Nene Valley Living July 2012

HELPING YOU TO GET THE MOST OUT OF LIVING LOCALLY

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

L A V I T S FE R E M M SU LOCAL FOOD, FASHION AND MUSIC

£1.50 JULY 2012

@LocalLivingUK

WWW.BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK

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9 771740 052017

WIN! Dinner for two at Hambleton Hall LOCAL OLYMPIANS Home grown champions NVLJULYCOVER.indd 1

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• NVL July ADS.indd 2

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NENE VALLEY LIVING

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

This issu e Ju ly If you love music of any genre, food, or fashion, there is sure to be a local festival in the region for you this month. And if you’re not sure where to go or what to book first, our special issue should help as we’ve rounded up as much information as we can and picked out some highlights.

I know I’ll be heading to the Vintage Festival at Boughton House, near Kettering, and The Picnic in the Park in Oundle. I would also like to sign up for the print making workshop on July 18th, part of the Oundle International Festival, and I love the look of the Oundle Food Festival on July 21st, with its blend of street stalls and cookery demonstrations.

Surely we deserve some spectacular summer weather in July, so everyone can enjoy these meticulously planned events to the full!

Another annual event which deserves a special mention is Thurning Feast, which takes place on July 25th this year. Live bands, Digfield Ales, a hog roast, dancing, games, a mini fair and stalls, it’s a unique event which unfolds in the tiny village of Thurning, near Oundle. The action starts at 4.30 and the headline band, The Houndogs, are on stage at around 9.30pm. It’s free, as well.

If sport is more your thing, you’ll be looking forward to the Olympic Games. We’ve got a unique local take on that event, read more on page 29.

Enjoy the issue.

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

@LocalLivingUK Cover shot:

By Lesley Anne Churchill: Local cheeses from The Stamford Cheese Cellar, tel 01780 489269 and bread baked in Barnwell

by The Small Bread Company Tel: 01832 205540

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5 PICNIC IDEAS

Editor’s Selection

Picnic ideas

Upfront

Trek-kits on the move

Upfront

A vintage festival at Boughton House

11 Upfront

Take a look at Blueberry Kitchens

12 Upfront

Get 25 per cent off food at The Pheasant, Keyston

17 OUNDLE FOOD FESTIVAL

29 HOME GROWN OLYMPIANS Editor Fiona Cumberpatch fiona@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Nene Valley Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: localliving@btopenworld.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

14 Festival chic

Fashion for a summer of music

17 Food glorious food

Oundle’s Food Festival plus win a meal at Hambleton Hall

20 Food news

Oundle Mill reviewed

22 Telling tales

Sue Dobson previews Oundle International Festival

25 Free folk Fringe festival

26 Health and beauty notes Local business round up

29 Home grown Olympians Local talents then and now

32 Motoring

Volvo’s biggest off-roader reviewed

37 Diary dates Event highlights

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 JULY 2012

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21/6/12 17:00:37

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• NVL July ADS.indd 4

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Editor’s selection Everything you need for the perfect picnic

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Freestanding parasol, £199, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Stock your hamper with treats from Cooking for Real Life by Joanna Weinberg, who is demonstrating recipes at the Oundle Food Festival on July 21st. Order from The Oundle Bookshop, tel 01832 273523.

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Joules union jack wellies, around £36, Joules, Stamford

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Rustle up a hedgerow cordial with How to Make your Own Drinks by Susy Atkins to order from The Oundle Bookshop, tel 01832 273523

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Accessorise cold meats with a hot pickle, from local company, The Pickled Village, Bulwick, tel: 01780 450774 www. thepickledvillage.com

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Cheery Summer Folk picnic ware by John Lewis, £2 - £11

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Fleece backed picnic quilt by Oskimo by Lucy Milner, handmade in Titchmarsh. £59. Tel: 01832 733501 www.Facebook.com/Oskimotextiles

Picnic rucksack, with cutlery and plates, £25, Marks and Spencer, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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Nene Valley’s new Outdoor Centre!

Visit our new sales and rental facility!

• Top brands in our store • Kayak Day Rental • Kayak and canoe sales “try and buy” • 15% off for D of E • Walking boot rental • UK Mountaineering weekends • “How to read a map” days • Kids Parties • Specialist boot fitting • Kit and tent repairs

Open 7 days per week Visit our online store at

www.trek-kits.co.uk From July at The Wharf, Station Road , Oundle , PE8 4DE

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

Dive amongst the marine life on the Great Barrier Reef

Spotlight on Australia

Australia is vast, stretching from north to south nearly 2000 miles. This stunning country features three climates, the Tropic of Capricorn at its centre, three time zones, and many native plants and wildlife found nowhere else in the world.

For indulgence and luxury, try the coastal resorts on the eastern seaboard. Both Sydney and Melbourne are two vibrant state capitals and both make perfect bases for exploration. From Sydney you can explore the historic rocks and Circular Harbour, and join concert-goers in the iconic Opera House, or explore the Blue Mountains and taste wine in the stunning Hunter Valley. From Melbourne you could start your day floating gently over the Yarra Valley in a hot air balloon with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and end with dinner in one of Melbourne’s many great restaurants.

Queensland stretches up to the tropics, where hydrofoils from Cairns and Port Douglas take you to snorkel or dive amongst the marine life on the Great Barrier Reef. The must-see northern rainforests – Mossman Gorge in the World Heritage, listed Daintree National Park and the area around Kuranda are easily reached from Cairns and Port Douglas.

Alice Springs is Australia’s most famous outback township. Once just a station on the telegraph line, today you can explore the area’s rich history and heritage from Uluru - Ayers Rock - to the nearby Olgas, to Kings Canyon and the amazing landscape of the Watarrka National Park.

With the size and diversity of this wonderful country, planning your holiday may seem daunting.

But Oundle Travel are a designated Aussie Specialist for 2012/13 as recommended by the Australian Tourist Board. Itineraries can include smaller hotels if preferred, rail journeys, car hire and prebookable excursions, from a Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, to a Frazer Island Whale Watching - anything can be arranged. Oundle Travel are also able to arrange flights only, if you wish to visit friends and family.

For more information and advice, contact Oundle Travel on 01832 273600. www.oundletravel.co.uk

Jubilee memorabilia

Around 50 children from Woodnewton did themselves proud when they took up the challenge to design a plate for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at artist Rob Bibby’s village studio, Woodnewton Pottery (tel: 01780 470866).

Trek-kits move to Oundle Wharf Outdoor clothing and equipment specialists Trek-Kits are moving to Oundle Wharf from July 1st. As well as an expanded shop, Trek-Kits’ new riverside location will offer direct access to the water, where kayaks and canoes can be hired from just £35. It’s an exciting initiative for the business, which was started three years ago

by Nigel and Claire Crosby. “The site is perfect for us,” says Claire. “It is so sheltered, and on one side there is a nature reserve. We have many plans for the business: there is so much potential here.” The development of an online shop has added to Trek-Kits’ success, and their support of the Duke of Edinburgh award in local schools has attracted a core market. Trek-Kits offer 15 per cent off equipment for participants in the scheme, and they also hire walking boots for just £10 a week. They sell top brands and specialist equipment to help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely and in comfort.

Their kayaks have proved extremely popular with customers, and the hire scheme is something that Nigel and Claire are looking to develop. “As well as hourly and day hire, we can offer a complete camping package, including kayak hire, overnight accommodation, lunch and we will even supply steaks for your barbecue,” says Claire. “Why go abroad when we have all this on our doorstep?”

There are also plans in place for a climbing wall, where they will offer qualified instruction and parties for groups and corporate events, and a café will also be on the Wharf site in the future. “We have had excellent support from the local community, without which we would not have been able to survive these challenging times,” says Nigel. “However, we are now attracting many customers from outside the area and need to expand, otherwise I’ll have to move my desk outside!”

Trek-Kits, Oundle Wharf, Station Rd, Oundle PE8 4DE Tel: 01832 272050 • Oundle Wharf, now owned by Nene Valley Brewery, is set to become an exciting new destination in the area. For a full report on what’s happening there, see next month’s issue.

Reba winners Congratulations to Tracey Gaches of Peterborough and Sam Kelley of Apethorpe, winners of our Reba competition in the May issue. The lucky ladies win a £50 voucher and a £25 voucher respectively to spend in the Cathedral Square boutique.

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LOCAL NEWS

UPFRONT CALLING ALL COOL HUNTERS

Wayne and Geraldine Hemingway’s Vintage Festival is coming to the region. The three day event takes place at Boughton House, near Kettering, on July 13th -15th, and encapsulates all that’s great about British culture and classic style from the past 80 years.

What can you expect to see? Vintage nightclubs, with live performances and some stellar DJs, a roller disco, plus dance lessons from across the decades. Vintage classic cars, camper vans and caravans on display. Art and design schools for all ages and abilities. Catwalk shows curated by Twiggy and Jo Wood, amongst others, hair and beauty makeovers, 250 plus fashion and mid century modern homewares sellers and 45 upcycling workshops. And as if that isn’t enough, there will be brilliant food and cocktails, classic films, a bicycle bazaar, Vintage fun fair and a beautiful spot to camp if you want to make a weekend of it.

Wayne Hemingway says: “having won the title of the UK’s Best New Festival, Vintage is back and bigger than ever for 2012. We’re going to create a mecca for everyone to come and celebrate the Best of British culture, and we want the UK to join us.”

Great music will be a feature of this year’s festival, with names including Chic, featuring Nile Rogers, Baxter Dury (son of Ian), soul legend Betty Wright and the Swing Out Sister Big Band.

Festival partners include the V&A, British Fashion Council, Design Council, Design Museum, Museum of London and The University for the Creative Arts. The backdrop is the stunning Boughton Estate, a Grade 1 listed park, with beautifully designed landscapes, waterscapes and woodlands.

• Day tickets cost £57, Students, £50, and 11-17s, £30. Weekend tickets, noncamping, are £125. A booking fee is additional. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.vintagefestival.com

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NENE VALLEY PEOPLE Five minutes with Peterborough company director and former Olympic swimmer Mark Stevens, 37, an official Ambassador at London 2012.

Tell us about your Olympic experiences In 1996 I was fifth in the 4x200 freestyle and eighth in the the 4x100 freestyle. In 2000, I came ninth in the 4x100 freestyle.

When did you start swimming?

When I was three, for safety reasons. I started training at the Biddulph Swimming Club in Stoke-on-Trent, and then moved the Satellite Swimming club where I made the Olympic team in 1996. I moved to the University of Bath High Performance Centre in Bath for three years, before having one year in Cardiff, when I made my second Olympic Games.

When did you retire?

September 2000 What does your role as an Olympics Ambassador involve?

I meet and make presentations to groups of children before we go and watch some live sport in the Olympic park. The children get the opportunity to ask whatever they want in terms of professional/elite sport, with the hope that their experience will benefit not only their performance, but their team mates back at their own sports clubs.

OLYMPICS OFFER Mark is a director of Prestons Physiotherapy Ltd, of Peterborough, which he runs with his wife Helen Preston. She says: “Prestons has a long established history of treating sports people in the city and continues to do so at our purpose built rehabilitation studio in Alexandra Road, Peterborough. Albert Preston, my grandfather, was Peterborough United’s physiotherapist for 20 years, and my father, William Preston, was physio to the Peterborough Panthers for a number of years.”

“We treat all aspects of sports injury and have a team of specialised chartered physiotherapists, podiatrists, sports massage practitioners, acupuncturists and clinical Pilates teachers on hand.”

To mark London 2012, Prestons is offering an Olympics promotion to NVL readers: 20 per cent off initial assessment/treatment and subsequent second treatment (for a new episode of care) for all physiotherapy and sports massage patients. Just quote offer code OLYMPICNENE1. But don’t delay – the offer will extinguish with the Olympic flame on August 12!

• For details, call 01733 565911 or visit www.prestonsphysio.com

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D E N G I S E D R O F ING LIV

STUNNING NEW SHOWHOME OPENING SATURDAY JULY 7th

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Itter Crescent, Peterborough, PE4 6SW Next to Green Flag award winning Itter Park. Fantastic access to Peterborough city centre and beyond. Select development of 34 exclusively privately owned homes. One of Peterborough’s “premier” addresses.

Prices from £249,950 to £419,950

Call: 01733 321 400

We’ll buy yours so that you can buy one of ours.

• A good offer for your old home based on independent valuatons • Stay in your existing home until your new house is ready • No estate agent fees • Stress free move

VISIT: Thursday through to Monday 10.30am - 5.00pm with a late night opening until 7.30pm on a Thursday. CLOSED TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY.

www.bellway.co.uk *Prices correct at time of going to press. Specification on site may differ.

Picture for illustration purposes only. Bellway reserve the right to refuse a part exchange,

terms & conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk.

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20/6/12 15:32:47

Cast In Time Create unique memories...

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e create original personalised sculptures produced to the highest standards and quality.

From the first precious moment of your newborn’s arrival, to their first birthday, your toddler’s first steps to their teenage years.

Adult years, your loved ones, proud parents and grandparents - all unique individuals where we can create exclusive and affordable pieces of personalised art.

• A gift you will treasure forever • Casting and Imprint Kits available to purchase online

Regular in-store casting service at Kiddicare, Hampton on Saturday and Sunday’s.

Call 01733 296990 to book an appointment

Cast In Time Ltd, Unit 3, The Courtyard Business Centre, 27 Norfolk Street, Peterborough, PE1 2NP Tel: 01733 296990 www.castintime.co.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

UPFRONT

KITCHENS BY BLUEBERRY Buying a kitchen from a high street name and arranging to have it installed sounds easy enough, but for many busy households, it’s a hassle to track down fitters, tilers, plasterers, plumbers and electricians. Local company Kitchens by Blueberry can take the strain for you, with its in-house team of experts. From the planning and initial design, to the installation and finishing touches, everything is taken care of for you. “The business has grown from Blueberry Property Services, which has been established for nine years and specialises in extensions and refurbishments,” says director Susan Ball. “The kitchen business seemed like a natural progression and by making the decision to manufacture our own kitchen range and using our existing skills and experience, we feel we can deliver a unique all-in-one service.”

One of the advantages of working with a

smaller company like Blueberry is that they can offer a bespoke service. “We can see a project through from the drawing and planning stage to completion, and we work as a team, we’re not reliant on other tradesmen,” says Susan.

“Customer service is key to everything we do and how go about running our business, from the initial enquiry through to delivering your completed kitchen project: your business is important to us,” says Susan. Kitchens by Blueberry offers many styles, from traditional country, to high gloss finishes, or sleek combinations such as glossy walnut and black.

Colour matching is also available.

• To view the complete range, visit the website www.kitchensbyblueberry.co.uk and for more information or to arrange for a free estimate, call 0800 0851252.

WIN! A PLACE AT A ROWANTREE CRAFT WORKSHOP Margaret Rowan’s craft studio offers workshops and classes in an inspiring and friendly atmosphere. She and her team of talented teachers can pass on skills such as sewing, crochet, knitting and creating soft furnishings in a pretty studio in the village of Nassington. Margaret runs monthly craft workshops on a Saturday morning. Sessions are two and a half hours long, just enough time to make something really special to take home with you. We have three places at a Saturday workshop, worth £25 each, to give away absolutely free. Choose from lavender sachets on Saturday 23rd September, making an apron on Saturday 20th October or Christmas decorations on Saturday 24th November.

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN, VISIT WWW. BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK AND ANSWER THIS QUESTION: What evening does the weekly Rowantree Knitting group take place?

• Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday Clue: visit Margaret’s website, www.rowantreeworkshops.co.uk to find the answer Closing date July 30th • Rowantree Craft Studio, 44 Station Rd, Nassington PE8 6QB Tel: 01780 784442

CAPTURE THE MOMENT Children grow so fast that the adorable baby stage seems to pass in a flash. But Rita Slingsby of Peterborough company Cast In Time can help to preserve the memories with perfect sculptures of tiny hands and feet. Rita started her business as a cottage industry some 12 years ago, but she has seen the popularity of her service grow. Rita offers home casting kits, which start at £16, to free standing solid bronze sculptures which are sent to a foundry in Birmingham to be made, and these start at £250 and take eight weeks to complete. She also offers framed images, cast in stone, which are created in house. “The process of taking a mould is very straightforward, and causes no discomfort to the little one,” explains Rita.

“The hand or foot is placed into a jelly-like substance, containing no harmful ingredients, and this sets within a minute. The baby is not restricted in any way.” Rita offers regular in-store casting sessions at Kiddicare in Hampton on Saturdays and Sundays, and her kits are available to purchase from her website www.castintime.co.uk.

• To find out more, contact: Cast In Time Ltd, Unit 3, The Courtyard, Norfolk Street, Peterborough PE1 2NP Tel: 01733 296990 DON’T MISS: St Kyneburgha Festival Weekend, Castor on July 6th, 7th and 8th. A Friday night party with live music by Daddy Long Legs and a two course meal is followed by an extended Fete and Feast on the Saturday. Advance tickets to the music night cost £10.

Call 01733 380900. The St Kyneburgha Patronal Service takes place at 10.15 on Sunday, with a parade of decorated banners.

WOOFSTOCK FESTIVAL IN YARWELL The fourth annual Woofstock festival is taking place at The Angel Inn, Yarwell, on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th July. Over the two days, local musicians and bands will be playing live in the pub’s beer garden, accompanied by a real ale and cider festival and barbeque.

Bands include Let there B/DC, Filthy Lucre, Kickback, Lexi Green, Gone to the Dogs and The Mangelics. Proceeds go to the Retired Greyhound Trust.

• For more info, call Nick Lander on 01780 782582 or visit www.woofstock.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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LOCAL NEWS

UPFRONT

NENE VALLEY LIVING RECOMMENDS

THE PHEASANT AT KEYSTON M

y spirits rose as soon as I set eyes on the menu at this pretty village pub. It was an unseasonably cold and damp summer’s day, the computer was on the blink, the car was in the garage and I needed cheering up.

Contemplating dishes such as char-grilled asparagus with wild garlic, lemon and chive butter sauce, grilled sardines with salsa verde, potato and onion salad, jersey royals, and elderflower pannacotta with blueberry compôte was an instant pick-me-up. My colleague Bridget and I sipped drinks in the beamed bar while we made our choices. The Pheasant has a clubby interior, with sporting prints on the walls, a padded leather bar and a mix of masculine coloured carpet and flagstones on the floor. Huge jars of nuts and home made crisps stand on the bar. Under new ownership since January, The Pheasant now belongs to the Hoskins family, who also run the acclaimed Old Bridge at Huntingdon.

We ate in the Old Bar, but if the day had been sunnier, we could have gone into the lighter Garden Room or, indeed, the pretty garden itself. There is also the Long Room, which seats 16, for large parties. For my starter, I chose asparagus soup with crème fraiche and lemon oil (£5.95). Bridget had the home cured bresaola with beetroot, fennel and horseradish (£7.95). Both were absolutely superb. My soup was velvety and savoury and needed just a

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single grind of salt and pepper to make the excellent: sweet strawberries, nuggets of home seasoning perfect. Bridget’s salad looked like a made meringue and lashings of thick cream. work of art, and she raved about the delicate Chef Patron Simon Cadge popped out to see flavours, with paper thin slices of bresaola and us, and explained that “seasonal food is key.” slivers of radish, and a punchy horseradish The menu changes regularly, and he is keen to cream. The dishes came with complementary offer “something for everyone. We do a casual home made bread and unsalted butter. Service offering, as well as a foodie menu.” We certainly was attentive but not intrusive. liked the flexibility of the food: sandwiches are For our mains, Bridget chose fish and chips on offer, or if you want to order two starters, (£13.95): in this case, fillet of Pollock with that is fine, too. chunky chips, smashed broad beans and home We came out of the pub replete and very made tartare sauce. Her fish was meaty and impressed. My spirits were fully restored, it’s shiny-fresh, and she said she could have eaten amazing what a really good lunch can do! a plateful of the beans on their own, they were Fiona Cumberpatch so delicious. I picked Potted Portland crab with • The Pheasant, Keyston, Huntingdon, pickled cucumber and fennel salad (£8.95), and Cambs PE28 ORE. Tel: 01832 710241. a side of Jersey Royals with butter and parsley. www.thepheasant-keyston.co.uk The crab came in a little glass jar and was chunky, rich and savoury. I particularly enjoyed • SPECIAL OFFER: The Pheasant at the pickled cucumber, thinly pared with a sweet, Keyston is offering Nene Valley Living tangy taste that cut through the readers 25 per cent off their entire food richness of the crab. bill, for tables booked for lunch or dinner As we were driving, we were during the month of July. Quote the NVL unable to take advantage of offer when you make your booking.

The Pheasant’s extensive and The deal excludes Saturday evenings and noteworthy wine list. Proprieter Sunday lunch.

John Hoskins is a Master of Wine, and sister establishment, The Manager Gerda and Chef Old Bridge at Huntingdon, has Patron Simon Cadge twice won the AA award for best wine list in the UK. There is no formal sommelier at The Pheasant, but the team, headed by Chef Patron Simon Cadge and his partner Gerda, are very well informed, and customers are encouraged to ask if they need any advice.

We couldn’t leave without pudding.

I rounded off my meal with another summer classic: Eton Mess, while Bridget chose apricot sorbet. My dessert was

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L A V I T S E F C I CH FASHION

To mark O Internat undle ional Fes tival which ru n to 22nd s from 13th J Banwell uly, Lucy asked six local fac e festival f s about their ashion s tyle…

T

HINK summer festivals and what comes to mind?

Probably music, the great outdoors and some pretty outlandish outfits! This year’s Oundle International Festival is just around the corner and promises a whole host of live music and arts events covering all musical tastes from classical to rock. The jewel in the crown of the outdoor events is the Picnic in the Park on 14th July which this year features legendary ABBA act Björn Again. Come rain or shine, thousands will gather on Oundle’s Heron Rogers Field to picnic, party and dance the night away to some brilliant live music. But what will they be wearing?

Josh Scarbrow, guitarist with local band Heavy Hearts: How would you describe your style?

Slightly left-field with a mix of vintage and modern clothing.

Talk us through your favourite festival outfit…

I’m wearing a crazy, patterned shirt which I got from a vintage shop in London. I think it’s amazing even though it does resemble a curtain! Shorts are essential in hot weather, and I’m wearing Nike Air Max 90s because they are comfy as well as nice to look at.

What’s the most you’ve ever spent on an item of clothing? £135 on some tortoiseshell Ray-Ban sunglasses.

Who’s your ideal festival companion?

I reckon David Attenborough would be great because we could talk about nature.

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Sarah Healy, Oundle International Festival Assistant: Describe your style Comfortable, eclectic and fun.

Talk us through your festival outfit…

The tee shirt is from River Island - it’s sparkly and eye catching. The shorts are from H&M. And my bright pink wellies have seen many festivals, plenty of mud and can be easily found under a pile of clothes in my tent!

What’s the most you’ve spent on one item of clothing? £150 on a cream, Fifties-style prom dress from Joules Boutique which I wore for my graduation.

Who’s your ideal festival companion?

My mum, Georgie Healy. She used to go to Woodstock so she’s eager to show me how to be a ‘proper’ festival-goer! * For more information and tickets for Oundle International Festival events visit www.oundlefestival.org.uk, call 01832 274734 or visit Oundle Box Office at 4 New Street, Oundle.

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Nik Prior works at Olive Grove Nurseries, near Polebrook: Describe your style I’m a bit of a girly girl and I love pretty things. You won’t often see me looking scruffy!

Talk us through your favourite festival outfit…

I bought this dress from Joules. I love bright colours but was never brave enough until now to wear something like this. I couldn’t resist these wellies when I saw them. I love navy and red and they co-ordinate with my red mac!

What’s the most you’ve ever spent on one item of clothing? £120 on a grey dress from Phase Eight which I wore to my mum’s wedding. It was worth every penny because I felt so good in it.

Who’s your ideal festival companion?

Fearne Cotton. I’d love to interview a few of my favourite artists with her!

Ian Fišermanis, manager of Dexters, Oundle: How would you sum up your style?

Unusual shoes and accessories combined with odd twists on classic items.

Talk us through your favourite festival outfit…

The hat is customised vintage H&M – perfect for men of a certain age when the hair is gone! I adore slogan T-shirts and this one from French Connection is comedic without being tragic. The trainers are Pastry from TK Maxx and they sum me up - colourful, unafraid, Eighties-inspired, with a dash of flamboyance!

What’s the most you’ve spent on one item of clothing?

I once bought a pair of grey, pinstripe trousers from a new designer at The Clothes Show. I blew a lot on them and felt guilty for months. But I wore them to get married in and I still love them.

Your ideal festival companion?

Jennifer Saunders. She’d make me cry with laughter.

Lynda Purser, Chair of Oundle Music Trust:

Gillian Dolby, illustrator: Describe your style Colourful, quirky and a bit unusual.

Describe your festival outfit…

I bought the red gypsy skirt from H&M many years ago. The cardigan is from a charity shop and the felt brooch came from Camden Market. I’m also wearing ear-rings made from my birthstone, turquoise.

What’s the most you’ve spent on an item of clothing? £80 on a pair of black, lace-up boots Who’s your ideal festival companion?

I would take David Walliams. He is hilarious and I think he would dance, which is a necessity!

Describe your style My clothes have to flatter me and make me feel sassy! I look for a good fit and tend towards navy and black.

Tell us about your favourite festival outfit…

I’m wearing cream Jaeger jeans and high cream wedges to give my legs as much length as possible! My top is from Desigual on Regent Street, London. It’s fun and I feel happy in it. I am also wearing a cream shrug from Crackers in Oundle.

What’s the most you’ve ever spent on one item of clothing? £1200 on an outfit and hat for my daughter’s wedding last year. It was from Anne Furbank.

Who’s your ideal festival companion?

My partner, Paul. He’s fun to be with and enjoys chatting whilst listening to music.

NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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A Tradition Restored

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FOOD & DRINK

Food glorious food Oundle’s third food festival takes place on July 21st, and it’s bigger and better than ever. Fiona Cumberpatch reports

“I

f people are doing something from the heart, you can really tell,” says Alison Newcomb, founder and organiser of the Oundle Food Festival. It’s with this in mind that Alison has selected her line up for this year’s event, which features Times food writer Joanna Weinberg demonstrating her favourite dishes in the town’s Queen Victoria Hall, Eden Project gardener Steven Burrell running free family grow-your-own sessions and 45 food producers and makers who will line the town’s market place. Performances from the Fringe Festival will help to create a carnival atmosphere. For a full programme of events, you can click on www. oundlefoodfestival.co.uk, but here are a few of the highlights which are happening before, during or after the main event:

Monday 16th July 7pm-9pm Learn to make bouillabaisse at The Kings Arms, Polebrook. A relaxed, fun class, where you get

to sample the dish at the end. Tickets cost £10, including a glass of Muscadet. Book through The Kings Arms on 01832 272363

Saturday 21st July Queen Victoria Hall, Oundle. 10.30-12.30 Food writer Joanna Weinberg demonstrates from her new book, Cooking for Real Life.

Joanna says: “I don’t want everyone to save their ‘good’ cooking for a once a month spectacular that is weeks in the planning, and then eat pizza and ready meals for the rest of the time. I want everyone to eat well, all the time, with little effort and no stress, so that the kitchen table becomes a place to willingly gather round.” Few of the recipes need more than 15-20 minutes.

Tickets, £12.50 per person, under 12s free, from The Oundle Bookshop, Tel: 01832 273523 or Oundle Box Office, 4 New St, Oundle. www.oundlefestival.org.uk

Joanna Weinberg

Grow your own The Eden Project will run 30 minute practical sessions between 10-4pm on July 21st. Learn how to grow salads, radishes, baby beets and sprouting seeds and take away a container of compost sown with a seed of your choice. Ideal for families.

The big debate Oundle Food Festival, in conjunction with Oundle Transition Town, hosts a food debate called Feeding the next Generation chaired by R4 broadcaster Sue MacGregor. Speakers will address issues such as ‘what does labelling tell us about additives?’ and ‘how do we make sense of the confusing issues around fishing?” Tickets are £5 per person (from Oundle Box office, details above) and questions should be submitted in advance.

Visit the street market. Here’s a selection of stallholders: Butterflies Cupcake House, Peterborough Mother and daughter team Millie and Laura Calvin will be selling a range of cupcakes, cakes and sweet treats. The small business, which has showroom, office and kitchen in Fengate, Peterborough, is going from strength to strength. “We make cupcakes and wedding cakes to order, but our baking classes are proving really popular. My mum teaches Sugarcraft, teen cupcake classes and baking lessons. The craze for homemade cakes shows no sign of dying down, and mum has so much expertise to pass on,” says Laura. You can sample Millie’s sensational baking skills on the day.

Butterflies Cupcake House, 9/10 Fengate Business Centre, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5BQ Tel: 07825347441 or email butterfliescupcakehouse@gmail.com

Love Food, Hate Waste Did you know that the average family throws away a quarter of the food they buy? The Love Food, Hate Waste campaign is designed to help people cut down on the amount that hits the bin. Recycle for Northamtonshire will be giving away Tool Kits to help reduce waste, including rice measures and spaghetti gauges for precise portion sizing. Expect recipe tips and money saving ideas, too.

Handmade Treats Specialising in gift packs including puddings, biscuits, preserves, marinades, gourmet oils, marinades and aromatic rubs. www.handmade-treats.co.uk

Ross and Ross Foods, Chipping Norton

street markets and festivals, perfect for a meal on the go.

Ross and Ross Foods, 10 Worcester Rd Trading Estate, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 5XW Tel: 01608 645503

Nene Valley Brewery Shortly to move into new premises at the Oundle Wharf on Station Road, this new micro brewery, firmly committed to great quality beer, is going places. Currently producing two beers, they hope to be producing around five by the end of the year, when they are settled into their new home. www.nenevalleybrewery.com

Muddy Roots Urban Coffee Bar Coffee lovers alert. Watch out for a small yellow van serving piping hot, carefully sourced and roasted fresh coffee.

Potting meat is a traditional way of preserving food. Before refrigeration, cooked meats and fish were packed into pots and sealed under a layer of clarified butter or goose fat. This technique is now enjoying a revival, thanks partly to business partners Ross Bearman and Ross Whitmill who produce a range of potted produce at their Cotswold hq. They also serve nine hour slow cooked lamb and salsa verde at

 NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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News from Oundle Mill

Carole Nicholson

(BSc Nutritional Medicine)

AN HISTORIC MILL WITH A STUNNING WATERSIDE SETTING, CHIC INTERIORS AND FABULOUS FOOD.

A taste of summer Try Oundle Mill’s own delicious homemade ice creams and sorbets. We have 15 different flavours to choose from including traditionals such as: raspberry, chocolate and orange or for those who want to try something more adventurous we can offer brown bread and rum, salted pistachio or deluxe coffee.

Also available to take away.

Nutritional Therapy...

Diet and Lifestyle really are powerful tools to help you achieve and maintain optimum health Every biochemical process in your body relies on the intake of a particular balance of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids as vital building blocks to health. rough a carefully planned programme of changes to diet and lifestyle tailored to your individual needs Nutritional erapy can optimise your health.

4 Supporting good digestion 4 Improving blood sugar levels 4 Improving mood, memory and cognitive function 4 Enhancing hormonal health and fertility naturally 4 Supporting and maintaining effective weight loss 4 Improving joint and bone health 4 Building energy and helping to alleviate fatigue 4 Increasing your ability to cope with a stressful lifestyle 4 Enhancing the immune system 4 Supporting good sleep patterns.

4 Promoting healthy skin 4 A healthy diet to support heart health Telephone on 01832 273743 for an informal chat to see if Nutritional erapy can help you or e-mail carole@cn-nutrition.co.uk

Afternoon teas Join us for a perfect afternoon with a speciality tea of your choice and enjoy a selection of cakes, scones and homemade sandwiches.

AVAILABLE BETWEEN 3PM AND 5PM, BOOKING IS REQUIRED.

The Kings Head, Apethorpe Come and celebrate with us!

1stst Birthday Bash Come and celebrate with us!

1SundayBirthday Bash 26th August (4pm—late)

DINE FOR 1/2 PRICE ON THURSDAYS AT OUNDLE MILL IN JULY AND AUGUST On Thursdays from July the 5th through to the end of August, for lunch or dinner, you can experience Oundle Mill’s fabulous Mill menu for half price.

OUNDLE MILL. A PERFECT PLACE TO EAT, MEET OR SIMPLY RETREAT

Sunday 26th August ro a st H og d n a r ee B , ic us M Li ve 4pm – late T IC K ETS ON LY £7.

50 incc. po rk ro ll an d pi Live Musi nt of be er g nin eve throughout the

Children aged 8 and under go free.

CALL US FOR MORE INFO OR TO RESERVE YOUR TICKETS!

Exciting Range of Real Ales

AUSTRALIAN

SATURDAY 7TH DAY JULY Hog Roast

BBQ, beer and sun shine (we hope!) Co me and join us from 1p m in the courtyard for fun in the sun. Wide sel ect foods to taste. Child ion of exotic Australian ren and dogs welco me!

Children’s Activities

Oundle Mill, Barnwell Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 5PB Tel: (01832) 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk

The Kings Head,Tickets Apethorpe, Early Bird £7.00 Peterborough, PE8 5DG (£7.50 after July 1st) Tel: 01780 470627

Tickets Include. Entry, Pint of Beer, Hog Roast, enquiries@kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk Children’s Activities, Stalls, Free Car Parking and more…

NOW OPEN ALL DAY ON SUNDAYS, SERVING FOOD TIL 2.30PM

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FOOD & DRINK 

WIN!

Dinner for two at Hambleton Hall

PHOTOS: LESLEY ANNE CHURCHILL

PHOTOS: ELLI DEAN

The Stamford Cheese Cellar Karen and George Brammer’s Stamford shop is full of wonderful artisan cheeses (see our cover), and they’ll be bringing a good selection to the Festival. Karen has an encyclopaedic knowledge of cheese, and she gives talks and tastings at community groups, WIs and Rotary Clubs. She also specialises in artisan cheese wedding cakes. Her top tip for a simple appetiser is this: take some fresh dates (she sells them in the shop). Make a slit and remove the stone. Get a soft cheese, such as deliciously creamy Vignotte, and fill the centre of the date with it. Close back up and squeeze gently. Serve.

The Stamford Cheese Cellar, 17 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DG Tel: 01780 489269 or email stamfordcheesecellar@hotmail.co.uk

Aaron Patterson, head chef and co-owner of Hambleton Hall, Rutland, has always been passionate about sourcing food locally. He chooses game from the local estates, veal from Whissendine, trout from Rutland Water and beef from Northfield Farm, near Oakham. It’s no surprise, then, that the restaurant has held a Michelin star since 1982 and was listed in the top 60 restaurants in the Good Food Guide last year. It is also one of Britain’s best country hotels.

Now, to join with Oundle Food Festival in celebrating the best local food, you can win a meal for two at Hambleton Hall. Choose either a three course A La Carte meal or the sensational Tasting Menu. The prize includes coffee, water, service and the sommelier’s selection of wine.

Hambleton Hall Tel: 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com

To enter, visit our website, www.bestlocalliving.co.uk and answer this question:

PHOTO: LESLEY ANNE CHURCHILL

In which county is Hambleton Hall? a) Huntingdonshire b) Lincolnshire c) Rutland Closing date for entries is July 30th and the prize must be taken by September 1st 2012.

The Small Bread Company If you haven’t yet encountered Filam Smallridge and her artisan bread at local fairs, fetes and festivals, or at regular outlets Normans, Oundle or Nassington Stores, you’ve missed out. Filam, who is American, craved good bread so much when she relocated to the UK that she decided to start baking it herself. The result? Dreamy wholemeal, four grain and white breads, focaccia, croissants and pastries, all baked in a local unit at Barnwell. Only pure ingredients and no preservatives are used, and the taste is…well, try it for yourselves.

The Small Bread Company Tel: 01832 205540 NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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FOOD & DRINK

FOOD

NENE VALLEY LIVING RECOMMENDS OUNDLE MILL

news All the latest on local food and drink

A SUMMER DISH

Warm radish, halloumi, potato and cherry tomato salad with mustard and dill dressing Try this recipe, bursting with vitamins, iron and potassium: 200g new potatoes, sliced 150g mixed radishes, halved 100g cherry tomatoes, halved 1tbspn olive oil 200g halloumi, sliced For the dressing 4 tbpsn extra virgin olive oil 1tbspn red wine vinegar 1tbspn Dijon mustard Small bunch dill, chopped Salt and pepper Place the new potatoes in a medium pan, cover with cold water and lightly salt. Bring to the boil, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until soft. Drain and set aside.

In a medium bowl, mix the olive oil and vinegar, then add the Dijon mustard and dill.

Add the new potatoes, radishes and cherry tomatoes to the dressing, mix and season well.

Heat the olive oil in a medium sized non-stick frying pan and cook the halloumi on both sides until golden.

Add the cheese to the salad and mix gently before serving.

Visit www.loveradish.co.uk for more recipe ideas.

I

t is many years since I had been in the Mill’s restaurant and it has undergone an extreme makeover. Now billing itself as a boutique hotel with rustic chic, Oundle Mill can trace its roots back to the 17th century and used to be known as Barnwell Mill.

We had come to sample the Mill’s newly unveiled spring menu, which features an array of dishes with the emphasis on utilising a wide range of local produce.

Asparagus is a favourite of mine so I couldn’t resist the locally sourced spears served with an almond and asparagus mousse and a crispy egg (£6.50). Meanwhile, Helen opted for potted salmon with leeks, Jersey Royals, horseradish and a scotch salmon egg (£7.95). Both starters were extremely flavoursome, and very fresh. Lightly toasted bread was served with balsamic and rape seed oil and the palate cleanser of pink grapefruit and champagne granite prior to our main course was simple and refreshing.

My main course of spring lamb, from nearby Lutton, was served on a bed of crushed potatoes, pea purée, pea shoots and mint jelly (£19.95). Helen opted for slow-cooked belly pork with celeriac, apple with black pudding, creamed potatoes and crackling (£14.50). Both were light and aromatic and beautifully presented.

For dessert I opted for a warm chocolate fondant with white chocolate and basil and raspberry sorbet (£6.50). My dessert with its warm and cold texture on the tongue was a delight and Helen declared her banana cheesecake, toffee sauce and Pedro Ximenez raisins (£5.50) delicious and “tasting of Christmas cake in a glass.”

Chef Gavin has a number of top kitchens on his CV including London’s Chez Nico (three Michelin stars) and L’Escargot and has created a varied menu. It is not overly extensive - thus ensuring freshness and attention to detail. The brevity of the menu contrasts with the extensive wine list - wine being a passion of Mill manager Paul and we chose a very agreeable Chilean sauvignon blanc (£24.95).

The Mill is hosting summer barbeques by the River Nene every Saturday in July (excluding July 28) and August between noon and 6pm. So here’s hoping the sun shines.

Ashley Martin

EAT ALFRESCO

Five great places to eat and drink outside this July: • The Talbot Hotel Eatery & Coffee House, New St, Oundle PE8 4EA Discover the newly refurbished hotel in the centre of town, with replanted gardens and plenty of tables outside for coffee, tea, cakes and lunch.

• Jean’s Tea Room at Stuy Porter Antiques, 15 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PG Pretty courtyard area, for excellent coffee, cakes and sandwiches at reasonable prices • Dexters of Oundle, just behind the market place, Oundle Enjoy cakes, freshly ground coffee, and fine loose leaf teas in the attractive courtyard with plenty of comfortable seating.

• Exeter Arms, Easton on the Hill, 21 Stamford Rd, Easton- on- the- Hill, PE9 3NS A stunning conservatory area and huge courtyard out back, in which to enjoy the fine weather.

• Queens Head Inn, Station Rd, Nassington, PE8 6QB Unbeatable setting by the River Nene, perfect for a jug of Pimm’s on a hot summer’s day.

8 NENE 20 NENE VALLEY VALLEY LIVING LIVING JULY July 2012 2008

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Visit our showroom in Oundle

THE LARGEST KITCHEN AND BATHROOM STUDIO IN THE AREA Many fully working kitchens in contemporary German and traditional styles. Stunning bathrooms to suit all tastes & lifestyles. Offering full design and project management.

or call us to arrange a free appointment at your home on:

01832 270300

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

call us now on 01832 270300 FREE PLANNING • FULL INSTALLATION • WORKTOPS • FLOORING • TILING Email: info@kuchenkraft.co.uk Kuchen Kraft, Waterland House, 81 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EJ

THE KING’S ARMS POLEBROOK 01832 272363 www.thekingsarms-polebrook.co.uk info@thekingsarms-polebrook.co.uk

PUB • RESTAURANT • TAPAS

Manzanilla Olives and Ali Oli (V) Catalan Tomato Bread (V) Montaditos (6 Tapas Canapés in 3 varieties)

£3.00 £2.50 £5.00

Tapas Plates

Mixed Vegetarian Tapas Plate (V) £10.00 Chorizo Rosario with Roasted Garlic and Giant Butter Beans and whole Morcilla (Spanish Black Pudding) £8.00 3 Fresh Scallops with Morcilla and a Trio of Purées (N) £6.50 Chorizo Rosario with Roasted Garlic and Giant Butter Beans £6.00 Chicken, Chorizo and Olive Pinchos with Chilli £6.00 3 King Prawns ‘Al Pil Pil’, Smoked Paprika, with Garlic and Orange £5.50 Baked Aubergine and Tomato with Manchego Cheese (V) £5.00 Baked Mushroom Caps with Picon Blue Cheese (V) £5.00 Pork Meatballs, Tomato and Chorizo Sauce finished with Peas £5.00 3 Manchego Cheese and Mushroom Croquettes with Olives (V) £5.00 ‘Cecina De Leon’ Salted and Smoked Beef with Marcona Almonds (N) £5.00 Serrano Ham, Manchego and Pickled Figs £5.00 Fried Calamari with Picon Salsa £5.00 Grilled Goats Cheese with Chicory and Walnut Salad and Fig Dressing (N) (V) £5.00 Brava Potatoes with Two Sauces (V) £3.00 Steak Cut Chips with Alioli (V) £3.00 Sautéed Green Beans with Sherry Vinegar and Caramelised Onion (V) £3.00 House Salad with Mixed Dressings (V) £3.00

Cheese Plate

Valdeòn Picos De Europe Blue Cheese and Manchego with Membrillio and Pickled Figs

Paella (This dish takes 1 hour to prepare and serve unless pre-booked) Traditional mixed paella for 4 Traditional mixed paella for 6 Traditional mixed paella for 8

}

Chicken, Chorizo, Prawns, Mussels and Calamari

£5.50

£44.00 £65.00 £80.00

Mains Plates

8 oz English Rib-Eye Steak, grilled and served on a charred oak plank with Pink Peppercorn Beurre Blanc Sauce and Matchstick Chips Whole Seabream ’A La Plancha’ with Seasalt, Preserved Lemon, Giant Prawn, Chorizo, Pistou Dip and House Salad Pork Tenderloin Escalope with Camembert and Serrano Ham, Roasted Garlic, Salsa Verde, Green Beans and Matchstick Chips Panfried Chicken Supreme with Sautéed Potatoes and Chicory, Green Beans and Anchovy Nicoise Dressing Best End Lamb Cutlets with a Navarin of Vegetables and Potato in a Mint and Spinach Sauce Traditional Bouillabaisse with Seabream Fillet and Shell Fish in a Fish Broth with Croutons and Garlic Roule Mushroom, Courgette and Cream Cheese Kiev with Green Beans and New Potatoes

£14.50 £16.50 £13.50 £13.50 £14.50 £13.00 £9.50

Seafood Plancha for 2 to share

Seafood Plancha Plate complete with whole Seabream, Chorizo Sausage, 4 Crevettes, 4 Green Lip Mussels with various Sauces, Bravas Potatoes and Green Beans. £30.00

Surf & Turf Plancha for 2 to share

Two 8oz Rib-Eye Steaks, Crevettes, Green Lip Mussels, Garlic Butter and Spinach Sauce, Steak-cut Chips and House Salad.

Desserts

Rich Chocolate Pudding with Chocolate Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream Rosewater Meringue,Poached Rhubarb and Summer Berries with Mascarpone and Créme Anglaise Basque Sour Cherry and Almond Tart with Almond Cream (N) Mango and Passion Fruit Sorbet, Apricot and Date Halva, Raspberry Compote Milk Ice Cream with Raisins in Pedro Ximenez Sherry, crumbled Turron and Tortas Biscuits Spanish Sweetie Plate (N) Glass of Chilled Dios Baco 1970 Pedro Ximenez Sherry

£38.00

£4.75 £4.75 £4.75 £4.75 £4.75 £3.00 £3.20

(N) = Contains Nuts (V) = Vegetarian

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Activities

Telling tales Music and stories from around the world meld and mingle at the Oundle International Festival this month. Sue Dobson reviews a colourful programme

Aurora Orchestra

Trio Fibonacci

Annapurna Indian Dance

Gillian Weir Chloe StowersVeitch Darus Brubeck Quartet

S

tories told in, through and with music lie at the heart of the 2012 Oundle International Festival. From a classical core through jazz, folk, Indian dance and British satire, the ten-day festival from 13th-22nd July features famous musicians and young stars in the making. It’s an eclectic mix of concerts and music-related events to engage all ages, from printmaking to visits to historic houses.

Events by The Leicester Print Workshop, in residence at the Yarrow Gallery, include a dropin printmaking workshop, where families can create their own ‘passport’ to a range of handson music workshops in unexpected places around town, and an exhibition talk and visit to John Clare’s Cottage at Helpston that reveal the peasant poet’s passion for collecting folk music.

“Historic houses have so many stories to tell,” says Festival Director Susan Lansdale. “Our day at Boughton House will be a marvellous opportunity to have a behind- the- scenes tour of ‘the English Versailles’, view its music manuscript collections and hear fine music and poetry performed on viola and lute.

“With the renowned Oundle for Organists summer school running concurrently, the Festival benefits greatly from the outstanding organ talent in Oundle at this time,” Susan continues. “We’re thrilled that the brilliant and legendary Dame Gillian Weir will be giving a concert on the Frobenius organ in Oundle School Chapel, especially as 2012 marks her

22

retirement from full-time performing.”

In 1705, J S Bach walked 250 miles to hear Buxtehude play the organ. The Festival’s popular Bach Walk crosses the fields from Elton to Nassington for a recital by cellist Gemma Rosefield, returning for supper at The Black Horse and a cello and organ concert at Elton’s All Saints Church.

Diverse delights The Darius Brubeck Quartet gets the festival off to a swinging start. Eldest son of jazz legend Dave Brubeck, pianist-composer Darius plays stylish piano and the Quartet enthrals audiences with a mix of South African-inspired jazz, Dave Brubeck classics and original compositions. Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, winners of the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Duo, play Festival Folk and An Evening with Kit Hesketh-Harvey and James McConnel promises musical satire at its best. Loyal fans will be happy that Kit & The Widow favourites are on the bill.

On the classical scene, the Oundle Festival Chorus present a portrait of composer Franz Schubert and the renowned Canadian ensemble Trio Fibonacci make a journey of discovery through two centuries of music for the piano trio. Two lunchtime concerts by young musicians showcase the extraordinary talents of violinist Chloe Stowers-Veitch, the 2011 Oundle Young Musician of the Year, and pianist

Clarence Lam, a former pupil at Oundle School.

As Champions at the World Choir Olympics in Bremen and again at the World Choir Games in China, the Cantamus Girls’ Choir have proved themselves among the finest youth choirs in the world. Their programme of ‘stories in music’ spans Mozart, Schumann, Purcell and the contemporary Finnish composer Rautavaara.

Fizzing with joy and enthusiasm, the multiaward winning Aurora Orchestra is joined by Robert Quinney, Sub-Organist at Westminster Cathedral (he played for the royal wedding last year) and Director of Oundle for Organists, in a programme of music by Poulenc, Bach, Mozart and Dvorak.

Alongside presenting their colourful Tales from Mystic India at the Festival, Annapurna Indian Dance will be visiting local schools and running interactive workshops for ages seven to 11 in the Festival Marquee. This is also the setting for family fun when the Illyria theatre company performs The Twits by Roald Dahl and for Paprika, the lively Eastern European group who’ll ensure the Festival ends in a party atmosphere.

• The Oundle International Festival runs from 13th-22nd July. Tickets are available at the Oundle Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle PE8 4ED, Tel: 01832 274734, and online at www. oundlefestival.org.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING JUly 2012

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ACTIVITIES

Rockingham Folk Band

FREE FOLK

Oundle’s established International Festival now has an offshoot. The Folk Fringe, in its second year, showcases some lively local talent, says Yasmin Bradley

N

ow in its second year, Oundle’s Folk Fringe Festival started – like so many of the best ideas - over a good meal with friends, and the consensus that there really ought to be a showcase for local talent at the well known annual Oundle International Festival. With organiser Trisha Ryan’s blessing, local musician Jane Sanders and Blue Grass supremo, Ray Duffy, enrolled a hard core of folkie friends into performances at pubs, hotels, coffee bars and shops all over the town. Local lad Mark Rogers took little persuasion to bring his folk rock band, The Heathen Kings down from Leeds to headline in the Festival Marquee … and the Folk Fringe was born!

The following evening, Kathryn Tickell graced the same stage with her Northumbrian Pipes, for happily, Festival Folk also seems to have become an established part of the main festival too; internationally- renowned duo, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan - also BBC Radio Folk Award winners – appear this year. The event has certainly travelled a long way from its initial roots as an organ festival!

With a little more time in hand for 2012, the call had gone out early for Fringe participants as far afield as Bourne, Rutland and Peterborough.

The organisers were not disappointed with the response. “There are double the number of events this year,” enthuses Jane, “and some new venues, including the Nene Valley Brewery,” not forgetting the glorious setting of the newly refurbished Talbot Hotel Eatery & Coffee House, with its links to Mary Queen of Scots, in which to sip a pint and savour great music.

Ask Jane Sanders for her personal highlights and she just can’t choose:

“it’s hard to know who to pick out,” she muses.

This year the programme is bigger and more eclectic to include dance, poetry, theatre groups, choirs and rock music.

ALL WELCOME Join in or just listen at evenings devoted solely to English, Irish and Bluegrass song and tunes. A musical surprise is also in store along with fast and furious Appalachian dancing on Saturday 21 July. Jane is playing with Five String Thing at the ceilidh that evening, and the Fringe culminates in a Folk Festival on Sunday 22 July. Jane smiles her enigmatic smile and finally names a few names to look out for: Tourdian, famous for its hurdygurdy and French repertoire; Vox Mondiale and the Rockingham Folk Band. Listen out too for harpist Nick Penney, Frumenty and Peterborough performance poet, Keely Mills. But it is hard to pick out individual performers … so Jane’s advice?

Just enjoy as much free music as you can!

OUNDLE FRINGE FESTIVAL - Sunday 15 – Sunday 22 July 2012 at pubs, hotels, coffee bars, shops all over Oundle. Full programme on www.oundlefringe.co.uk. Tickets for Ceilidh, Victoria Hall, Oundle, PE8 4EJ and Folk Festival, £5. Other events: free.

Wednesday 18 July Festival Folk: Nancy Kerr & James Fagan Festival Marquee, Milton Road, Oundle, PE8 4AD. Tickets: £17 front / £15 rear. 4 New Street Oundle, PE8 4ED. 01832 274919 NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

The eyes have it

Sue Rushen tried out Lash Perfect eyelash extensions at The Beauty Room in Oundle: “When I was asked to try out these semi permanent lash extensions, I jumped at the chance, as it was not something I have experience of. So off I went to The Beauty Room where Kirsty, who runs the salon, fitted the lashes for me. You can choose from a variety of looks: I opted for natural with a slight curl. The process involved attaching a single strand extension to a single eyelash, leaving a longer, thicker and fuller look. It took about 45 minutes, but can extend to two hours, depending on your own lashes and the look you require. The procedure is completely painless, but your eyes need to be closed while your lashes are being fitted.

Kirsty explained that my eyes might sting slightly when I first opened them, but the feeling wore off quickly. I was delighted to hear that swimming won’t affect the lashes and that they are suitable for contact lens wearers.

Perfect for a holiday.

When I saw the result, I was impressed. They looked fantastic! Natural, but longer and fuller, just the look I wanted. I would definitely recommend the treatment and the salon, as the staff made me feel both welcome and relaxed.

The Beauty Room, 14 West St, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 273989 www. thebeautyroomx.co.uk

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The latest from local health and beauty businesses. By Bridget Steele

health & beauty notes

Could Hypno-Slimming work for you?

A Peterborough Clinic is gaining good results with Hypno-Slimming, a way of achieving weight loss without dieting.

The Peterborough Hypnotherapy Clinic, in Priestgate, has been established in Peterborough since 2005, and it is run by Tim Pinning, who holds a General Hypnotherapy Senior Qualification (GHR SQHP). His clinic specialises in the Hypno-Slimming Programme, including the Hypnotic Gastric Band, Stress Management Programme and Smoking Cessation Programme.

The new Hypno-Slimming Programme can help people to lose weight by getting them to think about food and their eating habits in a completely different way. A recent success includes Steve, who has lost over three stone. He says: “my body felt that I was eating more than usual, but in fact I was eating much less. I was eating more frequently throughout the day but wanting more healthy foods. My portion size reduced and I started to leave food on my plate when I was full, something I had never done. I feel that I am back in control of the food that I put into my body.”

The programmes can also help with motivation, anxiety, confidence, self esteem, character building, stress and relaxation. The Clinic offers a free initial consultation, if required.

For more information contact: Tim Pinning on 01733 768839 Peterborough Hypnotherapy Clinic 26, Priestgate Peterborough City Centre. www.curativehypnotherapy.com

Don’t ignore sports injuries With the Olympics nearly upon us, many of us are trying out or going back to sports we haven’t played in a while and it is always possible that injuries may result. Prestons Chartered Physiotherapy and Health Clinic has been dealing with sports injuries for over 40 years. The redeveloped clinic in Alexandra Road in Peterborough has a multidisciplinary team of chartered physiotherapists, podiatrists, sports massage practitioners, acupuncturists and clinical Pilates teachers to treat all aspects of sports injury.

Helen Preston, clinical director, says: “It’s so important to get sports injuries looked at by a chartered physiotherapist to ensure correct diagnosis and management. Many people believe that, for example, ankle sprains just get better by themselves. However, research shows that often those who are not assessed and treated properly may experience cause ongoing pain and dysfunction or create an injury higher up the chain, such as back pain.”

“At Prestons, each patient is given an individualised treatment programme dependent on their injury. Treatment always includes advice and education but can involve manual therapy/ manipulation, soft tissue techniques such as massage, ultrasound and electrotherapy as well as bespoke exercise retraining.”

• For a special Olympic offer of a 20% discount on an initial and first follow up physiotherapy treatment at Prestons (Peterborough clinic only), see page 11.

• Prestons Peterborough clinic is at 29 Alexandra Road, Peterborough, PE1 3DE, www.prestonsphysio.com. Tel: 01733 565911. Appointments are available at Oundle Medical Practice and Tansor Assessment Centre. http://www.facebook.com/ Prestonsphysio

Be clear on cancer Have you ever felt that food gets stuck in your throat when eating, or have you or someone you know been suffering from heartburn or indigestion on and off for three weeks or more?

If you notice any of these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. The chances are that it’s nothing serious but it’s best to get checked. These symptoms could be signs of stomach cancer or oesophagus cancer. The oesophagus is the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.

There are almost 700 new cases of these two cancers in East Anglia every year and they cause over 500 deaths annually in the region. Both cancers affect men and women, but are more common in men. More than nine out of 10 people who get cancer of the stomach or oesophagus are over 55. Early detection makes it much easier to treat.

NENE VALLEY LIVING JULY 2012

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• NVL July ADS.indd 28

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PERSPECTIVES

Home grown Olympians As our region prepares to welcome the Olympic Torch, Dave Phillips looks at famous local Olympic heroes, past and present

F

or months now it seems as if the nation has gone Olympics mad. Never before, it seems, has a sporting event so gripped the nation – and in our area it’s no different.

The Olympic Torch is about to arrive here and will even be taking a boat trip across Rutland Water and jumping aboard the Nene Valley Railway for a steam-hauled trip into Peterborough, which is staging a massive riverside party on The Embankment to mark the special occasion.

Peterborough loves the Olympics – and no wonder.

David Burghley At London 2012 one of our local athletes – gymnast Louis Smith – stands a very real chance of winning a medal. But he won’t be the first, by any means. One of the

most famous was an aristocrat, as well as a future MP for Peterborough. David Cecil, 6th Marquess of Exeter, was born at the magnificent Burghley House, near Stamford. Born in 1905 to one of the most famous families in the land, he was an outstanding athlete and made his Olympics debut under the name David Burghley in Paris in 1924, where he was eliminated in the 110 metres hurdles. But four years later he won Gold in the 400m hurdles at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, followed by Silver in the 4x400m relay at the 1932 Los Angeles Games, where he was also fourth in the 400m hurdles and fifth in the 110m hurdles.

In the British Empire Games in 1930

(forerunner of the modern Commonwealth Games), he won Gold medals in the 120 yards hurdles, the 440 yards hurdles and the 4x440 yards relay. Educated at Eton and Magdalene College, Cambridge, legend has it that Burghley placed a matchbox on the hurdles when he was practicing, aiming to knock the boxes over with his leading foot without disturbing the hurdles.

In 1927, he sprinted around the Great Court at Trinity College in the time it took the college clock to toll 12 o’clock – inspiring the scene in the film Chariots of Fire, in which Harold Abrahams accomplishes the same feat.

In 1931, Burghley was elected as MP for Peterborough. He also served as president of the Amateur Athletic Association for 40 years, president of the International Amateur Athletic Federation for 30 years and as a member of the International Olympic Committee for 48 years.

He was chairman of the organising committee of the 1948 Summer Olympics – the last time they were held in London until this year. He died in 1981.

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PERSPECTIVES 

Past glories Sir Peter Scott (1909-89), the son of Captain Scott of the Antarctic, was educated at Oundle School. He was best known as an artist and conservationist and was founder of the World Wildlife Fund, but he was also a successful sportsman. He represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland at sailing in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, winning a Bronze medal. In his later life he spent many years living in an old lighthouse near the mouth of the River Nene, at Sutton Bridge.

Another famous Oundle School sportsman was Sir Harry Morton Llewellyn(1911-99), who in 1952 won a Gold medal in show jumping at the Helsinki Olympic Games for the British equestrian team, riding his favourite horse, Foxhunter. But one of our best-known local athletes was shot putter Geoff Capes, who with 27 international caps is the most-capped British male athlete of all time. Born in Holbeach, in 1949, throughout the 1970s he was policeman, based in Peterborough.

The seventh of nine children, Capes represented Lincolnshire at basketball, football and cross-country. But he was best known as a shot putter, who won two Commonwealth Games and two European Championships.

In 1972, aged 21, he competed in the Munich Olympics and did not make it past the qualifying round, but he went to the 1976 Montreal Olympics as favourite for the Gold medal. He finished a disappointing sixth overall.

In 1980 he again went into the Olympics – this time in Moscow – as favourite, but this time finished fifth, even though the winner’s putt of 21.35m was short of Capes’ British record of 21.55m, set in Wales earlier that year.

Capes said afterwards that the result left him “numbed with disappointment.” In the 1980s, Capes turned professional and concentrated on the televised strongman events, for which he became a household name. He’d missed out on Olympics glory, but he won the World’s Strongest Man competition in 1983 and 1985.

Recent winners A local athlete who didn’t miss out was Paul Barber, who was born in Peterborough in 1955.

A legendary hockey player, he won Gold with the British squad at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul.

Four years earlier, at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, he had won a Bronze medal with the team. In a career that spanned over 25 Years, Barber won 99 caps for England and 68 for Great Britain. He retired from international hockey in 1988 and now lives in Bath with his wife and three sons.

Britain’s most successful Paralympic swimmer of all time was born in Peterborough.

Chris Holmes won nine swimming gold medals, four silver and one bronze in four Games. Now Director of Paralympic Integration at the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, he returned to the city earlier this year to examine disabled sporting facilities in the city and encourage local athletes. Visiting Peterborough Sailabilty at Ferry Meadows, he said: “I was born in Peterborough, and it is great to come back here. Projects like this give disabled people the chance to come and try out sport. It is not only encouraging people to have a go at the

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Sir Harry Morton Llewellyn Geoff Capes

grass roots, but also the chance for people to get into the national team, and maybe become Paralympians of the future.”

Ferry Meadows also happens to be the place where Olympian Nick Dempsey learned to sail.

Nick, who was raised in Peterborough, finished 16th in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, but took Bronze in Athens 2004 to become the first Briton to win an Olympics windsurfing medal.

Now living in Weymouth, he finished fourth in the 2008 Beijing Games.

We’re backing Louis!

Great Britain has never been noted for worldclass gymnasts. But all that could change at London 2012 thanks to local Gold hopeful, Louis Smith. Born in Peterborough in 1989, Louis was a hyperactive child, according to his mother, Elaine Petch. He never crawled, but was running before he was a year old. He had broken his arm twice before the age of three, thanks to his love of climbing chairs and tables and launching himself into the air.

To keep him out of mischief, Elaine enrolled him for gymnastics at the age of four, with his elder brother Leon. Within two years, the coach at the club told her that her son showed talent and recommended she took them to a club in Huntingdon. Here, Louis thrived under legendary coach Paul Hall. By the time he was

15, he was the European junior champion on pommel horse. And four years after that he won Bronze at the 2008 Games in Beijing.

Previously, as a junior, he had been a twotime European Champion on pommel horse, in 2004 and 2006. He won Gold on pommel horse for England at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia, and in 2007 he came fourth at the European Championships. His success in Beijing meant he was the first Briton to win a medal in the individual gymnastics at the Olympic Games since Walter Tysall – exactly a century earlier, in 1908. He was also only the second black male gymnast to win an Olympics medal.

No wonder Smith returned from China to star treatment. But he hasn’t let the adulation go to his head. Now 23, he lives in Eye and trains harder than ever. “I’m going for gold this year,” he says. “I can’t get anything less and I don’t want silver now. Silver is just a shinier bronze - gold is the only option. To win gold would be unbelievable. I don’t like to think too much about it because that heaps the pressure on, but to know that you have reached a pinnacle, that you are the best in the world at what you are doing - it would just be a dream come true.”

“Regardless if I’ve won gold or whatever, I want to walk away from the competition happy and know that the 19 years of hard work I’ve

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Louis Smith

A song for Peterborough After the Flame arrives in Peterborough on July 3, there will be a free party staged by the city council and Vivacity, Peterborough’s Culture and Leisure Trust. The event, on The Embankment, will be free and unfenced and takes place from 5pm. The show will feature locally programmed content, including a performance of the Song for Peterborough.

The Song for Peterborough will see school children and community groups from across the city come together to perform a specially-written song, entitled ‘There With You’ and will feature an orchestral arrangement building to a climax of voices from across the city. A fitting tribute to an event which looks set to make history.

put in, and all the sacrifices that everyone else made, I want to know that that 50 seconds on pommel horse was worth it.”

Where to see the Torch Relay The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay will visit our area this month. On Monday July 2, it will visit Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough, before veering north to Market Harborough, Leicester, Melton Mowbray and Oakham, arriving Stamford on Tuesday July 3 after a boat trip across Rutland Water. At 5.15pm that day, the Olympic Flame will be carried through Burghley House Estate and Gardens. It will then travel to the Nene Valley Railway’s Wansford station where it will be transported on board ‘The City of Peterborough’ steam locomotive until it reaches Orton Mere station, Peterborough.

From Orton Mere, the Olympic Flame will travel along Oundle Road towards the city centre, turning left on to London Road and passing over Town Bridge.

The Torchbearers will then carry the Flame onto Lower Bridge Street across Bourges Boulevard and into Upper Bridge Street, before turning right through the Cathedral gateway.

The Relay will pass through Deans

Court, into Wheel Yard and right into City Road. The final part of the journey on that evening will see the Flame pass through St John’s Street, into Vineyard Road, turning right on to Bishop’s Road, then into Rivergate and Embankment Road before arriving at the city’s Embankment at approximately 7.20pm.

The Olympic Torch Relay will leave Peterborough on the morning of July 4 at 7am, starting from the Cathedral Precincts. The Flame will then travel on Long Causeway and Broadway, across Burghley Square before turning right into Lincoln Road. It will leave Peterborough along the A47 via Maskew Avenue.

The complete route of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay can be viewed in full at the www.london2012.com/ olympictorchrelay website, which gives street-by-street details and proposed start times for when the Olympic Flame will travel through our area.

Marco Cereste, leader of Peterborough City Council, said: “Months of hard work have gone into planning the route to ensure that as many residents as possible can be involved and that we show off our beautiful city. It’s going to be fantastic to see friends and family carrying the Olympic Torch through their own neighbourhood.”

An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame during its 8,000 mile journey around the UK before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium in east London on July 27 for the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Twenty torchbearers, ranging in age from 12 to 76 will carry the torch as it travels through the city on July 3 and 4.

One of the youngest torchbearers in Peterborough on July 3 will be 13-year-old Jack Hunt School pupil, Sumayya Manji, who said: “I was encouraged by my family to apply because of my volunteer work and I’m really pleased to be chosen.”

Another is 18-year-old Charly Sissons, of Essendine, a former student at Stamford College. She was nominated by her father, Steve, for overcoming an eight-month period of “hysterical blindness” brought on by bullying.

Not only did she do well in her GCSEs exams but also continued to follow her passion for windsurfing – despite being unable to see. “It’s a great honour to be picked for Peterborough,” she said.

After the torch leaves Peterborough on July 4, it will travel to Market Deeping. You can also catch it at Cambridge on July 7-8 and Huntingdon and St Ives (July 8).

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MOTORING

SWEDISH STYLE Sweden’s answer to the Landrover Discovery celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.

David Corfield reckons its time to look back at Volvo’s biggest off-roader

T

he XC90 is the biggest of Volvo’s range of 4x4 vehicles and also one of its top-selling models, with over half a million units built so far at the factory in Sweden.

Over the course of the decade the car has evolved and new for this year are a pair of alloy wheel designs (one in 18- and one in 19-inch), a bumper bar at the front, fully colour-coded front and rear bumpers, sill mouldings and wheel arches. Those ubiquitous LED daytime running lights remain (a classic Volvo safety feature) plus tweaked tail lights, a new three-spoke steering wheel, some white detailing on the dash and leather upholstery for the R-Design top of the range model.

Another addition for 2012 is an application that connects your car to a mobile phone. If you have an iPhone or an Android mobile then - thanks to an extension of Volvo’s ‘On Call’ system - you can find your car on an app-generated map. You can also find out information remotely, such as fuel level, range remaining, average fuel consumption, average speed and even how many miles the car has done. It can also perform a mobile ‘heath’ check which tells you if there’s a problem with your coolant, your oil or your brake fluid.

The 2.4-litre D5 diesel unit produces 200bhp and emits a substantial 219g/km of CO2. Claimed fuel economy is 34mpg on the combined cycle, but I only managed 28mpg according to the car’s trip computer.

The engine could be classed as slightly old-fashioned compared to powerplants from the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes. However, while they may be more sophisticated engines on offer from the German rivals, the costs means the Volvo may still be the best option.

The Audi Q7 3.0-litre TDI Quattro Clean diesel SE, for instance, costs £45,525. That’s £4,750 more than the Volvo. Economy is a claimed 38mpg while road tax for the Audi is just £15 per year less at £260. So, while the technology may not be as modern as Audi’s, the Volvo will cost

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£3,224 less over three years/30,000 miles.

There’s no lack of pulling power though – with 420Nm available there’s enough grunt to get the heavy XC90 to 62mph in 10.3 seconds with a top speed of 127mph. The gearbox is Volvo’s Geartronic system, a particularly smooth six-speed automatic.

Thanks to the car’s four-wheel-drive system there’s a huge amount of grip available, and it is a very easy car to drive. One thing that can prove tiresome is the foot-operated parking brake, which must be released by hand using the handle on the driver’s right hand side. In a world where competitors are moving rapidly towards electric systems once again the big Volvo begins to show its age. It’s a similar story with the sat nav – although the split-screen is a nice touch it does feel somewhat antiquated now, and can be confusing to operate at times too. You’d get used to it, but there will be some frustration to begin with.

As you’d expect, being a Volvo, there’s a raft of safety systems fitted.

The blindspot warning system works very well, and takes the form of an orange light on the A-pillar which comes on when there’s a car in the area behind not visible in the mirrors. Another feature are the adjustable headlights which can be converted to face the other side of the road, negating the requirement for stick-on reflectors which are impractical and quite often ineffective.

The latest XC90 model is available to order now, with prices starting at £35,175 for the D5 AWD Active geartronic model, rising to £43,775 for the Executive version. The D5 R-DESIGN model I drove is priced from £40,775.

CONTACT: Marshall Volvo, Volvo House, Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5AU Tel: 0844 243 4984

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Advertisement Feature

Safeguard your Income in Retirement Our last article referred to annuities and whether these are appropriate or even good value.

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Investment returns have often been lower than required to support the level of withdrawals and the Government has also reduced the maximum allowable withdrawals from broadly 120% of a single life annuity to 100%. The impact of these factors has been keenly felt by many, especially when combined with historically low annuity rates.

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WHAT’S ON

Wednesday 4 July In Conversation with Katharine McMahon 7pm The author of bestselling historical fiction discusses, and reads from her new novel Season of Light.

• Tickets £3 (£2 concessions and reading groups) John Clare Theatre, Peterborough Central Library, Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RX. Elaine.Wilkinson@ vivacity-peterborough.com. 01733 864277

Diary dates Great events for July, selected by Yasmin Bradley

Friday 6 July – Sunday 8 July.

The East of England Show The ultimate country show with livestock, trade and craft stands, a food court, the Championship Dog Show – and new this year: the Festival of the Working Horse. Concert on Saturday evening with X Factor finalists.

• Tickets: Adult from £10; under 5s free. Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE. www.eastofenglandshow.co.uk

JUly 1

SUNDAY

2

MONDAY

3 TUESDAY 4

WEDNESDAY

5 THURSDAY 6

FRIDAY

7 SATURDAY 8 SUNDAY 9

MONDAY

10 TUESDAY

Saturday 7 July Woodnewtonstock - 12.30pm.

A free, family friendly event with a BBQ lunch, traditional stalls and games plus local bands headlining with The Bats, all washed down with real ale.

• Free. Playing Field, Village Hall, Woodwalton, Peterborough, PE8 5EQ. lizholland23@gmail.com

Saturday 7 July - Sunday 8 July T. S. Eliot Festival A major literary celebration of the life and work of the Nobel Prize winning writer in the tranquil setting of Great Gidding.

• £25 each day including Saturday afternoon tea and supper; Sunday lunch and tea. littlegidding.org.uk/ eliotfestival. eliotfestival@littlegidding.org.uk.

Tuesday 10 July Peterborough Race for Life Be part of the biggest fight against cancer: walk, jog or run 5km.

• Entry fee: £14.99; Girls under 16: £10.00. Ferry Meadows Country Park, Nene Park Trust, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU

Friday 13 – Sunday 15 July The John Clare Festival - All weekend Music, poetry and art including the unique Midsummer Cushion Ceremony centred round the poet’s beautifully restored cottage in the pretty village of Helpston.

• John Clare Cottage, 12 Woodgate, Helpston, Cambridgeshire, PE6 7ED. www.johnclare.org.uk. 01480 811608.

11 WEDNESDAY 12 THURSDAY 13 FRIDAY 14 SATURDAY 15 SUNDAY 16 MONDAY 17 TUESDAY 18 WEDNESDAY

Wednesday 18 July Drum Circle - 7.30 – 8.30pm Get into the rhythm with this ancient way of celebrating.

• The Green Backyard, Rams Fair Meadow Allotment Site, London Road, Peterborough, PE2.

Thursday 19 July Echoes of the Past: Look Beneath the Surface Understand more about the English Civil War and Restoration locally by learning to interpret historical artefacts including portraits, military uniforms and buildings.

• Tickets: £6 (£4) Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. www.vivacity-peterborough.com. 01733 864663. museum@vivacity-peterborough.com

Saturday 21 July Made in Peterborough Craft Fair 10am-3pm Come to the beautiful curiosity shop of all things handmade with tea, coffee and homemade cake.

• Free. St John the Baptist’s, Cathedral Square, Peterborough, PE1 1XB. Contact Keely Mills on Facebook or platformpeterborough@yahoo.co.uk.

Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 July Medieval Artistry Join ‘medieval’ artists to discover the bizarre substances used to produce the colours in Longthorpe Tower wall paintings and recreate one yourself.

• Entry: Adult £3.50 (£2.50); Child £2.00.

Longthorpe Tower, Thorpe Road, Longthorpe, Peterborough, PE1 1HA

Saturday 28 July - Saturday 11 August The Great Exhibition Various times Follow in the footsteps of the Great Exhibition of 1851 and the Festival of Britain in 1951, this two- week festival and national celebration brings together everything great about Britain including ‘The Feature Footprint of Britain’, ‘The High Street of The Future’ and ‘The Great Outdoors’, live events and shows.

• Cathedral Square, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1.

19 THURSDAY 20 FRIDAY 21 SATURDAY 22 SUNDAY 23 MONDAY 24 TUESDAY 25 WEDNESDAY 26 THURSDAY 27 FRIDAY 28 SATURDAY 29 SUNDAY 30 MONDAY 31 TUESDAY NENE VALLEY LIVING july 2012

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RIDGEWAY GARAGE DOORS

STEPHENSON SMART & CO CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & BUSINESS ADVISORS

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

Accountancy + a dynamic approach to an established industry

Company formations | Business start-up advice, Cash flows, Projections | Self assessment tax returns | Accounts and tax planning | Payroll services | Bookkeeping services | Corporate accounts & audit | Specialist services

Call for a FREE Consultation

Peterborough 01733 343275

w w w. s t e p h e n s o n s m a r t . c o m

Tel: 01733 772934

Email: ridgewaygaragedoors@ fsmail.net

We pride ourselves on great customer service

Stephenson House, 15 Church Walk, Peterborough PE1 2TP

WE HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Nene Valley ad.indd 1

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

15/10/10 11:17:55

Your local Oundle branch is at:

4 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 274273 We are proud to be Independent Financial Advisers and our allegiance is to our clients.

Whilst our primary focus is to provide independent to private individuals and smaller businesses, we all aspects of pensions, investments, insurance Why not call us now for a complimentary initial

wealth creation and management services are authorised and qualified to advise on and mortgages including equity release. meeting to see how we may help you?

What you will receive: • Personal, professional and courteous service • Advice upon which you may rely • Reassurance, as we take responsibility for our advice

LOCAL, INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST

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DIRECTORY

GARDEN DESIGNS

ACCOUNTANTS

Teamwork and success – can we help?

For all your Garden ideas

Do come and talk to us...

www.sdgardendesigns.co.uk

We work closely with individuals and businesses alike, to provide not only a wide range of accountancy and taxation services specific to their requirements but also financial and business advice geared to them achieving their objectives.

“affordable garden designs”

5-6 Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ Tel: +44 (0) 1780 761920 Email: service@hunterstevens.co.uk

HEALTH

CAR VALETING

Elizabeth Brock SNHS Dip (Aromatherapy) SNHS Dip (Reflexology)

LiLy HoListics 4 Old North Road, Wansford, Peterborough Cambridgeshire, PE8 6LB teL 01780 789919 www.LiLyHoListics.net

HEALTH

HYPNO-SLIMMING

COUNSELLING

Amazing new easy way to lose weight

Feel Better Today

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

Human Givens therapy provides fast and effective help to: Lift depression Reduce anxiety Prevent panic attacks Overcome fears & phobias Cope with stress Enhance self-esteem

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

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

Free initial consultation www.curativehypnotherapy.com

For information or appointment contact

Francesca Farino 07746 835 153

francesca@hgee.org.uk

FRUIT PICKING

HILL FARM, CHESTERTON, PETERBOROUGH PE7 3UA

Distributors

required

(on Oundle road, 200 yards west of Alwalton A1 flyover)

open june - oct

farm shop and pick your own Strawberries. Raspberries. Gooseberries. Plums.

Black & Redcurrants. Blackberries. Tayberries.

Seasonable vegetables. Locally produced beef & lamb.

refreshments available.

Facilities for Disabled Visitors. Picnic Area.

Children's Play Area. Caravan Club C.L. Site Tue-Fri 9am - 6pm Sat/Sun 9am - 5pm closed Mondays except bank holidays Please ring for up to date crop information or to order ready picked produce

teL & faX 01733 233270

www.pick-your-own.org.uk/hill_farm.htm

to deliver Nene Valley Living in the following areas:

• Orton Wistow • Orton Northgate • Orton Southgate • Werrington • Oundle • Warmington • Polebrook Please email: rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk

with your name, address and a contact number, plus the area you would like to distribute.

Applicants must be13 years old or over

PRESTONS CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPY AND HEALTH CLINIC OLYMPIC SPORTS INJURY OFFER: 20% DISCOUNT FOR INITIAL PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT AND FIRST FOLLOW UP SESSION (PETERBOROUGH CLINIC ONLY)

AVAILABLE UNTIL THE OLYMPIC FLAME EXTINGUISHES ON 12 AUGUST 2012 To claim your Olympic discount, please call 01733 565911 and book your appointment today, quoting OLYMPICNENE1.

Find us on the web at www.prestonsphysio.com or like us on facebook www.facebook.com/Prestonsphysio

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

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

OPTOMETRIST GERRY - Spends 40 minutes examining your eyes.

He caters the eye test to address your needs.

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

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

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

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

INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS

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

24 WESTGATE ARCADE, QUEENSGATE CENTRE,PETERBOROUGH PE1 1PY

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