. Having completed this workshop, the attendees will have some simple tools to help you establish a regular daily practice that can support general emotional and physical health. A booklet and audio CD are provided and it is a good course if you want to get the feel of mindfulness practice, try it out before joining an eight-week course, or just learn a different way of relaxing.”

• The Basics for Health Course costs £60 and booking is made through Prestons Health on 01733 565911. They are also looking to offer an eight week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course later in the year.

For more information about Mindfulness at Prestons, including course dates, please visit the new website on www.prestonshealth.co.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

18 H&B NEWS.indd 3

23/1/14 16:33:50

Valentines Special at

• Laser Hair Removal • TITAN Skin Tightening • Vein Treatments • Skin Rejuvenation • Microdermabrasion • Botox and Fillers

The Old Forge Gel Polish and Blowdry for £25.00 during February Caci Facial offer – A course of ten 1 hour sessions for £300 For more details contact:-

Ask for Louise or Penny at The Old Forge Hair and Beauty, 12 Cross Street, Farcet,Peterborough PE7 3AL Tel: 01733 245392

www.oldforgehairand beauty.co.uk

• Dermaroller

1n0ivetrshary,

An shed Establi 0 20 4

• Age and Brown Spots • Chemical Peels

The BodyLaser Clinic Peterborough Clinic 60 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1SU Tel. (01733) 555200

Cambridge Clinic Essex House, 71 Regent Street, Cambridge, CB2 1AB Tel. (01223) 464171

www.bodylaser.co.uk

Established 1969

Back and neck pain, sport/work related injuries, foot problems, muscular aches and pains and much much more.

For further information, see www.prestonshealth.co.uk or call 01733 565911

Offering a holistic approach to your healthcare:

Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Sports massage, Acupuncture, Mindfulness, Yoga and Pilates.

Clinics in Peterborough and Oundle.

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22/01/2014 14:44

DAY OUT

Winter’s stars

Sue Dobson reveals some of the best places to see snowdrops in our area

F

rom swathes of the delicate white flowers carpeting woodland to a few nodding heads snuggling into the base of a tree in the garden, the welcome sight of snowdrops cheers the chilliest of days. Some of the finest snowdrop displays in England are within easy reach and taking a walk among them is surely the finest way to make the most of the lengthening daylight hours. The ‘snowdrop season’ is dependent on the weather so do check opening dates and times before visiting the gardens listed.

ANGLESEY ABBEY

Famed nationwide, very year thousands of visitors arrive to admire the spectacular snowdrop displays in the 114-acre (46 hectare) gardens surrounding the Jacobean-style house near Cambridge. Following the meandering path through the Winter Garden, with its unusual plants and colourful trees, adds spice to glorious vistas carpeted by over 240 varieties of snowdrops, some of them specific to Anglesey Abbey.

20

When? Snowdrop Festival: 3 February to 9 March. The gardens, plant centre, restaurant and shop are open daily 10.30am-4.30pm.

Admission fees; free entry for National Trust members Where? Quy Road, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJ. Tel: 01223 810080. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey/

CHIPPENHAM PARK

Acres of naturalised snowdrops, together with bright little aconites and some sparky hellebores, feature amid the parkland, lakeside gardens, waterways and woodland walks of this large country house between Newmarket and Ely. When? Snowdrop Weekends: 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 2223 February. Gardens and tearoom open 11am to 4pm. Admission adults £5, children free. Wellbehaved dogs allowed on a leash.

Where? Chippenham Park, Chippenham, CB7 5PT. Tel: 01638 721416. www.chippenhamparkgardens.info

NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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CHELVESTON In rural East Northamptonshire, a spectacular array of snowdrops and aconites welcome visitors to the 13thcentury Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Chelvestoncum-Caldecott. They edge the neat tree-lined path, peep from long grass and snuggle against ancient headstones, carpeting a churchyard where the view is of trees, fields and the gently undulating countryside.

Inside the well cared for little church are reminders that the US Eighth Air Force flew from Chelveston airfield during the Second World War, most famously the 305th Bombardment Group with their B17 Flying Fortress planes.

Look for pots of snowdrops in the church porch, sold in aid of church funds.

• Caldecott Road, Chelveston NN9 6AT. The church is usually open during daylight hours.

drifts of snowdrops, including their own Coton snowdrop, and a stunning variety of hellebores.

When? Snowdrops and Hellebores: 22 February to 9 March. Garden, café and nursery open daily 11am to 4pm. Admission £3 Where? Coton Manor, Coton NN6 8RQ. Tel: 01604 740219. www.cotonmanor.co.uk

DEENE PARK

EASTON WALLED GARDENS These magical ‘lost’ gardens in Lincolnshire invite you to wrap up warm for a winter walk full of glorious displays of snowdrops and aconites, see unusual snowdrops in the Coach House and hear free talks that celebrate the fairy tale flowers.

When? Snowdrop Week: 15 to 23 February.

Gardens, tea room and shop open daily, 11am4pm. Admission adult £6.75, child £2.75 Where? Easton Walled Gardens, Easton, Grantham NG33 5AP. Tel: 01476 530063. www.eastonwalledgardens.co.uk

COTON MANOR

Drifting down from a 17th-century mellow stone manor house, this peaceful ten-acre Northamptonshire garden with its streams, fountains and ponds opens for 16 days to celebrate the beginning of the garden year with

In the Brudenell family since the 16th century and looking more like a castle than a family home, Deene Park presents an imposing sight amid its parkland acres, fine formal gardens and lawns sweeping down to a meandering lake.

Enjoy garden and lakeside walks amid swathes of snowdrops of many different varieties, including the delightfully named Blewbury Tart and Pusey Green Tip. When? Snowdrop Sundays: 16 and 23 February.

Gardens, gift shop and Old Kitchen tearoom open 11am to 4pm. Admission adult £4, child

under 5, free Where? Deene Park, Corby NN17 3EW. Tel: 01780 450278. www.deenepark.com

LITTLE PONTON HALL GARDENS With a fine 18th-century house for a backdrop, swathes of snowdrops clothe the banks of the River Witham and aconites form a golden carpet alongside the winding path to the tiny village church dedicated to St Guthlac. Open in aid of the National Gardens Scheme, this is a great opportunity to visit, for this secret garden is rarely open to the public.

When? Snowdrop Weekend: 15, 16 February, 11am to 4pm. Admission adult £5. Light refreshments available, plants for sale. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome.

Where? Little Ponton Hall, Grantham NG33 5BS. Tel: 01476 530342. www.littlepontonhallgardens.org.uk

Private gardens open for National Gardens Scheme (NGS) charities Sunday 23 February

OUNDLE

BOURNE

WANSFORD

Cliff and Joan Curtis’ small walled garden behind their 300-year old cottage hosts snowdrops, primroses, hellebores and early spring bulbs.

• 21 Chapel Street, Hacconby, Bourne PE10 0UL. Tel: 01778 570314. Open 11am to 4pm.

Admission adult £2.50. Homemade teas.

Designed as a series of ‘secret spaces’, there are myriad surprises in Stephen and Pepita Aris’s tranquil walled garden.

• Jericho, Market Place, Oundle PE8 4AJ. Tel: 01832 275416. Open 12 noon to 4pm.

Admission adult £3.

Carole and Forbes Smith’s small woodland garden is home to their collection of over 200 varieties of snowdrops and many other spring bulbs.

• 6 Robinswood, Wansford PE8 6JQ. Tel: 01780 783094. Open 11am to 4pm. Admission adult £2.50. Plants for sale, teas available.

NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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23/1/14 16:37:34

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23/01/2014 15:32

HOM E & GAR DE N

PA RT YP SP LAN EC IAL NIN G

A bit of a do...

Whether it’s a landmark birthday, a wedding, or a special anniversary, having a party brings friends and family together, creating shared memories to treasure.

In our six page celebration pull-out, we help you to create a low-stress, fun-filled event using the very best of the area’s businesses

N

o party is complete without invitations, flowers – or music, and we’ve found something to suit every taste and budget.

iana MacDuff Martin and D ys! r 40th Birthda e celebrating thei

ar

INVITATIONS

Email has virtually rendered traditional postal communication a thing of the past, but that’s exactly why it feels so special to receive a proper invitation in the post. By having it printed, you can personalise it as much as you want to: use a drawing or painting by you or a family member, or experiment with different typefaces, for example. Your local printer will help you explore the options and it may well work out cheaper than you think.

Contacts: Inkwell Printing, Barnwell Workshops, Barnwell, Peterborough PE8 5PL Tel: 01832 273745 www.inkwellprinting.co.uk Spiegl Press, Unit 4, Guash Way, Ryhall Rd, Stamford PE9 1XH Tel: 01780 702 550 www.spieglpress.com The Houndogs/DG Music

Rutland. LE15

Invitation s from Sp iegl Press

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ncin for dinner & da Please join them s rm A r at The Exete Barrowden 13 ay, 13th July 20 rd tu Sa on at 7.30 p.m.

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Mrs A ndrew Sharp e To Ce At Ho lebra me te the 5 0 th Bir At 122 thday Ebury of Ch Stree arlie C t, Belg rackn ravia, On Sa ell Londo turday n, SW 29th 19QQ June 2 013 R.S.V.P .

Mrs C Crack nell Holm bury C ottage Lyddin gton Rutlan d, LE15 9LT 01572 823191 or 07 768186

“Use a drawing or painting by you or a family member, or experiment with different typefaces” 582

Dinne r 7:00 pm Smart Casua l

MUSIC Consider the kind of atmosphere you want to create. Are you looking forward to the party of the year, or would you prefer something more understated so guests can chat over drinks? To help you make the right choices for your requirements, consider using the services of a professional music agency. DG Music is one of the largest and most successful music in the UK, with hundreds of artists to choose from. They can fulfil all your music requirements, from classical artists, to swinging party bands, plus handling all the logistics and contractual administration. They also provide staging, marquees, lighting, PA systems, DJs and dance floors.

In Peterborough, Steve Allen Entertainments has 30 years’ experience in the industry. Whether you are looking for a tribute band, a magician, childrens’ entertainer, a string quartet, a fun casino or a mobile disco, this company has great contacts and a cast iron reputation.

If you prefer a more DIY approach, hire a sound system and compile your own playlist to broadcast through top quality speakers. PDS Sound and Lighting in Peterborough do basic party packages starting at just £75. Pop in, see what’s on offer and discuss your requirements with very helpful staff.

If you prefer something very relaxing for your guests, classical guitarist Steve Bean has an excellent repertoire of soothing sounds. A regular at the Olive Grove Nurseries near Polebrook, Steve is a multi-talented musician, who also plays with soul band Motor City Vipers.

Contacts: Steve Allen Entertainments, tel: 01733 569589 www.sallenent.co.uk www.dgmusic.co.uk PDS Sound and Lighting, 21 Ivatt Way Business Park, Westwood, Peterborough PE3 7PG Tel: 01733 261199 Steve Bean, classical guitarist, tel: 07709 772269 www.stevebean.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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HOM E & GAR DE N

FLOWERS

Purely Flowers at www.purelyflowers.co.uk

Central to any wedding to help define the style and atmosphere, flowers can also deliver something really special to any party. Whether your style is formal and precise, or rustic and rambling, you can find a florist to suit you.

Here are some local names: Bespoke Buds, Peterborough Tel: 01733 344738 www.bespokebuds.com Normans, 14 Market Place, Oundle Tel: 01832 273545 www. normansoundle.co.uk Foxtail Lilly, Oundle Tel: 01832 274593 www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk Helen Jane Floristry, Glinton Tel: 07852 100982 www.helenjanefloristry.co.uk Fleur by Lizz, 31 Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NH Tel: 01733 311159 Designer Flowers of Rutland – Ketton Tel: 01780 720999 www.designerflowersofrutland.co.uk Milestones, Oundle Tel: 01832 274305 www.milestonesflorist.co.uk Foxtail Lilly

The Wansford Cakery

Foxtail Lilly

CAKES A cake provides a centrepiece, a talking point and a focus for the party. But a spectacular cake needs the wow factor. We’ve listed some makers in our caterers’ directory, but here are some other options to consider:

CHEESE CAKES AND PORK PIE TOWERS If you have a savoury tooth, a tiered cheese display with fruit and berries makes a great change. Try the Stamford Cheese Cellar, tel 01780 489269 for a great selection. Or how about a a pork pie cake, ideal served as a late evening snack with cheese and pickle? Nelson’s make fabulous pies in Stamford. To find out more, contact Guy Gilman on 01780 763345, www.nelsonsbutchers.co.uk

The Wansford Cakery

BAKES AND BROWNIES Brownies make a good alternative to a traditional iced cake. They look great piled high, and served with strawberries and cream. The Brownie Company offers square cut brownies, or for a wedding, a ‘brownie heart’ is a lovely alternative to a fruit or sponge cake. Call 01780 460415 for details, or visit www.thebrowniecompany.co.uk For the best home baking, The Wansford Cakery takes some beating. You can pre-order owner Lindsey Eassom’s delicious traybakes, tiffin and cupcakes for your celebration. Find the Cakery at 31 Elton Rd, Wansford, phone 07754321895 or email thewansfordcakery@gmail.com Cupcakes are still popular and make a great centrepiece. Blossom Cupcakes, based in Orton Longueville, Peterborough, hand bake and decorate vanilla or chocolate cupcakes in vibrant colours and designs. You can choose mini cupcakes, a giant cupcake, or even a cupcake bouquet! Tel: 07511 372717

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NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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qu A ot at W rea’ io e s b ns w e fo ill st p r S b e ri he at ces ra an . to y n Ki tc he ns

30 room settings on show

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LARGE SHOWROOM We have a large selection of the latest contemporary stoves by all leading manufacturers

NO CHIMNEY? NO PROBLEM!

The areas

NEW

We supply & install Stovax - Twin wall flue systems

displays now fitted

LARGEST Kitchen Showroom We will beat any like for like quote WE ARE HERE

Es

cal Compa ny t Lo

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1981 - 32 Years

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The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk www.qksstamford.co.uk

01536 410777 Unit 7 Orion Way, The Constellations, Kettering Business Park NN15 6NL Email: admin@colesforfires.co.uk www.colesforfires.co.uk

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23/01/2014 11:47

PA RT Y PLANNING SPE CIAL

A-Z of Caterers Sarah Lyon picks the best of the best of the local suppliers

F

is for Fresh: Kings Cliffe based Rachael Kelley makes and serves fresh soups from her lovingly converted 1976 Citroen H horsebox. She can cater for family gatherings, events, festivals and fetes, and offers a selection of menus as well as soups, including stews, chillies, salads and buffets, all made using local ingredients.

Tel: 01780 479035 or 07807119906

A

is for Amaani Spice. Delicately blended spices create authentic Indian dishes by caterer Parveen Asraf. Experience an Indian themed event with the colour and spice of authentic Indian food with an option to participate in some Bhangra and Bollywood style dancing.

Tel: 07789 438273, www.amaanispice.co.uk

B

is for Beetroot Catering – 2012 was a great year for Beetroot Catering and Events (based near Oundle) and 2013 was equally auspicious. Having made the shortlist for 2012 Best Caterer in the East Midlands region in The Wedding Industry Awards (www.the-wedding-industryawards.co.uk), Beetroot is fast developing an impressive reputation, bucking the trend for set menus and developing innovative ideas for its growing list of client events across Northamptonshire; Cambridge; Rutland and Lincolnshire. Director Keith Mickleburgh has been a chef for over 20 years. Beetroot’s philosophy is simple, “professional catering, locally sourced.” Contact Keith: 07921 672076, www.beetrootcatering.co.uk

C D E

is for ‘Queen of Canapes’ – contact sarah.food@googlemail.com, Tel: 07598 926 701

GIFT TAGS, ARTWORK BY SARAH LYON

is for Dine Divine events caterers based in Peterborough. Fresh food locally sourced. Tel: 01733 704407, www.dinedivine.co.uk

is for Eclectic mix of high quality party food with a fresh, contemporary appeal from Otter’s Deli. Leo and team provide beautiful buffets full of the finest cheeses and super biscuits, charcuterie, chutneys, smoked salmon (Pinney’s hand smoked). Tel: 01572 756481, www.ottersdeli.co.uk

K L

is for Kate’s Little Cakes – Best brownies ever! www.kateslittlecakes. co.uk, Tel: 07745 520772

is for Local with caterer Fiona Herbert. Using the highest quality ingredients, promoting British farming and local produce at all times. Tel: 01636 812434, www.fionaherbertcatering.co.uk

M

is for Menu Matching, just one of the personal services available free when you buy wine from award winning independent retailer, Duncan Murray in Market Harborough. The atmosphere is down to earth and friendly and Duncan has great offers on wholesale, wines, beers and spirits ‘with personality’. Tel: 01858 464935, www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

G

is for Grainstore Brewery – Book a bar with the Grainstore Brewery and you can expect a complete mobile bar service with fully trained, experienced staff and peace of mind over insurance and licensing. Choice of venue is no problem – marquees, halls, gardens, or fields. Tel: 01572 770065, www.grainstorebrewery.com

H

is for handmade, homemade food catered to you by Rutland based caterer Sara McAllister. Sara’s team can cater gatherings large or small and with over twenty years of experience she has plenty of advice and ideas to offer. Tel: 07778 227734, www.saramcallister.co.uk

I

is for the ‘I’ in Thaymar Ice Cream.

Design your own ice cream flavour and have it served on your wedding day to your family and friends. Ice creams are made on the farm using farm fresh milk and double cream sourced from the neighbouring dairy. Haughton Park Farm, nr Retford, Notts, Tel: 01623 862632

J

is for Japanese Cuisine – Ginko.

Japanese cook, Yuko can provide Japanese lunches and suppers to order as well as larger scale catering for either an intimate gathering of friends or larger affair. For more information, www. ginkos.co.uk or email sushi@ginkos.co.uk

N

is for New Lodge Farm succulent roasts. The traditional and slow roasted home produced taste of Simon and Sarah Singlehurts meat; pork, lamb and beef roasts (top of the leg Aberdeen Angus beef). The Singlehurts can organise an innovative selection of salads to be catered alongside the roast. Tel: 01780 450493, www.newlodgefarm.com

O

is for opulent personalised chocolates created by chocolatier Jan Hansen. Using edible ink (cocoa butter with natural colourings) Jan creates initials and names to compliment his beautiful handmade chocolates. Hansens Chocolate House, Folkingham (follow the A15 north of Bourne) , Tel: 01529 497297, www.mrchocolate.co.uk

P

is for the perfect pastries from the Small Bread Company (based in Barnwell nr Oundle) Handmade fresh pastries, almond croissants, chocolate and custard twists, apricot stars, bear claws (frangipane with cinnamon filling), chocolate croissants; especially delicious for a morning after breakfast party. For more information on orders and delivery, contact email filam@ thesmallbreadcompany.com.

ESS E N T I ALIVING L W E D FEBRUARY D I N G S 22014 014 2646NENE VALLEY

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Q

is for Quintessentially English with Tiffin Kitchen – Local vintage picnic caterers. In collaboration with vintage crockery supplier and event stylist Rebecca Sayward from Vintage Teas and RSVPs, this service offers the complete package – gorgeous wicker hampers, beautiful mismatched vintage china, cutlery and glassware and a delectable spread prepared by the Tiffin Kitchen’s Tasha Kosviner.

Tel: 07795 007792, ww.vintageteasandrsvps. co.uk/catering.html

R

is for Rutland Gourmet. Sarah Rivett can cater for any size event. She has a variety of menus and to help you further she offers a tasting service.

Tel: 01572 747909, www.rutlandgourmet.co.uk

S

is for Stamford Wedding Company – Andy Beamish of Events & Tents teams up with Susan Fenner of Jeeves Catering to create Stamford Wedding Company. With their combined knowledge and expertise they offer a package which can include venue, stunning marquee and fabulous catering but also elements such as fantastic flowers, music, photography, bars and Pimms and ice-cream cycle…and more. No organiser’s fee. Susan Fenner Tel: 01778 345020, www.stamfordweddingcompany.co.uk

T U

is for Theatrical and fun with Tuesdays Pancakes. Pancakes paddled on traditional cast iron griddles. Tel: 01949 843203, www.tuesdayspancakes.co.uk is for uniquely individual artisan breads and puddings created and catered by Hambleton Bakery.

Master Baker, Julian and his team bake traditional sourdough and wholemeal loaves, beautiful buns, plus traditional puddings, treacle and fruit tarts, including lemon too.

Tel: 01572 757541, www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

Jack Harrison. Jack can also cater an eclectic mix of great BBQ food; homemade burgers (stilton or piri piri), magic chicken with honey, aged rib eye stakes or wood over roasted rib of aged beef accompanied by some great salads.

Contact Jack at jack100harrison@aol.com

X

is for Exotic Thai food catered by Tukata Bird of Tuk Tuk Foods, www. tuktukfoods.co.uk. Visit Tuk and sample her food at her street market stall in Red Lion Square, Stamford on a Saturday.

Y?

Because their cake boutique menu is simply the best! Mouth-watering macaroons, sublime sachertorte and other cakes to tantalize your taste buds, Johannah’s Patisserie can cater a picnic tea for up to one hundred guests.

Tel: 01572 868151, www.johannahs-patisserie.co.uk

V W

is for Vintage adventure with Vintage English. Tel: 07717706213, www.vintageenglish.co.uk

is for Wood Fired Pizza Oven. “Pizza making is visual entertainment for guests. They watch us roll out the dough, add the toppings and slide the pizza into the wood fired oven.

It lends itself to a casual, relaxed event,” says

Z

is for the ‘Zesty’ Wedding Breakfast; a thin cut lemon marmalade with champagne and crème de cassis.

Tel: 01780 450774, www.thepickledvillage. co.uk, Bulwick Village Store, Bulwick NN17 3DY

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23/01/2014 11:50

PA RTY PLANNING SPE CIAL

It’s party time!

Whether you’re looking for an intimate venue for 30 people or a grand, historic building for a large wedding, there are some amazing places in the local area at which to host your celebration. So here’s our guide to the best party venues in and around the Nene valley…

THE QUEEN’S HEAD

THE BULL HOTEL

www.peterborobullhotel.com This historic hotel in the centre of Peterborough offers a welcoming atmosphere along with the kind of slick service you’d expect from a four-star, city centre establishment. There are two large function suites which each have their own private bar, dance floor and cloakroom facilities. They can each accommodate up to 160 people for a wedding or dinner dance. If it’s a wedding you’re planning, the venue has a dedicated, in-house Wedding Co-ordinator to help you every step of the way in the run up to the big day as well as a licence to hold civil ceremonies right there in the hotel.

No need to transport guests from the register office to the reception venue! Accommodation is plentiful here, with 118 well-appointed bedrooms including a four-poster suite - perfect for the bride and groom. * The Bull Hotel is hosting a Wedding Fayre on Sunday 9th February from 11am-4pm. Entry is free and exhibitors will include bridal gown, cake and flower suppliers.

Venue capacity: 160 guests Unique selling point: Tradition coupled with city centre convenience

ELTON FURZE GOLF CLUB

THE TALBOT HOTEL www.thetalbot-oundle.com Oundle’s recently-refurbished, former 16th century coaching inn is a show-stopper when it comes to planning a party. The three function rooms can hold a party or wedding for between 10 and 100 guests, and there is a resident Wedding Co-ordinator to take all the stress out of organising your celebration. The Whitwell Room is particularly charming with its oak panelling and large stone fireplaces and is licenced to host the wedding ceremony itself as well as the reception. The rear private garden area is perfect for al fresco drinks and overnight stays are a delight in one of the hotels 34 luxurious bedrooms.

www.queensheadnassington.co.uk This traditional inn on the banks of the River Nene in Nassington offers award-winning food in its charming Garden Room which is ideal for small to medium-sized functions. A marquee can be erected on the lawn by the river if required and exclusive use of the entire pub is also an option, including use of the nine ensuite bedrooms. The venue also has a licence to hold civil ceremonies making it the perfect onestop shop for nuptials. Typical dishes include Beef Wellington with Dauphinoise Potato and Roast Breast of Chicken with a Sage and Thyme Crust.

Venue capacity: 120 guests Unique selling point: Riverside charm and award-winning food

* The Talbot Hotel came top in the ‘Best Wedding Venue – Northamptonshire’ category in the 2014 WeddingDates awards.

Venue capacity: 100 guests Unique selling point: Where history and modernity collide

www.efgc.co.uk Perfect for an informal wedding or summer party, Elton Furze Golf Club can provide fine dining for your guests along with stunning views of the surrounding Cambridgeshire countryside. There are four wedding menus to choose from featuring dishes such as Twice Cooked Belly Pork with Fondant Potato and Baked Salmon with a Pesto and Parmesan Crust. Great value and personal service abound at this modern clubhouse facility.

Venue capacity: 170 guests Unique selling point: Party planning down to a tee!

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PA RTY PLANNING SPE CIAL

WADENHOE HOUSE

THE RED LION, WARMINGTON www.theredlionwarmington.co.uk A warm welcome awaits at The Red Lion, a family-run establishment which has been running successfully under the current management since 2006. Excellent homemade food and a great atmosphere are guaranteed.

Recent building work has resulted in an additional dining room – which can seat up to 30 – and the original main restaurant can host a celebration for up to 40 guests. There’s also a marquee option for a summer wedding or party which can provide fantastic extra seating and that all-important dance floor.

Venue capacity: 64 guests Unique selling point: The warmest of welcomes

www.wadenhoe-house.com Fancy being Lord and Lady of the manor for the day? Well, then you may have come to the right place. Wadenhoe House is a gorgeous Jacobean manor house a few miles outside Oundle which provides the perfect setting for a wedding or special celebration. A private home which opens its doors on an exclusive use basis, Wadenhoe House offers grand reception rooms, 27 bedrooms and eight acres of beautifullylandscaped gardens. The food is a particular treat here, with dishes often being prepared with fruit and vegetables sourced from the estate’s own kitchen garden. For a larger wedding, a marquee can be set up on the lawn, enjoying stunning views of the house, the River Nene and the surrounding countryside. Wadenhoe’s Wedding Co-ordinator can recommend trusted photographers, florists and entertainment, and will work with you during the lead up to the big day to create a bespoke wedding package.

Venue capacity: 140 guests Unique selling point: Your very own stately home

THE CHEQUERED SKIPPER

www.chequeredskipper.co.uk The Chequered Skipper in Ashton now has more than 70 weddings under its belt and easy to see why this pretty thatched pub is so popular – particularly for summer weddings. An adjoining barn has been converted into the tasteful ‘Green Room’ function facility which can easily seat 60 for a traditional wedding breakfast. If more seating is required, a marquee can be added onto the end of the Green Room to accommodate up to 140 guests in total. The Skipper promises buckets of character and amazing wedding photography opportunities as your guests spill out onto Ashton’s picturesque village green.

Venue capacity: 140 guests Unique selling point: Village charm

THE BLACK HORSE, ELTON

ORTON HALL HOTEL

www.blackhorseelton.co.uk The recently renovated Black Horse pub in Elton oozes sophistication with its stunning new interior which features chandeliers in the bar, painted wooden panelling and characterful leather tub chairs.

But The Black Horse still hasn’t lost its ‘traditional inn’ feel, as reflected in its menu which features favourites such as Steak & Ale Pie and Bangers and Mash. The pub has a private dining room which can seat up to 30 guests – the perfect choice for a family celebration or special birthday. Menus can be tailored according to a party organiser’s needs, but specialities include Tapas, Cider Braised Pork Belly and Beer Battered Cod. Venue capacity: 30 guests Unique selling point: A celebration with style

www.abacushotels.co.uk/orton-hall-hotel-and-spa If it’s a grand setting you have in mind for your big day, then look no further than Orton Hall Hotel. This spectacular 17th century manor house which lies just two miles from Peterborough city centre promises a day to remember.

You can choose from the Great Room with its grand, baronial feel, the more modern Orton Suite, or the Conservatory which enjoys incredible views over the surrounding parkland. All three function rooms are licenced to hold civil ceremonies.

Set in 20 acres of mature parkland, majestic Orton Hall is every wedding photographer’s dream, so you’re sure to get some incredible images of your special day. There are 70 en suite bedrooms for you and your guests to stay in, and the hotel also boasts a spa and leisure club should you wish to linger and enjoy the facilities further. Private dining for smaller celebrations is also offered at Orton Hall.

Venue capacity: 150 guests.

Unique selling point: History and grandeur

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23/1/14 16:57:39

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22/01/2014 14:45

GAR DE NING

Adam the Gardener L

ocal gardening talent, Adam Frost has an impressive CV, having worked with many of the garden design greats, including our dearly loved Geoff Hamilton at Barnsdale Gardens. Adam has won an impressive five gold medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. This year his Chelsea garden is called “Time to Reflect” which takes inspiration from the dramatic Devonshire countryside

Jobs to do in your Garden The first thing to do this month is get yourself organised and check out all last year’s kit – it’s a great time to mend and sharpen your tools, repair gate hinges and stain fences on a dry day. Clean your greenhouse and wash down your terrace to scrub away any winter blues!

It’s also a good opportunity to decide what you are going to plant in your vegetable garden, along with any changes that you want to make to your main garden area. There’s still time to turn the ground over and get some organic muck on it before planting starts.

One thing I love and treated myself to a few years ago was a beautiful terracotta ‘rhubarb forcer’ from Whichford Pottery (www. whichfordpottery.com). If you don’t have one,

Adam says: February is officially my least favourite month – I’d happily disappear off on a plane somewhere warmer and be brought back early March – perhaps I should look into hibernating! But on a positive note, there are small signs of the approaching spring with wildlife waking up as light and temperature levels increase slightly. I personally can’t wait until the garden comes to life again, so roll on March – roll on!

This winter has been a wet one, rather than a cold one and many of the animals will be feeling worse for wear so we should do all we can to look after them. Hang birdfeeders and keep bowls topped up with fresh water.

Perhaps get the kids involved and put a nest box up in the garden ready for spring. you can use a nice big bucket that’s 50cm tall to cover the rhubarb and put it in the dark. After 3-4 weeks you’ll discover delicious thin pink stems that melt in your mouth – such an early seasonal treat, which is particularly good with ice-cream!

Shallots are easy to grow and from just one bulb you will get between 5-7 shallots. Also make sure you buy your seed potatoes now.

Plant some Jerusalem Artichokes as they make some fantastic soups. The bulbous fibrous root also makes really good chips! Artichokes can work in lots of ways - in just one season they can grow up to 5ft high and make a great cover for birds throughout the season. You can even put them at the back of a border where they look fantastic and have the added advantage of being a good wind breaker (in more ways than one!). Dig and divide them every few years and sow a crop off them.

You can also sow a few things under glass or poly tunnels or cloches to get them going – like lettuce, spinach, onions, garlic and peas.

You could even put a few potatoes in a pot to get them going early – ready to enjoy for your Sunday lunches. I’m still a believer that you should wait until the soil has warmed up in March before planting anything outside – particularly with our colder, heavier soil around this area. A good rule is when the weeds start to show their head, it’s warm enough to start sowing.

Lily bulbs can be planted in pots in a cool

greenhouse and moved outside when in flower.

Prune fruit bushes and cut buddleia and wisteria down to keep it compact.

Winter PlantinG Over the years, herbaceous plants have done all the work, but winter is a pretty cool time for shrubs as mentioned recently on the BBC Garden Revival programmes – Amaryllis,Vibernum, Sarcococca, Witch Hazel, Winter honeysuckles will all give something to your garden this time next year. There’s still time to order some roses or get a bare root tree in the garden - I love the Betula – a beautiful ghostly looking tree, or the River Birch tree with its pale pink flaky bark as it ages. It looks great inter-planted with some of the dark Ilexes.

Winter colour doesn’t just come from bulbs but from other areas, so it’s a good time to add some interest to your garden if it seems lacking – look at shrubs and winter trees to put a smile on your face next year e.g. Prunus serrula, Betula nigra, Betula utilis, Acer griseum. Choose a multi-stemmed tree to get the most out of the impressive winter bark. Another consideration in winter is scent in the garden, which can be very special as it tends to be strong and almost hypnotic which adds an element of surprise to a winter bloom. I always think winter flowers are a bit different and stand out as they have to work that bit harder in the cold.

• Contact: www.adamfrost.co.uk • adam Frost was speaking to antonia scott

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• NVL Feb ADS.indd 33

22/01/2014 14:45

B OURNE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

11+ Testing and Year 7 Admissions Information Evening Parent s who currently have a child in Ye ar 5 are warmly invited to at tend an information evening at B ourne Gr ammar School on Tuesday 4th M arch 2014 at 7.0 0 pm Bourne Grammar School, South Road, Bourne, Lincolnshire, PE10 9JE Email: admissions@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Website: www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk

The Best Atmosphere, The Best Support, The Best Results 34

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22/01/2014 14:46

STA M FOR D PE OPLE

Vic Millington Railway Artist Words by Harjit Gammon

V

ic Millington has painted prolifically ever since he first went on the railways, though his love affair with art started back in childhood, which he spent happily drawing trains and playing with Hornby models (which he now restores). An idyllic, contented life, many might say. A man of modest means and happily for him modest needs, Millington was, he says, “born in the days when life was still all in black and white”. He took up painting, encouraged by an artistic mother, along with other enduring pastimes, in a precomputer era (which he has determinedly shunned) when such hobbies widely received approbation for their self improvement and enjoyment qualities.

“Throughout my younger life my artistic mum encouraged me to draw,” said Vic. “So in 1967 I enrolled for evening classes at Mundella School (Leicester) and was introduced to acrylic watercolours. But after two lessons I decided to teach myself.” In the years to follow he developed his own individual, atmospheric style, which was beautifully showcased in a book capturing memories and observations of a lifetime devoted to the railways, and in his evocative railway posters, which hark back to the era of grand railway travel.

However, despite painting for decades, he has only recently been persuaded to make his work available to the public, though he receives many offers to buy. A chance encounter with a biscuit tin, adorned with his work in an international airport, finally made him re-evaluate his own talent. To the best known of his artwork on the side of Harrods’ biscuit tins Vic can also proudly add international acclaim and recognition in Japan, where his art has gained awards at important competitions. He loves the art and culture of his Japanese partner Fumiko’s country and recounts how, on learning of his first success there he asked what the prize was.

“I was politely told: ‘No prize, just honour’. That, in Japan, is priceless.”

He works in the kitchen of his diminutive

Medieval home, overlooking a courtyard lovingly cluttered with railway memorabilia, with his drawing board ingeniously squeezed across the deep stone sink. Each painting, reminiscent of railway posters from the heyday of rail travel, takes him a week or more to complete, and is painstakingly worked to a high standard. Vic travels to the places he paints, all of which are on his beloved railway. Each painting is completely original, and often features figures from the fifties, “a simpler more innocent time,” he says, in the scene.

The railways are almost literally in the blood of this dedicated rail man, who started his career, in what used to be an honourable profession, in the steam era on the GCR at Leicester and finished it 38 years later on the GCR at Marylebone. Both his paternal and maternal great-great-grandfathers, their brothers and sons, worked for the railway, stretching back to the 1840s. So, when aged 17, after leaving Gateway Boys Grammar School, Leicester, Vic joined the signals and telecommunications department at Leicester Central in 1961, it seemed a rather natural and fitting continuation of a long family tradition. In

1969 the recently married young Vic moved to Cornwall; becoming a signalman at Goonbarrow Junction on the Newquay branch. It was during this period; Vic’s passion for painting took a new turn. He won a BR poster competition, which resulted in a commission for 25 views of the then current Western Region to be hung in the general manager’s suite at Paddington. He was also commissioned to produce posters of the newly introduced HST (High Speed Train) for display nationwide. After an idyllic time on the railways in Cornwall, he returned to his Leicester roots in 1990, following the sad break-up of his marriage. Several railway jobs followed, including roster clerk at Peterborough.

They were “happy days”, he says, as he reflects on the “delightful” and “perfect” time he spent on the railways.

• For enquiries about his work and posters, priced at £60, contact: railwayposterart@gmail.com Further examples of his work, including Stamford, Oakham, Ketton & Uppingham stations can be seen at: www.vintagecountryliving.com NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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OPEN DAYS

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D IA RY DAT E S

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

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

Tuesday 25 February How to Be Immortal 7.45pm Live music, dead people, love and DNA all intertwine in this twisted new play about what death leaves behind… £9.50.The Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ. 01832 273930. stahltickets@ oundleschool.org.uk; www.stahltheatre. co.uk.

What’s On Yasmin Bradley selects events to go to in February

Saturday 1 February Sunday 27 April Treasure from Trash!

Be amazed at what can be made from rubbish – jewellery from old flip-flops, toy cars from metal cans and a 3D chicken from plastic bags!

Free. Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE11.

01733 864663. museum@vivacitypeterborough.com. www.peterborough. gov.uk/leisure_and_culture/museum_ and_galleries.aspx Wednesday 5 February Writers in Peterborough 7.30pm Acclaimed Cambridge crime writer, Alison Bruce talks about her fictional detective, DC Gary Goodhew in the novels “Cambridge Blue”, “The Silence”, and “The Backs” - all on sale. £7 (£5). The Quality Hotel, Thorpe Meadows, PE3 6GA 01778 342766. www.wip.btik.com Wednesday 5 February A Lost Landscape Reborn 7.30pm Learn about the conflicts involved in draining Whittlesey Mere, once the largest lake in South England and the fascinating story of the recreation of its lost Fen landscape through the internationally-recognised Great Fen project.

Wednesday 12 February Logboats, Pile Dwellings & Causeways: Bronze Age Must Farm and Flag Fen in Context 7.30pm New evidence about life 3,000 years ago from the eight Bronze Age and Iron Age boats and hundreds of beautifully preserved objects discovered at Must Farm, Whittlesey.

Pre-booking essential. Tickets:Peterborough Museum; 01733 864 663; museum@vivacity-peterborough.com.

Flag Fen, The Droveway, Northey Road, Peterborough PE6 7QJ. Saturday 8 February Roman Pottery Making Heritage Workshop 1 -4pm Ceramicist Richard Gibson shows you how to make your own earthenware amphora using a hand-powered centrifugal throwing wheel, moulds and coiling. £45. Pre-booking essential. Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough PE11. 01733 864663. museum@vivacity-peterborough.com, Bookbinding: how to make a notebook 1pm-4pm Use the traditional skill of hand bookbinding to create your own hardback notebook, under the expert

guidance of Barry Brignall of Cambridge based Brignall bookbinders. £30. Pre-booking required. Peterborough Museum, details as above.

Sunday 9 – Monday 17 February Wildlife Week at Sacrewell Farm & Country Centre 9.30 -5pm daily A small mammal safari, pond dipping, bats in the watermill and swans on the Mill Pond, craft activities and a bumpy tractor/trailer ride around the 550-acre working farm. £6.95. Child: £5.25. Family: £21.50. Sacrewell Farm & Country Centre, Thornhaugh, Peterborough, PE8 6HJ. 01780 782254. www.sacrewell.org.uk.

Monday 24 February The Roman Villa at Itter Crescent and the Fane Road Heritage Lottery Project 7.30pm Learn about a spectacular Roman villa hidden under Peterborough allotments and a new community heritage project ‘The Romans of Fane Road’! £3 (£2) John Clare Theatre, Peterborough Central Library, Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1RX. Wednesday 26 February Julian and Jiaxin Lloyd Webber 7.30pm A rare opportunity to hear Julian Lloyd Webber together with wife and fellow cellist, Jiaxin present intimate performances of music by the great composers. £25. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. key.theatre@vivacity-peterborough.com. www.vivacity-peterborough.com/event/julian-and-jiaxinlloyd-webber

NENE VALLEY LIVING FEBRUARY 2014

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£45 including lunch & goody bag

www.quincepa.com nikkita@quincepa.com | 07764 562852

Holly Wright MCFHP MAFHP

WE COME TO YOU 7 DAYS A WEEK

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

Wadenhoe Village Hall near Oundle

Flexible administration service to work around you, your business or family

TEL: TOM 402555 WE COME TO YOU07538 7 DAYS A WEEK YOUR CAR VALETED TO SHOWROOM

YOGA & WELL-BEING DAY SUNDAY 27TH APRIL

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Telephone 07931 624325 email: hollywright18@yahoo.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL MOBILE CAR VALETING PROFESSIONAL MOBILE CAR TEL: TOM 07538 VALETING 402555

NINA HEATON

Creating opportunities for change

Professional PA Service

HOME VISITS FOR:* Removal of Corns and Calluses * Ingrowning Toenails * Toenails clipped * Fungal Nail Treatments * Specialising in the Diabetic and Neurovascular patient * competitive rates

FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER

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

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MARTIN WELSH Independent Aga Engineer

Loose weight now!

Ask me how?

Whether it is losing weight, balancing your nutrition, or minimising your snacking cravings.

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

I am an independent distributor for HERBALIFE. For you free health assessment E-mail Simon on wellnessstore247@gmail.com or call me on 07939 439415. www.herbalife.co.uk

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

Free initial consultation www.curativehypnotherapy.com

swbelectrical@yahoo.co.uk www.swbelectrical.co.uk

TO PLACE AN ADVERT IN NEXT MONTHS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL BRIDGET ON 01733 707538

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Garage Doors

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Orangeries | Conservatories | Contemporary Extensions | Verandas

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The perfect choice for your perfect wedding day

The Talbot Hotel Oundle provides a great atmospheric alternative to modern hotels and our Grade 1 listed; 17th century building is full of charm, character and history.

Situated in the heart of the beautiful Georgian market town of Oundle, we are located just a short stroll from the St Peter’s and Most Holy Name of Jesus churches. Alternatively, you can hold your civil ceremony with us in The Talbot Hotel in one of our wonderful suites.

When it comes to organising your special day our team of friendly staff have a wealth of experience to help you create your perfect wedding day.

We can individually design your wedding breakfast and we will happily cater to suit your precise requirements, from light canapés to a five course celebratory dinner.

Contact our Manager on 01832 273621 to book your visit and see for yourselves just how wonderful your wedding day could be.

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

www.twitter.com/talbothotel

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